Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page 

Vol. 65, No. 32 , Fla. Training Expeditionary Airpower Experts Aug. 18, 2006

In Brief

Change of Command The Change of Command Ceremony will be held at 3:43 p.m. Aug. 25 in the 43rd FS hangar, Bldg 290. Lt. Col. David A. Krumm will assume command from Lt. Col. Michael P. Stapleton.

Military World Soft- ball Tournament Tyndall Lady Tigers teams continue to com- pete with military soft- ball varsity teams at the 2006 Military World Softball Chamionship. Games started Thursday and continue through Sunday at Frank Brown Park, Panama City Beach. For more infor- Master Sgt. Scott Reed mation, call the park at Power up (850) 236-3037. Airman 1st Class John Hahn, 325th Maintenance Squadron engine mechanic, performs a post-test in- spection on an engine in the “Hush House.” The test was captured on video by a production company Inside for the new Air Force ad campaign “Do Something Amazing.”

EPR senior rater policy update ... Page 6 Web service users face OPSEC risks Darren Tillman groups are actively seeking to alarming, is that some sites vulnerabilities in our defense AETC announces force OSI Detachment 419 Commander gain information from them don’t independently verify the systems,” said Capt. Garrett. reduction ... Page 8 With more than 80 million using the internet as a source,” identity of its users. “Don’t help them. Do not users, MySpace service and place photos that identify you Tyndall and Air Force im- said Capt. Mike Garrett, 325th Utilizing the anonymity other personal Web site provid- Fighter Plans deputy chief of the service, opposing in- as a military member. Do not prove F-22 ... Page 9 ers empower users to commu- and base anti-terrorism officer. telligence services, terrorist advertise what your Air Force nicate with a world-wide online “What you do on these sites organizations and enterprising job is and do not ever release network of friends, and unfor- may be personnel, but when criminals can use the service OPSEC information. tunately, potential enemies. you expose information about to target Air Force members. Be cautious before answer- Operational security is the Air the government and release They “become” anyone they ing e-mails. Always think Force Office of Special Investi- operationally secure informa- want to be in order to target Air about force protection and ask gations’ primary concern with tion it becomes a threat to our Force personnel who may have yourself, ‘Why is this person Air Force members’ who use national security,” he said. access to secure information asking more about me and MySpace and other services. MySpace, and other ser- they are seeking. what I do?’” “Our military and civilian vices, don’t charge users to “Our enemy has a unique The free online social net- B-Course students in members need to be aware set up profiles or establish an method of piecing informa- working service Web sites flight ...P age 11 that extremist and terrorist account. What can be more tion together, so they may find • See OPSEC Page 19

Trust, Teamwork, Training Page  Gulf Defender Aug. 18, 2006

ON THE STREET How do you stay informed on current events and news?

1st Lt. Amanda Ferrell Holed up Airman 1st Class Michael Robledo (left), and Senior Airman David “I get my news from CNN on “I watch local news every morn- Franklin, 325th Communications Squadron cable technicians, in- stall 100-pair copper cable. The four-day project will bring Local the internet – the TV should be ing and watch national news ev- Area Network and telephone services to a building for headquar- saved for sports.” ery evening.” ters Air Force Civil Engineer Support Agency. Tech. Sgt. Tom Poplin Capt. Terry Katrina 325th Mission Support Squadron 325th Communications Squadron Identify this ...

Can you identify this ob- ject? If so, send an e-mail to [email protected] with “Identify this” in the sub- ject line. Three correct en- tries will be chosen at ran- dom and drawn from a hat to select the final winner. The prize can be claimed at the Public Affairs of- fice. Kari Baily, a military “The internet has all the infor- “CNN, local newspapers and ra- spouse, correctly guessed mation you need. I mostly go dio stations keep me informed.” the Aug. 11 “Identify this” online to news sites.” as birthday candles. Con- Tech. Sgt. Clayton Abbot 325th Operations Support Squadron gratulations, Mrs. Baily. Senior Airman Gabriel Alvarez Come claim your prize! 325th Communications Squadron

The Gulf Defender is published by the Panama City News Herald, a private firm in no Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with Tyndall public affairs office. Photographs are U.S. Air Force photos unless otherwise Gulf Defender Editorial Staff Air Force Base, Fla. This civilian enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized noted. publication for members of the U.S. military services. Contents of the Gulf Defender The deadline for article submissions to the Gulf Defender is 4 p.m. Friday, prior Brig. Gen. (S) Tod Wolters...... 325th FW commander are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, De- to the week of publication unless otherwise noted. Articles must be typed and partment of Defense or Department of the Air Force. double-spaced, preferably on a 3.5-inch disc. Stories should be submitted di- Maj. Susan A. Romano...... chief, 325th FW public affairs The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, rectly to the public affairs office, Building 662, Room 129 or mailed to: 325 Chrissy Cuttita...... chief, internal information does not constitute endorsement by the DOD, the Department of the Air Force or the FW/PAI, 445 Suwannee Ave., Tyndall AFB, FL, 32403-5425 or e-mailed to edi- 1st Lt. Amanda Ferrell...... staff writer Panama City News Herald of the products or services advertised. [email protected]. Public affairs staff members edit all material for accuracy, Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use brevity, clarity, conformity to regulations and journalistic style. The delivery of Staff Sgt. Stacey Haga...... editor or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital the Gulf Defender to Tyndall base housing sections is provided by the Panama status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the City News Herald. purchaser, user or patron. For more information, or to advertise in the newspaper, call (850) 747-5000. Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page  Commentary History lessons learned, ‘basics’ take Airmen to future Lt. Col. Raymond O’Mara reported annually to the Chief of Staff of the Air Aviators and maintainers of the F-15 and F-22 83rd Fighter Weapons Squadron commander Force, and provides the foundation for our combat aircraft have a dramatically different skill set than Throughout our history as an independent ser- performance expectations. their predecessors on the F-100 and F-106. How- vice, the U.S. Air Force has delivered lethal combat Combat Archer grew out of the air-to-air combat ever, even as systems have become more complex, power in defense of our nation. As the threat to our results from the . In Vietnam, there success has remained the consistent result through- national security has evolved, so has our force. was a significant decrease in our success rate com- out. This is due to one thing – constant emphasis Today’s Air Force mission is more complex than pared to that seen during the Korean War. Along on executing the basics well. in the past. At one time, we could identify our en- with Red Flag and the Aggressor program, Combat Good maintenance discipline and practices keep emy on any grade-school map. aircraft flying and combat ready. Now, as recent events have Flying a good formation and shown, our enemy may be liv- executing as a solid, dependable ing among us. As we continue Wingman provides lethal com- to evolve our lethal combat Air bat capability. No matter how Force, we need to remember complex the system, success is that our past successes were always dependent upon solid founded in solid execution of execution of the basics. This the basics. principle applies to everything The 83rd Fighter Weapons we do. Squadron executes Combat Ar- Another one of our basics is cher, the treating each other with respect. commander’s directed air-to- As a military organization, we air Weapon System Evaluation have an established hierarchy. Program. The squadron’s mis- MSgt Michael Ammons It is a tradition and it provides sion is to evaluate the air-to- Maj. Mark Irving, a F-15 Eagle instructor pilot fires an a foundation for the Air Force air fighter weapon system kill AIM-7 Sparrow medium range air-to-air radar-guided missile over the Gulf of as a team. chain, from the human, to the Mexico during a Combat Archer exercise and weapons evaluation in April. It guides our daily interaction. machine, to the weapon. Archer is designed to strengthen our combat forces Respect is something earned, but in an organization Combat Archer is unique to the Air Force and is through realistic training in a combat-representative as large as the military it is inevitable the only test or evaluation program that uses opera- environment. that you will interact with someone you do not know. tional aircrews, maintainers, aircraft and weapons. By evaluating the performance of the entire Military rank sets the guidelines for that interaction. This enables us to evaluate the effectiveness of our weapon system, we are able to identify areas We respect the individual represented by the rank training, aircraft and weapon performance. for improvement, thus strengthening our combat that they wear on their shoulder or sleeve. By teaming with the four other squadrons in capability. Since the program’s inception in the This is a part of who we are as American war- the 53rd Weapons Evaluation , the 83rd early 1980s, the nature and complexity of air-to-air riors. We maintain our relationship and ability to FWS hosts fighter units from across the Air Force combat has changed dramatically. function as a team by respecting each other within and numerous foreign military allies, where they Weapons and aircraft have become more com- the rank structure. It is one of the many long-es- gain valuable live munitions loading and firing plex, providing more combat potential. This in- tablished basics that has made us the lethal force experience. crease in complexity has necessitated a significant that we are today. Military members are different They also provide critical performance data evolution in the men and women who fly and fix than civilians, and this is one of the ways. It is part on our front-line weapon systems. This data is these systems. of what defines us and makes us great.

