Dec. 16.qxd - Hurlburt Field

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:17 AM Page 1Vol. 54, Issue 44Five fromHurlburtselectedfor colonelFive Hurlburt Field officerswere recently selectedfor promotion to colonel.The promoted include:Lt. Col. Thomas Bell, AirForce Operations Test andEvaluation CenterLt. Col. MichaelDuPerier, 19th SpecialOperations SquadronLt. Col. James Foley, AirForce Special OperationsCommandLt. Col. Nancy Kunkel,16th Maintenance GroupLt. Col. James Marsh,16th SOS“It’s a privilege to be inthe Air Force and a honor tobe a selected as a colonel,”Colonel DuPerier said.In all, 447 lieutenantcolonels were selected forpromotion.The results of the boardare as follows:In-the-promotion zone331 selected from 736 consideredfor 45 percent selectrate.Above-the-promotionzone 14 selected from 976considered for 1.4 percentselect rate.Below-the-promotionzone for colonel 60 selectedfrom 2418 considered for2.5 percent select rate.There were 43 officersselected in medical andjudge advocate boards.(AFPN)Tops In BlueSenior Airman ErikaPlacencia, Buckley Air ForceBase, Colo., (left) and 1st Lt.Tamilyn Becker, HanscomAir Force Base, Mass.,(right)perform on stage during the2005 Tops In Blue world tourDec. 7 in the FreedomHangar. Tops In Blue is an allactive duty U.S. Air Forcespecial unit made up of amateurperformers selected fortheir entertainment abilities.by Staff Sgt. Mareshah Haynes16th SOW Public AffairsA security forces individual mobilizedaugmentee was presented a BronzeStar Wednesday by Col. Clifford “Skip”Day, 16th Mission Support Group commander.Tech. Sgt. Gary Barrow, a Fort WaltonBeach native, and combat arms trainingand maintenance instructor with the16th Security Forces Squadron, earnedthe medal for bravery while deployedto Iraq in 2003, during a ceremony at the6th Special Operations Squadron.While in Iraq, Sergeant Barrow, a formerArmy infantryman who joined theAir Force in 2002, was the NCO in chargeof a deployed site’s security forces controlcenter, where he was responsible forthe security of more than 1,500 peopleand special operations aircraft.16th Special Operations Wing, Hurlburt Field, Fla. Dec. 16, 2005Photograph by Airman 1st Class Ali FlisekSFS Airman receives Bronze StarSergeant Barrow was recognized forhis leadership skills and decisiveness todiffuse potentially deadly situations.One such situation involved an individualwho walked up to the main gate atthe deployed location with improvisedexplosives. He secured the situation andensured that no one was injured.“When I saw the man approaching, Iautomatically knew something waswrong by the way he was acting,”Sergeant Barrow said. “I just tried tokeep him from getting near any peopleor resources that could be injured ordamaged. The local national troopsphysically detained him.”“I didn’t do anything special, I just didwhat I was supposed to,” SergeantBarrow said.Sergeant Barrow also displayed hisheroism while aircrew members on thebase were taking heavy fire. He establisheda blocking force, which successfullyprevented any injuries or damageor loss of aircraft.“I was in the right place at the righttime, or some people might say thewrong place at the wrong time,” he said.Even though the events for whichSergeant Barrow is being rewarded tookplace more than two years ago, he wasstill honored.“My family is really excited,”Sergeant Barrow said. “My parents andeveryone attended to the ceremony.“I’m proud of him. I’m thankful thathe did his duty and is back home now,”said Dewey Barrow, Sergeant Barrow’sfather and Fort Walton Beach resident.“He really deserves this award,” saidHeather Barrow, Sergeant Barrow’s wife.“He thinks about other people first. Hethinks this country is worth the sacrifice,and he would do it again today.”NewsNews15th SpecialOperationsSquadron gears upannual gift deliveringin HondurasFeatureSportsWingman0 Drinks under 210 DUIs1 Drink an hour3 Drinks a nightWeatherTodaySat.Sun.High Low585856383738Home of America’s Air Commandos

