FORT RUCKER CELEBRATES ARBOR DAY. SEE PAGE 3

SERVING THE U.S. ARMY AVIATION CENTER OF EXCELLENCE AND THE FORT RUCKER COMMUNITY SINCE 1956 VOLUME 69 • NUMBER 8 • MAY 9, 2019 CWOB Aviation Branch welcomes new top chief warrant officer PAGE 2 NURSES WEEK Lyster celebrates National Nurses Week PAGE 3 RETIREES 16 Soldiers, 2 civilians retire during quarterly ceremony PAGE 6 HERITAGE MONTH Soldiers perform Chinese Dragon Dance at kickoff event PAGE 8 GI BILL Deadline to transfer benefits in NASA PHOTO Astronaut Lt. Col. Anne McClain takes a selfie during a 6 ½-hour spacewalk to upgrade the orbital complex’s power storage capacity March 22. McClain, one of five July Soldiers in the Army Space and Missile Defense Command’s astronaut detachment, is currently on a six-month mission in space. For more, see Page 4. PAGE 9 2 ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019

By Kelly P. Morris two of you here,” Gayler said. USAACE Public Affairs Koziol comes to Fort Rucker from his most recent assignment as Army Aviation Soldiers, family and friends, and mem- Standardization Officer, Headquarters bers of the Wiregrass community gathered Department of the Army deputy chief of on Fort Rucker to witness a leadership tran- staff, Army G-3/5/7, , D.C. sition from the outgoing to the incoming His previous assignments also include chief warrant officer of the Aviation Branch serving with cavalry squadrons in Germany during a ceremony at the U.S. Army Aviation and Korea. Museum May 3. His aircraft qualifications include the CW5 Jonathan P. Koziol, incoming chief OH-58A/C, the UH-1, the AH-1F, the AH- warrant officer of the Aviation branch, for- 64A, AH-64D, and AH-64E. mally assumed responsibility from CW5 Koziol thanked friends and family for Joseph B. Roland as a charter was passed attending the ceremony, and he thanked from Roland to Koziol by ceremony host Maj. Gayler for the opportunity to serve. PHOTO BY KELLY MORRIS Gen. William K. Gayler, U.S. Army Aviation “Major General Gayler, thanks for your CW5 Jonathan P. Koziol, incoming chief warrant officer of the Aviation branch, receives the charter as Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker com- trust and confidence to allow Kyle and I passed to him from Maj. Gen. William K. Gayler, U.S. Army Aviation Center of Excellence and Fort Rucker manding general. to come back to this wonderful Wiregrass commanding general, as Koziol formally assumes responsibility from CW5 Joseph B. Roland during a “Today is a bittersweet day where we community. More importantly, to continue change of charter ceremony in the U.S. Army Aviation Museum May 3. say farewell and we honor Joe and Kathy as to serve the branch, the greatest warfighting they depart, and we welcome John and Kyle,” force on this planet. I’m humbled, and I look and thousands not only here but across our officer” he has worked with, family, as well as Gayler said. forward to the opportunity to take my good formations,” Gayler said. personnel across the installation. According to Gayler, because Army fortune and pay it forward,” he said. Roland helped redesign the aviation Roland’s theme was team, including Aviation is such a technical and diverse He thanked leaders who served before warrant officer advanced course, assisted in “teammates, team players, team work,” he branch, experts are needed in many areas. him, including Roland. the development of the standardization and said. The CWOB is a hand-selected position that “Joe, you’ve done a superb job. You set maintenance standard operating procedures, Going forward, the branch will be in is “vital to the branch,” he said. the bar high,” Koziol said. “And to the war- and has led and played a key role in the risk good hands with the Koziols onboard, ac- The CWOB serves the senior warrant of- fighters out there on the flight line, aircrew assessment (risk common operating picture). cording to Roland. ficer for the branch to advise the branch chief members manned and unmanned, folks de- He provided oversight to warrant officer re- “We couldn’t have asked for a better team on all matters concerning warrant officers veloping the requirements, the dirty jobs that cruitment and branch awareness, helped re- than you and Kyle to come in and take over,” and their families, including warrant officer aren’t as much fun as flying, creating the doc- design aviation instructor pilot courses and Roland said. “You’re going to make the team training, professional development, morale, trine that we’ll fight by, I really do thank you.” was at forefront of the aviation warfighting better. Your personality is perfect. You check accessions, retention and other areas impact- Koziol said he looks forward to working initiative, Gayler explained. all the blocks, and the only one that really ing readiness. with the USAACE team. Gayler said it takes family to keep lead- matters is you care.” Gayler said he has been “privileged” to Gayler also thanked the Rolands for their ers going, and keep them grounded, and he He also thanked the Wiregrass commu- have known Koziol since 2003. service to Army Aviation, which “could not thanked Roland’s wife, Kathy, for her sup- nity for their support. “We have served with them several times be overstated,” Gayler said. port. “All you have to do is go to a quarterly in the past and I can tell you there’s no oth- “You’ll see Joe running around down on “Joe and Kathy are certainly the epitome retirement ceremony to see how many folks er professional that could come in and be as the flight line, you’ll see him in classrooms, of that tremendous Army family,” Gayler retire out of service and retire right here in skilled, as balanced, and as humbled to as- you‘ll see him TDY visiting Soldiers from our said. this community. It’s because of the care that sume the role of chief warrant of the branch aviation force around the globe, and he’s pro- Roland in his remarks thanked God as you take to make sure Soldiers and their fam- as John Koziol. We are blessed to have the vided mentorship and guidance to thousands “the greatest coach ever,” Gayler as the “finest ilies are taken care of,” Roland said. ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019 3

