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Home , 33rd Fighter Wing, MacDill Air Force Base

Vol. 47, No. 2 Thursday, January 10, 2019

News/Features: page 2 Lifesavers recognized

News/Features: page 3 CAP cadets visit MacDill

News/Features: page 3 A little lunch; a little learning

Week in photos: page 4 Images from the week

AMX innovation on display - page 10

Photo by Airman 1st Class Ryan C. Grossklag (Left to right) U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Matthew Vernoy, 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron (6th AMX) fuel systems crafts- man; Tech. Sgt. Steven Parina, 6th AMXS fuels NCOIC; and Staff Sgt. Vince Williams, 927th Maintenance Group fuels me- Community: page 18 chanic, pause for a photo at the 2018 Department of Defense Maintenance Symposium at the Tampa Convention Center Events, Chapel, more... Dec. 19. The symposium, held at the Tampa Convention Center, hosted industry leaders in aerospace, weapons systems, and maintenance technology.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 1 COMMENTARY MacDill Airmen jump into action, save life of parachutist by Airman 1st Class Caleb Nunez 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

“When I heard my name being called, I knew it was go time,” said Air- man 1st Class Amari Alexander, one of two first responders after the accident. “I thought to myself, brush off this nervousness because some- one’s life is in your hands.” On Nov. 1 a civilian skydiver was critically injured at an airdrop zone in Zephyrhills, , when his parachute didn’t deploy correctly. Luck- ily,Airmen from MacDill Air Force Base were watching over U.S. Special Operations Command airborne personnel during their requalifying jump training in the area. “My initial thought was, I know what to do… I just have to do it.” said Senior Airman Ralecia Ogburn, recounting how she remained calm under pressure.“All of my training has prepared me for this moment.” After the skydiver impacted the ground, Ogburn and Alexander, aero- space medical technicians assigned to the 6th Medical Operations Squad- ron, immediately rushed to the scene and provided urgent, life-saving medical aid. The patient, an native, sustained a broken neck and back and was stabilized by the two Airmen until an ambulance ar- Photo by Airman 1st Class Caleb Nunez rived to transport him for follow-on care. U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Ralecia Ogburn and Airman 1st Class “Once he verbally responded, Airman Alexander and I performed our Amari Alexander, 6th Medical Operations Squadron aerospace medi- rapid trauma assessment, which is basically a head-to-toe examination cal technicians, display their Joint Service Commendation honors at to figure out possible injuries,” Ogburn said. “After the assessment we MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 20. Ogburn and Alexander distinguished decided to maintain cervical spine stabilization with a c-collar to prevent themselves by providing urgent medical treatment and life-saving aid further injuries.” to a critically wounded civilian at a parachute airdrop zone. Because of their quick response and selfless actions, Senior Airman Ra- lecia Ogburn and Airman 1st Class Amari Alexander received the Joint Service Commendation for distinguishing themselves by meritorious “One thing the military teaches is one team, one fight,” Ogburn. “We achievement award. It was presented by Gen. Raymond A. Thomas III, treated him just the same as we would anyone else, whether he wore a commander of Special Operations Command on MacDill. uniform or not.”

For information about base operations during emergencies or natural disasters, call the Straight Talk Line at 828-4163

COMMANDER’S ACTION LINE MacDill on the web Website: www.macdill.af.mil The Action Line provides two-way communication between the Facebook: www.facebook.com/ 6th Air Mobility Wing commander and the MacDill community. Per- sonnel may submit questions, concerns or comments via email to MacDillAirForceBase [email protected] or Facebook @6thAirMobilityWing- Instagram: macdill_afb CommandTeam Twitter: @macdill_afb

