PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TULLAHOMA TN Vol. 67, No. 14 Arnold AFB, Tenn. PERMIT NO. 29 July 20, 2020 AEDC, NAVAIR establish Remote Data Room

By Deidre Moon AEDC Public Affairs

Sitting in front of a computer screen in the Propulsion Systems Evaluation Facility (PSEF) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, also known as PAX, some 700 miles away, PSEF test engineer Leo Rubio speaks to analysts and monitors test data as if he was ac- tually in the control room at Arnold Air Force Base. Master Sgt. Lashonda Morehead, left, flight chief of medical operations at Arnold Air Force Base, briefs Gen. Using the facility known as the Re- Arnold W. Bunch Jr., right, commander, Air Force Materiel Command, and Chief Master Sgt. Stanley Cadell, mote Data Room, or RDR, the Arnold command chief, Air Force Materiel Command, about the COVID-19 response at Arnold AFB, headquarters of Engineering Development Complex and Arnold Engineering Development Complex (AEDC), July 8. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) PSEF engineers, who have been collabo- rating for close to a year, witnessed their efforts come to fruition during a test of the Pratt & Whitney F135 engine in the AFMC leadership visits SL-3 test cell at Arnold in January. According to Seth Beaman, NAVAIR aeropropulsion test analyst at Arnold, the development of the room was spear- headed by John Kelly, branch head for Arnold AFB, 704th TG Test Operations and Facilities Engineer- ing at PAX River. “Because the Navy and Air Force have a combined interest in the F-35 program, John Kelly brought the idea to AEDC as a way for his team at PAX River to remotely support test,” Beaman said. “The Remote Data Room serves as an extension of AEDC and provides a secure room for supporting various test programs.” Before the F135 engine test, Kelly had some reservations on how the setup in Maryland, comprised of four monitors and two keyboards, would work. “One thing we worried about was the Scott Meredith, left, technical advisor for AEDC Flight Sys- Col. Ernest Lincoln Bonner, chief of the AEDC Test Division, offers his thoughts to Bunch during a discussion on diver- latency when working in real time; will tems Branch, and Cadell walk past a rake installed in a test there be dropouts or will we see a num- section of the 16-foot supersonic wind tunnel, which is used sity and inclusion held by Bunch with AEDC senior leader- ber of data points from a minute ago or a to characterize the flow in the tunnel, during a tour July 8 at ship July 8 at Arnold Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo Arnold Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Jill Pickett) by Jill Pickett) second ago,” Kelly said. (This image has been altered by obscuring a badge for se- However, trial runs proved success- curity purposes.) ful, with new data points being received within milliseconds. Kelly said he would like to see the room eventually set up with four work stations and two big screen TVs so that they can see the engine running in the test cell. Rubio mentioned that another added benefit of the Remote Data Room is that it will cut costs for both NAVAIR and AEDC because less travel will be needed between the two locations. “It will reduce the cost for NAVAIR support of a test at AEDC (Arnold Air Bunch receives a briefing from 2nd Lt. Chase Bilyou, White Force Base) since an individual is not Capt. Anthony Alt, left, 704th Test Support Squadron direc- Sands Missile Range 586th Flight Test Squadron Detachment tor of operations, briefs Bunch June 29 at the 704th Test 1 weapon systems test manager, June 29 at the 704th Test required to physically be on TDY (tem- Group on Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. (U.S. Air Group on Holloman Air Force Base, New Mexico. (U.S. Air porary duty) for the duration of a test Force photo by Senior Airman Collette Brooks) Force photo by Senior Airman Collette Brooks) program,” he said. “This also provides analyst coverage for test programs that allow the AEDC analysts to be spread out across more programs since PAX en- AEDC Innovation Grant research generates tactical gineers will be able to serve remotely as an analyst during a test.” solution for test facility security In preparation to assist with data By Deidre Moon analysis during engine tests, Rubio com- AEDC Public Affairs pleted AEDC training for basic data analysis. Engineers at Arnold Air Force “NAVAIR personnel at Arnold have Base have researched the use of a already completed the training, but I am Cross-Domain Solution, or CDS, the first employee specifically from PAX interface to allow plant operations to have completed the training with the systems outside of the plant control Remote Data Room function in mind,” he room to remain unclassified during said. classified test programs. Rubio explained he had previously put Scott Howard and Greg Hal- his new training to use during another en- liburton, Department of Defense gine test at Arnold. team members with the Arnold En- “The goal was to work with my coun- gineering Development Complex, terpart at AEDC, Seth Beaman, to develop Test Information Systems Section at a training curriculum that would work to Arnold, along with members of the get NAVAIR personnel certified as basic- Controls Design team with the Test Chris Carr, an AEDC Instrumentation, Data and Controls engineer, demon- level analysts. The original plan was that Operations and Sustainment con- strates how the Cross-Domain Solution, or CDS, works Feb. 12 at Arnold I would go down to observe and possibly tractor, National Aerospace Solu- Air Force Base. The CDS interface was researched as a solution to allow complete some of the training. I ended up tions, worked to determine whether plant operations systems outside of the plant control room to remain un- plant control parameters could be classified during classified test programs.(U.S. Air Force photo by Deidre See DATA ROOM, page 3 Moon) (This image has been altered by obscuring items for security pur- See SECURITY, page 3 poses.)

Safety Office enables Team Bluegrass and buds: Arnold Covid-19 AEDC to meet mission AFB team members gather and you for weekly jams …Page 2 …Page 4 …Page 6 2 • July 20, 2020

Arnold Safety Office enables Team AEDC to meet mission

Air Force By Harry Clark general public and those strange objects that you requested test conditions at tions that best simulate the Base Chief, AEDC Safety flying the missions to and discover on the Arnold res- levels of risk that may be actual environment that from our airfield to ensure ervation, call the Safety Of- accepted at the appropri- the system will experi- “Hi, I’m from Safety we are performing all the fice. ate level of leadership. It ence. This includes under- and I’m here to help!” necessary Flight Safety Occupational Safety is is also the documentation standing how the required OK, what did you think functions for which a flying what everyone thinks of we use to understand how test conditions may stress when you read that state- Wing Air Force Base would when they think of “safety.” changes, both enhanced or exceed the capacity of ment? What most people be responsible. These are the folks who get capability resulting from the facility. Documenta- have thought in the past is Weapons Safety at no love because they are Investment and Moderniza- tion of these assessments something along the lines AEDC involves support- the ones constantly remind- tion projects and degraded is captured in Test Hazard of, “Oh brother…” Today’s Col. Jeffrey Geraghty ing the skilled craftsmen ing you that, “you could capability due to equipment Analyses, which require Commander AEDC Safety Office wants and engineers at G-Range get hurt if you …” The fact failures or deferred mainte- the same level of rigor as you to file all that away and where they use gunpow- is, these “rules” have been nance, affect our ability to those associated with the Jason Austin take a fresh look at an or- der and ignition devices developed over years of meet test requirements. The facility baselines. All of this Chief, ganization that exists to en- to launch projectiles/test analyzing data on work- fundamental process in the requires that the teams put- Public Affairs able you and your team to articles from the “guns” at place injuries. When Safety practice of System Safety ting together the test plans deliver your best products that facility, and the teams reminds you that the trench is the assessment of risk have a strong and in-depth in service to our mission that occasionally use start you are working in needs to inherent in operating and understanding of their test supporting the National Richard Tighe cartridges for small turbine be shored up (or the walls maintaining the systems. techniques and the skill to General Manager, Defense Strategy (NDS). engines. It also involves stepped back), when they Baseline Hazard Analyses match a customer’s require- National Aerospace Safety in the Air Force support to the teams that ask you to hold the hand- document the potential haz- ments to those techniques. Solutions consists of three primary execute the solid rocket rail while using the stairs, ards, including what might With that basis in place, the High Mach Staff: functions: Flight Safety, motor testing that is ac- when they scrutinize your cause that hazard to happen Test Safety documentation Weapons Safety and Occu- complished in the J-6 test Confined Space Hazard and what effect that hazard allows the appropriate lev- Kathy Jacobsen, pational Safety. At AEDC, NAS Executive Editor facility and inspections of Analysis and ask pointed might have on both people els of leadership to evaluate we have these three core all the facilities that store questions about your en- and equipment. This analy- and accept, or not, the risks Jill Pickett disciplines, plus some su- and process these types of try procedures, they are sis then evaluates the risk associated with accom- NAS Editor perstar engineers perform- systems. There are others, speaking from the collec- inherent in operating the plishing the requested tests. High Mach is published by ing System Safety and Test but of particular note is the tive experience of hundreds facility, some of which may The Safety office Lakeway Publishers, Inc. a pri- Safety functions. approval that the 704 TG of thousands of workplace require mitigation to lower doesn’t do all these things, vate firm in no way connected “Flight Safety? The has to modify the casings accidents. It may seem the risk to an acceptable although we must be ex- with the U.S. Air Force, Arnold only planes we have are of solid rocket motors to that all Safety wants to do level. If that sounds com- pert at the fundamentals of Air Force Base, Arnold Engi- neering Development Complex those on display by the tailor them for use as boost- is slow you down, impede plicated, it is. However, each discipline. What the (AEDC) or National Aerospace gates. What do you mean, ers for the hypersonic sled your progress and hinder you may rest assured that Safety office does is advise Solutions (NAS), under exclu- Flight Safety?” track test, which is operated your ability to get that task AEDC has a strong history the practitioners of these sive written contract with NAS Actually, AEDC has by the 846th Test Squad- accomplished, but what of System Safety and this disciplines and ensure that at Arnold AFB, Tenn., 37389. Everything advertised in a Flight Test mission at ron. Weapons Safety per- they really want to do is to office works hard every day those doing the work have this publication will be made the 704th Test Group, sonnel there are intimately ensure that you CAN ac- to ensure that we continue thoroughly and completely available for purchase, use where the 586th Flight involved in assuring that complish that task and, at to uphold those standards evaluated the subject mat- or patronage without regard Test Squadron supports those actions are carried the end of the day, you go so that AEDC is available ter. Whether it’s an engi- to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital sta- the NDS with testing ac- out within the guidelines home to your family and to support the NDS now neer developing a Hazard tus, physical handicap, political complished in two C-12 of the approved process. your friends without having and for years to come. Analysis for a complicated affiliation or any other non- turboprop aircraft and sev- Lastly, everyone should had the really bad experi- Test Safety is the bread test in a multi-million dollar merit factor of the purchaser, eral T-38 jets. To fulfill that know that the lands beyond ence of being injured while and butter of the AEDC en- facility or an analyst work- user or patron. The High Mach office is safety function, we have a the industrial area at Arnold making your contribution terprise. A customer comes ing in an office to support located at 100 Kindel Drive, Chief of Flight Safety who AFB may have unexploded to the important work we to us with a plan to acquire the AEDC mission, every Suite A236, Arnold AFB, Tenn. is qualified to fly, nearly, ordnance (UXO) left over accomplish every day at some data that will support member of the AEDC team 37389-1236. Editorial content every airframe known to from the time when Camp AEDC. the development or matura- is making risk assessments is edited and prepared by NAS. man. But there’s more to Deadline for copy is Wednes- Forrest was an active range. System Safety is a disci- tion of their system. AEDC every day. The Safety office day at close of business one Flight Safety at AEDC than While these areas have pline that is the foundation engineers determine how a just happens to be the pro- week before publication. just the testing done at Hol- been extensively cleared of of our ability to execute our given test capability may fessionals that can help you This commercial enterprise loman AFB. You may have UXO, the possibility exists test and evaluation mission be brought to bear to pro- make these assessments newspaper is an allowable heard that the Arnold AFB NAS contractor publication that a recreational user may using our ground test infra- duce the conditions that and provide you the tools for personnel at Arnold AFB. airfield is being reactivated. find an artifact from that structure. It is a systematic will yield that data. This in- you need to make your The content of High Mach While we will not have an time. The AEDC Weapons way to define the perfor- volves understanding how contribution to the National does not necessarily reflect the active flying mission head- Safety office is your place mance envelope within the operating envelope of Defense Strategy. views of the Air Force, Arnold quartered at Arnold, we to report any such object. which we can be assured a particular facility may be Yes, we are from Safety