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:18 AM Page 22 COMMANDO Dec. 16, 2005Viewpoints2005: Year to be proud ofby Lt. Gen.Michael WooleyAFSOC commanderAs we look forward tospending time in peacewith family and friendsthis holiday season, weshould take this opportunityto reflect on a year ofhard work and remarkableaccomplishments.We continued to leadthe fight in the war on terrorism,and our effortsyielded historic results.In October, the Iraqiby Col. Norman Brozenick Jr.16th SOW commanderpeople bravely turned outand voted to approve thatcountry’s first constitution,setting the stage for democraticelections in January.In Afghanistan, everyman and woman wasgiven the opportunity tochoose their own constitution,representatives andpresident.My fellow Airmen, youwere the ones who madethis possible, engaging anddefeating the insurgents,who persistently attemptto undermine freedom.Reflect on accomplishments, focus on 2006What a year it has been. Just thinkabout it.The year began just as the threeprevious years – Air Commandosdoing what they do best, continuingto support the Global War onTerrorism. We started off at a sprint,and the pace only got quicker.Hurricane season started offquickly as the first named storm ofthe summer, Tropical Storm Arlene,made landfall just to our west. Thenext month, Hurricane Dennis blewthrough and delivered a biggerpunch to the Emerald Coast.But, the storms proved to be nomatch for the resilience of TeamHurlburt as we pulled together andquickly overcame the challenge.As the alphabet soup of stormscontinued, Hurlburt was called uponto provide relief to our neighbors inMississippi and Louisiana after hurricanesKatrina and Rita ravaged thearea. The outpouring of support andcompassion for our brothers and sistersalong the Gulf Coast from ourAirmen and their families was unbelievable.Did all of this bring a halt to ourno-fail mission downrange? No way.We continued to deliver our specializedair power in Iraq, Afghanistanand wherever called upon by thepresident. It’s because of your dedicationto the mission that the Iraqi peopleheld their first democratic electionthis year and Afghanis now havehope of further developing theirdemocracy.This is just a sample of what we’veaccomplished in 2005. Now it’s timefor some much-deserved time withour friends and families to celebratethe holiday season.When you make the trip to joinyour loved ones, I ask that you do sosafely. Make sure you get plenty ofrest before hitting the road. I knowAir Commando SalutePhotograph by Jamie HaigNot only did we takethe fight to the enemy inIraq, Afghanistan andother corners of the globe,we used our unique talentsto save lives here at home.In the aftermath of hurricanesKatrina and Rita,our active-duty, Guard andReserve Air Rescue Warriorsand Air Commandoscombined to save morethan 5,400 people anddeliver 550 emergencyresponse personnel andmore than 150 tons ofcargo to those who neededOrganization: 25thInformation OperationsSquadronDuty Title: Communicationssurveillance technicianHometown: Orlando, Fla.Hobbies: Fishing, travelingand spending timewith familyMission Contributions:Sergeant Nieto performsground maintenance,to include troubleshootingand repairs,on aircraft surveillanceequipment installed onAir Force Specialit most. You brought hopeto those who had lost it.Unfortunately our successescame with a cost.Many of you spent significanttime away from yourfamilies this year, and Ican’t express how much Iappreciate your sacrifices.Some of our warriorspaid the ultimate price,giving their lives in thefight for freedom, and wewill forever keep theirmemories in our heartsand minds.The reason we haveachieved victories,See PRIDE, Page 6everyone is eager to spend time withfamily and friends, but don’t speed.The few extra minutes you’ll cut offdriving time isn’t worth the life youstand to lose if you get in an accident.No matter where you spend theholidays, keep in your hearts ourbrothers and sisters in arms who continueto fight for freedom overseas.Open up your homes to their familiesand to those Airmen who remainhere, unable to go back to their own.Also, keep in your minds theAirmen who are no longer with us.Regardless of if they were lost athome or abroad, their memories willremain with us all.So, Team Hurlburt, my heartfeltthanks go to you for all you’ve donefor the base, the community and thenation throughout the year. Col. PaulHarmon, 16th Special OperationsWing vice commander, Chief MasterSgt. Todd Small, 16th SOW commandchief, and I wish you andyours the happiest of holidays.Staff Sgt. Thomas NietoOperations Command aircraft.Sergeant Nieto coordinatesmaintenance supportissues with the hostbase, 16th SpecialOperations Wing maintenanceand contractor personnel.In addition, heprovides information andtechnical advice to higherlevels of management.