MOBILITYTHE MAGAZINE OF AIRFORUM MOBILITY COMMAND | FALL 2020

Transportation Isolation System Contributes to Saving the Day During COVID-19 Pandemic

AMC Welcomes New Commander, KC-135 Gen Jacqueline YEARS OF SERVICE Van Ovost and going strong THE Volume 29, No. 3 MOBILITY Fall 2020 FORUM CONTENTS Gen Jacqueline D. Van Ovost

DIRECTOR OF SAFETY Col Brandon R. Hileman [email protected]

EDITORS Kim Knight [email protected] 3 8 18 26 Sherrie Schatz Sheree Lewis [email protected] FROM THE TOP AMC NEWS GRAPHIC DESIGN Elizabeth Bailey 3 AMC Welcomes New 14 Negatively Pressurized 31 Ready for the Commander, Gen Conex: A Fast-Track Unexpected The Mobility Forum (TMF) is published Development for 36 A Wingman’s Philosophy four times a year by the Director of 7 618th Air Operations Transporting Can Save the Day Safety, Air Mobility Command, Scott COVID-19 Patients AFB, IL. The contents are informative and Center Welcomes New not regulatory or directive. Viewpoints Commander 16 AMC Modernizes Battle MOTORCYCLE CULTURE expressed are those of the authors and Concepts to Move at the do not necessarily reflect the policy AMC HERITAGE Speed of War 34 The Freedom of of AMC, USAF, or any DoD agency. Motorcycles and Contributions: Please email articles and 18 Transportation Isolation 8 The KC-135: 60 Years of Forever Changes photos to [email protected], System Contributes to Service and Going Strong! fax to (580) 628-2011, or mail to Saving the Day During Schatz Publishing, 11950 W. Highland REGULAR FEATURES 24 Broken Arrow: Titan II COVID-19 Pandemic Ave., Blackwell, OK 74631. For Missile Complex 374-7 questions call (580) 628-4607. TMF 38 Mishap-Free Flying editors reserve the right to make MOBILITY OPERATIONS Hour Milestones editorial changes to manuscripts. FLIGHT SAFETY 20 Global Reach and 39 Quickstoppers DE denotes digitally enhanced photo. 11 AOC: Seeing More Than Operation El Dorado 40 A Day in the Life Subscriptions: U.S. Government One Side of the Air Canyon — The 1986 Publishing Office: 2020-745-102/10021. For sale by the Superintendent of 28 Combined Experience Strike on Libya ON THE COVER Documents, U.S. Government Publishing and Training Allowed Office. Internet: bookstore.gpo.gov. 26 Full Spectrum Readiness: Celebrating the KC-135R KC-135 Crew to Work Phone: toll free (866) 512-1800; DC area Aerial Refueling Stratotanker’s 60 years Through In-Flight Issues (202) 512-1800. Fax: (202) 512-2104. of past service, going Mail: Stop IDCC, Washington, DC and Land Safely HEALTH AND FITNESS strong into the future. 20402-0001. AMC RP 91-2. Dist: X 22 The Ups and Downs of ISSN 1559-159X 12 ASAPs — Why We Want 32 Training for the Big Race Your Identity (But We Visit www.themobilityforum.net Will Protect It) for and past editions of

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2 The Mobility Forum FROM THE TOP

AMC Welcomes New Commander, Gen Jacqueline Van Ovost

Gen Paul J. Selva, Vice Chairman of the , and then Lt Gen Jacqueline D. Van Ovost, Director of Staff for the Air Force Headquarters, at King County International Airport – Boeing Field, Seattle, WA, Jan. 31, 2019. DoD Photo by U.S. Army Sgt James K. McCann

Fall 2020 3 FROM THE TOP

AMC is the backbone of global joint force power projection and the linchpin to worldwide humanitarian aid and disaster response efforts.”

ecently, in a joint effort with i Admiral Michelle Howard – make our people better? The answers Commander’s Action Group, first female 4-Star Admiral in to those questions remain the essential The Mobility Forum asked new the Navy and highest ranking definition of what I consider success, RCommander Gen Jacqueline D. female African American and is what I have dedicated myself to Van Ovost for her thoughts about Air getting after with each assignment. Mobility Command (AMC) and her i Gen Lori Robinson – first female vision for the future. combatant commander I have had the tremendous opportunity to serve in numerous How do you think your i Gen – first organizations within the Air Force and Q experience in the Air Force has female pilot 4-Star and the joint community. Each assignment prepared you for the role of the first Reservist to command AMC significantly increased my perspectives highest-ranking woman in the and enhanced my understanding of U.S. military? i CMSgt JoAnne Bass – first how each service integrates its unique female Chief Master Sergeant capabilities to produce the world’s It is my privilege to build upon of the Air Force greatest military force. the legacies of many trailblazers who have demonstrated incredible I am honored to stand in such a Operationally, I learned firsthand leadership and excellence and opened distinguished line of exceptional joint how critical our rapid global mobility doors for all members of the joint female senior leaders. capabilities are to the success of the force, including: joint force, our partners and allies, Growing up, I never imagined I would and diplomacy. I also learned the vital i Gen Ann Dunwoody – first be a 4-Star General, much less the importance of modernizing our weapon female 4-Star General and first commander of Air Mobility Command. systems to address emerging threats female 4-Star General in the Army I knew I always wanted to fly, and as and to arm our Airmen with the most a young officer, after each leadership effective tools to get after the mission. i Gen Janet Wolfenbarger – opportunity, I always took the time first female 4-Star General in to consider: Is the mission better? Did My command experience in Air the Air Force we inspire and provide opportunity to Education and Training Command

4 The Mobility Forum FROM THE TOP

cemented the importance of forging dedicated Airmen of AMC to ensure What do you see as the greatest foundational skills into our Airmen the command continues to meet the Q opportunities for AMC to to ensure the success of our force. challenges of today and the future. continue to excel? Developing character, leadership, and competency through high- Your recent service has AMC is the backbone of global quality training and education Q been outside of Air Mobility joint force power projection and the programs marked one of my Command. In your view, how has linchpin to worldwide humanitarian most rewarding experiences. the command changed? aid and disaster response efforts. While we meet these requirements, Serving in When I look at the command today, we must continue to build credible Transportation Command (USTC) and I see incredibly smart Total Force capacity within the command. We as the USAF Expeditionary Center Airmen who embrace full spectrum must adapt to the threat and develop Vice Commander, I witnessed the readiness and innovation. They are a sufficient amount of expertly key role our global enroute Airmen more technologically advanced and trained Total Force Airmen operating play in the Joint Deployment and inquisitive. I see commanders fully capable and reliable weapon systems Distribution Enterprise and was in awe embracing the authorities pushed down to meet the high demand required by of the life-saving and mission-assuring to their level. I see a command pivoting the joint force. capabilities of the Air Force’s only into a warfighting-focused component Contingency Response Wing. MAJCOM that is in many ways leading Credible capacity is all-encompassing, the Air Force in the development of but it starts with our Airmen. We must As a senior leader on the Joint Staff and enhanced capabilities for the high-end continue deliberate development of at Headquarters Air Force, I witnessed fight. AMC Airmen are developing new our Airmen to become courageous the incredible leadership of our Total concepts of operation and getting after leaders of character leading AMC into Force Airmen and took note of how how they will execute them in contested the future. We must ensure they are, each of the services’ capabilities— environments. The criticality of the 618th as Gen Mattis would say, “brilliant at underpinned by the agile mobility Air Operations Center has never been the basics,” and challenge them to be capabilities of USTC and AMC—fused clearer as assured command and control, disciplined risk-takers and joint force into a joint military force that deters from the most forward echelon back leaders in a dynamic and ill-defined and defeats on a global scale. I watched to the headquarters, is paramount to high-end fight. with pride as AMC Airmen always delivering rapid global mobility effects. delivered on their promise! I have admired our MAF Airmen and We also have to continue to work their tremendous accomplishments from with our combatant commands to I bring these experiences, but alone I do afar. Now I am excited to return and develop new warfighting concepts and not have all the answers. I am excited to lead the dedicated and courageous men innovative ways to negate adversary work with the incredibly talented and and women of AMC! advantages. As we lean forward into a

Fall 2020 5 FROM THE TOP

Members of Team Charleston hold the flag up in honor of fallen Air Force Hero 1 Lt David Schmitz, pilot, 77th Fighter Squadron, , SC, on July 4, 2020 at Joint Base Charleston, SC. Two F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 169th Fighter Wing, McEntire Joint National Guard Base, SC, flew in formation behind the C-17 Globemaster III. USAF photo by SrA William Brugge

new joint warfighting design, we have fight. As always, AMC will meet these be another COVID, hurricane season, to continue to adapt to ensure we meet challenges head on. or threat that challenges our ability to our mission of being the most agile project decisive strength and deliver arm of United States Transportation You recently spoke about the hope. Above all, they are leaders of Command—delivering, sustaining, Q importance of ensuring the character, treating others with dignity maneuvering, and reconstituting the success of the air mobility and respect. Airmen are the foundation joint force. We have to recapitalize enterprise. Can you describe what of our success. and modernize our weapon systems your vision of success looks like? to ensure we can continue to deliver. As an enterprise, we employ Bringing the KC-46 to full operational A successful air mobility enterprise accelerated learning and agile capability and continuing to ensure our delivers agile mobility capabilities to capability development that arms our crown jewel, the 618th Air Operations United States Transportation Command Airmen with enhanced capabilities Center, is enhanced with the latest and the joint force in order to meet faster than our adversaries. Our Airmen technological capabilities to command our national security objectives. It is embrace the idea that innovation is the and control through contested domains comprised of Total Force Airmen—from foundation, not the goal. will be among our top priorities. the flight line to the front line, from the cockpit to the clinic—who embrace I am humbled by the many sacrifices Success will require difficult choices. the new realities of the contested our Airmen make and their dedication We will make tough decisions on where environment. They are leaders and to our air mobility mission. I am excited we prioritize our resources and time innovators, questioning how they can to command and serve beside the to ensure we can build the advanced do the mission better. They are strong incredible Total Force Airmen of Air capabilities required for the high-end and resilient, because there will always Mobility Command.

6 The Mobility Forum FROM THE TOP

618th Air Operations Center Welcomes New Commander

BY 618TH AIR OPERATIONS CENTER

rig Gen Daniel A. DeVoe took command of the 618th Air Operations Center (AOC) from Brig Gen Jimmy R. Canlas during a change of command ceremony at BScott Air Force Base on June 12, 2020. Gen Maryanne Miller, former Air Mobility Command Brig Gen Daniel A. DeVoe speaks to the audience after taking command (AMC) Commander, presided over the ceremony. of the 618th Air Operations Center (AOC), June 12, at , IL. The 618 AOC is responsible for operational planning, tasking, “At every turn, this team has pushed the mission and executing, and assessing a fleet of approximately 1,100 aircraft in provided critical mobility for a very unique time support of combat delivery and strategic airlift, air refueling, and aeromedical operations around the world. in our history,” said Miller. “There’s no doubt our AOC, our leadership and our teams within the AOC will be able to USAF photo by SrA Soloman Cook tackle whatever comes their way. They always do.”

A graduate of the Academy, DeVoe mobility community is resourced and ready to better previously served as the Vice Commander of the 618 AOC. support the Air Force efforts of Joint All-Domain Command During his tenure, DeVoe oversaw implementation of the and Control (JADC2). largest, full-scale organizational transformation in nearly 30 years to better ensure AMC is postured to meet the “I am incredibly honored and humbled to assume command requirements of the National Defense Strategy. of the 618 AOC,” said Devoe. “I know your capabilities and commitment. You will get the same from me.” “Dan, I have watched you learn, grow and lead in this very demanding environment. I have full confidence in your ability The 618 AOC is responsible for operational planning, as the next leader of this organization,” Miller continued. tasking, executing, and assessing a fleet of approximately 1,100 aircraft in support of combat delivery and strategic In this role, DeVoe will be responsible for enhancing the airlift, air refueling, and aeromedical operations around AOC’s ability to sustain the Joint Force, ensuring the the world.