AFB, AEDC or NAS. The ap- will be responsible to the pearance of advertising in this Please do not handle any of meeting our customers’ used to develop test condi- and we are here to help! publication does not constitute endorsement of the products or services advertised by the Department of Defense, the AFMC launches Spark Tank competition Department of the Air Force, Arnold AFB, AEDC, NAS or Lakeway Publishers, Inc. By Marisa fer, AFMC Deputy Com- For general information Alia-Novobilski mander. “Our AFMC Air- about High Mach, call (931) Air Force Materiel men are among the most 454-5655 or visit www. arnold.af.mil. Command innovative in the Air Force, and this is an opportunity Use High Mach to mar- ket your products and WRIGHT-PATTER- for them to see their game- services. Contact Joe at SON AIR FORCE BASE, changing ideas come to life 931-455-4545 or jmartin@ Ohio – Air Force Materiel and make impacts on our tullahomanews.com Command Airmen are in- future.” vited to submit innova- The AFMC Spark Tank tive, game-changing ideas runs July 1 through Aug. to compete in the AFMC 3 and is open to all uni- Spark Tank competition. formed and civilian AFMC The submitters of the Airmen. Submitted ideas top five, most innovative, should have the potential game-changing ideas will to make significant -im pitch their ideas to a panel pacts on Air Force mis- Core Values of judges during the AFMC sions within a six-month to • Integrity first Senior Leader Confer- two-year time frame. • Service before self ence this September. This Airmen and civilians • Excellence in all panel will then select the can submit their ideas on Air Force Materiel Command Airmen are invited to submit innovative, game- we do top two ideas as the major the U.S. Air Force Ideation changing ideas to compete in the AFMC Spark Tank competition. The top two command nominees for the Platform at https://usaf. ideas from across the command will compete as the major command nomi- 2021 Air Force-wide com- ideascalegov.com/ through nees for the 2021 Air Force-wide competition. (Air Force graphic by Michele Ruff) petition. Aug. 3. All submissions “We are searching for will be evaluated, and the men to share their innova- mander. “Innovation is in Strategy. This will be a Vision ideas with the highest top five ideas will advance tive ideas with the chance our command’s DNA, and tough competition, and probability of delivering to compete during the Se- to impact the future of it is vital to ensuring our I look forward to seeing “NAS delivers the best revolutionary impact to nior Leader Conference. our service and our na- continued ability to be the AFMC innovation shine aerospace testing AFMC and the Air Force,” “This is an exciting tion,” said Gen. Arnold W. AFMC We Need to exe- through in the submis- capabilities today and in the future.” said Maj. Gen. Carl Schae- opportunity for our Air- Bunch, Jr., AFMC Com- cute the National Defense sions. Best of luck to all.” Values • Ethics. We are uncompromising in our Action Line integrity, honesty, and fairness. Smoking Policy • Safety & Health. We are relentless in Team AEDC, keeping people safe from harm, and 1. The following revised Arnold AFB smoking policy is effective immediately and applies to all individuals on I believe in free and open communications we provide a safe and healthy work Arnold AFB. with our Team AEDC employees, and that’s why environment. we have the Action Line available. People can • Security. We are disciplined and vigilant 2. Traditional Tobacco products (e.g. cigars and cigarettes): in protecting sensitive AEDC information a. Smoking is permitted solely in Designated Tobacco Areas (DTAs) identified by designated signage. If no use the Action Line to clear up rumors, ask ques- and ensuring system integrity to support signage exists, smoking is not permitted in that area. It is the responsibility of all smokers to keep DTAs tions, suggest ideas on improvements, enter national security and our customers. clean of cigarette butts. complaints or get other issues off their chests. • Excellence. We thrive on challenge, b. Tobacco use on the Arnold AFB Golf Course is permitted, but discouraged based on the health hazards The Action Line has been expanded to in- accomplishment, and mission success. • Quality. We are passionate about doing of tobacco use and secondhand smoke. No smoking is permitted within 50 feet of golf course buildings clude an option for your ideas, comments, or our work right the first time. except in the approved DTA. suggestions on the AcqDemo personnel sys- • People. We have a mission-focused, c. Smoking in government-owned/leased vehicles is strictly prohibited. Personnel are allowed to smoke in their tem. Simply call the normal x6000 commander’s inclusive workforce who have a diverse personal vehicles at any time; however, at no time will personnel discard cigarette butts outside their vehicle. action line. You will then be prompted to select skill set, are committed to success, option 1 for the Commander’s Action Line or Op- demonstrate innovation and have a can d. For government employees, the fact that a person smokes has no bearing on the number of breaks they do attitude. may take. Breaks should be taken in accordance with the current supervisory and personnel policies that tion 2 for the AcqDemo line. They can access the • Culture. Our team is proud of our diver- afford all employees the same break opportunities consistent with good work practices and accomplish- Action Line via the AEDC intranet home page sity, inclusiveness, and collaborative work ment of the mission. and by calling 931-454-6000. environment. We are proud of what we do Although the Action Line is always available, and how we do it. 3. Smokeless Tobacco products (e.g. snuff and dip): • Relationships. We build positive, long- Smokeless tobacco products are not to be restricted to DTAs. Smokeless tobacco use will be permitted in all the best and fastest way to get things resolved term business relationships through trust, workplace areas (inside and out) subject to reasonable safety and sanitary conditions. Specifically, containers is by using your chain of command or by con- respect, and collaboration. of tobacco waste product, including sealed containers, must not be left unattended or disposed of in trash tacting the organization directly involved. I en- • Innovation. We overcome challenges courage everyone to go that route first, then if through creativity, perseverance, technol- receptacles. Users of smokeless tobacco must flush tobacco waste down the toilet. ogy, and flexibility. We actively seek to 4. Electronic Cigarettes (also known as “e-cigs”): the situation isn’t made right, give us a chance. continually improve. Pursuant to Air Force Instruction (AFI) 40-102, Tobacco Free Living, e-cigs are considered to be equivalent to • Sustainability. We plan and act for the tobacco products; however, e-cigs are not restricted to DTAs and are allowed to be used outdoors at a minimum Col. Jeffrey Geraghty long term benefit of our communities and distance of 25 feet from building entry/egress points. (This policy is dated July 27, 2016) AEDC Commander our environment. July 20, 2020 • 3

DATA ROOM from page 1 Safety Office enables Team AEDC to meet mission integrating myself well fication process.” PAX we don’t possess with the test team and Having spent time at that capability since it taking on more of the Arnold AFB from March essentially requires a training and serving as a to June 2019, Rubio left city block’s worth of test analyst during all of impressed by the AEDC space to house the facil- their air-on periods for team members and the ity components required this test program.” facilities. to simulate thousands Rubio mentioned his “One unique aspect of feet of altitude at a other colleagues at PAX to the testing at AEDC variety of Mach num- River will be able to is that they perform bers.” complete the basic-level altitude testing as op- Beaman added that analyst training through posed to Sea Level the RDR has offered the the RDR. Static testing,” he said. ability to view side-by- “The folks with “This allows test teams side the data received AEDC have placed all of and customers to sub- from both ground and the trainings onto a net- ject their engines to rep- flight tests of the same work drive that is acces- resentative conditions engines. sible through the RDR,” that they would see in “Here at Arnold, we he said. “This means that an installed condition, work on the ground test A Pratt & Whitney F135 engine for the F-35 Lighting II Joint Strike Fighter more PAX personnel can excluding inlet/exhaust data and at PAX River undergoes testing in the AEDC Sea Level 3 engine test cell. Using a work sta- complete the training variations depending they have the flight test tion, known as the Remote Data Room, in the Propulsion Systems Evaluation and potentially become on the aircraft installa- data, and now it is pos- Facility (PSEF) at Naval Air Station Patuxent River, Maryland, the PSEF test basic-level analysts tion, which is a remark- sible to compare the two team is able to successfully monitor live engine testing, such as this, for the through the same certi- able capability. Here at during live tests,” he said. F135 occurring at Arnold Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo)

