85th Group stands down Suite 5 Suite 5 85th ... - RAF Lakenheath

Vol. 33 No. 25 FRIDAY, JUNE 30, 2006RAF LAKENHEATH, UK www.lakenheath.af.mil85th Groupstands down55 years of presence in Icelandcomes to an endSuite 5Improving andenhancing the F-15EPLUS: Blotter 48th OG CoC ECSC

AT AGLANCEJET 48 Vol. 33 No. 25Friday, June 30, 2006“Anywhere, Anytime ...Whatever needs done.”Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel48th Fighter Wing commanderCapt. Beth Kelley HorinePublic affairs chiefTech. Sgt. Renee KirklandPublic affairs NCOICSenior Airman Vanessa YoungInternal information chiefJET 48 STAFFSenior Airman Eric DonnerEditorAirman 1st Class Michael HessStaff writerThe U.S. Navy Blue Angels’ F/A-18Hornets park on the ramps at RAFLakenheath. The Blue Angels madea overnight pit-stop here June 21.COMMANDERS’FORUM4 Celebrating our freedom7LOCAL NEWS810USAFE leaders send Independence Day messageFun in the sun; Liberty achievementsSpouses come together to give back to the communityJET48 SPOTLIGHTPhoto by Tech. Sgt Sabrina JohnsonHOW TO REACH USSubmissionsEmail: jet.48@lakenheath.af.milDSN: (314) 226-2151Fax: 011 44+(1638) 525637Phone: 011 44+(1638) 522151Editorial office: Jet 48, Unit 5210 Box 215, APO AE 09461All correspondence should include the writer’s full name, addressand telephone number and may be edited for clarity and space.Deadline for submissions to the Jet 48: Noon Wednesday, 10 days prior to publication Noon Monday prior to publication for weekendevents with advance notice to editor the weekprior.Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the publicaffairs office of the 48th Fighter Wing. All photographs are Air Forcephotos unless otherwise indicated. The public affairs office reservesthe right to edit all material submitted for publication.48th Fighter Wing Public AffairsMail: 48FW/PA, Unit 5210 Box 215, APO AE 09461Email: 48fw.pa@lakenheath.af.milPhone: 011 44+(1638) 522151AdvertisingFor advertising rates and information, call011 44+(1295) 73867411 Public affairs NCO takes Air Force awardFEATURES12-13 85th GP stands down14SPORTS18COMMUNITY212248th OG change of commandLOCAL NEWS17 Liberty Wing jets receive high tech overhaul352nd OSS takes down 48th CES B in intramural softballDiscover Britain: The flags of the U.K.Community briefsThe Jet 48 is published by Forest Publishing (E.A.) Ltd., a private firm inno way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contractwith the 48th Fighter Wing. This civilian enterprise Air Force newspaper isan authorized publication for members of the U.S. military servicesoverseas. Contents of the Jet 48 are not necessarily the views of, orendorsed by, the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, or theDepartment of the Air Force. The appearance of advertising in thispublication, including inserts or supplements, does not constituteendorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the AirForce or Forest Publishing (E.A.) Ltd., of the products or servicesadvertised. Everything advertised in this publication shall be madeavailable for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color,religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, politicalaffiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.Last DUI: 3:05 a.m. June 2Squadron: 48th Munitions SquadronDUI condition: GREENdui statisticsCourtesy of the 48th Fighter Wing Safety OfficeAADD Hours: 10 p.m. to6 a.m. Thursdays throughSaturdays and Sundayson three-day weekends.Call 226-4800 or (08003)280 178.ON THE COVER: RAF Lakenheath celebrates Independence Day(Graphic by Airman 1st Class Shawn Gingrich)JUNE 30, 2006JET 48 MAGAZINE PAGE 3

CommandersForumCelebrating Our FreedomBy Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel48th Fighter Wing Commander“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are createdequal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienableRights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit ofHappiness.”On July 4, 1776, our forefathers declared the United States ofAmerica a free and independent country. The Declaration ofIndependence is not only a statement of freedom, it is a documenteach and every one of us in service should hold dear. These wordsdeclare the duty we were sworn to do.As military members, part of our job is to ensure our country isnot stripped of the rights given by our forefathers. We help ensureAmericans have the opportunity to live freely and safely.As you take time this long Independence Day weekend to relaxand celebrate our country’s independence, also take some time toreflect on the sacrifices our forefathers, and those before us, made toACTION LINEprotect the rights and freedoms we, as Americans, stand for.Remember the Soldiers, Marines and Airmen who are drivingconvoys in Iraq, while seperated from their loved ones. Rememberour brothers and sisters living in harms way paying the price forfreedom. Remember those we have lost defending our great nation.Just as important as remembering our deployed servicemembersthis holiday week, is remembering to take care of ourselves and protectAmerica’s greatest asset—each other.I want everyone to enjoy themselves and have a great time celebratingour nation’s birth, but if you’re going to drink, do it responsibly.Have a plan and stick to it. Utilize the Liberty Wing’s ProjectZOT and Wingman programs to ensure we all come back to workhealthy on July 5. I am proud of our current DUI track record—we’ve decreased our wing DUI rate last year by almost 50 percent.It is because we have smart Airmen making smart decisions.Thanks to all of you who already celebrate safely. Keep it goingthis holiday weekend and keep the spirit our forefathers inspired bywriting the Declaration of Independence 230 years ago with yourcontinued dedicated service to our nation.The Action Line is your direct link to me for complaints, suggestions or comments. It’s not intended to replace the chainof command. When normal command agency channels haven’t been able to resolve your