MacDill Thunderbolt U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. of the Air Force or the 6th Air Mobility Wing. News items for the MacDill Thunderbolt can be submitted Publisher: Joe DeLuca The appearance of advertising in this publication, including to the 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs office, 8208 Hangar inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by Loop Dr., suite 14, MacDill AFB, FL 33621. Call the Thunderbolt Editor: Nick Stubbs the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, at 828-2215. Email: [email protected]. 6th Air Mobility Wing or the TImes Publishing Company of the Deadline for article submissions is noon, Wednesdays to The MacDill Thunderbolt is published by the Times Publish- products or service advertised. appear in the next week’s publication. Articles received after ing Company, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. For retail advertising, call (813) 226-3318. deadline may be considered for future use. All submissions are Air Force. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an autho- Everything advertised in this publication shall be made considered for publication based on news value and timeliness. rized publication for distribution to members of the U.S. mili- available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to Every article and photograph is edited for accuracy, clar- tary services on MacDill. Contents of the MacDill Thunderbolt race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, ity, brevity, conformance with the “Associated Press Stylebook are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by the physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit and Libel Manual” and Air Force Instruction 35-101.

2 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT NEWS/FEATURES Florida Wing visits MacDill AFB by Senior Airman Alexis Suarez Public Affairs

The 927th Air Refueling Wing hosted a refueling mission for more than a dozen Florida Wing Civil Air Patrol Cadets from squadrons across the area Jan. 5 to experience MacDill Air Force Base. The Civil Air Patrol program allows young people to experience mili- tary life and go through a 16-step program that they are able to progress at their own pace. It includes aerospace education, leadership training, physical fitness and moral leadership. On arrival here, the cadets were greeted by Col. Doug Stouffer, 927th Air Refueling Wing commander, who gave a presentation about the mis- Photo by Senior Airman Alexis Suarez sion, aircraft, and history here at MacDill AFB. A group of cadets and staff from the Florida Wing Civil Air Patrol prepare “My first flying experience was with the Civil Air Patrol glider program to board a KC-135 Stratotanker at MacDill Air Force Base. The group when I was 14-years old,” said Col. Mike “Tiger” Greiger, former CAP- went on a refueling mission allowing them to learn more about the overall USAF Southeast Region Liaison. “Through the Civil Air Patrol program mission at MacDill. I was able to enlist as an E-3 in the Air Force, the Civil Air Patrol influ- enced my entire Air Force career of 36 years.” “Being able to go down and watch the job of a boom operator was such The group of cadets who visited MacDill AFB ranged from ages 12 to 17, an amazing experience,” said Cadet Tech. Sergeant Barbara vonKlock, many who have been in the program for two to three years and this was element leader and public affairs officer.“It’s not every day you get the their first military flight. The CAP program accepts young people 12 to 21. See CADETS, Page 12 Lunch and Learn educates Airmen on credit, spending by Staff Sgt. Xavier Lockley 927th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

Members from across the wing gathered for a Lunch and Learn during the unit training assembly at the 927th Air Refueling Wing Headquarters on MacDill Air Force Base Jan. 5. Tom Valeri, a branch manager with a local financial service, served as the guest speaker for the event, which educated Airmen about how to bet- ter their credit so that their finances won’t hinder their opportunities for houses, cars and other purchases that require exceptional credit ratings. Throughout lunch, members learned about managing credit, how to properly pay off debts and how to better utilize credit. Valeri said there is a plethora of ways people can get into problems with their credit; in fact, just a credit inquiry can lower a credit score by a few points. Photo by Staff Sgt. Xavier Lockley “It’s important whenever you’re going to purchase anything that re- A member of the 927th Air Refueling Wing looks through a credit pam- quires a credit check especially cars,” Valeri said. “Always ensure that you phlet during the Lunch and Learn held at MacDill Air Forde Base Jan. 5. get a soft credit check so that won’t penalize your score, if you get a hard Throughout lunch, members learned about managing credit, how to prop- check then you’ll likely lose points off of your score. erly pay off debts, and how to better utilize credit. “Most people wouldn’t know that but that’s why this course is so valu- able.” mand support staff journeyman. “Even if you have good credit or bad Many Airmen were pleased to learn information from the course and credit, you can still have a benefit from this learning opportunity.” shared how much they would like this to be offered later on. The 927 ARW provides endless opportunities and outlets for service “The course was outstanding; I felt as though I learned a lot more than members.This lunch and learn was just another opportunity to showcase before,” said Staff Sgt. Plinio Alves, 927th Mission Support Group com- the various support and resources the wing has to offer.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 3 WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Amber Williams Air Force fire trucks ceremoniously spray a C-130H3 Hercules to land at the 165th Airlift Wing in Savannah, Ga., Dec. 17, during Maj. Gen. Jesse Simmons’ final flight. Simmons and members of the Georgia were returning home after supporting the 50th Anniversary of the Argentine Air Force. The Georgia ANG established a state partnership with Argentina in 2016.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Peter Thompson Photo by Senior Airman John Linzmeier An F-35A Lightning II assigned to the 58th Fighter Squadron awaits per- A Hawaii Air National Guard F-22 Raptor approaches a Wisconsin ANG mission to taxi as an F-22 Raptor assigned to the 27th FS takes off in the KC-135 Stratotanker to receive , Dec. 11, over the Pa- background, Dec. 4, at , Fla. Together, F-22s and F-35s cific Ocean, near the Hawaiian Islands. Sentry Aloha provides tailored, successfully flew over 140 sorties and fired 13 missiles to culminate the first cost effective and realistic combat training for U.S. Air Force, ANG and post-Hurricane Michael Combat Archer air-to-air exercise. other Department of Defense services to provide warfighters with the skill sets necessary to perform their homeland defense and overseas combat missions.