SECURITY from page 1 normalized with the ad- are required to become dition of a CDS. classified whenever a According to How- test program is classi- ard, an Instrumentation, fied. Therefore, having Data and Controls, or classified plant systems ID&C, engineer, this re- has an adverse effect on search was done as part turnaround time when of an AEDC Innovation there are multiple active Grant, and while the test projects due to the CDS interface is not cur- declassification proce- rently in place, it is one dures required to change of several options being between classification reviewed. levels. “The grant helped “Implementing this determine that the use innovative solution of CDS would be a fea- would prevent plant con- sible option,” he said. trol systems from requir- “It would reduce main- ing a classification high- tenance costs resulting er than CUI (controlled from security require- unclassified informa- ments and reduce con- tion),” said Chris Carr, current testing conflicts. AEDC ID&C engineer. It would also increase “We would still be able test throughput.” to meet the security con- With the current pro- straints without hinder- cedures in place for ing Plant operations.” changing classification Carr also explained levels, starting a new what exactly a CDS is test is not always a quick and how it works. process. “A CDS is a capabil- An AEDC Instrumentation, Data and Controls engineer, sets up the Cross-Domain Solution hardware “Routine inspections ity that allows interop- prior to connecting it to a desktop computer Feb. 12 at Arnold Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo by and maintenance of pro- eration of systems of dif- Deidre Moon) (This image has been altered by obscuring items for security purposes.) tective distribution sys- fering classifications,” tems, or PDS, in plant he said. “This takes the and a means of control- of security requirements website, maker of the group’s findings, Roger create a significant cost form of a device that ling network flows with- and the requisite harden- Tactical Cross-Domain Vaughn, AEDC ID&C burden to both AEDC acts as a ‘guard’ that se- out breaking the trans- ing and inspection of as- Solution, or TACDS. functional manager, said and test customers,” lectively blocks, allows port protocols in use. sociated AEDC commu- The General Dynamics he thinks that the CDS Howard said. “With the or redacts data and pre- “CDS systems already nications infrastructure.” TACDS was used as part interface could also be anticipated advanced vents unauthorized net- exist as National Secu- The CDS capabil- of this AEDC Innovation beneficial to AEDC test programs coming in the work access.” rity Agency-approved ity is already in use by Grant project. facilities. future, the current cost Carr noted that three and certified solutions the warfighter, enabling Sloan Campbell, a “CDS would allow will easily increase by mechanisms are required that have demonstrated information sharing new AEDC ID&C en- testing to occur in a more hundreds of thousands, to implement such a so- proven performance across different secu- gineer, was involved in efficient manner and if not more.” lution: a means of de- and effectiveness in ac- rity domains in tacti- setting up the CDS test- would be an effective Plant control sys- termining security level tual DOD use,” he said. cal vehicles, aircraft bed and capturing data to way of continuing our tems that are directly of content, a means of “Such a solution shows and dismounted soldier be analyzed and reported current procedures with- associated with setting filtering that content per great promise in assist- systems, according to back to the government out derailing what we’re test facility conditions the security relationships ing with the demands the General Dynamics customer. Based on the already doing,” he said. Rapidly deployed digital tool advances energy in wargaming effort

By Corrie Poland With a compressed “I like to think of modification, and reuse and contested theaters. the team plans to further Air Force Operational timeline, engineers from SWIFT as ‘PowerPoint’ and helped inform senior The office he represents, enhance its functionality. Energy the Cost Assessment and for wargaming,” said leaders of strategic and Air Force Operational En- Currently, JFEW-SWIFT Program Evaluation, or Harvey Gilbert, CAPE’s tactical requirements in ergy, supported the effort is available to users as a WASHINGTON CAPE, office within the IMAG task monitor and future forces. Additionally, with funding and subject desktop application, but (AFNS) – On an eight-hour OSD successfully built and solutions architect. “It’s the tool is designed to in- matter expertise for de- the team is working on flight to Hawaii, software deployed the application accessible and customiz- tegrate with other Defense velopment of the software developing a web-based engineers raced to program while drastically shorten- able by analysts; it only Department wargaming augmentation. application to be distrib- the final updates to a mod- ing the execution time- needs software develop- and simulation software, “The tool helped us uted across multiple loca- eling and simulation tool line from two years, to 12 ers when new features or such as the Synthetic The- identify a few critical en- tions for greater use and that would host the Joint weeks. complex adjudicators need ater Operations Model, or ergy challenges for the Air visibility. Completion of Forces Energy Wargame, Using government off- to be added to the plat- STORM, which assists in Force and joint operations, the update is expected by or JFEW, the first of its the-shelf software already form.” post-game evaluation. and provided decision- the end of 2020. kind to focus primarily on created as part of SWIFT, “If it weren’t for “Analytic wargames makers with data-driven “Wargaming itself, energy and fuel logistics. the engineers augmented SWIFT, we would still be benefit from a structured insight on how we can is a tool within a much Known as JFEW-Stan- the tool for JFEW’s unique standing around a printed rule-set with clear adju- improve operational plans larger analytic toolkit that dard Wargame Integration requirements, allowing game board and keeping dication logic during ex- for increased readiness,” should operate in tandem Facilitation Toolkit, or players to realistically as- track of player moves with ecution and subsequent Wright said. Using the data with other analysis meth- SWIFT, the tool provided sess the operational impact pen and paper,” said Wil- analysis,” said Karl Selke, collected in JFEW-SWIFT ods such as simulation, a digital interface to play, of fuel logistics including liam Ellerbe, the project’s Ph.D., CAPE’s computa- during the wargame, the real-world exercises, and present, and analyze the fuels inventories at operat- lead software architect. “It tional social scientist and team conducted an in- data-driven quantitative wargame, and allowed ing locations, transport and was a very time-consum- wargaming expert. “The depth analysis of the chal- techniques,” Selke said. players to quickly react to storage issues, consump- ing process and one move result of a sound, well- lenges and lessons learned, “SWIFT is the key plat- the operational impact of tion rates, and infrastructure would take more than four constructed rule-set is an culminating in a classified form to bring (wargam- fuel logistics in real-time. damage. hours. Now, we can quick- appropriately realistic and after-action report and ing) to life for commu- The 40-person event, spon- The tool enabled the ly execute the game and abstract model of war.” high-level briefings to the nity use and it is driving sored by the Office of the team to create custom sce- focus on analysis versus According to JFEW INDOPACOM leadership operational and tactical Secretary of Defense and narios (maps, operating lo- recording moves,” he con- team lead and wargaming and the Office of the As- wargame design.” hosted by the U.S. Indo- cations, and units) and rules tinued. expert Dominick Wright, sistant Secretary of De- As the team continues Pacific Command, took (movement, logistics) that Throughout each Ph.D., JFEW-SWIFT was fense for Sustainment. to update and improve the place over four days in Au- ensured the game was ef- game, the tool recorded essential in increasing the With a successful software, they plan to use gust 2019 at Camp Smith fective and flexible enough and tracked players’ ac- visibility of energy risks in demonstration of the it for future joint-service in Honolulu. to program during play. tions for in-depth analysis, multi-domain operations software accomplished, wargames and exercises. 4 • July 20, 2020 Bluegrass and buds: Arnold AFB team members gather for weekly jams By Bradley Hicks AEDC Public Affairs

