FREE

an edition of ALASKAthe POST The Interior Military News Connection Vol. 10, No. 38 Fort Wainwright, Alaska October 4, 2019 USARAK CG town hall U.S. Army Alaska and Fort Wainwright Soldiers and Families are invited to join Maj. Gen. Pe- ter Andrysiak, USARAK commanding general and U.S. Army Garrison Alas- ka leadership, to discuss quality of life im- provements and initiatives as part of a town hall at the Fort Wainwright Physical Fitness Center, Friday, Oct. 4, at 9 a.m. The commander and other Fort Wain- wright leaders will be on hand to engage and listen to your feedback, comments and perspectives. If you can’t attend in person, you can still tune in and engage with the town hall from a distance. The town hall will be livestreamed Exposing the Northern Lights through Fort Wainwright’s Facebook page. Staff Report First, having a tripod is a present itself, and tripods U.S. Army Garrison Alaska, must; but even if you don’t take up room. Fort Wainwright Public Affairs have one don’t let that stop It is best if the camera can U.S. Army you. Grab a bag of dried be manually set. The ability The aurora borealis, or beans or rice - that’s right, a to set shutter speeds, aper- northern lights, are a com- bag of dry beans or rice placed ture settings, focusing and Alaska gives mon sight in Alaska, at least inside in an extra stocking the ISO settings provides the for a few of those who may cap or large tube sock will best results for capturing Marine Corps a lift venture out in the hours of work great as a camera stabi- low-light scenes. Some of the darkness and cold with the lizer. Setting the bag on any newer automatic cameras Christina McCann luck of timing on their side. stable surface, such as a car have programmed low-light Along with the joy of seeing hood, lawn chair or mailbox, settings, which could allow Soldiers of the 109th Transportation one, and bitten by the shut- anything that won’t move or for a successful aurora photo. Company, 17th Combat Support Sustainment terbug, frequently comes the sway during an exposure, will It wouldn’t hurt to give it a Battalion, U.S. Army Alaska, assisted the desire to capture an image to work. Gently seat the camera try and experiment with a Navy and Marine Corps during the Arc- share that experience through on the bag, pressing down camera’s automatic shooting tic Expeditionary Capabilities Exercise in photography. until it is completely support- programs. Seward Sept. 19. Here are a few photography ed by the bag while you are When shooting the aurora, The joint exercise saw Sailors and Marines tips that may help get you still able to view through the find an area to shoot from working side-by-side as they tested joint within the proverbial, celes- eye piece. It works well in a that is out of the direct light expeditionary force logistical transfer capa- tial ball park. crunch. Consider keeping a from street lights, passing bilities in the subarctic environment. A motionless camera, a bag of beans or rice in your cars or building lights. The Soldiers moved the equipment from long exposure and a great vehicle just in case. You never aurora are all you need. know when a great shot will See LIGHTS on page 4 See JBER on page 3

U.S. Army Pacific bids aloha to Fort Greely farewell Commanding General Robert Brown Russell Shimooka

What started out as a basketball recruit- ing trip to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point, turned into a 38-year Army career for Gen. Robert B. Brown. On historic Palm Circle, Soldiers and Army Civilians bid farewell to Brown on Sept. 27, who ends his assignment as Philip S. Davidson (left), commander of U.S. In- commanding general do-Pacific Command, and Gen. Robert B. Brown of U.S. Army Pacific. (right), outgoing commanding general of U.S. Army Brown will officially Pacific, salute during a farewell ceremony, Sept. 27, retire from service in a 2019 at historic Palm Circle on Fort Shafter, Hawaii. ceremony next month During the event, friends, Family and fellow Soldiers on the U.S. mainland. bid Brown farewell and good luck on his future en- Gen. Brown has deavors. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Justin Silvers) Top, U.S. Army Garrison Alaska, Fort Greely bid a fond farewell to Com- served in Army units mand Sgt. Maj. Chris Magee and his wife Kelly (center), during a change of at all levels, with responsibility ceremony Oct. 2 at the Aurora Community Activities Center. several assignments in Iraqi Freedom. less commitment and USAG Alaska, Fort Greely commander, Lt. Col. Joel Johnson (left), and the region to include Brown took com- service. He also spoke USAG Alaska, Fort Greely deputy to the garrison commander, Craig Cugini the 25th Infantry mand of U.S. Army Pa- of tense times two years (right), present the Magee family with a departure gift from Team Greely. Division, I Corps and cific on April 30, 2016, ago when North Korea The Magee family is departing for a new assignment in Japan. Thank you U.S. Indo-Pacific Com- and during today’s ratcheted its provoca- for a job well done, and best wishes. (Photo by Chris Maestas, USAG Alas- mand. He’s also had ceremony he thanked tive behavior. Brown ka, Fort Greely Public Affairs) two combat tours in commanders, staff, and support of Operation Soldiers for their tire- See BROWN on page 4

