Rocket Motor Facility Remains Primary Altitude Test Support for Stage 2 and 3 Minuteman ICBM

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PRSRT STD US POSTAGE PAID TULLAHOMA TN Vol. 64, No. 11 Arnold AFB, Tenn. PERMIT NO. 29 June 5, 2017 Rocket motor facility remains primary altitude test support for Stage 2 and 3 Minuteman ICBM

Test customers conduct an inspection prior to starting simulated altitude testing in the Arnold Air Force Base J-6 Large Rocket Test Facility for a Minuteman Stage III Intercontinental Ballistic Missile in 2011. (U.S. Air Force photo/Rick Goodfriend)

By Deidre Ortiz Force Base is the primary alti- sion Test Operations at ployed," he said. and we are one of the few places AEDC Public Affairs tude simulation testing Arnold AFB, the most recent Migliaccio explained the that do it,” he said. “If a facility facilities for the Minuteman testing is to assist in reason J-6 is used as the primary is unable to simulate the altitude Stage 2 and 3 Intercontinental determining the service life of testing facility for the Minute- needed, the test customer isn’t Due to its unique capabili- Ballistic Missiles. the ICBM. man is its altitude capabilities. able to get the data they need.” ties, J-6 Large Rocket Motor According to Joe Migliac- “We are testing the current “These ICBMs require alti- Test Facility at Arnold Air cio, a lead for Rocket Propul- line of Minuteman missiles de- tude simulation to verify limits See ROCKET, page 3 Live Fire training keeps Maj. Gen. Harris scheduled firefighters prepared for the fight as keynote speaker at AEDC Fellows Banquet By Claude Morse Arnold Community Council

TULLAHOMA, TENN. – Maj. Gen. David A. Harris, commander of the Air Force Test Center, Ed- wards Air Force Base, California, is scheduled as the keynote speaker for the 2017 AEDC Fellows Ban- quet and induction ceremony June 23 at the Arnold Lakeside Center, Arnold Air Force Base. General Harris directs a $31 billion enterprise of more than 18,000 military, civilian and contractor personnel across 31 locations Maj. Gen. David A. Harris within the AFTC. The Test Center provides developmental test and evaluation of experimental and research manned and unmanned air, space and cyber systems for military services, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), Arnold Air Force Base paramedic/firefighters prepare to enter the Kentucky Fire Commission mobile live fire rescue simulation training structure on May 11. Forty-one base firefighters, NASA and international partners, in addition to operation of participated in the annual training experiencing high temperatures and smoke, and practicing the U.S. Air Force Test Pilot School. firefighting and self-rescue techniques.(U.S. Air Force photo/Rick Goodfriend) Five current and former AEDC employees will be inducted as Fellows during the banquet. By Raquel March training is instrumental to their mission. The new AEDC Fellows are: Brent Bates of Tullahoma, cur- AEDC Public Affairs Forty-one base firefighters participated in rently employed by QuantiTech at AEDC; and the late Dr. E. a training session May 9-11 to sharpen their Eugene “Gene” Callens Jr., formerly of Tullahoma who was For Arnold Air Force Base firefighters, be- basic firefighting skills during an annual employed by the Arnold Research Organization (ARO) and ing prepared is paramount to controlling fires structural live fire training session conducted during an emergency at the base and Live Fire See FELLOWS, page 3 See FIRE, page 3

New ‘Security Now!’ Trusted Traveler Program SharePoint site implemented …Page 3 …Page 3 2 • June 5, 2017