If one passes by the Arnold Air Force Base Chapel at the right time on Fridays, they’ll likely hear the picking and singing of old-timey fiddle tunes. The music emanating from the Chapel comes compliments of 840 Junc- tion, a band comprised of Arnold personnel. On the mandolin is David Wilhite. Providing backing on the guitar is John Laviolette. Picking on the banjo is Brian Brown. Taking up the dobro is Ron Lutz. Keeping the rhythm on the bass is Kraig Smith. 840 Junction primarily performs traditional blue- grass, but the band also dabbles in “newgrass,” SteelDrivers-style music. They also perform Celtic and country tunes and oc- casionally cover classic rock n’ roll songs in a blue- On Dec. 23, 2019, the members of 840 Junction, a band comprised of Arnold Air Force Base personnel, gather in the Arnold AFB grass style. Chapel for one of their weekly jam sessions. Pictured from left are Ron Lutz, David Wilhite, Kraig Smith, Brian Brown and John The group formed Laviolette. (U.S. Air Force photo by Bradley Hicks) (This image was altered by obscuring badges for security purposes.) several years ago and has Military Appreciation Day began getting together to Lutz one day after a Com- istration and Engineering With Brown and Smith since played at a number event at Arnold AFB, and jam. mander’s Call and learned Building. He was walk- onboard, 840 Junction was of festivals and gatherings First Friday Jam Night at “I heard that David he played the dobro, which ing by the Chapel one day formed. The band took its throughout the area. The the Arnold Lakeside Cen- played the mandolin, I think is the sweetest- when something caught name due to the proximity band’s gigs include per- ter. which I thought was pretty sounding instrument ever. his ear. of its members’ residences formances at the Spring “Mainly, we just like cool,’” Laviolette said. It’s my favorite,” Lavio- “I was either walking to to Interstate 840, a por- Hill Music & BBQ Fest, to get together and jam “He likes to play a lot of lette said. or from my class and I was tion of which runs through the Music at the Mansion together, and we have a fiddle tune stuff, and I’d Lutz joined Wilhite and like, ‘Is somebody playing Murfreesboro. event at the Rippavilla really good time doing it,” just back him up on the Laviolette, and the three music in there?’” Brown The five bandmates Plantation in Spring Hill, Wilhite said. “And, hey, if guitar while he’d play the began meeting at the Test said. “So I just opened the gather nearly every Friday the Celtic Cup in Tullaho- there’s some people who lead music for the fiddle Operations Building for door up and saw them.” in the Arnold AFB Chapel ma, the Hands-On Science actually like listening to tune.” jam sessions. They soon Before long, Brown to jam. They will also as- Center, Pickin’ in the Park us, all the better.” It wouldn’t be long be- began performing at local was bringing in his banjo semble there as needed to in Spring Hill, the Pump- It was 2013 when Wil- fore the duo became a trio. events. to play along with those in work out any kinks before kinfest in Franklin, the hite and Laviolette first “I was talking to Ron “We were getting to- the Chapel. an upcoming gig. gether to jam, just enjoy Smith had begun play- “We’re not real seri- the music, and it grew ing with Wilhite, Lavio- ous,” Laviolette said. from there,” Lutz said. lette and Lutz prior to “Sometimes we’ll play The three would soon Brown joining the group. a song and we’re like, move their jams from the He first backed up the ‘That’s a crash and burn Test Operations Build- three original members of kind of thing,’ and other ing to the Chapel, gather- the band while they per- times we’re like, ‘Wow, ing weekly to play. Others formed at a musical gath- that was really good.’” around base caught wind ering organized by a previ- The members of 840 of the jam sessions and ous Arnold employee. Junction agree their week- would often drop by to “They said, ‘You want ly jams provide plenty of pick with Wilhite, Lavio- to play the next gig?’ I humor and comradery and, lette and Lutz. said, ‘OK,’” Smith said. of course, the opportunity “We’ve had differ- “I’ve been at every one to create music with bud- ent people come in just to since.” dies. kind of jam, not really as a Laviolette said the “We all like the mu- band, just to play bluegrass additions of Smith and sic and we’re all friends,” music because that’s what Brown brought a new dy- Smith said. we love,” Laviolette said. namic to the group. This sentiment appears Brown was among “When we were just to fall right in line with those who took notice of playing as three instru- the band’s expression – the jam sessions. He was ments, it was hollow,” “Sometimes bluegrass is taking courses in the train- he said. “When you start more fun to play than it is ing center previously lo- adding that bass in there, to listen to.” cated down the hall from it sounds better. Then add “It’s definitely more the Chapel on the first the banjo, and it just brings fun than a human should floor of the Arnold Admin- it all together.” have,” Laviolette said. July 20, 2020 • 5 Edwards AFB prepares for 3D-Video Review Ground Station

By James C. • Integration of other Cunningham display types; i.e. 412th Test Wing different 2D or active/ passive 3D flat-screen EDWARDS AIR commercial off- FORCE BASE, Calif. – the-shelf displays, Current Test and Evalua- augmented reality and tion at Edwards Air Force virtual-reality, etc. Base is technically lim- ited in easily discovering, • Integration of multiple reproducing, describing, 3D-video formats evaluating, and training emerging 3D-related is- • Event tagging in sues. However, there are video; e.g. ”Here’s multiple 3D-capable sys- where this happened” tems currently fielded • Exportable video clips or potentially coming to the USAF; e.g. KC- • Easy video access: i.e. 46 remote vision system through a networked (RVS), HC-130J Large computer, portable Aircraft Infrared Coun- hard-drive or CD/ termeasures upgrade, DVD, or local storage F-35 3D-capable head- mounted display, etc. • Future system In order to prepare upgrade to allow other Master Sgt. Luis Rodriguez-Asad uses the KC-46A Remote Vision System demonstration Nov. 14, 2013, and improve Edwards playback options at McConnell Air Force Base, Kan. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Colby L. Hardin) AFB testing capabilities “It would be an excel- human perception and describe the few issues de- Attempting to repro- during RVS testing, the for this emerging tech- lent instructional tool and performance lab. The 3D- scribed in the current RVS duce the 3D-related issues test team would have nology, a proposal is cur- also serve as a means to VGS’ display modularity Category 1 Deficiency was also difficult and not been able to review all rently in work through replicate issues noted in- (i.e. plug-and-play differ- Report (CAT 1 DR). Even guaranteed. To reproduce test video and pinpoint AFWERX’s Small Busi- flight for test purposes ent displays) would sup- after the HSI engineer was the issue required sched- the majority of the issues. ness Innovation Research and maintenance trou- port 2D and 3D display able to see a few of the uling another flight to in- Additionally, other issues (SBIR) office to bring a bleshooting,” said Staff and video review across 3D-related issues in-flight vestigate a specific flight may have been found 3D Video-review Ground Sergeant Andrew Miller, multiple display types. during testing, all of the condition that may not that are not described in Station (3D-VGS) to Ed- test boom operator, 418th The idea for the 3D- 3D-related issues relied on have been described suffi- the CAT 1 DR. Edwards wards AFB. Flight Test Squadron. “I VGS came from the lead both the AROs and engi- ciently in the initial flight AFB needs a 3D-VGS The 3D-VGS is see it being used fairly human systems integra- neer’s abilities to describe notes. to help the engineering planned to allow 412th often for test and training tion (HSI) RVS engineer and understand very diffi- Eventually, many of community more easily, engineers (e.g. human missions, possibly every on the KC-46. Through- cult things to describe and the descriptions finally effectively and efficiently factors, optics, etc.) and flight.” out RVS testing, it was understand. documented only came af- discover, reproduce, de- aircrew (e.g. KC-46 aeri- When the 3D-VGS apparent test operators For example, how does ter the test crew (engineers scribe, evaluate, and train al refueling operators) to gets to Edwards, dis- and engineers were ex- a person experience depth and AROs) increased the on emerging 3D-related do the following: cussion is ongoing with tremely limited in how perception? Are they sen- priority of collecting all issues. • 3D-playback and 412th electro-optical sys- they could discover, re- sitive to changes in depth RVS in-flight details and The 3D-VGS proposal review of unclassified tems engineers to include produce, describe, evalu- perception? If a change after the understanding is currently in SBIR Phase 3D-video; e.g. video the 3D-VGS into the ate, share, and train 3D- is noticed, how detailed and vocabulary on RVS- 1. The HSI RVS engineer from the KC-46 RVS electro-optical/infrared related issues, such as would someone be able related things increased; is currently working with lab complex planning. changes to depth percep- to describe what they ex- e.g., terms for human the chosen contractor to • Playback as similar From initial discussion tion, issues with visual perienced? That was one perception, optics and prepare the project for a to the source with the engineers, the acuity, and differences in of the key concerns try- how cameras work, ste- Phase 2 decision in June/ environment as 3D-VGS would fill their binocular imagery. ing to discern the impact reoscopic displays, etc. July. A prototype would possible; i.e. viewing need to have a similar As a result, it took over of 3D-related issues like If a 3D-VGS capabil- most likely be developed distances, etc. ground station in their 3 years to understand and depth perception. ity had been available over the next two years. Department of the Air Force stands up Diversity and Inclusion Task Force