WEEKEND WEATHER IN BRIEF Friday Saturday Sunday The Great Pumpkin Festival Pumpkin carving and decorating, arts & crafts, games Halloween laser tag Snow and rain likely. Snow and snow Chance of snow. High Oct. 12, 2-6 p.m. at Last Frontier Community Activity Center Areas of fog. High near showers likely. near 36. Low around 24. $10 (for one pumpkin, one game of laser tag) 42. Low around 29. High 38. Low 26. Registration required: 907-353-7755 2 NEWS October 4, 2019 Nutrition Corner: Amazing antioxidants Did you know that there Lutein – kale and other stores now that it is win- it can be used in a variety of are special compounds in dark leafy greens ter. They’re big, red and preparations, as a compli- INGREDIENTS: certain foods called anti- Lycopene – tomatoes and characterized by a leathery mentary flavor to entrees, 3 cups julienne-cut peeled oxidants that can prevent tomato products skin that protects hundreds a topping for desserts and jicama (about one medium) oxidization of cells caused Selenium – Brazil nuts, of tiny, succulent, crimson salads, or just simply as it 1/2 cup pomegranate arils by free radicals in the body, many types of seafood and seeds inside. Although pome- is, an enjoyable and healthy 1/3 cup vertically sliced red thereby significantly decreas- organ meats granates tend to be a bit pric- piece of fresh fruit. onion ing the risk of cell damage Ascorbic Acid – citrus ey, you might be able to snag 1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro and cancer? fruits a good deal while they’re in 1/4 cup fresh lime juice These amazing substanc- Alpha-tocopherol – wheat season. Even if not, the extra Recipe Spotlight: 2 tablespoons olive oil es can be found in many germ, nuts and seeds cost is probably worth it for 1 tablespoon agave nectar foods, especially fruits and this super food. In addition Jicama-Pomegranate 1/4 teaspoon salt vegetables. Leading research For more information to being a great source of Salad 1/8 teaspoon ground red shows that individuals who about antioxidants and healthy fiber, potassium and pepper consume more of these an- health implications check out iron, the seeds of this deli- We love the crunch tioxidant-rich foods are less this article by the Harvard cious fruit are packed with Jicama-Pomegranate Sal- PREPARATION likely to experience disease School of Public Health: antioxidants. ad delivers with each bite. Combine jicama, pome- throughout life. The follow- http://www.hsph.harvard. The pomegranate is Jicama-Pomegranate Salad granate arils, onion and ing list includes a few exam- edu/nutritionsource/antioxi- thought to have originated in also packs vitamins, minerals cilantro in a large bowl. ples of antioxidants, along dants/ Persia, and is referenced in and antioxidants with every Combine lime juice, olive oil, with common food items that many ancient texts as being serving. agave nectar, salt and ground contain them: an important part of the YIELD: Serves six red pepper in a bowl, stirring 2 Featured Food: culinary palate of the past. (serving size: /3 cup). Each with a whisk. Add juice mix- Beta-carotene – carrots Pomegranates! You’ve Today, this fruit continues to serving provides 144 calo- ture to jicama mixture; toss and cantaloupe probably seen these fruits enjoy great popularity, and ries, 4.7g of fat and 107mg gently to coat. more often in the grocery sodium. Public health officials offer easy steps to fight the flu Kirk Frady the number of hospital elbow, not your hand, them until they can go Regional Health intensive care unit when you sneeze or home. Command Europe admissions and the du- cough,” LeFrancis ration of hospital stay said. “That keeps Preventing Flu at As the flu season for patients who do get the germs off of your Work rapidly approaches, hospitalized.” hands.” • Find out about there are several com- “The study also 4. Clean your hands. your employer’s plans mon sense tips to help found that unvacci- Washing your hands if an outbreak of flu or keep you and your nated adults with the often will help protect another illness occurs loved ones healthy this flu who were admitted you from germs. If and whether flu vac- winter season. to the hospital were soap and water are not cinations are offered Flu vaccinations two to five times more available, use an alco- on-site. are an annual require- likely to die than hol-based hand rub. • Routinely clean ment for Soldiers, someone who had been 5. Avoid touching frequently touched and the Army medical vaccinated,” added your eyes, nose or objects and surfaces, community offers the LeFrancis. mouth. including doorknobs, vaccine to Soldiers, as Cpl. Audi Edsell, a combat medic with Ansbach The following tips Germs are often keyboards and phones, well as their Family Health Clinic, prepares a needle at Illesheim Army Air and advice below can spread when a person to help remove germs. members, retirees and Field, Germany. Medical readiness is an important help protect yourself touches something • Make sure your Civilians here in the necessity for deployed Soldiers as part of the Army’s and others from flu that is contaminated workplace has an European theater. steadfast commitment to collective defense respon- and help stop the with germs and then adequate supply of According to the sibilities in Europe. (Photo by Cpl. Gabrielle Weaver, spread of germs. touches his or her tissues, soap, paper Centers for Disease 24th Theater Public Affairs Support Element) 1. Avoid close con- eyes, nose or mouth. towels, alcohol-based Control and Preven- tact. 6. Practice other hand rubs and dispos- tion, flu activity begins information about vac- added. “These events Avoid close con- good health habits. able wipes. to increase in October, cine availability will will begin right around tact with people who Clean and disinfect • Train others on peaking between De- be provided through- the second week in are sick. When you frequently touched how to do your job so cember and February out the community October. Dates and are sick, keep your surfaces at home, they can cover for you and diminishing by via web, social media, locations will be ad- distance from others work or school, espe- in case you or a Family May. AFN and through vertised through your to protect them from cially when someone is member gets sick and According to Col. command channels. local clinic.” getting sick too. ill. Get plenty of sleep, you have to stay home. Kerry LeFrancis, Re- “Influenza vaccine Each year the effec- 2. Stay home when be physically active, • If you begin to gional Health Com- is in the process of be- tiveness of the flu vac- you are sick. manage your stress, feel sick while at work, mand Europe Force ing shipped from De- cine varies. And while If possible, stay drink plenty of fluids go home as soon as Health Protection partment of Defense it is still too early to home from work, and eat nutritious possible. Officer, “The single logistics distribution predict how effective school and errands food. “It can be tough best way to prevent locations to military this season’s flu vac- when you are sick. for some of us to take seasonal flu is to get medical treatment cine will be in Europe, This will help prevent Preventing Flu at some time out when vaccinated each year, facilities worldwide,” the vaccination is still spreading your illness School we feel an illness but good health habits said LeFrancis. “As recommended as it to others. • Find out about coming on,” LeFrancis like covering your soon as it arrives at may make the illness 3. Cover your plans your child’s said. “But it’s im- cough and washing your clinic, it will milder and prevent mouth and nose. school, child care portant to stay home your hands often can be available during hospitalization if Cover your mouth program or college has from school or work to help stop the spread regularly scheduled the flu is contracted, and nose with a tis- if an outbreak of flu or reduce the chance of of germs and prevent appointments. according to Region- sue when coughing another illness occurs spreading something respiratory illnesses “If you are not in al Health Command or sneezing. It may and whether flu vac- potentially life threat- like the flu.” a military unit, the Europe officials. prevent those around cinations are offered ening to those people Army Medical clin- fastest way to get LeFrancis said that you from getting sick. on-site. who are at a high risk ics in Europe will kick the vaccine is to go according to a recent Flu and other serious • Make sure your for flu complications. off their flu vaccina- to a local community study, “Vaccination respiratory illnesses, child’s school, child You don’t always know tion campaigns by the event where it is being reduces the number like respiratory syn- care program or col- who those people are.” end of October, and offered,” LeFrancis of flu related deaths, cytial virus (RSV), lege routinely cleans For more informa- whooping cough and frequently touched tion on the flu vaccine severe acute respirato- objects and surfaces, or when and where ry syndrome (SARS), and that they have a you can get it, check are spread by cough, good supply of tissues, out your Army Medi- sneezing or unclean soap, paper towels, al- cine clinic’s Facebook MEDDAC Minute hands. cohol-based hand rubs page to find the latest “Maybe you’ve and disposable wipes information. Important Phone Numbers to 4 p.m. at the Education Center, heard of ‘sneeze in on-site. For more informa- Emergency: 911 building 4391. For questions, call your sleeve’ to remind • Ask how sick tion on influenza and 24 Hour Nurse Advice Line: 361-3057. you to cover your students and staff are the vaccination, visit 1-800-874-2273 Opt. 1 mouth and nose with separated from others the CDC’s website: Appointment Line: 361-4000 Women’s health event the inside of your and who will care for https://www.cdc.gov/flu Behavioral Health: 361-6059 Join our staff from Public Health Benefits Advisor: 361-5656 at Bassett Army Community Hos- Immunizations: 361-5456 pital on Oct. 24 from 10 a.m. to 2 Information Desk: 361-5172 p.m. for a health event geared to- Patient Advocate: 361-5291 wards women. Information will be Pharmacy Refills: 361-5803 provided on a wide range of health Tricare On-Line: concerns that affect women. ALASKA POST www.tricareonline.com United Health Care: Limited services The Interior Military News Connection uhcmilitarywest.com, 877-988-9378 In order to provide our benefi- EDITORIAL STAFF The ALASKA POST is authorized by Army ciaries with the highest quality of Regulation 360-1 and is published by the Fairbanks Garrison Commander Daily News-Miner, a private firm in no way connected Play therapy care, Medical Department Activity with the U.S. Army, and is under exclusive written Behavioral health offers play to - Alaska will be adding one day a contract. Contents of the ALASKA POST are not Col. Christopher Ruga necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, communicate with and help chil- month to our training calendar to the Department of the Army. The editorial content dren resolve psychosocial chal- ensure staff are up to date on all Fort Wainwright PAO of this publication is the responsibility of the U.S. Army Garrison Ft. Wainwright Public Affairs lenges. This therapy utilizes toys training requirements. Limited Office. The ALASKA POST welcomes