2015 Altus Trophy Presented on Behalf of Fairchild Air Force Base by the City of Spokane and Greater Spokane Incorporated

2015 Altus Trophy Presented on behalf of Fairchild Air Force Base by the City of Spokane and Greater Spokane Incorporated.

Table of Contents Executive Summary

Letters of Endorsement Colonel Jonathan Duncan, Commander 336th Training Group Colonel Charles B. McDaniel, Commander 92nd Air Refueling Wing Colonel Dagvin R. M. Anderson, Commander 58th Special Operations Wing Mayor David Condon, City of Spokane Commissioner Todd Mielke, Shelly O’Quinn and Al French, Spokane County Board of Commissioners Governor Jay Inslee, Washington State Senator Patty Murray, United States Senate Senator Maria Cantwell, United States Senate Representative Cathy McMorris Rodgers, United States House of Representatives

Community Description City of Spokane, Community Description Team Fairchild – Base Description Fairchild Air Force Base History AETC Unit Description Fairchild Air Force Base Awards

Military Affairs Committee Forward Fairchild Forward Fairchild Informational Brochure

Supporting Supplementary Materials Fairchild Honorary Commanders Illuminating Courage Military Memorial Let Freedom Ring – Armed Forces Persons of the Year Spokane Lilac Festival Operation Spokane Heroes Veterans Day Celebration – Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena POW/MIA Chair – Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena Veterans Plaza – Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena Hiring Heroes AETC Civic Leaders Trip to Fairchild Air Force Base

Media Coverage

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801 W. Riverside, Suite 100, Spokane, WA 99201 Phone: 509.624.1393 or 1.800.SPOKANE Fax: 509.747.0077

www.greaterspokane.org

Military Affairs Committee – 2015 Altus Trophy Attn: Dr. Joe Leverett Altus Chamber of Commerce P.O. Box 518 Altus, OK 73522

November 20, 2015

Dear Dr. Leverett,

The past year was a promising one for Spokane’s relationship with Fairchild Air Force Base. We were awarded $2.2 million to purchase land in the Accident Potential Zone to further protect the base from encroachment. Through advocacy, the Air Force Water Survival Training program was relocated from Pensacola to the 336th Training Group at Fairchild Air Force Base. Additionally, the Spokane region was proud to host the AETC Civic Leaders visit at Fairchild in September 2015.

As Greater Spokane Incorporated supports the nomination of the City of Spokane and Fairchild Air Force Base for the 2015 Altus Trophy, we do so after working tirelessly to protect and support the base. We fought for MILCON to modernize many of the survival school buildings. GSI’s committee, Forward Fairchild, works to bring key community stakeholders together to advocate for the preservation of future mission potential of Fairchild Air Force Base. This past year has focused on protecting the base from future encroachments and was rewarded with funds from the state of Washington to remove an encroachment in the APZ-2 area.

GSI also has a leadership role in the Washington Military Alliance. Governor Jay Inslee recently authorized this group that represents all of the military communities across the state. The organization advocates on behalf of military base needs at a state level. GSI is well represented in this group by Robin Toth, VP Business Development, and Rich Hadley, GSI President Emeritus.

Spokane has excellent schools, a beautiful natural environment, and unprecedented community collaboration. On September 11, 2015 the Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena broke ground on a new monument, Illuminating Courage. Illuminating Courage was dedicated on Veterans Day 2015 to the soldiers from our region that have fallen since September 11, 2001. The new memorial is a beacon of support from the Spokane community to the many that have so proudly served our country.

With the challenges forced by the U.S. Air Force strict budget reductions and down-sizing, it is important for local communities to step-up to understand and to partner. Our nomination packet explains this community partnership well.

Sincerely,

Alisha Benson Interim CEO VP, Education & Workforce Executive Director, Spokane STEM

Greater Spokane Incorporated – Creating Something Greater for the Spokane region since 1881 www.greaterspokane.org | www.facebook.com/greaterspokane | www.twitter.com/greaterspokane

Forward Fairchild In concert with Fairchild Air Force Base, the Spokane Region is a full partner in the growth and vitality of the Inland Northwest to achieve the strategic goals and ensure the success of the key missions of the US Air Force in our area.

The purpose of Forward Fairchild is to defend and advocate for Fairchild Air Force Base. The group engages the community in support of the region’s number one employer and works with the base to advocate for infrastructure priorities.

Forward Fairchild, established in 2003 as a permanent committee of Greater Spokane Incorporated, works diligently to protect Fairchild AFB to secure future growth. Business, government, and citizens work together to support the missions and people of the Air Force. The committee’s work primarily focuses on advocacy to support the current and future mission potential of the base.

This past year Forward Fairchild has focused on protecting Fairchild Air Force Base from future encroachments including a proposed casino project that would like directly in the training flight path of the base. Additionally, Forward Fairchild has successfully secured funding from Washington State to purchase property that lies within the Accident Prevention Zone – 2 (APZ- 2) to remove an existing encroachment that was identified in the JLUS process.

This committee was able to advocate for the relocation of the Water Survival School from Pensacola, Florida to Fairchild Air Force Base. The relocation of this survival school streamlines the process for the Air Force, reduces expenses for the USAF by more than $4.6 million and strengthens the AETC mission of the base. Additionally, Forward Fairchild continues to advocate for the siting of the KC-46A at Fairchild Air Force Base.

Members of the Forward Fairchild Committee include:

Kevin Twohig, Chair Spokane Public Facilities District Cara Coon VP, Government and Civic Relations Timothy Ames Umqua Bank Superintendent Medical Lake School District #326 W. Stacey Cowles Publisher Ty Barberry The Spokesman Review Financial Advisor Edward Jones John Culton Eastern Washington Director Melissa Carpenter Office of Senator Patty Murray Eastern Washington Representative Office of Governor Jay Inslee Andy DeMott Retired, USAF David Condon Mayor City of Spokane

Paul Fletcher Theresa Sanders City Administrator Rich Hadley City of Spokane President Emeritus Greater Spokane Incorporated Bill Savitz Executive Director, CEO Christine Johnson, PhD Ignite Northwest Chancellor Community Colleges of Spokane Bill Simer Partner Jeffrey Johnson Eide Bailly Deputy, 92 Mission Support Group CC Director, Encroachment Management Team Nathan Strege Fairchild Air Force Base Eastern Washington Director Office of Senator Maria Cantwell Larry Krauter CEO William Symmes Spokane International Airport Attorney Witherspoon Kelley James McDevitt Board Counsel Joe Tortorelli Spokane International Airport Secretary Spokane Area Good Roads Association Todd Mielke County Commissioner Albert Tripp Spokane County City Manager City of Airway Heights Scott Morris President, Chairman & CEO Clancy Welsh Avista President Garco Construction, Inc. Brian Newberry Executive Director Chud Wendle Leadership Spokane District Director office of Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers

Frederick Zitterkopf Retired, USAF

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November 25, 2015

Military Affairs Committee - Altus Trophy Altus Chamber of Commerce Attn: Dr. Joe Leverett P. 0. Box518 Altus, OK 73522

Dear Dr. Leverett:

The Spokane County Board of Commissioners is pleased to offer a letter of support to accompany the application for the Altus Trophy recognizing the great connection between the Spokane Community and the AETC Survival School at Fairchild Air Force Base. Spokane County strives to work closely with and support Fairchild Air Force Base in every way possible. This relationship started in 1942 and is even stronger today.

The Board of County Commissioners recognizes the tremendous benefit that Fairchild offers the area; this is a responsibility that we never take lightly. We show our hometown heroes our admiration through many different award winning programs. One such program is the Armed Forces & Aerospace Museum; this museum is an effort to replace the former Fairchild Heritage Museum. This non-profit group is made up of dedicated individuals, both military and civilian; they have been working to preserve the region's rich military history. Spokane County is a proud financial supporter assisting this hard working non-profit group We also honor our Airman with the annual Armed Forces Torchlight parade held in downtown Spokane, last years parade drew over 15,000 participants, and is the largest such parade in the United States. Spokane County also worked tirelessly to acquire and support the opening of the Eastern Washington's Veterans Cemetery which will insure a final resting place for those who have sacrificed their lives so all would enjoy the freedoms we have.

Spokane County has a strong working relationship with Fairchild, primarily focused on transportation issues that affect the mission of the base. Spokane County removed and relocated the Burlington Northern Santa Fe rail line that traversed through the base and served industrial sites east of the base. With the strong support of the base and with National Security potentially compromised because of this rail line, Spokane County relocated the rail line and preserved the jobs of the industrial sites east of Fairchild. Another example is the relocation of the Survival School within the base; Spokane County has worked with the base to provide for new accesses that provide a safe entry point that is secure and convenient to the 336th Training Group Survival School. Spokane County and Fairchild worked hand in hand during the record setting snowfall winters of 2007-08 and 2008-09. Reserve units at Fairchild assisted Spokane County with staff

1116 W EST BROADWAY A VENUE • SPOKANE, W AS HINGTON 99260-0100 • (509) 477-2265 and equipment to aid the small cities on the West Plains area after an emergency declaration had been signed by the governor. Within 48 hours most of our transportation routes serving both the base and our citizens were back open and running. We have worked with Fairchild Air Force Base leading the effort on a Joint Land Use Study (JLUS) which was just completed three years ago. Efforts are now underway to implement the land use regulations to protect existing and future missions of the base from any encroachment issues.