Arnold Air Force Let’s have a cup of coffee Base By Maj. Gregory Lewis lenges we share to focus our energy on specific interjected and in no uncertain terms said he Defense Technology Security Administration individuals and the organization as a whole. As was willing to let this train wreck. (I should in- leaders, we are inherently trustful, as we utilize clude specifically, that this was not a life and ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. a cadre of personnel to carryout out our orders. death situation.) He reiterated the need to let the (AFNS) – Regardless of your profession, many However, that trust does not negate our respon- situation play out and give the individual the of us have been in positions defining the re- sibility to ensure those orders are effectively opportunity to right the ship and complete the quired leadership and management qualifica- and successfully carried out. project. He was not afraid to let this individual tions as an expectation of our ability to execute As a field grade officer, I had the- oppor fail and recognized it as a learning opportunity. our office. But like many things, no two are tunity to work alongside a commander who Nodding our heads in agreement in accor- Col. Rodney Todaro alike and not one will prevail without the help would daily reiterate the importance of the in- dance with his guidance, he then said in a very Commander of another. dividuals within his unit under his command. casual tone, “but I think it’s time to have a cup Part of our charge in these roles is not only But he would also reiterate his responsibility of coffee with him.” We all understood what he Jason Austin to lead, but to mentor, manage, challenge em- as a leader and a mentor to provide guidance, meant and that one sentence told us everything Chief, Public Affairs ployees to be better and at times accept short- expectations and accountability to ensure he we needed to hear. term failures to ensure long-term successes. maintained legitimate authority and not just au- He once told me that he was not concerned As a military officer and business professional, thority based in rank. about my ability to make important decisions. I have had the opportunity to work with great As we met daily to discuss current opera- He was not afraid of me being wrong or even Cynthia Rivera leaders, great managers and a smaller percent tions, we often discussed personnel issues and failing, but if at some point my performance General Manager, of members that require some flexibility in de- the status of ongoing projects. At one point, or judgment did not reflect the level of - com National Aerospace veloping their own abilities. while discussing a project being led by one of mitment and dedication to our service, unit or Solutions The latter is my focus. These are not indi- our junior officers, we detailed schedule delays, people then we will no doubt be drinking coffee High Mach Staff: viduals that require micromanagement. They communication errors and our general dissatis- together. Kathy Gattis, are typically our junior leaders and managers faction with the way the project was being man- So tell me, who do you need to have a cup NAS Executive Editor who bear a moderate amount of responsibility, aged. of coffee with? demonstrate an adequate amount of competen- We were obviously annoyed at this indi- (Editor’s note: Maj. Gregory Lewis is an Raquel March, cies, but require a higher level of mentorship. vidual’s performance and while we took turns individual mobilization augmentee assigned to NAS Editor suggesting ideas around the room ranging from the Defense Technology Security Administra- High Mach is published by Scenarios like these are playing out every Lakeway Publishers, Inc. a pri- day across all industries and represent the chal- admonishment to replacement, our commander tion) vate firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, Arnold Air Force Base, Arnold Engi- neering Development Complex (AEDC) or National Aerospace Start summer plans with safety in mind Solutions (NAS), under exclu- sive written contract with NAS By Maj. Gen However, each year Sports and Recreation – stay in shape throughout the call of Route 66, the at Arnold AFB, Tenn., 37389. Andrew Mueller Airmen or members of I’m surprised by the the year so you are ready open road calls to many Everything advertised in Air Force Safety Center their family are need- number of injuries in- to win when you engage military families. No lec- this publication will be made available for purchase, use lessly injured, or worse, curred in common sports in your favorite sport. ture here, just encourage- or patronage without regard Summer weather while participating in like basketball and soft- ment. If you’re a passen- to race, color, religion, sex, brings with it the op- outdoor activities. Over ball. In 2016, the Air Water ger, maintain your situ- national origin, age, marital sta- portunity to get out and the past 10 years, an aver- Force experienced 2,031 Each summer a few ational awareness of the tus, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non- enjoy outdoor activities age of 50 Airmen and an injuries in sports and rec- Airmen die while boating, road. Help the driver. All merit factor of the purchaser, with fellow Airmen, fam- equal number of family reation activities. Each water skiing, scuba diving of our minds wander and user or patron. ily and friends. There members died in off-duty year you get a little older and, in more cases than that’s deadly at 65 mph. The High Mach office is is nothing quite like a activities such as boating, and the speed and agility one would expect, from And make a family rule of located at 100 Kindel Drive, kayaking, swimming, you had in high school simply watching waves turning off the cell phone Suite A236, Arnold AFB, Tenn. warm afternoon on the 37389-1236. Editorial content beach, around the neigh- biking, riding an ATV, don’t magically reappear during hurricanes. In most when you’re the driver. is edited and prepared by NAS. borhood pool, or even in and general aviation. each summer. Take time all cases, using a sound On Sept. 18, 2017, all Deadline for copy is Wednes- the back yard showcasing Today, it’s much more to prepare for sports activ- buddy system could have Airmen will celebrate the day at close of business one common to be injured or ity with a good routine of prevented these mishaps. 70th anniversary of our week before publication. your favorite barbecue This commercial enterprise technique, to make some killed off duty than on stretching and warm up. It Sometimes the calmness Air Force. Over the past newspaper is an allowable lasting memories. There duty. you don’t have the skills of the open ocean seems to seven decades, we’ve seen NAS contractor publication is no question about it – How are most Airmen in a particular sport, prac- challenge us to go beyond dramatic reductions in on- for personnel at Arnold AFB. summer is a lot of fun! injured off duty? tice or take a lesson or two our limits, all in the spirit and off-duty fatalities. In The content of High Mach does not necessarily reflect the of fun. Unfortunately, the the 1950s our Air Force views of the Air Force, Arnold open ocean is terribly un- experienced more than AFB, AEDC or NAS. The ap- forgiving. So stick with a 1,000 fatalities per year. pearance of advertising in this partner, know your limits Today we’re on a “Quest publication does not constitute and most importantly, use for Zero” when it comes endorsement of the products or services advertised by the the safety gear that can to on- and off-duty fatali- Department of Defense, the save your life. ties. Zero fatalities from Department of the Air Force, activities meant to be fun Arnold AFB, AEDC, NAS or Fire and fireworks is easily achievable. But, Lakeway Publishers, Inc. Every year, Airmen it means that you must For general information about High Mach, call (931) are severely burned start- take personal responsibil- 454-5655 or visit www. ing their barbecue or from ity for your safety, that of arnold.af.mil. open flames. Throwing your family and your fel- Use High Mach to market flammable items, like fire- low Airmen. Use the same your products and servic- works, into fires has the sound risk management es. Contact Renee at 931- same result every time … techniques you use every 455-4545 or tnadvmgr@ lcs.net. it will burn, it will explode day in on-duty activities and someone will get hurt. to keep you, your family Barbecues and fire pits and fellow Airmen safe are great for camping or this summer. enjoying the back yard, Chief Master Sgt. but both involve open Joshua Franklin, Air flames. There’s nothing Force Safety Career Field better than a fresh-toasted Manager, and I want to marshmallow, for sure – thank all our Air Force Core Values but respect open flames. families for the support And, prelight that gas bar- you give our nation’s Air- • Integrity first becue. men. Our families repre- • Service before self sent the core of who we • Excellence in all On the Road are, our strength as a ser- we do This one you do ev- vice and a touchstone for ery day. It’s driving. Our those deployed in harm’s hazard exposure goes up way. Be certain, each of during summer because you is a valuable part of we spend more time on our Air Force and our Na- Vision the road. From road trips tion. Make this summer a “NAS will be integral to the success of AEDC, the U. S. Air to theme parks, to visit- fun one – full of enjoyable Force’s premier aerospace testing facilities, while applying the highest ing relatives in the next memories to last a life- standards of ethics, innovation, state or on a far coast, or time. safety, security, and quality to daily operations.” Values • Ethics. We are uncompromising in our Action Line integrity, honesty, and fairness. Smoking Policy • Safety & Health. We are relentless in keeping people safe from harm, and 1. The following revised Arnold AFB smoking policy is effective immediately and applies to all individuals on Team AEDC we provide a safe and healthy work Arnold AFB. I believe in free and open communications environment. 2. Traditional Tobacco products (e.g. cigars and cigarettes): with our Team AEDC employees, and that’s • Security. We are disciplined and vigilant a. Smoking is permitted solely in Designated Tobacco Areas (DTAs) identified by designated signage. If no in protecting sensitive AEDC information why we have the Action Line available. and ensuring system integrity to support signage exists, smoking is not permitted in that area. It is the responsibility of all smokers to keep DTAs People can use the Action Line to clear national security and our customers. clean of cigarette butts. • Excellence. We thrive on challenge, b. Tobacco use on the Arnold AFB Golf Course is permitted, but discouraged based on the health hazards up rumors, ask questions, suggest ideas accomplishment, and mission success. of tobacco use and secondhand smoke. No smoking is permitted within 50 feet of golf course buildings on improvements, enter complaints or • Quality. We are passionate about doing our work right the first time. except in the approved DTA. get other issues off their chests. They • People. We have a mission-focused, c. Smoking in government-owned/leased vehicles is strictly prohibited. Personnel are allowed to smoke in their can access the Action Line via the AEDC inclusive workforce who have a diverse personal vehicles at any time; however, at no time will personnel discard cigarette butts outside their vehicle. intranet home page and by calling 454-6000. skill set, are committed to success, d. For government employees, the fact that a person smokes has no bearing on the number of breaks they demonstrate innovation and have a can Although the Action Line is always do attitude. may take. Breaks should be taken in accordance with the current supervisory and personnel policies that available, the best and fastest way to get • Culture. Our team is proud of our diver- afford all employees the same break opportunities consistent with good work practices and accomplish- things resolved is by using your chain of sity, inclusiveness, and collaborative work ment of the mission. environment. We are proud of what we do 3. Smokeless Tobacco products (e.g. snuff and dip): command or by contacting the organization and how we do it. directly involved. I encourage everyone to • Relationships. We build positive, long- Smokeless tobacco products are not to be restricted to DTAs. Smokeless tobacco use will be permitted in all term business relationships through trust, workplace areas (inside and out) subject to reasonable safety and sanitary conditions. Specifically, containers go that route first, then if the situation isn’t respect, and collaboration. of tobacco waste product, including sealed containers, must not be left unattended or disposed of in trash made right, give us a chance. • Innovation. We overcome challenges receptacles. Users of smokeless tobacco must flush tobacco waste down the toilet. through creativity, perseverance, technol- 4. Electronic Cigarettes (also known as “e-cigs”): ogy, and flexibility. We actively seek to Col. Rodney Todaro continually improve. Pursuant to Air Force Instruction (AFI) 40-102, Tobacco Free Living, e-cigs are considered to be equivalent to AEDC Commander • Sustainability. We plan and act for the tobacco products; however, e-cigs are not restricted to DTAs and are allowed to be used outdoors at a minimum long term benefit of our communities and distance of 25 feet from building entry/egress points. (This policy is dated July 27, 2016) our environment. June 5, 2017 • 3 Let’s have a cup of coffee New ‘Security Now!’ SharePoint site Arnold team members’ go-to site for latest security information