responsible or age-appropriate tools to com- services will be available from 7:30 Grant Sattler comments from its readers and will publish letters, municate their feelings, needs and to 10 a.m. on the second and fourth articles or photos submitted at least one week Command Information/ prior to the next publication. The ALASKA POST concerns. To make an appointment, Thursdays of the month. reserves the right to edit or reject submissions. call 361-6059. All submitted material will become official Army New Media property unless otherwise indicated. To advertise JOE wants to know call (907) 459-7548 Everything advertised in this You versus the flu We want to hear from you. Brady Gross publication shall be made available for purchase, Protect yourself and your fam- The Joint Outpatient Evaluation use or patronage without regard to race, color, Community Relations/ religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, ily by getting the flu vaccination System is randomly mailed to physical handicap, political affiliation or any other during the Family Flu Vaccination non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. beneficiaries requesting input on Media Relations The Editorial office is located on Ft. Wainwright in Walk-In Clinic. All beneficiaries appointment satisfaction. Your Building 1047 #1; Mailing address is Public Affairs over the age of 6 months, as well responses will assist MEDDAC-AK Eve Baker Office, 1060 Gaffney Road, 5900, Ft. Wainwright, AK 99703. Call 353-6779 or 353-6760, or send DOD employees are eligible for the leadership to improve services and emails to usarmy.wainwright.imcom-pacific.list. vaccination. The clinic will take your overall experience. Look for Staff Writer/Editor [email protected] place Oct. 7 through 11 from 7 a.m. your envelope in the mail. The ALASKA POST – The Interior Military News Connection Daniel Nelson to 5 p.m. and Oct. 12 from 8 a.m. 3 October 4, 2019 NEWS The Chaplain’s Corner Chaplain Paul Fritts studying while friends don’t play.” What if completely by God, U.S. Army Garrison are having a good time the ticket I don’t buy what could I possibly Alaska, Fort Greely at a party. is the one that would add to my life that FOMO means that have made me rich? would make it more FOMO, or the “fear while I’m at the party, So, I yield to my sur- complete? A lottery of missing out” accord- I’m still not having a vival instinct, provide jackpot? A shiny new ing to Dictionary.com good time because I’m my credit card number Instant Pot? Genuine- is “an anxious feeling anxious about what I and purchase a chance ly resting in God’s per- you get when you feel might be missing by at winning millions, or fect love means that other people might be being at this party that shiny new wid- we have no FOMO having a good time with these friends get, in order to satisfy because “perfect love without you.” rather than with my FOMO with what drives out fear.” Although the un- different friends doing moth and rust will Second, let’s con- derlying psychology something else. eventually destroy. sider the “Of Missing of FOMO has been Some version of This is a lie that Chris- Out” of FOMO: “So around as long as FOMO nags at all tians must resist. Abraham called that humans have been of us, to a greater or First, let’s consider place The Lord Will around, our current lesser degree. Adver- the “Fear” of FOMO: Provide. And to this experience of the tisers have mastered “There is no fear day it is said, ‘On the phenomenon emerged the ability to exploit in love. But perfect mountain of the Lord needs according to the vision, and that begins in the late ’90s to our fear and anxiety love drives out fear, it will be provided’” riches of his glory in with learning to want early 2000s along of what we once called because fear has to (Genesis 22:14). Christ Jesus” (4:19). the things that please with the rise of smart “keeping up with the do with punishment. We remember the Genuinely resting in God rather than me. phone usage and social Joneses” in order The one who fears is story of God in- God’s provision means For God and Coun- media. The powerful to sell us the latest not made perfect in structing Abraham there is no “missing try! The Fort Greely combination of phones “gotta’ have” gadget. love” (1 John 4:18). In to sacrifice Isaac. out” because God will Chapel community is a and Facebook meant Because if I don’t have Scripture, the idea of At the last moment, provide. However, traditional, protestant that people, especially it, what could I be “perfect” often means Abraham saw a ram we must be careful Army chapel service young adults in their missing? And I don’t “complete” or “not in the bushes, which to avoid the trap of meeting on Sundays at late teens and twen- want to gamble on lacking” in addition he sacrificed instead. thinking God will pro- 10 a.m. with a weekly ties, could constantly missing out. to our more common God is Jehovah-Jireh, vide what I want when Communion obser- see what their friends Speaking of gam- understanding of per- meaning “The Lord I want it. vance. were doing at any bling, commercials fect as being “without Will Provide.” God provides ac- Interested? Please time, all the time. But urging me to buy a flaw.” Perfect love, As St. Paul reminds cording to God’s riches call 907-873-4397 FOMO is more perni- lottery ticket usually then, is complete and us in his letter to the and God’s glory in or “Like” our chap- cious than simply feel- take some form of lacking nothing. Philippians, “And my God’s time! The chal- el Facebook page at ing stuck in the dorm “You can’t win if you Because I am loved God will meet all your lenge is to align what www.facebook.com/ I want with God’s pro- FGAChapel. JBER: Joint exercise Continued from page 1 more efficient operations.” It wasn’t without challenges, the port north to JBER once the though, said Wilcox, a native of maritime services did their part Bossier City, Louisiana. getting it onto land. “From a safety aspect, this is Spc. Zachary Verbruggen, a unique for us because we’re not 109th TC Soldier and native of used to working at a port so close to Little Chute, Wisconsin, said it the water, so close to all this huge was his first time working with the equipment that’s utilized to move Navy. gear from ship to shore.” “Joint operations like this one Corporal Gabriel Hernandez, a are important so we can know that bulk fuels specialist with the 7th all the branches can work in cohe- Engineer Support Battalion, 1st sion with each other to accomplish Marine Logistics Group out of San a common goal,” Verbruggen said. Diego, was one of the Marines get- “I think this exercise will broaden ting the supplies from Navy ships my skill set by working with other onto dry land. branches on transporting equip- “We transfer bulk products from Spc. Zachary Verbruggen, assigned to the 109th Transportation Company, 17th ment, and learning how they do naval ships, tankers, and any type operations.” Combat Support Sustainment Battalion, U.S. Army Alaska, yells to fellow Sol- of storage facility that needs fuel diers while securing U.S. Marine Corps bulk fuel supplies and equipment from Verbruggen and his teammates transferred from one area to anoth- were transporting fuel bladders the U.S.S. Comstock (LSD-45), a Whidbey Island-class dock landing ship, on an er,” Hernandez said. M872 trailer at the port of Seward, Alaska, Sept. 19, 2019, for transport to Joint and pumps as well as intermodal “We set up our operation to get Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. The U.S. Navy is conducting an Arctic Ex- steel containers of equipment. equipment off a barge. We’re get- peditionary Capabilities Exercise to test its logistical effectiveness and joint-ser- “We do the same thing the ting fuel from any transportation vice interoperability while responding to conflict or disaster in an austere environ- Marines we worked with do; they on the water onto a small fuel site, ment with no organic assets. (Photo by Justin Connaher) transport equipment by water, we and onto any vehicles that come do it by land. There are slight dif- through in a tactical manner.” Marines. “Our Marines are very expedient ferences in how we operate, but we Rear Admiral Cedric Pringle, “We needed a place to hone in what they do. They know the ca- were working together to get the Expeditionary Strike Group Three our skills,” Pringle said. Having pabilities of our systems, and even mission done.” commander, said part of the moti- worked with Marine Corps Reserve if pieces of the puzzle are missing, Wesley Wilcox, the 109th TC first vation for the exercise was the 7.1 Col. and Alaska Sen. Dan Sullivan they know how to put them to- sergeant, said the exercise provided earthquake Nov. 30, 2018. in Washington, D.C., Navy officials gether like a Lego set to get the job valuable joint operations experi- “It really made us think about realized Alaska was the perfect done.” ence. our response,” Pringle said, noting area to practice. While the San Diego, Califor- “As a strictly line-haul organiza- that the Navy frequently pro- “We were able to cover a lot of nia-based Navy and Marine Corps tion we are extremely effective, and vides Defense Support for Civilian objectives simultaneously,” Pringle units specifically wanted to train proficient at convoy operations. If Authority, or DSCA, assistance. said. “The value of training here is in Alaska, Wilcox said the skills are we were to deploy, there is a high Although the earthquake did not unquestionable.” eminently transferable. probability that we would have to cause large-scale disruption of food For the Marines working in “I wouldn’t necessarily compart- do port operations, so my hopes are or fuel supplies, the Navy was pre- Seward, passing supplies to the mentalize this to the Arctic region, that my Soldiers will gain a better pared to respond, he said, although Army might have been unusual, because you can do this anywhere. understanding about how to not officials realized a large-scale but not problematic. These Soldiers will be able to take only interact with sister branches exercise would help ensure the ca- “Working with other branches the experience they’ve learned but also how to facilitate the in- pabilities to do so – and be a stellar is not any different than when we here, and incorporate it at any port teroperability and joint maneuver- training opportunity as well. work with each other. We’re all they have to operate at worldwide. ing to get whatever is needed from “We seldom get a chance to test working together to complete the You may have a few nuances based point A to point B,” Wilcox said. [these systems] in a challenging same mission,” Hernandez said. on the location you’re at, but over- “We have limited experience with environment,” Pringle said. “We want to build skill sets in all what’s learned here is absolute- operating at ports with maritime Pringle cited the 40- to 50-knot peacetime exercises so if and when ly transferable. Without a doubt, services. Joining in the off-load- winds and seven-foot seas on Adak we are needed, we can do it in re- this is good for every one of these ing and up-loading techniques the as an example of valuable learning al-world operations. Soldiers.” Navy uses better prepares us for experiences for the Sailors and real-world scenarios and makes for