concerns, call 226-2324, fax 226-5637, e-mail (Action.Line@lakenheath.af.mil), send through distribution (48 FW/PA), mail (48FW/PA, Unit 5210 Box 215APO AE 09461-0215) or hand carry your Action Line to the public affairs office (Building 1085). You may remain anonymous;however, to receive a reply, please leave your name, unit, duty or home phone number and full APO mailing address.Names are confidential.Q:occurrence they get a four day weekend every time there is a holiday,My concern is our weekends here at RAF Lakenheath comparedto Mildenhall. As you know we were DUI free for 80-plus days andare in condition green. Also, we are consistently meeting our monthlysortie goals. I appreciated the three-day Memorial Day weekend,but Mildenhall had a four-day weekend. It seems to be a commonwhile Lakenheath gets the normal two-day or rarely a three-dayweekend. For example, this past Easter we had training days onFriday and the following Monday, while Mildenhall had a four-dayweekend. Also, the maintenance group had a day off recently but therest of the base had to work, leaving lots of shops with no work to do,but still having to be on duty. This has been a real morale killer in myshop and many others. The number one thing that could boost moraleis time-off, compared to any other sort of event.A:– consistently meeting our flying goals.Thank you for bringing this issue to light as I’m sure you are notthe only person with this question. First, I am very proud of ourwing’s efforts to curb DUIs, resulting in a 48 percent decrease inthese incidents during the last year. Second, I am also very proud ofour ability to accomplish our demanding mission day in and day outThat said, although we have much in common with our friends atRAF Mildenhall, we have two distinct missions; so, there will betimes we do not have the same down days. It’s this difference in missionthat dictates the time off we are able to take, which is why youmay see Team Liberty on duty while Team Mildenhall is off or viceversa. Although it may appear Mildenhall has a day off, remembertheir airfield never closes. Running a 24/7, 365 days-a-year flight lineoperation is a pace we do not share at RAF Lakenheath. Therefore,when the rest of our two bases have off on weekends and holidays,the RAF Mildenhall air traffic controllers, operators, maintainers andoperations support personnel still must work.Goal days, training days and other “no-fly” days are programmedduring September, before the beginning of the fiscal year. These daysare based on various factors specific to our wing, such as higherheadquarters’ requirements, training, deployments and money. Theyare often on different days from other bases across Europe and the AirForce who may have the day off. Each group tries to compensate withtime off for their units on alternative days if the mission requiresAirmen to work during a holiday weekend. Recently the ops groupand maintenance group took a day off while the rest of the baseworked, as an example.Every Liberty Warrior works hard to make our mission happen.Therefore, it is important we spread valuable down days evenlyacross the wing, so everyone can enjoy time off with family andfriends. I understand there is a natural impact on morale at a basewith such a vigorous operations tempo. For this reason, it is importanteveryone get out and enjoy themselves during the down time wedo have scheduled, and do so in a safe manner.PAGE 4 JET 48 MAGAZINEJUNE 30, 2006

Jet48CommandersForumUSAFE leaders send Independence Day messageRAMSTEIN AIR BASE, Germany (USAFENS) — The following isa joint message from Gen. Tom Hobbins, Commander, U.S. Air Forcesin Europe, and Chief Master Sgt. Gary G. Coleman, USAFE CommandChief Master Sergeant.Every year on this date, we gather with family and friends to commemoratethe anniversary of the signing of our Declaration ofIndependence. We celebrate the men and women who, more than twocenturies ago, took up arms to fight for their freedom. The Fourth ofJuly is a unique holiday—the only one celebrating our nation as awhole. As our nation’s birthday, Independence Day represents, accordingto former President Ronald Reagan, “the birth of patriotism.”The unmatched drive and determination that possessed our foundinggeneration still fuels the American spirit today. Our American militaryhas been called on to serve and sacrifice around the world in the nameof those ideals that first inspired us—hope, human dignity, justice, freedom.Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors, and Marines have been successful inthat service all over the world. Because of their sacrifices, we haveU.S. Air Forces in Europe is charging forwardwith the Air Force initiative to standardizeall Windows-based computers by Dec. 31.This change will provide every USAFE networkuser with a standard PC configurationand enhance network security.Desktop standardization is not new toUSAFE users — USAFE implemented theStandard Integrated Desktop over 24 monthsago. “We have gained significant lessonslearned from our experience that will aide significantlyin this Air Force project, called theStandard Desktop Configuration,” said MasterSgt. Kelly Burkhard, USAFE ComputerSystems Squadron, Section Chief, TechnicalSupport Branch.Although the SDC significantly alters theconfiguration of the computer software, thetransition will be relatively “painless”. Usersmay notice minor changes in the desktop environmentand upgrades to common use applications.Additionally, the SDC will removeadministrative privileges from the normal userand prevent unauthorized downloads,upgrades, and software installations.USAFE SDC implementation goals are: 15percent command-wide by Jul. 31; 70 percentcommand-wide by Sep. 30; 100 percent command-wideby Dec. 31.Users are not required to prepare for SDC;however some precautions are advised. “Weaccomplished major victories in places like Afghanistan, where citizensheld the country’s first democratic presidential election in October2004, and in Iraq, which held free