By Raquel March and Deidre Ortiz through the Visitor’s Center or be is- holder sponsors,” he said. AEDC Public Affairs New Trusted sued a badge. Escorted visitors are still subject “The Trusted Traveler Program to controlled or restricted area limi- As the new SharePoint webpage name sponsors must possess a valid base en- tations, as appropriate. No one is au- “Security Now!” indicates, Arnold Air Traveler try credential, Common Access Cards thorized to escort or vouch for foreign Force Base team members have access to or military associated ID cards only, nationals onto an installation. Security information that is relevant now. Program no Defense Biometrics Identification The Trusted Traveler program is The new webpage contains informa- System (DBIDS) or temporary access suspended if force protection condition related to installation entry control, credentials,” he said. “The sponsor tions reach Charlie or higher or as de- Visitor Center processes, responsibili- implemented must realize they are entirely respon- termined by security forces. ties for protection of Air Force resources, The Trusted Traveler Program was sible for the actions of all occupants There is a complete training pack- prohibited items on the installation, cam- implemented at Arnold Air Force Base in their vehicle, must remain with their age on the Trusted Traveler Program, era policies on the installation and more. on June 1 to assist personnel bringing visitors the entire time they are in the which can be accessed through the Currently, the webpage contains spe- visitors onto the installation. mission area and must meet all local “Security Now!” button, found on the cific information regarding the REAL ID Rick Trull, chief of Arnold AFB Se- security requirements.” Team AEDC SharePoint site. Part of Enforcement Act, commercial delivery curity Forces, explained that the Trust- Trull noted that it isn’t only an op- this training is a “How It Works!” sec- requirements, Active Shooter and Anti- ed Traveler Program is a procedure tion for DOD and military, but contract tion describing the requirements for terrorism training. adopted by many military installa- employees are also able to take part in bringing visitors on base. One of the most recent posts to the tions that allows for uniformed service the Trusted Traveler Program. Because of the stipulations, all Ar- new webpage is a document which con- members and spouses, Department of “Locally, the commander has au- nold AFB personnel must first review tains information about the new Trusted Defense employees and retired uni- thorized members of our contract mis- the training before attempting to spon- Traveler Program in accordance with formed service members and spouses sion partners, who have government sor someone under the Trusted Trav- (IAW) the Air Force Manual (AFMAN) to vouch for occupants in their im- issued CAC cards, to participate in eler Program. Anyone with questions 31-113 Installation Perimeter Access mediate vehicle and escort them into the Trusted Traveler Program as well about the program are asked to call Control. the Mission Area without having to go under those rules that apply to CAC 454-3424. Applying safe lifting and rigging techniques

By AEDC Safety standard on Hoisting Devices, which can be found on the AEDC Safety website on In June, the emphasis of the Safety the AEDC SharePoint webpage, details Condition Campaign is on the need to the safety procedures on lifting and practice safety whenever lifting and rigging. rigging is taking place. A few requirements of hoisting Hoisting devices are used extensively equipment operators include asking to at Arnold Air Force Base to lift, move be relieved when physically or mentally and place various items and personnel. impaired as an operator shall not be Many of the items being lifted may be required to operate a crane under those expensive, one-of-a-kind or mission conditions; accepting signals from one critical. Some contain explosives or other authorized signal person only (however, types of chemicals which are hazardous an emergency stop signal shall be to health or contain flammable properties. accepted from anyone); and operating Operation of hoisting equipment hoisting devices within rated load requires extensive training and capacities and in a safe manner. knowledge of the equipment. Should Maintenance qualified inspectors (AEDC file photo) one of the items being lifted be dropped must also perform all required inspections or otherwise damaged during a lift, the of hoisting equipment and ensure new A Hoisting and Rigging Handbook scissor lifts or manlifts, which are results could jeopardize the mission hoisting equipment or equipment which has been developed as an annex to the covered under a separate SHE Standard. through property damage or injury to has been taken out of service is properly standard to be referred to for specific However, ASME requirements for personnel. inspected before it is initially placed into guidance. The standard on Hoisting forklift operations are now also covered The Safety Health and Environmental or back in service. Devices does not cover fork trucks, in the Hoisting and Rigging Handbook.

ROCKET from page 1 Through the years Ar- as part of the testing, the ACC supports nold has played a major team checks performance role in development of the requirements of the motor Minuteman and other solid to evaluate specifications AEDC at the rocket motor based ICBMs such as thrust, thrust ter- for the U.S. Air Force. mination and impulse. nation’s capital “Our facilities are “We make sure that it’s The Arnold Community Council past presi- uniquely qualified for the performing within the re- dent, Jim Jolliffe, speaks with Congress- task because there are quirements,” he said. “A man Diane Black about issues which the test cells large enough to database has been estab- ACC believes are important to the mission accommodate these full lished here at Arnold to of AEDC during a recent visit to Washing- scale ICBM rocket motor compare aging motor test ton, D.C. The visit was an annual trip where stages and provide a sta- data to production test data members of the council meet with decision ble altitude environment to ensure requirements are makers at the capital to share information before, during and after met.” about the vital testing AEDC provides for the nation’s defense. The ACC represents the full rocket motor burn In addition to the Min- 13 Tennessee and Alabama counties. It was time,” he said. “This stable uteman program, the Star founded in 2000 to support the U.S. Air Force altitude environment is variants, Peacekeeper Arnold Engineering Development Complex. possible because our rock- Stage 2 and Stage 3, Small The council currently has more than 350 et test cells at Arnold are ICBM motors, Orion mo- individual, civic, business, organizational connected to the large ex- tors, and the Payload As- and local government memberships. ACC haust plant compressors.” sist Modules (PAM) rocket is a Tennessee non-profit corporation and Randy Quinn, AEDC programs have been tested an IRS 501c6 non-profit. (Courtesy photo/ test manager, added that at Arnold AFB. Arnold Community Council)

FELLOWS from page 1 Calspan Corp. They are being honored as AEDC David W. Minto, recently retired Technical Direc- Committee which is headed up by former AEDC Technical Fellows. tor of the AEDC 704th Test Group at Holloman Air Commander and AEDC Lifetime Achievement Fel- Pete French, of Manchester, retired from AEDC, Force Base, New Mexico, has been selected as an low Retired Maj. Gen. Mike Wiedemer. worked for ARO and Sverdrup; and Annette Mc- AEDC Lifetime Achievement Fellow. For information on the program or attending the Cullough Painter, of Manchester, employed by cur- The AEDC Fellows Program began in 1989 as the banquet, email contact@arnoldcommunitycouncil. rent AEDC Test Operations and Sustainment contrac- Complex’s highest award. Since then 91 individuals org or call Fellows Committee member AEDC Life- tor National Aerospace Solutions, LLC have been have been inducted as AEDC Fellows. The program time Achievement Fellow Claude Morse at (931) selected to be honored as AEDC Craftsman Fellows. is run by the Arnold Community Council Fellows 247-5151.