(For information aboutAir Commando Salute or tosubmit an Airman, call the16th Special OperationsWing Public Affairs Officeat 884-7464.)www.hurlburt.af.mil16th SOW Aimpoints•Fight and win•Take best care of our wingmen,families and resources•Become the next generation ofAir Force and Air CommandoleadersDisclaimerPublished by the Northwest Florida Daily News, aprivate firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force,under exclusive written contract with the 16th SpecialOperations Wing. This civilian enterprise Air Forcenewspaper is an authorized publication for members ofthe U.S. military services (add "overseas" in publicationsoutside the United States). Contents of (name of newspaper)are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsedby, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, orthe Department of the Air Force. The appearance ofadvertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements,does not constitute endorsement by theDepartment of Defense, the Department of the Air Forceor Northwest Florida Daily News of the products or servicesadvertised. Everything advertised in this publicationshall be made available for purchase, use or patronagewithout regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin,age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliationor any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user orpatron. Editorial content is edited, prepared, and providedby the 16th Special Operations Wing Public Affairsoffice. All photographs are Air Force photographs unlessotherwise indicated.Submitting articlesThe deadline for submissions to the COMMANDOis noon Monday for briefs the week of publication.Articles may be submitted on IBM format computer diskor via electronic mail. Non-electronic submissions mustbe typed, double-spaced. All submissions must includethe name and telephone number of a person to call.Open LineThe Commander’s Open Line is your directline to the base commander for questions or suggestionsabout subjects of concern to the HurlburtField community. To receive a response, leaveyour name, unit and telephone number. Openlines of general interest will be printed in theCOMMANDO. Other questions will be answeredby letter or phone call. Remember, the quickestand most efficient way to resolve a problem is totalk directly to the agency responsible. This givesthem an opportunity to help you and perhapsimprove their process. However, if you’re not satisfiedwith the answer you receive, feel free to givethe commander a call at 884-OPEN (6736), or e-mail your concerns to commando@hurlburt.af.mil.Address informationU.S. MAIL: COMMANDO131 Bartley Street, Suite 326Hurlburt Field, FL 32544-5271E-MAIL: commando@hurlburt.af.milTELEPHONE: (850) 884-7464 FAX: (850) 884-6093COMMANDO Editorial Staff:Col. Norman Brozenick Jr.CommanderCapt. Virgil MageeChief,public affairs2nd Lt. Amy GonzalesDeputy ChiefMaster Sgt.Stuart CampSuperintendentMaster Sgt.Kevin OwenStaff WriterAirman 1st ClassJames DickensEditorSenior AirmanHeidi DavisSenior Staff WriterJamie HaigLayout and DesignStaff WriterStaff Sgt.Mareshah HaynesMedia RelationsDUI TrackerDec. 9-15: 1 DUIThis year: 28DUIs for 2004: 42Last DUI: 16th Equipment Maintenance Squadron,Dec. 10Days since last DUI:16th OG...7216th MSG...3816th MXG...516th MDG...351Totals are current as of Dec. 15.Don’t Drink and Drive. Call AADD at 884-8844Potential saves this year: 620

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:19 AM Page 3www.hurlburt.af.milFor children’s sakeFive-room, $2.1-million addition improvesyouth center’s quality, capabilitiesby Jamie Haig16th SOW Public AffairsThe 6,700-square foot, $2.1 millionaddition to the Hurlburt Field YouthCenter opened with a ribbon-cuttingceremony Tuesday, signifying animprovement for Hurlburt Field childrenand the before-and-after schoolprograms offered.“It’s been a long time coming, and Ithank 16th Services Squadron personnelfor their efforts,” said Col. Clifford“Skip” Day, 16th Mission SupportGroup commander. “I hope everyonewill enjoy it.”Five new rooms, which took 16by Master Sgt. Stuart Camp16th SOW Public AffairsAn NCO with more than 18 years of service wasconvicted here of drug use Dec. 13.Tech. Sgt. Freda Kelly, Detachment 7, 373rdTraining Squadron instructor, pleaded guilty tomultiple uses of cocaine during the one-day courtmartial.The trial ended at 1:50 p.m. with military judge,Lt. Col. Donald Plude, sentencing her to eightmonths confinement, reduction in grade to E-1 anda bad conduct discharge.Sergeant Kelly admitted to using cocaine aftermissing promotion to master sergeant by less thana point in 2005, involuntary reassignment as aninstructor and being denied a medal.months to complete, presents newopportunities for children ages 5-12years old.