Fall 2020 7 AMC HERITAGE

A Utah KC-135R Stratotanker casts its reflection on a watered- down flight line at the Roland R. Wright Air National Guard Base, UT. THE USANG photo by TSgt Amber Monio KC-135

Years of Service and Going 60 Strong! BY MS. JEANIE HOOD, HQ AMC FLIGHT SAFETY

8 The Mobility Forum AMC HERITAGE

A KC-97G 53-3816 in flight. 98th Air Refueling Squadron, Lincoln AFB, NE. AMC History Office photo

sk any fighter pilot how they The KC-135 Stratotanker The KC-135 Stratotanker is a unique feel about the KC-135 when asset that provides the core aerial they are halfway across the is a unique asset that refueling capability for the Air Force, AAtlantic Ocean (the pond) and provides the core aerial enhancing the primary mission of running low on fuel. I have flown global reach. The KC-135 delivers fuel KC-135 dozens of missions across the pond refueling capability for to Air Force assets, as well as to the with fighters in loose trail formation the Air Force, enhancing Navy, Marines, and other allied nation and always knew when they were aircraft during training, combat, and running low on fuel. Very slowly, they the primary mission of humanitarian efforts. would tighten up their formation with global reach. the tanker and position themselves The first KC-135 rolled out of the off the left wingtip. Once they had the Boeing plant on July 18, 1956, and tanker pilot’s attention, they would significantly faster than the KC-97 flew for the first time on August put their thumb up to their mask and and also required special jet fuel. 31, 1956. The first tankers were tilt their head back, indicating they The KC-97, being piston-powered, delivered to were thirsty. I usually acknowledged used standard aviation gasoline and (AFB), CA, in June of 1957 during by lifting my cup of coffee as if required an additional reservoir of fuel President Eisenhower’s second term saluting. Into the slot they would go, for the B-52. In order for the heavy in office. The was getting and the magnificent boom operator gross bomber to refuel, it had warmer with alert bombers ready to took over. to reduce its speed to near stall speed strike Russia at a moment’s notice. by lowering the flaps and the rear Unfortunately, the bomber was not One of the earliest air refuelings landing gear. While this approach was capable of carrying enough fuel for a occurred in the 1920s between two a feasible option, it was less than ideal. round-trip mission. The bomber had slow-moving biplanes. The lead pilot, It was apparent that a tanker needed to make multiple stops for fuel on using a handheld gas tank and hose, to be developed that had performance its way to the target and then repeat lowered the hose to the receiving pilot, capabilities and speeds comparable to the process to return to the home who then placed the hose directly into the B-52. station. The Stratotanker was initially his aircraft’s gas tank. During the years purchased to support Strategic Air that followed, many attempts were Enter the KC-135, a Boeing aircraft Command (SAC) bombers, giving made to make air refueling a more designed specifically for aerial them virtually unlimited range and efficient and safe process. Fast forward refueling with double the fuel endurance. This procedure allowed all to the 1950s. After years of research and capacity of the KC-97 and enough targets to now be within reach without development, which proved that aerial speed to keep up with the bombers. needing to land and refuel several refueling was essential to airpower, the Initially, there were no buyers for times before reaching their destination. KC-97 tanker was created. the prototype, so Boeing paid for it Eventually, more than 800 tankers with their own money and gave the would be purchased by the Air Force, The KC-97 proved to be a valuable KC-135 the initial designation Model with the last one delivered in 1965. asset until the introduction of the B-52 717. Luckily, the new design was Stratofortress in 1955. The bomber, well-received by both the military and The KC-135 proved to be a game- powered by eight jet engines, was commercial enterprises. changer during the Vietnam War. The

Fall 2020 9 AMC HERITAGE

Two U.S. Air Force B-52H Stratofortress aircraft assigned to the 96th Bomb Squadron, Barksdale AFB, LA, fly in formation during Bomber Task Force Europe 20-1, Oct. 23, 2019, over the Baltic Sea. USAF photo by A1C Duncan C. Bevan fighters were limited to minutes on the KC-135R Model and could offload KC-135 fleet will be replaced by the front lines because they did not have more fuel, was more fuel-efficient, KC-46A Pegasus, the first of which the capacity to carry large amounts had an increased operational range, was delivered in January 2019. of fuel, and their fuel consumption and cost less to operate than the was high. Having the tanker refuel previous engines. The R model has Oftentimes, it is the bombers and them frequently allowed them to stay a takeoff weight of 322,500 pounds, fighters that get all the glory, but let on the front lines for hours rather and depending on the fuel storage us not forget it is the tanker flying in than minutes. A total of 813,000 aerial configuration, could carry up to 83,000 the shadows that allows those aircraft refuelings of combat aircraft were pounds of cargo. to deliver their payloads on target made during the Vietnam War. Since and on time. This airborne gas station then, the tanker has been the backbone During the KC-135’s lifetime, it has has been in service for more than 60 of various conflicts, including transferred more than nine billion years and lingers in the skies 24 hours Operations Desert Shield and Desert pounds of fuel into more than 600,000 a day, seven days a week, waiting to Storm, the Persian , Northern aircraft, and it has remained mission- refuel the next thirsty aircraft at and Southern Watch, Iraqi Freedom capable due to the dedicated work of destinations all over the world. Its and Enduring Freedom, and other incredible maintenance and support service has been invaluable in missions supporting contingencies teams. Eventually, a portion of the sustaining Air Force capabilities. all over the world. This tanker has refueled just about every aircraft the U.S military has flown. Even NASA, the National Aeronautics and Space Administration, has used the KC-135 in the past for zero-gravity training, with the longest-serving aircraft (1973- 1995) named Weightless Wonder IV.

There have been many variants of the C-135, including the Rivet Joint and the EC-135 Looking Glass. Initially, the KC-135A model was equipped with Pratt and Whitney J57-P-59W turbojet engines, which produced approximately 10,000 lbf of thrust dry and 13,000 lbf of thrust wet. A B-52 Stratofortress prepares Eventually, most of the KC-135A to receive fuel from a KC-135 fleet received the upgraded CFM 56 Stratotanker during a flight in support of Operation Inherent high-bypass turbofan engine, which Resolve, July 27, 2017. produced 22,500 lbf of thrust. The USAF photo by SSgt Michael Battles modified tanker was designated the

10 The Mobility Forum FLIGHT SAFETY AOC: Seeing More Than One Side of the Air Force

BY MS. JENNIFER YATES, 618 AOC CHIEF OF SAFETY MSgt Diana Tamayo

he 618th Air Operations of the missions. She is very familiar operating hours at the airfields that Center (AOC) encompasses a with the outside coordinating agencies are sometimes not regularly used, wide range of responsibilities, and the details, complications, and Bird and Wildlife Aircraft Strike Tand carrying out those of the mission set. Now she windows, and aircraft responsibilities are personnel from an gets to see the mission set from the availability. She said, “this job is even broader range of career fields. planning side. She likes getting to see sometimes challenging, but also another part of the Air Force and how rewarding when you see the mission I recently had the pleasure of global air mobility operations work. accomplished, the users’ requirements interviewing MSgt Diana Tamayo and Tamayo went through the standard met, and know the crew has made it found her to be an excellent example 618 AOC training that all personnel back home safely.” of someone who has served in a wide and planners must attend, and then range of career fields and has assumed she received additional on-the-job Tamayo advises personnel consid- a broad range of responsibilities in training. She generally schedules ering new assignments to “take the 618 AOC. Tamayo works in our nine to 15 missions a month. She has advantage of opportunities, step Airlift Directorate (ALD), specifically learned the basic characteristics of outside of your career field, and do the special activities division, or the C-17 and C-5 aircraft, such as fuel something different.” ALDL. ALDL manages sorties planning, maximum takeoff weight, supporting national objectives and and the minimum runway length. From a planner’s perspective, she provides a full-spectrum global “Seeing the gray tail side has been would like to ask the aircrew “to reach at the U.S. Department of eye-opening,” she said. “Gray tail” is bear with us; the decisions we have Defense’s (DoD) largest AOC. This a reference to aircraft such as the C-5 to make on our end are dictated by division ensures that air mobility and C-17 that are currently painted a variety of things most aircrew[s] assets carry out national security gray versus the distinguished visitor do not know about. It is anything objectives for cabinet-level DoD, Joint aircraft that are generally painted blue from our users’ requirements to other Chiefs of Staff, and Headquarters and white. higher priority missions, etc. I know Air Force agencies. ALDL oversees how it is on the other end as far as the execution of compartmented Tamayo has also learned the details long flight duty periods and short airlift operations and implements and requirements of her new position, remain overnight times, so when I President of the United States and such as requesting diplomatic am planning a mission, I keep in my Secretary of Defense programs. clearances and Notices to Airmen and mind the users’ requirements and reviewing the Giant Report’s and the also possible concerns from the crew’s In 2018, the 618 AOC opened a highly Airfield Suitability and Restrictions point of view.” competitive planning position in the Report’s airfield planning documents. ALDL division. Tamayo is uniquely She uses Aviation Operational Risk Tamayo’s parting words are that she fitted for this division because of her Management for gauging risk and is “glad to have had the opportunity 10-year background as a U.S. Air Force provides assistance to the aircrew. to step away from the flight attendant flight attendant. As a flight attendant, Flexibility is often not possible due career field and see another side of the Tamayo experienced the aircrew side to users’ requirements and cargo, Air Force.”

Fall 2020 11 RISK MANAGEMENT ASAP | LOSA | MFOQA | CRM/TEM ASAPs – Why We Want Your Identity (But We Will Protect It)

BY MSGT DAN FALUCHO AND MSGT JAKE RENNELS, OPS RAMS ASAP STAFF

hen arise that need ASAPs are not a “get out of jail free” action or attention, or you card, but if the ASAP is the sole experience a situation from source of information, we have Wwhich others can learn, you covered—we protect your the Aviation/Airman Safety Action identity. This program affords Program (ASAP) provides a means submitters, regardless of their to identify issues for resolution or to raise awareness in the Mobility Air (AFSC), the ability to Force (MAF) community. ASAP is a report hazards or errors proactive safety program governed without fear of reprisal. by AFI 91-225, Safety Programs, and is based on a Just Culture approach. Unfortunately, This directive means that your ASAP approximately submission and any communication one-third of ASAP between you and our office cannot reports are submitted be used against you. Paragraph anonymously. This 1.2.3.3 states, “Data collected for or omission indicates to us that not analyses generated from aviation everyone is comfortable providing safety programs shall not be used to contact information in their ASAP initiate crew qualification downgrade, report. For that reason, we would take adverse personnel action, or like to discuss the difference between monitor personnel performance. (T-0). anonymity and identity protection, Prohibited actions include qualification as well as why we ask for your actions (e.g., decertification, or information and what we do with it. Q2 or Q3 evaluation ratings as When submitting an ASAP report, the defined by AFI 11-202V2, Aircrew instructions prompt you to provide Standardization and Evaluation your contact information. As long Program), administrative discipline as no injury or damage occurred, Submissions augment existing safety (e.g., Letter of Counseling, Reports of you are given the option to submit reporting programs by capturing Survey, Line of Duty Determination, or your ASAP report anonymously. AFI self-reported issues and events not Flight Evaluation Board), non-judicial 91-225 paragraph 3.1.1 guarantees normally disclosed through traditional punishment (e.g., Uniform Code of the protection of your identity if you mishap prevention programs.” Military Justice (UCMJ) Article 15 choose to provide it. It states, “ASAP action) or judicial action, except as is an identity-protected, self-reporting Identity protection is the guarantee that described in paragraph 1.2.3.4.” The program designed to encourage and no one outside of the ASAP program exceptions described in paragraph simplify the reporting of hazards will know who you are. When an 1.2.3.4 are a willful disregard for safety and errors that increase the risk ASAP report is submitted, it goes to or an intentionally false statement. experienced in flight operations. our ASAP team (the Operations Risk