FIRE from page 1 by the Kentucky Fire Commission mobile live fire rescue training simu- lator. The training goals are to keep re- During live fire train- sponse times efficient and the firefighting at Arnold Air ers’ minds sharp. Force Base on May During the training, the firefighters 9-11, the Kentucky fight a ground floor fire and a basement Fire Commission fire, and breach a wall for building mobile live fire res- egress and rooftop ventilation. cue structure shown Firefighters may experience tem- in this photo was peratures up to 500 degrees Fahrenheit used to simulate real and limited visibility due to smoke. life fire scenarios for Arnold firefighters. The firefighters are able to practice (U.S. Air Force pho- forcible entry, hose stream application, to/Rick Goodfriend) fire attack above and below ground level and emergency self-rescue techniques. 4 • June 5, 2017 RPA culture continues innovation By Senior Airman Chase Cannon 49th Wing Public Affairs

HOLLOMAN AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. (AFNS) – The RQ-1 Predator, later designated as the MQ-1, was the right aircraft at the right time following the events of Sept. 11, 2001. While the nation was recovering from the largest attack in its history since the bombings of Pearl Harbor, members of the Pentagon prepared for a war they already knew would present new challenges the Defense Department had not faced before. “We were able to arm the Predator at a critical time,” said retired Gen. John Jumper, a former Air Force chief of staff. “There is no other single enterprise in the Air Force that has produced results like (remotely piloted aircraft).” Even though the arming of RPAs is standard practice for current operations, it was not always the clear choice. “I had to kick down doors,” Jumper said. “If I had not been a four star general, (arming the RQ-1) never would have hap- pened.” One of the biggest obstacles while trying to accomplish the goal of arming the RQ-1 was the fear that the exhaust from Retired Gen. John Jumper, a former Air Force chief of staff, and Col. Houston Cantwell, the 49th Wing commander, par- the missile would blow the propeller off of ticipate in a virtual drone racing demo on Holloman Air Force Base, N.M., May 19. During his visit he was updated on the aircraft. current remotely piloted aircraft training, given a look into the possibilities of future unmanned aircraft technology, and “We propped it on a stand on top of a a virtual drone racing obstacle course demonstration. Jumper is most known within the RPA community for his work mountain and aimed it at a target down arming the MQ-1 Predator. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Chase Cannon) in a valley, turned on the motor to see if Reaper and that’s a big change.” it would blow the propeller off,” Jumper Jumper has been tirelessly pushing for Retired Gen. John said. the advancement of RPAs for years, and Jumper, a former Air can be cited as a major advocate for their Force chief of staff, The successful arming of the Predator meets leadership at use. was the first step in a series of events that Holloman Air Force led the RPA community to where it is to- “Retired Gen. John Jumper has been a Base, N.M., May day. leading advocate for remotely piloted air- 19. During his visit “There have been several milestones, I craft since the 1990s, when he was a three he was updated on think the one that probably made the big- star general,” said Col. Houston Cantwell, current remotely pi- gest difference was when we were able to the 49th Wing commander. “He has been loted aircraft train- put the Hellfire missile on the Predator,” the strongest force behind the continued ing, given a look Jumper said. “We were able to do that at a advancement of these technologies.” into the possibilities of future unmanned critical time and have that capability ma- RPAs are still advancing, with new in- novations every year. aircraft technology, tured by the time we started dealing with and attended virtual the (Islamic State of Iraq and Syria) cri- “These systems are going to be around drone racing obsta- sis.” for a while,” Jumper said. “We have got to cle course demon- The culmination of Jumper’s vision be able to capitalize on the most precious stration. Jumper is has led to the constant use of RPAs by the thing we have with these vehicles, and most known within DOD all over the world. that’s persistence. It is not payload, it is not the RPA community “The arming has probably made the speed, we have got aircraft that do that bet- for his work arm- biggest single difference that we have had ter. What we do have is persistence. Stay- ing the MQ-1 Preda- so far, and I think that it has paid off in ing airborne for a long period of time, how tor. (U.S. Air Force do we make that better? Well, we build the photo/Senior Airman many ways,” Jumper said. “We are now Chase Cannon) carrying 500-pound bombs on the MQ-9 next generation of these (technologies).” June 5, 2017 • 5

