inside ... 558th fts reactivates, p4 ... 101 cdos looms - San Antonio ...

MAY 21, 2010WINGSPREADPAGE 3More bases to advertise vacancies on USAJOBSApplicants will beable to savemultiple resumes,track applicationsBy April RowdenAir Force Personnel Center Public Affairs OfficeEight additional locations will beginusing USAJOBS.gov on Monday toadvertise vacancies to current AirForce employees.Charleston Air Force Base, S.C.;McGuire AFB, N.J.; McChord AFB,Wash.; Langley AFB, Va.; ElmendorfAFB, Alaska; Andersen AFB, Guam;and the Air Force District ofWashington’s Bolling AFB and thePentagon make up Phase II of the AirForce’s civilian initiative to useUSAJOBS to announce jobs vacanciesto internal and external candidates.Osan Air Base, South Korea;Goodfellow AFB, Texas; and all thebases under U.S. Air Forces in Europelaunched the program Feb. 22.By phasing in the use of USAJOBS, AirForce officials are able to test systemenhancements, verify that the programcreates a more timely hiring process,and respond to feedback from the field.“Above all, we want to ensure weallow time for feedback from our selectingsupervisors, local civilian personnelsection staff, employees and applicantsthat this recruitment tool is meetingtheir needs,” said Jamie Beattie of theAir Force Personnel Center.The feedback has been positive.“Our internal Air Force employeesfeel they are receiving fair considerationby applying via a resume in lieuof career briefs with skills coding, andour selecting supervisors appreciatereceiving only one certificate withboth internal and external candidatesinstead of the two they received in thepast,” Ms. Beattie said.Individuals applying for jobs at the testbases will apply through USAJOBSinstead of the Air Force CivilianEmployment Self-Nomination Applicationfound on the Air Force PersonnelCenter’s secure Web site.After creating an account throughUSAJOBS, employees will have theability to build and save up to five differentresumes. Applicants then selectwhich resume they want to submitbased on the qualifications needed forthe job vacancy. From there, an applicantcan track when the application isreceived, when it’s assessed for qualificationsand if it’s referred to aselecting official.Applicants can verify the announcementis available to current Air Forcecivilian candidates by looking for the“Current Permanent Air ForceEmployee” eligibility statement on jobsadvertised in USAJOBS. Applicantsshould identify themselves as current AirForce employees in the assessmentquestionnaire included in the vacancyannouncement.USAJOBS can be accessed by computeror smart phone using a usernameand password 24 hours a day,seven days a week.For guidance on preparing resumes,interview techniques or other careersearchassistance, contact the localAirman and Family Readiness Center.For more information on USAstaffing, Air Force employees may callthe 24-hour Total Force ServiceCenter at 800-525-0102.