“We want to challenge the children,”said Dell Mucci, youth centerdirector. “We want to encourage themphysically and mentally.”The “quiet room” provides a spacewhere the children can read, dohomework or take part in dramaclasses.The science and arts room has aselection of arts and craft supplies,microscopes, board games and asewing area.The dance room, which is enclosedby mirrors, is available for practicingNewsNCO convicted on cocaine charges“I was standing in front ofthe Angel Tree in the Eglin(Air Force Base) chapel with12 tags in my hand left to fillasking, ‘How will we fill theseneeds?’ Minutes later, Ireceived a phone call,” saidPia Elsesser, 96th Air BaseWing at Eglin.On the phone, Master Sgt.Mike Strickland, 505thCommand and Control Wing,offered Ms. Elsesser $750 cashto purchase items for the leftoverchildren.“I couldn’t believe howquickly the need was met,”Ms. Elsesser said. “I was ableto purchase all the items onDec. 16, 2005the tags with money leftover.”Blessings continued topour out on the communityafter Ms. Elsesser receivedanother phone call.“A call came in this morning(Tuesday) from the familyadvocacy center at Eglin,” shesaid. “A couple is expectingtheir first baby and can’tafford the things they’ll needfor a newborn.“With money left overfrom the donation by the505th, we can help purchasesome of those items for thecouple,” Ms. Elsesser said.Before sending money toEglin, the 505th CCW alsogave $1,000 to the HurlburtField Company Grade OfficerCouncil and $700 to the 16thCOMMANDO505th CCW donation answer to prayer for Angel Tree fundsPhotograph by Kemberly GroueCapt. Christine Gentry (left) and 2nd Lt. Eric Kline, Hurlburt FieldCompany Grade Officer Council, give gifts to Angel Tree recipientsat Keesler Air Force Base, Miss.Capt. James Reed, trial counsel for the 16thSpecial Operations Wing Legal Office, argued thatSergeant Kelly used cocaine up to eight times in 18months.“Rank has its privileges, but it also has itsresponsibilities,” Captain Reed said. “She kneweverything was at stake every time she usedby Senior AirmanHeidi Davis16th SOW Public Affairsdance moves and doing aerobics.A multi-purpose room allows for aplace to play music and have snacks.The room, which is equipped with akitchen, can also be rented out by base“Rank has its privileges, but it alsohas its responsibilities ... She choseto be a drug user – not an NCO.”Photograph by Jamie HaigTuesday, children enjoy a snack in the new youth center multi-purpose room. Thenewly opened addition offers equipment and space to keep children active.Capt. James Reed,16th Special Operations Wing Legal Officetrial counsel3members for personal use. It alsocomes equipped with dance platformmachines, a big screen television andSee YOUTH, Page 6cocaine. She chose to be a drug user – not an NCO.”Sergeant Kelly, a C-130 crew chief, was removedfrom her instructor duties Aug. 1 after being identifiedthrough random urinalysis testing.Defending Sergeant Kelly at the court-martialwas Capt. Jeremy Anderson, area defense counselhere, and Capt. Kristine Autorino, a circuit defenseattorney.“Sergeant Kelly is a good person who madesome bad choices,” Captain Autorino said duringthe sentencing phase of the trial. “She has takenresponsibility for her actions.”In an unsworn statement, the accused apologizedto her family and coworkers – many of whomattended the proceedings.The maximum sentence Sergeant Kelly couldhave received was a dishonorable discharge, fiveyears confinement, forfeiture of all pay andallowances and a reduction in grade to E-1.Special Operations WingChapel to help with AngelTree tags.“They (505th CCW personnel)made me cry,” said. 1stLt. Corrie Patch, HurlburtField Angel Tree coordinator.“At the deadline, we had 22angels without gifts.“With the $1,000 donation,we were able to purchase giftsfor those children,” she said.“They really came throughand saved the day.”Lieutenant Patch said thedonations by the 505th CCWhelped provide for gifts to 315children on the Angel Tree(109 of which from Keesler).In total, Team Hurlburtraised more than $11,000 forgifts for local children and$7,000 for children at Keesler.