By Secretary of the Air identification and action • Culture and Policy ic-Serving Institutions. The post-production of a PFB, are now authorized Force Public Affairs toward longer-term sys- qualified recipients will- re new video on uncon- five-year shaving waiv- temic and cultural issues • Education, Training and ceive a full-ride scholarship scious bias to highlight ers. The previous policy Testing WASHINGTON the IG might identify. with full tuition and fees bias mitigation strategies required PFB waivers to (AFNS) – The Depart- “Clearly we have to • Recruiting and paid starting in the 2020-21 that will maximize tal- be updated annually or ment of the Air Force, in acknowledge our Air and Accessions school year. The move is in- ent and benefit the entire when a member moved support of both the U.S. Space Forces are not im- tended to increase minority force. The task force is to a new duty location. Air Force and U.S. Space mune from racism and • Workforce Diversity representation in the officer also working with Cor- In some cases, members Force, stood up a special the challenges of inequity. ranks, something the Air nell University to enroll who had been previously • Aircrew Diversity task force June 9, to ad- As a force that depends Force has struggled with. several members of the diagnosed with PFB were dress the issue of racial, on unity, inclusion, and a “We have a unique and Currently, racial and ethnic Department of the Air required to get a new ethnic and other demo- common strength of pur- historical opportunity to minorities make up 40 per- Force Barrier Analysis waiver when they moved graphic disparities and pose, we are committed truly make a difference in cent of the U.S. population Working Group in an on- or deployed, forcing them their impact on the forces. to being better every day the lives of our Airmen and but only 24 percent of the line Diversity and Inclu- to shave and aggravate Also, on June 2, Sec- until all within our ranks Space Professionals,” said officer corps. sion certificate program. their skin condition or retary of the Air Force feel a true sense of be- Brig. Gen. Troy Dunn, Air These leaders will be have limited duties while Barbara M. Barrett and longing that allows them Force director of Military Revised dress and equipped with fundamen- they awaited a new medi- service chiefs, Air Force to maximize their talents,“ Force Policy and recently appearance regulation tal diversity and inclusion cal appointment. This Chief of Staff Gen. David said Lt. Gen. Brian Kelly, appointed director of the concepts and required change is intended to L. Goldfein and USSF deputy chief of staff for Diversity and Inclusion In an effort to be more to share this informa- eliminate the burdensome Chief of Space Opera- Manpower, Personnel and Task Force. “Over the past inclusive of all Airmen and tion with their respective waiver process that was tions Gen. Jay Raymond, Services. “This is why we few weeks, we’ve been Space Professionals, the teams as well as Airmen negatively impacting mi- directed the Inspector stood up the task force, to working quietly behind task force worked to revise and Space Professionals nority members, as PFB General to independently move out quickly and de- the scenes to tackle these Air Force Instruction 36- at the major command more frequently occurs in review the service’s re- liver immediate improve- issues. Though we have a 2903, “Dress and Personal and installation levels. Black/African American cord on military disci- ments for our services.” long road ahead, I’m re- Appearance of Air Force The task force is assem- males, and it also allows pline as well as leader de- Capitalizing on con- ally proud of the work this Personnel.” The changes bling options for depart- more time for the skin to velopment opportunities tinuous feedback from team has done. We want include removal of subjec- ment leaders to determine heal properly. The waiver for Black/African Ameri- the force and the momen- our people to know that tive language, including the their intent for how train- will be valid for five years can Airmen and Space tum from current national we’re steadfast in our com- word “faddish” and refer- ing will be rolled out to from the date of issuance, Professionals. events, the task force is mitment to building an Air ences to complexion; both the forces over the com- or upon an updated di- The task force is an agile cross-functional Force culture of diversity, subjective terms that were ing months and years, agnosis, and will remain charged with identify- team of military and ci- inclusion and belonging.” in some cases unfairly tar- and at what touchpoints valid regardless of the ing and changing poli- vilian Air and Space Pro- To date, the Diversity geting specific demographic in the talent management member’s deployment or cies, procedures, barriers fessionals that represent and Inclusion Task Force groups. The update also lifecycle of Airmen and new permanent change and other practices that communities within the facilitated the following included authorization for Space Professionals that of station location. may be unfairly impact- services that bring sub- changes: men to wear their hair part- training will be most ef- “Our work is cer- ing underrepresented Air ject matter expertise to the ed (cut, clipped or shaved), fective. tainly cut out for us and and Space Professionals. changes being considered. Minority Serving and authorization for name we have a list of items to It is postured to identify Members are comprised Institutions ROTC tapes to include diacritical Improved shaving tackle, but we are listen- near-term problems and of Airmen of different scholarships accents, which aid in proper waiver procedures ing and we hear you,” solutions that will have ranks and perspectives, pronunciation and provide Dunn said. “Racial dis- immediate benefits for representing both minor- In conjunction with the a more accurate representa- In conjunction with parity is a national issue members, with a focus ity and majority groups, Jeanne M. Holm Center for tion of a legal name. the Air Force Surgeon that impacts all facets on policies particularly whose sole focus is mak- Officer Accessions and Citi- General, the task force of American life and we impacting minority mem- ing changes that create an zen Development, the task Diversity, Inclusion, and used feedback from will not rest until our bers. It has been tasked to equitable environment for force is working to increase Unconscious Bias the field to improve the Airmen and Space Pro- be mindful of not impact- all Department of the Air and offer scholarships for Training shaving waiver process. fessionals feel like they ing or assuming results Force personnel. nearly 300 current and fu- Air and Space Profes- truly belong and are from the IG’s review, and The task force is task- ture ROTC cadets attending The task force, in con- sionals who have been thriving in an organiza- is therefore focused on organized across five Historically Black Colleges junction with headquar- diagnosed with Pseudo- tion that values diversity immediate actions versus lines of effort: and Universities or Hispan- ters staff, has finished folliculitis Barbae, or and equality.” 6 • July 20, 2020 Covid-19 and you

By AEDC Safety • Cough • Trouble breathing you must be around other people or animals, including pets (even at • Shortness of breath or difficulty • Persistent pain or pressure in the When COVID-19 first was intro- chest home). If you can’t put on a cloth duced who could have guessed that breathing face covering (because of trouble it would so dramatically affect every- • Fatigue • New confusion breathing, for example), cover your one’s lives the way it has: questions at coughs and sneezes in some other • Muscle or body aches • Inability to wake or stay awake the gate to get into work; then most of way. Cloth face coverings should not us working from home or being fur- • Headache • Bluish lips or face be placed on young children under age 2 years, anyone who has trouble loughed; empty store shelves, stores • New loss of taste or smell and restaurants being closed; protec- If you do go to a doctor, call ahead breathing, or anyone who is not able tive masks being suggested or required • Sore throat to notify them that you are seeking care to remove the covering without help. for someone who has or may have CO- everywhere you go; virtual town hall • Congestion or runny nose • Try to stay at least 6 feet away from meetings hosted by Commander Col. VID-19. • Nausea or vomiting other people. This will help protect Jeffrey Geraghty to keep us informed. Tips to avoid catching the people around you. Finally we got the word…back to • Diarrhea Covid-19 work. Get ready for the “New Normal” • Every day, clean and disinfect high- • Wash your hands – often - with soap – masks in common areas, extra hand *This list does not include all pos- touch surfaces including phones, and water for at least 20 seconds. sanitizers, and more depending where sible symptoms. CDC will continue to remote controls, counters, This is especially important after update this list as we learn more about tabletops, doorknobs, bathroom you work. With that in mind, in case blowing your nose, coughing, or COVID-19. fixtures, toilets, keyboards, tablets, you have missed some of the details, sneezing; going to the bathroom; and and bedside tables. let’s get caught up. before eating or preparing food. OR According to the Centers for Dis- If you are sick ease Control and Prevention (CDC) • Use hand sanitizer if soap and water 2020 has been a unique year and we the Coronavirus (COVID-19) “is a If you are sick, stay home. Most peo- are not available. Use an alcohol- are just half way through it. Keep doing new worldwide illness caused by a ple with COVID-19 have mild illness based hand sanitizer with at least 60 your best and stay healthy. virus that can spread from person to and can recover at home without medical percent alcohol, covering all surfaces If you observe an unsafe action or person. COVID-19 symptoms can care. Do not leave your home except to get of your hands and rubbing them condition that needs immediate atten- range from mild (or no symptoms) to medical care. Separate yourself from other together until they feel dry. tion (i.e., one that creates immediate severe illness.” people and pets in your home. If possible, danger to life or health), call the AEDC you should use a separate bathroom. If • Take care of yourself. Get rest and Safety Hotline, 454-7233 (S-A-F-E). Symptoms you must be around others outside of the stay hydrated. This number rings in the AEDC Safety home, wear a cloth face covering and try • Office on weekdays during business Symptoms may appear two to 14 days Avoid public transportation, ride- to stay at least 6 feet away from others. sharing or taxis hours. The AEDC Operations Center after exposure to the virus. People with Seek Emergency Medical Atten- answers calls at night, on weekends, these symptoms may have COVID-19: tion when you see the emergency • You should wear a cloth face and after the fourth ring during regu- • Fever or chills warning signs: covering over your nose and mouth if lar duty hours. Spark Tank 2021 encourages leadership to support Airmen ideas

Spark Tank, a collaboration between AFWERX and Deputy Under Secretary of the Air Force, Management, is now accepting submissions for the 2021 cam- paign from July 1 to October 16, 2020. The annual campaign is designed to spur and empower innovative ideas from Airmen to further strengthen Air Force culture and capabilities. (U.S. Air Force courtesy photo) By AFWERX Public paign, Total Force Airmen six finalists will be select- Spark Tank is also looking and responsive problem- novation, as well as high- Affairs are encouraged to submit ed to visit AFWERX Ve- to expand and improve its solving, improvement lighting the experiences of their ideas on the Airmen gas for pitch coaching and program to include more and innovation-focused previous Spark Tank par- ARLINGTON, Va. Powered by Innovation innovation training before educational opportunities culture will not happen ticipants. (AFNS) – Spark Tank, a crowdsourcing platform presenting on-stage at the and pathways for leaders overnight,” said William To get started, head collaboration between AF- where teams from their Air Force Association Air to empower Airmen at all “Brou” Gautier, Air Force over to the API crowd- WERX and Deputy Under major command will re- Warfare Symposium in levels of the organization. Continuous Process Im- sourcing platform to Secretary of the Air Force, view them and select two 2021. As part of this effort, provement & Innovation submit and share ideas, Management, is now ac- semi-finalists, each to- ad “While we only select the wing and major com- Division chief. “While provide thoughts and cepting submissions for vance to a board run by Air six finalists to progress to mand with the most num- we’ve made great strides feedback on submis- the 2021 campaign from Force Vice Chief of Staff the Spark Tank final stage, ber of ideas submitted by over the last few years sions, and vote on the July 1 to October 16. Gen. Stephen W. Wilson. we aim for all Airmen who the end of the campaign with Spark Tank and Air- most promising solutions: The annual campaign Two wildcard submissions participate in the campaign will be recognized for mo- men Powered by Innova- https://usaf.ideascalegov. is designed to spur and will also be selected to to gain something from bilizing their organization tion efforts, we still have com/a/ideas/recent/cam- empower innovative ideas progress to the board. the experience,” said Maj. to contribute to the Air a long way to go. It will paigns/156. from Airmen to further The selection process Alisha Temples, Spark Force’s innovation mis- take active participation Follow AFWERX on strengthen Air Force cul- will look at the needs for Tank deputy. “Whether sion. from our top leadership social media for the lat- ture and capabilities. specific capabilities as it’s discovering a pathway By empowering Air- and every Airmen and est campaign information: “Empowerment breeds well as concerns of safety, to share their ideas, learn- men to submit as many Space professional to get LinkedIn - www.linkedin. success,” said Lauren policy, Air Force-wide ing creative ways to solve ideas as possible, the Air us there.” com/company/afwerx- Knausenberger, Spark implementation, technical problems at their unit, or Force can begin to under- As part of this year’s usaf/; Instagram - www. Tank director. “We know feasibility and scalability. hearing the secretary of stand trends, identify pain campaign, AFWERX and instagram.coc/afwerx/; that if our Air Force lead- Non-finalist submis- the Air Force encourage points and challenge areas, SAF/MG will also be shar- Twitter - twitter.com/AF- ers demonstrate their sup- sions will be transferred them not to accept the sta- and start connecting teams ing educational material WERX; Facebook - www. port, our Airmen’s desire to the API open-call cam- tus quo--this is an event that may have similar in- on how organizations can facebook.com/AFW- to share their ideas and paign and partnered with meant for all Airmen.” terests and could benefit move beyond potential ERX/; Medium - medium. innovations would spread collaboration coaches to Building on last year’s from combining efforts. roadblocks and innovate, com/@afwerx; YouTube - like wildfire across the Air further develop their proj- event, which drew more “Shifting a decades-in- pulled from resources like www.youtube.com/chan- Force.” ects. than 200 idea submissions the-making bureaucratic the Innovation Handbook nel/UC1B5dVYEgCDI- To kick off the cam- Following the board, and named two winners, culture toward an agile and the Four Phases of In- jXVlEDiN0QQ?. July 20, 2020 • 7 8 • July 20, 2020 Eglin test squadron makes transport module ‘air worthy’