PAGE 4 WINGSPREADMAY 21, 2010By Sean Bowlin502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public AffairsThe Air Force made history atRandolph Air Force Base Thursday, whenit reactivated the 558th Flying TrainingSquadron as its first undergraduateremotely piloted aircraft pilot and sensoroperator training unit Thursday.Taking the flag of command was Lt.Col. Bryan Runkle, who said the 558thFTS’s mission is simple.“Our job is to develop and execute theAir Force’s RPA pilot and sensor operatorundergraduate training to meet currentand emerging Department of Defenseand international requirements,” thecolonel said. “Remotely piloted aircraftare no longer just the future of the AirForce’s aviation arm – instead, they’recurrently the most sought-after capabilityin theater. I’m honored to be a part ofthis new mission.”Colonel Runkle added establishing the558th FTS will formally establish andstandardize a career launching point forRPA pilots and sensor operators.“It’s a critical step in defining RPA as amajor weapon system. All of this is necessaryto meet the Air Force’s increasingdemand for RPA aviators,” he explainedMaster Sgt. Sammy Garvin, 558th FTSfirst sergeant, added the squadron willeventually grow to about 70 permanentpartyAirmen and will train more than500 students a year.One instructor dealing with studentsdaily said he is looking forward to beingpart of the new unit because it gives himthe opportunity to mold and mentoryoung warriors in an emerging careerfield that is taking the fight to the enemy.“I really want to use the nine years ofoperational RPA experience,” said StaffSgt. Shawn Compton, Basic SensorOperator Course instructor supervisor.NEWSHistoric move: RPA, BSOT squadron activatesPhoto by Sean BowlinLt. Col. Bryan Runkle, incoming 558th Flying Training Squadron commander, briefsthe squadron’s key staff non-commissioned officers May 12.“I want to help shape and develop thisnew sensor operator field and givethese student Airmen pride in theirnew singular identity.”Those students are also part of the558th FTS, which comprises of three formalcourses, plus a military training flightresponsible for the oversight of non-priorservice enlisted Airmen fresh from BasicMilitary Training.The formal courses taught at thesquadron are the RPA InstrumentA Department of Defense Comprehensive ReviewWorking Group discussed issues associated with therepeal of the law prohibiting gays and lesbians fromopenly serving in the military, commonly known as“Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell,” with Airmen at Lackland andRandolph May 4 and 5.“Having the opportunity to speak with servicemembersand their families allowed the working group to geta better understanding of the issues and concerns theymay have if the law is repealed,” said Lt. Gen. DickNewton, Deputy Chief of Staff for Manpower andPersonnel, Head-quarters U.S. Air Force.“These forums have been very beneficial and will providevaluable feedback to the survey team and theirefforts,” he said.Information Exchange Forums and panel discussionsallowed approximately 1,000 servicemembersto talk with working group senior leadersabout issues associated with repeal of the law,including impacts on military and family readiness,unit cohesion, recruiting and retention.After the IEFs, smaller focus groups were conductedwith randomly selected servicemembers for more indepthdiscussion on specific questions.Family members were also invited to attend separateforums to share their views on issues they may face ifthe law is repealed.A plan of action to address issues involved with implementinga repeal of the law will be submitted to theSecretary of Defense by Dec. 1.The working group’s mission is not to engage indebate about whether or not to repeal the law, but tounderstand how servicemembers and their families willbe impacted should repeal occur.The Defense Department also created an online inboxthat enables servicemembers and their families to commentanonymously about the impact of a possible repealof the law.The inbox lets servicemembers and families offer theirthoughts about repealing the law.Qualification Course, which trains officerpilot candidates through flightsimulators, classroom academics andflight environment immersion activities.The Basic Sensor OperatorCourse is a three-level technical trainingenlisted specialty course for RPAsensor operators, with academicsfocusing on electronic sensor theoryand RPA applications. The third formalcourse is the RPA fundamentalscourse, which gives RIQ and BSOCalumni an introduction to theatercombat planning, operations, threatsand interface with the U.S.Army.Colonel Runkle said, “One of the biggestchallenges after the activation period willbe moving the various classrooms, simulatorsand Airmen into a permanent facility,while increasing the student populationand meeting new requirements.”The 558th FTS traces its lineage backto November 1942 with the establishmentof the 558th BombardmentSquadron, and was inactivated andreactivated once prior to its secondinactivation in 1970 following action inthe Vietnam War. In 1992 the 558threactivated under the 12th FlyingTraining Wing and trained undergraduatenavigators until 1996. The 558thwas reactivated at Randolph AFB againin 2002 to train T-6A instructor pilotsuntil its inactivation in 2006.Airmen discuss ‘Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell’A non-Defense Department contractor will monitorcomments made through the inbox and eliminate anyidentifiable information inadvertently submitted toensure anonymity.The inbox is posted at http://www.defense.gov/dadt.Respondents must possess an official Common AccessCard to provide input.(Courtesy of the DoD Comprehensive ReviewWorking Group)

MAY 21, 2010WINGSPREADTwelve graduate from Gaylor Airman Leadership SchoolTwo staff sergeants and 10 senior airmen graduatedfrom the Gaylor Airman Leadership SchoolTuesday during a ceremony at the Parr O’Club.The Airmen successfully completed 24 academicduty-days consisting of 192 hours of classroominstruction in Supervisory Communicator, Supervisorof Airman, Military Professional and Combat Leader.Three of these Airmen were presented specialawards during the ceremony. Senior Airman AnthonyCosentino, 359th Aerospace Medicine Squadron,earned the John L. Levitow Award while SeniorAirman Tyler McLain, 902nd Civil EngineerSquadron, was awarded the Commandant Award.Staff Sgt. Christela Turner, 359th Aerospace MedicineSquadron, received the Academic Award.Other graduates were:• Staff Sgt. Casha Dees, Air Force Personnel Center• Senior Airman Justin Canion, DET 2 561 NetworkOperations Squadron• Senior Airman Stefan Gay, JointPersonal Property Shipping Office• Senior Airman Richard Langlois,902nd Force Support Squadron• Senior Airman EmmanuelMercado, AFPC• Senior Airman Catherine Steely,AFPC• Senior Airman DominickPondant, 902nd SecurityForces Squadron• Senior Airman Pauline Flores,AFPC• Senior Airman Angela Taylor,359th Medical OperationsSquadronSenior AirmanAnthony CosentinoThe guest speaker for the graduation ceremony wasChief Master Sgt. Frederick Soechting, Air ForceEnlisted Command and Control Assignments chief,Headquarters Air Force Personnel Center.Senior AirmanTyler McLainPAGE 5Staff Sgt.Christela TurnerThe ALS is affiliated with the Community Collegeof the Air Force through Enlisted ProfessionalMilitary Education. The graduates are awarded 10semester hours towards a CCAF degree.RetractionThe Wingspread staff strives to print factual, timely information ona consistent basis. Part of that responsibility includes highlightingextraordinary actions by members of our military family. On April 9,the Wingspread published an article detailing the actions of aRandolph-based military member to stop a crime in progress at a localeatery. Since then, it has been discovered that inaccurate informationwas provided to the Wingspread office. The Wingspread staff retractsthe article and apologizes for any confusion this may have caused.We thank you for your readership, and will continue to provide youwith the most accurate and up-to-date information as possible.