12 The Mobility Forum RISK MANAGEMENT

Assessment and Management System The ability to contact a of the crew’s effectiveness for the [Ops RAMS] personnel assigned to mission. Without the ability to contact process the ASAPs) and is only visible submitter while protecting the submitter, we would not have been to them. From there, the ASAP is their identity is key able to find that issue and address triaged to redact any information that it with the AMC/Aviation Safety could be used to identify the crew, such to resolving concerns Division (SEF), the office of primary as date/time/location/mission, and raised in ASAP reports responsibility (OPR) for AvORM, while other determining details provided in protecting the identity of the submitter. the ASAP report. Usually, the location and allows us to provide is de-identified during triage in order constructive feedback to Another benefit of providing your to protect a submitter’s identity. A contact information is the ability to great example of this process is ASAP the submitter. provide you with details we cannot #14387, a report regarding a crew that post to the ASAP Scoreboard. AMC overshot a level-off in an aggressive has a memorandum of understanding descent. In this report, we de-identified (MOU) with the Federal Aviation the location of the event. providing their contact information, Administration (FAA) authorizing with the assurance that their identity us to share ASAP reports with their Conversely, ASAP #14365 is about will not be released unless given their air traffic controller (ATC) equivalent crew rest at Al Udeid Air Base (AB), concurrence. ASAP #14196 highlights program, known as the Air Traffic Qatar. In this case, the location was not a headlamp found in a C-130 fuel tank. Safety Action Program (ATSAP). de-identified because it is beneficial for In researching the report, our SMEs This information is still identity- other crews to be aware of potential crew needed details that were not provided protected and cannot be used by rest issues at Al Udeid AB as well as in the original ASAP. Unfortunately, the FAA to take any action (such as whether or not it is still a factor. In other the ASAP was submitted by “Donald a violation) against the crew. ASAP words, the only information visible is Duck,” whom we do not believe to be #14090 is an excellent example of that necessary to convey the purpose of a member of the C-130 community. this information sharing at work. the submission to the broader audience The ASAP addressed a significant A situation arose when instructions without compromising the identity of issue, but our ability to follow up issued by ATC may not have been the submitter. was hindered by the anonymity of clear and were misunderstood by the submission. In this case, we were the crew. We channeled the ASAP to After the ASAP is triaged and fortunate that the submitter reviewed the FAA ATSAP program to research de-identified, we send it to the the updates on the ASAP Scoreboard, on our behalf. The FAA provided applicable subject matter expert saw our request, and reached out to us both the radar and communications (SME) on the Air Mobility Command with more information. We were then recordings of the event. Our MOU (AMC) staff for comments and/ able to continue investigating the issue with the FAA only allows us to or a resolution; however, in many with additional information. share this information directly with cases more information is needed. the submitter. If the submitter had Frequently we get submissions that ASAP #13890 did include contact provided their contact information, we address significant issues but do not information. There was concern that would have forwarded the recordings provide all the information necessary back-to-back missions were not taken to them for their edification. to investigate the matter and find a into consideration in the Work/Rest resolution. In addition, sometimes Effectiveness model used in Aviation The ability to contact a submitter the submitter does not offer a detail Operational Risk Management while protecting their identity is key because they did not think it was (AvORM). Because we had contact to resolving concerns raised in ASAP pertinent. Other times, a submitter information, we were able to call the reports and allows us to provide concerned with identity protection submitter. Information not contained constructive feedback to the submitter. does not provide details that they in the original report, such as the ASAPs are a fantastic safety reporting believe can be used to identify them. mission number, was given to us. With tool for raising awareness, highlighting These omissions do not present a this information, Ops RAMS was able hazards that need to be addressed by problem if the submitter provides to research the issue and found that leadership, and allowing others to valid contact information to us. If the submitter’s missions were not learn from your shared experience via more information is needed, the Ops linked. Furthermore, we determined the ASAP Scoreboard at https://afsas. RAMS staff will contact the submitter, that if they had been, AvORM would safety.af.mil/events/AsapScoreboard. thanking them for the ASAP and for have produced a more realistic picture do?new_search=true.

Fall 2020 13 AMC NEWS Negatively Pressurized Conex: A Fast-Track Development for Transporting COVID-19 Patients

BY MR. TERENCE MULLIGAN, STAFF WRITER

n late March of this year, the spread was delivered for testing to Joint Base contract was awarded at the cost of of the highly contagious COVID-19 Charleston in South Carolina on April 21. approximately $2 million. virus challenged the entire world Ito mitigate what had become a The NPC is an isolated containment When the prototype arrived at Joint Base deadly global pandemic. Governments chamber that offers a much higher Charleston, rigorous testing of the NPC and public health experts ramped capacity for moving patients than began. The PEO ACS led teams from up measures to protect populations the existing Transportation Isolation across the country to verify that the NPC by instructing people on the value System, the only comparable resource met four prerequisites. The unit must of frequent handwashing, wearing available to the Air Force at the start of be able to contain the virus away from protective masks, and physical the pandemic. Air Mobility Command the aircrew and the rest of the aircraft, distancing. With the rapid surge in (AMC) teamed with the Air Force Life be usable for aeromedical teams, have confirmed cases of infection and Cycle Management Center (AFLCMC) the potential to be certified airworthy, the ensuing loss of life, health care to design and develop the NPC to fit and have the potential to fly safely. professionals faced overwhelming inside a C-17 Globemaster III and a According to Lt Col Paul Hendrickson, influxes of patients with limited C-5 Super Galaxy to transport up to 23 materiel leader within the AFLCMC supplies of hospital beds, , and ambulatory patients and as many as PEO ACS and NPC Lead, “All of these personal protective equipment. eight litters to medical facilities around assessments were pivotal to prove the the world, with room for medical capability and inform the production In response to the crisis, the United personnel onboard. units’ design, so [that] they will be States Transportation Command’s operational quickly. Procuring and (USTRANSCOM) Joint Urgent The NPC container is negatively demonstrating the NPC is a textbook Operational Need (JUON) issued a pressurized, with fans pulling air example of rapid acquisition and requirement on March 28 for high- from the unit through high-efficiency development. In just nine days, we have capacity transport of personnel infected particulate filters. According to Capt proved the NPC concept’s capabilities, with COVID-19. The urgency of the Alexis Todaro, NPC program manager, 21 days after contract award.” pandemic prompted an unprecedented “The goal of the NPC is to help us keep fast-track response. infectious organisms contained in order After testing was completed and a to prevent the aircrew and medical successful demonstration flight of The answer was the Negatively professionals onboard the aircraft from the NPC was accomplished on April Pressurized Conex (NPC), which was being exposed.” The NPC also includes 30, Gen Maryanne Miller, former made possible by a team comprised an anteroom where medical teams can Commander of AMC, with the of the Air Force Chemical, Biological, change into or out of their protective recommendation of PEO ACS, decided Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) equipment and safely exit the aircraft to proceed with procurement and full Defense Systems Branch working with without the risk of contamination. production of the NPC for Inter-Theater the Joint Program Executive Office Airlift on the C-17 and C-5 aircraft. A (JPEO) for CBRN Defense under the The design and construction of the NPC smaller variant, the NPC-Lite (NPCL), direction of the Program Executive prototype was a collaborative effort by was delivered on June 1 and ready for Office (PEO) for Agile Combat Support private sector companies UTS Systems, operations by June 25. (ACS) as the JUON lead for the AF. Highland Engineering, Inc., and Other collaborators included experts Delta Flight Products under an Other Keeping in mind that this rapid from academia, contract partners, and Transactional Authority (OTA) contract. development occurred during a global the Department of Defense (DoD). The contract award process, which pandemic, some of the game plan under normal circumstances could last involved unconventional approaches. The NPC rapidly evolved from this up to four months, was pinned down in “Helping a non-standard defense directive to a proven concept in less only seven days, and the first prototype contractor understand the stringent than 30 days. The first NPC prototype was delivered only 13 days after the requirements for airworthiness required

14 The Mobility Forum AMC NEWS an all-hands on deck and an outside-of- Providing an unrivaled mobility capability for the the-box teaming strategy,” said Robert David, Chief Engineer for the C-17 nation and our allies is the reason we come to work every day.” System Program Office (SPO). – Col Scott Ekstrom

Additionally, according to Dr. Casey Pirnstill, a biomedical engineer at tests of the smaller NPCLs were While on the ground, the 521st Air the Air Force Research Laboratory, planned for mid-June involving Mobility Operations Wing at Ramstein “We even had a local church donate three different C-130s. The NPC was AB was essential to the success due personal protective equipment and certified and delivered to Ramstein to their role in training the NPC hand sanitizer so the guys could work Air Base, Germany, on June 24. It was personnel, loading the system onto the in proximity to build the test fixtures.” accompanied by 16 experts from Joint C-17, and sanitizing the aircraft and Base Charleston, South Carolina and NPC for the next mission. With a team involving military and three members of the program office civilian personnel spread across the team to stand on alert status and train “Watching the team come together nation, modern communication tech- additional Airmen on the NPC. to train on this system in theater nologies helped keep the collaborative and then fly its first mission shows efforts in sync. “All of the coordination Less than a week later, the system what can be accomplished when and cooperation happened remotely was activated to move COVID-19 whole-of-government and industry through all tools for telework—text, patients. The NPC completed its first partners work selflessly, sacrificing call, email, telecon—because we operational mission on July 1, moving long hours and personal time in involved agencies from all across DoD. 12 patients from the U.S. Central order to produce a that saves Collaboration was essential to the rapid Command area of responsibility to lives,” said Capt Alexis Todaro, NPC success of NPC,” said Lt Col Tim Mach, Ramstein AB, to receive a higher level program manager who delivered AMC Chief of Requirements. of care at the Landstuhl Regional the NPC to Ramstein for training Medical Center. and site activation. “It took a team of “This was not how I expected to spend teams to get NPC from a concept to the month of May,” said Matt Kilmer This mission was demanding because operational in under 100 days.” from the C-130 Program Office. “But the it required the use of the brand new overwhelming commitment from both isolation system, multiple stops, and “Providing an unrivaled mobility the government and contractor teams critical care procedures. capability for the nation and our allies is has been amazing to watch. Because the reason we come to work every day,” these teams came together and worked “This was definitely not your typical said Col Scott Ekstrom, Senior Materiel diligently, we will be able to field this patient movement mission,” said Maj Leader for the C-17 Program Office. critical capability to the warfighter in an Benjamin Weaver, Bioenvironmental “The demand for urgent solutions amazing short period of time.” Engineer and 10th Expeditionary to current problems is constant. Aeromedical Evacuation Flight NPC Supporting an effort like the NPC/ Ten days of ground tests for the NPC Support Team Lead. “It was a long 22 NPCL development showcased our were scheduled for early June after hours for everyone involved, but the teams working together to rapidly affect an Operational Utility Evaluation NPC and team performed exceptionally the safety and security of our Airmen. I (OUE) C-17 flight. Additional ground well to make it happen.” could not be prouder of the team.”