I sincerely ask you to strongly consider Spokane County and Fairchild Air Force Base for the Altus Award. Our relationship with Fairchild is second to none, and we will continue to work and solve issues affecting both the base and Spokane County. 801 W. Riverside, Suite 100, Spokane, WA 99201

Phone: 509.624.1393 or 1.800.SPOKANE Fax: 509.747.0077 www.greaterspokane.org

11/20/15

Altus Chamber of Commerce Attn: Dr. Joe Leverett, Military Affairs Committee/Altus Trophy P.O. Box 518 Altus, OK 73522

Dear Dr. Leverett,

I am the Manager of the Eastern Washington Procurement Technical Assistance Center (PTAC). PTAC serves 12 counties in Eastern Washington and has 359 active small business clients. Being part of a nationwide network of dedicated procurement professionals who work to support and extend the Defense Logistic Agency’s mission, providing the best value goods and services to American’s Armed Forces and their government agencies. PTAC’s main job is to be the bridge between the buyer and supplier. We assist small businesses with marketing to the government, solicitations, drawings, and other areas relating to selling to the government.

Fairchild Air Force Base has been a tremendous resource for our region. Daily, we find additional evidence that Fairchild AFB is critical to our economy. If it is small or large business or simply local jobs, they are needed to support our community. In 2014 PTAC clients reported winning over $258 million in government contracts. This represents 3,736 jobs created or retained for the State of Washington.

Those of us in Eastern Washington truly value Fairchild AFB. It is more than just an economic resource for our local businesses. Some of us have had parents, spouses and children serve at Fairchild AFB. Many of those who have served decided to stay and share their talents, abilities and experiences with others. In fact, the relationship between Eastern Washington and Fairchild AFB is so close, and our community is so intertwined, that we selected Colonel (retired) Brian Newberry, the former Commander of Fairchild AFB to be the President and CEO of Leadership Spokane. The list continues in regards to Air force Veterans, including Colonel (retired) Kevin Berkompas, Independent Consultant and Principal at Bear Compass Consulting LLC, and Colonel (retired) Chet Roshetko, RN Nurse Executive at Western State Hospital.

We support our military by providing great local resources for them, and their families. We also provide many of the products that they need to do their job on base, in the community, and for our nation. We provide tools to maximize their acumen and agility as they fulfill their missions.

Thank you for your consideration. In the eyes of Spokane, Fairchild AFB has already won the Altus Trophy.

Kind regards,

Jessica Kirk, Eastern Washington PTAC

Greater Spokane Incorporated – Creating Something Greater for the Spokane region since 1881 www.greaterspokane.org | www.facebook.com/greaterspokane | www.twitter.com/greaterspokane

November 23, 2015

Altus Chamber of Commerce Attn: Dr. Joe Leverett, Military Affairs Committee/Altus Trophy P.O. Box 518 Altus, OK 73522

Dear Dr. Leverett:

It’s my pleasure, as chair of Operation Spokane Heroes and as a member of the Spokane community, to write this letter of endorsement for your consideration of Spokane for the Altus Trophy.

I moved to Spokane after living in many different communities that support the military, Las Vegas, San Diego and Seattle, to name a few. I have never lived anywhere that is more committed to their military than Spokane. I know most service members and veterans who live here will say the same. That is why we have so many military veterans that choose to stay in this area when they retire.

For over 15 years, I was a member of the Armed Services Committee of Greater Spokane Incorporated. Through that committee I was invited to participate in the Honorary Commanders program that pairs community members with Fairchild AFB Commanders. It’s a wonderful way of introducing the community to Fairchild and their mission and also to connect the military members with the community.

I have also had the pleasure of chairing the Let Freedom Ring Armed Forces Persons of the Year Awards for several years. This event recognizes the outstanding enlisted military personnel from all branches of service in this area. The candidates are nominated by their commanding officers and are interviewed by a panel of community judges selected from businesses who are members of Greater Spokane Incorporated. Six Persons of the Year selectees are chosen from approximately 20 nominees. One from each category: Active Duty Senior, Middle and Junior Enlisted and Guard/Reserve Senior, Middle and Junior Enlisted. All nominees are honored at the Let Freedom Ring event in April and the six selectees are honored again at the Spokane Lilac Festival’s All City Civic/Military Luncheon and Parade in May.

Altus Chamber of Commerce Page 2

After 9/11, the Spokane community sought a way to support the families of our deployed military members. Through collaboration with Greater Spokane Incorporated, Visit Spokane and the Spokane Lilac Festival, Operation Spokane Heroes was formed. Since that time OSH has evolved into a support system for all of our military personnel and their families. Local businesses provide discounted goods and services to military members through OSH. We collect necessities for our units being deployed and for any homeless or transitioning veterans, provide pillowcases with family members pictures on them, sponsor a holiday party at our Loof Carrousel each year for military children and their families, distribute holiday gift cards to local military families in need, and greet our troops coming home as well as provide a send off for those leaving. In a small way, that’s our part in saying “thank you” to those who sacrifice so much for our freedoms.

I’m extremely proud to be a member of a community that does so much for not only Fairchild AFB but for all the military personnel in this region. I can’t think of any city that deserves the honor of receiving the Altus Trophy more than Spokane does. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,

Sandy Kates Chair, Operation Spokane Heroes

DEPARTMENT OF THE AIR FORCE HEADQUARTERS 92D AIR REFUELING WING (AMC) FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE WASHINGTON

Colonel Charles B. McDaniel Commander 1 East Bong Street, Suite 221B Fairchild AFB, WA 99011

Dr. Joe Leverett Altus Military Affairs Committee P.O. Box 518 Altus, OK 73522

On behalf of Fairchild Air Force Base, it is my privilege and honor to whole-heartedly nominate the City of Spokane for the 2015 Altus Military Affairs Committee Annual Community Support Award (Altus Trophy). For more than 95 years, Spokane has hosted the military in one form or another, and it is evident this legacy of friendship has only strengthened throughout nearly a century of partnership.

I believe Spokane is the clear choice for the Altus Trophy. I have been stationed at eight Air Force bases in my career, and the Spokane community is unrivaled in their support for the military. Earlier this year Spokane observed the 77th anniversary of the Lilac Festival - a yearly celebration of our military. Another prime example of the community’s love and appreciation for those who wear the uniform was put on display as hundreds of Spokanites braved the cold wind on Veterans Day where they witnessed the unveiling of the Illuminating Courage - Post 9/11 Fallen Heroes Memorial. This memorial is now located outside of Spokane’s largest indoor event venue, The Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena, which is named after those whom the city cherishes the most.

Spokane continues to prove our Airmen are a treasured part of this community:  The Spokane Lilac Festival Armed Forces Torchlight Parade continues to be the largest U.S. nighttime parade. The parade attracts over 150,000 visitors saluting the military.  Donation of more than 1,800 tickets to various sporting, community and musical events  Forward Fairchild was created to better funnel business support for military

Spokane’s unfaltering support of America’s Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines here in the Inland Northwest is truly sincere and enduring. It is upon these noble citizens’ shoulders that Team Fairchild is able to provide Global Reach for America. They are our firm foundation and we are stronger because of them. It is with great pride that I nominate our incredibly worthy Spokane family for the 2015 Altus Trophy. Thank you for the consideration for this Lilac Community that truly has a red, white and blue heart.

CHARLES B. MCDANIEL Colonel, USAF Commander

November 13, 2015

Altus Chamber of Commerce Dr. Joe Leverett, Military Affairs Committee/Altus Trophy P.O. Box 518 Altus, OK 73522

Dear Dr. Leverett,

I'm writing you as the Chair of Forward Fairchild, a permanent committee of Spokane’s chamber of commerce - Greater Spokane Incorporated. Forward Fairchild was founded as a community response to the continuing challenges facing military installations and as a means to recognize the opportunities created with the presence of military personnel and bases in our region. With the many budget constraints, these have been challenging times for military installations and personnel. That leads to an even greater urgency for support and advocacy on behalf of our military and their families. Therefore, we continue to increase our efforts to provide a community environment that provides support for the mission and people of Fairchild AFB and the AETC Survival School.

In our mission to defend, expand, protect, engage, and advocate on behalf of the Base’s military installation and families in our region, we have engaged in a number of local efforts this past year that, we believe, further strengthen Fairchild's status as part of the fabric of our region and defender of America's freedom. Further, we have continued our past efforts to work with federal, state, county, city elected officials and their staff to make sure a voice is heard that represents our military. We make regular visits to AETC and AMC Headquarters with yearly visits to the Pentagon and visits to our congressional delegations in Washington D. C.