By Samuel King Jr. work together and also 96th Test Wing Public not interfere or overload Affairs each other or the aircraft systems to reach the air- EGLIN AIR worthiness goal. Other FORCE BASE, Fla. testing involved the – The Negatively Pres- loading process, egress surized Conex Lite and communication in- earned its certification side and out of the NPC for operational use June Lite. 25, only a day after its The team endured big brother completed COVID-19 protocols its first-ever deploy- and the usual weather ment mission for the and equipment failure Air Force. obstacles during the The 417th Flight Test testing, but also encoun- Squadron here played a tered daily and some- large part in achieving times hourly changes to this critical milestone. their requirements. “To go from vision to “This (NPC Lite) the warfighters’ hands program is definitely in less than 90 days is not normal. The pace of absolutely phenom- events was beyond any- enal,” said Col. Devin one’s expectations,” said Traynor, 96th Opera- Karl Biermacher, C-130 tions Group command- The Negatively Pressurized Conex Lite being loaded on an HC-130J for testing at Joint Base Charleston, avionics and electrical er. “To do that during a South Carolina. It’s the first part of a series of testing to certify the system for operations.(U.S. Air Force engineering chief at the global pandemic is sim- photo by Senior Airman Joshua Maund) Air Force Life Cycle ply unprecedented.” Management Center. At the end of April, a year of planning. Lite test team lead. groups and offices The NPC and NPC the C-130 test squad- The team created test Once the plan was in took part in the test ef- “I know first-hand how Lite are transport/isola- ron’s team took on the designs and procedures place, next came the air- fort from maintenance, challenging it can be to tion modules that can be project of NPC Lite for the three Hercu- craft. The 417th FLTS ground support, moving prepare, execute and re- loaded onto aircraft to air-worthiness testing les variants needed to does not own any air- the NPC Lite and its us- port on a test under nor- safely-move individuals for the entire Air Force represent the majority craft, so they relied on age during the testing. mal circumstances, let with the COVID-19 vi- C-130 fleet. Prior to of the Air Force C-130 other C-130 squadrons. The team needed 18 alone the circumstances rus and other highly in- any testing on the NPC fleet. The 88th Test and Eval- ground tests and one of this program. This fectious diseases. The Lite, the team spent “We had to test all uation Squadron pro- flight test at Joint Base team did all those things NPC loads onto a C-5 April and May plan- three aircraft in the vided an HC-130J. Air Charleston to reach their flawlessly, adjusting or C-17 and can trans- ning, coordinating and shortest time possible, National Guard units, requirements. A large many times to chang- port approximately 28 designing the tests that without sacrificing data the 166th Airlift Wing portion of those tests ing circumstances. Their passengers. The NPC would meet the require- integrity, to meet the and 133rd Airlift Wing, involved testing the support was exceptional Lite fits into a C-130 ments. A standard test deployment timeline,” provided a C-130H2 and electronics on the air- and I do not use that and carries around 15 program typically takes said 1st Lt. Allison C-130H3 respectively. craft and the NPC Lite. term lightly. They are passengers. at least three months to Read, 417th FLTS NPC A host of other units, Those systems needed to true professionals.” Edwards AFB prepares for 3D-Video Review Ground Station

By James C. Base is technically lim- or potentially coming In order to prepare test boom operator, 418th in depth perception? If a Cunningham ited in easily discovering, to the USAF; e.g. KC- and improve Edwards Flight Test Squadron. “I change is noticed, how 412th Test Wing reproducing, describing, 46 remote vision system AFB testing capabilities see it being used fairly detailed would someone evaluating, and training (RVS), HC-130J Large for this emerging tech- often for test and training be able to describe what EDWARDS AIR emerging 3D-related is- Aircraft Infrared Coun- nology, a proposal is cur- missions, possibly every they experienced? That FORCE BASE, Calif. – sues. However, there are termeasures upgrade, rently in work through flight.” was one of the key con- Current Test and Evalua- multiple 3D-capable sys- F-35 3D-capable head- AFWERX’s Small Busi- When the 3D-VGS cerns trying to discern tion at Edwards Air Force tems currently fielded mounted display, etc. ness Innovation Research gets to Edwards, dis- the impact of 3D-related (SBIR) office to bring a cussion is ongoing with issues like depth percep- 3D Video-review Ground 412th electro-optical sys- tion. Station (3D-VGS) to Ed- tems engineers to include Attempting to repro- wards AFB. the 3D-VGS into the duce the 3D-related is- The 3D-VGS is electro-optical/infrared sues was also difficult and planned to allow 412th lab complex planning. not guaranteed. To repro- engineers (e.g. human From initial discussion duce the issue required factors, optics, etc.) and with the engineers, the scheduling another flight aircrew (e.g. KC-46 aer- 3D-VGS would fill their to investigate a specific ial refueling operators) to need to have a similar flight condition that may do the following: ground station in their not have been described human perception and sufficiently in the initial • 3D-playback and performance lab. The 3D- flight notes. review of unclassified VGS’ display modularity Eventually, many of 3D-video; e.g. video (i.e. plug-and-play differ- the descriptions finally from the KC-46 RVS ent displays) would sup- documented only came port 2D and 3D display after the test crew (en- • Playback as similar and video review across gineers and AROs) in- to the source multiple display types. creased the priority of environment as The idea for the 3D- collecting all RVS in- possible; i.e. viewing VGS came from the lead flight details and after the distances, etc. human systems integra- understanding and vo- • Integration of other tion (HSI) RVS engineer cabulary on RVS-related display types; i.e. on the KC-46. Through- things increased; e.g., different 2D or active/ out RVS testing, it was terms for human percep- passive 3D flat-screen apparent test operators tion, optics and how cam- commercial off- and engineers were ex- eras work, stereoscopic the-shelf displays, tremely limited in how displays, etc. augmented reality and they could discover, re- If a 3D-VGS capabil- virtual-reality, etc. produce, describe, evalu- ity had been available ate, share, and train 3D- during RVS testing, the • Integration of multiple related issues, such as test team would have 3D-video formats changes to depth percep- been able to review all tion, issues with visual test video and pinpoint • Event tagging in acuity, and differences in the majority of the issues. video; e.g. ”Here’s binocular imagery. Additionally, other issues where this happened” As a result, it took over may have been found 3 years to understand and that are not described in • Exportable video clips describe the few issues the CAT 1 DR. Edwards described in the current AFB needs a 3D-VGS • Easy video access: i.e. RVS Category 1 Defi- to help the engineering through a networked ciency Report (CAT 1 community more easily, computer, portable DR). Even after the HSI effectively and efficiently hard-drive or CD/ engineer was able to see a discover, reproduce, de- DVD, or local storage few of the 3D-related is- scribe, evaluate, and train • Future system sues in-flight during test- on emerging 3D-related upgrade to allow other ing, all of the 3D-related issues. playback options issues relied on both the The 3D-VGS proposal AROs and engineer’s is currently in SBIR Phase “It would be an excel- abilities to describe and 1. The HSI RVS engineer lent instructional tool and understand very difficult is currently working with also serve as a means to things to describe and un- the chosen contractor to replicate issues noted in- derstand. prepare the project for a flight for test purposes For example, how Phase 2 decision in June/ and maintenance trou- does a person experience July. A prototype would bleshooting,” said Staff depth perception? Are most likely be developed Sergeant Andrew Miller, they sensitive to changes over the next two years. July 20, 2020 • 9 Innovation during COVID-19 Operations: 771st Test Squadron brings machine learning to data analysis