elections in January 2005. Despitethe accomplishments that have been made, much work has yet to bedone.We have approximately 2,100 USAFE Airmen deployed to locationsaround the globe, separated from family and loved ones. Without their,and our, continued commitment to the effort, oppression and violentextremism would go unopposed.How and when our fight against terrorism ends remains to be seen,but our nation’s history proves dedicated warriors are willing to riskeverything to defend freedom.The Fourth of July has become a family day. As you enjoy the summeractivities, stay safe and watch out for one another. Revel in thetime you spend together with loved ones, and remember that it wasbought at great cost, and that we continue to pay the price to ensurefreedom’s future.AF Standard Desktop Configuration approaches USAFE network usersby Capt Jennifer LovettUSAFE News Servicerecommend network users ensure all data toinclude .pst files be stored within “MyDocuments” in user profiles and create a backup,” said Sergeant Burkhard.Immediate manual installs of the SDC will berequired for workstations that are currentlyexempt from the USAFE SID where exemptapplications are compatible with the SDC.USAFE is engineering an automated tool to beused for all other workstations. This tool will runafter duty hours. Affected users will be notifiedin advance to allow time for backing up data.AF information technology officials saidall Air Force bases should be operating withSDC by December.For more information on AF SDC, go tohttps://afecmo.gunter.af.mil/.Safety Snapshots4th of JulyImpacting Work:Fireworks displays - commercial fireworks are extremely hazardous, evenin the hands of trained experts. Air Force personnel, on- or off-duty, must nottake part in the transportation, storage, setup or functioning of commercialfireworks for on-base fireworks displays.REF: AFMAN91-201Hitting Home:The July 4 celebrations are coming. Treat all fireworks with extreme caution.If enjoying fireworks at home, remember that fireworks are dangerous andshould only be handled by an adult. Ensure fireworks have completely expendedbefore approaching. Follow all manufacturers’ instructions and safety precautions.Courtesy graphicJUNE 30, 2006PAGE 7 JET 48 MAGAZINE

Jet48NewsVolunteers ensure students enjoyfun in the sunLibertySFS blotterThe 48th Security Forces Squadronhandled the following incidents fromJune 19 to June 24.Property loss, damage or theftJune 19: An officer was involved ina minor vehicle accident in the parkinglot of the hospital.June 19: An NCO reported havinga bicycle stolen from his home inAnglo housing.June 19: A family member wasinvolved in a minor vehicle accidenton Norwich Road adjacent to theLakenheath Intermediate School.June 20: An Airman was involvedin a minor vehicle accident in the parkinglot of the base exchange.June 20: An NCO was involved ina minor vehicle accident in front ofPAS 47.June 20: An Airman was involvedin a minor vehicle accident in the postoffice parking lot.Patrol responseJune 22: Several Airmen wereapprehended after getting into an altercationand breaking a window in thedayroom of Dormitory 946.AssaultJune 24: Two NCO’s were apprehendedfor assault after getting into analtercation in the Liberty Club.If you have any information concerningany incident, call the securityforces control center at 226-2333 or(01638) 522 333 or 226-4800 or yourfirst sergeant. For an emergency onbase call 911 and for an emergency offbase call 999.By Tech. Sgt. Renee Kirkland48th Fighter Wing Public AffairsMore than 300 students arrived at St.Ivo’s Leisure Centre in St. Ives,Cambrideshire June 16 in coaches, cars andvans to compete in the 2006, Youth GamesPlus Cambridgeshire and Peterborough.The games were an opportunity for specialneeds youth to socialize and compete inathletic events. Events included the 60meter dash, the long jump, javelin, tennis,football, basketball and cricket.Volunteers came from Cambridge,Peterborough, RAF Lakenheath and otherlocations to make the day special for thestudents. The volunteers acted as eventfacilitators, time keepers and parking attendants.“It was an opportunity to get out of theoffice and also do something meaningful,”said Capt. Alexander Basco, 48thContracting Squadron, who coordinated thelong jump competition.While some of the volunteers workedwith familiar sports, some had to learn theuniquely-English sports quickly. Tech. Sgt.Congratulations to all the airmen firstclass selected for promotion to seniorairman below the zone.932nd Air Control SquadronScott E. AlbertsonWallis Payano48th Aircraft Maintenance SquadronDavid M. BetkaEva P. SanchezMichael S. DodgeRobert A. HallAshley N. RamirezSeth T. Pence48th Component MaintenanceSquadronGerry R. JaramilloJason R. Stevenson48th Munitions SquadronJaclyn L. VarelaSeth J. Roberts48th Communications SquadronShawn T. GingrichAnne Tomlin volunteered to work Bocciaand Staff Sgt. Johanna Henderson volunteeredat the netball event.Although they weren’t experts on therules of the games, what the vounteers hadwas enthusiasm for their work. Some, likeMaster Sgt. Floyd Kirkland, even got toplay.“We taught the competitors some basketballskills for the first half of the day andthen coached them through the games in theafternoon,” said Sergeant Kirkland. “It wasrewarding to see the intense concentrationon the children’s faces as they worked toget the mechanics down.”The children ran, screamed, jumped inexcitement during their time at the youthgames and hugged the volunteers as theyreceived their medals and said goodbye.The 48th Contracting Squadron contributedeight volunteers for the event. Thisis just one of the many volunteer opportunitiesavailable in the local community.Volunteers are also needed on base.Members wishing to give something back totheir communities should contact the RAFLakenheath Family Support Center,Enlisted and Civilian Spouses Club, theAmerican Red Cross or the base chapel.48th Civil Engineer SquadronAmber N. Moore48th Logistics ReadinessSquadronDiane TrevizoMichael R. J. Ouellette48th Security Forces SquadronBobby R. BunchJamie T. ClinardJared R. Nutt48th Services SquadronMellonie A. Jones48th Medical Support SquadronAndrew J. SatterfieldCorinne L. HallChrystal J. BenningCongratulations to 1st Lt. JosephSolghan 48th Medical OperationsSupport Squadron, on his selectionfor captain.JET 48 MAGAZINE PAGE 8JUNE 30, 2006