Enroute Patient Staging personnel from the 86th Medical Group and Airmen assigned to the 313th Expeditionary Operations Support Squadron transfer a COVID-19 patient at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, July 1, 2020. The patient was airlifted to Ramstein in a Negatively Pressurized Conex, the latest isolated containment chamber, aboard a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft for movement to Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany. With its transport of 12 COVID-19 patients, this was the first operational use of the NPC. USAF photo by A1C John R. Wright

Fall 2020 15 AMC NEWS AMC Modernizes Battle Concepts to Move at the Speed of War

BY MS. KIM KNIGHT, STAFF WRITER “Where there is a tanker, there is a and Dyess AFB, TX, joined in mixed fighter, and nothing moves without a battle formation to receive the secure istory tells us that few great gray tail or a Civil Reserve Air Fleet information exchange. civilizations have had the asset. So we have to be connected into capability to maintain lasting the network, so we can be that link, Earlier this year, Dr. Will Roper, Hpeace. Over time, we have seen that sensor, and that JADC2 node,” Assistant Secretary of the Air Force for the mightiest empires challenged, and said Gen Maryanne Miller, former Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics, when all negotiating and reasoning Commander of AMC. discussed scenarios and domains for have been exhausted, there comes a the Advanced Battle Management time to protect and defend in battle. While JADC2 conceptually connects (ABMS) Onramp #2 that included With that in mind, the National and command and control, shooting down an unmanned aircraft Defense Strategy (NDS) states that we the Advanced Battle Management and a cruise missile employing ships, must deter threats and challenges from System (ABMS) is the technology submarines, ground troops, aircraft, our adversaries by strengthening our engine that powers it. From sensor and SpaceX satellites. ABMS defenses. Logically, an enemy will not and effects integration to secure is the glue connecting the right assets instigate a fight that they cannot win. processing, data, robust connectivity, across multiple contested domains and powerful apps, ABMS is the Air while leveraging AI to make swift, We know the odds are already in our Force’s investment to effective multi- well-informed decisions that will favor because Air Mobility Command domain operations. To test the concept enable commanders and troops to (AMC) has masterfully perfected and new technology, AMC conducted “move at the speed of war.” the art of Airlift, Aerial Refueling, an experiment on June 6, 2020, during Aeromedical Evacuation, and Global the U.S. Air Force Weapons School Air Mobility Support, and we do Joint Forcible Entry training, Nellis A formation of C-17 Globemaster IIIs from the not stand alone when preparing for AFB, NV. During the simulated threat, 62d Airlift Wing, 446th Airlift Wing, and Joint tomorrow’s highly competitive fight. 16 AMC C-17 Globemaster IIIs from Base Elmendorf-Richardson, AK, prepare to With the rapidly developing concept Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA; Joint take off from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, of Joint All-Domain Command and Base Charleston, SC; and Altus Air June 6, 2020. Control (JADC2), AMC and friendly Force Base (AFB), OK, and 19 C-130J USAF photo by A1C Mikayla Heineck forces will seamlessly unite to Hercules from Little Rock AFB, AR, overcome challenges from adversaries in all domains effectively.

16 The Mobility Forum AMC NEWS

“Right now, the C-17 offers very limited achieved. The experiment identified SSgt Mehmet Yasdiman, 1st Airlift Squadron imagery of the battle air space pilots strengths, but more importantly, Communications Systems Operator, and SSgt Richie Sounantha, Air Mobility Command enter,” said Maj Tyler Boyd, Chief of zeroed in on flaws or glitches in the Cyber Transport Systems Technician, test Wing Tactics, 62d Operations Squadron, matrix that needed improvement to a fixed installation satellite antenna (FISA) Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA. “DRC eliminate potential risks in a real- connection onboard a C-17 Globemaster III on [dynamic retasking capability] gives world situation. Joint Base Lewis-McChord, WA, June 5, 2020. them a live picture and connection to USAF photo by A1C Mikayla Heineck what is going on so they can see where Looking toward the future, all everybody else is, including threats and commands will see changes taking with the Combatant Commands. friendlies, and have better situational place as progress continues with “These on-ramps showcase the awareness overall.” JADC2. “Change is coming based on current state of each product line and the NDS for everyone, and AMC is drive their development faster while “The Mobility Air Forces have some no different,” said Rueter. “Our core always being grounded in solving unique qualities that can help ABMS missions will be the same, but having problems for the Joint Force and for product lines mature more quickly. But equipment onboard that enables the the Combatant Commanders,” said we have to do some foundational work rest of the joint force to do JADC2 is Rueter. “AMC has an experimentation first, and our experiment on 6 June was frankly an easy addition to what we plan that supports the ABMS on-ramps about putting a bit of that foundation are already doing.” at every opportunity and also weaves in place,” said Lt Col Bradley in our own experimentation similar Rueter, Chief of AMC Capability Additionally, the recent experiment to what we did on 6 June. This work Development, Scott AFB, IL. was the first of many on the horizon has recently piqued the interest for AMC. The Office of the Assistant of USTRANSCOM [United States Rueter, who orchestrated and directed Secretary of the Air Force for Transportation Command] as well, so I the experiment, stated the data sharing Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics imagine that we will start seeing more went exceptionally well, and all six has an aggressive ABMS on-ramp plan partnerships with USTRANSCOM on major experimentation points were every four months in coordination experimentation.”

Fall 2020 17 AMC NEWS

Personnel from the 43d Air Mobility Operations Group at Pope Army Airfield, NC, teamed up with others from , CA, and Joint Base Charleston, SC, to provide a Transport Isolation System for COVID-19 patients, which was the first time it was used with live patients. USAF photo by Maj Somvang Xayarath

he Air Force once again proved said she was pleased to see the AE that it is ready, willing, and team being recognized for utilizing able by utilizing their training the TIS during the COVID-19 Twhen the COVID-19 pandemic pandemic. Stevenson worked in AE in surfaced. Air Mobility Command Germany during the Ebola outbreak TRANSPORT helped save the day by making the when TIS was in development. Transport Isolation System (TIS) available and ready to transport According to Maj Elizabeth Persico, ISOLATION COVID-19 patients in response to Flight Nurse, 43 AES, the TIS was official requests for support. The first developed in 2015 to transport Department of Defense developed Ebola patients; however, the SYSTEM the TIS, which is an infectious disease COVID-19 pandemic is the first time containment unit that allows a limited that it was used for live patients. CONTRIBUTES TO number of infected patients to receive The TIS is a negative medical care in-flight and minimizes isolation module that can transport the risk of infection for medical up to five patients in one module, SAVING attendants, aircrew, and the aircraft. and, because two TIS modules will fit on the C17, one is installed in the On Monday, March 23, 2020, the 43d forward right side and one in the aft THE DAY Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron left side, said Persico. (AES) and Detachment (Det) deployed a 46-member team to Joint Base During the mission, team members DURING Charleston, SC. The team included were required to wear N95 masks 36 aircrew, eight Aeromedical until the TIS was zipped up, and Evacuation Operations Team (AEOT) then continue to wear them until COVID-19 members, and two Radio Frequency they were 40 minutes into the Transmission members. Three of flight, according to TSgt Chelsea the AE Ops Team members were Rittenhouse, Aeromedical Evacuation PANDEMIC selected to be TIS instructors for 56 Technician, 43 AES. As the Charge courses encompassing 287 medical Medical Technician, Rittenhouse was BY MS. KATHY ALWARD, trainees. Col Bonnie Stevenson, responsible for timing how long the STAFF WRITER the Commander of the 43 AES, mask needed to be worn.

18 The Mobility Forum AMC NEWS

Maj Elizabeth Persico (left) and TSgt Chelsea Rittenhouse (right), 43d Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron (AES) deployed during the coronavirus response while their squadron was Airmen prepare to offload COVID-19 patients inactivated at Pope Army Airfield, NC, during the first-ever operational use of the and many of their teammates were Transport Isolation System at Ramstein Air relocating to the 60 AES at Travis Air Base, Germany, April 10, 2020. Force Base, CA. USAF photo by SSgt Devin Nothstine USAF photo by Maj Somvang Xayarath

“Everyone was very cautious, and her, but this mission had required a be flexible. Persico served as the we just basically stuck to our concept considerable amount of coordination Medical Crew Director (MCD) and of operation and made sure we were because it was new and unknown to primarily managed the AE crew. going step by step anytime anyone them. They were only able to practice a As part of her duties, she also had to enter or exit the TIS,” said few times before being deployed on this coordinated with the doctors and Rittenhouse. Only the team members mission, whereas they frequently train other teams and complimented who had to be directly involved with for their standard AE missions. “So this everyone on the quality of their the patients entered the TIS, according [mission] was just very different, but services. “Everybody was cool, to Rittenhouse. She emphasized that in the end, I think having the amount calm, and collected the whole time, the TIS reduced the team’s concern of of people that we do on the teams and and we really bonded together as a being exposed to COVID-19, knowing the different kinds of expertise, [and team, and that really improved our that as long as it worked correctly the fact] that literally everyone had a performance. We had to get out there and nothing was breached during the vital role to play, helped a lot,” said and do the job,” said Persico. flight, the likelihood of being infected Rittenhouse. Rittenhouse emphasized was very minimal. that typically in AE there is a separation According to Stevenson, not only do between the AE crew and the Critical team members have to be flexible, Persico emphasized that having Care Air Transport Team (CCATT) but they also have to be physically fit some experts on board for direction members.When flying missions because they will be required to lift and guidance, mixed with their together, the AE crew usually focuses heavy objects and patients. They have training, made the team feel safer on their patients, while the CCATT to be mission-ready and prepared to and more confident about working crew is focusing on their own patients; deploy in a moment’s notice. with patients infected with the however, on this mission, the two crews virus. Persico emphasized that their had the opportunity to work together as Stevenson said she loved this AE team was well-informed on the full one team to provide medical care to all mission. “It is just so unique, and range of research being conducted the patients. According to Rittenhouse, you feel so close to the big Air Force on COVID-19. She added that she it was rewarding to see our AE team Mission doing AE and bringing trusted the doctors completely and combine with members that made people’s loved ones home to higher felt confident that they were staying up the the CCATT, TIS support, and levels of care. It is very rewarding.” abreast of the latest information. Infectious Disease teams. Stevenson said she truly appreciates the TIS team and how they work so Rittenhouse noted that she had been One lesson that Persico learned diligently to do everything they can to on numerous missions that humbled was that team members need to stay mission ready.

Fall 2020 19 MOBILITY OPERATIONS

Global Reach and Operation El Dorado Canyon— The 1986 Strike on Libya

BY MR. TERENCE MULLIGAN, STAFF WRITER

e are all familiar with England, to fly the F-111F. The aircraft, and the 11th Strategic Group, RAF Global Reach as one of three despite some reliability issues, was Fairford, United Kingdom. Most of the core precepts of the modern optimal for long-range nighttime tanker crews did not know the mission WU.S. Air Force (USAF), in precision-strike missions and is capable targets until their arrival. As plans tandem with Global Vigilance and of flying as low as 200 feet above the finalized, the mission evolved into a Global Power. We have seen some ground. Additionally, its Pave Tack grueling 6,400-mile round-trip flight remarkable examples of our Global infrared laser-targeting system could spanning approximately 13 hours, Reach capabilities in recent decades. identify and guide ordnance to the with each aircraft requiring eight to 12 One of the most notable was during designated targets. Initial plans for a in-flight refuelings. In contrast, at the Operation Odyssey Dawn in 2011, Libyan raid had been in development time, a typical NATO F-111 sortie only when three B-2s flew from Whiteman since the previous December, but took approximately two hours. Air Force Base, MO, to drop bombs on global politics forced a drastic last- a Libyan airfield, refueled by tankers minute change to the mission. On Monday, April 14, 1986, the tankers four times during each round-trip launched at 5:13 p.m., GMT, followed mission. Similar long-distance sorties Although British Prime Minister by the F-111Fs and EF-111s 23 minutes were also conducted during the Margaret Thatcher granted the United later. They flew and refueled in radio Yugoslavia air campaign in 1999. States permission to fly out of air bases silence, which was not an easy task in England, both France and Spain for the crew on a long-distance night An earlier precedent for Global Reach refused to allow American aircraft mission. According to one of the pilots, worth reexamining existed long to fly over their territory for the James A. Jimenez: before the debut of the B-2 “Stealth mission. This lack of support forced Bomber,” however. While that famous our crews to travel south, around the “I was probably the most junior aircraft was still in development Strait of Gibraltar, then east along the pilot chosen for the mission. I in the 1980s, the United States and Mediterranean Sea, adding roughly had never flown below 400 feet our western allies faced an ongoing 2,600 miles to the round-trip flight. at night; our mission called for a threat of global terrorism, much of it run to the target at 200 feet—and sponsored by Muammar Qadhafi’s EF-111A Ravens from the 42d 700 mph. I had never dropped Libya. Between 1981 and 1986, at least Electronic Combat Squadron, based at 300 Americans had been killed, with Royal Air Force (RAF) Upper Heyford, hundreds more injured, in a variety accompanied the F-111Fs to help the of attacks worldwide. On April 5, Sixth Fleet’s Marine EA-6B Prowlers 1986, a bombing at the LaBelle Club, jam enemy radar systems. Also, at the a discotheque frequented by U.S. last minute, the number of F-111s was Servicemen, was directly linked to increased from six to 18. The 48th TFW Qadhafi, giving President Ronald could not make the round-trip sorties Reagan the evidence he needed to without multiple refuelings along justify an armed response. The result the way, so several KC-10 refueling was Operation El Dorado Canyon. tankers were utilized from bases in Louisiana, California, and North For Operation El Dorado Canyon, Carolina. The KC-10s were, in turn, James A. Jimenez USAF planners opted to task the 48th refueled by KC-135s assigned to the Photo courtesy of the Smithsonian Tactical Fighter Wing (TFW), based in 300th Strategic Wing, RAF Mildenhall, National Air and Space Museum