Estate Notice Anyone having claims against or who is indebted to the estate of Sgt. Ken Chambers, of Bravo Company, 70th Brigade Engineer Battalion, may contact Capt. Maxwell Voth, Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, 2nd Battalion, 8th Field Artillery Regi- ment, Fort Wainwright, Alaska 99703, phone (719) 648-4092. 4 NEWS October 4, 2019

History Snapshot: Lights: Tips Continued from page 1 Williwaws in the Aleutians Once the camera is securely fixed atop a tripod or safely nestled on a bag of beans, try a starting exposure at 15 seconds, 5.6 f stop (aperture) and an ISO of 320. From that setting, depending on the intensity of the aurora’s glow and movement, ad- justments can be made to the speed and aperture to brighten or darken the image captured. Check the LCD screen. If the image is too dark and the aurora doesn’t show very well, try a longer exposure (shutter setting) or lower aperture number. If the image is too light or lacks vivid colors, shorten the exposure time or raise the aperture number. Lastly, if the imag- es are still too dark, the ISO number can be raised up in increments. Note that the higher the ISO number, the grainier the images may become. Every aurora is different in size, intensi- ty, movement and color. Starting out with a basic setting allows quick changes in a timely manner. The northern lights can change slowly and the camera’s settings may work for many exposures. Or the intensity of the lights may grow or dimin- ish and exposure settings may have to be changed often. Reviewing captured images in the LCD viewer will help in determining exposure During the Aleutian Campaign of World War II, one of the biggest obstacles the military had to over- changes. come was the weather. The islands were frequently shrouded in clouds and rain, making flying danger- A good practice is to have a notebook ous or impossible. They were also buffeted by williwaws, violent gusts of cold air coming down off the to jot down observances of the scene to mountains that flipped airplanes upside down, blew away supplies or ripped up runways, as shown in compare how the images turn out with the photo here. (Photo courtesy of Levi Ballard) different camera settings. This will help you better understand what to expect the next time. Also take into consideration that digital cameras save various types of infor- mation with image files. Not only time and date, but also information about apertures, Greely celebrates Hispanic shutter speeds, ISOs and other camera settings. Keep in mind that the aurora happens Heritage Month hundreds of miles above the earth, so where to direct your focus is important. Some of the best aurora shots are made with interesting foregrounds in them: cab- ins, trees, lakes and even people. It’s a hard decision to make on just where to focus in your scene. Being out with the right equipment, at the right time, and photographing the aurora is to be considered lucky. But as to not always count on luck, the University of Alaska Fairbanks Geophysical Institute’s aurora activity forecast webpage is an ex- cellent source to gauge when the possibili- ties are good for an aurora photo opportu- nity. The web page can be found at https:// www.gi.alaska.edu/monitors/aurora-fore- cast. Alaska scenery is a photographer’s paradise, even when the lights are out. Brown