4 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 5 NEWS/FEATURES 100 Black Women of Omaha inducts Offutt AFB Airman by Charles J. Haymond Public Affairs

OFFUTT AIR FORCE BASE, Neb. (AFNS)—In her office, hangs a white board covered with hand-written personalized to-do lists for Airmen she has taken under her wing.Although she left the realm of counseling to serve her country, she continues to find ways to integrate it into her new life with one goal in mind—to guide the leaders of tomorrow. First Lt. Valyn Beasley, 55th Medical Group practice manager health- care administrator, was born and raised in North Omaha, merely miles from .While stationed so close to home, she spends her time, not only mentoring those inside its gates, but also members of her community and it has not gone unnoticed. She was recently inducted into the National Coalition of 100 Black Women of Omaha, a non-profit advocacy organization designed to increase the economic growth, health and wellness, educational, political and social gains for women of color, with specific emphasis on enhancing the quality of life and lifestyles of all African-American women. Photo by Tech. Sgt. Rachelle Blake “These are all things that are important to me and I stand for their mis- First Lt. Valyn Beasley, 55th Medical Group practice manager healthcare sion and values, especially education,” Beasley said. “Education has always administrator, poses for a photo Dec. 19 at the Ehrling Bergquist Clinic, been very important to me. It is one thing no one can take from you.” Bellevue, Neb. Beasley was recently admitted into the National Coali- Beasley has her master’s degree in counseling and business administra- tion of 100 Black Women of Omaha, a non-profit advocacy organization tion and is currently accepted into three Ph.D. programs in organizational designed to increase the economic growth, health and wellness, educa- leadership. tional, political and social gains for women of color, in recognition for her See HONORED, Page 17 community service.

6 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT NEWS/FEATURES Innovation in tight spaces by Staff Sgt. Peter Thompson

EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. (AFNS)—As Hurricane Michael churned toward the Emerald Coast of Florida, F-35A Lightning IIs from the 33rd Fighter Wing here evacuated to , Loui- siana, to avoid the storm’s path and potential catastrophic damage.As Michael passed, narrowly missing Eglin AFB, a different type of storm brewed on the horizon that would test nomad innovation. There was talk within the F-35 community of a one-time inspection, or OTI, order being passed down. Every aircraft at the 33rd FW needed to have a fuel line on the engine inspected. Parts within a specific batch number needed to be removed and replaced. All of the wing’s aircraft were grounded until they were in- spected and fixed if needed. Photo by Airman 1st Class Lillian Miller This had a profound impact back at Eglin AFB but brought even more F-35 Lightning aircraft from Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., prepare for take- complications for the aircraft still at Barksdale AFB. off at Barksdale AFB, La., Oct. 12. The aircraft evacuated to Barksdale “It was particularly worrisome for us because we had jets off station AFB to avoid possible damage from Hurricane Michael. without access to all of our tools and personnel,” said 1st Lt. Patrick Mi- chael, 58th Aircraft Maintenance Unit assistant officer in charge.“We Furthermore, engine trailers and tool boxes would need to be transported didn’t have the guidance for changing out the part yet. The preliminary to the location, extending the timeline. guidance said we would need to remove the engine to access and remove When the OTI was made official on Oct. 12, leadership at all levels of the line.” the 33rd Maintenance Group and 33rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron The current guidelines used for aircraft maintenance required that the saw an opportunity for Airmen to demonstrate how capable they are. entire engine be removed, which would require at least 36 hours per jet. See F-35, Page 16