Jet48NewsSpouses come together to give backBy Senior Airman Wes Auldridge48th Fighter Wing Public AffairsThe Enlisted and Civilian Spouses Club is a non-profit privateorganization committed to improving the quality of life for Airmen,civilians and dependents here.Supporting the community is the key to the success of ECSC,said Jessica McCollum, ECSC spokesperson.“Each year the Lakenheath ECSC donates about $26,000 to bothon- and off-base organizations,” said Mrs. McCollum. “We have anumber of fundraisers each year. Our biggest fundraiser is theLakenheath Holiday Bazaar, which is a joint effort between theECSC and the Officer and Civilian Spouses Club.”Mrs. McCollum said planning for the bazaar begins in March andlasts through October. This year’s bazaar is Sept. 29 and 30, andOct. 1 in Hangar 7 and the paint barn.This year the United States of America celebrates 230 years since thesigning of the Declaration of Independence and the birth of democracythroughout the U.S.Each year on July 4, flags are flown with pride, the air smells of barbecueand the night sky is filled with fireworks. Each year, RAF’sLakenheath and Mildenhall unite and open the gates at RAF Feltwell forAmericans and local British to celebrate.Like last year, the celebration is July 3. A fun run kicks the day off at10 a.m., and the gates will be open to the public from noon to midnight.From noon to midnight, visitors can enjoy carnival rides, live music,softball games, a car show and a fireworks demonstration. According toWayne Crockett, 48th Services Squadron event coordinator, more children’sactivities and family events are expected this year then the previousyears.Also, 24 private organizations have signed-up to sell a variety of fooditems.“This year’s cuisine lists everything from Filipino to Mexican delights,shish kabobs, chicken wings, Frito pies and the American IndependenceDay favorites -- hamburgers, hot dogs, cotton candy and popcorn,” saidSteve Adkins, 100th Services Squadron, private organization food booth“Our organization is also involved in planning many of the events atLakenheath such as the Air Force Ball, and the annual awards banquet,”she said.Although the club stays busy with its volunteer events, Mrs.McCollum said the support structure is what makes the club so great.“Whether you are new to the base or have been here a while, theECSC has a fantastic support system with a wide range of members,”she said. “As a member, you can enjoy our socials for free, attend tripsat a reduced cost and join sub-groups such as bowling. We even pay forchildcare for all activities that our members participate in on behalf ofthe ECSC.”One of the other programs run by the ECSC is the thrift shop locatedbetween the officers club and Electric Avenue. The thrift shop is openMonday and Friday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., and Wednesday, 1 to 6 p.m.For more information on meeting, socials, events or volunteeractivites, e-mail raflecsc@yahoo.com.RAF’s celebrate 230 years of independenceBy Verla D. Davis48th Fighter Wing Public AffairsIndependence holiday hourscoordinator. Squadron shirts, coins and other memorabilia will also beavailable.”Last year, more than 22,000 Americans and local British citizensattended the event and more are expected this year. Due to the expectednumber of visitors, shuttle bus service will be provided.Shuttle buses will run every 30 minutes, beginning at 9:30 a.m., fromthe base hospital at RAF Lakenheath and from the recreation center atRAF Mildenhall with the last pick up from Bird View at RAF Feltwell at12:25 a.m.Everyone is encouraged to come out and celebrate 230 years of democracyin the U.S. “You are sure to have loads of fun during this holiday celebration,”said Mr. Crockett.The following contraband is not allowed on RAFFeltwell during the Independence Day celebrationBackpacks, coolers,Weapons, knives and firearmsObjects that fire a projectileBlunt force objectsDrugs and alcoholPotential explosive materialNote: This is not an all inclusive list.Security Forces and Ministry of DefencePolice may restrict items not conduciveto safety, security and publicorder. Security Forces will conductsearches of all hand carried items.MondayLounges will be open from 2 to 9 p.m.Fitness center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.Lodging will be open 24 hoursKnight’s Table will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.,3:30 to 5:30 p.m.Library will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.Great Little Pizza Place will be open from 12 to 9 p.m.Information, Tickets and Travel will be open from 10 a.m.to 1 p.m.Electric Avenue will be open from 12 to 5 p.m.Golf Pro Shop will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Golf grill will be open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.Liberty Lanes will be open from 12 to 8 p.m.Liberty Lanes Grill will be open from 12 to 9 p.m.Arts & Crafts will be closedOutdoor Recreation will be closed48th Ave will be closedFreedom Café will be closedCashiers cage will be closedEagles Landing will be closedPinkerton’s will be closedSatellite Dish will be closedVet Clinic will be closed48th Street Café will be closedVAT will be closedWood Crafts will be closedTuesdayArts & Crafts will be closedOutdoor Recreation will be closed48th Ave will be open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.Lounges will be open from 2 to 9 p.m.Freedom Café will be open from 12 to 9 p.m.Fitness center will be open from 8 a.m. to 8 p.m.Lodging will be open from open 24 hoursKnight’s Table will be open from 7:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.,3:30 to 5:30 p.m.Library will be open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.Great Little Pizza Place will be open from 12 to 9 p.m.Information, Tickets and Travel will be closedYouth center will be closedChild Development Center East will be closedChild Development Center West will be closedElectric Avenue will be open from 12 to 5 p.m.Golf Pro Shop will be open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.Golf grill will be open from 7 a.m. to 2 p.m.Liberty Lanes will be open from 12 to 8 p.m.Liberty Lanes Grill will be open from 12 to 9 p.m.Cashiers cage will be open from 12 to 5:30 p.m.Eagles Landing will be closedPinkerton’s will be closedSatellite Dish will be closedVet Clinic will be closed48th Street Café will be closedVAT will be closedWood Crafts will be closedPAGE 10 JET 48 MAGAZINE JUNE 30, 2006