Action Line The Action Line is your direct line problem, call me at 283-2255. MPF 283-2276 Call 283-2255 to me. It is one way to make Tyndall a For fraud, waste and abuse calls, SFS Desk Sgt. 283-2254 better place to work and live. you should talk to the 325th Fighter Services 283-2501 The goal is to provide you with an Wing Inspector General’s Office, Legal 283-4681 accurate, timely response. You must 283-4646. Housing 283-2036 leave your name, phone number or Calls concerning energy abuse CDC 283-4747 address to receive a response. should be referred to the energy hot Wing Safety 283-4231 Questions or comments of general line, 283-3995. ADC 283-2911 interest will be published in this forum. Below are more phone numbers Finance 283-4117 This avenue should only be used after that help you in resolving any issues Civil Engineer 283-4949 coordinating problems or concerns with a base agency. Civilian Personnel 283-3203 with supervisors, commanders, first Commissary 283-4825 Base Information 283-1113 sergeants or facility managers. Pass and I.D. 283-4191 Thank you for helping me improve If you’re not satisfied with the re- Medical and Dental 283-7515 Tyndall and I look forward to hearing Brig. Gen. (S) Tod Wolters sponse or you are unable to resolve the MEO 283-2739 from you. 325th Fighter Wing commander Page  Gulf Defender Aug. 18, 2006 Know what to do when lightning strikes close to home John Powers can become a prime target. When outdoors during a thunderstorm, immedi- 325th Civi Engineer Squadron Fortunately, following basic safety guidelines ately get away from pools, lakes and other bodies of Do you know what weather phenomenon kills can greatly reduce your chances of injury or death water. Look for the nearest shelter with a lightning more Americans than floods, hurricanes and torna- from lightning. One of the best personal safety protection system, like those found at golf courses, does combined? guidelines, according to the Insurance Information public parks and swimming pools. A car with the It’s lightning. Lightning kills nearly 100 people Institute, is called the “30/30 Rule.” If it takes less windows rolled up makes an excellent shelter from every year and injures another 300, according to than 30 seconds after you see lightning to hear lightening. the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Adminis- thunder, you should get indoors and stay inside for If you feel a tingling sensation, your hair stands tration. According to the Insurance Information 30 minutes. on end or you smell sulfur, lightning may be about Institute, it also causes more than $1 billion in When lightning is in close proximity and you are to strike. Immediately crouch down and cover your insurance industry losses from residential claims taking shelter indoors, remember to stand clear from ears. Don’t lie down or place your hands on the each year. windows, doors and electrical appliances. Don’t ground because a lightning strike may momentarily Packing 100 million volts of electricity – a force attempt to unplug televisions, stereos or computers electrify the ground beneath you. similar to a small nuclear reactor – lightning is just during the storm. Avoid contact with metal piping, Bottom line … lightning will kill you if given the too risky for you to ignore. Most lightning deaths including sinks, baths and faucets. Also avoid using chance. Don’t become a statistic. Following these and injuries occur when people are caught outdoors the telephone, except for emergencies. simple guidelines, paying attention to your surround- during storms in the summer months, mostly in the Never use a tree for shelter when you are outdoors ings and taking heed of nature’s warnings will defi- afternoon and early evening. and unable to find safe cover. Avoid areas that are nitely increase your odds of surviving the storm. Lightning seeks the path of least resistance. higher than the surrounding landscape, and keep Please direct any questions to the 325th Civil If you are taller than your surroundings or are away from metal objects, including bikes, golf carts, Engineer Squadron’s fire and emergency services at standing next to a tall object, such as a tree, you fencing and machinery. 283-2909 or the readiness office at 283-2010.

Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page  Page  Gulf Defender Aug. 18, 2006 Officials announce EPR criteria, policy Master Sgt. Mitchell L. Gettle “Individuals must still meet the same Air Force,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Print News criteria outlined in the Air Force Instruction Air Force Rodney J. McKinley. WASHINGTON (AFPN) – The Air Force on senior rater qualifications,” said Sergeant Stratification statements on EPRs will has released a policy to clarify senior rater Kennedy. “In addition, it’s now official also change. Statements will only be al- endorsement and stratification procedures policy that they also complete Senior NCO lowed on EPR’s of those master sergeant for enlisted performance reports. Academy and their CCAF degree.” and senior master sergeants who are time- While many supervisors and senior The implementation dates will be for the in-grade promotion eligible for senior rater NCOs looked to completion of the Senior calendar year 2007 chief master sergeant endorsement. Stratification statements on all NCO Academy and a Community College and calendar year 2008 senior master ser- other EPRs, to include chief master sergeant of the Air Force degree as criteria for con- geant promotion cycles. This transition time reports, is prohibited. Instead of stratifica- sideration of a senior rater endorsement for provides senior NCOs the opportunity to tion statement use on chief master sergeant promotion to the ranks of senior and chief complete the requirements, said Chief Mas- EPRs, evaluators will focus comments on master sergeant, no official policy existed. ter Sgt. Trenda Voegtle, chief of enlisted future job recommendations. The new policy clarifies and standardizes evaluations and promotions policy. “As a result of the perception that strati- criteria for endorsement and stratification The CCAF degree is an occupational fication is required for promotion, raters statements. education degree. Specific programs are have started using multiple, uncontrolled “Senior raters must have completed the designed to provide students with the neces- stratification schemes that only add to the Senior NCO Academy either by correspon- sary backgrounds to perform as competent confusion promotion board members feel dence or in-residence, and have a CCAF supervisors in their field. when trying to identify the right people for degree for endorsement eligibility,” said “This policy re-emphasizes the impor- promotion,” said Lt. Gen. Roger A. Brady, Tech. Sgt. Jamey Kennedy, 325th Mission tance of deliberate and timely (profes- deputy chief of staff for manpower and Support Squadron NCO in charge of evalu- sional military education) and CCAF personnel. ations and decorations. completion for our enlisted force, formal- “To ensure stratification statements re- The policy notes that meeting these ly instills the developmental expectation, main a valuable tool, we must ensure they requirements is not a guarantee for senior and ensures a consistent policy for senior rater endorsement. rater endorsement eligibility across the • See EPR Page 21 Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page  Thrift Savings Plan augments federal employee retirement RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, pay, length of service and other factors tory and other voluntary deductions calendar year 2006 is Dec. 9. Catch-up Texas – The Thrift Savings Plan’s au- to determine a monthly annuity, and that occur ahead of TSP contributions, contribution enrollment for 2007 will tomatic and matching contributions Social Security benefits. no TSP contributions will be withheld, be available beginning Dec 10. form a key part of the Federal Employ- TSP, also open to Civil Service and, if covered by FERS, no “To maximize agency-matching ees’ Retirement System offering fed- Retirement System federal agency matching contribu- contributions, FERS employees must eral civilian employees opportunities employees, provides tions will be received. contribute an amount equal to five to increase their retirement income. two investment pro- – People age 50 or percent of their basic pay each pay FERS civilian TSP account holders grams for civilians: older, in a pay sta- period to receive agency matching automatically receive a deposit equal to regular TSP contri- tus and who can contributions each pay period,” said one percent of their basic pay each pay butions and TSP certify they have Ms. Thomas. “Early large contribution period once they are eligible, as well catch-up contribu- contributed (or attempts to maximize earnings usually as agency matching contributions up to tions for eligible will contribute) fall short of the value of lost agency four percent if they contribute at least employees age 50 the full $15,000 matching contributions.” five percent of their own money. and older. maximum to a Air Force-serviced civilians will “These payments into a FERS Plan highlights regular TSP ac- submit enrollment elections or changes employee’s account, along with the for 2006 include: count or other for regular TSP or catch-up contri- Thrift Savings Plan’s investment – Employees cov- 401(k) plan, may butions via the Employee Benefits flexibility and fund options, make it ered by FERS and contribute an addi- Information System Web application a potentially valuable part of a FERS CSRS may contribute tional $5,000 as catch- or the BEST automated phone system. employee’s retirement nest egg,” up to $15,000 to a regular u p c o n t r i b u t i o n s . Instructions on how to access these said Janet Thomas, human resources TSP account. They may des- – Eligible individuals systems are on the BEST Website, specialist at the Air Force Personnel ignate any whole percentage of basic may enroll, change, stop or re- ask.afpc.randolph.af.mil. Additional Center, Randolph AFB, Texas. pay or a whole dollar amount each pay sume catch-up or regular contribu- information on regular TSP and catch- The other two parts of the FERS period. However, if a whole dollar tions at any time during the year. up contributions are also available on retirement program consist of a basic amount is designated and the amount – The last day civilians may submit the site. benefit plan, which considers basic exceeds remaining salary after manda- a catch-up contribution election for (Courtesy of AFPC) Page  Gulf Defender Aug. 18, 2006 AETC announces civilian authorization reductions RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, commander. “We are going to work with Texas – Air Education and Training every individual and hope to find viable Command officials are looking at ways options and opportunities to make this to streamline organizations into smaller, work for us and our Air Force.” more agile forces and organizational struc- “This will not be an easy process, or tures to reduce the effect of reductions in one without pain,” he said. “We have re- the civilian workforce next spring. cently determined the overall number of The Air Force plans to reduce its positions our command is going to lose. civilian workforce strength by 2,000 Now, we are concentrating on finding the positions during FY07 as a result of most efficient, least painful approach to Program Budget Decision 720. implementing those reductions.” “This is not just an AETC effort. Every Patterson said AETC should 1st Lt. Amanda Ferrell command and organization in the Air pass the number of authorization reduc- Force is transforming to a smaller, leaner tions to the wings shortly. Price check and more capable force all while engaged “At that time, we will be able to Ms. Cynthia A. Nitura, cashier and 2006 Defense Commissary in combat operations,” said Col. Greg F. discuss the options available for us to Agency Equal Employment Opportunity winner of the year, Patterson, AETC manpower and person- provide support to all affected employ- scans items at Tyndall’s commissary. She said she has enjoyed nel director. “Part of this is driven by our ees,” he said. working for DeCA for nearly 17 years, 10 of which have been at Air Force’s urgent need to modernize our Colonel Patterson then described the commissary here. Outstanding customer service and com- fighter and mobility