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 7 Joint Forces expediting Rapid Global Mobility at Al Udeid by Lt. Col. Matthew Wunderlich 8th Expeditionary Air Mobility Squadron

AL UDEID , Qatar—The 8th Expeditionary Air Mobility Squadron at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar enables rapid global mobility with a diverse group of Airmen and Soldiers from all walks of life. The “Mighty Ocho,” with a mission to expedite global reach through its Air Mobility Control Center, Strategic Airlift Maintenance and Aerial Port Operations, enables the warfighter by incorporating a wide range of experience brought to the theater by its personnel. Moving passengers and cargo at the largest military aerial port in U.S. Central Command requires deliberate action through close partnerships. One of the members of the Mighty Ocho team is 1st Lt. Benjamin Schnei- der, 295 Ordnance Company, U.S. Army Reserve. Schneider leads a team of 16 Soldiers, under tactical control of the 8th EAMS, in moving sensitive munitions to support operations throughout the theater. Schneider integrates his civilian professional experience working for Amazon to galvanize logistics operations at Al Udeid Air Base. “Working for Amazon Logistics has given me the skills and knowledge of how to effectively allocate the resources of my team to complete any ammunition movement, and eliminate any process shortcomings and

dead space, to more efficiently complete any mission,” said Schneider, Courtesy photo adding that his experience working for Amazon “has also provided me the Royal Canadian air force Maj. Marcelo Plada, Maintenance Operations ability to better manage the supply of munitions and communicate that Officer for the 8th Expeditionary Air Mobility Squadron, stands with his supply need more effectively to any required party.” team at Al Udeid Airbase in Qatar, where he is in charge of launching and As a leader in the 8th EAMS, he leverages his Soldiers’ ordnance and repairing mobility aircraft. Plada is part of an exchange program, and is transportation expertise to partner with Aerial Port Airmen to ensure assigned to Joint Base Lewis McChord where he is responsible for all See GLOBAL, Page 14 C-17 Globemaster III maintenance activities.

8 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT Access X MPF in transition; new hours, locations

382 School Chapel Youth Age Care Center 307 CDC Administration Ave 1, 2 & 3

Cypress Stand St MPF - Old 6 FSS Location HQ 411 263 Dining Facility MPF - TLF New Buildings TaTampampa Point Pt Blvd Blvd. Bowling Lo378cation Center 378 298 The Military Personnel Flight-passports, Refueling Wing, 828-3059 in-processing, DEERS/ID cards, relocations, The Reserve and Guard recruiters have re- re-enlistments, evaluations, and decora- located to Building 378 tions-will be minimally manned due to relo- Casualty Assistance Office: cating to Building 378. The new MPF walk- Stephen Mikesell, 6th FSS, 828-2503 in hours are 7:30 a.m.-11 a.m. Appointment The Casualty Assistance Office has relocat- only hours are 11 a.m.-3:30 p.m. ed to Building 378 Manpower Flight: Reserve and Guard recruiters: The Manpower Flight has RELOCATED Master Sgt. Shane Hogan AFRC 927th Air to Building 296

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 9 Members of the 6th Maintenance Group (6th MXG) and 927th MXG from MacDill Air Force Base gather at the 2018 Department of Defense Maintenance Symposium at the T tion Center Dec. 19. The Symposium brought together all aspects of the maintenance world to share ideas and collaborate on methods and procedures to help meet goals outlined by the secretary of defense in the National Defense Strategy.