Jet48SpotlightTech. Sgt. Renee Kirklandhoto by Tech. Sgt Sabrina Johnson48thFighter Wing[ the basics ]Hometown: Trenton, N.J.Time at RAF Lakenheath:11 monthsTime in the Air Force:21 years, 3 monthsDuty title: Public Affairs,NCOICHobbies: Reading, writingand crochetingWhy does Tech. Sgt. Kirklanddeserve to be spotlighted in the Jet48?“It’s about time Tech. Sgt. Kirkland wasrecognized for the outstanding work she doesin the public affairs career field. The Air ForcePublic Affairs Non-commissioned of the Yearaward coupled with the selection for mastersergeant reiterates the fact she is an outstandingNCO.”Capt. Beth Horine48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs, chiefHow does it feel to be selected thewing level Air Force Public AffairsNCO of the Year?I feel very honored. I try to do the bestthat I can every day no matter what projectscome my way and it is nice to know that myefforts are appreciated.Photo by Senior Airman Eric DonnerWhat makes an AF award winningNCO?The people they work with make everyNCO a success. If the people you work withdon’t respect you, then it inhibits theamount of work the office can accomplishand thereby affects what you accomplish.What’s the most exciting experienceyou’ve had in the Air Force?I guess witnessing the first ever democraticIraqi elections in Baghdad. Seeingfirst hand exactly what we are fighting forand the way we can make a difference in thelives of others is exciting.What is your greatest achievement?In my personal life – being a mother. Inmy professional life – winning this awardand most importantly, making master sergeant.JUNE 30, 2006JET 48 MAGAZINE PAGE 11

Jet48FeatureRest comes to the“Guardians of the North”By Staff Sgt. Nicholasa Reed48th Fighter Wing Public AffairsThe 85th Group, a tenant unit at Naval Air Station, Keflavik, Iceland,marked 55 years of heritage and cooperation during an inactivation ceremonythere Wednesday.“From fighters to helicopters, AWACS to tankers, NAS Keflavik hasseen almost every aircraft in the U.S. Air Force inventory transitionthrough here over the years,” said Brig. Gen. Robert Steel, 48th FighterWing commander.During the ceremony, Col. Phillip Gibbons, 85th Group commander,relinquished command and encased the group colors.The 85th Group, which was aligned under the 48th Fighter Wing, consistedof seven squadrons and more than 1,300 people. The group wasresponsible for day-to-day flight operations of HH-60 helicopters, KC-130tankers and F-15 fighter jets.The U.S. military presence in the country began in 1941 at the requestof the Government of Iceland fearing an invasion by Germany. At the endof the war U.S. forces withdrew.In 1949, Iceland became a member of the North Atlantic TreatyOrganization and U.S. forces returned.The Air Force group survived growing pains such as designation andairframe changes, including the transition from the Army Air Corps to theU.S. Navy assumption of control and more.Another success came on December 7, 2001 when the 56th RescueSquadron was credited with completing their 70th life-saving mission duringtheir 14 months in Iceland. Members of the squadron responded to adistress call from an Icelandic fishing vessel that lost power in gale forcewinds and heavy seas.Pararescueman Staff Sgt. Jay Lane was presented with the Gold Medal ofValor of the Republic of Iceland for his actions during the rescue, making himthe first receipt of the gold level of the award.From 1971 to April 2003 the RQS made 308 saves during rescue operations.The group’s rescue operations were not just confined to Iceland. Threehelicopters and more than 60 personnel deployed to Sierra Leone, Africa inJuly 2003 in support of Joint Task Force Liberia. The RQS once againsaved lives by extracting personnel from the U.S. Embassy there and providinga peacekeeping presence over the city of Monrovia during civilunrest.Wednesday’s inactivation ceremony commemorated the rich history ofthe group and positive relationship with the host nation and the U.S. AirForce.File photoPAGE 12JET 48 MAGAZINEJUNE 30, 2006 JET 48 MAGAZINE PAGE 13

Jet48News48th OGwelcomes new CCBy Senior Airman Eric DonnerEditorCol. G. Arthur McGettrick accepted commandof the 48th Operations Group from Col. KentLaughbaum here during a ceremony Thursday.More than 200 supporters, family membersand friends came out to watch the change of command,which included formations from each operationssquadron.Brig. Gen. Robert P. Steel, 48th Fighter Wingcommander, welcomed Team Liberty’s newest operationsgroup leader and his family to Lakenheath.“I’m excited to welcome Colonel McGettrick, avery highly experienced individual, who is sure to dooutstanding work for this wing,” said General Steel.Colonel McGettrick comes to RAF Lakenheathafter a year of studying at the National WarCollege in Washington D.C., where he receivedhis masters in national security strategy.“Loni and I are thrilled and honored to be part ofthe Liberty Wing team. We look forward to servingwith everyone here at RAF Lakenheath and buildingon the heritage and successes that have made thiswing the most lethal and respected combat wing inthe Air Force,” said Colonel McGettrick.Colonel Laughbaum will be taking commandof the 355th Wing at Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz.“Command of the 48th Operations Group, particularlyduring this time of war, has been thehighlight of my time in service to the UnitedStates,” said Colonel Laughbaum. “I cannot fullyexpress my gratitude to the incredible men andwomen in service to America here at RAFLakenheath. You are a great generation of patriots,equal to any in our noble history. I ask that Godbless you all, and that He continue to bless ourbeloved country.”Farewell Colonel LaughbaumCol. G. Arthur McGettrickPhoto by Airman Jessica SnowCol. Kent Laughbaum, 48th Operations Group commander, gets soaked by his daughter after his final flight, June 21.Colonel Laughbaum relinquished command in a ceremony Thursday to Col. G. Arthur McGettrick.JET 48 MAGAZINE PAGE 14 JUNE 30, 2006