20 The Mobility Forum MOBILITY OPERATIONS

An F-111F Aardvark from the 495th Tactical Fighter Squadron prepares to launch in support of Operation El Dorado Canyon at Royal Air Force Lakenheath, England, April 14, 1986.

live ordnance; my jet was armed Operation El Dorado Ribas-Dominicci and Paul F. Lorence. with four 2,000-pound laser- Considerable damage was inflicted on guided bombs. My previous Canyon proved to America the Libyan targets, with an estimated longest mission had been 4.5 and the world at large that 40 fatalities. hours; the planned route around Spain and back would take the U.S. Air Force could Air Mobility Command currently more than 13 [hours]. Moreover, carry out precision strikes manages more than 400 KC-135 I had never air-refueled from Stratotankers, which proved essential a KC-10 tanker, air-refueled against targets thousands to the operation. This early example of under radio silence, or ejected of miles away. the Air Force’s “Global Reach” maxim, chaff or flares [countermeasures however, was performed more than a to foil radar-guided and decade before the first operational B-2 heat-seeking missiles].” F-111s hit the Tripoli military airport. stealth fighters. Operation El Dorado Although the mission was deemed Canyon proved to America and the As the aircraft approached Libya, the a success overall, there were many world at large that the U.S. Air Force mission was supported by two U.S. complications. Seven F-111s missed could carry out precision strikes against Navy aircraft carriers, the USS Coral their targets, and six encountered targets thousands of miles away. Some Sea and the USS America, which mechanical problems or decided not to of the technical and logistical problems launched 14 A-6E strike aircraft and 12 fire due to strict rules of engagement with the mission were later remediated, F/A-18 and A-7 strike support aircraft. and the risk of civilian casualties. and the F-111’s Pave Tack targeting After the long flight, 13 of the F-111s Only one aircraft, an F-111 dubbed system proved to be successful five struck the Aziziyah barracks in Tripoli “Karma-52,” was shot down by Libyan years later, hitting more targets than and the nearby Sidi Bilal terrorist forces over the Gulf of Sidra, killing any other aircraft during Operation training camp. An additional five two Air Force Captains: Fernando L. Desert Storm in 1991.

Fall 2020 21 HEALTH AND FITNESS

The Ups and Downs of

BY LT COL KARL WOODMANSEY, Barodontalgia TEXAS AIR NATIONAL GUARD

magine that as your aircraft begins pain may be severe enough to cause and dental care—the current in-flight to descend, you experience a severe, premature cessation of flights. barodontalgia incidence is similar to sharp pain localized in one of your the incidence in the first half of the Iteeth. Such intense pain may distract INCIDENCE 20th century. your focus from the critical details of Extensive studies have been conducted your flight and may impair your ability on military personnel in aircraft, One of the first published reports of to accomplish your mission safely. submarine conditions, and hypobaric barodontalgia was in 1937, involving and hyperbaric chambers. These a tooth that became painful at Painless teeth can become painful studies have shown barodontalgia to 6,100 feet and required root canal with changes in barometric pressure, be a very rare condition, with reported treatment. Barodontalgia has been cabin pressure, or altitude. Airline incidence rates between 0.26 percent reported in flights with changes in passengers typically “pop” their ears and 2.63 percent. During their careers, elevation (and ) to equalize the pressure between their however, barodontalgia is reported of as little as 3,000 feet, and, in one middle ear space and the airplane’s to affect 11.9 percent of divers and report, an individual experienced cabin pressure; however, no similar 11 percent of military aircrews. This barodontalgia when crossing a 4,000- means exist to equalize the pressure percentage translates to a rate of one to foot pass in an automobile. between the atmosphere and diseased two episodes per 200 flight-years. tooth pulp. The term for this “tooth- CABIN PRESSURE squeeze” pain caused by a change in During World War II, approximately Commercial aircraft cabin pressures atmospheric pressure is barodontalgia. 10 percent of American Airmen vary depending on specific aircraft experienced one or more episodes of and flight elevation. They are limited, Barodontalgia is defined as tooth pain barodontalgia. Overall, barodontalgia however, by Federal Aviation caused by an increase or decrease in prevalence ranged between 0.7 percent . This condition has and 2 percent in the 1940s, and 0.3 been reported since the dawn of both percent in the 1960s. Similarly, 0.3 PRACTICAL flight and undersea exploration but percent of cases of barodontalgia CONSIDERATIONS is rarely reported and remains poorly were reported in high altitude- • The risk of barodontalgia is very low understood. The most common victims chamber simulations in the Luftwaffe, • Patients who experience extreme are scuba divers because, in deep which was Germany’s Air Force atmospheric pressures are at dives, pressures can increase by several during World War II. In one recent higher risk atmospheres (a unit of measure equal (2010) study, however, 8.2 percent to the average air pressure at sea level of 331 Israeli Air Force aircrews • Healthy teeth have essentially no risk of barodontalgia at 59 degrees Fahrenheit), and military reported at least one episode of flight crews because of rapid pressure barodontalgia. Surprisingly, despite • Always rule out referred sinus pain changes. In Airmen, barodontalgia advances in aircraft pressurization

22 The Mobility Forum HEALTH AND FITNESS

1.5 BAR Maintaining optimal oral health is the surest method to reduce the risk of barodontalgia. 2 BAR requirements appear necessary for sinus disease. According to one barodontalgia: (1) the ambient pressure study, this referred pain may occur must exceed a threshold equivalent in as frequently as 18.5 percent of to approximately 3,000 feet (or more) Airmen reporting barodontalgia-type of elevation change; and (2) the teeth symptoms. This misconception can be must have some degree of pre-existing explained by the fact that upper teeth dental disease. are adjacent to the sinuses and share a nerve pathway to the brain. Boyle’s law explains the inverse relationship between gaseous pressure HOW CAN BARODONTALGIA and volume with the formula P1/ BE PREVENTED? V1 = P2/V2. Gases expand when Maintaining optimal oral health is ambient pressure decreases (as it does the surest method to reduce the risk Administration regulations not to with increased elevation). Conversely, of barodontalgia. Because nearly all exceed levels equal to an atmospheric gaseous volumes shrink when dental disease is preventable, Airmen pressure of 8,000 feet. Consequently, ambient pressure increases. Similar are encouraged to maintain their oral cabin pressure in commercial aircraft to a barometer, the pulp space inside health with a healthy diet, regular is commonly maintained at levels a tooth reacts to pressure changes. brushing and flossing, and routine equal to atmospheric pressure at As atmospheric pressures change, professional oral health care. The Air 3,000 to 8,000 feet. For example, the the pressure inside the hollow pulp Force Dental Corps is responsible Airbus A380’s cabin altitude at 43,000 space within the tooth may not be able for ensuring the dental health of all feet is equal to 5,000 feet atmospheric to equalize pressure. This pressure Airmen, including aircrew members. pressure; the Boeing 767’s, is equal differential can then trigger the nerves Members with disqualifying dental to 6,900 feet atmospheric pressure to feel toothache-type pain. diseases are profiled as “Class 3” and when cruising at 39,000 feet; and may be restricted from flying. The goal the Bombardier Global Express Changes in barometric pressure do of such classifications is not punitive, business jet pressurizes to 4,500 feet not cause dental disease. The pressure but rather to safeguard the Airman, his atmospheric pressure when cruising at changes can provoke a previously or her crew members, and his or her 41,000 feet. asymptomatic diseased tooth to aircraft from the risk of barodontalgia. become symptomatic, however. Because military aircraft have different Therefore, barodontalgia is merely a Aircrew members need to be able to needs than commercial aviation, symptom of dental disease. The most safely concentrate on their mission aircraft pressurizations vary greatly common causative dental problems without the distraction of the nagging depending on aircraft and mission. For are tooth decay, a defective filling, an pain of a toothache. Although example, the C-130 flight station and abscessed tooth, gum disease, or an barodontalgia is rarely reported, cargo compartment can be pressurized impacted tooth. aircrews should be aware of this to maintain a cabin pressure-altitude condition and maintain their teeth in of 5,000 feet at an aircraft altitude of In some cases, the perceived tooth optimal health to reduce the risk of 28,000 feet, and cabin pain may be referred pain from such distractingly painful incidents. altitudes can exceed 10,000 feet.

WHAT CAUSES AT-RISK POPULATIONS BARODONTALGIA? • Military and civilian pilots, flight crews, and passengers (even parachutists), To date, a specific mechanism including aeromedical transport aircrews and patients has not been identified to explain precisely how pressure changes • Divers and submariners cause barodontalgia pain. Based on • Hyperbaric/hypobaric chamber patients published literature, however, two

Fall 2020 23 AMC HERITAGE Broken Arrow: Titan II Missile Complex 374-7

BY MS. KIM KNIGHT, STAFF WRITER

old War tensions sparked in 1947 between Stalin’s Soviet Union and the United States following Cthe end of WWII. By 1980, fear of nuclear war gripped the nation as the global superpowers tensely vied for supremacy. In great haste, the adversaries stockpiled nuclear weapons and braced for the worst.

At that time, the (SAC) had 54 Titan II intercontinental ballistic missiles loaded with nine megaton W-53 nuclear warheads. To put the magnitude of one nine-megaton blast in perspective, if the warhead was detonated it would have been the equivalent of three times the power of all the explosives used throughout WWII, including the nuclear bombs dropped on Hiroshima and Nagasaki. A Titan II missile could also be launched from a silo in less than 60 seconds, which further added to the ferocity of this weapon of mass destruction.

The 308th Strategic Missile Wing, Little Rock Air Force Base, AR, which Titan II ICBM in an underground complex. fell under the direction of SAC, was The missiles were based out of Davis- Monthan AFB, AZ; McConnell AFB, KS; responsible for 18 Titan II Strategic and Little Rock AFB, AR. All Titan IIs Missile sites dispersed across the state were decommissioned by June 1987. and discreetly camouflaged amongst Photo by Steve Jurvetson the wooded terrain.

24 The Mobility Forum AMCAMC HERITAGEPRIORITY

The seemingly insignificant deviation from a mandated tool set a disastrous series of events in motion.