MacDill fuels innovation at DoD Maintenance Symposium story and photos by Airman 1st Class Ryan C. Grossklag passed by their unique trailer.“When an issue comes up and the team needs to spring to 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs work, they can move with all the necessary equipment to execute their task. The fuel systems team spent the course of the symposium detailing how their trailer pro Like gas to a flame, the 6th Maintenance Group fuels systems team showcased its spark vides a cost-effective and efficient alternate to normal operations for innovation at the Department of Defense Maintenance Symposium in Tampa Dec. 17-19. “For just a small cost difference, our fuels shop was able to create a mobile work center The symposium brought together all aspects of the maintenance world to share ideas that allows them to work out on the approved areas of the flight line without ha and collaborate on methods and procedures to help meet goals outlined by the secretary of a runner back and forth to the shop when additional tools or equipment are required to com defense and the National Defense Strategy. MacDill’s fuels Airmen were able to share their plete a task,” said Capt. Felix Carrillo III, an aircraft maintenance unit officer in c ideas and gain experience from the brightest minds. the 6th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron. The team, comprised of multiple 6th MXG and one 927th Maintenance Group Airmen, The experience as a whole gave the team perspective on how to approac brought their mobile fuels systems trailer to the Tampa Convention Center exhibit floor to how they can influence innovation both inside and outside MacDill. demonstrate how they’ve expedited their work processes to more than 1,800 maintainers “On top of being able to hear what other services are doing as far as innovation and where from every branch of the DoD as well as industry leaders in aerospace, weapons systems we are trying to go with predictive maintenance, there were many great ideas that were and maintenance technology. generated just by walking around the exhibit.”said Carrillo.“W “The trailer was an idea that developed through the squadron as a way to make the ing for more information on the trailer so they could bring the idea bac team’s tasks more accessible,” said Staff Sgt. Adam Rogers, a 6th Aircraft Maintenance Though the aircraft maintenance squadron brought its own spark to the symposium, Squadron KC-135 Stratotanker crew chief who spent time engaging with visitors as they home knowledgeable ideas was paramount to continued innovation at MacDill

10 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT ce Base gather at the 2018 Department of Defense Maintenance Symposium at the Tampa Conven- 6th Maintenance Group (6th MXG) and 927th MXG maintainers from MacDill Air Force Base speak with a visitor to the fu- es to help meet goals outlined by the el system team’s mobile work trailer at the Tampa Convention Center Dec. 19. The work trailer was on display at the 2018 Department of Defense Maintenance Symposium, and maintainers detailed how it expedites their daily work processes.

The 6th Maintenance Squadron logo is displayed on MacDill’s MacDill fuels innovation at DoD Maintenance Symposium fuel system team’s mobile work “When an issue comes up and the team needs to spring to trailer at the Tampa Conven- they can move with all the necessary equipment to execute their task.” tion Center Dec. 19. Maintain- The fuel systems team spent the course of the symposium detailing how their trailer pro- ers from MacDill Air Force Base vides a cost-effective and efficient alternate to normal operations. showcased their trailer to more as able to create a mobile work center than 1,800 guests at the 2018 that allows them to work out on the approved areas of the flight line without having to send Department of Defense Mainte- k and forth to the shop when additional tools or equipment are required to com- nance Symposium. an aircraft maintenance unit officer in charge at ve the team perspective on how to approach future ideas and how they can influence innovation both inside and outside MacDill. “On top of being able to hear what other services are doing as far as innovation and where there were many great ideas that were “We had multiple visitors ask- ing for more information on the trailer so they could bring the idea back to their bases.” Though the aircraft maintenance squadron brought its own spark to the symposium, bringing as paramount to continued innovation at MacDill Air Force Base.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 11 CADETS From Page 3

Photo by Senior Airman Alexis Suarez Boom operators from the 63rd Air Refueling Squadron perform last-minute preparations before their mission Jan. 5. Before takeoff the cadets were briefed on safety equipment and aircraft familiarity for the refueling mis- sion.

chance to see an A-10, let alone being refueled.” The CAP group was split into two groups, allowing an ample amount of time for everyone to go down by the boom operator and watch the A-10 flying and being refueled. Being able to sit and take photos down by the boom is what is most memorable for these cadets. Hosting mis- sions like this increase awareness of how the Air Force Reserve contributes to the total force and the importance of the 927th Refueling Wing to the local economy along with allowing young people to experience hands-on mili- tary life.