When aircraft launch from the rain-soakedBritish Isles in September on their eastwardjourney to support Operations Iraqi andEnduring Freedom, they will be fitted with themost advanced avionics and carry the mostaccurate, lethal weapons in the Air Forceinventory.The Liberty Wing takes the AF lead withnew Advanced Display Core Processors, Suite5 software, improved Link 16 imagery andexpanded munition capabilities on all deployingaircraft.The overhaul is no small feat. “Fourteencivilian contractors work in 24 hour shiftsSunday through Friday to prepare the aircraftto deploy,” said Capt. Ken Sumler, 48thMaintenance Operation Squadron,Maintenance Operations Flight commander.Jet48NewsLiberty Wing jets receive high tech overhaulBy Airman 1st Class Michael Hess48th Fighter Wing Public Affairs officeSuite 5 and the Advanced DisplayCore ProcessorsEach modification increases combat effectiveness,though all are linked to the hardwaresoftwarecombination of Suite 5 and theAdvanced Display Core Processors.“You can think of it like a home computer.The hardware, the ADCP, is the processor. Youcan’t run high-end software on a system thatcan’t support it. You can’t run Windows XP ona computer that’s running off a 233 megahertzprocessor. You need something with morepower, the ADCP offers that,” said Master Sgt.Bryon Parsons, wing avionics manager.The aircraft performs many of the samefunctions that it did before, though now it doesthem better.Link-16 imagery softwareThe Link-16 system, previously installed onthe aircraft, was never used to full potential.Link-16 technology displays a wireframeimage of an area including simple symbols thatrepresent friend or foe. The system not onlyshows real-time location, but communicatesvia wireless data transfer with the friendlyblips to display their individual fuel and armamentloads.“Link 16 has incredible tactical capability.A ground force or AWACS can reach out to agroup of aircraft orbiting the area withoutusing radio and task them with a mission. Theflight lead, based on their mission load, fueland armaments, respond by pushing one of twobuttons to select - ‘No go’ or ‘Wilco’ (willcomply), which is transmitted back to theAWACS or ground force personnel,” saidSergeant Parsons.The system has always been able to functionas a tactical and strategic tool. Now, withthe new processor speed and software, it canlink with an orbiting Predator, AWACS orground troop and receive mission-criticalimagery while a mission is underway.“Even if a target changes positions whilewe are in the air, someone on the ground canradio or send images to us and we can adjustthe mission accordingly,” said Capt. JosephSiberski, 494th Fighter Squadron wingweapons and tactics project officer.“This is an enormous advancement to theprogram,” said Sergeant Parsons.Advanced targeting podIn January 2005, technicians fitted LibertyWing aircraft with an advanced targeting pod,which gave aircrew members the ability todesignate a target, transmit geospatial coordinatesto the weapon systems.“The advanced targeting pods have addedphenomenal capabilities to our tactical missions,”said Lt. Col. James McGovern, 492ndFighter Squadron commander, in September2005, when his squadron received the pod.Even this system gets an improvement fromSuite 5.“The new targeting pod is a major advancement.The pod uses the LANTIRN targetingsystem display and has its own symbolism,which simply laid over the old system symbolism,causing unnecessary clutter. Suite 5 wasspecifically programmed to incorporateadvanced targeting pod data into the aircraftsensor suite. . Everything on the aircraft nowspeaks the same language,” said SergeantParsons.Suite 5 and the ADCP make all the componentsfaster and able to handle smarterFile photoweapons, which is primary purpose for thedevelopments.“These modifications will help us directlysupport ground operations in Iraqi andEnduring Freedom as we provide close air supportfor conventional and special operations,”said Captain Siberski.The first modified F-15E Strike Eagle inoperational use was overhauled in January aspart of the initial validation-verificationprocess, which ensures the plans on the papermatch properly with the materials and tools inthe modification kits. While the first aircraftwas modified, aircrew members trained at the422nd Test and Evaluation Squadron at NellisAir Force Base, Nev., to learn the new systems.“The authorization for us to modify and flythe new software suite was just released. Thetest community has been working on Suite 5for years now,” said Captain Siberski.The pieces of the puzzle will fit together inSeptember when the 494th FS deploy with themodified aircraft, trained aircrew andimproved weapons.When the aircraft scream off the runwaywith their high-tech overhaul, they will be,quite literally, the most capable F-15E StrikeEagle force in the world with more coming upbehind it.“We plan to have our entire inventory of F-15Es upgraded with Suite 5, starting with the494th Fighter Squadron, which will deploy andthen we will install the same capability in the492nd FS,” said Sergeant Parsons.When the time comes, the squadron will befully capable, followed by the rest of the AirForce as each F-15 squadron across the AirForce prepares to deploy with enhancements.JUNE 30, 2006 JET 48 MAGAZINE PAGE 17