By Daniel Carlson The capability has been collaborate on Sasha devel- 771st Test Squadron demonstrated on multiple opment remotely and the data sets from multiple progress they have made EDWARDS AIR platforms and when fully recently is remarkable.” FORCE BASE, Cali- matured has the potential Recently while tele- fornia – The 771st Test to save hundreds of man- working, the Sasha team Squadron has discovered hours across the squadron. has been working on a new opportunities for in- The arrival of the CO- new unsupervised machine novation while adjusting VID-19 pandemic and learning technique called to the new normal of tele- the 771st Test Squadron’s clustering. While super- work operations during abrupt transition to 100 vised machine learning the COVID-19 pandemic. percent telework has been requires training a model The 771st has recently em- challenging but has also with old data sets, cluster- ployed a machine learning offered new opportunities ing can attempt to classify tool nicknamed “Sasha” for collaboration and in- radiofrequency signals with and is showing promise in novation across the squad- no a priori knowledge. This data analysis, according to ron. The squadron quickly type of analysis is useful for engineers at Edwards Air Sasha programmer Rony Maida,771st Test Squadron, developed the machine adopted new collaboration both refining a previously Force Base, California. learning tool to aid engineers in data analytics. (Air Force photo by Giancarlo Casem) tools and setup online de- reconciled data set and for The 771st’s Electronic velopment environments identifying new signals Warfare testers develop As EW systems get to deliver data at the speed reconciliation process can at home so that technical which were not previously tried and true methods of more sophisticated, the of relevance. Doing quality be manually intensive and work on projects such as known. performing data analysis for amount of data collected and timely data analysis on often takes hours or days to Sasha could continue. Sasha and tools like it the test enterprise. This data during each mission has ever-larger volumes of data complete for a single mis- “Members of the 771st ensure that EW data analy- analysis feeds test reports rapidly increased. Analyz- require new approaches sion. This is where Sasha have done an amazing job sis keeps pace with an ever for program offices which ing and reporting on these such as big data analytics comes in. of adapting and thriving in changing world and ensures in turn guide the fielding of larger volumes of data and machine learning. By training a model this new telework environ- that the squadron continues capabilities for the warfight- have traditionally been a One of the first steps in with previously reconciled ment,” said Lt. Col. Chris to provide timely, relevant, er and highlight deficiencies manual and time consum- EW data analysis is recon- data, machine learning can Rehm, 771st TS Com- and accurate information in that must be addressed in ing process, but these con- ciling data collected by an be used to automatically mander. “Sasha is a good the fight to keep American order to ensure the safety of ventional analysis methods aircraft sensor with truth reconcile a new data set in case-in-point, the team warfighting capabilities the service members. could eventually struggle data from a test range. This minutes rather than hours. quickly figured out how to best in the world. Goldfein describes the future of the Air Force By Tech. Sgt. Robert Joint All-Domain Command data as the currency of future Goldfein touted Brown’s East, and every international (officer), quite frankly, that’s Barnett and Control, an approach warfare.” command experience in air chief in the Pacific and better,” Goldfein said. “The Secretary of the Air Force that aligns each branch of Building this force means Europe, Central Command, (U.S. Indo-Pacific Com- wonderful thing is he and Public Affairs the U.S. military to maxi- focusing on recruitment and and now the Pacific. mand),” he explained. “This Sharene are an incredible mize the projection of power development, Goldfein ex- “He knows every inter- is a guy whose resume is just team. It’s going to be fun WASHINGTON across air, land, sea, space plained. national air chief from Afri- spectacular.” to hand the flag to a good (AFNS) – Air Force Chief and cyber operations. “We’re doing a lot of ca to Europe, with a personal “An unbelievable offi- friend and a great officer, of Staff Gen. David L. Gold- This concept, known in work toward becoming a relationship…every interna- cer…if you look at his back- who will take this Air Force fein presented an optimistic the shorthand JADC2, rep- more diverse force, but I tional air chief in the Middle ground, you won’t find one to newer heights.” and confident portrait of the resents a fundamental shift think we have the oppor- service’s future July 1, telling in how the joint force and tunity in front of us right an influential audience at the industry will do business, he now to put our foot on the Brookings Institution the ser- said. The collection of net- gas and really move for- vice is fulfilling all missions worked systems and imme- ward,” he said. “We’re the with excellence and ingenuity diately-available information big tent service because Team AEDC Frontlines despite an array of challenges. is critical to enabling joint we have the most diverse During the hour-long service operations across all mission set. We do leaflets By Deidre Moon puts the spotlight on some The following are the virtual appearance, the Air domains. to nukes. We ought to be AEDC Public Affairs of the members of Team first three from the series. Force’s highest-ranking offi- It is about connecting the very best in the world AEDC on the “frontlines” Please visit www.arnold. cer explained that the service the force in ways never at diversity. And we’re not. Editor’s note: The Team supporting our mission, af.mil regularly to see oth- has made progress toward seen before, Goldfein said. But we can be.” AEDC Frontlines series people and families during er Team AEDC members high-priority goals that in- He illustrated the concept The measures being is a recurring feature that the COVID-19 crisis. featured clude all-domain, joint opera- by explaining that new air- put in place to get where tions and adapting to meeting craft must be able to “talk” the force needs to be are threats from near-peer pow- to older aircraft. They also aggressive and long-term, ers. must be able to instantly and he explained. They in- He also discussed im- seamlessly communicate volve changing the demo- provements in technological with an X-37 space plane graphic, building a culture innovation and acknowl- in orbit, a Marine task force of inclusiveness at the edged the need to address or an Army brigade combat squadron level, and giving new challenges. The oppor- team on the ground and to a commanders the tools they tunities included the contin- Navy submarine below sea. need. ued development of the U.S. Every system needs to be op- “History’s not on our Space Force, improving the timized to operate simultane- side here,” he said, noting diversity of the Air Force, ously in all-domain opera- the human tendency to- while also ensuring social tions, in land, sea, undersea, ward distraction. “Shame and criminal justice across space and cyberspace. on us, if we let that happen. the service. The third element of in- I’ve talked to command- Goldfein explained that vestment was a hybrid force ers across the Air Force, early in his tenure, he noticed – describing the desire for and asked them to commit four key areas “we have to stand-off and stand-in sys- right now to making his- invest in if we’re going to tems. In order to win future tory wrong on this one.” build the force we need to be battles, this means portions The CSAF explained (U.S. Air Force graphic) able to compete, deter, and of the joint team should be that he wants the Air Force Kevin Holton is the added that the respon- different from his team’s if deterrence fails, win,” he able to “penetrate, persist, to be the standard that Senior Security Services sibilities of him and his pre-COVID 19 routine. said. proliferate, protect and pun- other services strive to fol- Contractor for the Arnold team have also increased “AID security offi- The first key area was ish the adversary,” while oth- low. He wants diversity of Engineering Develop- during this time. cers have continued to do space. The Air Force had to er portions of the force may Airmen across the demo- ment Complex at Arnold “The security team what we signed on to do, make space superiority num- have to operate from outside graphics, of ideas and in- Air Force Base. has worn many hats and and that’s keep the base ber one, he explained. “It the threat area. novation to think of things Holton arrived at Ar- stepped up its duties for population safe and the was never a guarantee that The final area focused on others haven’t thought of, nold AFB in January the past several weeks nation’s defense resourc- if you moved first in space the false assumption that fu- and solve problems for 2017, previously serving with AEDC leadership es secure. that you were going to win. ture logistics are safe. questions not asked yet, the local community as a implementing a number “What the current pos- But in every (war) game we “Let’s be honest, I’ve in order to network every law enforcement officer of base entry restriction ture has brought to light is played, if you were the sec- been able to flow whatever asset in the armed services for 15 years. updates daily to limit the a bigger understanding of ond mover, you were guar- forces I needed into theater and the fighting force he “My responsibility spread of COVID-19,” how we are all connected anteed to lose,” he said. in whatever time frame or envisions for 2030. here at Arnold is to lead he said. “In addition to with our mission, how we “It became clear to me mode I wanted, and I was Maturing this doc- the 60 security profes- these changes, the secu- interact with each other that the time to build a ser- never under attack,” Gold- trine, and the technology sionals charged with rity team has increased its day-to-day can and will vice was now… that a chief fein said. “That’s a false as- surrounding it, is among keeping the bad guys out cleanliness practices and impact people around of a service focused on space sumption for a future con- Goldfein’s most signifi- and the good information sanitation methods to en- us, and the importance is going to move faster than flict.” cant accomplishments as in,” he said. “It is the AID sure posts and patrol ve- of a healthy home and a chief of a service that’s Each of these four areas his four-year term as chief (Akima Intra-Data) secu- hicles are kept clean and work environment given focused on the entire multi- contribute to building a force of staff comes to an end rity team’s duty to secure sanitized for the safety of how rapidly this virus domain Air Force,” Gold- that could change the out- next month. He said his resources and protect security personnel, mis- spreads. With that said, fein said. “Once I became a come of future fights. job as the outgoing chief the base populace in ac- sion essential employees a positive attitude can believer, I got behind it full- “The only way to pay for is to run a transition that’s cordance with Air Force frequenting the base and spread just as fast as CO- force.” that [force] is to get rid of the gold standard for guidelines.” the families we all return VID-19, and I would like The plan is to make the those things that don’t play continuity, stability and With security services home to.” to see that spread through- new service successful with- well or heavily in the 2030 keeping the missions of serving an essential func- Holton did also note, out the Complex in these in the Department of the Air fight. That’s the path the ser- the Air Force. tion for base operations, however, that at the end challenging times.” Force, which means growing vice has been on,” he said. Finally, he praised the Holton has continued to of the day, the current Kevin, thank you it while keeping it connected, “Trying to get us to think selection of Gen. Charles be on site throughout the posture for AEDC has not for all you do for he said. about digital engineering, Q. Brown Jr. to be the COVID-19 pandemic. He been all that significantly Team AEDC! The second key area was architecture and common 22nd Chief of Staff. 10 • July 20, 2020 Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey helps civilians voice their opinions

The Federal Employee Viewpoint Survey will be available for Air Force civilian employees starting July 15. (Courtesy graphic)

By Secretary of the Air tion survey takes 20-to-30 are eligible to participate employees have worked how to improve ourselves, to other Departments Force staff report minutes to complete and and will receive a link for together, used tools, re- our organizations and our within the Federal is anonymous. The survey the survey via an email ceived communications, Department.” Government ARLINGTON, Va. includes questions about from OPM. The survey maintained health and Kelly highlighted three “The 2020 FEVS pro- (AFNS) – The Federal employees’ work-life, job invitation and OPM re- safety, employed work/ objectives for this year’s vides an opportunity to fur- Employee Viewpoint Sur- and organizational satis- minder emails will come life flexibilities and more. upcoming Federal Em- ther strengthen communica- vey will be available for faction, commitment, en- from ‘[email protected]’ “Feedback through the ployee Viewpoint Survey: Air Force civilian em- tions and understanding be- gagement, performance between July 15 and Au- FEVS provides insight a) Increase survey ployees starting July 15. tween Air Force leadership management and com- gust 26. into what our civilian Air- participation The FEVS is a govern- munication. It measures In an effort to under- men think we’re doing and our civilian employ- ees,” Kelly said. “We are ea- ment-wide, Office of Per- employee perceptions of stand how the COVID-19 right and where we need b) Increase communication ger to hear what our civilian sonnel Management ad- whether their organization pandemic has affected to improve,” said Lt. Gen. and feedback between Airmen have to say.” ministered annual survey is successful. the federal workforce, Brian Kelly, Manpower, leaders and employees that Air Force civilian em- Permanent, non-sea- this year’s survey will be Personnel and Services, on their concerns For more information ployees have been partici- sonal full and part-time a census including ques- deputy chief of staff. “The about the Federal Employ- pating in since 2006. The civilian employees on- tions designed to gather more people participate, c) Understand the Air ee Viewpoint Survey, visit approximately 100-ques- board as of October 2019 information about how the better sense we get for Force in comparison https://www.opm.gov/fevs/. Minnesota ANG transports aid to Honduras through Denton Program