aircraft.” some of the possible support options munity involvement were the criteria for winning the award. The colonel explained the people por- that may include placing employees tion of the budget equation is one of the in other vacant positions, Voluntary few places left to attain large, long-term Early Retirement Authority, Voluntary financial changes. Separation Incentive Pay and place- “It’s a very delicate balance between ment via the Department of Defense ensuring we are taking care of our people Priority Placement Program. while we strive to generate savings in a Noting that any reduction in the constrained budget environment as we number of civilian authorizations can try to recapitalize the Air Force,” said potentially lead to a reduction in force, Colonel Patterson. Colonel Patterson said, “Using the pro- “I want our civilian work force to know grams we have available and in place, we are very concerned about the impacts we believe we can minimize any impact of any force reductions within the com- on our civilian work force.” mand,” said Gen. Bill Looney, AETC (Courtesy of AETC) Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page  slated for F-35 training mission EGLIN AFB, Fla. – Air Force of- avionics, propulsion assumes the F-35 training mission. ficials announced plans to assign the systems, stealth and In the next few years, AETC will mission of training new Navy, Marine firepower will make stand up a new wing structure for the F- Corps, Air Force and allied F-35 Light- it an affordable, le- 35 training mission with approximately ning II Joint Strike Fighter pilots and thal, supportable and 2,200 people. It is unknown at this time maintainers to the 33rd Fighter Wing, survivable aircraft for how many people will transfer from Eglin AFB, Fla. warfighters around the one mission to another. Final planning for the move is de- globe. The 33rd FW, whose mission is to pendent on the results of the ongoing The 33rd FW’s “maintain the world’s best rapidly de- environmental impact analysis process F-15 Eagles will be ployable air control and air superiority Chief Petty Officer Eric A. Clement that is required by the National Envi- Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Mose- redistributed through- forces for theater combatant command- ronmental Policy Act and designed ley announced Lightning II as the name of the out the Air Force to ers,” is a combat-flying unit assigned to identify and assess potential envi- F-35 during a Joint Strike Fighter inauguration active duty and Air to ACC’s 9th Air Force and is a major ronmental impacts of the proposed ceremony July 7. National Guard units, tenant unit at Eglin AFB, Fla. action. replacing older F-15s For additional information on the The first of the F-35s, a family of personnel and all three versions of in the inventory. The final F-15 is slated new training mission, contact AETC next generation, stealthy, multi-role the new fighter – conventional takeoff for reassignment in the summer of fiscal Public Affairs at (210) 652-4400. For , should begin arriving and landing, short takeoff and vertical year 2010. The wing also will transfer other questions regarding ACC or the by 2010. The wing will include Sailors, landing and carrier variants. from Air Combat Command to Air Edu- 33rd FW, contact ACC Public Affairs Marines, Airmen and allied military The Lightning II’s advanced airframe, cation and Training Command when it at (757) 764-5007. Team Tyndall joins Air Force in developing F-22 FCR Units save significant cost to solve technical Raptor issues Senior Airman Samuel King Jr. submitted for only some of the Raptors to be modi- “The unit needed to be funded and flight certified, Public Affairs fied, which meant they couldn’t be tested at WSEP security requirements had to be addressed, software , Fla. – A Weapon and the cost would still be very large. had to be written to read and process the data after System Evaluation Program data collection modi- In May, members of the 53rd WEG were already it was recorded,” said Jim Moore, 53rd Test Sup- fication ... $350 million. Thinking outside of the brainstorming the problem and possible solutions. Af- port Squadron technical advisor. “Tests had to be box ... $55,000.. Air Force supporting Air Force ... ter a close inspection of an F-22 by Raytheon engineers, developed to verify operation on a jet with multiple priceless! and viewing the in-flight cases housed in the Raptor’s missiles and to verify the unit wouldn’t affect the That’s a perfect description of the process used to external weapons stations, an idea emerged. Raptor’s flight controls,” analyze, develop and test a new Advanced Medium The cases, which held spare wings and fins used In June, the first FCR test began with the 43rd Range Air-to-Air Missile data collection system for on extra AIM-120 missiles, could be used to store Fighter Squadron. Don Linn and his missile support the F-22 Raptor. something else. The engineers made arrangements team from the 83rd FWS consolidated munitions, Four wings, located at three different bases, to take the cases to Al Berard, devel- prepared the missiles and worked with Raytheon worked side-by-side to solve the 83rd Fighter Weap- opment branch chief assigned to Eglin AFB, Fla. and Mr. Berard to ensure the telemetry signal could ons Squadron WSEP’s critical data collection issue “Mr. Berard and his team have been modifying jets be seen and recorded from all four missiles. in less than three months. at Eglin for decades and have years of experience with Since the first test adjustments, the modified units “Early in the F-22 program, the problem of receiv- in-flight telemetry systems,” said Mr. Starr. have now flown seven times on the Raptor and ac- ing AMRAAM telemetry signals (transmission of After hearing what was needed, Mr. Berard and curately captured data from two AIM-120C missile data from the missile to ground receiving site) while his six-person team put together a working prototype launches. the missile is still in the bay has been the cause of in less than two weeks. “Analysis confirmed that the data captured by great concern for the engineering community due to “We had to provide the means of receiving and the FCRs is absolutely pristine with no noise or the stealth capabilities of the jet,” said Doug Ayers, recording data on the F-22 without installing in- dropouts,” said Mr. Starr. “And the FCR is not just 53rd Weapons Evaluation Group lead Raytheon strumentation or deriving power from the aircraft,” limited to the AIM-120 data. It can also collect Missile Systems engineer. said Mr. Berard. AIM-9 data and any other data used in the standard Due to the Raptor’s internal AIM-120C missile The flight case was a perfect fit. telemetry band including bombs.” stations, 83rd FWS WSEP evaluators were missing Dubbed the “Flight Case Recorder,” the battery- Based on those tests, the FCRs are becoming part of critical missile cueing data. powered unit would contain a programmable re- the F-22 inventory. The total cost for this new equip- “This data is critical in determining the target lo- ceiver that adjusts to the frequency and transmission ment is a fraction of the initial modification plan. cation the F-22 sends to the missile during its launch speed of a given missile. The data would record to “My hat is off to the folks in the 53rd WEG, 46th cycle,” said Gordon Starr, Raytheon senior systems a compact flash card like those commonly used in TEST, 43rd FS, 83rd FWS, 94th FS, and the F-22 engineer. “Although many options were discussed, digital cameras. The unit fits neatly into the Raptor’s special projects officer,” said Col. Mike Winslow, none were viable due to the high price tag, so an in-flight case, keeping it separate from any controls 53rd WEG commander. “This is a prime example alternative plan had to be devised.” or electronics. of how tough problems can be solved quickly by Originally, the proposed modification plan was to Now that the idea had become a reality, there was motivated individuals using some ‘out of the box’ cost $350 million, he said. Then another plan was coordination and certification to be done. thinking and teamwork.” Page 10 Gulf Defender Aug. 18, 2006