Jet48Health and Fitness352 OSS takesdown 48 CES BRyan Watkins, 48 CES B’s first baseman,looks for the ball as he runs home duringtheir match up against the 352ndOperations Support Squadron, RAFMildenhall, here Tuesday.Photos by Senior Airman Vanessa YoungThe 48th Civil Engineer Squadron intramural softball B team’s third baseman, David Moats,reaches to field a ball during their game versus the 352nd Operations Support Squadron,RAF Mildenhall, here Tuesday. The 352 OSS beat the 48 CES B, 18-8.american leaguesoftballnational leaguelakenheathintramuralsportsschedulesWednesdayField 15:30 p.m. 95 RS vs. 48 SFS B6:30 p.m. 48 MDG A vs. 48 CS7:30 p.m. 352 MXG B vs. 100 CES8:30 p.m. 492 FS A vs. 48 SFS BField 25:30 p.m. 48 CMS B vs. 48 AMXS B6:30 p.m. 352 SOG B vs. 100 SVS7:30 p.m. 48 CES A vs. 48 MDG BThursdayField 15:30 p.m. 352 vs. 48 SFS A6:30 p.m. 48 AMXS vs. 352 MXG A7:30 p.m. 727 AMS vs. 100 LRS8:30 p.m. 48 CES B vs. DET. 4Field 25:30 p.m. 48 MOS vs. 48 LRS A6:30 p.m. 48 MUNS B vs. 100 SFSInformation provided by the Fitness center.For more information, contact 226-3607.JET 48 MAGAZINE PAGE 18JUNE 30, 2006

By Sal Davidson – Community Relations AdviserFlags of the United KingdomOur present-day national flag is a combination of the flags of St.George of England, St. Andrew of Scotland, and St. Patrick ofIreland, but it has taken a few centuries and some changes to reachthe final version.Origin of FlagsThe word “flag” is derived from the old Saxon or Germanicword “fflaken” or “ffloegan” meaning to fly or float in the wind. Aflag usually flies from a vertical staff or mast, whereas a banner isflown from a horizontal bar.The Union FlagThe Union Flag is the national flag of the United Kingdom. Thecountries that make up the United Kingdom are England, Scotland,Wales and Northern Ireland. The Union Flag was first introduced on1606 and it was known simply as the Flag of Britain.England is represented by the flag of St George:In 1194 A.D., Richard I of Englandintroduced the Cross of St. George, a redcross on a white ground, as the nationalflag of England until James I succeeded tothe throne in 1603.St George:St. George was born in Cappadocia (now Eastern Turkey) in theyear 270 A.D. He was a Christian. At the age of seventeen, hejoined the Roman army and soon became renowned for his bravery.He served under a pagan Emperor, but never forgot his Christianfaith.The Emperor Diocletian gave him many important missions, andit is thought that on one of these he came to England. It was whilehe was in England that he heard the Emperor was putting allChristians to death and so he returned to Rome to help his brotherChristians. He pleaded with the Emperor to spare their lives.Diocletian did all he could to persuade St. George to give up hisfaith, but he refused and was finally beheaded April 23, 303.Around 1000 years later, St. George became England’s patronsaint replacing Edward the Confessor. In April 23, 1415 was made anational feast day.Scotland is represented by the flag of St. Andrew:When King James VI of Scotland becameKing James I of England a new flag combiningthe white on blue cross of St Andrew,with the red cross of St George, was adoptedby the Royal Navy and christened the “ TheUnion” in 1707.St Andrew:Very little is really known about St. Andrew himself. He wasthought to have been a fisherman in Galilee, along with his elderbrother Simon Peter (Saint Peter). Both became followers, apostlesof Jesus Christ, founder of the Christian religion.St. Andrew’s is said to have been responsible for spreading thetenets of the Christian religion though Asia Minor and Greece.Tradition suggests that St. Andrew was put to death by the Romansin Patras, Southern Greece by being pinned to a cross (crucified).The diagonal shape of this cross is said to be the basis for the Crossof St. Andrew which appears on the Scottish Flag.St. Andrew’s bones were entombed, and around 300 years laterwere moved by Emperor Constantine to his new capitalConstantinople (now Istanbul in Turkey). Legend suggests that aGreek Monk called St. Regulus was warned in a dream that St.Andrew’s remains were to be moved and was directed by an angelto take those of the remains which he could to the “ends of theearth” for safe-keeping.St. Regulus dutifully followed these directions, removing atooth, an arm bone, a kneecap and some fingers from St. Andrew’stomb and transporting these as far away as he could. Scotland wasclose to the extremities of the know world at that time and it washere that St. Regulus was shipwrecked with his precious cargo.St. Regulus is said to have come ashore at a Pictish settlement onthe East Coast of Scotland and this later became St. Andrews. Thusthe association of St. Andrew with Scotland was said to have begun.Ireland is represented by the flag of St. Patrick:In 1801, after the union with Ireland,King George III added the cross of St.Patrick to the Union flag, to make theUnion Flag we have today. The formationof the flag came about as the result of theprogressive merging of the inhabitants ofthe British Isles under one throne.Why doesn’t the Welsh dragon appear on the Union Flag?The Welsh dragon does not appear on theflag because when the first Union Flag wascreated in 1606, Wales was already unitedwith England. Wales was conquered byEngland in the 13th Century. In 1536, underHenry VIII, the Act of Union joinedEngland and Wales officially. ThereforeWales is represented by the English Flag instead of the Welsh dragon.The Union Jack:The Union Flag is often referred to, incorrectly,as the Union Jack. It is possible that“The Union” flag became known as the“Union Jack,” because of the flag being flownon a jackstaff, a small flag pole on the back ofa naval ship.JUNE 30, 2006PAGE 21 JET 48 MAGAZINE