PAGE 6 WINGSPREADMAY 21, 2010101 CRITICAL DAYS OF SUMMER PREVIEWStand-down focuses on wingman conceptsBy Robert Goetz502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public AffairsThe Air Force has lost 18 Airmen, eight Guardsmenand Reservists and three civilians to suicide so far thisyear, and private motor vehicle accidents continue toaccount for some 50 fatalities per year.In an effort to prevent further tragedies, Air Forceleadership has directed a half-day wingman standdownfor all units this month, a precursor to the annual101 Critical Days of Summer safety campaign.The Randolph Air Force Base community willobserve the stand-down Tuesday with viewings of“message home” and safety videos in conjunction withgroup discussions in the workplace in accordance withthe Air Force concept-of-operations document.“Knowing your people is the overall theme of thestand-down,” said Tech. Sgt. David Roller, 502nd AirBase Wing Operating Location Bravo ground safetycraftsman. “We will be following the CONOPS plan.”According to the stand-down plan, the use of themessage home video, which will be downloaded fromthe Air Force Suicide Prevention Web site, and smallgroup discussions “will encourage Airmen to strengthenthe wingman concept and help Airmen make betterchoices that will reduce the number of private motorvehicle mishaps and suicides affecting our force.”Different scenarios involving Airmen are recommendedfor discussion.Robert Graves, 502nd ABW deputy commander, saidin an e-mail message the stand-down “is a great opportunityfor commanders and supervisors to conduct aface-to-face meeting with personnel to let them knowyou care.”Maj. Brian Everitt, 359th Medical OperationsSquadron Mental Health Flight commander, called theeffort to address the problems of suicides and privatemotor vehicle accidents a supplement to the more comprehensive101 CDOS safety campaign.“These 101 days are a critical time for the Air Forceand it is important we take care of our most importantasset, our people,” he said.Sergeant Roller, who said three fatal motor vehicleaccidents in recent weeks have involved personnel atAir Education and Training Command bases, includingRandolph, said the stand-down should make Airmenand civilians more attuned to colleagues at risk for suicideor who engage in risky behavior.“The stand-down lets people know we’re losing fartoo many people to bad decisions,” he said.In their Air Force-wide memo, Gen. NortonSchwartz, Air Force chief of staff, and Chief Master Sgt.of the Air Force James Roy, said the loss of any Airman“demands our renewed and steady focus on preventingthese tragedies.”“We must redouble our efforts to identify those atrisk for suicide and get them the support they need toregain hope and balance in their lives,” they said.General Schwartz and Chief Roy also said the AirForce must discourage reckless behaviors such asspeeding, extreme maneuvers, the use of alcoholwhen driving and not wearing proper motorcycleprotective equipment.“Each of us has a responsibility to intervene when wesee signs of hopelessness or risky behaviors in our fellowAirmen,” they said.

MAY 21, 2010WINGSPREADPAGE 7101 CRITICAL DAYS OF SUMMERTurning a horrific family tragedy into a positive lessonBy Senior Airman Wesley Wright502nd ABW OL-A Public AffairsStaff Sgt. Aron Lee was new to Lackland AirForce Base. He had been through numerousbriefings, but this was his first safety briefing.The 737th Training Group unit trainingmanager settled in for another routinesafety briefing until up popped a slide listingactive duty casualties with a date: April5, 2009. His heart rate instantly skyrocketedand his palms started sweating as hiseyes locked on the information.The presenter’s voice was a dull drone inthe background, “In April of 2009, twotechnical sergeants stationed at Lacklandwere killed when …”Sergeant Lee was instantly jolted back intime to that fateful Sunday morning when hewas stationed at Cannon AFB, N.M.A large, church-going family, it was customaryfor mom Carol to call her son each Sundayto see how everybody on his end was doing andto exchange ‘I love you’s’.This Sunday morning’s call came earlierthan usual, 6 a.m.“Your sister and her husband have been in amotorcycle accident,” she said. “I’ll call backwhen I have more details.”Sergeant Lee immediately hoped for the bestfor his sister Audra and her husband Reese.When his mom called back and gave him thenews that Reese didn’t make it and Audra wasin intensive care, his heart sank and he beganpacking to travel to Lackland.“Immediately tears began flowing,”Sergeant Lee said. “I was frantic. My firstthought was for my nephew, Nathanial,who was 4 years old at the time. Thisyoung man has to grow up without afather. Who’s going to take care of him?”Sergeant Lee got the full details afterarriving: Audra and Reese Britt were partof a motorcycle group on their way back toLackland from a rally in Austin around 2a.m. Reese was driving his bike and Audrawas on the back. Suddenly, out of nowhere,a drunken driver (who five hours after theaccident had a blood-alcohol content of0.15) swerved his SUV over multiple lanesSee 101 CDOS P16Courtesy photoThe family of Tech. Sgt. Audra Britt gather around her grave at the FortSam Houston National Cemetery. Sergeant Britt was killed by a drunkendriver in April 2009.