Telecommunications Monitoring

Airman 1st Class Antoinette Doctor Department of Defense-owned or leased telephone systems, Services apprentice Duty title: facsimile machines, data mo- Time on station: Three years, two months dems, cellular telephones, and Time in service: Three years, two automated information systems months and networks are provided for Hometown: Charleston, S.C. the transmission of official gov- Hobbies: Reading, watching movies ernment communications. They Goals: Earn a bachelor’s degree in are subject to telecommunica- business Favorite thing about Tyndall AFB: tions monitoring at all times in The beaches accordance with DoD Directive Favorite movie: “What’s Love Got To 4640.6 and Air Force Instruction Do With It” 33-219. Use of these telecom- Favorite book: “The Bluest Eyes,” by munications system devices Toni Morrison 1st Lt. Amanda Ferrell constitutes consent by the user Proudest moment in the military: Re- to monitoring. Airman Doctor receives the Checkertail Salute War- ceiving this award rior of the Week award from Brig. Gen. (S) Tod Wolters, For more information, con- The Checkertail Salute is a 325th Fighter Wing 325th Fighter Wing commander. commander program designed to recognize tact the 325th Communications Airman Doctor serves 200,000 meals regularly throughout Tyndall’s Warrior of the Week. Supervisors can Squadron at 283-4519. nominate individuals via their squadron and the year at Tyndall’s dining facility. When cadets were train- group commanders. Award recipients receive a ing here, she served 70,000 more. She has been on numerous certificate, letter from the commander and a one- deployments including Iraq, Spain and Mississippi. day pass. The Gulf Defender is published for people like Airman Jayne Duda 325th Aeromedical- Dental Squadron public health apprentice. Tech. Sgt. Michael Patterson Duty title: Fire contingency training in- structor Time on Station: Two years Hometown: Paducah, Ky. Hobbies: Water sports, golf, bowling Favorite book: Any Tom Clancy book Favorite movie: Any Indiana Jones movie Favorite thing about Tyndall: I en- joy seeing the immediate results of the training we provide – I truly believe I work with the “best of the best.” Proudest moment in the military: Completing my associate’s degree and Isaac Gibson Sergeant Patterson receives the Associate Spot- competing in the national Fire Fighter light award from Maj. Ann Birchard, 823rd RED Combat Challenge HORSE Squadron/Detachment 1 commander. The Associate Spotlight is a 325th Fighter Wing commander program designed to rec- Sergeant Patterson provides training to more than 700 ognize a Warrior from one of Tyndall’s tenant firefighters at the Silver Flag Exercise Training Site. He au- units. Supervisors can nominate individuals via thored a new pit fire lesson plan for his unit. He also helps their squadron and group commanders. Award recipients receive a certificate from the wing the community through Habitat for Humanity and Relay commander and other items presented by their for Life. unit. Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page 11 TTrainingraining SSpotpotlighlightt Training Spotlight Eagle students begin to slip surly bounds 1st Lt. Amanda Ferrell 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs (Editor’s note:This is the fifth of a five- part series covering the F-15 Eagle train- ing B-course students recieve here.) It all pays off. After almost two years of Air Force pilot training and preparation through academics, flight physicals, the altitude chamber, life support training, and simulators, F-15 Eagle B-course stu- dents here are ready to take the mighty Eagle airborne. Students from Class 06 in the 2nd

Fighter Squadron venture into local air 1st Lt. Amanda Ferrell space this month as they fly their first Airman 1st Class Jesus Ortiz, 2nd Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew training sorties in the Eagle. chief, right, assists Lieutenant Bursi as the pilot straps into the “The two main things I like to see out cockpit during one of his initial F-15 sorties here. What is your first im- of my students on these first flights are pression of becoming an preparedness and the ability to deal with Crew chiefs from the 2nd Aircraft able to successfully fly a superior air- Airman who has recently adversity,” said Capt. Mike Boomsma, Maintenance Unit assist pilots in secur- to-air fighter aircraft. moved to his first Air 2nd FS instructor pilot. “I want them to ing their harnesses once they’re in the “The biggest challenge most students Force base? show up to the brief with a good idea of cockpit. Crew chiefs and maintainers have during the transition phase is dealing what’s going to happen on the sortie.” also monitor all systems during start-up with adversity,” said Captain Boomsma. “It was actually a better And when something unexpected and work to troubleshoot electrical and “Students receive excellent training in transition than I expected.” happens or a mistake is made, the stu- mechanical issues when necessary. the sim prior to their first flight, and arrive dents need to be able to get through it When the cockpit closes and the jet to the flightline well prepared.” Airman 1st Class and press on without letting it affect is launched, students take full control What the simulator cannot replicate Dennis Murphy the rest of the flight, he said. of the aircraft and taxi to the runway is the actual noise, weather and abnor- First Term Airman Center student The lesson begins with a pre-mission for takeoff. malities students experience on their brief. Then students don life support “The maneuvers and training (dur- first flight, he said. gear and receive a weather and flight ing the first sorties) focus on basic “It could be anything from a nui- safety brief at the operations desk. aircraft handling and landings,” said sance light to something signaling a On the flightline, students review 1st Lt. Charles Bursi, 2nd FS B-course no-kidding emergency, but because the a maintenance log and conduct a student. students have no past experience to rely “walk-around” inspection to check the The students’ first rides can be on, they can sometimes get flustered general safety and configuration of the stressful, but the preparation and when the unexpected occurs,” said jet before climbing into the cockpit and knowledge they gain through rigorous Captain Boomsma. starting the engines. training offers a huge reward – being • See PILOT Page 21

Pressure’s on Airman 1st Class Scott Ledi- en, 372nd Training Squadron/ Detachment 4 mission ready airman, checks the pressure on the front tire of an F-15. He and three other students grad- uate today. After training to To learn about becoming a become an Eagle crew chief, member of the he will be stationed at Langley Tyndall Honor Guard, AFB, Va. call 283-4405. Chrissy Cuttita Page 12 Gulf Defender Feature Gulf Defender Page 13 Seeing Green Bringing Alternative Energy Home, to warfighters 1st Lt. William Powell the light bulbs changed, the service has turned to deployed shelters. 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs high-tech forms of energy to save money. Until recently, The skyrocketing cost of oil and natural gas has For the past few years, researchers at the Air solar power was been a hot issue lately all across America, and Force Research Laboratory’s Deployed Base cost prohibitive, the Air Force, like many Americans, is constantly Systems Branch at Tyndall AFB have been devel- but advancements looking for ways to save money by reducing en- oping hydrogen fuel cell reformers that convert in technology have ergy and fuel consumption. JP-8 jet fuel into hydrogen to power generators lowered develop- The Air Force began its energy conservation for deployed bases. ment costs. program more than 20 years ago by turning down “Current generators are so big that most of “The solar pan- thermostats, using energy-efficient lighting and our cargo aircraft can only haul one at a time,” els will generate installing better insulation. But years later, after said Reza Salavani, AFRL energy research group some of the power all the thermostats have been turned down and all project manager. for the load in the His team’s goal is to slash the generator’s size shelter, which re- in half or more to allow more than one genera- duces the demand tor to be transported at once, which will signifi- for the diesel gen- Robbie Thomas, a WMBB-TV News Reporter, interviews Reza Salavani, cantly reduce the amount of necessary sorties to erators and the air energy research group project manager, about the hydrogen fuel cell re- establish a base in a deployed location. conditioning units former. But successful development of the fuel cell because the solar generators will have a far greater impact than just panels are absorbing the sunlight and converting but require less maintenance and replacement saving jet fuel during transportation. The result it to electrical energy,” said Miriam Keith, AFRL cost. is a lighter, cleaner and cheaper energy source. electrical engineer. “With the technology we’re “In a salt-corrosive environment like we have “A typical internal combustion generator only developing, we’re looking at reducing the cost at Tyndall and the Panama City area, the coils produces about 30-35 percent energy from the per watt around 80 percent. That’s a lot less cost and equipment of a normal air conditioning unit fuel, which means about 65 percent of the fuel is per watt than current technology.” corrode quickly and replacement is required fre- lost as heat,” said Mr. Salavani. “Hydrogen fuel quently, normally cells are 30 to 40 percent more efficient, which seven to 10 years,” AFRL researchers are developing smaller, more means less fuel is required to provide the same he said. “A geother- “Hydrogen fuel cells are 30 to 40 percent more efficient, which compact generators that use alternative fuel amount of power. If you start reducing like that, mal system could sources. Richard Trotta, an AFRL research me- imagine the savings in fuel costs.” means less fuel is required to provide the same amount of power. last up to 25 years chanical engineer, studies the efficiency of such Hydrogen also burns cleaner because the by- If you start reducing like that, imagine the savings in fuel costs.” and possibly lon- generators by building sub-scale prototypes. product of hydrogen ger.” energy is heat and Reza Salavani But Tyndall isn’t Energy research group project manager water, not carbon the only Air Force monoxide and car- Base using alterna- bon dioxide. tive power. More And the Air Force While the AFRL engineers and scientists are de- than 3,500 geothermal heat pump units are in is serious about pro- veloping alternative power sources for deployed place Air Force-wide. Dyess AFB, Texas, and tecting the environ- use, Airmen at the 325th Fighter Wing have been Fairchild AFB, Wash., receive 100 percent of ment. It is now the using alternative power for years, probably with- their power from wind or other renewable pow- largest purchaser of out even knowing it. er sources provided by local utility companies. renewable power in Beginning as early as 1997, five different facil- Wind farms are being considered at other bases, the federal govern- ities and 75 housing units on base were provided as well, according to an Air Force Print News re- ment, accounting with geothermal heat pump units, also known as lease. for 41 percent of all ground-source heat pumps. The need for the alternative power sources is green power pur- According to Gil Walker, Tyndall energy and real. Although the Air Force continues to con- chases by the federal utilities manager, heat pumps use the ground as sume less energy each year, the costs continue to government. a source of energy. During the summer months, rise. This fiscal year the Air Force is expected The AFRL re- the building is cooled by transferring the heat to to surpass $1 billion in energy costs, an increase searchers here are the ground through a system of coils and wells, of nearly $200 million from fiscal year 2004, ac- also developing and during the winter months, heat is removed cording to Gary Hein, Air Force facility energy more flexible, light- from the ground and transferred to the building. team manager. weight and efficient “Because the ground temperature is relatively However, renewable energy is the future, “be- Photos by 1st Lt. Amanda Ferrell Richard Trotta observes the settings of a generator that reforms jet fuel into a solar power panels, constant, the energy recovered is endless,” said cause this is revolutionary technology,” said Mr. Miriam Keith, an electrical engineer and the lead researcher on solar energy here, is developing flex- hydrogen-rich product. The hydrogen product is fed into a fuel cell to create another green pow- Mr. Walker. Salavani. “Overall, alternative energy is a huge ible solar panels that will supply energy to tents used at deployed locations. The panels are lighter electricity. er, to integrate into Ground-source heat pumps cost more initially, savings for the Air Force and the warfighters.” and cleaner than diesel generators, which are expensive and difficult to transport. Page 14 Gulf Defender Gulf Guide Aug. 18, 2006 Briefs