On the evening of September 18, 1980, as they scrambled to find a solution into the air. It landed close to the two young Airmen from the Propellant for the rapidly deteriorating situation. complex gate but did not detonate Transfer System (PTS) team arrived Desperate calls for guidance and due to a safety feature. at the Titan II Missile Complex 374-7, direction went out to leadership and outside of Damascus, AR, to conduct a weapons experts across the country. More than 20 individuals were routine pressure check on the oxidizer transported for medical care with tank. Once the Airmen entered highly Stabilizing the 8-story missile to stop various injuries from the blast. secure codes to gain access to the silo a collapse was the prime concern Kennedy endured severe burns and and had descended several flights of because the aerozine 50 from the respiratory problems from inhaling stairs to the worksite, they realized bottom tank had leaked out. This toxic fumes in the silo, but he survived. that the newly mandated torque catastrophe left the massive weight Livingston suffered fatal injuries, wrench needed for the maintenance of the upper tank full of dinitrogen and enroute to the hospital, he said, was still in the truck at ground level. tetroxide and the W-53 Nuclear “Please, don’t tell my mom.” Her Instead of making the trek back Warhead unsupported. If the missile pain lasted far beyond the morning of to the truck to retrieve the correct collapsed and the fuels made contact, September 19 when her only son took tool, one of the Airmen grabbed a they would spontaneously ignite. his last breath. ratchet with an 8-pound socket that he knew would complete the task. The missile complex was evacuated, Forty years after the incident, the Unfortunately, the heavy socket but the PTS team bravely stayed, Airman who mistakenly dropped the slipped off the ratchet, and the two knowing that at any minute, if the socket stated he has replayed the events Airmen watched in horror as it fell 80 warhead detonated, everything living of that night over and over in his head, feet, bounced off the missile platform, within 20 miles of the site would every single day. Sadly, the perpetual and struck the side of the missile. The perish. Selflessly trying to save others, loop has offered no atonement. force punched a hole in the side of they worked on and at 3:00 a.m. were the missile, which caused a deadly given orders to reenter the silo to turn The next time you reach for a tool to cloud of aerozine 50 fuel to leak out. on the exhaust fan. SrA David Lee perform your work duty, think about Livingston and Sgt Jeff K. Kennedy the Airmen in Missile Complex 374-7 The seemingly insignificant deviation entered the silo, and shortly after, the and know that you can potentially from a mandated tool set a disastrous aerozine 50 exploded, sending the prevent a deadly series of unfortunate series of events in motion. In a short 740-ton silo door flying. This blast events simply by adhering to time, warning signals in the control was followed by another explosion mandated guidance. room sounded, but there was no from the tank of dinitrogen tetroxide, available to aid the Airmen which catapulted the W-53 warhead

Fall 2020 25 MOBILITY OPERATIONS

Full Spectrum Readiness: Aerial Refueling

BY MS. BETTY NYLUND BARR, STAFF WRITER

ull Spectrum Readiness is para-drogue or basket), which is a integral to the continuing fitting attached at its narrow end with objectives of the Air Force. It a valve to a flexible hose. The drogue Fis woven through keeps the hose secure and serves as a the training and funnel as it eases the insertion of the preparation of probe from the receiver aircraft into Airmen who fly the hose. the humanitarian and Total Force The flying boom can make fuel transfer contingency missions faster; however, this method requires of the Air Mobility a dedicated boom operator. The Command (AMC). Merriam Webster Dictionary describes a flying boom as “a rigid fuel pipe Full Spectrum Readiness requires the range of military aircraft by flexibly joined to the tail of a tanker improving the equipment and tactics refueling them from tanker aircraft in airplane and fitted at its after end with used to meet the complex threats being air.” Also called air-to-air refueling, airfoils, which are controllable from developed and proliferated among in-flight refueling, tanking, and air the tanker and which permit it to be potential adversaries. In simple terms, refueling, it enables the global reach guided into contact with an airplane it describes the intricate mindset that is so critical to U.S. warfighting being refueled in flight.” The boom and processes that go into preparing and AMC’s humanitarian and military operator guides the fuel pipe, which is Airmen for their essential and often support functions. flexibly joined to the tail of the tanker perilous missions. airplane, to the receiving aircraft. For those who are unfamiliar with the The missions that Airmen undertake process, the fueling tanker flies above From the first air-to-air refueling in sometimes take them beyond the and ahead of the receiving aircraft. 1923, and despite some mishaps, capacity of their aircraft’s fuel tanks. It then transfers fuel using either air refueling remained a goal worth Aerial refueling provides the vital the probe-and-drogue or the flying achieving. In the early years, the link to the next phase of their journey, boom methods. The advantage of U.S. Army did not consider the giving them the capability to reach the probe-and-drogue method is that project worth funding, so private and both military personnel and civilians connecting to the receiving aircraft commercial pilots continued to refine who need them in foreign lands. is less complicated than using the the process. Twelve years after that boom method. It uses a flexible hose, first air refueling, which enabled a The Free Dictionary defines aerial or probe, that trails from the tanker plane to stay in flight for six hours, 38 refueling as “A method of extending aircraft to the drogue (also called a minutes, air refueling had progressed

26 The Mobility Forum MOBILITY OPERATIONS

Air refueling extends the reach of today’s warfighters and humanitarian missions, thereby enriching the meaning of Full Spectrum Readiness.

An F-16 flown by Maj Spencer Bell, 40th Flight Test Squadron test pilot, receives fuel from a KC-46 Pegasus during a flutter mission at Eglin AFB, FL, Dec. 12, 2019. USAF photo by TSgt John Raven

to the point that a Curtiss Robin i Air refueling was crucial during allied interests in Europe and aircraft was able to stay in the air for the war in Vietnam. The distance North Africa. “The air bridge 653 hours, 34 minutes! of 7,100 nautical miles from Travis our planners and tanker crews Air Force Base (AFB), CA, to create enable U.S. and allied Pilots in the United States were not Andersen AFB, Guam, and then strike aircraft to continuously hit the only ones who were interested 2,251 nautical miles farther to Daesh, or any enemy, no matter in aerial refueling. Whereas the U.S. Saigon, South Vietnam, required where they hide,” said then pilots’ goal was to increase the length all aircraft flying that route to be Brig Gen Lenny Richoux, 18th of time aircraft could remain aloft, refueled in the air. Air Force Vice Commander. British pilots wanted to reduce the weight of fuel so the aircraft could i In 2016, the 618th Air Operations Air refueling extends the reach of carry more bombs. Center scheduled an air refueling today’s warfighters and humanitarian to enable an emergency response missions, thereby enriching the Today’s U.S. warfighters and team to fly nonstop from Moody meaning of Full Spectrum Readiness. humanitarian mission crews rely AFB in Georgia to rescue the crew As an extended hand is a welcome primarily on two aircraft for refueling: of a Taiwanese fishing boat that assist to someone who cannot quite the reliable KC-135 Stratotanker and had caught fire approximately step over a stream, air refueling crews the KC-10 Extender, which have 500 miles southeast of Bermuda. extend a helping hand to aircraft been in use since 1957 and 1981, “Air refueling extended the range that cannot quite make it to their respectively. The KC-135 holds 100 and loiter time of the HC-130J destination. Former AMC Command tons of fuel, whereas the KC-10 (containing the rescue team) and CMSgt Shelina Frey proudly stated, holds 178 tons of fuel. Both aircraft prevented delays that would “From providing air refueling use either probe-and-drogue or a occur in a ground refueling,” operations that enabled Air Force flying boom to deliver fuel. The new said Lt Col James R. Woosely, bombers to fly around the world KC-46A Pegasus Tanker is expected Air Force Rescue Coordination in support of Operation Inherent to eventually replace the KC-10 and Center Commander. Resolve; to the first Exercise Mobility some of the KC-135s. The KC-46 holds Guardian; to airlifting humanitarian 106 tons of fuel and uses either wing i In 2017, tanker crews from aid to Hurricane Maria survivors in air refueling pods and a centerline five bases on three continents Puerto Rico; to providing aeromedical drogue system to deliver fuel. provided aerial refueling for evacuation for wounded service bombers in Libya who were members serving in Afghanistan— The following are examples of targeting two Daesh training Mobility Airmen delivered!” missions that were made possible by camps. These camps trained air refueling: enemy troops to attack U.S. and They did—and do—indeed.

Fall 2020 27 FLIGHT SAFETY

Aircraft Commander: Major Taylor J. Zahm Combined Experience and Copilot: Joseph Knutson Boom Operator: A1C Riley Noel

Training Allowed KC-135 n March 4, 2020, my crew and I arrived at our KC-135R, Crew to Work Through In- an aerial refueling tanker, at OIncirlik Air Base in Turkey. As the aircraft commander, I was on my Flight Issues and Land Safely seventh deployment and was an instructor/evaluator, the copilot was on his third deployment, and the boom operator was on his first. We BY MAJ TAYLOR ZAHM, checked the aircraft forms, performed 22D EXPEDITIONARY AIR REFUELING SQUADRON applicable , and took off with zero issues—a good day! For most of our sorties we delivered approximately 150,000 pounds of fuel to our receivers and then flew back home with fuel to spare. Some aircraft can carry 300,000 pounds of fuel and some can carry only 10,000, but for the KC-135 that was a fairly heavy

A KC-135R Stratotanker from the 151st Air Refueling Squadron, Tyson Air National Guard Base, TN flies off the wing of another during a “two ship” training mission on May 23, 2019. USAF photo by SMSgt Kendra Owenby

28 The Mobility Forum FLIGHT SAFETY

load. A fuel panel for the 10 tanks on the aircraft manages their center of If I were to change anything about this incident, gravity, defines where the engines it would be to design an emergency checklist are burning fuel and from where it is being offloaded, and the equality to address this situation. of the wing tanks. The crew can also move some of the fuel around using this panel. and then returned. We were about 30 (we started at 14,000 pounds). Then minutes into our flight, and I realized the other KC-135 called back and We reached our assigned altitude that the total fuel quantity had not referenced an emergency checklist and began routine level-off checks— moved since the button became stuck. that discussed a fuel panel button hydraulic and oxygen quantities I checked the tank quantity reading becoming stuck in the closed and pressures, electrical and engine on one of the Control and Display position, advising that we “land as systems, and moving or burning fuel Units (CDU) and saw that none of the soon as possible.” from different tanks. Proceeding to fuel panel indicators were correct. a predesignated waypoint, I started The fuel panel and the CDU told a drain from two of the main wing The main fuel tank, primarily for us we were still draining fuel. I tanks to prepare for our upcoming feeding fuel into the number 1 suggested we fill the aft body tank refueling. I pressed the drain button engine, was stuck in the draining to prevent the number 1 tank from for the number 4 right wing tank position, a fuel imbalance had draining beyond a point where we to move fuel to the aft body tank developed between the left and right could not keep enough fuel in the so we could offload that fuel to wing, and a fuel panel was showing tank for the engine to burn. The our receivers. The button indicator us incorrect readings. We were copilot announced the maximum light went from “closed” to “open,” traveling approximately 6.5 miles per amount the aft body tank could be and the fuel started decreasing in minute on an airplane that weighs filled to, and we decided to open all that tank and increasing in the aft about 270,000 pounds. So we did the tanks from the wings to drain body tank. I then pressed the drain what every system simulator, table- aft into that tank. This procedure button for the number 1 tank to do top quiz, and would hopefully fill up the aft body the same, but nothing happened. years of experience had taught us— tank faster than it could deplete the Confused, I pressed the button again we let our training take over. number 1 tank. After a few tense with the same result. Finally, I slowly minutes of watching the number 1 pressed the button to ensure it went We started draining the working tank trickle down to 1,800 pounds, from “closed” to “drain.” The button number 4 tank so the airplane could it stopped! The wing tanks on the proceeded about a quarter of an inch fly straight. The boom operator KC-135 are designed so you can only past the point where it was supposed checked the flight manual for any drain down to approximately 300 to stop, and then all the light emergency procedure we could gallons (about 2,000 pounds of fuel), indications vanished. I grabbed the reference. The copilot grabbed a and the aft body tank could only fill button with my fingers and brought multi-tool to try to pry the button up to around 42,700 pounds. When it back out to where it should back up while I flew the aircraft, the drain from number 1 stopped, normally rest, and it lit up again in and I made a quick radio call back the aft body tank was reading 42,700 the “closed” position. I then stopped to our deployed unit. I could not pounds. Now we needed to keep the fuel drain from the number 4 reach the operations center, but I positive fuel pressure into tank tank, which had still been draining, reached another KC-135 that was number 1 from that same aft body but only for about 45 seconds, and 20 minutes behind us, and they also tank to make sure the engine did not there was not a significant difference checked the flight manual to see what burn the rest of the 1,800 pounds it in fuel values yet. we could do. The copilot took the had left. We did not have long if we aircraft back and flew as steadily as could not keep fuel from the other I tried again to drain fuel from he could. I compared the frozen fuel tanks feeding the number 1 engine. the number 1 tank, but the button panel to the CDU—the fuel panel stopped about a half inch beyond was still lying to us and the CDU was We had stopped the drain from our where it should have. The fuel panel showing the number 1 and number number 1 tank, filled the aft body indicators blinked, vanished, reset, 4 tanks draining past 7,000 pounds tank, kept our center of gravity in a