In 2012, Senator Patty Murray, Senator Maria Cantwell and Rep. Cathy McMorris- Rodgers joined Forward Fairchild and community officials at the offices of Greater Spokane Incorporated to launch Fairchild First. The purpose of this high level partnership was to promote Fairchild AFB as the first operating base to receive the new KC-46A refueling tankers. We advocated heavily with AF officials as well as other Congressional offices to tell the story of how ideally situated Fairchild is with its mission of both training and active deployment at the forefront of our message. While it's unfortunate that Fairchild wasn't selected as the initial bed-down base, our high scoring and selection as the top alternative to McConnell speaks well to the recognition that Fairchild is a top site for future missions and tanker bed-down opportunities.

A few years ago, the Spokane community came together to help form the Spokane Military Alliance (SMA). SMA is the convening of commanders of the military branches, chief executives of business/industry, local elected leaders and directors of community non-profits. The purpose is to coordinate and focus community support for the Base, the Wings and all of the military. Interest and growth of SMA is leading to the coordination of annual and special events by and for the military; to inventory military and community assets, and sponsor or stage projects on behalf of the military.

Recently Washington State Governor Jay Inslee stood up the Washington Military Alliance (WMA). This Alliance brought representatives of all military installations in the State of Washington together to inventory defense assets and establish a statewide plan to protect and preserve them. A firm was hired to conduct a study that was completed in December, 2012. One outcome from the report was the formation of the office of Military Advisor to the Governor. This position is placed under the State's Department of Commerce. We are fully engaged with the WMA and GSI is supporting one of the co-chairs of the Alliance.

Forward Fairchild has taken the lead role in support of, and campaigned for a State funds to allow vacating dated modular home parks located within the Accident Potential Zone at the end of Fairchild's runway. This effort has resulted in the removal of 1/3 of the encroaching units, with another 1/3 underway.

In September, we had the great honor of hosting the AETC Commanders Civic Leaders group at Fairchild AFB. During a very long day the CLs experienced the life of a survival school student and were briefed by the survival specialists who provide the actual training for every airmen going down range for the AF. Dinner for the group was in the new Spokane Convention Center on the banks of the Spokane river that runs right through the middle of downtown Spokane.

I am both honored and proud to express support for the nomination of the City of Spokane and the AETC survival school at Fairchild Air Force Base for the 2015 Altus Trophy, recognizing community support of AETC military operations. All of us at Forward Fairchild and Greater Spokane Inc. are grateful that the Altus Chamber of Commerce sponsors this annual recognition.

Fairchild AFB personnel and staff are a part of us and we are extremely proud of their service. They are family. We are all grateful and thankful for the opportunity to provide services where we can to all the men and women who represent us so tirelessly. I hope you will recognize our role of support as a consideration to awarding the 2015 Altus Trophy.

With Warm Regards,

Kevin J Twohig, CFE Chair, Forward Fairchild

City of Spokane Community Description

The City of Spokane is located on the eastern side of Washington State, 18 miles west of the Idaho border and 100 miles south of the Canadian border. Spokane is the second largest city in the state with a current population of nearly 210,000. The current size of the city is roughly 58 square miles.

The City was built along a picturesque river valley on the western decline of the Rocky Mountains and with rolling prairies to the south and west. Historically, the City of Spokane was a booming agriculture and mining center. The rapid growth of the area began with the arrival of the Northern Pacific Railroad in 1881. Following a gold rush and a silver bonanza, Spokane grew to 20,000 by 1890 and doubled in population during the next decade.

Around the turn of the 19th century, newly-made millionaires from the mining and railroad industries created a city by building ornate skyscrapers, vying with each other for height and footprint. The buildings were constructed so well that they stood the ravages of a catastrophic fire in 1889. Most of these grand buildings still exist today in the downtown core.

Railroad yards ran through the center of town to ship products east. Spokane also became the marketing center for the newly developed wheat farms of Washington’s nearby Palouse Hills. By 1910, Spokane had a population of 104,000 people served by five transcontinental railroad lines, and was the capital of “the Inland Empire of the Pacific Northwest”.

The next decade, 1910 to 1920, saw the end of Spokane’s formative boom period, as much of its silver wealth was lost during the industrial reorganizations brought on by World War I. Although population growth slowed dramatically, the region remained a marketing center for wheat, timber and cattle.

In the mid-1950s, light manufacturing began to dominate when Henry Kaiser, intrigued by cheap water-powered electricity, built two aluminum rolling plants that employed several thousand employees. In 1974, Spokane was the smallest City ever to create and host a World’s Exposition, reclaiming the downtown railroad yards to create a 100-acre green urban park in the center of the City, which became Riverfront Park.

During the 1990s, the Boeing Company built a fiberglass molding facility in Spokane and other start-up and established technology companies – such as Agilent Technologies, Honeywell Electronic Materials, Telect Inc., Itronix Technology Corporation, Itron Inc., and Packet Engines - began to expand in the region. These companies congregated together in the Spokane Valley, creating a mini-version of the Silicon Valley.

Spokane is the major regional hub for business, transportation and services in fields such as health care, education, manufacturing, technology and aerospace. The area has four four-year universities and the largest community college system in the state. In addition, the region has more miles of fiber per capita than any other area in the world, with connections used for industrial, academia and home applications.

With the completion of the 2015 expansion, the Spokane Convention Center has more than 650,000 square feet of user-friendly space including a 120,000 square foot exhibit hall, three ballrooms and the flexibility to host 40 breakout spaces enhancing Spokane’s place on the list of desirable destinations for various groups and associations. Spokane International Airport has completed $108 million in interior and exterior improvements. New restaurants and condos are moving into the downtown core; the U-District connects branches of four universities, Innovate Washington’s labs, a new pharmaceutical and bioscience building, and two hospitals; and the airport technology/business park is expanding.

Even with the growth in health care services, education, technology and manufacturing, the largest employer in the Spokane region remains Fairchild Air Force Base, a fact that is not lost on leaders and residents of the region. The City and the citizens pride themselves on the connection between the Base and the community, and continue to show full support of the service men and women and their families through new and established programs that have been recognized locally, regionally and nationally as “Above and Beyond the Call of Duty”!

Thank you for this opportunity to present our community.

TEAM FAIRCHILD

Team Fairchild comprises the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, the 141st Air Refueling Wing, the 336th Training Group and 16 other associate organizations. Team Fairchild encompasses more than 5,200 active-duty, Air National Guard, associate unit members, and civilian employees. Additionally, the Armed Forces Reserve Center encompasses 13 U.S. Army Reserve and 5 Washington Army National Guard units that are composed of 990 personnel, including 50 full time staff.

Fairchild is the largest employer in Eastern Washington State. The base’s total population exceeds 14,300 with more than 18,000 retirees in the area representing an annual payroll of $244 million. This brings Fairchild’s annual economic impact on the community to approximately $442 million, constituting approximately 13% of the local economy.

92nd Air Refueling Wing As the host unit to Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington, the 92nd ARW operates 35 KC-135 R/T Stratotanker aircraft valued at $1.7 billion to support worldwide military missions, and controls 6,151 acres and 984 buildings valued at $4.2 billion.

The Wing employs more than 2,800 active-duty military, as well as 733 appropriated fund civilian employees.

The 92nd ARW is responsible for providing aerial refueling, as well as rapid and reliable passenger and cargo airlift, and aero-medical evacuations. Fairchild’s missions support U.S. and coalition conventional operations and U.S. Strategic Command strategic deterrence missions. Fairchild directly supports Air Mobility Command’s mission, providing global reach airpower and deploying expeditionary combat support forces in support of worldwide contingency requirements. The 92nd ARW capability of aerial refueling enhances the Air Force’s ability to accomplish its primary missions of Global Reach and Global Power.

The 92nd Air Refueling Wing is structured under four groups: Operations, Maintenance, Mission Support, and Medical, as well as 14 staff agencies organized under the Director of Staff.

The 92nd Operations Group is primarily responsible for two flying squadrons. The 92nd Air Refueling Squadron and the 93rd Air Refueling Squadron both fly the KC-135 Stratotanker. The 92nd Operations Support Squadron oversees the following functions: weather, tactics, aircrew training, aircrew flight equipment, airfield management, air traffic control, combat crew communications, current operations, and the Wing’s flight simulator.

The 92nd Maintenance Group is comprised of the 92nd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and the 92nd Maintenance Squadron. The group provides field-level maintenance support for 35 KC-135 R/T aircraft and over 374 pieces of aerospace ground equipment supporting worldwide aerial refueling and airlift operations. The group also provides services for transient contract and military aircraft. Furthermore, the 92nd Maintenance Group maintains a high state of combat readiness for more than 800 personnel and equipment supporting worldwide contingency and nuclear deterrence operations, while maintaining base munitions.

