Welcome to the 65th Force Support Squadron "The Best Never Rest"

Congratulations on your assignment to Lajes Field. Whether you are coming here on an unaccompanied 15 month tour or with your family for 2 years, you will find it to be a rewarding experience on both a professional and personal level. The Lajes Field community is very similar to a small town in the United States. It is a close knit community with many opportunities to get involved in educational, social, community, recreation and cultural programs.

Although Terceira may be small in size, FSS is big on fun and rewarding activities. Here are a few suggestions to ease your transition to the island and then how to make the most of your time here.

THINGS TO KNOW BEFORE YOU ARRIVE

INTERNET RESOURCES:

MilitaryHOMEFRONT is the official Department of Defense web site for reliable Quality of Life information designed to help troops and their families, leaders and service providers. Whether you live the military lifestyle or support those who do, you'll find what you need! http://www.militaryhomefront.dod.mil/

Military OneSource “Military OneSource is provided by the Department of Defense at no cost to all active duty Service members and members of the National Guard, Reserve, and their families. It is the newest member of your military community support team.” — Military OneSource: http://www.militaryonesource.com

Air Force Link http://www.lajes.af.mil

US Air Forces in Europe (USAFE) http://www.usafe.af.mil/

Air Force Move The Air Force Move website "People First" has recently expanded its service to include Passenger Travel. In addition to the vast personal property links, travelers will now have access to a Passenger Directory to assist with locating the nearest transportation office. The goal was to take the best passenger and personal property related links, regardless of the branch of service, and put them in one useful site for our customers. Please take the time to review this valuable site: http://afmove.hq.af.mil/default.asp

LODGING: Your sponsor should assist you with making lodging arrangements. If you want to secure your own lodging simply contact the Lodging Office at COM: 011-351-295- 57-5178; DSN: 535-5178. A credit card is required to secure the reservation. Make sure to notify the Mid-Atlantic Lodge in case the flight is delayed or the check in date has changed. http://www.lajesfss.com/index.php?do=01&fac=25

HOUSING: If you are considering living in base housing don’t delay getting on the waiting list at your base as soon as you have orders. Individuals requiring base housing should contact your current base housing office and submit a DD Form 1746, Application for Assignment to Housing. Your sign up date determines your placement on the list. Your housing entitlement is based on your rank and family size. If government quarters are not available, or if you elect to reside off base, Housing Referral Services are provided to help you locate suitable off-base housing. There are a variety of very nice houses available off base. The Automated Housing Referral network (AHRN) is an online Joint Services housing referral solution that connects military members and their families with available housing in the community. The AHRN is a simple, easy and effective rental listing website that allows you 24/7 access for military members searching for available listings in the area. After you choose from a list of available housing, the housing office and their staff will take you to look at your selections for two days. Please report to the Housing Office in T-112 within 1-2 days of arrival on island for a housing briefing.

There are 400 Military Family Housing units located at Lajes Field. Of this inventory 75% has been either rebuilt or renovated within the past 3 years. This figure includes 82 officer housing units and 318 enlisted housing units. All housing units are equipped with heating/air conditioning systems. Furnishings – Lajes Field is a limited weight area for household goods shipments. All authorized personnel will be provided furniture and appliances by the US Government with the exception of stereos, microwaves, Tvs, and baby furniture. Before you ship any furniture, please speak with your sponsor at Lajes for assistance in deciding what you should bring. Only two pets are authorized in base housing; however, waivers can be granted on a case by case basis. For more information contact the Housing Office at COM: 011-351-295-57-3507; DSN: 535-3507.

EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE WHILE TRAVELING: Make sure you have all important documents (orders, ID cards, passport, travelers' checks, etc.) with you and not packed with your household goods. While traveling, it is important to have contact information for your commander, command support staff, and sponsor readily available should an emergency arise. If you do find yourself in an emergency situation, contact our Command Post for assistance by calling COM: 011-351-295-57-4200; DSN: 535-4200.