PHOTO BY JENNY STRIPLING Lt. Col. Jimmie J. Tolvert, LAHC commander, along with Lyster nurses Patrisha Twyman, left, and Rebecca Merritt, cut a cake during the National Nurses Week celebration May 6 at the clinic. PHOTOS BY JIM HUGHES About 20 Fort Rucker youth helped the Directorate of Family, and Morale, Welfare and Recreation, By Jenny Stripling our hard working and dedicated nurses this and the Directorate of Public Works celebrate Arbor Day April 26 during a tree planting ceremony near LAHC Public Affairs week and every week,” said Lt. Col. Jimmie J. the Center Library. The library staff also hosted a story time session just prior to the tree planting. The Tolvert, commander of Lyster Army Health children, assisted by DFMWR and DPW officials, planted a Florida maple, a kumquat tree and a tulip Lyster Army Health Clinic honors its Clinic. “Nurses are the heart and soul of pa- tree. nurses May 6-12 during National Nurses tient care.” Week. Traditionally, National Nurses Week is During the week, hospitals and clinics devoted to highlighting the diverse ways throughout the nation focus attention on the in which nurses, who comprise the largest diverse ways America’s nurses work to save health care profession, are working to im- lives and improve the health of millions of prove health care. From bedside nursing in individuals. hospitals and long-term care facilities to the Annually, National Nurses Week begins halls of research institutions, state legislatures on May 6 and ends on May 12, the birthday and Congress, the depth and breadth of the of Florence Nightingale, founder of nursing nursing profession is meeting the expanding as a modern profession. health care needs of American society. During the week, nurses at Lyster Army LAHC nurses are the caregivers, com- Health Clinic are honored with a cake cut- municators, patient advocates and decision ting ceremony, ice cream social, a lunch and makers. LAHC is proud to recognize its learn, and many other fun activities. nurses for the quality work they provide sev- “We’re very excited to celebrate all of en days a week, 365 days a year. 4 ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019

By Kelly P. Morris her well in her current endeavor. USAACE Public Affairs “From Day 1, I’ve always been judged on my merits and what I brought to the team. The Home of Army Aviation had the rare And there’s a high bar. We joke with each opportunity to link up directly via live video- other a lot, but, at the end of the day, we are conference with a senior Army aviator cur- a tight group and we rely on each other with rently serving as a National Aeronautics and our lives every day,” she said. Space Administration astronaut onboard the The live videoconference with McClain International Space Station May 1. also provided an opportunity for permanent Lt. Col. Anne C. McClain, a former party captains who are considering the ex- NASA PHOTOS OH-58D Kiowa Warrior aviator who is cur- perimental test pilot course, as well as Fort Astronaut Lt. Col. Anne McClain is pictured in the cupola holding biomedical gear for an experiment that rently serving as a NASA flight engineer at Rucker medical professionals and people measures fat changes in the bone marrow before and after exposure to microgravity. McClain, one of five the ISS, was selected in 2013 as one of eight who previously served under her leadership, Soldiers in the Army Space and Missile Defense Command’s astronaut detachment, is currently on a six- members of the 21st NASA astronaut class. to participate in a question-and-answer ses- month mission in space. She is currently part of the /59 sion with her. crew, and along with Russian cosmonaut Topics included the similarities between when she was in command (at Fort Rucker) with 2nd Battalion, and Canadian astronaut the decision making required on missions and express to her how much we care about at Wheeler Army Airfield, , as an air Dr. David Saint-Jacques, she is scheduled to as an astronaut and previous missions as an her, and how excited we are that she made it traffic control platoon leader, aviation inter- return to Earth in July. Army aviator; what life is like on the ISS, in- and is doing what she’s doing,” Jacobson said. mediate maintenance platoon leader, and McClain spoke directly with approxi- cluding preparation for space walks, gravity McClain was commissioned as an Army detachment commander. mately 50 Army Aviation professionals gath- and how she stays connected to family; and officer in 2002 and immediately attended She served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, ered at the Seneff Building here about her about the monitoring and care of astronauts graduate school. Her studies at the University flying more than 800 combat hours on 216 current job, and her roots in Army Aviation. from a medical and psychological perspec- of Bath focused on the unsteady aerodynam- combat missions as pilot-in-command and “The best people I’ve worked with in the tive. ics and flow visualization of free-to-roll non- air mission commander. Army are sitting in that room right now, and According to Brian Jacobson, a slender delta wings and her research was lat- McClain was assigned to 1st Battalion, I can’t tell you how much I appreciated serv- Department of the Army civilian with the er published through the American Institute 14th Aviation Regiment at Fort Rucker as the ing with them and the lessons I learned from Combined Arms Division here who co- of Aeronautics and Astronautics. She also battalion operations officer and OH-58D in- them, and if I make you guys proud I’ve ac- ordinated the videoconference, one of the researched the security burden in developing structor pilot. She was appointed command- complished something,” McClain said. goals for the event was to show support for countries at nearby University of Bristol. er of C Troop, 1st Battalion, 14th Aviation McClain explained that growing up in McClain from the Army Aviation commu- Following graduate school, McClain Regiment, responsible for the Army’s initial Army Aviation gave her a backbone. It taught nity. earned her wings as an OH-58D Kiowa entry training, instructor pilot training, and her what true camaraderie is, and what it “We thought it would be nice if she got a Warrior scout/attack helicopter pilot. maintenance test pilot training in the OH- means to be a leader, all of which have served chance to talk to the people that flew with her She began her operational flying career 58D. ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019 5