PAGE 8 WINGSPREADMAY 21, 2010New face in 12th FTWChief Master Sgt. Steven Jones wasselected to become the 12th FlyingTraining Wing’s newest command chief,and officially took charge as the commandchief in April.Chief Jones has a background in aircraftmaintenance, with a range ofexperience both fixing and managingaircraft such as the B-52H, B-1B, KC-135 A/R, E-3A, HH-60, F-15C/D, C-5, C-17 and KC-10. Prior to assuming hiscurrent position, Chief Jones was the715th Air Mobility Operations Groupsuperintendent at Hickam Air ForceBase, Hawaii.“I’m a Texas boy, and glad to be backin my home state,” Chief Jones said.“I’m really looking forward to filling thecommand chief’s position after 26 yearsin aircraft maintenance.”Hailing from Fort Worth, Texas, ChiefJones entered the Air Force in June1983. Following graduation from BasicMilitary Training at Lackland Air ForceBase, Chief Jones held positions at multipleinstallations including: SheppardAFB, Texas, Dyess AFB, Texas,McConnell AFB, Kan., Kadena Air Base,Japan, Hickam AFB and has deployedin support of Operation EnduringFreedom in Afghanistan and thePhilippines.Chief Master Sgt. Steven JonesChief Jones’ various major awardsand decorations include the MeritoriousService Medal with five oak leaf clusters,the Air Force CommendationMedal with one oak leaf cluster and theAir Force Achievement Medal.Heand his wife Leann have two children:Lauren, 27, and Zach, 25.To advertise in theWingspread, call210-534-8848

MAY 21, 2010WINGSPREADPAGE 9FULL PAGE ADS

MAY 21, 2010WINGSPREADPAGE 11RetirementCongratulations to Col. Tom Bell, AirEducation and Training Command,and Donna Williams, Air ForcePersonnel Center, on their retirement.Wing stand downRandolph will observe the Air Forcechief of staff-mandated stand-downday with a Wingman Day Tuesday. SeePage 6 for the full story and scheduleof events.East gate closureThe Randolph Civil EngineerSquadron has closed Randolph’s EastGate for installation of an in-grounddenial barrier system, and it is notopen to traffic. The gate is scheduledto reopen for normal traffic patternsTuesday at 6 a.m.Blood driveRandolph High School hosts a blooddrive May 28 from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. inRoom 21 at the high school.Asian Pacific Month eventThe Asian Pacific American HeritageMonth committee hosts a festivaltoday at 11:30 a.m. at the youth centergym. All are welcome to attend.Volunteer eventThe Air Force Sergeants AssociationChapter 1075 seeks volunteers to readto children attending Randolph’s mainChild Development Center the secondand fourth Tuesday. Times start at10 a.m. and 2:30 p.m.To volunteer, call 565-3292.Air Force YouthAir Force Force Support is scheduledto host the first-ever five-day residentialTeen Leadership Camp July 12-16on the campus of the University ofTexas at San Antonio. Applications areavailable at Bldg. 584 and online atwww.afyouthprograms.com. The applicationprocess is competitive and opento upcoming high school students.For more details, call 652-3298.Base BRIEFSMaster Sergeant selectionRandolph hosts the 2010 mastersergeant selection celebrationThursday at 3:30 p.m. at theKendrick Club. Selectees should planto pay $100 and the event is open toRandolph employees.ToastmastersThe Randolph Toastmasters clubhosts an open house dinner and meetingMonday from 6-9 p.m. at DragonLake Chinese restaurant.For more details, call 652-9437.Spring JubileeThe American Legion Post 593 hoststheir annual Spring Jubilee May 28-30at the Converse City Park. For moreinformation, visit www.Post593.org.DoD jobsThose interested in learning moreabout Department of Defense employmentshould visit www.usajobs.gov.Clinic moveThe Child and AdolescentPsychology Clinic has moved fromWilford Hall Medical Center to the D lottrailers at Brooke Army Medical Center.Base SupplyThe 902nd Logistics ReadinessSquadron announced multiple noticesto customers that can be found electronicallyat www.randolph.af.mil byclicking on the ‘Round Randolph tab.AFPC jobsVisit www.afpc.randolph.af.mil forAir Force Personnel Center civilian jobopportunities.EDUCATION OFFICE - 652-5964DANTES examsBeginning FY11, DANTES will nolonger cover the cost for an Airmanretaking a CLEP or DANTES test. Allretest cost will be out-of-pocket formilitary students.NOW SHOWINGat theRandolph Theater“The Last Song” (PG)Miley Cyrus, Greg KinnearToday @ 7 p.m.“The Last Song” (PG)Miley Cyrus, Greg KinnearSaturday @ 6 p.m.“Date Night” (PG-13)Steve Carell, Tina FeySunday @ 3 p.m.$4 for adults$2 for children 11 and underCall 652-3278 for details.For a complete listing of basebriefs, including education briefs,visit www.randolph.af.mil. andclick on ‘Round Randolph