The American Red Cross and the Air Force Aid Society are available for emergency assistance. They can provide emergency financial assistance and contact individuals that will need to know where you are and what is happening. To reach your family in times of emergency need, call the American Red Cross Armed Forces Emergency Service Center by calling 1-877-272-7337. The Air Force Aid Society is a non-profit organization that helps the Air Force takes care of its own in emergencies through interest-free loans or grants for basic needs. For emergency financial assistance contact the Air Force Aid Society by calling 1-800-769-8951. All the military services and the American Red Cross have reciprocal agreements with the Air Force Aid Society to assist people in emergency situations.

NATO ORDERS: You will need NATO orders to board the plane. These orders can be done by either your unit CSS or the MPF. Procedures vary by organization so make sure you understand who is cutting the orders and where you get them. The dates on the orders should encompass your entire anticipated tour length at Lajes. Orders must be original signatures in BLUE ink and have an official stamp.

PASSPORTS: Military members do not require a passport for travel to Lajes Field. All family members who are U.S. citizens and will accompany you MUST have a valid U.S. No-Fee Passport. This is a passport issued for 5 years. Non-U.S. Citizens must possess a valid passport from the country of their citizenship. Tourist passports are blue passports which look the same as the No-Fee Passport, but are issued for 10 years. They should not be used for PCS travel. Ensure your Outbound Assignments Clerk processes No-Fee passports for your family members. Start this process as soon as possible; obtaining your family’s passport can take some time.

VEHICLES: Many people ship one vehicle and buy an island “bomb” as a second one. It takes about 2 months for your personal vehicle to arrive, depending on where it is shipped from and how long it has to wait for the next ship.

Undercoating your vehicle is a great recommendation. Mud flaps are required for vehicles manufactured before the year 2000. It may be difficult to find OEM flaps for your car here, so try to purchase and install them before you ship your car. Fog lights are required. If you don’t have them you can purchase a Fog Lamp kit at Auto Hobby for $17.55. The on-base Island Garage can install them for $48.00. There is no trouble getting standard parts here. The Auto Hobby Shop does repairs and they are fast and efficient and carry a good supply of parts.

Word of caution: The roads here are narrow and curvy and the local residents drive fast and park anywhere, including on the side of very narrow streets. This makes an already narrow road very, very tight in which to maneuver. Large vehicles may be a challenge given these driving conditions, but with care, you can get around the island in them.

DRIVING: All newly assigned personnel and family members who intend to drive, must attend the local driving conditions class and obtain a Lajes Field Form 13, Operator License (no test is required). The course is offered during the Right Start Program. Minimum driving age is 18. Members stationed at Lajes must have either a valid stateside license or an International Driver’s License in order to receive the local Operator License. The base will recognize the military clause that most states have allowing extensions after expiration dates; however, it is best to have a driver’s license that has not yet expired. Detailed information may be obtained during “Right Start”.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER (CDC) AND YOUTH PROGRAMS: The CDC, COM: 011-351-295-57-3188; DSN: 535-3188, is for children ages 6 weeks – 5 years. To request care parents must complete DD Form 2606, Request for Care Record. This form is available on line and may be sent to the base before arrival, so that their child may be placed on the waiting list. Click here to download DD 2606 Request For Care. (Requires PureEdge Viewer). A signed copy should be faxed to 011-351-295-572-210. If off Island, include a copy of your orders. Parents are placed on a projected care list. Contact the CDC as soon as you arrive. You will then be placed on a waiting list if care is not immediately available.

YOUTH CENTER: The center is open to all assigned military and civilian personnel dependent youth between kindergarten and 6th grades. The Lajes Teen Center is open to grades 7-12. Please call DSN: 535-3273 or visit http://www.lajesfss.com for more information.

PETS: Pet shipment is limited to passengers traveling in PCS status only and limited to two pets per family. Pets are defined as dogs and cats. Space to ship your pet(s) must be reserved in advance through TMO to fly on the commercial charter. Each pet counts as one allocation. Pets may be shipped on Air Mobility Command Category B flights from certain US ports or via commercial carrier. If traveling in the heat of the summer, check to see if the commercial airline will permit pet travel due to high heat risk. Some airlines will not take the risk during the hottest months of the summer. Make kennel/pet arrangements ASAP (if required). Pets are not authorized in TLF; newcomers may require help to obtain kennel facilities for a month or more. A Portuguese pet import permit is required. Please see Dangerous Dog Breeds to view the laws regarding your canine.