Rylan Cox earns doctoral degree in mechanical engineering from UTSI The University of Tennessee Space Institute held a Spring Graduate Reception on May 8 to honor students who had recently received their degrees since summer 2016. Rylan Cox (front row, 2nd from left), AEDC engineer, received a doctoral degree in mechanical engineering fall 2016. Other graduates pictured in the front row, left to right, are Waleed Gueir, Cox, Judson Mc- Cracken, Stefen Lindorfer; back row, left to right, Nadarasa Nimalarasa, Jingke Mo, Adam Evans, Michael Buchanan and Jack Ly. (UTSI Photo by Laura Horton) 45th Space Wing enables nation’s space mission By Secretary of the Air creasingly, the American transmissions in the X- Force Public Affairs people and commerce de- and Ka-band frequencies. Retired Gen. John Jumper, a former Air Force chief of staff, and Col. Houston Cantwell, the 49th Wing commander, par pend on Air Force satel- “The men and women ticipate in a virtual drone racing demo on Holloman WASHINGTON lites for GPS navigation, of the 45th Space Wing current remotely piloted aircraft training, given a look into the possibilities of future unmanned aircraft technology (AFNS) – Space launch- timing signals for bank- and Air Force Space a virtual drone racing obstacle course demonstration. Jumper is most known within the RPA community for his es may soon be an almost ing and ATM machines, Command epitomize arming the MQ-1 Predator. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Chase Cannon) weekly sight on Florida’s and communications,” American ingenuity and Space Coast. said Secretary of the Air innovation,” said Un- As the need for space Force Heather Wilson, der Secretary of the Air lift grows globally, part- “The Air Force will con- Force Lisa Disbrow. nerships between the Air tinue to work with part- “Through them, we are Force, other government ners to drive innovation.” delivering safe, reliable, agencies and the com- The Air Force’s part- effective, and efficient mercial space industry nership with NASA is space launch for our na- are enhancing the 45th not a one-way street. tion and this excellent Space Wing’s vision of Col. Jack D. Fischer’s Air Force team is key to remaining the world’s arrival on the Interna- our ability to meet rapid- premier gateway to tional Space Station in ly growing demands for space. April showcased not only launch services.” With a mission of de- the Air Force’s accom- Air Force space op- livering assured space plishments in space, but erations have been in- launch, range and com- also its partnership with strumental in national bat capabilities for the NASA. During his four- security power projec- nation, the space wing month long stay, Fischer tion in five key space and its Eastern Range is assigned to Expedition mission areas - support, assets provide a vast net- 51, a multi-national team application, control, en- work of radar, telemetry tasked with conducting hancement and situation- and communications in- more than 250 biologi- al awareness. Through The 45th Space Wing supported NASA’s successful launch of Orbital ATK’s cal, biotechnology, phys- these accomplishments, struments to facilitate Cygnus spacecraft aboard a United Launch Alliance Atlas V rocket from Space the safe launch of all ical and Earth-science the 45th SW and the Air Launch Complex 41 April 18, Cape Canaveral Air Force Station, Fla., at 11:11 Department of Defense experiments, gathering Force continue to protect a.m. ET. (Courtesy photo/United Launch Alliance) National Security Space, information that may one and defend America’s NASA, National Oceanic day lead to a mission to advantage in the space and Atmospheric Admin- Mars. warfighting domain. istration, and commercial In March, the wing “Since 1954, Air operations. launched the ninth Force leaders and space According to Brig. Boeing-built Wideband warriors have been at the Gen. Wayne Monteith, Global SATCOM satel- cutting edge of technolo- the 45th SW commander, lite from Cape Canav- gy. From Bennie Schriev- the wing is developing eral Air Force Station, er, who we acknowledge plans to enable a launch Florida. WGS satellites as the pioneer of mili- a week to meet the grow- play an integral part in tary space, through larg- ing demand of national, the strategic and tactical er than life heroes like civil and commercial or- coordination of military Kevin Chilton and Bob ganizations to put capa- operations. This satellite Kehler and Susan Helms bilities on orbit. Today, will provide the United and now John Hyten and the wing is on track to States and six allied na- Jay Raymond ... we have launch 30 times this year tions with increased consistently broken bar- and has no plans of slow- communications capa- riers in space technology. ing down. bilities to prevent, pro- We have and will own the One key initiative in tect against and respond high ground,” said Air reducing the time be- to attacks. Force Chief of Staff Gen. tween launches is the The WGS-9 satellite David Goldfein. implementation of the was funded through an On May 17, Wilson Autonomous Flight Safe- agreement between the and Goldfein were ac- ty System. The system United States, Canada, companied by Gen. John enables the 45th SW to Denmark, Luxembourg, Raymond, the AFSPC support more launches the Netherlands, New commander and Space by expediting range turn- Zealand and Australia. and Lt. Gen. Samuel around times with more Each partner country Greaves, the Missile Sys- stringent safety stan- gains access to the capa- tems Center commander dards, all while cutting bilities provided by the when they testified be- launch costs. However, full WGS system, which fore Congress on the increasing launch capac- includes flexible and future of the U.S. space ity is only one of many secure communication policy and posture. achievements at the 45 SW. Over the past several years, the wing partnered with the Air Force Rapid Capabilities Office and NASA to activate a new recovery site for the unmanned, reusable X-37B Orbital Test Vehicle. This partnership, along with the program’s renova- tions to the former Space Shuttle Orbiter Process- ing Facilities, allowed the OTV to land at the Kennedy Space Center Shuttle Landing Facility on May 7, 2017 after a record-breaking 718 days on orbit. “The Air Force provides space capabilities to protect the country. In- 6 • June 5, 2017 Tech Ops Squadron is heartbeat of nuke treaty monitoring from air, sea, space By Susan A. Romano AFTAC Public Affairs

PATRICK AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. – When the Defense Department needs bombs on target or fighters in the air, they reach out to any number of flying wings within the Air Force to task their squadrons to accomplish that mission. Yet when they need near-real time data of potential nuclear detonations, to include ballistic missile detection, radioactive plume debris collection, seismic activity or gam- ma ray emissions, there is only one wing within DOD that can meet that need. The Air Force Technical Applications Center is the sole organization in the De- fense Department whose mission is to de- tect and report technical data from foreign nuclear explosions. One of the ways that mission is accomplished is through the efforts of Airmen assigned to AFTAC’s Technical Operations Squadron. TOPS, under the command of Lt. Col. Donald W. Wittenberg, is responsible Military Sealift Command missile range instrumentation ship USNS Invincible makes way during sea trials following a for conducting worldwide surveillance regularly scheduled yard period. The platform is designed to augment the U.S. Ballistic Missile Defense sensor network and reconnaissance missions using its by providing target discrimination information to U.S. Strategic Command. (U.S. Navy photo by Tommy Chia) maritime and airborne assets in order to sor sweeps vast expanses of sky for pos- of those skill sets really complement each perform this complex mission. While we provide national authorities with quality sible missiles in flight, while the X-band other and enhance the understanding of don’t discuss specific ongoing operation- technical measurements that may involve radar zeroes in to closely track a target,” foreign tests and capabilities.” al taskings as a matter of policy, my team nuclear weapons of mass destruction. Wittenberg explained. Typically, MCs will be at sea for 60 has averaged more than 160 days of tem- “My squadron of 11 officers, 14- en According to the TOPS commander, to 90 days at a time, with most officers porary duty or deployment over the past listed and nine civilians directs and coor- both are capable of collecting radar data going out to sea twice a year. During the year flying background sorties to estab- dinates nuclear treaty monitoring efforts on orbiting satellites and tactical ballis- last 12 months, TOPS has included nucle- lish baseline levels of atmospheric debris. through the employment of the WC-135 tic missiles. Each vessel consists of two ar missile officers with a 13N Air Force These Airmen are incredibly motivated to Constant Phoenix aircraft as well as our radar systems and numerous support sys- Specialty Code into the mix for leader- get the job done, no matter where in the two ship-borne radar platforms, Gray tems including automatic data processing ship opportunities. world that job may be.” Star and Cobra King valued at more than equipment, navigation and a full commu- The mission commander’s ultimate He added, “We conduct these airborne $2.2 billion,” said Wittenberg. “These as- nications suite. responsibility is to ensure the platform sampling missions to help us understand sets allow us to accurately monitor space, “Their mobile instrumentation plat- team members are able to successfully what already exists in the atmosphere. We missile or weapons tests that may pose forms are one-of-a-kind systems with collect mission data. In addition to daily typically fly over the Indian Ocean, Medi- potential threats or hazards to our nation extremely critical performance character- mission taskings, the MC works closely terranean Sea, Bay of Bengal, the Polar or our allies.” istics,” Wittenberg said. “The radar sys- with experts from Military Sealift Com- Regions, the Far East, and off the coasts Cobra King and Gray Star are state-of- tems aboard USNS Invincible (Gray Star) mand to schedule port visits and develop of South America and Africa to ensure the-art mobile radar systems that consists and USNS Howard O. Lorenzen (Cobra a prioritized listing of necessary ship-re- signatories are adhering to established of S and X-band radars that AFTAC re- King) allow us to execute our treaty mon- lated maintenance whenever the vessel is nuclear treaties. It’s a busy mission, and lies on to provide global, high resolution, itoring responsibilities. But what makes it in port or at the shipyard. an incredibly invaluable one as well.” multi-wavelength radar data to the Mis- unique is the mission commander aboard From sea to air, Wittenberg’s Airmen TOPS is one of five squadrons within sile Defense Agency and DOD’s strategic these U.S. Navy ships is an Air Force are involved in nearly all aspects of AF- AFTAC’s wing structure, and the center’s community. company grade officer – an Airman as- TAC’s treaty monitoring responsibilities. commander had nothing but the highest “Essentially, each ship’s main job is to signed right here in TOPS. Traditionally, The center’s airborne platform is an inte- of praise for Wittenberg and his Airmen. monitor any tests of rockets using her S- the MCs are captains from the space and gral part of TOPS’ mission execution. “The Airmen of TOPS are truly just band and X-band radars. The S-band sen- missile career field and the combination Commonly referred to by the media that – the tops at what they do,” said Col. as a ‘sniffer plane,’ the WC-135 has been Steven M. Gorski, the AFTAC command- in the Air Force inventory since 1965 and er. “They are responsible for a critical link currently supports the Limited Test Ban of information that has the potential to be Treaty of 1963, which prohibits any na- up-channeled as high as the desk of the tion from testing nuclear weapons above President of the United States, and that is ground. The Constant Phoenix is the only a huge responsibility. They continuously aircraft in the USAF that conducts air demonstrate their expertise, sometimes sampling operations. The cockpit crews under austere and exhausting conditions, are from the 45th Reconnaissance Squad- and I couldn’t be more proud of them.” ron at Offutt Air Force Base, Nebraska, Wittenberg matched his commander’s while the special equipment operators are accolades. from AFTAC’s Detachment 1, also at Of- “I am humbled to be a part of such futt AFB. a tight-knit team that takes pride in per- “The WC-135 flies in direct support forming the mission,” he said. “From the of the U.S. Atomic Energy Detection youngest Airmen to the most senior civil- System and maintains the most advanced ian, I see an organization that cares for atmospheric research equipment in the each other and epitomizes the Wingman Air Force,” said Wittenberg. “The SEOs ideals. Their professionalism and team- are highly proficient and well-trained to work inspire me every day.” June 5, 2017 • 7