Remembrance reunion event Air Forces Northern and the Con- tinental U.S. NORAD Region 9-11 Remembrance Reunion is scheduled for Sept.11. Ceremonies will start with a wreath laying ceremony at 10:30 a.m. at Flag Park. Lunch will follow at the Officers’ Club. The event will honor those who served Sept. 11, 2001, and also recog- nize servicemembers who continue to defend the nation through Operation Noble Eagle. For more information, visit www.1staf.tyndall.af.mil/911/index.htm or call 283-8659.

RAO here may close soon The Retirees Activities office may close soon unless more people vol- unteer to keep it running. The RAO provides a source of information for the retiree community about pay and Chrissy Cuttita entitlements, vehicle registration, identification cards and more. Glowin’ good times Office hours are from 9 a.m. Sean Frey enters his name into the score board at Tyndall’s Raptor Lanes. This weekend is the to noon Tuesday, Wednesday and last weekend to register for the youth winter bowling league. There are three age groups; Pee Thursday. Volunteers can work as Wees are 3-6 years old, Shooting Stars are 7-11 years old and Juniors and Seniors are 12-21 many or as few hours per week as years old. For more information, call Raptor Lanes at 283-2380. they desire. For more information or The Airman and Family Readiness to volunteer call 283-2737 or e-mail Center will offer a Basic Home [email protected]. fer a Basic Home Buying class from 11 10:30 a.m. Monday at the Officers’ Buying class Monday, 28 August from a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Aug. 28 in Bldg. 743 Club. Attendees will learn about the 1100-1230 in bldg 743 (across from Marriage class (across from the post office.) This class Tyndall and Panama City communities. the post office). This class will be “Seven Habits for Highly Effective will be taught by a local mortgage edu- This event is for OSC members and taught by a local mortgage education Marriages,” is a brown bag lunch-time cation professional and include infor- those who would like to become mem- Catholic services professional and include information mation on how to shop for mortgages, bers. If you have any questions, please on; how to shop for mortgages, class that discusses the core concepts Daily Mass, 11:30 a.m. how to determine cost and debt needed to build a strong, solid founda- how to determine cost and debt ratios, contact Kate Bobb at 286-5915. Monday–Friday, ratios, insurance and warranty, tion for marriage. Classes are held at insurance and warranty, pre-qualifying Anyone interested in becoming a Chapel Two pre-qualifying for a mortgage, real the Family Support Center. For infor- for a mortgage, real estate language and new OSC member, should contact Reconciliation, before Saturday estate language and much more. mation or to make reservations, call much more. Class size will be limited Leslie Schultz at 286-6055 or e-mail Mass or by appointment Class size will be limited to the first 283-4204. to the first 30 participants who call to at [email protected]. Saturday Mass, 5 p.m., 30 participants who call to reserve reserve a seat. To make a reservation, Chapel Two a seat. Please call the Airman and Spouse employment assistance call the FSC at 283-4204. Towel service to end Sunday Mass, 9:30 a.m., Family Readiness Center at 283- The Family Support Center mili- Air Force fitness centers will discon- Chapel Two 4204 to schedule yourself for this tary family employment specialist Commissary ‘Dollar Days’ tinue towel service Oct. 1. Tyndall’s Religious Education, 11 a.m., event. is available from 8:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. “Dollar Days” will continue until fitness center will no longer issue Bldg. 1476 Wednesday at the Tyndall commissary. towels then. TELECOMMUNICATIONS every Tuesday and Wednesday at the Protestant services MONITORING: DOD-owned FSC. They assist military spouses Hundreds of items throughout the store Traditional worship service, or leased telephone/telephone with job placement and referrals for will feature dollar pricing. Customers Club membership drive 9:30 a.m., Chapel One systems, facsimile machines, data positions in the Panama City area, should look for the “Extra Savings” The annual Air Force Clubs’ mem- Contemporary worship modems, cellular telephones, and and register spouses in the work signs throughout the store to find the bership drive starts Sept. 1 and will service, 11 a.m., Chapel Two automated information systems force employment system. For more best deals. For more information, call end Nov. 31. Wednesday Fellowship, and networks are provided for the information or to make an appoint- 283-4285. Another club member benefit is the 5 p.m., Chapel Two transmission of official government Military Free Cash Rewards Program. ment, call 283-4204. (For more information on other communications and are subject to To sign up for membership stop by the Officers’ Spouses Club updates services in the local area, call the telecommunications monitoring at The Tyndall Officers’ Spouses Club Officers’ or Enlisted Club or call them at all times in accordance with DOD Home buying class Chaplain’s office at 283-2925.) Directive 4640.6 and AFI 33-219. The Family Support Center will of- is holding a special activity coffee at 283-4357 or 283-4146, respectively. Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page 15