Jet48CommunityMoviesRAF Lakenheath 226-2139Today6:30 p.m. The Wild, G, starring Kiefer Sutherland andEddie Izzard. In this computer-animated comedy-adventure,an assortment of animals from the New York Zoo -including a lion, a giraffe, an anaconda, a koala, and asquirrel - discover what a jungle the city can be when oneof their own is mistakenly shipped to the wild and theyembark on a dangerous mission to rescue him.9 p.m. The Wild, G.Saturday12 p.m. The Wild, G.2 p.m. The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift, PG-13,starring Lucas Black and Shad ‘Bow Wow’ Gregory Moss.Sean Boswell is an outsider who attempts to define himselfas a hot-headed, underdogstreet racer. Although racingprovides a temporaryescape from an unhappyhome and the superficialworld around him, it hasalso made Sean unpopularwith the local authorities.To avoid jail time, Sean issent to live with his gruff,estranged father, a careermilitary-man stationed inTokyo.4:30 p.m. Scary Movie 4,PG-13, starring MollyShannon and Anna Faris.The Scary Movie gang isback with send-ups of “WarCourtesy graphicof the Worlds,” “TheGrudge,” “The Village,” “Saw” and “Saw II,” “Million DollarBaby” and much more. Legendary comedy director DavidZucker (“Airplane!,” the “Naked Gun” franchise, “ScaryMovie 3,” and “Ruthless People”) and producer Bob Weissreunite to take aim at some of the best fright films, the latestbox office hits, music, current events, pop culture, andyour favorite celebrities.Sunday2 p.m. The Wild, G.Monday6:30 p.m. Scary Movie 4, PG-13.Tuesday6:30 p.m. The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift, PG-13.Wednesday6:30 p.m. The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift, PG-13.Thursday6:30 p.m. The Fast and The Furious: Tokyo Drift, PG-13.RAF Mildenhall 238-4955Today6:30 p.m. The Wild, G.9 p.m. Scary Movie 4, PG-13.Saturday3:30 p.m. The Wild, G.6:30 p.m. Scary Movie4, PG-13.9 p.m. Cars, G, starringOwen Wilson and PaulNewman. LightningMcQueen, a hotshotrookie race car driven tosucceed, discovers thatlife is about the journey,not the finish line, whenhe finds himself unexpectedlydetoured in thesleepy Route 66 town ofRadiator Springs. Onroute across the countryto the big Piston CupChampionship inCalifornia to competeCourtesy graphicagainst two seasoned pros, McQueen gets to know thetown’s offbeat characters—including Sally, a snazzy 2002Porsche, Doc Hudson, a 1951 Hudson Hornet with a mysteriouspast, and Mater, a rusty but trusty tow truck voiced,who help him realize that there are more important thingsthan trophies, fame and sponsorship.Sunday3:30 p.m. The Wild, G.6:30 p.m. Scary Movie 4, PG-13.Monday6:30 p.m. The Wild, G.Tuesday6:30 p.m. Cars, G.Wednesday6:30 p.m. Scary Movie 4, PG-13.Thursday6:30 p.m. Cars, G.BULLETINBOARDBriefsJob fairThe Lakenheath commissary is having ajob fair 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., Saturday. The commissaryhas openings as cashiers, deli/bakeryfood service workers and store workers.Those interested in positions should call(01638) 52 3515 and ask for Sarah.Furnishings management officeBecause of traffic restrictions on RAFFeltwell during the Independence Day celebrationthe furnishings management office willclose at 12 p.m., Monday. The FMO will openat 10 a.m., Tuesday. For questions, call 226-7154/7334.MOD Independence Day policySupervisors may use a liberal leave policyespecially if work requirements arereduced significantly on the holiday.Employees are required to work, or theymay request leave. Activities should scheduleworkloads to ensure effective utilizationof MOD employees on those days.Employees will be excused from duty, withpay, only when circumstances prevent managementfrom assigning duties. (ForIndustrial MOD Employees: compensatorydays earned according to the Industrialworking time administration arrangement istaken on U.S. holidays. Employees who donot have compensatory time to their creditwill be required to work or may requestleave.)Tim WestwoodTim Westwood from the popular BBCshow “Pimp My Ride, U.K.” will be at the48th Avenue from noon until 6 p.m., Saturday.For more information, call 266-4884.Independence day celebration, busscheduleThe bus for the Independence Day celebrationon July 3 will depart RAFLakenheath hospital every 30 minutes startingat 9:30 a.m. The bus at RAF Feltwell willdepart every 30 minutes starting at 9:55 a.m.The last bus will depart RAF Feltwell at12:25 a.m.An Independence Day celebration will beheld at RAF Feltwell from 10 a.m. until midnightMonday. The base will be open to thepublic from noon until midnight.American LegionServicemembers interested in joining anAmerican Legion in the local area contact,London Post No. 1. Form more informationcall (01353) 722 775 or e-mailrafikicd.wheeling@virgin.net.Change of command ceremoniesThe 48th Aircraft Maintenance Squadronwill have a change of command ceremony at9 a.m., Wednesday at Hangar 6.The 48th Service Squadron will have achange of command ceremony at 10 a.m.,July 7 at the Eagle’s Landing.Water report availableA short new report is available that willtell you what’s in your tap water.Visit it at: https://48medweb.lakenheath.af.mil/amds-sgpb/Environmental.htmor call the 48th Medical Group’sBioenvironmental Engineering at (01638) 528047 to receive the report.Instructors neededCentral Texas College – Lakenheath isnow accepting applications for classroominstructors in the following fields: criminaljustice, early childhood professions, emergencymedical technology, food servicesmanagement, paralegal studies, fire sciences,automotive technician, applied managementand military science. For those with educationand experience in one of these fields,stop by the CTC office in the education centeror contact the CTC representative at 226-3507 or lakenheath@europe.ctcd.edu.The American Red CrossThe RAF Lakenheath American RedCross Summer Youth Volunteer programruns July 10 through Aug. 11 for ages 12 to21. Orientations are scheduled for 9 a.m.,June 26, 30 and July 7 in Building 950. Preregistrationis required for the orientation.For more information, call the Red Crossoffice at 226-1855.PAGE 22 JET 48 MAGAZINE JUNE 30, 2006