Fall 2020 29 FLIGHT SAFETY

A KC-135 conducts a fly-by during the 100th Centennial Celebration Air Show, June 10, 2017, at Scott Air Force Base, IL. USAF photo by TSgt Jonathan Fowler good landing position, and maintained fuel balance between each wing. We had left the fuel in the reserve tanks. want to be the guinea pigs for a new Approaching home, we were able emergency checklist! to contact our operations center. We The other thing I would change is to proceeded to an established gross Our brief descent was met with calm reiterate clearly that the main wing weight adjustment zone to offload fuel winds, high visibility, and a very tanks will drain to approximately 300 to a level that would not overstress stable aircraft due to it being so heavy. gallons, and the rest will remain for the landing gear upon return. This We made our approach and stopped airplane use. I could only find that zone was close to our deployed home well within the total landing distance information after searching three station, so we would already be on the the Take Off and Landing Data different technical documents, and radio with the controller to be vectored (TOLD) had provided us. We pulled even that was buried within a system for a short approach and landing. clear of the runway and called for diagram note. I suggest putting that the fire trucks to check for structural information in a new checklist or The boom operator prepared for the damage, leaking fuel, or brakes that within the fuel emergency checklist I fuel dumping, but with the faulty fuel were on fire. The landing gear started referenced most during the event. panel, which pumps worked? Which to produce smoke, and the on-scene drains worked? Which manifold fire chief directed a crew evacuation. The best thing about an aircraft like valves worked? Could we even adjust We ran the applicable checklists, the KC-135 is the crew. I credit our gross weight? We decided that we did grabbed our personal and mission successful recovery of an undamaged not have time to find out. We declared bags, and drove to maintenance to KC-135 (other than the fuel panel and an emergency to ensure that we give them the bad news. the brakes) to our ability to combine were placed on a priority status. We our experience and training and apply informed our home station air traffic If I were to change anything about it to a situation that does not have any controller that we would need a vector this incident, it would be to design an emergency checklists to reference. It for home in roughly five minutes. emergency checklist to address this could have ended much worse—the We discussed the eccentric details situation. The actions we took got us engine could have flamed out, we of landing a KC-135 this heavy— home, but were they the correct ones? could have had wings that were 14,000 approach speeds, landing distances, We kept the engines running, used pounds different in weight, or we fuel panel configuration, landing snippets from other checklists, applied could have snapped the landing gear. techniques, how quickly we would common aircraft systems knowledge, Thankfully, none of that happened. I need to brake to stop our momentum, and called on anyone with experience guess that is because we train so hard and how hot the brakes would get. to help. I am eager to learn if there for these situations. Everything else We tried to cover every scenario. All was something we could have done falls away and you are left with your we did know was that we did not differently to be more effective. training and your crew.

30 The Mobility Forum SAFETY CULTURE

Ready for the Unexpected BY MS. KIM KNIGHT, STAFF WRITER

t is 6:00 in the morning, and I am in the shower, getting ready for the day FIRE SAFETY ahead when my daughter suddenly and frantically bangs on the bathroom WHAT YOU SHOULD KNOW Idoor and starts yelling. “There’s a fire! Mom! There’s a fire!” Home fires account for nearly 90 percent of My first thought? OMG! Of course this is going to happen when I am in the shower! all fire-related fatalities.

Absolute set in as I jumped out of the shower, not even taking the time Working smoke alarms to turn off the water. Soaking wet, I grabbed a towel, wrapped it around me, and flew out the door. reduce the chance of dying in a fire by half. As I ran through the kitchen toward the staircase, I saw my daughter standing in the wide-open front door ... just standing there, staring out. 77 percent of I was completely confused and bewildered as I attempted to grasp the families have not situation quickly, which was difficult due to being scared and not being completely awake. When I got closer, I could see that it was not our house developed and practiced on fire, it was the house across the street, and it was completely engulfed in a home fire escape plan, one of flames. Because the sun was not up yet, it looked like the world was on fire, the most important components and it was almost blinding. As I stepped out onto the front porch, I heard to surviving a home fire. sirens in the distance, so someone else had also seen it and had already called the fire department. Fire can spread rapidly through a home, leaving Within minutes emergency vehicles of all kinds filled the street directly in front of my house. By that point, however, the house a family as little as two across the street could not be saved. We stood for a while minutes to escape in disbelief, watching the firefighters hose down the safely once the alarm sounds. surrounding houses to prevent the fire from spreading. Install fire extinguishers Fortunately, the house that burned to the ground was vacant and smoke detectors at the time, so no one was injured. Due to the quick response of the emergency teams, there was also little damage to the in several key areas of surrounding houses. the house—especially the kitchen, garage, and This memorable and unexpected event made laundry room. The National me realize that house fires do not happen at a Fire Protection Association convenient time when you are dressed and ready recommends a multi-purpose fire or wide awake in the middle of the afternoon. If it had actually been my house on fire, no one under device large enough to put out a our roof would have been prepared. small fire but not so heavy that it will be difficult to handle. My advice is this: have a well-defined plan and conduct regular fire drills at the most HAVE WORKING inconvenient time possible (like when SMOKE ALARMS. someone is in the shower). It will be rather amusing for you and, at the same time, PRACTICE AN serve to ensure everyone in your house is ready for the unexpected. ESCAPE PLAN.

Fall 2020 31 HEALTH AND FITNESS

ith the fall season fast approaching, many people enjoy outdoor activities as the Wweather starts to cool. Two upcoming Air Force outdoor events will be held in September 2020 that can be enjoyed by both spectators and participants. The Air Force is joining in the fun at the 27th Annual Mountain Home Air Force Appreciation Day Fun Run/ Walk on Friday, September 11, 2020, in Mountain Home, ID. Another event is the 24th Annual Air Force Marathon. This year’s in-person endurance event has been canceled, but you can still run the virtual event any day between September 1-30, 2020. You may run, walk, or run/walk the full distance wherever you want – around your neighborhood, on a treadmill, or any course of your choosing. Both the Marathon and the Fun Run are challenging ways to optimize good health while enjoying the outdoors and the camaraderie of others; however, chances for an enjoyable time will increase for participants if they follow proper runner’s protocol.

It is important to keep in mind that both marathons and fun runs require training before the run to keep your body, mind, and spirit in optimum condition. The following provides guidelines for training Training schedules for the different races. i A 5K is 3.1 miles and requires approximately for the four to eight weeks of training. i A 10K is 6.2 miles and requires approximately eight to 12 weeks of training. Big Race i A half-marathon is 13.1 miles and requires approximately 12 to 14 weeks of training.

BY MS. GAYLE SMEAD, STAFF WRITER i A marathon is 26.2 miles and requires approximately 20 to 24 weeks of training.

32 The Mobility Forum HEALTH AND FITNESS

When training, it is helpful to run It is vital to stay hydrated both before and on soft surfaces such as grass, dirt, sand, synthetic tracks and fields, and after a run. It is advisable to drink one or two sprung wood floors to decrease the amount of shock that the runner’s bottles of water before you set out to run. bones and muscles have to absorb. This precaution will help prevent preference, there are a few things to hands while running. This backpack shin splints, which is pain along the consider. Cotton socks can lead to has a bag inside that can hold from 70 shinbone (the large front bone in the blisters because the fabric can rub your ounces to more than 3 liters of fluid. lower leg), due to overuse. feet, causing friction. One solution During sponsored races, volunteers could be a comfortable, form-fitting may be posted at designated hydration Experts recommend warm-up dry-fit sock. Socks with toe seams can stations to hand out water to runners to exercises before running and cool- also cause blisters, so many people help keep them hydrated. down exercises after running to avoid wearing these. prevent injuries. Studies show that Running apps are available for dynamic warm-up activities that Loose fit cotton clothing should be smartphones to help track the distance utilize the muscles used when running avoided while running because it can that you travel, your speed, and how can be helpful for both warm-up and cause chafing and irritation to the many calories you are burning. You cool-down time. Dynamic stretching is skin. Many people prefer running can even map out your route using a stretch that is not held for any length shorts that are made of flexible nylon your running app. Some running of time and includes movements to to encourage freedom of movement, apps can measure your progress and warm up the body. Some dynamic while other people prefer tight lycra workout history and provide a variety stretches for warm-ups could include shorts that provide support and of training plans. walking lunges or jumping jacks. prevent chafing. Petroleum jelly can Some dynamic stretches for cooling also be used on the body to prevent As with any new exercise program, down could include hamstring rubbing and chaffing. If the weather is experts advise that you consult stretches, arm and ab stretches, and cold, then several lightweight layers, your physician before beginning the butterfly stretches. with the base layer fitting snugly, is program. You should also immediately often preferred. consult your physician if, at any Choosing the right running shoe time during your workout, you feel helps to ensure that your run is more It is vital to stay hydrated both before pain, feel faint, or have any kind of enjoyable. With so many running and after a run. It is advisable to drink significant physical discomfort. shoes to choose from, it is essential to one or two bottles of water before find a shoe that has a footprint shape you set out to run. According to some This year’s 27th Annual Mountain that matches your foot and is made of experts, if you run for under one hour, Home Air Force Appreciation Day durable materials that provide traction you should drink at least 3 to 6 ounces Fun Run/Walk and the 24th Annual without being too heavy or stiff. The of water every 15 to 20 minutes of a Air Force Marathon virtual events shoe must be responsive and provide run. Some runners invest in hydration are great outdoor activities to enjoy a comfortable cushion and also a belts that are worn around the waist while anticipating the changing of platform so you can firmly push off and can hold up to four 6-ounce seasons from summer to fall. Whether the ground when you run. Your shoes bottles. This equipment frees up your you intend to be a spectator or a should provide stability for support so hands while running and still provides participant, the camaraderie can be your foot can move comfortably. It can a way to drink the water you need to enjoyed either way, and there is plenty be a good idea to buy your running complete the run. Hydration backpacks of time to train for next year’s activities shoes in the evening because feet are another option to free up your if you start planning now. throughout the day, so a larger size may be needed to fit comfortably.

Learn more about the Air Force Marathon at https://www.usafmarathon.com/ It is also essential to find the right socks and clothing when running Learn more about the Air Force Appreciation’s Fun Run/Walk 2020 at a long distance, and, although this https://runsignup.com/Race/ID/MountainHome/AirForceAppreciationsFunRunWalk decision can be based on personal

Fall 2020 33 MOTORCYCLE CULTURE THE FREEDOM OF MOTORCYCLES

BY MS. KATHY ALWARD, STAFF WRITER

veryone has life-changing my mother listen and change from moments. Sometimes her calm nature to a frantic state, changes are only temporary, and repeatedly saying, “Okay. We will Ebut sometimes changes are be right there.” She dropped the forever. My family was shocked phone, grabbed my father, and that a motorcycle, which was said that my brother had been in supposed to provide such a feeling a terrible motorcycle accident. An of freedom while riding, would Forever ambulance was taking him to the cause a forever change. hospital, and as they were running out the door, and I was standing My brother and I were both in the hallway in a state of shock, adopted as infants. We led a they said they were sure it would very peaceful family life filled Changes be all right. They would be sending with love, laughter, good friends immediately to be with me, communication, and hope. My and they would keep me informed. brother was an Eagle Scout, won prize ribbons at the school science fairs, and was highly intelligent. At the I later learned that, due to the severity of his injuries, my same time, he wanted to fit in with his peers, and he was brother was airlifted to a hospital in Oklahoma City that drawn to the crowd who had motorcycles. My mother was better equipped to care for him. He had hit a pothole realized that it was very important to him and was very on a residential street, had flown off his motorcycle, supportive of this new interest. My father, however, was and hit a tree so hard that his helmet had cracked in always the voice of reason and had reservations. He tried half. He had broken every bone in his forehead and was convincing both my brother and my mother that he should now in a coma. He stayed in a coma for several days, take his interest elsewhere. This difference of opinion was and we learned that he required brain surgery and eye an ongoing subject for many months, but eventually, my surgery. Although the eye surgery improved his physical mother won the debate. appearance, the doctors were unable to restore sight in that eye. The accident also left him deaf in one ear, which The motorcycle brought him so much happiness until causes an equilibrium imbalance. As he was healing, he one fateful day when everything changed in an instant. It struggled with losing his balance when he walked. was a Sunday morning, and I asked why my brother was not awake and getting ready to go to church. My mom It is now 45 years later. To this day I always remember to smiled and handed me a note he had written that said, sit on the side of my brother’s undamaged ear so he can “Do not wake me except for a natural disaster.” It was hear me when I speak. He is still blind in one eye, and his not a “natural disaster,” but our mom did have to wake personality was changed forever due to the brain injury. him because he had missed delivering a newspaper to He has spent a lifetime trying to overcome the disabilities one house earlier that morning. Although he was tired, caused by this accident. I am very proud of him and all he got on his motorcycle and went to deliver the paper. his accomplishments. He has overcome his challenges by The fateful phone call came soon after he left. I watched earning, not only one, but three college degrees, and has

34 The Mobility Forum MOTORCYCLE CULTURE

worked in the defense industry using his mechanical engineering degree. He currently enjoys teaching robotics.