U.S. Army Garrison Alaska, Fort Greely celebrated National Hispanic Heritage Month during an obser- Continued from page 1 vance at the Aurora Community Activities Center on Sep. 27. During the event, Hispanic music, dance said he was thankful for diplomatic solutions, and food were celebrated. National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed Sept. 15 to Oct. 15, recognizes but made certain of increased Soldier’s read- the contributions of Hispanic and Latino Americans to the United States and celebrate the group’s her- iness so that if necessary, he could project a itage and culture. (Photo by Chris Maestas, USAG Fort Greely Public Affairs) combat credible force. “We all had to ensure that we would never put a Soldier in harm’s way without knowing they are ready. We can look their parents in the eyes and say we did everything we could do…. it’s been an incredible honor to serve Applications being accepted with an amazing team. It’s been the honor of a lifetime,” said the general. During Brown’s tenure, U.S. Army Pa- for Gratitude Initiative cific was a model for innovation developing Janet Farris the Multi-Domain Task Force, advancing U.S. Army Garrison Alaska, Multi-Domain Operations concepts closer Fort Wainwright School Liaison to doctrine, certifying the headquarters as Officer a 4-Star joint warfighting command, and APPLY FOR promulgating the highly successful Pacific Gratitude Initiative is now GI’S FREE COLLEGE Pathways mission whereby Soldiers are now accepting applications for stu- PREP PROGRAM deployed into the region and training with dents in grades 8 to 11 for the allies and partners for longer periods of time. Adm. Philip Davidson, commander of U.S. GI College Success Academy! Gratitude Initiative (GI) is currently enrolling students from Army families into the GI College Success Academy. This proven Indo-Pacific Command, had high praise for GI provides the most com- program is provided at no cost to families. prehensive college and career his top land component commander. counseling, SAT/ACT Test WHO QUALIFIES ABOUT THE PROGRAM “I’ll will absolutely miss your expert ad- Prep and financial aid coun- vice, innovative vision and candid demeanor. STUDENTS IN 8TH GRADE THROUGH COLLEGE PREP It was our dialogue-you and I-that helped seling program, free of charge THE BEGINNING OF 12TH GRADE WHO GI provides the most comprehensive HAVE A PARENT THAT MEETS ONE OF college prep program available today. advance the Indo-Pacific strategy,” said to our Army Families. The THE FOLLOWING CRITERIA... • Access our online program anywhere Davidson, who leads the largest combatant program is delivered online, around the globe! • Degreed experts will work directly with you command spanning more than half the globe. and is backed up by a team of Active duty members of the United and your student via email, phone, or chat. States Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine • Enroll as early as the 8th grade – support “As you begin the next chapter in your life, live degreed experts who work Corps, & Coast Guard. continues until college graduation! • Our step-by-step program saves time & I know you will continue to champion the ef- directly with families via email, reduces the stress of preparing for your student’s future directly with you and your forts of our service members across the globe, A veteran who was honorably discharged student via email, phone, or chat. phone and chat. from active duty on or after 9/11/2001. This service is completely and you will continue to find ways to serve free of charge to qualifying program includes something bigger than yourself, just as you Reserve or National Guard members who have the past 38 years. Congratulations on a military and veteran families were activated for active duty service since • Customized action plan – you’ll know what 9/11/2001 & were deployed to a combat zone. to do and when to do it from the date of enrollment, • Unlimited access to your team of advisors wonderful career and promotion to civilian,” • Career counseling and major selection to said Davidson, which drew laughter from the all the way through college A combat wounded or disabled veteran ensure a successful future with a service connected injury. • College selection and admissions audience. graduation. Gratitude Initia- counseling -We’ll help your student shine! tive is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit • Test prep for the SAT®, ACT®, and PSAT® Brown, who at 6 foot-7 played basketball • Financial aid and scholarship counseling – organization whose mission is A service member killed on active duty. includes review of all financial aid forms at West Point under legendary coach Mike to provide educational support Krzyzewski, not only learned his love of the game, but service to his country. to the children and families Go to gratitudeinitiative.org APPLY SOON! SIGN UP The number of students selected each year “Coach K was a great recruiter, but it was of military service members, is based on the number of qualified applicants IS EASY! Select the APPLY FOR PROGRAMS veterans, disabled veterans and tab to start the process. & funds available, so don’t delay. on serving a greater cause than self that I fell in love with duty, honor, country, West Point those killed in defense of our Gratitude Initiative is a 501(c)(3) non-profit whose mission is to provide educational GRATITUDEINITIATIVE.ORG support and college scholarships to the children and families of military service and serving in the military. It’s the people country. members, veterans, disabled veterans, and those killed in defense of our country. Applications being accepted that kept me in.” for Gratitude Initiative Brown was joined at the ceremony by his tive.org/apply-for-education- Families video at https://vimeo. For more information, visit wife of 37-years, Patti, and both are planning al-programs/ or watch the GI com/354001908/cd93003e3b. https://www.gratitudeinitia- to retire to North Carolina to enjoy time with Program Overview For Army their grandchildren. 5 October 4, 2019 NEWS HISPANIC HERITAGE MONTH Honoring Hispanic Americans – Essential to the blueprint of our nation around them, an enemy grenade was commemoration of a life and the Sgt. Rafael Peralta thrown into their midst. Despite his immortality of a hero. Sgt. Peralta’s wounds, Peralta reportedly pulled legacy will forever be part of this Rafael Peralta was born in Mex- the grenade under his body. He died ship. All he ever wanted to be was ico and immigrated to the United instantly, but saved the lives of his an American, to serve his country.” States. Upon becoming a perma- fellow Marines The ship’s motto, FORTIS AD nent resident of the U.S. in 2000, he On July 29, 2017, the Navy com- FINEM, which translates to “cou- joined the U.S. Marine Corps. While missioned the USS Rafael Peralta, rageous to the end,” stands as a serving as a Marine, he earned U.S. an Arleigh Burke-class guided mis- testament to Peralta’s dedication to citizenship. sile destroyer. At the commission- his country and his fellow Marines. In 2004, during a combat tour ing, the Commandant of the Marine Peralta’s Navy Cross was donated supporting Operation Al Fajr, he Corps, Gen. Robert Neller, honored by his mother and resides aboard was shot and mortally wounded. As Peralta’s memory, “This marks the the ship. his squad fired at the insurgents