Step 1: Please call to make a reservation 45-60 days prior to arrival to make sure there is space for your animal. You can reach the kennel at COM: 011-351-295-573-855; DSN: 535-3863 or email [email protected]

Step 2: Fax or e mail current vaccination records for your animal. This must be done before you arrive. It also serves to confirm your reservation.

Step 3: A refundable $25 deposit is required. You can ask your sponsor to help you with this or you can give us your credit card number by e-mail or phone. Dogs: Distemper, (this includes Leptospirosis, Parvovirus, Parainfluenza, Hepatitis, Adenovirus), Rabies and Bordetella (Kennel Cough). Cats: Distemper (this includes Rhinotracheitis, Panleukopenia, Calicivirus and Chlamydophilia), Feline Leukemia and Rabies.

Bordetella (Kennel Cough) must be administered at least one week (7 days) prior to boarding, allowing the shot to take effect in the immune system. It is not necessary to wait until 7 days prior to boarding at the kennel to have your dog vaccinated for Bordetella. If a dog has had the Bordetella vaccine in its system for LESS THAN 7 days, the owner will be required to sign a waiver releasing the kennel of responsibility in the event the dog contracts Bordetella while staying in the kennel.

PLEASE NOTE. The Corona virus vaccine is not required for boarding a dog in the kennel. It is recommended for any dog living on the island, however, due to the large number of stray dogs on the island. This virus can be contracted through contact with the feces of an infected dog.

Importation Requirements from US to Portugal

The vaccination requirements to import a pet into Portugal are different than the requirements to utilize the Atlantic Island Kennels.

Proof of rabies vaccination, a health certificate, and a microchip are the main importation requirements. A bilingual health certificate is needed and it can be found at http://www.aphis.usda.gov/regulations/vs/iregs/animals/. The requirements can and do change periodically. For the most accurate information, contact the Portuguese Consulate nearest you. Go to www.state.gov/s/cpr/rls/fco to help you find the Portuguese Embassy nearest to you. Portugal Embassy stateside telephone number is (202) 328-8610, hours are Monday thru Friday 9:00 am to 1:00 pm.

Here is another link to important information that may be helpful: https://vets.amedd.army.mil/vsdodweb.nsf/a0e0e802f3fa0d6d86256591006356d2/4a80 d0c0462f4d4486256605004f5309?OpenDocument#PORTUGAL%2FAZORE

The vaccines required to import a pet into Portugal are different than the vaccines required to use the kennel. The Portuguese only require a rabies vaccine to import a pet. This information was retrieved from the 65th FSS site at http://www.lajesfss.com/kennels.htm.

TMO: Give your sponsor a copy of your orders to ensure your weight entitlement is correct prior to shipping your HHG. Your sponsor can either bring a copy of orders into TMO or you can email orders to [email protected]. If you have ANY questions pertaining to your HHG move, email or call the TMO office at [email protected] or DSN 535- 2305. TMO’s goal is to prevent members from incurring excess cost!!!!

You may elect to ship personal items using the Postal Service to Lajes. For reimbursement TMO will need a copy of all receipts and weights for postal shipments. TMO does not reimburse for insurance. NOTE: Reimbursement is only authorized as long as weight entitlement has not been exceeded.

POSTAL SERVICE CENTER: Your sponsor can obtain a box with a copy of your orders no sooner than 30 days out. TIP: During your outbound briefings inquire about how to get reimbursed for mailing items.

Forwarding Address for Personal Mail:

Name ______

PSC 76, Box ______

APO AE 09720

ELECTRICITY:

EUROPEAN POWER- Locally produced power, like most European electric systems, is distributed to the customer at 220 volt and 50 Hz. This means current and voltage is transmitted in a wave pattern that cycles 50 times per second. The United States electrical power is typically distributed to the customer as 110 volt and 60 Hz. This means current and voltage is transmitted in a wave pattern that cycle 60 times per second.

OFF-BASE POWER- Most houses that are available to rent have step-down transformers which brings the voltage down to 110 volts for the entire house but the 50 Hz cycle remains the same. A small variety of individual outlet transformers are also available at AAFES located on base, if needed.