The 92nd Mission Support Group is built on the pillars of mission, people, families, and community. The 92nd MSG consists of six squadrons comprised of over 1,200 Airmen, civilians, and contract personnel. The group provides professional civil engineers; communications; contracting; logistics; force support; security forces; and combat, community, and family support services for Fairchild and expeditionary commanders. Additionally, through the Wing’s Air Expeditionary Force Cell, the 92nd MSG integrates all Wing readiness functions to train, deploy, and reintegrate up to 1,300 warriors annually who deploy in support of the Global War on Terrorism.

The 92nd Medical Group serves more than 31,000 eligible beneficiaries in the local area and currently has 11,000 enrolled to the Military Treatment Facility. The group has a staff of 307 and an annual budget of $12.6 million. The medical clinic receives over 53,000 outpatient visits and 10,000 dental visits annually. The group consists of the 92nd Aerospace Medicine Squadron, 92nd Medical Operations Squadron, and the 92nd Medical Support Squadron.

Wing staff agencies include finance, legal, plans and programs, safety, command and control, chapel, public affairs, equal opportunity, sexual assault prevention program, protocol, history, information protection, anti-terrorism/force protection, and the inspector general.

141st Air Refueling Wing The 141st Air Refueling Wing reports through the Washington Adjutant General to the Governor in order to respond to natural disasters and times of civil unrest. In addition to the state mission to provide protection of life and property and to preserve peace, order, and public safety for Washington State, the Wing also has a federal mission. The unit’s federal mission is to train, equip, and deploy forces to locations worldwide in support of specific contingency operations.

When mobilized by Congress or the U.S. President, the Wing fulfills its Constitutional role and supports AMC’s airlift and aerial refueling requirements under the 18th Air Force. The 141st trains to provide worldwide aerial refueling to United States and allied aircraft, counter-drug surveillance and interdiction, and combat support across the spectrum of conflict.

Eastern Washington Air National Guard units include the 141st Air Refueling Wing, 242nd Combat Communication Squadron, 256th Combat Communication Squadron, and 560th Air National Guard Band of the Northwest. The combined strength of these units totals 997 members. This includes 705 traditional Guard members, 237 civil service technicians, 35 Active Guard Reserve personnel and 20 temporary technicians. The economic impact to the local area is $55.6 million annually.

The mobility needs of a modern military have seen 141st ARW tankers in all corners of the globe. The Wing has supported Air Expeditionary Forces in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Kyrgyzstan, Germany, France, Italy, Denmark, Turkey, Hungary, North and South America, and Australia. Since becoming a refueling Wing, the unit has supported American forces and its allies in conflicts in Europe and the Middle East, as well as numerous peacetime and humanitarian missions at home and abroad.

336th Training Group The 336th Training Group, a subordinate unit of the Air Education and Training Command headquartered at Randolph Air Force Base, Texas, and consists of the U.S. Air Force Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape School and the 36th Rescue Squadron.

The 336th TRG and the SERE School provide training primarily to aircrew members and personnel who are at high-risk of isolation. Assigned SERE Specialists teach 14 courses to approximately 15,000 students annually. Nine of the 14 courses are taught at Fairchild. Further, the 36th Rescue Squadron supports SERE School training at Fairchild and in the Spokane area through hands-on helicopter operations using four UH-1Ns. In addition to Fairchild, the 336 TRG has five geographically separated units located from Florida to Alaska.

Other associate organizations 1. 509th Weapons School (ACC) 2. 373rd Training Squadron, Detachment 13 (AETC) 3. Army Air Force Exchange Service (AAFES) 4. Defense Commissary Agency (DeCA) 5. Air Force Audit Agency (AFAA) 6. Army Corps of Engineers (COE) 7. Envision Store/HAZMAT 8. Area Defense Council (ADC) 9. Defense Security Forces (DSS) Field Office 10. Defense Energy Support Center (DESC) 11. Joint Personnel Recovery Agency (JPRA) 12. Air Force Office of Special Investigation (AFOSI) Detachment 322 13. Michael Anderson School (Medical Lake School District) 14. D Flight, 368th Recruiting Squadron 15. Naval/Marine Corps Reserve Readiness Center 16. Defense Reutilization and Marketing Office (DRMO) 17. Armed Forces Reserve Center comprised of 13 U.S. Army Reserve Units and 5 Washington Army National Guard units

Fairchild Air Force Base

Since 1942, Fairchild Air Force Base has been a key part of our nation’s defense strategy—from WW II repair depot, to Strategic Air Command bomber wing during the Cold War, to Air Mobility Command air refueling wing during Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Today, Fairchild’s aircraft and personnel make up the backbone of the Air Force’s tanker fleet on the west coast.

Fairchild’s location, 12 miles west of Spokane, resulted from a competition with the cities of Seattle and Everett in western Washington. The War Department chose Spokane for several reasons: better weather conditions, the location 300 miles from the coast, and the Cascades Mountain range providing a natural barrier against possible Japanese attack.

As an added incentive to the War Department, many Spokane businesses and public-minded citizens donated money to purchase land for the base. At a cost of more than $125,000, these people bought 1,400 acres and presented the title to the War Department in January 1942. That year, the government designated $14-million to purchase more land and begin construction of a new Spokane Army Air Depot.

From 1942 until 1946, the base served as a repair depot for damaged aircraft returning from the Pacific Theater. In the summer of 1946, the base was transferred to the Strategic Air Command and assigned to the 15th Air Force. Beginning in the summer of 1947, the 92d and 98th Bomb Groups arrived. Both of the units flew the most advanced bomber of the day, the B-29 Superfortress. In January 1948, the base received the second of its three official names: Spokane Air Force Base.

With the outbreak of hostilities in Korea, both groups deployed to Japan. After only a few months, the 92d returned to the states while the 98th remained in the Far East. The 98th was then reassigned to Nebraska. Upon its return to Fairchild, the 92d was re-designated the 92d Bombardment Wing (Heavy). In November 1950, the base took its current name in memory of Air Force Vice Chief of Staff, General Muir S. Fairchild, a native of Bellingham, Washington. The general entered service as a sergeant with the Washington National Guard in June 1916 and died while on duty in the Pentagon in March 1950. The formal dedication ceremony was held July 20, 1951, to coincide with the arrival of the wing’s first B-36 Peacemaker.

In 1956 the wing began a conversion that brought the B-52 Stratofortress to Fairchild, followed by the KC-135 Stratotanker in 1958. In 1961 the 92d became the first “aerospace” wing in the nation with the acquisition of the Atlas intercontinental ballistic missile. With the new role and the addition of missiles, the 92d Bomb Wing wasre-designated the 92d Strategic Aerospace Wing. However, the designation remained longer than the missiles, as the Atlas missiles were removed in 1965.

On March 15, 1966, the 3636th Combat Crew Training Group was established at Fairchild. In 1971, it became a wing and assumed control over all Air Force survival schools.

Today, the 336th Training Group continues this mission for Air Education and Training Command.

As military operations in Vietnam escalated in the mid-60s, the demand for air refueling increased. Fairchild tanker crews became actively involved in Operation YOUNG TIGER, refueling combat aircraft in Southeast Asia. The wing’s B-52s were not far behind, deploying to Andersen AFB, Guam for Operation ARC LIGHT and the bombing campaign against enemy strongholds in Vietnam.

In late 1974, the Air Force announced plans to convert the 141st Fighter Interceptor Group of the Washington Air National Guard at Geiger Field to the 141st Air Refueling Wing (ARW) and move it to Fairchild. Work began soon thereafter and by 1976 eight KC-135E aircraft transferred to the new 141st ARW. Today, the 141st ARW continues its air mobility mission, flying the KC-135R model.

Following Iraq’s invasion of Kuwait in August 1990, a total of 560 base personnel deployed to DESERT SHIELD and DESERT STORM from August 1990 to March 1991. The 43rd and 92d Air Refueling Squadrons flew a combined total of 4,004 hours, 721 sorties, and off-loaded a total of 22.5 million pounds of fuel to coalition aircraft.

On September 1, 1991, under Air Force reorganization the 92d Bombardment Wing (Heavy) was re-designated the 92d Wing, emphasizing a dual bombing and refueling role.

In June 1992 the wing became part of the Air Combat Command (ACC) and was re-designated the 92d Bomb Wing. As Strategic Air Command finished 46 years of service to the nation, Fairchild bomber and tanker crews took top honors at Proud Shield '92. This was SAC's final Bombing/Navigation Competition. The wing won the Fairchild Trophy for best bomber/tanker team as well as the Saunders Trophy for the tanker unit attaining the most points on all competition missions.

December 7, 1993 marked the beginning of a significant change in the mission of Fairchild when a wing B-52 transferred to another base, the first step in Fairchild’s transition to an air refueling wing. The departure of B-52s continued throughout the spring of 1994, with the last bomber leaving May 25, 1994. With that flight, the bomber mission of the 92d ended after 52 years of faithful duty.