PAGE 12 WINGSPREADMAY 21, 2010AF aviators complete CSO trainingTwenty-one Air Force aviatorswill receive their wings duringa combat systems officergraduation today at 10 a.m.in the Parr Club.During the combat systems officercourse, students learnfundamental, system andintermediate navigation.Students spend about 12 monthsin training, including anIntroductory Flight School.2nd Lt. Christopher ArreolaMC-130PEglin AFB, Fla.2nd Lt. Nicholas ChristiRC-135 (EWO)Offutt AFB, Neb.2nd Lt. Clayton HafernikC-130Dyess AFB, Texas2nd Lt. Nicholas HarmonC-130Little Rock AFB, Ark.2nd Lt. Christopher JonesAC-130U (EWO)Hurlburt Field, Fla.2nd Lt. Brent KernsB-52 (EWO)Barksdale AFB, La.2nd Lt. Mi-Ya MataRC-135Offutt AFB, Neb.2nd Lt. Samantha MaysonetE-8 JSTARRobbins AFB, Ga.2nd Lt. Marco OronosRC-135Offutt AFB, Neb.2nd Lt. Joseph RanchB-52 (EWO)Barksdale AFB, La.2nd Lt. Nathaniel RayU-28 (EWO)Hurlburt Field, Fla.2nd Lt. Duane ReidAC-130HCannon AFB, N.M.2nd Lt. Nicholas RemacleC-130Nevada ANGCapt. Todd RushfordMC-130EDuke Field, Fla.2nd Lt. Steven StrubeC-130Little Rock AFB, Ark.2nd Lt. Tiffany SzumilaC-130Little Rock AFB, Ark.2nd Lt. Eric TalbotMC-130WCannon AFB, N.M.2nd Lt. Fleming ThompsonB-52Barksdale AFB, La.2nd Lt. David ThomsonHC-130P/EDavis Monthan AFB, Ariz.2nd Lt. Joseph EllisB-52 (EWO)Barksdale AFB, La.Jack DonovanAward WinnerWhat has been themost challengingaspect of the course?“You should alwaysdrive to the finish.That was the mostchallenging aspectbecause a minormistake can be fixed,but if you allow it tobuild up to a majorerror, that can takeyou down or those youare responsible for.That is how you fail.Never let a minorerror consume you.”2nd Lt. Brandon PasterskiB-52Barksdale AFB, La.Ira J. Husik Award Winner562nd AcademicExcellence WinnerWhat are the biggest lessonsyou have learnedfrom your training so far?“The most importantlesson I have learnedthroughout my training hasbeen the importance of eachcrew member on any crewaircraft. The confidence andtrust each person mustplace on every other is vitalto successful and safemissions. Every person onthe aircraft has a say and itis essential that eachperson’s opinion is heard,analyzed and fully understoodprior to any decisionbeing made.”

MAY 21, 2010WINGSPREADFEATUREPAGE 13JBSA hostsNationalPolice WeekSecurity Forces units of Joint BaseSan Antonio hosted National PoliceWeek May 10-14 at multiplelocations on Camp Bullis andLackland Air Force Base to honorfallen comrades. The event, alsoopen to all local police agencies,included an obstacle course and ruckmarch, a military working dogcompetition, memorial run, combatshooting course and close quartersactive shooter challenge.Staff Sgt. Jacinto Nunez, 902nd Security ForcesSquadron, flips over the top of a reverse high walland prepares to slide down the back during theobstacle course portion of the event.Photo by Steve ThurowPhoto by Steve WhiteParticipants in the 2010 National Police Week load paint balls forammunition in preparation for the close quarters active shooterchallenge May 14 at the Old Bluebonnet Inn at Lackland AFB.Photo by Steve WhiteStaff Sgt. Crystal Kanady, 902nd Security ForcesSquadron, guides Military Working Dog Bak during theK-9 competition May 13 at Lackland AFB.Photo by Steve ThurowStaff Sgt. Michelle Casas, 902nd Security ForcesSquadron, tightens the straps on her pack whilepreparing for a three-mile ruck march. The marchrequired participants to carry a pack containing at least45 pounds. Staff Sgt. Casas’ team placed third with atime of 1:08:16.