ON-BASE POWER- Lajes Field AFB, operates on Portuguese produced power, it is distributed throughout base facilities and all housing units at 110 volt and 50 HZ.

FREQUENCY DEPENDENT EQUIPMENT- The 50 HZ power will only affect frequency dependent equipment and appliances. A general guideline to frequency dependent devices is given here and could be used to determine if you want to bring the electrical items you already have, or if you would be better off leaving them in the states. Military personnel previously stationed at other USAFE base’s lived and worked in a 50 Hz environment and can be a valuable reference.

COMPUTERS: There is DSL service here so your personal computer will work well. Although power occasionally goes off, it usually resumes after a short time. Computers are available for your use in the Library, Community Center and the Airman & Family Readiness Center.

CELL PHONES: The phones here range in price from inexpensive disposable to high end. There are two carriers on the island, with a wide variety of contracts. You can purchase internet service, cell phone and cable at the Portuguese Terminal on base. Some US tri-band will work if they are unlocked. Contact one of the cell phone companies for more information.

TELEVISION: The TV is PAL and the American system is NTSC. AFN is free in on-base housing; off base you can get an AFN decoder at the Housing Office. AFN broadcast 10 channels. Local cable is also available on and off base. Some English speaking channels and some with sub-titles are available. The local provider is located at the Portuguese Terminal. Satellite TV is also available off base.

FURNITURE & APPLIANCES: The Housing Office has a good selection of nice furniture, stoves, refrigerators, washers and dryers for people both living off and on base. Beds usually have new mattresses but Queen is the largest size.

THINGS TO KNOW AFTER YOU ARRIVE

AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER: Your A&FRC should be one of the first stops you make as you arrive. We’re located in bldg.T-126, across from the Base Chapel and next to the MPS. Consider us YOUR LINK TO A WELL‐BALANCED LIFE! We know that moving can be stressful! The A&FRC’s professional staff can link you to a myriad of services specifically designed to enhance your transition to Lajes Field, Azores.

Bring us all of your questions and let us assist you; anything from getting settled into your home to developing your nest egg. Our expert staff can provide you with personal services that link you to resources within the base and local community, updating & managing your personal financial plan, coping with unexpected changes and financial challenges from the move, career coaching for spouses, redesigning your personal readiness plan, introducing new spouses to military life, marriage enrichment, linking you to volunteer opportunities, parenting skills building, sponsorship training and more!

 Relocation Tools: The A&FRC has a wealth of resources and information for Newcomers and Sponsors. Plan My Move and Military Installations provide our Airman and family members the next generation of automated relocation tools. These relocation resources are available on both Military OneSource and MilitaryHOMEFRONT. You can customize these interactive tools to provide high quality info and resources to help you manage your move more effectively.  Right Start: The Wing Commander's formal welcome to newcomers, this mandatory day of briefings is designed to inform you on the mission, introduce you to key support agencies and base policies. Spouses are encouraged to attend! Bonus is that you'll take care of many annual briefing requirements by attending. Right Start is held the every other Tuesday and will be scheduled by your MPS. We start at 0730 with a personal brief by the Wing Commander or Vice Wing Commander as well as the Command Chief. Morning refreshments are provided courtesy of the 65 ABW. There is also an opportunity to receive your Portuguese driver’s license while attending Right Start- dependants can join-in to complete this tasking!  Community Orientation Tour: A great way to get to know the island and see some of the magnificent sites Terceira Island has to offer is through the tour offered in conjunction with your Right Start briefing. Each military member must attend Right Start upon arrival and spouses are encouraged to join-in. The tour will be provided by 65 FSS professional tour guides. The 65 ABW ensures that each person attending Right Start has the opportunity to see the island- don’t miss out!  Loan Locker: The loan locker at the Airman & Family Readiness Center has a large selection of kitchen dishes, cookware, utensils and certain appliances for loan at no cost. These items are available for a period of an initial 30 days, but can be extended as necessary. Items are checked out free of charge upon presentation of PCS orders. We do not provide bed linens or bedding; cribs; highchairs; playpens; child car seats; etc. so make sure to ship these items in your hold baggage shipment. Let us assist you with your temporary household items needs. Located at the A&FRC, call for details or stop by building T-126.  Child Care For PCS: The Air Force Aid Society (AFAS) will pay for 20 hours of childcare per child during a PCS move. Bring a copy of your orders to the Airman & Family Readiness Center in building T-126, COM: 011-351-295-574-138; DSN: 535-4138, to receive a voucher for childcare. Childcare is good for 60 days from the day you arrive on island and 60 days from your departure of the island. Since we currently do not have any home family day care providers on base, your child will be referred to either the CDC or Youth Center. Space is limited; please contact the CDC or Youth Center in advanced for availability.