On July 1, 1994, the 92d Bomb Wing was re-designated the 92d Air Refueling Wing (ARW), and Fairchild AFB was transferred from ACC to Air Mobility Command (AMC) in a ceremony marking the creation of the largest air refueling wing in the Air Force. Dubbed as the new “tanker hub of the Northwest,” the wing was capable of maintaining an air bridge across the nation and the world in support of US and allied forces.

Since 1994, the 92d ARW has been involved in virtually every contingency mission around the world. Whether it has been combat operations or humanitarian relief missions, Fairchild tankers have been force extenders, enabling U.S. and Allied aircraft to successfully complete their missions. In addition, 92 ARW KC-135s have routinely supported special airlift missions in response to world events or international treaty compliance requirements.

In 1995 Fairchild flew to Travis AFB, California in support of its first Strategic Arms Reduction Treaty (START) mission, transporting Russian inspectors to sites in the Western U.S. The wing has flown START missions in the U.S. every year since. And in May 2000, the wing became the first active duty KC-135 unit to transport U.S. inspectors on a START mission into Ulan Ude, Russia.

Throughout much of the decade of the 90s, the wing was actively involved in missions to suppress the aggression of Iraqi President Saddam Hussein. Wing personnel answered the call for operations such as DESERT STRIKE and PHOENIX SCORPION and routinely deployed in support of Operation Southern Watch (OSW) and Operation Northern Watch (ONW). OSW and ONW required a constant presence of tankers and associated support personnel to help enforce the UN-sanctioned no-fly zones in Iraq. Southwest Asia, however, was not the only trouble spot, as the wing also had to deploy aircraft and personnel in 1999 to support Operation ALLIED FORCE, the mission to stop Serb aggression in Kosovo.

2001 will be remembered most for 9/11 and America’s response to the Global War on Terrorism. Following the terrorist attacks on our nation, the wing began providing around-the- clock air refueling of Combat Air Patrol fighter aircraft and initiated 24-hour ground alert operations in support of Operation NOBLE EAGLE, the defense of our homeland. Preparations also began for what would become a series of extended Operation ENDURING FREEDOM (OEF) deployments for aircrews and maintainers as well as combat support and medical personnel. Deployments continue today for OEF as well as Operation NEW DAWN (follow-on operations after Operation IRAQI FREEDOM).

On 1 October 2007, the 92 ARW and 141 ARW held a ceremony on 1 October to recognize the beginning of the classic association of the two wings.

In October 2010, The 912 ARS was activated at March Air Reserve Base, CA, and was assigned to the 92d Operations Group. The squadron became an active duty associate unit and was under the administrative control of the 92 OG.

In 2011, the base relocated operations to Grant County International Airport, Moses Lake and Spokane International Airport for 10 month while the base airfield underwent a $34-million runway reconstruction project. Despite significant surge operations throughout the year, the wing was able to support all of its major taskings. The division of responsibilities between the 92 ARW and the 141 ARW at Moses Lake and Spokane resulted in efficient and effective operations at both locations.

The 92d Air Refueling Wing, the associate units at Fairchild, and the Spokane community have forged an impressive relationship over the years. This team, “Team Fairchild,” has earned a well-deserved reputation for excellence. Team Fairchild will continue to meet future challenges in its usual fashion, and in so doing will preserve the legacy of excellence that began over 70 years ago.

Air Education and Training Command (AETC)

Air Education and Training Command, with headquarters at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph, Texas, was established and activated in January 1942, making it the second oldest major command in the Air Force. AETC’s training mission makes it the first command to touch the lives of nearly every Air Force member. AETC was formed in 1942 as the Army Air Corps Flying Training Command with headquarters in Washington, D.C. Less than a year later, the headquarters moved to Fort Worth, Texas. During World War II the command provided technical and flying training at more than 600 installations, factories and institutions of higher learning. The headquarters moved to Barksdale AFB, Louisiana, in 1946, to Scott AFB, Illinois, in 1949, and finally to Randolph AFB in 1957. In July 1993, Air Training Command and Air University merged to form AETC. This re-designation allowed the command to retain all of its previous heritage and honors. The 2005 Base Realignment and Closure plan renamed Randolph Air Force Base, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph. Over the years, more than 25 million students have graduated from AETC training and education programs.

Mission Recruit, train and educate Airmen to deliver airpower for America.

AETC takes America’s sons and daughters – young men and women who have volunteered to serve their country in a time of war – and develop them into Airmen. Develop denotes more than educating or training them – it implies bringing them to embrace our culture, teaching them (by our example) our core values of integrity, service before self and excellence in all we do.

Vision Forging innovative Airmen to power the world’s greatest Air Force.

Personnel and Resources More than 29,000 active-duty members, 6,000 Air National Guard and Air Force Reserve personnel, and 15,000 civilian personnel make up AETC. The command also has more than 11,000 contractors assigned. AETC flies approximately 1,300 aircraft.

Organization AETC includes Air Force Recruiting Service, two numbered air forces and the Air University. The command operates 12 major installations and supports tenant units on numerous bases across the globe. There are also 16 active-duty and seven Reserve wings.

Survival, Escape, Resistance and Evasion Training

AETC also conducts Survival, Escape, Resistance and Evasion training.

The 336th Training Group at the U.S. Air Force Survival School, Fairchild AFB, Washington, provides SERE training to at risk of isolation personnel. Instruction concentrates on the principles, techniques and skills necessary to survive with confidence in any environment and return with honor. In addition, the 336 TRG provides initial and follow-on training to all U.S. Air Force SERE Specialists.

SERE specialists assigned to the survival school teach 15 different courses to approximately 17,000 students annually. Nine ? courses are taught at Fairchild. The other six courses are conducted at 336 TRG detachments at Eielson AFB, Alaska and JBSA-Lackland, Texas.

336th Training Group

The 336th Training Group operates the United States Air Force Survival School. The school provides instruction in Survival, Evasion, Resistance, and Escape (SERE) training primarily to aircrew members. Instruction concentrates on the principles, techniques, and skills necessary to survive in any environment and return with honor.

The 22nd Training Squadron conducts combat Survival Training, which all Air Force aircrew members must attend.

The 66th Training Squadron conducts the SERE Training Instructor Course. This is a five-and- one-half-month program designed to teach future survival instructors how to instruct aircrew members to survive in any environment. The non-ejection water survival course trains aircrew members of non-parachute-equipped aircraft. The resistance training orientation course covers the theories and principles needed to conduct Level C Code of Conduct resistance training laboratory instruction. The SERE training instructor, 7-level upgrade course. This 19-day course, conducted annually, provides 5-level instructors with advanced survival training in barren Arctic, barren desert, jungle, and open-ocean environments.

The 336th TRG is broken into three. The 36th Rescue Flight flies UH-1Ns and aids in the SERE school's jump training while supporting local authorities when needed for search and rescue operations. The 336th Training Support Squadron encompasses more than a dozen Air Force specialties including medical and logistics to support the 336th TRG. The 66th Training Squadron is responsible for training all of the SERE instructors and the 22nd Training Squadron trains all of the Air Force's aircrews.

336th Training Group History

The unit was established in mid-1942 by III Bomber Command as a replacement training unit (RTU) for B-26 Marauder crews. Graduates from Training Command technical, gunnery and twin-engine flight schools would be trained on B-26s, then after graduation be assigned to combat units overseas. The united was inactivated in May 1944.

In 1949, Strategic Air Command (SAC) was concerned about the ability of its aircrews to survive and evade capture if shot down behind enemy lines. It established the 3904th Training Squadron at Fort Carson, Colorado on 16 December to provide survival and escape and evasion skills for its crews. Little more than a year later, on 21 October 1950, it established the 3904th Composite Wing to include the training squadron, the specialized 8th Air Rescue Squadron, and support units.

On 1 September 1951, the 3904th moved to Stead Air Force Base, Nevada and the United States Air Force Survival School was established under the wing. The Korean War made it apparent that this training should not be limited to SAC, and on 1 September 1954, the 3904th was transferred to Air Training Command (ATC) and renamed the 3635th Combat Crew Training Wing (Survival). This wing changed its name to the 3635th Flying Training Wing (Advanced) on 15 July 1958 when it added helicopter training to its mission. The 3635th continued to provide Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape (SERE) training at Stead until the spring of 1966, when Stead closed and the survival school was moved to Fairchild Air Force Base, Washington.

The 3635th Wing did not move did not move with the school. Instead, ATC discontinued it at Stead on 15 June 1966 and established the 3636th Combat Crew Training Group at Fairchild in April 1966 to conduct survival training at its new location.

However, all aspects of SERE training were not unified under the group. By the early 1970s, Pacific Air Forces was running the Jungle Survival School at Clark Air Base, Philippines, while United States Air Forces Southern Command had a Tropical Survival School at Howard Air Force Base in the Panama Canal Zone. Alaskan Air Command had an Arctic Survival School at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska and Tactical Air Command operated a Water Survival School at Homestead Air Force Base, Florida. In April 1971, these schools were brought under the group and squadrons were organized to conduct training at Clark, Fairchild and Homestead, while detachments were established at the other locations.