Assessment of Recruit Motivation and Strength Program 2.0 Headquarters, Department and past efforts of the The study showed Sol- requirements. Applicants People Strategy and the of the Army, Deputy Chief Army? diers who enlisted under must: program reforms support- of Staff, G-1 The ARMS 2.0 Pilot the original ARMS Pilot Score 50 or higher on the ing it will expand the pool builds on years of Army were able to successfully Armed Services Vocational of eligible men and women What is it? research with a previous complete their terms of Aptitude Battery. to serve without sacrificing The U.S. Army is im- study that indicates the service at the same rate as Pass the Occupational the quality of the force, plementing a new pilot for Army can screen in enlist- those who met height and Physical Assessment Test thus granting service-mind- enlistments under a new ees who, despite, initially weight standards. (OPAT) at the “heavy” ed citizens the opportunity talent management pilot exceeding body fat com- (black) level. to serve. program called the Assess- position standards are fit What continued ef- Choose an occupation ment of Recruit Motivation and can become productive forts does the Army that falls into the “black” Why is this important and Strength Program members of the Army en- have planned? (high) physical demands to the Army? 2.0 (ARMS). Under this listed force. The Army recognizes category. Individual Soldier fitness, new policy, applicants who A RAND study of a previ- the applicant pool often Meet the Army’s body fat health, professional and exceed the body fat compo- ous ARMS Pilot concluded exceeds body fat standards. composition standards no personal development are sition standards but exceed the pilot was an extremely Applicants with a body fat later than 12 months after critical to readiness. ARMS all other standards may cost effective way of in- percentage of no more than joining. 2.0 is a performance-based enlist in the Regular Army, creasing accessions without two percent above the stan- Using talent manage- tool that enables the Army Army National Guard or lowering enlistee aptitude dard will have the oppor- ment, the Army is investing to attract bright, physically Army Reserve. test scores or other quali- tunity to serve if they meet in improving whole-person fit individuals for some of fying criteria, and had no the highest levels of cogni- development as part of its the Army’s most physically What are the current effect on overall attrition. tive and physical strength People Strategy. The Army demanding careers. Myths and facts of breast cancer Staff Report women. Medical Department Activity - Alaska Reality: Over 2,000 cases of male breast cancer are diagnosed During the month of October, every year in the United States. in observance of breast cancer Although it is less common in men awareness, each week Medical than in women, breast cancer can Department Activity - Alaska will affect anyone. be offering myths vs. facts on the Myth: Wearing underwire bras disease that will affect one out of and antiperspirants can cause eight women during their lifetime. breast cancer. Screening for breast cancer Reality: No conclusive evidence should be done annually with a has linked either of these to the clinical exam beginning at the age development of breast cancer. of 20, and women over 40 should Myth: Young women do not get have an annual mammogram. breast cancer. To schedule a mammogram at Reality: You can get breast can- Bassett Army Community Hospital, cer at any age. Over 11,000 women call 361-5081. under 40 are diagnosed with breast Myth: Women with lumpy cancer each year. breasts, also known as fibrocystic Myth: Cancer is a modern dis- breast changes, have a higher risk ease. of developing breast cancer. Reality: It might be more prom- Reality: There does not appear inent now than in the past, but to be any connection at all to breast cancer isn’t just a modern disease cancer and fibrocystic breasts. of western society. Cancer has ex- However, women with fibrocystic isted as long as humans have, and breasts can find it trickier to differ- it has been described thousands of entiate between normal tissue and years ago by Egyptian and Greek cancerous tissue. physicians. Myth: Breast cancer only affects

Energy Action Month 2019

“Energy Resilience Enables Army Readiness” is the Army’s 2019 October Ener- gy Action Month theme. The Army is enhancing readiness by strengthening the capabilities of the current force; modernizing our installations and operational energy programs to build a more lethal force, and reforming business processes to maintain effective warfighting operations. 6 1 April 15, 2016 COMMUNITY CALENDAR Fort Wainwright Family & MWR

MIND-BENDING MAGIC FOR ALL AGES! Weekly Events October 5 - 12 Grow and Giggle October 7 7 9:30 - 11 a.m.