I recently moved home to help my mother, who was ill, and when I arrived I called my brother, who lives 900 miles away from our hometown. One of the first things he said to me was, “Can you please go into my bedroom closet and throw the motorcycle helmet away?” My mother had never forgiven herself, but I had no idea she had kept the helmet. I did throw the helmet away, and my brother was grateful.

I told my brother I was writing this article on motorcycle safety and asked what he thought the focus of the article should be. He said to focus on safety equipment, such as helmets, boots, long pants, and sleeves. He also said to focus on situational awareness by always knowing what is around you and what is in the path of your vehicle. I thanked him for his input, but I planned to focus on what we learned as a family from his accident instead. I wanted to share the personal experience of how life can change in an instant, and how these changes can be forever.

Fall 2020 35 SAFETY CULTURE

A Wingman’s Philosophy Can

BY MS. KATHY ALWARD, Save the Day STAFF WRITER

t can be hard to see how our actions may affect others, as well as ourselves, especially when we are Iin celebration mode. What starts as a good time with friends can turn into a disaster, especially if someone gets behind the wheel of a car or motorcycle after reaching the legal limit of blood alcohol content (BAC) of .08 percent. It is times like these where a wingman’s philosophy to provide protection or support to another in a possibly dangerous situation would be helpful in everyday life. My family learned this lesson one Mother’s Day shortly after my son had completed United States Marine Corps Recruit Training, or “boot camp” as it is commonly known.

My son signed up for the Marine Reserves because he wanted to serve his country. Coming from a single- parent family, he also believed it was good to save the money he earned at boot camp to add to his savings from his full-time job so he could purchase his first vehicle. Shortly after he got home from boot camp, he put a down payment on a vehicle and drove off into the sunset to a party at his friend’s home. He had plenty to celebrate, and the following day he planned to take me to lunch in his new car for Mother’s Day. Unfortunately, that never happened.

36 The Mobility Forum SAFETY CULTURE

That was a long five years. It seemed that our lives would never return that the court assigned to him, and to normal ... everywhere he went until he could get his license back in five years.

That was a long five years. It seemed that our lives would never return to When I got up to make coffee on home, he turned a little too sharply on normal, and to think that driving after Mother’s Day, I went to wake my son. one of the curves and dropped freefall drinking only one beer could cause It was obvious that he had not slept off the road into the hillside shrubbery. such problems. The one thing we in his bed. My first reaction was that know for sure is that we both learned he must have stayed at his friend’s There was no way for him to escape the importance of never drinking house overnight, and that made good the situation he had created. He could before getting behind the wheel of sense. The morning lingered on, and I not get the car out of the shrubbery a car or motorcycle. We realize the became curious about when we were without help, and getting help situation could have been much worse. to leave for our lunch celebration. involved the police. It was when help What if he had gotten into an accident When I called my son, there was no arrived that my son realized that his and someone was hurt, or, even worse, answer. He is a reliable person, so I situation was even worse than he had had died? In a case such as this, he began to wonder why he would not thought. After he and the car were could have gone to prison for an pick up his phone and talk to me. The rescued, the police towed the car exceptionally long time, and possibly morning hours passed slowly to noon, and took him to the police station. never recovered from the emotional and when I called his friends, no one Naturally, my son did not want to call damage of affecting someone else’s life had an answer regarding how to find me on Mother’s Day to get him out in such a devastating way because of my son. of jail, so a friend bailed him out. He what seemed to be a simple mistake. did not realize that drinking one beer In the early afternoon, after I had fixed could cause so many problems. It is times like these when a wingman’s myself lunch, my son rolled through philosophy would have been the door, looking devastated. I was One of those many problems was unbelievably valuable. If only a friend afraid to ask what was wrong. He that he had not bought gap insurance had been looking out for him and proceeded to tell me that he went to (insurance that pays the difference offered to keep him out of danger by his friend’s house the night before, and between your car loan and its actual driving him home after he had been since he would be 18 years old the next value in the event of an accident) for drinking. We learned the importance week he decided to celebrate early his car. Therefore, although his car of developing a plan before a person by drinking a beer with his friend. was totaled, insurance did not cover even leaves their house to celebrate Drinking only one beer did not sound the cost of his loan. Not only was his or drink with friends. There should too bad; however, one consequential driver’s license taken away for five always be a designated driver, other problem was that he was not yet old years, but he also lost his car and than the person who is drinking enough to drink legally. Another had to pay a fine of several thousand alcohol. We can never anticipate what crucial issue was that he had driven dollars. We lived in San Diego, where problems might arise when drinking from his friend’s house after he drank it is close to impossible to live without and driving, but we can be sure of one the beer. His friend lived in a beautiful a car. Therefore, my son needed thing: one mistake can affect your life house up a winding, unpaved road on someone to drive him to work, to and the lives of others for many years a hillside. When my son left to drive the 18-month alcohol/drug program to come. Maybe even for a lifetime.

Fall 2020 37 MISHAP-FREE FLYING HOUR MILESTONES

8,500 HOURS 93 ARS, Fairchild AFB, WA MSgt Michael Garcia Lt Col Dana Post Lt Col Jason Knab MSgt Christopher Pedersen Lt Col Scot Wilcox 109 AS, St. Paul, MN Maj Purvis Gaddis Maj Justin Hurst MSgt Richard Krivanek 2,500 HOURS CMSgt Christopher Rueckert Maj Denny Paulsen 6,500 HOURS 92 ARS, Fairchild AFB, WA SMSgt Ryan Clauss Capt Nicholas Smith Lt Col Dawn Hildebrand 109 AS, St. Paul, MN 1Lt Joseph Hawkins 97 ARS, Fairchild AFB, WA Lt Col Joshua Korzilius MSgt Aran Stromberg Lt Col Matthew Ritenour SMSgt Steve Lynch Maj Stephen MacDonald 1Lt Andrew Masel MSgt Brian Bittmann 5,000 HOURS Maj Ryan Miller TSgt Carlos Figueroa 92 ARS, Fairchild AFB, WA 109 AS, St. Paul, MN Capt Luke Brown Maj Kendall Brown Lt Col Brandon Moore TSgt Trent Vandergon 93 ARS, Fairchild AFB, WA Lt Col Kevin Roche 109 AS, St. Paul, MN Col Gene Jacobus 121 ARW, Rickenbacker IAP, OH Lt Col Andrew Murphy Lt Col Greg Weaver Lt Col Scott Davis Lt Col Andrew Powers Lt Col Dave Raab Lt Col Marcus West TSgt Chance Italiano Maj Adam Adair CMSgt Lance Scheller SMSgt Lanny White TSgt Ian Southerland 384 ARS, McConnell AFB, KS SMSgt Curtiss Jones Lt Col Kevin Haynie 121 ARW, Rickenbacker IAP, OH 97 ARS, Fairchild AFB, WA MSgt Robben Todd Col David Johnson Lt Col Christopher Dieter Lt Col Joshua Renfro Maj Kristian Tonnessen 121 ARW, Rickenbacker IAP, OH Maj Coty Hoffman Maj Jonathan Bergkamp MSgt Robert Cox Maj Steven Suhrie Maj Joseph D’Agostino 384 ARS, McConnell AFB, KS MSgt Dillon Poole Maj Brett Finneran SMSgt Lawrence Nahalea 384 ARS, McConnell AFB, KS Maj Jacob Howard Lt Col Jonathan King 109 AS, St. Paul, MN 3,500 HOURS Lt Col Robert Meanley Col Jesse Carlson Maj Christopher Hunter 92 ARS, Fairchild AFB, WA Maj Roberto Benitez Lt Col Dan Brower Maj Michael Raynor Lt Col Brett Fish Maj Brian Sikkema Lt Col Jason Christensen Maj Scott Skibitsky Maj William Morse Maj Joseph Smith Lt Col Rebecca McAbee MSgt Marcus Barnes SMSgt Robert Miller SMSgt Michael Russell Lt Col Dana Novinskie MSgt Matthew Machala

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38 The Mobility Forum QUICKSTOPPERS Hazardous Attitudes Impact BY LT COL LANCE Q. HOLLAWAY, on Safety AMC FLIGHT SAFETY

ood judgment is paramount to the safe operation of aircraft, weapons, engineering, heavy machinery, A critical component of hazard Gvehicles, and other equipment. Anytime an operation presents hazards that contain the potential mitigation is an understanding for loss of life, serious injury, or enormous financial of the human factors and the losses, we run the risk of not correctly identifying and mitigating the hazards. vulnerabilities associated with the mental and emotional state of the A critical component of hazard mitigation is an understanding of the human factors and the individual making those important vulnerabilities associated with the mental and emotional frontline decisions. state of the individual making those important frontline decisions. A series of studies have identified five hazardous attitudes that interfere with the ability to make i Anti-authority – “Follow the safe and sound decisions. rules and regulations; most operating rules are i Anti-authority – “Do not safety-driven and have tell me.” a specific purpose.”

i Impulsivity – “Do i Impulsivity – “Slow something, anything … down. Allow the human just do it now.” mind to think clearly. Create time to analyze before acting, and much better results i Invulnerability – “I have heard of will follow.” it happening, but it will not happen to me.” i Invulnerability – “Recognize it could happen to anyone, regardless of experience levels.” i Macho – “I can do it, no problem for me.” i Macho – “Taking chances and increasing unjustified i Resignation – “What is the use? Sometimes I get risk helps no one.” lucky, other times, not so much.” i Resignation – “Everyone has the potential to make a The critical human factor takeaway is twofold: (1) mental positive impact; be great at what you do.” and emotional awareness, and the ability to recognize these attitudes internally; and (2) taking positive steps to In conclusion, recognizing and mitigating hazardous increase the likelihood of safer outcomes by replacing a attitudes will lead to better decisions and a safer operating hazardous attitude with a more responsible perspective. environment for all of us.

U.S. GOVERNMENT PUBLISHING OFFICE: 2020-745-102/10021. For sale by the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Publishing Office. Fall 2020 39 Internet: bookstore.gpo.gov • Phone: toll free (866) 512-1800; DC area (202) 512-1800 Fax: (202) 512-2104 • Mail: Stop IDCC, Washington, DC 20402-0001 A DAY IN THE LIFE

Three medical Airmen exit a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft following the first-ever operational use of the Transport Isolation System (TIS) at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, April 10, 2020. The TIS is an infectious disease containment unit designed to minimize contamination risk to aircrew and medical attendants, while allowing in-flight medical care for patients afflicted by a disease—in this case, COVID-19.

USAF photo by SSgt Devin Nothstine