PAGE 14 WINGSPREADMAY 21, 2010DePLAYment program provides free activitiesBy Robert Goetz502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public AffairsIn their memorandumannouncing Year of the AirForce Family last July,Secretary of the AirForce Michael Donleyand Air Force Chief ofStaff Gen. NortonSchwartz said theyear-long observanceprovides the servicewith a “perfect opportunityto say thank you” toAirmen and their families.A program createdespecially for Year of the AirForce Family says “thank you” to the families ofdeployed servicemembers at Randolph in a specialway: numerous free activities ranging from youthflag football and volleyball registration to themepark outings.“The DePLAYment Tag Pass Program is the AirForce’s way of saying we appreciate your dedicationand we understand the hardship deployment placeson your family,” said Shelta Reese, 902nd ForceSupport Squadron marketing director.She said the special Year of the Air Force Familyinitiative gives each child a variety of free recreationalopportunities, including an instructionalclass and a sports program.The program also allows families to enjoy quality“The DePLAYment Tag Pass Program is the Air Force’s wayof saying we appreciate your dedication and we understandthe hardship deployment places on your family.”time together through activities such astheme park outings, golf lessons, bowlingand swimming and provides parents with 10hours of free child care. Equipment rental and partypackages are also available.Outdoor recreation is sponsoring visits to themeparks in the area, including Six Flags Fiesta TexasMay 29, Sea World June 26 and Splashtown July 10;youth programs is arranging trips to SchlitterbahnJune 19 and July 24.Program tag pass packs may be picked up at theAirman and Family Readiness Center Mondaythrough Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., saidKaren Rudolph, 902nd FSS Airman and FamilyServices Flight chief. Tag pass packs contain numbereddog tags that can be removed and placed on akey chain; each family member receives one tag.Participants must register at www.myairforcelife.com,where information on the program is provided.“You also have to provide a set of deploymentorders,” she said. “The spouses and dependents ofShelta Reese902nd Force Support Squadron marketing directorany Airman deployed any time between July 2009and July 2010 are eligible for the program.”Ms. Rudolph said the Air Force set the parametersfor the program, and the 902nd FSS tailored it to useRandolph’s resources, including the Information,Tickets and Travel office, outdoor recreation, youthprograms and the base library.“We worked as creatively as we could within thoseparameters to support our families,” she said. “Weidentified the resources that support our families.”Families who have used the tag passes so far are“excited” about the program, Ms. Rudolph said.“It’s a great program that saves them money,” shesaid. “The feedback has been very positive. It’s alsobrought more attention to our programs.”Ms. Rudolph said the DePLAYment Tag PassProgram, which is scheduled to end July 31, “supportsfamilies in a way they deserve.”“We want people to enjoy it,” she said. “It’s asolid program that helps them in the reintegrationprocess.”

MAY 21, 2010WINGSPREADPAGE 15JAG Corps announces 2011 law school programsCourtesy of 502nd Air Base Wing Staff Judge AdvocateApplications for the Funded LegalEducation Program and Excess LeaveProgram will be accepted Jan. 1–March 1,2011. The programs are designed to allowactive-duty officers to apply for and attendlaw school.FLEP is a paid legal studies programfor active-duty Air Force commissionedofficers and is considered an assignmentaction in which participantsreceive full pay, allowances and tuition.Applicants must have between two andsix years active-duty service (enlisted orcommissioned) and must be in the paygrade O-3 or below as of the day theybegin law school.The FLEP program is subject to tuitionlimitations and positions may be limiteddue to overall funding availability. The AirForce Institute of Technology tuition limitfor fiscal 2010 was approximately $16,000per year. This amount may change year toyear.The ELP is an unpaid legal studies programfor Air Force officers where participantsdo not receive pay and allowances,but remain on active duty for retirementeligibility and benefits purposes. ELPapplicants must have between two and10 years active-duty service and must bein the pay grade O-3 or below as of thefirst day of law school.“The FLEP and ELP will ensure that wecan continue to maintain a Corps ofofficers whose military experiencecomplements their legal trainingproviding commanders with the highestcaliber of legal support.”Maj. T. Shane HeavenerOffice of The Judge Advocate General“Our Air Force missions are constantly changing,and commanders deserve to have access tolegal advisors with a broad background of militaryexperiences,” said Maj. T. Shane Heavener,chief of the accessions branch, ProfessionalDevelopment Directorate, Office of the JudgeAdvocate General. “The FLEP and ELP willensure that we can continue to maintain a corpsof officers whose military experience complementstheir legal training providing commanderswith the highest caliber of legal support.”According to Col. Dan Rogers, 502nd Air BaseWing Staff Judge Advocate, Air Force JAGs domore than just provide legal assistance. In additionto prosecuting and defending clientsbrought before courts-martial, JAG officers routinelyparticipate in nearly every facet of the AirForce mission, including developing and acquiringweapons systems, ensuring availability ofairspace and ranges where those systems aretested and operated, consulting with commandersabout how those systems are employed inarmed conflict and assisting commanders in theday-to-day running of military installationsaround the world.“Every facet of every Air Force mission isbound by elements of the law,” Colonel Rogerssaid.Both the FLEP and ELP programs requireattendance at an American Bar Associationaccreditedlaw school. Upon graduation andadmission to practice law in the highest court ofany state, territory of the United States, or a federalcourt, candidates are eligible for designationas judge advocates.To be considered for FLEP or ELP, applicantsmust complete all application forms, apply(acceptance is not required at the time of applicationfor FLEP or ELP) to at least one ABAaccreditedlaw school, receive their Law SchoolAdmissions Test results and complete a StaffJudge Advocate interview by Feb. 15, 2011.Officers must also provide a letter of conditionalrelease from their current career field. Selectionfor both programs is competitive.Applications will meet a selection board inearly March 2011, and selections are madebased on a review of the application packageusing a whole person concept.Visit www.airforce.com/jag for an application.For details on the programs, read Air ForceInstruction 51-101, Judge Advocate AccessionProgram, Chapters 2 and 3 or contact Capt. JaneKoudelka, 502nd ABW legal office at 808-0019or Capt. Laura DeSio, Headquarters USAF JudgeAdvocate Office, at 1-800-JAG-USAF.