CHECK-IN: Your sponsor should meet you at the airport if you relayed your travel plans. Report to the MPS building T-112 to receive your in-processing checklists. Check with the MPS or your unit to determine when you will start Right Start. Air Force personnel are required to attend the Newcomer’s Orientation (Right Start) at the Airman & Family Readiness Center, Bldg T-126. Right Start is an all encompassing, one location in-process, which is conducted every other Tuesday at 0730-1630. Spouses and civilians are encouraged to attend. Also be prepared to meet with your sponsor/immediate supervisor the morning or afternoon after your arrival. They will brief you on local policies and procedures to ensure you have a successful tour at Lajes.

BASE ENTRY: You will be required to show your ID card to get on and off base. Family members are required to have a Portuguese ID card to enter the base. All military dependents (spouses/children, etc) over the age of 10 MUST get this new ID card in addition to their military ID Card. It will be worn at all times on base. They will go to the glass Portuguese bldg next to the main gate (towards Praia) to get the IDs. Their business Hrs are 0800-1200 & 1300-1545 M-F. Mid-morning/mid-afternoon are slow times for them. AB4 will provide the little metal alligator clip that loops on the card. Dependents do NOT need to have the sponsor with them to drop off application, take photos, or pick up badge; however, if sponsor is NOT accompanying the dependents then the SQ CC should sign & print their name & position on the bottom of AB4 Application (sponsor block).

VISITOR ACCESS: Friends or relatives who visit must have a pass to get on base. Apply through Security Forces, T- 815 at least two weeks before the visit. We are tenants at this base; the Portuguese must approve visitors' passes.

CHILD DEVELOPMENT CENTER: Step 1: Visit Lajes Child Development Center at Building T-209, located around the block from the Base Exchange (our playground is next to the side of the BX building).

Step 2: Please bring your child's current shot record and a LES (pay statement) to the front desk so they can get you started. We require a computer print out of your child's shot record and it can be obtained at the Immunizations Clinic (T-416). We will provide you with the forms necessary to fill out, so that you can have access to the services we provide. A reservation is required 24 hrs in advance along with all necessary paper work completed before a child can attend. A reservation may be cancelled 2 hrs prior to the appointment without charge. If you are a military member and wish to use your 20 free hours of care provided by the Airman & Family Readiness Center (Air Force Aid Society) you may pick up a certificate at bldg T-126.

Step 3: After filling out the proper paperwork your child will be able to start their program. Fulltime care is provided to ages 6wks to 5 yrs old. Once they begin school you will need to sign them up at the Youth Center. Hourly care is offered in all ages on a space available basis with a 24 hr in advance reservation.

LICENSE PLATES: Once at Lajes, you can get your license plates made before your car arrives.

Step 1: Visit the Pass and ID section at building T-112. You will need the following to register your car: Lajes Field Drivers License-you will get this at Right Start.

Current Overseas Insurance. This can be obtained through Geico or USAA (The actual green insurance card or a print out.)

Shipping Document (788)

Step 2: Visit Auto Hobby in T-424 with your proof of registration to receive your plates. Cost $30.00.

Once your car arrives, the Island Garage can assist you in getting your required vehicle safety inspection. CLUB MEMBERSHIP: Club dues at Lajes are a great bargain: E-1 to E-4, $3; E-5 & up, $7; officer and DoD equivalents, $10. In addition to discounts, members can cash checks and exchange for Euros. Many off base landlords require their rent be paid in Euros and ATM machines do not give that much money.

It's easy to join or transfer membership.