12 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 13 GLOBAL From Page 8 seamless interoperability to load mobility aircraft. “Being able to work alongside the Air Force in a joint en- vironment has opened my eyes to the logistical capabilities of each branch of the military,” said Schneider.“Being able to not only move ammunition and other resources by land, but by air and sea as well, has given me a true understand- ing of how important integrating different organizations together can provide a more well-rounded andcomplete unit.” Speaking on his experience with the 8th EAMS, Schnei- der noted that the “knowledge that I have gained working alongside the Air Force, and learning from many of their leadership, will be brought forward into my civilian career to help grow my own organization.” Directly partnering with Schneider’s Soldiers is Tech. Sgt. Janet Lindsay, Special Cargo Handler, 8th EAMS. Lindsay, an Air Force Reservist, directly supports the warfighter as a special cargo handler lead at the Aerial Port, by integrating her civilian leadership experience as a teacher and now as a Principal at Paris Elementary School in Paris, Idaho. “As a teacher I spent years teaching and building re- lationships with students, understanding that everyone’s learning style is unique; through this experience I was able to effectively and positively teach each student to achieve personal success,” said Lindsay. “Now as the Principal the same techniques are not only applied to my faculty and staff, but directly into my leadership role in the Air Force.” At Al Udeid, Lindsay guides her Airmen to safely ex- ecute the mission while overcoming extreme heat and con- stant demands to move warfighters and their assets to the fight. In the month of July 2018 alone, the 8th EAMS moved more than 1,100 tons of special cargo. Lindsay not- ed that “individual accountability and discipline play an important role whether on campus, district, or military level. The overall mission success depends squarely on team work and dedication.” The 8th EAMS heavily relies upon its diverse Total Force Airmen from the Air Force Reserve,Air National Guard, and Active Duty components to optimize air mobil- ity operations. After Lindsay and her fellow Aerial Porters load the car- go and passengers, the task of launching and repairing mo- bility aircraft falls on the shoulders of Royal Canadian air force Maj. Marcelo Plada, Maintenance Operations Officer for the 8th EAMS. At home as part of an exchange program, Plada is as- signed to Joint Base Lewis McChord where he is responsi- ble for all C-17 Globemaster III maintenance activities. He was selected by Canada’s Aerospace Engineering (AERE) Officer Council to attend the Air Force’s Accelerated Air- craft Maintenance Officer Course at ,. He was then assigned to the 62nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron where he transitioned from learn- ing and assisting to eventually being expected to function effectively as the maintenance operations officer. “The Exchange Program has allowed me to grow my Air-

See GLOBAL, Page 15

14 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT GLOBAL From Page 14 craft Maintenance Management skills. I never would have had the opportunity to work at such a high warfighting level if I had stayed in Canada,” said Plada. “The exposure gained at McChord and on my deployment with the Air Force is unprecedented for my AERE trade. It is tremen- dously beneficial for both the Royal Canadian air force and AERE community.” This experience is leveraged while, deployed as Plada oversees the maintenance for all C-5 Galaxy, C-17 Globe- master III, and commercial aircraft at Al Udeid Air Base. As a Coalition member and leader in the 8th EAMS, Plada integrates his knowledge and perspective to receive, repair, and launch ’s strategic airlift fleet. “This opportunity gives us a unique firsthand experi- ence into a high operational tempo deployed environment that very few AEREs have ever been or can be a part of,” said Plada. “Now my future looks a lot brighter as I will be able to bring extensive firsthand experience in one of our country’s most important strategic airlift aircraft back to our flying community.” The diversity of the 8th EAMS, as reflected by its joint, coalition, and total force squadron members, directly en- ables the squadron’s mission to expedite global reach. Whether it is an Army Soldier moving ammunition, a Courtesy photo USAF Reservist processing special cargo, or a Coalition Tech. Sgt. Janet Lindsay, Special Cargo Handler, 8th Expeditionary Air Mobility Airman leading aircraft repairs, the “Mighty Ocho” moves Squadron, receives a package at Al Udeid Air Base in Qatar. Lindsay, an Air Force with precision to support the warfighter through dedica- Reservist, directly supports the warfighter as a special cargo handler lead at the tion and teamwork. Aerial Port there.