McClain, wearing the spacesuit with red stripes, and Air Force Col. work to retrieve batteries and adapter plates from an external pallet during a spacewalk to upgrade the ISS’ power storage capacity March 22. ASTRONAUT cont. She completed Command and General Jacobson said. Staff College and the C-12 fixed wing mul- The opportunity to communicate from tiengine qualification courses in 2011 and Fort Rucker with McClain in orbit aboard 2012. She then attended the U.S. Naval Test the ISS was “a once in a lifetime opportunity,” Pilot School, graduating in June 2013. Jacobson added. McClain has logged more than 2,000 Retiree Jim Kalahan, who formerly flight hours in 20 different rotary and fixed- served with McClain at Fort Rucker and par- wing aircraft. She is a rated pilot and instruc- ticipated in the videoconference, said he was tor pilot in the OH-58D Kiowa Warrior, and proud of her and her accomplishments. a rated pilot in the UH-60 Black Hawk, UH- He described McClain’s leadership style 72 Lakota and C-12 Huron (King Air). Her as one in which everyone started out on a awards include the , Air level playing field. Medal with Valor, two Air Medals, two Army “Being active duty for 32 years … I can Commendation Medals, and numerous oth- tell you, hands down, bar none, (she’s) the er awards and decorations. best commander I ever had in my military Participants said they continue to follow career,” Kalahan said. McClain’s journey into space in the news and Russell W. Kruse, deputy chief for stan- via the Internet and NASA television pro- dardization for 110th Aviation Brigade, said gramming. he will continue to expect great things from “I watch her spacewalks. They are busy, her in the future. and there’s so much going on, with experi- “If there’s a NASA Next, she’ll be part of ments they’re doing, and it’s just incredible it, whether it’s the south part of the moon or McClain poses for a photograph with her 4-year-old son before she launched to the ISS in early December. from all aspects, from science to technology,” to Mars,” Kruse said. 6 ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019

Retirees gather for a photograph prior to the April 26 Fort Rucker Quarterly Retirement Ceremony at the PHOTOS BY JIM HUGHES U.S. Army Aviation Museum. Back row: CW5 Lynwood Saville, CW4 Matthew Hertl, Sgt. 1st Class Gerald Back row: CW2 Timothy Bedsole, CW4 William Henderson, CW3 Jay Hanshaw, CW5 Michael McKinney and Joseph, CW4 Michael Becker and CW5 Michael Fiala. Front row: 1st Sgt. David Green, CW3 Betty Gonzalez, CW5 Devin Rich. Front row: CW3 Ryan Brokaw, Sandra Edwards, Command Sgt. Maj. Marvin Pinckney and Staff Sgt. Denise De La Torre and 1st Sgt. Shlonda Calhoun. Rick Russell. By Jim Hughes officer flight training in 1996. He served his wife, Elizabeth, have three children. They 1996, going directly into warrant officer flight Fort Rucker Public Affairs multiple combat tours in support of opera- plan to reside in Enterprise. training. He served combat tours in support tions Iraqi Freedom, New Dawn, Enduring of operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. Freedom and Resolute Support. He said the CW5 DEVIN RICH He said the highlights of his career were With a combined 451 years of service highlight of his career was being a standard- Rich, 164th Theater Airfield Operations working with the best, most highly trained to the nation, 16 Soldiers and two civilians ization instructor pilot with the U.S. Army Group standardization officer, entered mil- professionals in the world, being involved in retired from service during the Fort Rucker Aviation Center of Excellence Directorate itary service in 1996 as a cavalry scout. He shaping the future of Army Aviation while Quarterly Retirement Ceremony April 26 at of Evaluation and Standardization at Fort was selected for warrant officer flight train- at Fort Rucker and being the first compa- the U.S. Army Aviation Museum. Rucker. He and his wife, Kristine, have three ing in 1999. He served multiple combat tours ny standardization pilot to field the UH-72 Col. Brian E. Walsh, Fort Rucker garrison children. They plan to reside in Enterprise. in support of operations Iraqi and Enduring Lakota. He and his wife, Sharron, have one commander, hosted the ceremony with as- Freedom. He said the highlight of his career child. They plan to reside in Granbury, Texas. sistance from Command Sgt. Maj. Jasper C. CW5 LYNWOOD T. SAVILLE was flying the Mi-17 with Afghanistan’s spe- Johnson, garrison command sergeant major. Saville, director of standardizations for cial mission pilots in support of counter-ter- CW4 MICHAEL J. BECKER Short write-ups on each retiree follow. the USAACE DES, entered military service in ror narcotics operations. He and his wife, Becker, DES Cargo Branch chief, entered 1994, going directly to warrant officer flight Jessica, have three children. They plan to military service in 1994 as a Marine security CW5 MICHAEL C. FIALA training. He served multiple combat deploy- reside in Grand Junction, Colorado. guard. He was selected for Army warrant of- Fiala, B Company, 1st Battalion, 13th ments in Iraq and Afghanistan. He said the ficer flight training in 2002. He served mul- Aviation Regiment Fixed Wing Branch highlight of his career was the relationships CW5 MICHAEL T. MCKINNEY tiple combat tours in support of operations chief, entered military service in 1987 as an and lifelong friends he made through many McKinney, 1-212th Avn. Regt. chief of Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. He said the infantryman. He was selected for warrant adventures and different airframes. He and standardization, entered military service in highlight of his career was serving alongside ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019 7 RETIREES cont. the tremendous warriors that protect the na- Enterprise. 