Step 1: Attend Right Start Briefing-you will be scheduled for this informative orientation offered by the airmen and Family Readiness Center when you arrive.

Step 2: Bring your Club Card. You will be invited to a lunch buffet at the club where you will enjoy a great meal and receive information about the Services Squadron while you dine. The lunch buffet is free for members and those who join that day. You will receive $25.00 in coupons for transferring your membership.

Free Dues! Three months free dues, if you sign up for membership within 30 days of arrival.

If you do not attend the Right Start briefing, please stop by the club with your membership card and a copy of your orders. Club staff will take care of you.

LIBRARY: The Lajes Base Library provides a rich array of materials--stories, ideas, information & news--that will keep our community informed, enriched and entertained.

Step 1: Visit the Lajes Library at Building T-208, located across the street from the Lajes commissary

Step 2: Come to the front desk with your ID card. You will be entered into the system so you will have access to computers DVDs, VHS, and a large selection of reading materials.

NAF HUMAN RESOURCES OFFICE: Provides information on U.S. non-appropriated fund (NAF) positions in activities such as the Child Development Center, Youth Center, NAF Central Warehouse, Sports Zone, NAF Accounting Office, Marketing, Veterinary Clinic, Atlantic Island Kennels, Top of the Rock Club (TORC), Auto Skills Center, Skating Rink and Swimming Pool as Child Development Program Assistants, School Age Program Assistants, Recreation Aids and Assistants, Materials Handlers, Cashier-Checkers, Accounting Aid, Visual Information Specialist, Office Automation Clerk, Animal Caretakers, Club Operations Assistants and Recreation Aids (Lifeguards). Visit NAF HRO in building T-112 or log onto: http://www.lajesfss.com/index.php?do=01&fac=21

CIVILIAN PERSONNEL OFFICE: The Civilian Personnel Office maintains a vacancy list and offers military spouse and family member preference to eligible applicants who are seeking federal employment. For External U.S. Job searches, visit USAJobs: http://www.usajobs.gov/. For Internal U.S. Job searches, visit AFPC: https://w20.afpc.randolph.af.mil/AFPCSecureNet20/CheckPortal.aspx. Visit the CPO in building T-112 or log onto: http://www.lajesfss.com/index.php?do=01&fac=21

DORMS: All dorms are managed by the Central Dormitory Management Office. There inventory consists of 2 Dormitory 2+2 style rooms. The rooms are available to personnel arriving on unaccompanied orders. Personnel will need to bring their own television, stereo, etc. All E-4's <3 and below will reside in the Dorms. All E-4's >3 and above will be provided referral services for off base housing. All authorized personnel will be provided with Government Furniture support. For more information contact the Dorm Manager at COM: 011-351-295-57-3890; DSN: 535-3890.

SCHOOLS: Education from kindergarten through 12th grade is provided for eligible family members at the Lajes Elementary/High School located in the base housing area. Parents can find current information about the Lajes School at the following website: www.lajes-ehs.eu.dodea.edu. For more information, contact the School Liaison Officer at COM: 011-351-295-574-138; DSN: 535-1314.

CHAPEL: The chapel offers a variety of services for multiple denominations. Please visit bldg T-305 for call COM: 011-351-295-57-4211; DSN: 535-4211 for more information.

PRIVATELY OWNED VEHICLES (POV): Once on the island, call the Vehicle Processing Center (VPC) to find out if your vehicle is available for pick up at DSN 535-6417. Current Overseas Insurance can be obtained through Geico or USAA.

ONCE YOU'RE SETTLED

There's a lot to enjoy when you are here and we don't want you to miss a thing. Find out what's happening:

1. Pick up a copy of Accents, the Services monthly publication

2. Check www.lajesfss.com frequently for the latest info

3. Weekly Services Happenings E-Notes (sent directly to your .mil account)

4. Read the base newspaper, Crossroads

5. Listen to AFN Island 96

6. Read the posters/flyers in the facilities

Make the most of your time at Lajes through the 65th Force Support Squadron Activities: Airman & Family Readiness Center Arts and Crafts Atlantic Island Kennels Auto Hobby Shop Bowling Center Chace Fitness Center Child Development Center Civilian Personnel Office Community Activity Center Education Center Human Resources Office Laundry Library Lodging Marketing Military Personnel Section Oceanview Island Grill Outdoor Recreation Sports Zone Subway Top of the Rock Club Veterinary Clinic Youth Programs