Military Sealift Command missile range instrumentation ship USNS Invincible makes way during sea trials following regularly scheduled yard period. The platform is designed to augment the U.S. Ballistic Missile by providing target discrimination information to U.S. Strategic Command. (U.S. Navy photo by Tommy Chia) 8 • June 5, 2017 AF showcases game-changing technologies at DOD Lab Day

By Bryan Ripple autonomy, unmanned systems, Counter–sUAS System, is de- when we look to the future, that to defend against missile threats 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs hypersonics, directed energy, veloping solutions to identify trend is not going to change,” and enhance survivability. and nano-science, all in an ef- drones, determine the source, said Bill Baron, from AFRL’s “Aircraft have been work- WASHINGTON (AFNS) – fort to ensure Airmen never en- and offer a counter measure Aerospace Systems Directorate ing to maintain air superior- Scientists and engineers from ter a fight without an advantage. when necessary. The Ninja so- at Wright-Patterson Air Force ity since aircraft were invented the Air Force Research Labo- “Our Airmen have been lution has been developed to Base, Ohio, and program man- and we’ve been trying to shoot ratory presented 16 technol- leaders in innovation for more match the pace of commercial ager for the LCAAT initiative. down aircraft since then, so ogy research projects in various than a century,” said Jeff H. drone development and keep According to Stanley, there’s an ever-present need stages of maturity during the Stanley, the deputy assistant warfighters safe. “Combining low cost attritable to improve the survivability second biennial Department of secretary of the Air Force for The Low Cost Attritable unmanned aircraft systems of our airframes,” said 2nd Lt. Defense Lab Day May 18 in the science, technology, and en- Aircraft Technology Program with autonomy will provide a Tyler Brewer, a laser defense Pentagon center courtyard. gineering. “Today we had the (LCAAT) is a research area that game changing capability that physicist from AFRL’s Direct- AFRL scientists and engi- great opportunity to showcase seeks to introduce an unmanned transforms the way we build ed Energy Directorate at Kirt- neers from across the coun- many of our science and tech- aerial vehicle system to sup- and buy and the way we fly and land AFB, New Mexico. “In try joined more than 60 Army, nology efforts. AFRL is truly at port warfighters with a lower fight. The design, logistics, and that interest, we are trying to Navy, and medical labs and en- the forefront of helping ensure cost than traditional manned operations philosophy of an at- supplement the defensive mea- gineering centers at the event our nation maintains techno- aircraft, while meeting capabil- tritable system with autonomy sures that aircraft already have which featured more than 100 logical superiority.” ity requirements for support in is revolutionary.” such as flares and chaff. With exhibits. One AFRL exhibit, called contested areas. Lower produc- Advancements in the area SHiELD, they will have active The DOD Lab Day was host- Military Applications of Gene tions costs associated with the of directed energy were also on laser systems.” ed by Mary J. Miller, the acting Editing Technology, highlight- LCAAT program will allow dif- display, including one that will Exhibits were open to mem- assistant secretary of defense ed research into how geneticists ferent classes of UAVs to aug- eventually add to the self-de- bers of Congress, high schools for research and engineering, and medical researchers edit ment manned weapon systems fense capabilities of Air Force with STEM programs, Penta- with a theme of “DOD Labs parts of the genome by remov- and have highly optimized roles tactical aircraft. gon employees, media and spe- and Warfare Centers: Solving ing, adding or altering sections for specific missions including The goal of the Self-Protect cial guests. Problems Today – Designing of the DNA sequence in order weapons delivery, locating tar- High Energy Laser Demon- AFRL is the service’s only Solutions for Tomorrow.” to remove a virus or disease gets, or communications. strator Advanced Technology organization solely dedicated Air Force scientists and en- caused by harmful chemical, “The basic problem that Demonstrator (SHiELD), is to to leading the discovery, de- gineers are advancing technol- biological or environmental we’re trying to work is to ad- combine an agile, small, high- velopment, and integration of ogies and designing solutions agents a warfighter may have dress the continued escala- power laser system on a tactical warfighting technologies for for tomorrow through game- contact with. tion of costs associated with aircraft to demonstrate an ad- the nation’s air, space, and cy- changing technologies such as Another, known as the Ninja exquisite aircraft systems and vanced self-defense capability berspace forces. Senior leaders discuss US space posture By Staff Sgt. Alyssa Gibson Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (AFNS) – On May 17, Air Force senior leaders testified before the Sen- ate Armed Service Committee Strategic Forces subcommittee on military space, organization, Ms. Retirees parade Kindel Drive policy and programs. Ms. Retiree Vickie May and Ms. Retiree Sharon Arnold parade on Kindel Drive May 26 in front of the Administration and Engineering building to celebrate their Air Force Secretary Heather retirement from Arnold Air Force Base. May retired from civil service June 1 after 33 years of service and Arnold retired from civil service June 1 after 40 years of Wilson, Air Force Chief of Staff service. (U.S. Air Force photos/Rick Goodfriend) Gen. David L. Goldfein, Gen. John Raymond, the Air Force Space Command commander and Lt. Gen. Samuel Greaves, the Space and Missile Systems Center commander, answered questions about the Air Force’s current space capabilities and those needed for the future. The team presented the senators with information as to the department’s plan for acquiring future and updated space systems to meet the evolution of space as a warfighting domain. “It’s obvious, but it’s probably worth repeating, that the U.S. is heavily dependent on space, and (our adversaries) know it is a vulnerability,” Wilson said. “In any conflict, space will be contested – and we haven’t always assumed that in the past. There’s been a change in culture Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wilson and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Goldfein testify before the Senate Armed Ser- – a change in planning and train- vices Subcommittee on Strategic Forces May 17 in Washington, D.C. With Wilson and Goldfein were Lt. Gen. Samuel Greaves, ing going on in the United States the Space and Missile Systems Center commander; Gen. John Raymond, the Air Force Space Command commander and Cris- military because we cannot take tina Chapin, the General Accounting Office director of acquisition and sourcing management. The committee examined military space dominance for granted. space organization, policy, and programs. (U.S. Air Force photo/Scott M. Ash) “While there is a lot more to normalizing, integrating and el- advantage,” Goldfein said. “And do, I’ve been initially pleased by evating space, and streamlining the final element is how -to or some of the things I see and what decision-making for the enter- ganize, train, equip and present the Air Force is doing to improve prise. Currently, the Air Force is ready forces so the combatant training, to identify gaps and to in a strategic shift from treating commander can fight should a experiment with new concepts space as a benign domain from war extend into space.” of operations,” she continued. which the service monitors, According to the AFSPC “Particularly in the last 18-24 senses and reports, to a warfight- commander, space must be on months, there’s a great deal that ing domain in which it would the same level of acquisition de- is going on with respect to ad- fight – should a war start or ex- cision authority – with deliber- dressing the needs of the nation tend into space. ate oversight of execution – as to be able to prevail in space.” According to Goldfein, the each of the other warfighting More than 80 percent of the DOD and the Air Force are fo- domains. Defense Department’s space cused on four key areas within “Operationally, we’re very actions are handled by the Air the space enterprise. First, solid sound – we’re the world’s best Force, and the service views strategy and policy must be in space forces, and that shouldn’t space as one of its core missions. place for the Joint Chiefs of Staff be lost to anybody,” Raymond “Space superiority, like air to act upon. Next, the strategy said. “I do think though…should superiority, is not an American and policy must be derived into the domain become a contested birthright – it requires vigilance a warfighting concept of opera- domain, we have to have the and action,” Goldfein said. “We tions that not only focuses on ability to move fast. And that’s have many more steps ahead of joint warfighting, but also inte- been one of my focuses – to Gen. John Raymond, the Air Force Space Command com- us, but America’s Airmen remain grates space across each warf- make sure we have the opera- mander, testifies with Secretary of the Air Force Heather Wil- committed to evolving our space ighting domain. From the con- tional policies, processes and son and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David Goldfein before organization, strategy, require- cept of operations comes solid procedures, and the acquisition the Senate Armed Services Subcommittee on Strategic Forces May 17 in Washington, D.C. Sharing the panel with them were ments, architecture and forces to acquisition requirements. capabilities to move fast.” Lt. Gen. Samuel Greaves, the Space and Missile Systems Cen- This was Wilson’s first Con- adapt…and ensure we gain and “We have to acquire at a pace ter commander and Cristina Chapin, the General Accounting maintain space superiority.” that allows us to be faster than gressional hearing since swear- Office director of acquisition and sourcing management. The The Air Force has built upon our adversaries who are all in- ing in as the 24th Secretary of committee examined military space organization, policy, and 60 years of space operations by vesting in ways to take away our the Air Force. programs. (U.S. Air Force photo/Scott M. Ash) June 5, 2017 • 9 AEDC Milestones