The group's 66th Training Squadron Detachment 2 was located at NAS Pensacola, Florida in 1993 where it conducted the Parachute Water Survival Course for aircrew flying aircraft with ejection seats jointly with the United States Navy. The separate Air Force School at Homestead was discontinued. Students attending SERE training at Fairchild, were sent on temporary duty to Pensacola for this training. However the school was moved to Fairchild in August 2015 and combined with the existing non-ejection water survival course to avoid the expenses associated with student travel.

Fairchild Air Force Base Awards

2013 Abilene Trophy Award Winner

2006 Abilene Trophy Award Winner

2000 Abilene Trophy Award Winner

Members of the Forward Fairchild Committee include:

Paul Fletcher

Rich Hadley Bill Savitz President Emeritus Executive Director, CEO Greater Spokane Incorporated Ignite Northwest

Christine Johnson, PhD Bill Simer Chancellor Partner Community Colleges of Spokane Eide Bailly

Jeffrey Johnson Nathan Strege Eastern Washington Director Fairchild Air Force Base Office of Senator Maria Cantwell

Larry Krauter William Symmes CEO Attorney Spokane International Airport Witherspoon Kelley

James McDevitt Joe Tortorelli Board Counsel Secretary Spokane International Airport Spokane Area Good Roads Association

Todd Mielke Albert Tripp County Commissioner City Manager Spokane County City of Airway Heights

Scott Morris Clancy Welsh President, Chairman & CEO President Avista Garco Construction, Inc.

Brian Newberry Chud Wendle Executive Director District Director Leadership Spokane office of Rep. Cathy McMorris Rodgers

Theresa Sanders Frederick Zitterkopf City Administrator Retired, USAF City of Spokane

FORWARD FAIRCHILD

Create Something Greater

FORWARD FAIRCHILD

MISSIONS

TANKERS – AIR MOBILITY COMMAND (AMC) AND WASHINGTON AIR NATIONAL GUARD (WANG) Fairchild AFB is the only Tier One active duty tanker base west of the Rocky Mountains. The 92nd ARW and the 141st ARW WANG are in a classic association, with the two wings flying 35 KC-135 tankers and one RC-26B reconnaissance aircraft supporting worldwide military missions, refueling fighter, bomber, reconnaissance and airlift aircraft, as well as providing rapid and reliable passenger and cargo airlift. The 141st ARW, Washington Air National Guard, reports through the Washington Adjutant General to the Governor, a unique relationship that adds homeland defense and civil support capabilities to regional or national responses. SURVIVAL SCHOOL – AIR EDUCATION OTHER MISSIONS TRAINING COMMAND (AETC) In addition to these primary missions, FAFB History shows that the 92d ARW, in classic Fairchild AFB is home to the USAF’s only supports 17 other partner organizations, association with the 141st ARW, support a survival school, preparing over 12,500 aircrew including the Joint Personnel Recovery large share of JCS Priority 1 and 2 missions members and SERE instructors annually. Agency (JPRA) and Armed Forces Reserve particularly considering their size and number The 336th Training Group Fairchild consists Center. “Team Fairchild” reflects a true, of shared assets. The non-stop support of of the USAF Survive, Evasion, Resistance total force enterprise supporting combat Operation Noble Eagle (ONE) with two alert and Escape (SERE) School and the 36th and mobility objectives today and for the crews, maintenance support and aircraft Rescue Flight. In addition to the on-base future. Fairchild has the capacity for 24/7, 365, is a case in point. The 92d ARW Survival School facilities, over 500,000 expansion of current and future missions. has the unique privilege as the only active acres of rugged mountains in the Colville duty unit dedicated to ONE. Likewise, the and Kaniksu National Forests are used for propositional level of support for combat the wilderness survival simulations. This operations over the past decade in Iraq and unprecedented training area is complemented Afghanistan is unparalleled. The KC-46A, by four-season climate, and protected and with its expanded cargo carrying capability, reserved low-level air space for flight and would be a perfect fit to support the critical helicopter training. domestic missions assigned to the 141st ARW to deploy Expeditionary Medical KC-135 WEAPONS INSTRUCTOR Support (EMDS, 30 pallets of equipment), COURSE – AIR COMBAT COMMAND and Disaster Relief Beddown Sets (DRBS, Fairchild AFB is also the home of the only two sets, 39 pallets each), which are based KC-135 Weapons Instructor School. This at Fairchild AFB. unit takes current Instructor Pilots and hones their skills to not only be the best pilots in the KC-135, but also trains them to be experts in how to employ the tanker in wartime operations. Since its inception, the way that tankers are now used has grown more effective and efficient. MISSION EXPANSION

KC-46A - NEXT ACTIVE DUTY MAIN OPERATING BASE Fairchild AFB, the only Tier One tanker base west of the Rockies, is strategically located in the Pacific Northwest within 100 nautical miles of 15 tanker tracks which cuts the cost of enroute fuel and maximizes the offload capabilities. With the National Security Strategy pivoting toward Asia, the location becomes ever more important as tanker bridges will be established closer to Fairchild than any other Air Force pure tanker installation. Our Northwest geography provides a decided advantage in war, and the large, uncluttered local airspace allows for limitless peacetime training without impingement or encroachment. Lastly, if deterrence fails, the base remains critical to the execution of the air-breathing segment of the nuclear TRIAD.

The base is located near numerous Joint USAF WATER SURVIVAL users located just across the state at Joint TRAINING - MOVE TO SPOKANE Base Lewis-McChord and NAS Whidbey Spokane is excited to support AETC and Island and fighter wings when they’re off the 336th Training Group as the Air Force carrier. These units provide a rich variety of moves the USAF Water Survival Training refueling assets both boom and probe and program to Fairchild AFB. This is an drogue alike, and a multitude of loads that important integration of water survival can be accommodated by the new tanker. training that will bring create efficiencies The training ranges at nearby Yakima with a single-site training location that can provide another source to be leveraged. easily accommodate additional students/ Refueling assets, proximity of tanker tracks, year. While the survival pool at the Fitness joint loads and training ranges all add up Center will be adequate in the short-term, to Fairchild AFB as a premiere base for we will advocate for a new, dedicated water bed-down of the KC-46A. survival training facility to be located on the Survival School campus. FORWARD FAIRCHILD

Session $1.5M is in the House budget MODERNIZATION & toward purchasing three mobile home PROTECTION parks that would reduce density another 90 units. The total cost of this project is INFRASTRUCTURE CAPACITY $2.5M and we are working in the Senate Modernization since 1984, including the to close the gap. When successful, the replacement of the runway, construction number of housing units in the APZ-2 of a fitness center and recent construction will have been reduced by two-thirds. Our of a new wing headquarters has increased goal is 100%, of course. The organizations Fairchild AFB’s capacity to accept new and municipalities that have been missions. Airfield pavements, aircraft parking, collaborating on this important project are: fuel storage with resupply capability, fueling Catholic Charities, City of Airway Heights, hydrants and back-shop areas are all City of Spokane, Community Frameworks, excellent. Four hangars with modification Fairchild Air Force Base, Greater Spokane can fully enclose a KC-46A. Flight simulator, Incorporated, Greenstone Corporation, 4 Squadron Operation/AMU and other Habitat for Humanity, HUD, Kalispel Tribe training facilities are already available. New of Indians, Spokane County, and USDA. construction and costs necessary for bed down are minimized by the quality and One of the most major encroachment modern facilities already available for threats to face Fairchild AFB in its 75 housing, dining and support to Airmen. year history is a major resort/casino proposed by the Spokane Tribe of Indians Fairchild also has a tremendous surge and called Spokane Tribe Economic capability for military operations. Additional Project (STEP). Forward Fairchild has aircraft parking spots, hydrants, dry been involved in every aspect of the storage and cargo areas offer the opportunity PROTECTION FROM hearing process and has communicated to conduct a full spectrum of exercises and ENCROACHMENT our concern for the risk to Fairchild’s missions. A weapons storage area also Spokane has a long history of working airspace and air refueling mission. We are offers storage of high value resources and cooperative with Fairchild AFB to preserve attempting to encourage the Spokane Tribe weapon systems necessary for exercises and protect the Base from development to build the resort complex in a different and missions. impacts, including airspace, transportation location away from the base where it will not and land-use. With funding support from impact flying operations of Fairchild AFB or Military Construction Priorities are an the USAF, County and City governments Spokane International Airport. important element of modernization of completed and fully adopted the Joint Land facilities and weapon systems. The six Use Study (JLUS) and additional airport projects on Fairchild’s list are: overlay zones to preserve the viability of 1. Base Operations Facility (AMC) current and future missions. 2. Pipeline Dorm, USAF SERE A number of community organizations and School (AETC) municipalities are currently mitigating issues 3. Consolidated Readiness Logistics in the Accident Potential Zone (APZ-2) at Center (ANG) the end of Fairchild’s runway and working 4. Civil Engineering Complex (AMC) to relocate a residential population that is in 5. CE Heavy Equipment Facility (AMC) sub-standard mobile homes and apartments. In 2013, the Washington Legislature funded 6. Indoor Small Arms Range (AMC) $2.7M to allow Spokane County to purchase Solar World Estates, thus reducing density by over 100 units. In the current Legislative COMMUNITY/MILITARY Room/Trauma Care Training, Regional Small Arms Range, Aviation Education Activity and RELATIONS CBP OAM Bed Down at Fairchild AFB. The priority initiative is: The community has always exhibited outstanding support for its base, its airmen Regional Small Arms Range and their families. This is exhibited through Partnership with Spokane County Sheriff’s a number of organizations: Department Training Office and Fairchild AFB, to construct a regional small • Operation Spokane Heroes is a arms training range to be used by local military support program where law enforcement, military and other businesses and individuals support government agencies from throughout the military families by offering discounted Inland Northwest. Fairchild AFB needs to goods and services. replace its partially enclosed range due to safety concerns and new requirements. • The Forward Fairchild and the The proposed MILCON to build it on base Spokane Military Alliance are is at least 5 years away and the cost is committees of Greater Spokane significant. Working with Spokane County Incorporated that brings the business in partnership Fairchild AFB can accomplish community and military officers from The Air Force Community Partnership this project in a much less expensive all branches of the military together Initiative (P-4 Initiative) was quickly manner saving at least a $4 million for the and celebrates military excellence at addressed by Fairchild AFB and community federal government and US taxpayers. It Let Freedom Ring. leaders, seeking to find cost savings and risk will be built to meet all military and law reductions through mutually supportive enforcement standards while enhancing • The Honorary Commander Program projects. Dozens of stakeholders were training. The City of Airway Heights and matches approximately 80 business involved and they identified five P-4 projects: other agencies involved include DHS, FBI, leaders with officers at Fairchild Air Regional Community Center, Emergency ATF, Border Patrol and State Patrol. Force Base to introduce the officers to Spokane and the surrounding region.