KNOW WHERE YOU’RE GOING

Angra do Heroismo

LAJES FIELD, AZORES, PORTUGAL

Lajes Field is a Portuguese Air Base, located on the island of Terceira. The nine inhabited islands of the Azores archipelago are located in the North Atlantic Ocean, about 2,300 miles east of Washington, D.C. and about 900 miles west of Lisbon, Portugal. Together, they form an autonomous region of Portugal. Lajes Field, known as the "Crossroads of the Atlantic," provides an important mid Atlantic link for US and allied forces to Europe, Africa and the Middle East.

The volcanic origin of all the islands is revealed by their volcanic cones and craters. Pico, a volcano that stands 7758 feet high on the island of the same name, has the highest altitude in the Azores.

The nine islands of the archipelago are divided in three Groups: The Eastern Group of São Miguel and Santa Maria; the Central Group of Terceira, Graciosa, São Jorge, Pico and Faial, and the Western Group of Flores and Corvo.

The outline of the garden-like islands on the horizons of the sea invite peace and quiet. Flowers abound in the fields, in the villages, in the houses. The tranquil blue and green of dreamy lagoons. A pace of life in which there is time to stop and appreciate living. Art treasures that recall pages of a centuries-long history. Nature is revealed in all its original splendor. A meeting with the past involved in everyday life create invitations to discover and experience a different world, repeated on each of the nine islands of the Azores.

LOCAL INFORMATION

HISTORY - The first Americans arrived in 1944 to construct a runway. Over the years, Lajes has provided support to US and NATO operations, Operations DESERT SHIELD/STORM. In March 2003, The Atlantic Summit, hosted by the Portuguese government brought many distinguished visitors to the island, including U.S. President, George W. Bush.

MAJOR COMMAND - United States Air Force Europe (USAFE)

POPULATION SERVED - There are more than 1,700 DoD personnel and their families as well as Portuguese military personnel.

LOCAL CURRENCY: The medium of exchange on Lajes Field is the US dollar. Local currency is the European Euro. The rate changes each business day and is affected by the US dollar’s strength in foreign money markets. Euros are available for purchase at the exchange, Top of the Rock Club, Outdoor Recreation (ATM) and banks located in the Portuguese terminal (713).

COMMERCIAL TAXI: Commercial taxi service is plentiful and relatively inexpensive. A typical ride into the port of Praia costs approximately $7 and a trip to Angra is about $18. Ask the driver in advance to negotiate the price. Call 295-512654, 295-512092, or 295-512151 for commercial taxi pick-up. The dispatcher will give you the license plate number of the taxi that will come for you.

LOCAL DINING: There are many fine restaurants in the Lajes vicinity which feature excellent Portuguese food at reasonable prices. Most restaurants have an English menu. You may also wish to ask any of our permanent party personnel for recommendations of local eateries. It’s recommended that you don’t eat butter or cheese that is not in sealed individual packets.

UNIFORMS OFF BASE: Uniforms are not to be worn off base or outside of vehicles in accordance with our host- nation agreement. This includes even quick convenience stops. The only exception to this rule is to pay a phone bill, water bill, electric bill, rent and those attending official functions at the golf course.

WEATHER: High winds in excess of 50 knots (57.6 mph) are common. Wind warnings are announced through AFN radio and television programming. When wind warnings are in effect, stay inside as much as possible, keep curtains drawn, and be alert for flying objects when you must venture out of doors. Be especially careful when opening and closing doors to buildings and cars.

THE FOUR MISSION PILLARS: Move Iron to and from the Fight Deliver Global Communications Provide Trained and Ready Expeditionary Airmen Enhance Bilateral Relations

Provide Trained Maintain and Be the En‐Route and Ready Improve Great Stop of Choice for Deliver 24/7/365 Expeditionary Bilateral Moving Iron and Global Airmen to the Relations with People to and Communications. Combatant our Portuguese from the Fight. Commanders. Hosts.

Balanced AFSO21 Application Across the Pillars