PAGE 16 WINGSPREADMAY 21, 2010101 CDOS from P7of traffic, bounced off a car and bowling-balled intothe group of bikes.Although all the riders were wearing full protectivegear, the impact was devastating. Reese waskilled instantly. A friend riding with them, KeithHalabert, was also killed.The family still had hope for Audra, though. She washooked up to life support, but was unconscious andunresponsive.“When I saw her it was the most disheartening look onher face I’ve ever seen,” Sergeant Lee said. “It was her,but it wasn’t her.”The family did everything they could to keep faith.They prayed for her daily and talked to her often, hopingsomething was getting through.“I had Nathanial record a message for his mom and Iplayed it over and over into her ear,” Sergeant Lee said.Six days later, after numerous tests and no responsefrom Audra, doctors informed the family they had toturn off life support.“The doctor was trying to get in the room to turn offthe machines but I wouldn’t let him,” Sergeant Lee said.“I didn’t want this to be the end.”When they turned the machines off, her eyes openeddue to the pressure of the machines no longer keepingthem closed. To me, it was like she was getting one lastlook before she left. I closed her eyes. It was the mostpainful thing I’ve ever experienced. The ignorance of oneman just devastated the lives of so many people.”“I had Nathanial record a messagefor his mom and I played it over andover into her ear.”Staff Sgt. Aron LeeSergeant Lee’s pain turned to anger.“I was angry at first,” he said. “I was angry that Godlet this happen. Then, the realization hit me that this wasridiculous. This was not me. This is not what Audrawould have wanted.”Sergeant Lee said the outpouring of love and supportfrom their Air Force family, specifically at Lackland, wasamazing and was a big reason they were able to keep ittogether during this tragedy.Slowly, as wounds began to heal a little, the Lee familystarted thinking about what they could do to turn thistragedy into something beautiful.The Lees started a nonprofit organization calledEvade411, with the goal being to empower victorythrough alcohol and drug education.“The 411 stands for free information, but it’s also thedate my sister passed,” Sergeant Lee said. “It’s all abouteducation. There are a lot people who don’t know aboutalcohol. They know the effects, but they don’t know theentire process from the time it hits your mouth until itleaves your body.”People can learn more about the organization andhow they can help educate others by visitingwww.evade411.com.Members of the Lee family have begun steps tobecome licensed drug and alcohol dependencycounselors.The Lee family is also actively involved in thecourt system, offering classes to people who want tomake better decisions.Additionally, Sergeant Lee will be giving briefings atLackland and other locations throughout the 101 CriticalDays of Summer so people can put a face with the statisticsand realize the inherent dangers of alcohol.“As I sat in that first safety briefing here andlooked around, I thought of how much different itwould be if there was a face up there,” SergeantLee said. “When you have a passionate person upthere telling their story with pictures and how itaffected them, it becomes very real.”Now, when Audra’s and Reese’s birthdays roll aroundeach year, the Lees gather around the graves with 12balloons. Nathanial holds them and says a message inhis heart to his mom before letting them go one by one,each with a thought.“In my heart, I can see her getting her balloonsand smiling,” Sergeant Lee said. “This is what shewould have wanted. We’re taking back everythingthe drunk driver stole from us by helping educateothers. Together, with the help of God and our AirForce family, we are taking a negative and turningit into a positive.”