• The Lilac Festival is a weeklong celebration of our armed forces every May, culminating with the annual Armed Forces Torchlight Parade.

• The Spokane Veterans Memorial Arena, built in 1995, was named in honor of our area veterans. It hosts a Veterans Day Ceremony each November. FORWARD FAIRCHILD

SUMMARY

Fairchild AFB has a noble, strategic flying mission. Tankers are the lifeblood of our joint forces’ ability to respond to crises and contingencies. Tankers put the “global” in global vigilance, global reach, and global power. This mission is delivered through a classic association of active duty and air guard. Fairchild AFB is also home to the USAF Survival School. It provides exemplary survival training that prepares Airman for the fight and if something goes wrong, teaches them the ability to survive and return with honor. The Spokane Region wraps its arms around the mission, the Airmen, and their families and is proud to have Fairchild AFB in our community. Greater Spokane Incorporated 509.624.1393 GreaterSpokane.org 801 W. Riverside Ave., Suite 100

Spokane, WA 99201 Create Something Greater Honorary Commanders

The Honorary Commanders program concept was first brought to light in the Inland Northwest in 1982 when the Spokane Regional Chamber of Commerce’s Armed Services Committee and the 92nd Wing Commander, Fairchild Air Force Base envisioned the program to be a great success for building relations between the community and the base.

Since its inception, the program has flourished into a productive resource for the base to connect with the community, as well as the community to better understand the missions of Fairchild Air Force Base, the Air Mobility Command, and the Air Education and Training Command. Selected by the 92nd Air Refueling Wing commander from a list of nominees provided by local chambers of commerce, the Honorary Commanders encompass a variety of community leaders from local business, government, and service organizations. Actively integrating these leaders into the Air Force family builds strong, positive relationships which are vital to the future success of Fairchild and the U.S. Air Force.

The oath administered to our honorary commanders is as follows: “In the spirit of cooperation between our military and civilian friends, you are hereby appointed as an ‘Honorary Commander’ and are empowered to help guide your host unit, to better learn the mission of Fairchild Air Force Base, to participate in unit and wing activities, and most importantly, to have fun and become an ambassador of the United States Air Force! If you agree, please say ‘I will.’”

On an annual basis, since 2000, community leaders have been assigned to military commanders. At that time, however, each commander had up to six community leaders assigned to them, and the program was becoming overwhelming for some commanders. From this dilemma, the community and base developed the concept of promoting current honorary commanders into the “Eagles Association.” Each member of the Eagles Association continues to be invited to all major events at the base by the Wing Commander and continues with the education process of the Eagle.

Eagles are administered the following oath: “In the spirit of cooperation between our military and civilian friends, you are hereby appointed as an ‘Eagle’ and are empowered to help guide the 92nd Air Refueling Wing, to participate in wing activities, and most importantly, to have fun and become an ambassador of the United States Air Force! If you agree, please say ‘I will.’”

About the Program

The Honorary Commanders program is a public relations tool used by the commander whereby community and business leaders gain insight to Fairchild AFB commanders, personnel, programs, operations and facilities. All personnel involved benefit through increased association through formal and informal events weather organized by the wing, group, squadron or community.

All Honorary Commanders are invited to base and unit social functions, tours, briefings, orientation flights and is reciprocal for community events.

Events are scheduled both on and off-base with family events mixed evenly with “couples only” and some “Honorary Commander only” activities. Military commanders are encouraged to invite their counterparts to separate unit events such as unit open houses, dining outs/ins, holiday parties, changes of command, commander’s calls, etc., to increase civilian understanding of the military family way of life.

Identification cards are issued at the beginning of each commander’s term which eases the ability to enter the base for events and require renewal annually.

Nominees for this program come in several forms: . From any of the Chambers in the Spokane and surrounding communities . Current honoraries and alumni can nominate someone who they think would benefit from the program and whom they feel will participate . Fairchild leaders can make nominations . Community/business leaders can make nominations . Typically, former military personnel are not allowed in the program simply because this is an educational program…if you have been in the military, you know the ins and outs however, based on position in the community, some former military are allowed in the program, i.e., Mayor, City Manager, etc.

Nominees are often vetted through Greater Spokane Incorporated and/or Forward Fairchild.

Illuminating Courage Military Memorial in Spokane, Washington

Soaring Skyward,

to uplift the heart and strengthen the spirit; a beacon of light, illuminating the stories

of loved ones lost

while serving our country.

Illuminating Courage represents many things. It is similar in form to a candle, yet unfurls like our flag. Its curving walls spiral inward, like arms embracing a loved one. This represents our community supporting the Gold Star families, and the families holding their memories close. One might see it as a hug or as a protective embrace, watching over the names of our Fallen Heroes. Protective, yet illuminating their stories.

Steel, stone and gleaming gold, traditional and durable materials, represent the strength and character of our service members. Lit from within, the sculpture shows the respect we as a community feel for these individuals that served and sacrificed for us. The glowing and reflected light represents the spirit of our service members, which will forever shine as an example for all citizens. The paver walkway allows the community to honor and remember their loved one’s service.

While the piece is large to draw visitors to the site, its wings also act as a shield for individuals desiring quiet solitude and reflection. Benches give the viewer a place to rest. The open plaza is large enough for gatherings, yet the interior, while open to the sky, offers a feeling of seclusion for private contemplation.

The clean lines of Illuminating Courage stand out against the Arena. The appearance of the sculpture will steadily change as the sun travels across the sky, revealing a play of light and shadow across the steel. Illuminating Courage is strong, resilient, and durable, yet it is not static. Light moves over the surface as we are moved by emotion, paying our respects to those who have given the ultimate sacrifice.

Forever Remembered...

Illuminating Courage was designed by Kathy Swehla, Hazen Audel and the Land Expressions Team.

Ground Breaking September 11, 2015 Dedication Veteran’s Day, November 11, 2015

Let Freedom Ring Armed Forces Persons of the Year Awards

The Armed Forces Persons of the Year is a subcommittee of Greater Spokane Incorporated’s Spokane Military Alliance (formerly the Armed Services Committee). It is designed to honor the Spokane Region’s outstanding military enlisted personnel. 2015 marked the 59th Annual Awards Luncheon honoring those outstanding men and women.

Nominees are selected from the following categories: . Active Duty, grades E-1 through E-4 . Active Duty, grades E-5 through E-6 . Active Duty, grades E-7 through E-9 . Guard/Reserve, grades E-1 through E-4 . Guard/Reserve, grades E-5 through E-6 . Guard/Reserve, grades E-7 through E-9

Nominees are solicited from each branch of the service. They are nominated by their commanding officers.