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 15 F-35 From Page 7 They extended a challenge…find a better way. of miles to deliver support equipment and the required consumables to The maintainers at Barksdale AFB determined eight of the jets failed complete the repair.Their actions shaved days off of delivery times and the requirements of the OTI. The remaining jets returned to Eglin AFB. avoided several thousand dollars in transportation costs. Maintainers working with field support engineers from Lockheed Martin “The F-35 program tends to bring parties together under one common and Pratt and Whitney set out to find a way to replace the fuel line with- cause, maturing the program,” said Chief Master Sgt. Matthew Coltrin, out removing the engine. 33rd MXS superintendent. Crew chiefs determined they could access the part through a hole just Coltrin went on to say that their partnership is strong because many big enough to fit a hand. The location of the fuel line is nearly impossible of the functions that existed within a traditional maintenance squadron to see.They needed to detach and set aside another component without with fourth generation aircraft now lie within the fifth generation air- removing it, making room even scarcer. craft maintenance squadron. Despite how difficult it was, they succeeded in finding the fix. The first “More now than ever we rely on each other to accomplish organic main- across the F-35’s global presence. tenance. On fifth gen aircraft it takes a village. No squadron can go it Within three days of the official notification, the 58th AMU had iden- alone,” said Coltrin. tified the jets that were deficient, found the fix, got it reviewed and ap- To this date, only one other unit has replicated the same maintenance proved to execute and were on their way to Barksdale AFB to implement on three jets.This is because of what sets the 33rd FW maintenance team the new procedure. apart from others. “Especially coming on the heels of Hurricane Michael, the fuel line OTI “The maintainers at the 33rd Fighter Wing have a maturity unlike had the potential to put our training timeline well behind schedule,” said anywhere else in the enterprise,” said Joseph Frasnelli, Lockheed Mar- Lt. Col. David Cochran, 58th FS director of operations.“Initial estimates tin Aeronautics F-35 chief of maintenance and operations at Eglin AFB. were for our students to graduate almost two months late. Instead, our “The 58th AMU forged their own path with their leadership’s support… maintenance team got us back up to a full schedule within two weeks and and they knocked their (fuel line changes) out in a significantly quicker enabled on-time graduations for nine new F-35 pilots.” time.” Every training mission requires teamwork between countless organi- When the OTI was first accomplished, the fuel line swap took about 24 zations to prepare jets for flight and get them in the air.The actions that hours, 12 hours less than removing the entire engine and performing the took place following the OTI highlighted the significance and effective- maintenance on a stand. As they repeated the task on additional aircraft ness of the many organizations working together within the 33rd MXG. they were able to shave another four hours from that time, enabling jets At the group level, the plans and scheduling section ordered new parts to return home faster.That speed and accuracy ensured the wing could and opened lines of communication with leadership ensuring appropriate continue accomplishing one of its primary missions, training F-35A pilots. communication was taking place.They identified aircraft that were unaf- While facing adversity on more than one front, 33rd FW maintainers fected by the inspection, enabling them to return home earlier. Mainte- leaned forward and solved a problem that no one else could. That mindset nance was then prioritized across the fleet to enable normal operations at resonates throughout the wing as Airmen work to find innovative meth- the wing to continue. ods to address issues before and as they arise. The quality assurance section helped by validating the new technical “I couldn’t be more proud of our nomad maintainers, as this is truly data and inspection process.They also sent a member of their team to innovation at its best,” said Col. David Moreland, 33rd MXG commander. Barksdale AFB to provide assistance and oversight, eventually streamlin- “These outstanding maintenance professionals were confronted with a ing the repairs. problem, but not constrained by it. They used adversity as an opportunity. Members from the 33rd MXS Low Observable and Fuels sections pro- Their efforts and this innovative solution not only saved the entire F-35 vided additional maintenance assistance and augmented the initial group fleet thousands of hours of non-mission capable time, it had a direct im- of maintainers that deployed to recover the jets.They drove hundreds pact on the warfighter by restoring combat capability around the globe.”