2010. He served multiple combat tours in entered military service in 1995 as a Bradley tion. Becker and his wife, Nicole, have two support of operations in Afghanistan. He turret mechanic and later became an air children. They plan to reside somewhere in CW3 RYAN BROKAW said the highlight of his career was being a traffic controller. He served multiple combat the Midwest. Brokaw, 71st Military Police Detachment training, advising and counseling officer at tours in Iraq and Afghanistan. He said the (Criminal Investigation Command) com- the WOCC. He and his wife, Jennifer, have highlight of his career was when he became CW4 WILLIAM M. HENDERSON mander, entered military service in 1999 as six children. They plan to reside in Slocomb. a born-again believer in his Lord and sav- Henderson, B Co., 1-13th Avn. Regt. a counterintelligence agent. He was selected ior, Jesus Christ. He and his wife, Yolanda, Standardization Utility Branch chief, en- to attend the CID special agent course in COMMAND SGT. MAJ. MARVIN A. PINCKNEY have three children. They plan to reside in tered military service in 1999 as a UH-60 2003, graduating first in his class. He served Pinckney, 1-11th Avn. Regt. command Jacksonville, Florida. Black Hawk crew chief. He was selected for two combat tours in support of operations sergeant major, entered military service in warrant officer flight training in 2001. He Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. He said the 1989 and an air traffic control operator. He STAFF SGT. DENISE M. DE LA TORRE served multiple combat tours in support of highlights of his career were being selected served multiple combat tours in support of De La Torre, dental NCO at the Brown operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. He for advanced civilian schooling as a forensic operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom, Dental Clinic at Fort Rucker, entered mil- said the highlight of his career was serving science officer and obtaining his master’s and New Dawn. He said the highlight of his itary service in 1999 as a dental technician. alongside the uniformed men and women of degree. He and his wife, Kristen, have three career was jumping out of perfectly flying She said the highlight of her career was being the nation during his combat tours. He and children. They plan to reside in Lancaster aircraft on purpose. He has two children. He able to serve her country like her father and his wife, Lucy, have two children. They plan County, Pennsylvania. said he plans to hop on his Harley and tour grandfather did. She and her husband, Jesus to reside in Texas. the country. plan to reside in Columbus, Georgia. CW3 JAY HANSHAW CW4 MATTHEW H. HERTL Hanshaw, 1-212th Avn. Regt. chief of 1ST SGT. SHLONDA N. CALHOUN RICK RUSSELL Hertl, USAACE Flight Training Branch standardization and maintenance examiner, Calhoun, logistics NCO in charge at Russell, 110th Aviation Brigade chief of training developer and guest instructor entered military service in 1999 as a UH-60 Brooke Arm Medical Center at Joint Base academics, retired after 44 years of distin- pilot, entered military service in 1994 as a Black Hawk mechanic and crew chief. He San Antonio, Texas, entered military service guished service. He served on active duty transportation officer. He was selected for was the Fort Bragg, North Carolina Soldier in 1993 as a medical supply logistician. She from 1975 to 2003 in field artillery and avia- warrant officer flight training in 2002. He of the Year in 2002 and later that year the has served multiple combat tours in support tion. He said the highlights of his career were served multiple combat tours in support of Army Soldier of the Year. After deployments of operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. serving as standards officer at the National operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom. He to Iraq, Afghanistan and Bosnia, and a tour She said the highlight of her career was tak- Military Command Center, Joint Staff, as said the highlight of his career was being a to South America, he decided to become an ing care of the Army’s most precious assets well as nuclear code administrator for the Stetson trooper and Alpha 3-10 Warangel. Army pilot, and served in multiple combat – Soldiers and their families. She plans to president of the United States of America. He He said he plans to continue flying. tours in support of operations Iraqi and reside in Pensacola, Florida. and his wife, Katherine, have two children Enduring Freedom. He said the highlight of and 2 ½ grandchildren. They plan to reside CW3 BETTY W. GONZALEZ his career was doing his best to make a dif- 1ST SGT. DAVID W. GREEN in Louisiana. Gonzalez, 597th Air Traffic Services ference and to help where help was needed Green, air traffic control operations chief Maintenance Detachment materiel manager, – no matter what. He has two children. He for the Headquarters and Headquarters SANDRA R. EDWARDS entered military service in 1997 as an auto- plans to reside in Enterprise with his fiancée, Company, 164th TAOG, entered military Edwards, Logistics Readiness Center mated logistical specialist. She was selected Martee. service in 1994 as an air traffic controller. accountable officer for the Supply Support for warrant officer supply systems technician He served multiple combat tours in Iraq and Activity, Supply Support Division, retired af- training in 2009. She served multiple com- CW2 TIMOTHY K. BEDSOLE