Grow and Giggle assists parents in learning developmentally appropriate play techniques and helps children improve their social, cognitive, and motor skills. Also allows for social time for parents to connect with each other.

Last Frontier Community Activity Center, Building 1044 Call 353-7755 Break the Cycle - Spin Class AS SEEN ON 8 October 8 5:30 - 6:30 p.m.

October is Domestic Violence Prevention Month. Bring awareness to healthy relationships and build resilence through physical fitness at PFC.

Physical Fitness Center, Building 3709 Call 353-7223, registration required

Ice Skating Lessons 9 October 9 & 11 4 - 5:15 p.m.

Wanting to learn how to Ice Skate? PFC has you covered! Friday, October 18 Ice skating lessons are for participants 6 years old and up. Last Frontier Community Activity Center Beginner and Intermediate classes are available. Doors open at 6 p.m., show starts at 7 p.m. Free entry Physical Fitness Center, Building 3709 Beverages available for purchase / Must be 21+ to purchase or consume alcohol Call 353-7223, registration required Families welcome; show intended for older audiences

For more info, go toARMEDFORCESENTERTAINMENT.COM wainwright.armymwr.com. Adult Book Club Last Frontier Community Activity Center, Building 1044 10 October 10 Call 353-7755 5 - 6 p.m. Come join a Adult Book Club at the Post Library every second Thursday of the month from 5 - 6 p.m. October's book club pick is "Where'd You Go Bernadette" by Maria Semple. Pick up a copy at the front desk while supplies last.

Library, Building 3700 Call 353-2642

Welcome to Winter 10 October 10 6 - 8 p.m.

Come learn how to properly “winterize” your vehicle, discover what to wear in the bitter cold, know how to drive on ice, learn how to care for your pets in extreme conditions, find coping mechanisms for the long, dark days!

Last Frontier Community Activity Center, Building 1044 PumpkinFest is almost here! Register by October 10 to get a Call 353-7755 pumpkin! For more info, go to: wainwright.armymwr.com @WainwrightMWR #WainwrightMWR #WainwrightLFCAC