Be sure to visit the official 6th Air Mobility Wing website at www.macdill.af.mil

16 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT HONORED From Page 6 “Growing up a first-generation student, in a single-parent home along Beasley was recognized for her community service and how she impact- with the other adversity that came with it, I have always been asked ‘how ed her environment. She is a part of a mentorship group that advises young did you make it through all the struggles and hardship,’” she said. “I was women, ages 11-18. in the lived-experience, so it did not come as a struggle to me, it was simply “I am already doing the work that this organization is designed to life for me. I have the ability to get through high stress conditions and still achieve,” she said. “I care about my community and am always working to succeed.” make it and others better.” It’s that mindset she hopes to pass on through her work with the NC100BW. Beasley said she is very happy to be a representative of Omaha and “Through advocacy these women work as change agents to influence hopes to improve the future of her home area. policy that promotes gender equity in health, education and economic em- “I was honored that the work I have been doing in my community for so powerment,” Beasley said. “It was an honor to be inducted. Now, I feel a long was recognized,” said Beasley.“I am truly passionate about helping greater sense of responsibility than I ever have. I need to do, and be, better others achieve their full potential, personally, professionally and academi- in order to live up to this organization.” cally. I believe being inducted into the NC100BW of Omaha will help me to After she applied for membership in the coalition, she was interviewed, influence others on a larger scale, because of my involvement others have where the president and the committee had to decide if she was qualified to already asked me how they can get involved and I believe bringing aware- become a part of the group. ness and educating is one of the best ways to influence others.”

MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 17 COMMUNITY EVENTS Friday New Year’s Run Starts at the golf course trail. Show time is 6:30 a.m. Run at 7 a.m. Join the Fitness Center for a New Year’s 5k Fun Run. Call 828- 4496 for more info.

Saturday Youth Center Gym Family Flea Market from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. Come out and support our community and the Keystone Club. Call or stop by to reserve a table. Food and snacks available. Call 828-7956.

Sunday Base Theater Free movie: “Venom” (PG-13). Doors open at 1:15 p.m. Movie starts at 2 p.m. Overflow parking available in the SOCOM parking garage. Habitat for sea creatures Photo by Airman 1st Class Ryan C. Grossklag Thursday Bags of seashells wait to be moved to construct an oyster reef at MacDill Air Force Base Dec. 14. Through Still Life Painting Class conservational projects, MacDill strives for being a good steward of the environment. At the Outdoor Recreation pavil- ion (Bldg. 2017) 9-11 a.m. Call the Arts & Crafts Center at 828-4413 CHAPEL SCHEDULE for more info. Protestant service Catholic Mass Surf’s Edge Club Sunday - 8 a.m. - traditional worship Saturday -5:30 p.m. - Mass 11 a.m. - contemporary worship Taste of Asia Luncheon from Sunday - 9:30 a.m. - Mass 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. Featuring beef, Monday-Thursday - 12:10 p.m. broccoli and bamboo shoots, crispy Islamic service orange chicken, fried rice, vegeta- Friday - 1:30 p.m.-3 p.m. Prayer (Blessed Sacrament Room) ble lo mein, stir fry vegetables, des- serts and more. Call 840-2020 for For all other faith groups or for any questions, please contact the Chapel by visiting pricing and more info. http://www.macdill.af.mil/macdillchapel or calling 828-3621

Rickenbacker’s – Brews of the Bay Bar MacDill Craft Beer Tasting – Meet the local brewers from 5-7 p.m. Big Storm Brewery will high- light seasonal brews and explain the craft brew process. Florida born and raised.

Base Theater Free movie: “Peppermint” (R). Doors open at 6:15 p.m. Movie starts at 7 p.m. Be sure to visit the official 6th Air Mobility Wing www.macdillfss.com website at www.macdill.af.mil

18 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT MACDILL THUNDERBOLT u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u 19 20 u WWW.MACDILLTHUNDERBOLT.COM u Thursday, January 10, 2019 u MACDILL THUNDERBOLT