JR. Afghanistan. He said the highlight of his ca- ter 38 years of distinguished service. She said bat tours in support of operations Iraqi and Bedsole, Warrant Officer Career College reer was marrying his beautiful wife, Megan, the highlight of her career was receiving a Enduring Freedom, and Joint Forge. She training, advising and counseling officer, en- and having three wonderful children. They nomination for the woman of the year award said the highlight of her career was meeting tered military service in 2001 as a fire direc- plan to reside in New Brockton. and working with many wonderful people her husband, Christopher, who has been the tional controller. He was selected for Army throughout the years. She and her husband, pillar of her success in the military. They Warrant Officer Candidate School as an air SGT. 1ST CLASS GERALD D. JOSEPH Sidney, have several godchildren. They plan have two children. They plan to reside in traffic airspace management technician in Joseph, Skelly Stagefield facility chief, to reside in Ozark. 8 ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019

By Katie Lange Defense Media Activity

WASHINGTON – Rodney Yano was born on the Big Island of Hawaii nearly two years to the day after the U.S. entered World War II. His grandparents had immigrated to the U.S. from Japan well before that. According to the Congressional Medal of Honor Society, he’s one of 33 Asian- Americans to receive the Medal of Honor. Yano joined the Army in 1961 before graduating from high school. He rose to the rank of staff sergeant and was on his second tour of Vietnam when he became an air crew- Fort Rucker Soldiers volunteered to go to Troy University to learn the Dragon Dance, a traditional man with the 11th Air Cavalry Regiment. Yano ARMY PHOTO Chinese dance, and then performed it at the Asian American Pacific Islander Heritage Month kickoff On Jan. 1, 1969, Yano was the acting crew the ship, as they say. The initial grenade ex- event May 3 at the post exchange food court. The event also featured educational materials, other chief and one of two door gunners on his plosion partially blinded him and left him dancers, music numbers and a free food tasting. (Photos by Jim Hughes) company’s command-and-control helicop- with the use of only one arm, but he jumped ter as it fought an enemy entrenched in the into action anyway, kicking and throwing dense Vietnamese jungle near Bien Hao. the blazing ammunition from the helicopter The chopper was taking direct fire from until the flaming pieces were gone and the below, but Yano managed to use his machine smoke filtered out. gun to suppress the enemy’s assault. He was One man on the helicopter was killed, also able to toss grenades that emitted white and Yano didn’t survive his many injuries. phosphorous smoke at their positions so his But his courage and concern for his com- troop commander could accurately fire artil- rades’ survival kept the chopper from going lery at their entrenchments. down, averting more loss of life. Unfortunately, one of those grenades For that, Yano was posthumously pro- exploded too early, covering Yano in the moted to the rank of sergeant first class. On burning chemical and causing severe burns. April 7, 1970, his parents received the Medal Fragments of the grenade also caught sup- of Honor from President Richard Nixon. plies in the helicopter on fire, including am- In his honor, the cargo carrier USNS munition, which detonated. White smoke Yano was named for him, as well as a heli- filled the chopper, and the pilots weren’t able copter maintenance facility at Fort Rucker, to see to maintain control of the aircraft. The Alabama, and a library at Schofield Barracks, situation wasn’t looking good. Hawaii. But Yano wasn’t ready to go down with ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019 9

By Devon L. Suits til they are found fit for duty under the new Army News Service DOD policy. “For Purple Heart recipients, [all] these rules do not apply,” Godinez said. WASHINGTON – Soldiers with over 16 Prior to the new policy, there were no years of service who want to transfer their restrictions on when a Soldier could transfer Right: Shelia Jackson and her son, Post-9/11 GI Bill to a dependent must do their education benefits. Patrick Jackson, perform a rendition so before July 12, or risk losing the ability to Since 2009, over 1 million Soldiers have of ‘Amazing Grace’ at the National transfer education benefits. transferred their GI Bill benefits, Godinez Prayer Breakfast May 2 at The Last year, the Department of Defense im- said. Landing on Fort Rucker. They were plemented a new Post-9/11 GI Bill Transfer “To transfer their GI Bill, Soldiers have to accompanied on keyboard by Willie of Education Benefits eligibility requirement, go into milConnect website, login with their Williams. which instituted a “six- to 16-year cutoff common access card, then select the ‘transfer rule,” said Master Sgt. Gerardo T. Godinez, my education benefits’ tab,” Godinez said. Below: Retired Chaplain (Col.) retention operations NCO with Army G-1. If a Soldier needs additional help, they Alvin M. ‘Sonny’ Moore III speaks Further, Soldiers who want to transfer can visit their installation’s education coun- to a packed house at the National their education entitlement must have at selor or servicing career counselor. In July, Prayer Breakfast at The Landing least six years of service, he said. All Soldiers the new rules will be in effect and those May 2. The event featured prayers must commit to an additional four years of Soldiers with more than 16 years of service for the nation, the military and Fort service to transfer their GI Bill. will not be eligible to transfer education ben- Rucker; music; Moore as keynote However, Soldiers who are currently go- efits. speaker; and, of course, breakfast. ing through the medical evaluation board “Soldiers need to [review this benefit] to PHOTOS BY JIM HUGHES process cannot transfer GI Bill benefits un- make an educated decision,” he said.