Intramural Sports Standings Golf Team Points Team Points 372 TRS 74.5 SFS 42.5 AFNORTH 70.5 MOS 1 38.5 CES 68,5 SVS 38.5 AFCESA 65.5 OSS 38 MXS 1 62.5 MDG 34 COMM 1 62.5 601 2 28 MSS 56 ACS 26 RHS 52 CONS 13.5 53 WEG 49 MXS 2 8.5 83 FWS 44 COMM 2 3 TEST 43.5 Bowling Team W L CS 1 W L 28 Test 96 56 83rd FWS 2 76 76 325 MXS 94 58 AFNORTH 2 76 76 Phase 1 94 58 Phase 2 74 78 325 AMXS 4 93 59 CONS 73 79 RED HORSE 90 62 ACS 1 72 80 AFCESA 2 90 62 SFS 70 82 AFCESA 1 90 62 AFNORTH 3 67 85 AMMO 88 64 AMXS 2 66 86 AMXS 1 88 64 83rd FWS 1 66 86 MSS 85 67 MDG 62 90 CES 84 68 AMXS 43 61 91 DS2 84 68 SVS 58 94 CS 2 82 70 MOS 58 94 ACS 2 80 72 AFNORTH 1 56 96 372nd TRS 78 74 Bye 52

Team High Game Scratch AMXS 1 978 Team High Series Scratch AMXS 1 2816 Team High Game Handicap RED HORSE 1127 Team High Series Handicap 28th TES 3221 High Male Game Scratch Jim Garred 269 Chrissy Cuttita High Male Series Scratch Jim Garred 696 High Male Game Handicap Sparky Sparks 283 Getting their kicks High Male Series Handicap Sparky Sparks 731 McKinlie Rodenbeck, Kieran McMullin, Grady DeSaussure, and Sarah Fernandez High Female Game Scratch Rachel Petri-Rose 203 High Female Series Scratch Rachel Petri-Rose 542 warm up during a Shito-Ryu Karate class at the Youth Center Tuesday. Youth can High Female Game Handicap Lisa Rushing 267 sign up for this course offered from 5-6 p.m. Tuesdays and Thursdays. For informa- High Female Series Handicap Lisa Rushing 715 tion on how to register, call the Youth Center at 283-4366. AF marathon looks for relay teams James Baker same great benefits,” said Rachel have signed up for the individual 88th Air Base Wing Public Affairs Claridy, U.S. Air Force Marathon 26.2 mile race, 1,016 for the half WRIGHT-PATTERSON AIR coordinator. “It is truly a team marathon, 312 for the 5k, 142 FORCE BASE, Ohio (AFPN) effort.” teams for the relay and five for -- The 10th annual U.S. Air Force The four stages are divided the wheelchair race. Marathon on Sept. 16 offers the op- into intervals of five miles, seven Registered participants are tion of running on relay teams. miles, 7.5 miles and 6.7 miles to roughly double from what the The four-member teams have finish the race. numbers were last year, Claridy each person running a specific Categories of team competition said. leg of the marathon. The team’s for the relay include coed (with Anyone interested in reg- total elapsed time will determine at least one team member from istering for the 2006 U.S. Air the winner. each sex); men’s open; women’s Force Marathon may sign up If a relay team has less than four open; masters (all members must at www.usafmarathon.com. members on race day, one or more be at least 40 years old on race Sept. 8 is the deadline to register runners must run consecutive legs. day); ROTC; and military (all online. Runners must also choose to either members must be on active-duty, Registration may also be done run the relay or the marathon, but Reserve or National Guard status at the Sports and Fitness Exposi- they can not run both. in the United States or foreign tion Sept. 14 and 15 at the Ervin “You don’t have to run as much military.) J. Nutter Center near Wright State in the relay, but you still get the To date, 1,152 individuals University in Fairborn, Ohio. Page 16 Gulf Defender Aug. 18, 2006 Women’s health clinic designs care for patients Senior Airman Sarah McDowell gynecological examinations, general The incorporation of Colo- 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs gynecology, postpartum care, family poscope, along with Thin (Editor’s note: This is the first story planning, contraceptive counseling and Prep testing, as opposed to in the three-part feature series high- transitional obstetrical care. the older version pap test, lighting the 325th Medical Group’s One new program at the clinic is has allowed the clinic to track women’s health clinic, flight medicine, pregnancy testing management. This more than 1,000 diagnostic and family practice.) allows the women’s health clinic and procedures to detect cervi- The 325th Medical Operations the pediatric clinic to capture well baby cal cancer in its early stages. Squadron Women’s Health Clinic aims exams and postpartum follow-ups after The improved technology has to foster an environment for women’s delivery, which is essential care for helped extend lives and pre- gynecological and some obstetrical mothers and their babies. vent prolonged suffering. services. The clinic has also streamlined “This technology also al- Since the clinic’s inception five years the Contraceptive Injection Program lows us to follow our popu- ago, its members have maintained re- (Depro-Provera) ensuring more ef- lation within the facility and lationships with patients and upgraded ficient and quality care. not have to refer them down- the clinic’s systems and technologies to Another service in the clinic is fol- town,” Ms. Moore said. make visits pleasant and efficient. The low-up for patients with abnormal pap Additionally, to make sure staff includes a nurse practitioner who tests. The WHC has a hi-tech medical all of the patients’ needs are sees about 60 patients a day. device called a Colposcope, which uses met, the clinic has worked to Senior Airman Sarah McDowell “Women’s health is a specialty on a camera to search for cervical cancer. improve patient access. its own,” said Andrea Moore, wom- “Right now there is research going “We have reservists as- Andrea Moore takes the blood pressure of en’s health clinic nurse practitioner. on about the human papillomavirus and sisting us, and leadership is Cynthia Johnson, WHC nurse. “Women need to know that this clinic how it can cause cervical cancer and working to bring in a second-full time “I believe that women need to have a is a place they can come to have some abnormal cervical cells,” Ms Moore provider for Women’s Health, but in place especially for them to discuss their understanding of their concerns.” said. “To combat this, the clinic will interim there may be some wait times needs and concerns, and we provide The mission of the clinic is to be offering a vaccination that has been for annual exams,” said Ms. Moore. that for them on a daily basis,” said Ms. provide gynecological services to all proven to prevent cervical cancer from The effort to limit this time is just an- Moore We want them to be comfortable female patients from adolescent to certain types of HPV by 100 percent in other aspect of the environment the WHC with coming to see us and feel they have geriatric. The clinic routinely conducts the near future.” wants to create for its customers. been taken care of when they leave.” Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page 17

Can you beat the Pig- skin Prognosticator? The National Football League is soon beginning its 2006 season. Do you think you can outsmart the Pig-Prog by picking each week’s winners? Watch for the Pig-Prog challenge coming soon only in the Gulf Defender. Maybe you’ll get a chance to lose to the great- est football forecaster of them all.