David Beale Stuart Coulter Glenn Liston Billy Plattenburg Marvin Sellers Mike Warren QuantiTech NAS AFRL NAS QuantiTech NAS 40 years 40 years 35 years 35 years 35 years 35 years

40 YEARS 25 YEARS Jonathan Kodman, NAS Mark Gelber, NAS Certification Level 1 David Beale, QuantiTech Gregory Fox, NAS Marilyn Graves, QuantiTech Stuart Coulter, NAS William Miller, NAS 5 YEARS Michael Ho, NAS Adam Foret, AF Warren Mullinax, NAS Jeff Chandler, QuantiTech Jake Johnson, NAS Received Contracting Officer 35 YEARS Hakita Khampakasy, NAS Warrant Glenn Liston, AF 20 YEARS OUTBOUND MILITARY Randall Magruder, NAS Billy Plattenburg, NAS Amy Foster, AF Capt. Harrison Payne, AF Terry Porter, NAS Sandra Paulus, AF Noel Pujol, QuantiTech Marcella Frix, NAS Staff Sgt. Jared Vanwey, AF Jerry Rice, NAS DOD Financial Management James Rigney, NAS Donnell Long, NAS Travis Rowe, NAS Certification Level 2 Marvin Sellers, QuantiTech Dennis Weaver, NAS RETIREMENTS Jacob Sharpe, QuantiTech Mike Warren, NAS Sharon Arnold, AF Jonathan Winegar, NAS Ralph Stebbins, AF 15 YEARS Tom Lancto, AF Master of Science degree in 30 YEARS Amy Cherry, NAS Vickie May, AF CERTIFICATES Cybersecurity Tony Clayborne, AF DeeDee Dockrey, QuantiTech Edward Crenshaw, AF Jerry Davidson, NAS Jason Larue, NAS NEW HIRES Received Contracting Officer Scott Hagler, NAS Lee Prater, NAS Sheila Downs, NAS Warrant Jeffery Mann, NAS 10 YEARS Mark Easterly, NAS Stephen Powell, NAS Tony Echols, AF Andrew Ezell, NAS Carla Curtis, AF Jerry Smith, NAS Angela Holder, NAS Jacob Floyd, NAS DOD Financial Management