PHOTO BY PAT MOLNAR 10 ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019 FROM DFMWR FLYING DISC DOUBLES 255-2997. Attendees are welcome to bring their lunch. to the first 60 to register and is open to au- Grab a friend and register for the Fort For more information or to register, call thorized patrons only. For more information Rucker Flying Disc Doubles happening May MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH 255-3885. or to register, call 255-2594. 11. Divisions include: advanced doubles, The Landing will host its Mother’s Day intermediate doubles, recreational doubles Brunch May 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. VOLUNTEER RECOGNITION CEREMONY THE GREATEST GIFT and coed doubles. A minimum of four Reservations are not required, but are ACS will host the second quarter vol- Children require a lot of supervision teams must be signed up for a division to highly encouraged. To make reservations or unteer recognition ceremony May 15 from and care, which demands a lot of you, the be played. Pre-registration fee is $70 per for more information, call The Landing at 10-11 a.m. at The Landing. Volunteers will caregiver. The Fort Rucker New Parent team. Day of registration fee is $90 per team. 255-0769. Pricing: adults, $18.95; ages 6-12, be recognized and celebrated for their out- Support Program will host the second part Free registration is available for active-duty $8.95; ages 3-5, $4.95; ages 2 and younger standing work in the Fort Rucker communi- of its two-part class, The Greatest Gift, May Soldiers, but does not include a players eat for free; and the Military Family Special ty. For more information, call 255-3161 or 16 at 10 a.m. at the Center Library. Learn pack. People can pre-register at the Fort for two adults and up to two children, $49. 255-9888. how to care for yourself while still caring for Rucker Physical Fitness Center. Players your family. Find out what causes stress and competing for Commander’s Cup points OZARK BUS TOUR SPIN AND FITNESS CHALLENGE different ways to manage it. Pre-registration must play for their company or battalion MWR Central will host a free day trip to As part of the Army STRONG is required by May 12. The event is open to team. Prodigy Players Pack includes a mini, Ozark May 13 from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. B.A.N.D.S. program, the Fortenberry- all authorized patrons. For more informa- premium stamped disc, and a regular disc. Participants will visit downtown Ozark, Colton PFC will host a two-hour fitness tion, call 255-9647 or 255-3359. Awards will be given following the event. complete with photo opportunities, shop- challenge May 16 starting at 5:30 p.m. The The event is open to the public for ages 18 ping, Ed Lisenby Lake and the Rudd Art event is open to all authorized PFC patrons CAREER BUILDING WORKSHOP and older. Center. The tour will also include valuable for $3.50, or people can use their class cards. The Fort Rucker Youth Center will host For more information or to register, call information for newcomers on schools, city There will be door prizes and refreshments a career building workshop May 16 from 255-2296. People can also register online government and recreational opportunities; at each challenge. For more information, 4-5 p.m. The workshop is designed to be with Eventbrite at https://www.eventbrite. and a complimentary lunch at the historic call 255-3794. interactive, motivating and fun. Applying com/e/fort-rucker-flying-disc-doubles-tour- The Holman House. Pre-registration is the skills you learn in the workshop will nament-tickets-58317693792. required to participate. Free childcare is FEDERAL JOB WORKSHOP help you to find a job, pursue your educa- available for registered child and youth If you’re interested in working for the tion goals or even start a business. TWO-MAN BUDDY BASS TOURNAMENT services patrons – register your children at federal government, but you’re mystified Attendees will also have an increased Fort Rucker Outdoor Recreation will the child development center by calling 255- by the federal hiring process, or maybe confidence in their ability to be successful host its Two-Man Buddy Bass Tournament 2262 at least 24 hours prior to the tour. Seats just frustrated by your repeated attempts with their career goals, according to youth May 11 from 6 a.m. to 2 p.m. Entry fee is are limited. To sign up, call 255-2997. to put together an effective and impactful center officials. The workshop will cover $100 per two-man team – there are only 25 USAJOBS.gov resume, then make plans to good customer service, how to be a valued slots available. The Top 3 weigh-in totals FINANCIAL READINESS LUNCH & LEARN attend ACS’ federal job workshop May 16 employee, appropriate work behavior and will receive a cash prize. There will be a Army Community Service will present from 8 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. in Bldg. 5700, how to handle workplace challenges. Those cash prize for biggest fish and also door a Financial Readiness Lunch & Learn for Rm. 284, with a hands-on breakout session who are looking for work, wanting to enroll prize giveaways. Participants must have an Soldiers and their spouses May 14 at the from 1:15-2:15 p.m. The workshop is aimed in school or trying to make money this Alabama State Fishing License, Fort Rucker