By Maria Pinel Force-Bravo Civil Affairs Joint Task Force Bravo team, which frequently Public Affairs engages in the commu- nity. SOTO CANO AIR “Our civil affairs BASE, Honduras teams are where policy (AFNS) – A U.S. Air meets people – we oper- Force C-17 Globemas- ate within communities ter III from the 133rd around Honduras to grow Air National Guard in partnerships at the grass- Minnesota transported a roots level, enabling us to large donation of 44,180 work side-by-side with pounds of humanitar- our Honduran partners ian aid supplies to Soto and provide meaningful Cano Air Base, June 26, assistance during difficult through the U.S. Agency times,” said U.S. Army for International Devel- Lt. Col. Jeffrey Uherka, opment’s Denton Pro- JTF-Bravo Civil Affairs gram. director. “With the help The shipment was of MAP International, originally intended to USAID, and the Denton support New Horizons, Program, coupled with a U.S. Army South-led our partnerships with the joint humanitarian ex- Honduran government— ercise that would have we are proud to get taken place in southern much-needed supplies to Honduras, but was can- people across Honduras celled due to COVID-19, during this pandemic. We Tech. Sgt. Heather Boutin and Senior Airman Megan Lenling, 133rd Airlift Wing’s Air Transportation and items were redirected are Americans invested Function air transportation specialists, direct and load medical supplies onto a C-17 Globemaster III to support local hospitals in America, and this do- during a Denton Humanitarian Assistance Program mission June 13 at the Minneapolis-St. Paul Joint Air throughout Honduras. nation truly represents Reserve Station, Minnesota. The cargo was destined for people with disabilities in Danli, Honduras. (U.S. The articles were do- that.” Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Bristol L. Evasco) nated by MAP Interna- The donation included tional and other organi- 15 pallets of hygiene ar- Permanent Contingency and three in San Pedro multi-agency effort and fense, which provides zations, and the donation ticles to be distributed at Commission in Hondu- Sula to support COV- showcases the collabora- coordination and trans- was coordinated and fa- the regional hospital in ras, four of which will be ID-19 quarantine centers. tive relationship between portation of the materials, cilitated by the Joint Task Choluteca through the delivered to Tegucigalpa The Denton Program is a the Department of De- and USAID. July 20, 2020 • 11 Trailblazers: AETC honors first women pilots in Air Force history By Capt. Kenya Pettway Air Education and Training Command Public Affairs

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RAN- DOLPH, Texas – In hon- or of the first women who became pilots of the U.S. Air Force, Air Education and Training Command officials renamed the Mar- tin Hall Conference Room, the Trailblazer Room, dur- ing a virtual ceremony here June 29. Located at AETC headquarters, the newly renamed Trailblazer Room was dedicated to the first 10 women who earned their silver wings Sept. 2, 1977. “The women of class 77-08 truly broke barri- ers,” said Lt. Gen. Brad Webb, AETC commander, who presided over the ceremony. “They lived the fact that glass ceilings were a reality simply be- cause they were women. These trailblazers paved Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Mary Livingston speaks about her experiences in undergraduate pilot training during the Trailblazer the way for future genera- Room dedication ceremony June 29 at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, TX. Located in the AETC headquarters main building, tions of female pilots and the newly renamed Trailblazer Room was dedicated to the first 10 women who earned their silver wings Sept. 2, 1977. (U.S. Air their influence on our Air Force photo by Sean M. Worrell) Force is still felt today.” manded C-141s. Flying a Although LaSauce’s The 10 women of un- C-141 Starlifter, Rogers interest in becoming a pi- dergraduate pilot train- evacuated victims of a lot was not met with opti- ing class 77-08 who were bombing attack on Marine mism by society, she did honored are – Kathleen A. barracks in Beirut, Leba- so anyway. Cosand, Victoria K. Craw- non. “I wanted to play the ford, Mary E. Donahue, She died from cancer trumpet and they said Connie J. Engel, Kathy in 1992 and left behind a ‘no, girls don’t play the LaSauce, Mary M. Liv- legacy of excellence. trumpet,’ so I played the ingston, Susan D. Rogers, trumpet,” said LaSauce. Carol A. Scherer, Christine Christine E. Schott “I wanted to be a drum E. Schott, and Sandra M. major and they said ‘no, Scott. Schott was the first girls aren’t drum majors’ In 1975, Chief of Staff woman to solo in the so I became a drum major. of the Air Force, Gen. Da- Northrop T-38A Talon at When I set my heart on vid C. Jones, announced Williams AFB, Arizona. doing something, I didn’t the launch of a test pro- She later became the listen to those who told me gram that would enable first woman to qualify I couldn’t.” women to enter pilot train- and serve as an aircraft ing and staff a now all- commander on the C-9A Sandra M. Scott Retired U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Sandra Scott speaks about her experiences volunteer force after the Nightingale medical trans- in undergraduate pilot training during the Trailblazer Room dedication cer- abolishment of the mili- port and command its first Scott became the first emony June 29 at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas. (U.S. Air Force tary draft following the all-female aircrew. female tanker commander photo by Sean M. Worrell) Vietnam War. to perform alert duty for a fighter pilot.” LaSauce trailblazers forged a path of women who broke bar- “This was the first Connie J. Engel the Strategic Air Com- said her flight commander for the women who fol- riers.” time, nearly three decades mand. shared the same senti- lowed. As of January 2020, after the birth of the Air Engel, the class leader, She joined Air Force ment, stating that if he “About a year later, women make up 21 per- Force, that women were was the first in her class ROTC at Oregon State had his way, none of the female astronauts be- cent of all Air Force allowed to join the service to solo in the T-37 Nov. University in 1970 af- women would graduate. gan training at Vance Air members. Of the 328,255 as equals to men and enter 30, 1976, earning her one ter school officials had In the face of these Force Base, Oklahoma,” active duty members, pilot and navigator career of the three Distinguished opened the program to unique challenges, they said Gary Boyd, AETC 68,470 are women, with fields,” said Webb. “This Graduate awards, the Offi- women only a year prior. knew that the future of command historian. “The 806 who serve as pilots, dedication will serve as a cer Training Award for ex- Following her commis- women in aviation rested success of the group ush- 347 navigators and 233 reminder for all of us of hibiting “high qualities of sioning in 1973, she was on their success. ered in the modern era of air battle managers, ac- the courage these female military bearing and lead- stationed at Tyndall Air “Women would not be military aviation.” cording to Air Force Per- pioneers showed while ership,” and the Air Train- Force Base, Florida, for flying combat missions, Decades later, honor- sonnel Center officials. shattering those glass ceil- ing Commander’s Trophy weapons controller train- flying fighters or - com ing their stories and the “There is no denying ings.” as top graduate. ing where she was first manding flying squadrons historical feats of each the trailblazing women of Sept. 26, 1976, these Following graduation, exposed to aviation. if we didn’t succeed,” of the women from UPT class 77-08 were set up 10 women, alongside their she became the first fe- After completing her said LaSauce. “We knew class 77-08, uplifted the in such a way that failure 35 male classmates, be- male T-38 instructor and first assignment, she went in our hearts we needed to honorees. would have been easy,” gan UPT at Williams Air flew the T-38 chase for the to King Salmon Air Force do well.” “It warms my heart said Webb. “But that’s not Force Base, Arizona, and space shuttle program. Station, Alaska, where Although it was anoth- that Air Education and what Airmen do. Through cemented their place in she met pilots who were er 30 years before women Training Command de- grit and determination not history. Kathy LaSauce conducting alert missions. were allowed to fly in cided to tell our story,” only did they succeed, Accumulating more When the Air Force an- combat missions, the 10 said Scott. “It’s the story they excelled.” than 210 flight hours in the LaSauce became the nounced its test program, T-37 Tweet and T-38 Talon first female pilot to - com she applied and was ac- aircrafts, they successfully mand a C-141 and the first cepted. completed UPT and went woman to serve as a presi- “My parents infused on to achieve more histori- dential support pilot. in me the idea that it cal feats in their Air Force She joined the Air wasn’t about me being a careers that pioneered fu- Force in 1972 and received woman,” said Scott. “It ture generations of women one of only two slots avail- was that I had abilities to follow. able for women to attend and that I could use those Air Force Officer Training abilities to accomplish Mary E. Donahue School. After graduating anything.” OTS, LaSauce was select- In spite of the wom- Donahue became the ed as one of the first female en’s accomplishments first woman to serve as an officers in aircraft -main during pilot training, they instructor pilot assigned to tenance, a newly opened faced disparaging public the Air Force Academy, career field for women at opinion. where she taught senior that time. Her experience Some male flight -in cadets to fly the T-41 train- in aircraft maintenance structors opposed the test er and was an educator in helped her gain one of the program and didn’t be- the department of math- 10 slots for women to enter lieve women should fly, ematical science. pilot training. a position they expressed Susan D. Rogers “I loved aircraft main- openly during training. Rogers was the com- tenance,” said LaSauce. “I LaSauce recalled a mander of the first all- loved working around air- time when an instructor female C-9A Nightingale planes. When pilot train- told Livingston, “I don’t crew. Later, while sta- ing opened for women, know why I’m teaching tioned at McGuire AFB, I knew that was what I you how to fly the T-38 New Jersey, she com- wanted to do.” because you’ll never be 12 • July 20, 2020