Candidates are interviewed by a panel of judges selected from businesses who are members of Greater Spokane Incorporated. The interview criterion consists of: . Responsibilities . Ability of self-expression . Appearance, poise & courtesy . Leadership qualities . Education and training . Decorations, awards and honors . Community involvement and civic activities

Nominees range in number from 15-20 each year, of which one winner is announced from each category. A citywide luncheon is then held to honor the nominees and winners, with all receiving plaques of recognition. Sean Owsley, News Anchor from KHQ-TV, our local NBC affiliate, acts as Master of Ceremonies for the event. Typical attendance at this luncheon is between 200-250 community supporters. This event recognizes the best of the best military personnel in our region. But, more importantly, it allows the community to recognize the value of all people in uniform – active duty, guard and reserve – from all branches of the military and their service to our country and communities. We welcome them to community because they are quality people who bring a vitality, diversity and involvement in Spokane. Our support to them and their families is a responsibility that must be maintained.

Spokane Lilac Festival

Mission: The mission of the Spokane Lilac Festival is honoring our Military, Celebrating our Youth, and Showcasing our Region. Established in 1938 the Spokane Lilac Festival is a popular destination event and the nation’s largest Armed Forces Torchlight Parade. The festival dedicates itself to involving youth, the nation’s military, and to the community spirit of the Inland Northwest. The Armed Forces Torchlight Parade’s is almost half military participation. The Spokane community turns the town upside down and comes to support our base and the men and women who give service to us through their military. It’s a wonderful site to see our men, women and children waving the American Flag and cheering our troops and military leaders as they “parade” by. The Lilac Festival also provides a Military Committee whose responsibility is the engagement with our local armed forces and military at large. Throughout the year, they provide an All City Civic Military Luncheon, The Armed Forces Golf Tournament, and representation at Fairchild Air Force Base events and the Fallen Airman Memorial Service. You can find them helping with Toys for Tots at Christmas or out at the base for Operation Cookie Drop that the Spouses Club puts on for enlisted military personnel.

History: According to early records, Lila Sayre was the first person who suggested a spring Lilac Festival. Under the guidance of the Associated Garden Clubs and the Spokane Floral Association (and its general chairman, Mrs. Ethyl Goodsell), a one-day event was planned in 1938, growing to a weeklong festival in the following years. The big event of the first Lilac Festival was a flower show featuring French, Persian and Chinese varieties of the city's flower. The annual event was the brainchild of the late Mrs. Ethyl Goodsell, the president of the Spokane Floral Association. She was general chairman of the first celebration, which put a profuse array of lilacs before the public. The 1938 festival included a lilac show and a small parade with a float designed by Walt Peters as well as a number of community marching bands. Also, lilac shoots were distributed to members of the community. An impressive display of lilacs adorned the Davenport Hotel lobby. The Davenport Hotel fountain was dressed in lilacs for the day. Every vase and jardinières that made the lobby internationally famous was filled with the beautiful blossoms. Guests left with an unforgettable picture of Spokane's first Lilac Festival.

In 1940, Shannon Mahoney was selected as the first Lilac Festival queen. This year was the first year that high school bands were in the parade. The 1941 Queen was Ann Hite and serving as the 1942 Queen Bobbie Judd but in 1942 war conditions took precedence over community events.

No festivals were held in 1943, 1944 or 1945 however with the end of World War II on the evening of June 20, 1945 some 34 lilac enthusiasts met to discuss the formation of a Lilac Festival Association. The following week, on the 26th of June, 1946 the Spokane Lilac Festival Association was officially formed.

Each branch of the service had its own commemorative day. After the war, on August 31, 1949, the Secretary of Defense declared the third Saturday in May to be Armed Forces Day. This single day celebration stemmed from the unification of all branches of the service under the Department of Defense. President Truman declared the first Armed Forces day on May 20, 1950.

Fairchild Air Force Base has an interesting history with Spokane. Citizens thought it so important to have military protection they donated parcels of land for the air field. Opening in 1942, Fairchild has been a dynamic presence for Spokane County.

Combining the patriotism from the victories in WWII and the partnership with Fairchild Air Force Base, the Lilac Festival was knit with Armed Forces Day.

Operation Spokane Heroes focuses on providing support for military personnel and families of deployed military personnel. Operation Spokane Heroes is designed to help the Spokane community show our support to military families as we let them know their importance to the Spokane Region and our country. OSH has helped families of deployed service personnel from the National Guard, Reserves, and Active Duty. Here are some of the ways OSH has supported our men and women in uniform and their families.

 Military Discounts: o By working with the business community to provide military discounts to service personnel and their families.

 Military Carrousel Party (over 300+ have attended each year): o During the holidays each year, OSH rents out the Loof Carrousel at Riverfront Park for all the military kids in this area. We provide unlimited rides on the Carrousel, Santa arrives with gifts for everyone and everyone gets a picture with Santa. We provide pizza and hot chocolate, soft drinks, and water. o Sponsors in the past have included: Dutch Brothers (hot chocolate gift certificates), Albertson’s (candy for the candy bags), Dollar Tree (toys), Northern Quest Casino (hot chocolate).

 Baggie Donations for 161st Army Guard Deployment: o Solicited donations from public for baggies to give to soldiers being deployed to Iraq. Items included: deodorant, soaps, lip balm, tooth brushes, tooth paste, crossword puzzles, games, cards, lotions, power bars, candy, etc. o With amazing coverage from KHQ and KXLY (local television stations), we not only had enough to fill over 300 bags to send with the men and women being deployed, but we also filled several boxes that were shipped overseas with them.

 Food Drive: o OSH partnered with Global Credit Union on a food drive for families of deployed military personnel.

 Support the Troops Rally: o OSH has held several “Support the Troops” Rallies outside of Fairchild AFB and the Naval Operation Support Center (NOSC).

 Welcome Home Rally: o We welcomed home the Marines when they came back from deployment by partnering with the Patriot Guard who escorted their buses from the airport to the NOSC. We were outside the gates with flags and signs welcoming them home.

 Hometown Hero Award: o The OSH chair nominated Jon Higginson, USMC, who has been deployed to Iraq twice, for a Red Cross Hometown Hero Award. He won the award for saving several children from a burning building, at great risk to his own life.

 Reception for Mrs. Holly Petraeus: o OSH partnered with the Better Business Bureau to co-host a reception for General Petraeus’ wife Holly when she was in town over Veteran’s Day. The reception was sponsored by Northern Quest Casino.

 Donation for Christmas Stockings for the 161st Infantry: o OSH donated $500.00 to help the spouses put together Christmas Stockings with candies, disposable cameras, notes from local school children, etc., to send to these re-deployed troops.

 Operation Spokane Heroes Day at the Fair: o The Fair & Expo Center has dedicated 9/11 to Operation Spokane Heroes Day at the Fair, since 2008. They allow us to hand out information on OSH at the gates and to “sell” our Hero cards for a donation. The Hero cards can be signed with a note to their “hero” and we send them to the deployed troops to show our support.

 Holiday Morale Bags/Gift Cards: o For many years, the Kalispel Tribe of Indians and Northern Quest Casino have teamed up with OSH to prepare special Holiday Morale Gift Bags to lift the spirits of hundreds of families of troops that are deployed. In the past we have received generous donations from sponsors including Garco Construction ($1,500) and Avista ($500). We have also received donations from McDonald’s (Big Mac and dessert gift certificates), Dutch Bros (hot chocolate certificates), and Hastings Book Store (certificates).

 Holiday Morale Bags/Gift Cards (continued): o We have donated over 300 bags to the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, WA Air National Guard and Fairchild AFB. In 2011 and 2012, due to a generous $6,000 donation from the Kalispel Tribe we were able to donate 80 - $75.00 WalMart gift cards to our neediest military families. And, in 2013 the Kalispel Tribe increased their donation to $10,000 for 100 - $100 WalMart gift cards!

 Operation Pillowcase: o We have an on-going program that provides pillowcases to the children of deployed personnel with the parents picture on the pillowcase. We also give the parents pillowcases with their child’s picture on it, if they want to take it with them on deployment. That way the children can sleep with their parents each night (and vice versa), or at least with their picture.

Those are a few of our past accomplishments. But, the examples below are the ones we are most proud of, and what we think our mission truly is:

 Wes Hixon Support and Benefit: o Wes Hixon is a soldier from Spokane who was severely injured in Iraq. He is confined to a wheelchair. OSH helped his mother with travel expenses to Seattle on the weekends to see her son, and then was instrumental in helping her get her home remodeled to accommodate a wheelchair so Wes could come home. We also helped with a benefit the family sponsored for Wes to help defer some of the costs of his homecoming and rehabilitation by providing our non-profit status and support in soliciting donations for the auction.

 J. Hanson: o Another soldier we have helped is J. Hanson. He was disabled in an accident while on duty. Through some red tape the Army held up his pay and he fell behind in his rent and bills upon his return. He was not able to go back to his civilian job due to his injuries. While several of our members worked on getting his pay reinstated, we were able to give him some money to pay his back rent and some outstanding bills. We also were able to find someone who generously donated a place for him and his family to live rent-free for the next year.