Center Library starting at noon. This event at getting you the information you need to summer by having their own small business Post Fishing Permit, and Fort Rucker Boater will give you the information you need increase your federal employment possi- will benefit from learning these concepts. Safety Completion Card. This event is open to make the most of your money, prepare bilities. Participants will receive a free copy For more information, call 255-2271 or to the public. People can register at ODR for savings or investments, or manage of Kathryn Troutman’s “Jobseeker’s Guide” 255-2260. or MWR Central. For more information, your credit and debt. The event is open (7th Edition). Registration is required two call ODR at 255-4305 or MWR Central at to Soldiers and their family members. days prior to the workshop. Space is limited ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019 11

WWII EVENT: BATTLE OF MIDWAY PFC or MWR Central. or the CDC at 255-2262. The Center Library will host its May WWII event titled “Battle of Midway,” PARENT DATE NIGHT RESILIENCY AND FALLEN HEROES DAY AT THE LAKE May 16 at noon in the U.S. Army Aviation Fort Rucker parents are welcome to As part of the Army STRONG Museum. The free event will be led by CW5 make plans now to drop their children off B.A.N.D.S. program, ODR will host the Fort Chris Braund. The event is open to the pub- for Parent Date Night May 17 from 6-10 rucker Day at the Lak May 18 from 11 a.m. lic. For more information, call 255-3885. p.m. at the school age center and CDC. to 4 p.m. The event serves as the opening of Register your children at either the the West Beach swim season and features YOUTH TALENT SHOW school age center or the CDC, as both will free swimming, inflatables for children, and The Fort Rucker Youth Center will host be offering the Parent Date Night. use of the canoes, kayaks and paddle boats. a talent show May 17 at 5 p.m. Youth in Must be prepaid and registered at the Food and beverages will be available for grades 6-12 or ages 11-18 are invited to attending facility – no refunds. Cost is $25 purchase with credit or debit cards. Pets and take part or attend. The event is open to the for the first child and $20 for each additional glass containers are prohibited on the beach. public. For more information, call 255-2260 child (in the same immediate family). For The event is open to the public. For more or 255-2271. more information and to make a reserva- information, call 255-4305. tion, call the school age center at 255-9108 NEWCOMERS WELCOME ACS will host its next newcomers welcome May 17 from 9-11:30 a.m. at The Landing. Active-duty military, spouses, Breakfast served ALL DAY foreign students, Army civilians and family members are all encouraged to attend this Saturday, Sunday and Holidays informative event. A free light breakfast and coffee will be served. For free childcare, register children at the CDC by calling 255- 3564. Reservations must be made 24 hours prior to the newcomers welcome. For more information, call 255-3735.

5K AND DUATHLON The Fort Rucker Resiliency 5k and Duathlon in Remembrance of Fallen Heroes is scheduled for May 18 at 8 a.m. at Lake Tholocco. The free event offers activities for the entire family while honoring the nation’s fallen heroes. Participants can run or walk, or just stop by to visit the numerous resiliency fair booths. The event promotes resiliency within the Fort Rucker communi- ty and will showcase information to improve physical, mental, spiritual and social wellbeing. The event is open to the public, DIVOTS and is stroller and leashed pet friendly. For RESTAURANT & GRILLE more information, call 255-2296. People can pre-register at either the Fortenberry-Colton 12 ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019

By Kimberly Hanson Army News Service REDSTONE ARSENAL – Three major FOR MAY 10 - 30 actions must happen to course correct the Friday, May 10 state of Army housing, said the four-star Us (R) ...... 7 p.m. General Officer responsible for Installation Management during a forum with the Saturday, May 11 presidents of the Residential Community Little (PG-13) ...... 4 p.m. Initiative companies, April 26. Us (R) ...... 7 p.m. During an RCI CEO roundtable at Sunday, May 12 Redstone Arsenal, Alabama, to address Wonder Park (PG) ...... 1 p.m. widespread reports of deficient housing Little (PG-13) ...... 4 p.m. conditions, Army Materiel Command Commander Gen. Gus Perna told the seven Thursday, May 16 Dragged Across Concrete (R) ...... 7 p.m. executives responsible for privatized hous- ing across the Army to maintain focus on Friday, May 17 Soldiers and families through the phases. Pet Sematary (R) ...... 7 p.m. “The bottom line is that we must win back the trust of our residents,” Perna said. Saturday, May 18 Dumbo (PG) ...... 4 p.m. “It is about action, not words.” PHOTO BY DAWN ARDEN The Best of Enemies (PG-13) ...... 7 p.m. First, the current focus and response to the issues must continue, including timely Army leaders ask a military family to respond to a survey as part of an Army-wide effort to resolve Sunday, May 19 completion of work orders, proper quality inadequate housing on installations. Dumbo (PG) ...... 1 p.m. Shazam! (PG-13) ...... 