PLEASE VISIT WAINWRIGHT.ARMYMWR.COM FOR A COMPLETE EVENT CALENDAR

@WainwrightMWR #WainwrightMWR 7 October 4, 2019 NEWS Army leaders laid groundwork to combat rising suicide numbers nearly a year ago Joe Lacdan resources for Soldiers health teams in oper- Soldiers, as they could and leaders – the Sol- ational, or deployable, have dual military and While suicides dier Self-Assessment units. These teams civilian careers, said among active-duty Tool, and the Behav- are located in close Lt. Col Rob James, an Soldiers reached their ioral Health Pulse. In proximity to where analyst with the SR2 highest levels in a order to help Soldiers Soldiers live and Directorate. decade last year, Army help themselves, the work, such as close to While the Army has leaders have already Army developed the Soldiers’ barracks or emphasized readiness executed measures to new SSAT, a 15-min- battalion headquar- for its Soldiers in bring those numbers ute survey that pro- ters, to help Soldiers recent years, a heavy down. vides Soldiers an experiencing behavior- operations tempo and The Army released assessment of their al health issues such deployments are not a recent report that psychological, family, as suicidal ideation seen as contributing shows suicides among social, spiritual and gain easier access to factors. Soldiers surpassed 300 physical fitness. The care. “The majority of in 2018, or about 30.8 Sgt. Rebecca Landry and Spc. Asia Jones, 529th SSAT is a streamlined “A vital component Soldiers who died suicides per 100,000 Support Battalion Soldiers, helped spread a power- version of the Global of the EBH program is by suicide have zero people. Deaths by ful message in June to help reduce suicides within Assessment Tool, or alignment of providers or one deployments suicide among Nation- the Army. The Army recently released a report show- GAT, survey that the to units,” said Lt. Col. behind them,” Helis al Guard members ing an increase in active-duty suicides from 2017 to Army has been using Chester Jean, deputy said. continue to remain 2018. Army senior leaders have implemented two to measure Soldiers’ chief of behavioral the highest percentage pilot programs at various installations to help reduce wellbeing since 2009. health at the Office of SEEKING HELP suicide numbers. (Photo by Sgt. Roger Jackson) among the Army’s The revamped BH The Surgeon General. Soldiers who have components, while Re- Pulse provides bri- “We see unit lead- thoughts of suicide serve Soldiers showed gade, battalion com- ership as vital in have a wealth of avail- a slight decrease in The first is a 12-month The one-year test manders and their early identification able resources they suicides. prevention program trains commanders behavioral health of Soldiers who may can take advantage White males aged that will launch this and first-line leaders officers a snapshot as- be suicidal or have of, both anonymous- 20 to 29 between the fall at two Texas in- on how to conduct risk sessment of behavioral suicidal thoughts and ly and through their grades of private first stallations, Fort Bliss assessments and have health across their facilitating access to unit. Helis said Army class to staff sergeant and Fort Hood, and open discussions with formations. Data cap- care,” Helis said. leaders also encourage rank as the high- also at Kentucky’s Soldiers on potential tured through this tool In addition to the chain of command est demographic for Fort Campbell. behavioral health includes suicidality, medical care, SR2 is and bystanders to suicides. According In addition to issues and/or risk indi- depression, post-trau- also providing critical intervene. to the report, a com- watching the fluctua- cators. matic stress disorder, resources and train- A common fear bination of relation- tion in the number of Another leader visi- access to care, barriers ing such as embedded Soldiers have stems ship issues, financial suicides, the test will bility tool the Army is to care, social relation- performance enhance- from the possibility of troubles, work-related closely examine the providing leaders and ships and command ment experts – to negatively impacting problems, pain-related factors that led to the Soldiers is the Com- climate. enhance the resilience their career by seek- and behavioral prob- suicides within each mander’s Risk Reduc- “The information of Soldiers. Resilience ing help or disclosing lems factored into the participating unit. The tion Dashboard Incre- from these tools do is a significant protec- their feelings. Reach- suicides. Army will evaluate ment 2, an update of not come back to tive factor in preven- ing out for help can Suicide prevention the program’s effec- the original version commanders individu- tion of suicide, he said. help Soldiers refocus falls in line with the tiveness in the fall of of the CRRD that was ally,” said Helis. “It’s PEs are available to on the benefits of new Army Chief of 2020. fielded beginning in aggregated to identify teach Soldiers how to improved functioning Staff Gen. James C. “We will also be 2017. to the commanders develop resilience to and alleviate those McConville’s first looking at mainly…the Increment 2 ex- some of the issues that overcome problems fears, Jean said. priority – people, said risk profile of the unit pands commanders’ may be going on in both on duty and at Helis added Soldiers Dr. James A. Helis, and risk factors within visibility from 16 the command and the home. may also fear that director of the SHARP, the organizations. Did factors to up to 40 and awareness and some “We’ve learned seeking help shows Ready and Resilient the risk factors decline provides company and of the risk factors that that there is no single weakness. Army Directorate. over time?” said Helis. battalion commanders may be present in the solution that is going leaders believe it’s the The Army’s G-1 The Army is testing with individual Soldier command climate. to eliminate death by opposite. staff has met with the another initiative: a risk history such as Helis said the vis- suicide,” Helis said. “Recognizing when CSA and the other tool called the R4, or driving under the in- ibility tools “should “It’s a complex chal- you have a challenge Army senior leaders to the Behavioral Health fluence, Uniform Code help commanders bet- lenge and we’re redou- in your life and that discuss suicide pre- Readiness and Risk of Military Justice ter understand their bling our efforts.” you need help is a sign vention and to offer Reduction Review violations, financial formations and better of strength; it’s a sign ideas and initiatives to Tool. The R4, current- issues and domestic design trainings and RARE BUT of self-awareness,” reduce the rate of inci- ly being piloted over problems. The tool interventions.” SERIOUS Helis said. dents in formations. three phases with the provides brigade com- PROBLEM Jean, who has treat- 4th Infantry Division manders with aggre- REDOUBLING Warning signs often ed Soldiers who have PILOT PROGRAMS at Fort Carson, Colora- gate unit data, Helis EFFORTS can be unique to the overcome thoughts of To get at this issue, do, and the 82nd Air- said. To facilitate access individual and the suicide, said Soldiers the Army is testing borne Division at Fort The SR2 Director- to care, the Army has circumstances differ can seek help through two pilot programs. Bragg, North Carolina, ate also created and embedded behavioral from case to case. their first sergeant, launched last spring. updated additional However, many sui- unit chaplain or by cide cases have com- seeking counseling at mon warning signals & ERVICES their unit or installa- FORT WAINWRIGHT FIRE EMERGENCY S to include individu- tion behavioral health als feeling isolated, clinic. helpless, hopeless or a Soldiers also can burden to others, Jean seek help anony- said. While suicides mously by calling the 2019 Fire Prevention remain relatively rare Military Crisis Line or events, studies at this the National Suicide time are unable to Prevention Lifeline at Week explain causes for the 1-800-273-8255. Infor- variance in numbers mation about contact- from year to year. ing the lifeline from “The reason for overseas locations can Did you know? an increase – that is be found at: https:// Home fire escape planning not something that www.veteranscrisis- and drills are an essential we’re able to define line.net/get-help/mili- part of fire safety? even though we know tary-crisis-line. the risk factors,” said “Many Soldiers are Jean, who is an ac- working through their Contact the Fort Wainwright tive-duty psychiatrist. personal challenges Fire Prevention Office for “To be honest, we – such as feelings of further guidance. don’t know,” Helis helplessness and hope- 907-353-9134 or 9133, said. “That’s pretty lessness – with provid- The Fort Wainwright Fire & Emergency Services will be participating in the straightforward. We ers or individually,” 9140, 9141 National Fire Prevention Week which is Oct. 6-12 2019. NFPA has been the don’t know. Suicides Jean said. “Counsel- Fire Inspectors: Vockert, official sponsor of Fire Prevention Week since 1922. According to the National Archives and Records Administration's Library Information Center, Fire are individual events, ors, through a series Hosier, Chapman, Bryant Prevention Week is the longest running public health and safety observance on and while there are of sessions, can help and Hemmings record. The President of the United States has signed a proclamation declaring commonly-identified those suffering think a national observance during that week every year since 1925. Visit risk factors that go through their dis- www.firepreventionweek.org for more safety information. with suicide, what tressing thoughts and triggers an individual emotions, and create ◊ This year’s Fire Prevention Week theme is “Not Every Hero Wears a Cape. to go from being at action plans to help Plan and Practice Your Escape!” It emphasizes the need to have anescape risk to actually at- them cope. plan in place in the event of a house fire and practicing it to make sure tempting or dying by “Through counsel- everyone has enough time to get out. suicide, we don’t fully ing, Soldiers can gain ◊ A home escape plan includes working smoke alarms on every level of the understand.” an increase in perspec- home, in every bedroom, and near all sleeping areas. It also includes two National Guard tive and objectivity ways out of every room, usually a door and a window, with a clear path to an members often have with regard to how Assistant Chief of Fire outside meeting place (like a tree, light pole or mailbox) that’s a safe distance life circumstances that they view their situa- from the home. Home escape plans should be practiced twice a year by all differ from active-duty tion,” Jean said. Prevention John E. Serrato members of the household, according to the NFPA. 907-353-9164 [email protected]

Fort Wainwright 2019 Events

◊ PX/Food court booth. Oct 7th – 11th from 1100-1400 – Information tablewith fire prevention items for school age children and other safetyitems. Fire Prevention Office ◊ Arctic Elementary School visit. Oct. 10th from 1230-1430 – Fire Truckdisplay, 1049 Chena Road Apt. 9 Sparky, and an information table with fire prevention items for school age Fort Wainwright AK., children. 99703 ◊ CDC I – Oct 10th from 1000-1100 – Fire Truck display and a visit from Sparky.