MAY 21, 2010WINGSPREADADVERTISEMENTPAGE 17902nd Force Support Squadron Briefs

PAGE 18 WINGSPREADMAY 21, 2010SPORTS - HEALTH - FITNESSWarrior Games closing marks new beginningBy Army Sgt. 1st Class Michael J. CardenAmerican Forces Press ServiceCOLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. – The 2010Warrior Games may have ended May 14,but for the wounded warriors who competedhere this week, their work is just beginning,officials hope.“You’ve just completed a rigorous test ofyour physical and mental skills, your strengthand endurance,” Navy Adm. Mike Mullen,chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, told theathletes in a video message aired during theclosing ceremony. “But now is no time to rest.I’d like you to take what you’ve done here,what you’ve learned here and continue toserve as role models for others striving to findthe independence they need.”The competition formally ended in theevening at the Air Force Academy in a ceremonyhonoring the nearly 200 woundedwarriors and disabled veterans who representedtheir services in the inauguralWarrior Games.The troops competed in a week-longseries of Paralympic-type events at the U.S.Olympic Training Center and at theAcademy. They were challenged as individualsand in teams in shooting, swimming,archery, sitting volleyball, cycling, wheelchairbasketball and track and field events.Each athlete was selected by his or herservice to compete because of the progresshe or she made using adaptive sports as amethod of rehabilitation. Their willingnessto participate in the games and ability toovercome adversity can inspire others to dothe same, Admiral Mullen said.“You’ve demonstrated how physical fitnesscan help heal the mind, body and soul,” theadmiral added. “That’s a message worth sharing,and yours is a story worth telling.”Admiral Mullen lauded the troops for theiraccomplishments, but reminded them thatother wounded warriors need their help.That means helping wounded troopsunderstand how to properly heal themselvesand find closure in their injuries, Gen. VictorRenuart Jr., commander of U.S. NorthernCommand and North American AerospaceDefense Command, told the troops. GeneralRenuart, who has led the commands forthree years from their headquarters atPeterson Air Force Base, Colo., is retiringfrom the position next week.Overcoming adversity is more thansimply healing physical wounds, GeneralRenuart said. It involves accepting newchallenges and taking risks, pushing thePhoto by Staff Sgt. Desiree N. PalaciosTeam Air Force throws their hands in for a quick cheer before playing the wheelchair basketball bronzemedal match against the Navy team during the Warrior Games May 12 at the Olympic Training Centerin Colorado Springs, Colo. The Air Force went on to win the game 13-10.limits of your disabilities.“Healing is an interesting situation a persongoes through,” he said. “Certainly, healing isabout recovering from an injury or recoveringfrom an illness, but healing is also about findinghow much you can push yourself.“There was a lot of healing going on thisweek, and a little bit of fun, too,” he added.General Renuart recalled some of the actionhe watched during the week. The competitionswere hard fought and filled with all the spiritand aggressiveness officials had hoped for inthe games, he said.“Certainly, there were teams out therefighting for their colors, but I notice in everycircumstance, when the competition ended,there were arms around each other,”General Renuart said. “It was about how wecompeted as a team.”General Renuart presented the Chairman’sCup to the Marine Corps team on behalf ofAdmiral Mullen. The honor is bestowed on theteam with the most points at the end of theweek based on medal count.Retired Marine Lance Cpl. Chuck Sketchaccepted the award for his team. TheMarines elected him as their captain beforethe competition.Corporal Sketch lost his sight in August 1997from a brain tumor, and then had to be amputatedfrom the waist down in January 1998due to complications from the same tumor.He competed in swimming events during thecompetition, and had the time of his life.“Winning the Chairman’s Cup is great,”Corporal Sketch said. “I cannot wait untilnext year.”The games’ top individual honor, theUltimate Champion award, went to Navy PettyOfficer 1st Class Daniel Hathorn, a naval specialwarfare boat operator who was hit by atruck driven by a local national during anoverseas deployment last year. He nudged outArmy Pfc. Robert Nuss by a single point.Petty Officer Hathorn won gold in the 50-meter freestyle and the 1,500-meter track. Healso won a bronze as part of the Navy’s 200-meter relay swim.“This is incredible,” he said of his award.“There are so many great athletes in this roomwho’ve performed on a number of differentlevels, and to be holding this is an honor.”Petty Officer Hathorn reflected on the pastyear since his injury. It’s almost unbelievable,he said, to be performing in such a way aftersuffering several broken bones on the left sideof his body. He also had two collapsed lungs.He doesn’t have the use of his left arm andhand, either, he said.The games are a joint venture of theDefense Department, the U.S. OlympicCommittee and the USO.SportsBRIEFSMini-biathlonA mini-biathlon takesplace Saturday at 7:30a.m. at Eberle Park. Theevent starts with a 10-mile bike ride followed bya 5K run.Children are welcometo participate in the children’smini-biathlonevents of a 3-mile bikeride and 1-mile run.Golf tournamentThe Randolph Oaks GolfCourse hosts a golf tournamentMay 28 at 7:30 a.m.in honor of Chief MasterSgt. Vance Clark’s retirementas Air ForceRecruiting Service commandchief. The cost is $35per person and includesgolf and lunch.All proceeds will benefitthe Recruiters AlumniAssociation’s effort to builda monument in AirmanHeritage Park.To register, e-mailMaster Sgt. Chris Tomberlinat christopher.tomberlin@us.af.mil.Junior golf clinicRandolph Oaks GolfCourse is conducting aJunior Golf Clinic for youth,ages 8-14, June 14-18 from8 a.m. to noon each day. Thecost is $50 for youth withclubs or $125 for youth thatneed clubs. Call Clay at652-4653 for details.Women’s leagueThose interested in playingin a Women’s 9-HoleGolf League on Tuesdays at5:30 p.m. can call TroyGann at 652-4653.

MAY 21, 2010WINGSPREADPAGE 19Second Annual Military City USA 5K Run/WalkThe 32nd Medical Brigade is hosting the secondannual Military City USA 5K Run/Walk Saturday at FortSam Houston’s MacArthur Parade Field. Check in isfrom 6-7:15 a.m.The event is designed to draw individual runners inthe San Antonio area and teams from all branches ofthe armed forces for camaraderie and spirited competition.The Military City USA 5K Run/Walk targets theparticipation of all commands throughout theDepartment of Defense.The race offers many ways to participate. Alongwith the traditional 5K race / fun run or walk, therewill be team events and prizes awarded for style andesprit de corps. The event also features food booths,a live band and a DJ.For race information, call John Purnell at 385-8248or e-mail runaway_club@yahoo.com for a registrationform. For teams information, call Capt. Lovie Mathisat 221-5285, 221-3510 or e-mail Captain Mathis atlovie.mathis@us.army.mil.The Randolph Air Force Base Rambler Fitness Center Memorial Dayhours are from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For details on classes, call 652-2955.