4 p.m. control measures to ensure standards are each RCI partner has developed a mobile app housing offices. Army housing offices exist met, quarterly town halls to keep residents intended to improve communication flow. to support all military families, and can be Thursday, May 23 informed and additional oversight and in- Training for Army leaders who manage in- advocates or support to those who are having Pet Sematary (R) ...... 7 p.m. volvement by garrison commanders, said stallations is also now a requirement. issues in their homes. Perna. “Previously, many garrison commanders Third, long-term planning to prevent a Friday, May 24 Aladdin (PG) ...... 4 & 7 p.m. “The metric is not about quantity – how didn’t see RCI oversight as one of their key reoccurrence and maintain momentum is many work orders are completed or how responsibilities,” said Lt. Gen. Brad Becker, critical, said Perna. To this end, discussion Saturday, May 25 much we have done,” he said. “It is about commander of Installation Management topics ranged from 5-year development plans Aladdin (PG) ...... 4 & 7 p.m. quality and our response to the very real and Command. to improvements in the move-in and move- serious issues being reported. Our Soldiers IMCOM has since instituted a 90-minute out process ahead of the summer surge. Sunday, May 26 Aladdin (PG) ...... 1 & 4 p.m. and families need to know we are taking care block of training for all incoming garrison A common theme across the table was of them.” commanders, and rolled out training for all that success will require a strong partnership Thursday, May 30 Second, the Army and the partners must current garrison commanders, focused on between the Army and RCI leaders. Aladdin (PG) ...... 7 p.m. improve communication and rebuild confi- their housing responsibilities, Becker said. “Both of us need to be held accountable dence with Soldiers and families. Educating IMCOM is also focused on educating res- to our roles and responsibilities,” Perna said. residents on the resources available to them idents about the resources available to them The forum was the first in what will be- TICKETS ARE $6 FOR ADULTS AND $5 FOR is critical, said Perna. within the Army housing offices on each in- come a regular meeting between Perna and CHILDREN, 12 AND UNDER. MILITARY I.D. CARDHOLDERS AND THEIR GUESTS ARE In addition to Army hotlines established stallation, Becker said, which many families the housing partner executives. WELCOME. SCHEDULE SUBJECT TO CHANGE. at each installation to report housing issues, don’t realize are unaffiliated with the RCI FOR MORE INFORMATION, CALL 255-2408. ARMY FLIER | MAY 9, 2019 13 NEWS IN BRIEF ROAD RESURFACING AER and contribute to those in need in the THRIFT SHOP Road crews are resurfacing the section CHANGE OF COMMAND Fort Rucker community, visit https://www. The Fort Rucker Thrift Shop is open of Andrews Avenue between the Enterprise The 1st Battalion, 212th Aviation aerhq.org/Donate/Donate-Now for online Wednesdays-Fridays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gate and the entrance to Lyster Army Health Regiment will host a change of command donations or see the Fort Rucker AER officer The thrift shop needs people’s unwanted Clinic. People using the Enterprise Gate ceremony May 17 at 8:30 a.m. at Howze in Bldg. 5700, Rm. 350. items. People can drop off donations at any should expect traffic delays along this route Field. time in the shed behind the shop (former daily from 6:30 a.m. to 6 p.m. Fort Rucker VACATION BIBLE SCHOOL Armed Forces Bank building) located in officials recommend using the Daleville and MEMORIAL DAY CEREMONY The Fort Rucker Religious Education front of the theater next door to the bowling Faulkner gates as alternatives whenever pos- Fort Rucker will host its Memorial Day Center will host its annual vacation Bible alley. Donations are tax deductible. sible while work is under way. Traffic will be Ceremony May 24 at 8:30 a.m. at Veterans school June 10-13 from 8:30-11:30 a.m. at For more information, call 255-9595. reduced to one lane and drivers are urged to Park to pay tribute to the men and women the Spiritual Life Center, Bldg. 8939 on Red exercise caution as flagmen will be directing who gave their lives in defense of the nation. Cloud Road. The theme is “Emmanuel God SIREN TEST traffic. Work is expected to continue into the With Us.” The event will feature Bible les- The Installation Operations Center con- summer months. AER CAMPAIGN CONTINUES sons, crafts, music, recreation, snacks and ducts a test of the emergency mass notifi- Army Emergency Relief Awareness daily celebrations. The children will focus cation system the first Wednesday of each AUDIE MURPHY ASSOCIATION INDUCTION Campaign continues through May 15. AER on learning about the Bible and also devel- month at 11 a.m. At that time people will The Fort Rucker Sergeant Audie Murphy is a private, non-profit organization incor- op friends within the chapel while having a hear the siren over the giant voice. No ac- Association will host an induction ceremony porated in 1942 by the Secretary of War great time, according to chaplaincy officials. tions are required. May 20 at 10 a.m. in the U.S. Army Aviation and the Army Chief of Staff. AER’s mission For more information, call 255-3946 or 255- Museum. All are welcome to attend to honor is to provide emergency financial assistance 2989. the newest inductees. to Soldiers and their Families. To donate to