Ms. Retirees parade Kindel Drive Ms. Retiree Vickie May and Ms. Retiree Sharon Arnold parade on Kindel Drive May 26 in front of the Administration and Engineering building to celebrate their retirement from Arnold Air Force Base. May retired from civil service June 1 after 33 years of service and Arnold retired from civil service June 1 after 40 years of service. (U.S. Air Force photos/Rick Goodfriend) 10 • June 5, 2017 Arnold Services completes second Rock-It Run, looking forward to 2018 event By Tanya Bryan Stephenson, Services Fitness Center Manager. Arnold AFB Services Branch These runners also received a special moisture wicking event t-shirt along with a drawstring Arnold Air Force Base Services held its backpack with various promotional items. second annual Rock-It Run May 20 at Arnold Jerry Montgomery, Rock-It Run race orga- Golf Course. nizer, said, “It was another great event and we The event consisted of an America’s Kids appreciate everyone who came out to partici- Run, a 5K and a 10K, as well as other activi- pate and support the event. We thank our spon- ties, such as music with a disc jockey and yard sor USAA for their contribution to help make games. the event possible and look forward to seeing The morning started with the America’s everyone again next year.” Kids Run, where ages 5-13 ran a 1-mile road Below are the medal winners for each cat- course at their own pace. All runners received egory: an event t-shirt along with a drawstring backpack with various promotional items regard- Women’s 5K less of finish time. Age 14-20: Natalie Todaro The America’s Kids Run is part of Armed Age 30-39: Niki Crawford Forces Day activities worldwide at all branch- Age 40-49: Becky Morris es of military bases giving children a noncompetitive outlet to express their love for the Men’s 5K sport. Families came to support their runners Age 14-20: Chavez Harden of all ages and were able to enjoy music and Age 30-39: Phillip Cornelison yard games before, during, and after the run- Age 40-49: Troy Cherry Local youth participate in the America’s Kids Run, in which ages 5-13 ran a 1-mile course at their own pace. The America’s Kids Run is part ning events. Age 50+: Jim Jolliffe of Armed Forces Day activities worldwide at all branches of military The 5K and 10K were simultaneous runs bases giving children a noncompetitive outlet to express their love for on the road course with the 10K runners mak- Women’s 10K the sport. In addition to the America’s Kids Run, a 5K and 10K were ing two laps. Timing was conducted using bibs Age 30-39: Leslie Warren held, open to people of all ages, and 10 award medals were presented with computer chips and runners were able Age 50+: Lisa Singer by Col. Rodney Todaro, AEDC Commander, and Ron Stephenson, Ser- to retrieve their finish time on the spot. Ten vices Fitness Center Manager. All runners also received a moisture award medals were given, presented by Col. Men’s 10K wicking event t-shirt and a drawstring backpack with various promo- Rodney Todaro, AEDC Commander, and Ron Age 40-49: Joe Singer tional items for participating. (Photos provided) All in a night’s work: MQ-9s maximize airpower downrange By Tech. Sgt. night in one squadron, dedication from multiple Nadine Barclay this kind of impact is squadron, maintenance, 432nd Wing/432nd Air happening daily in the intelligence and com- Expeditionary Wing attack squadrons flying munications personnel to Public Affairs in combat across the en- operate as the well-oiled terprise,” said Col. Case machine it is today. CREECH AIR Cunningham, the 432nd “Achieving this level FORCE BASE, Nev. WG commander. of execution is not solely (AFNS) – As many In 2016 alone, this on the pilots and sen- Americans sleep soundly particular squadron flew sor operators; they are in their beds, Airmen in nearly 25,000 combat backed by a highly ca- attack squadrons across hours and 1,300 com- pable and professional the 432nd Wing flying bat sorties, culminating team of intelligence ana- the MQ-1B Predator and in 520 weapon strikes lysts, support personnel MQ-9 Reaper from cock- in support of combatant and contractors, all dedi- pits in the continental commanders. The squad- cated to executing the U.S. are having decisive ron continues the pace squadron mission,” said An MQ-9 Reaper, loaded with four GBU-12 Paveway II laser-guided bombs, is effects in the fight against today with nearly 300 Lt. Col. Albert, a 432nd ready for a training mission March 31 at Creech Air Force Base, Nev. The MQ-9, violent extremism. In strikes in 2017 alone. WG squadron command- matched with a skilled aircrew, provides persistent attack and reconnaissance combat operations last “This was amazing er. “We would not be capabilities 24/7/365. (U.S. Air Force photo/Senior Airman Christian Clausen) week, one MQ-9 squad- work by one of several able to fly airplanes if it ron stood above the rest highly professional and were not for their collec- when aircrews employed combat seasoned MQ-9 tive hard work and self- 13 Hellfire missiles and squadrons we have in less attitudes.” 500-pound bombs during the 432nd Operations Despite the contribu- one eight-hour overnight Group,” said Col. Joe, tions of these Airmen, shift. the 432nd OG command- providing this capabil- These employments er. “These crews are pro- ity doesn’t come without occurred in two differ- viding combatant com- its own challenges. The ent combat arenas sepa- manders the entire ‘find, squadron is only able to rated by thousands of fix, track, target, engage, achieve these effects by miles, while the aircrew and assess’ target cycle focusing on balancing piloting the aircraft sat in a single platform.” work and personal life. just feet away from one Providing the persis- “Being deployed in another in separate cock- tent attack and recon- place makes this a par- pits in the squadron. naissance capability 24/7 ticular challenge,” Albert Over the course of the year-round is no easy said. “We deliberately night, the MQ-9 aircrew task. set our culture around employed four different “We are absolutely excellence in combat as variants of Hellfire mis- evolving the aspect of well as taking care of our siles and two variants of modern warfare and families and having fun the 500-pound bombs in proving the capability of while we do it.” close-air support while MQ-9s in every mission The commander elab- simultaneously execut- we fly, and it’s amaz- orated on how important ing over 30 hours of ing to watch the work of it was to find the middle armed reconnaissance these professional avia- ground for the greater and producing critical tors up close,” Joe said. good of the Airmen and intelligence for our na- In addition to skilled the missions assigned to tional defense. aircrew, the MQ-9 enter- the unit. “This balance “While this was one prise takes hard work and will enable us to not only excel in our current mission, but also helps us to create the next generation of well-balanced leaders for the MQ-9 community and the Air Force.” The wing focuses on winning today’s fight while also deliberately developing its Airmen with the leadership and expertise they’ll need to continue being combat leaders in tomorrow’s fight. “It’s truly humbling to work with Airmen who make such an impressive impact in the fight every single day,” Cunningham said. (Editor’s note: Last names and squadron title withheld for operational security.) June 5, 2017 • 11 Arnold Services completes second Rock-It Run, looking forward to 2018 event

Local youth participate in the America’s Kids Run, in which ran a 1-mile course at their own pace. The America’ of Armed Forces Day activities worldwide bases giving children a noncompetitive outlet to express their love the sport. In addition to the America’s Kids Run, a 5K and held, open to people of all ages, and by Col. Rodney Todaro, AEDC Commander, and Ron Stephenson, vices Fitness Center Manager. All runners also received wicking event t-shirt and a drawstring backpack tional items for participating. (Photos provided) All in a night’s work: MQ-9s maximize airpower downrange intelligence and com machine it is today. “Achieving this on the pilots and sen backed by a highly ca team of intelligence ana and contractors, all dedi

Lt. Col. WG squadron command er. “W were not for their collec tive hard work and self less attitudes.” Despite the contribu tions of these providing this capabil ity doesn’ its own challenges. achieve these ef work and personal life. place makes this a par ticular said. “W

families and having while we do it.” The commander elab

good of the

excel in our current mis to create the next gen eration of community and the Force.” winning today’s developing

leaders in tomorrow’ fight. “It’ work with Airmen make such an single day said. (Editor’ names and squadr security.) 12 • June 5, 2017