Lisa Norman Meet and greet Charlene Wolters says hello to Luke Barber, son of Capt. Donna and Tech. Sgt. Robert Barber, at the Child Development Center. Mrs. Wolters and other military spouses toured base facilities to get better acquainted with Tyndall’s agencies and services.

There are 105 days left in the season. Page 18 Gulf Defender Aug. 18, 2006 Golden Bolt Award

Chrissy Cuttita Senior Airman Joshua Joslin, 95th Aircraft Maintenance Unit avionics techni- cian, inventories the tool cart after launching an aircraft. Airman Joslin won the Golden Bolt Award in June. He found the Golden Bolt on the runway, near a metal tie down. Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page 19

• From OPSEC Page 1 a relationship with the Air- other Web sites).” allow users to create their own man. The “friendship” may The bottom line is that Air- profile pages with lists of their develop to a point where the men need to be aware that AETC clarifies NSPS facts The Air Force announced it will convert approximately favorite musicians, books and perpetrator asks for more some individuals will use an 37,000 non-bargaining unit employees to the human resources movies, photos of themselves information about the Air online service like MySpace portion of the National Security Personnel System from October and friends. This information Force member’s specific du- for criminal or intelligence through January 2007. Civilians from organizations across the can act as a database that crimi- ties and knowledge of other gathering endeavors. Air Force, including overseas locations, are included in this nals as well as intelligence or secure topics (i.e. weapons From an OPSEC perspec- group. terrorist organizations can uti- systems that Airmen may tive, Air Force members should Splitting implementation into two time frames will help lize to “datamine” for potential have access to.) never include any photographs ensure managers and employees are able to receive training targets. Airmen disclosing OPSEC or information that may pro- on the new pay and personnel rules. For instance, if a perpetra- information are subject to vide insight to Air Force tac- The first group within AETC, dubbed Spiral 1.2B (indicating tor is looking for an Air Force the U.S. Code of Military tics, techniques, procedures or the second pay period in the conversion period), converts Oct. 15 member who works in a par- Justice. capabilities. Members should and includes non-bargaining unit, GS employees at Columbus, ticular specialty in order to “At a minimum, disclosure not describe current or im- Goodfellow, Lackland and Laughlin AFBs. The second group, gather information regarding of OPSEC information would pending deployments,aircraft known as Spiral 1.2H, converts Jan. 21 and includes non-bar- a program or aircraft, he can most likely be an offense that capabilities or installation gaining unit, GS positions at Altus, Keesler, Little Rock, Luke, search the Web service to iden- violates Article 92 of the UCMJ facilities. Maxwell, Randolph, Sheppard, Tyndall and Vance AFBs. tify a specific person based on for dereliction of duty,” said Additionally the use of lan- Conversion will be based on permanent position of record that individual’s profile. The Capt. Rosemary Gilliam, 325th guage construed as racially or without a loss of pay. perpetrator can then use the FW Assistant Staff Judge Ad- sexually disparaging is unac- Generally eligible employees convert to NSPS along with their information in the Airman’s vocate. ceptable and inappropriate for servicing installation. However, due to some unique situations, profile to develop a plan to “There are some other arti- Air Force members, whether such as smaller associate and tenant organizations; there may be build rapport. cles of the UCMJ that could po- online or in person. some exceptions to this approach. If you have any questions as to If the Air Force member’s tentially be violated,” she said. Airman who observe when your organization will transition into NSPS, please contact profile said “enjoys fishing “However, this would depend questionable information Tyndall’s civilian personnel flight at 283-3203. as a hobby,” the perpetrator- on the facts and circumstances online should notify Tyn- For a listing of DOD activities that will convert to NSPS in will also assume interest in surrounding the disclosure of dall OSI at 283-3261 or Spiral 1.2, check www.cpms.osd.mil/docs/Spiral1.2pdf. fishing in order to develop information on MySpace (and Capt. Garrett at 283-4664. (Courtesy of AETC)

Page 20 Gulf Defender Aug. 18, 2006 Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page 21

• From EPR Page 6 are limited and used in the proper context,” said General Brady, who personally discussed the issue with major command vice commanders and com- mand chief master sergeants. If a stratification statement is used, it will be defined in quantitative terms, such as “No. 1 of 178 master sergeants in the wing.” Statements based on percentage or “best in career field” are no longer allowed. “Stratification, if used properly, must rank the indi- vidual among their peers in their flight, not a general group or at the wing level,” said Sergeant Kennedy. The rankings must be specific – they have to mean something to the review board, he said. This policy also states that evaluators will stratify master sergeants and senior master sergeants separately and should only consider the number assigned within their rating scope. This policy will be included in the revision to Air Force Instruction 36-2406, Officer and Enlisted Evaluation Systems. The evaluations and decorations flight here em- phasizes the importance of thoroughly reviewing all EPRs before they are submitted. “Common mistakes on EPRs are incorrectly stat- ing the rater or ratee’s duty title, the feedback date is not within the permitted time frame, and having discrepancies in the ‘concur, non-concur’ section,” said Sergeant Kennedy. “It’s the rater and senior rater’s responsibility to ensure EPR forms are correctly filled out and that the new stratification changes are adhered to,” said Sergeant Kennedy. (Contributed by 325th Fighter Wing Public Affairs)

• From PILOT Page 11 The biggest difference between the F-15 simulator and the jet is the Florida sun, said Lieutenant Bursi. Students must remain focused in a cockpit that can reach temperatures of more than 100 degrees in summer months. Instructors sit in the back seat of D-model F-15s during the initial sorties flown by students. And because the instructor is literally looking over the student’s shoulder, Captain Boomsma said many learning points can be talked about “real time” dur- ing the mission. “For the debrief, I usually save the academic dis- cussions for why we do things a certain way. I also offer up alternate techniques if the student is having trouble with any parts of the sortie,” he said. The stress and pressure students experience during their initial training sorties in the F-15 are outweighed by the pride and excitement they feel as they work to become members of the Eagle community. “I chose to fly the F-15 because I like the air-to- air mission, and the C-model is the best at it,” said Lieutenant Bursi. “What I find to be the rewarding part of the day is to see these guys fired up to have their first ride in the mighty Eagle,” said Captain Boomsma. Page 22 Gulf Defender Aug. 18, 2006 Aug. 18, 2006 Gulf Defender Page 23 Page 24 Gulf Defender Aug. 18, 2006