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:20 AM Page 44 COMMANDO Dec. 16, 2005NewsAirmen on mission to deliver presents during...Operation Christmas Wishby Senior AirmanHeidi Davis16th SOW Public AffairsOn Tuesday, 100 needychildren will be waiting atAldea SOS in La Ceiba,Honduras, where SantaClaus has been arrivingeach year on an AirCommando aircraft.Twenty-eight HurlburtField Airmen will fly to LaCeiba, in an MC-130HTalon II (provided by theThrowingcheeroverboardCol. Mark Alsid (topleft), 16th OperationsGroup commander,and members of the16th OperationsSupport Squadron ridea boat from theMartime Range SupplyBuilding in the 20thAnnual DestinChristmas ParadeSaturday.by Amy Oliver16th SOW Public AffairsThe 16th Special Operations Wing’shonorary commanders and honorarycommand chief toured the 16thMedical Group Dec. 8.The honorary commanders andcommand chief program includesfour quarterly tours, each one focusingon one of the four groups of thewing.The purpose of the program is tointroduce the civic leaders to the missioneach group performs and howeach plays an integral part in the overallmission of the 16th SOW.The 16th MDG conducted the firstquarterly tour.“Much of what you’ll see is commonin most medical clinics,” saidCol. Tim Jex, 16th MDG commander,during the mission briefing.“But, we’ll also show you specificskills and some special equipmentthat are required to keep our Air15th Special OperationsSquadron) and an MC-130PCombat Shadow (providedby the 9th SOS at Eglin AirForce Base) to deliver16,000 pounds of food,clothing and gifts to theorphaned children.“The purpose of the missionis to share the holidayspirit with those childrenby providing small gifts ofclothing, toys and candy aswell as common use itemsthat the orphanage needs,like wheelchairs and smallappliances,” said Capt.Lance Burnett, 15th SOS.“The items have beendonated by base and localcommunity organizations.”The orphanage receiveslittle help from its government,other than providingthe land and facility. In1992, Lt. Col. KennethPoole, then 8th SOS commanderwho has sinceretired and works at theJoint Special OperationsCommandos fighting at the tip ofthe spear,” Colonel Jex said.After the 16th MDG mission briefing,the group toured the dental lab,pharmacy, physical therapy, laboratory,radiology, optometry and the tacticaloperations medical skills lab. Thegroup learned how the dental lab canmake crowns, dentures and mouthpiecesin-house. The pharmacydemonstrated all the checks involvedin filling prescriptions, virtually eliminatingany chance for mistakes andensuring patient safety.In physical therapy, Colonel Jexexplained that due to the intensephysical training required of AirCommandos which sometimes causesinjuries, physical therapy is a busyclinic. In the optometry clinic, thegroup watched as Senior Master Sgt.Lynn Lawrence, 16th MedicalOperations Squadron, made a pair ofeyeglasses within minutes. Theoptometry clinic also demonstratedthe capabilities of their brand newUniversity, made it his missionto provide neededsupplies once a year.Thus, Operation ChristmasWish was born.“We were in La Ceiba ona mission, when we saw theorphanage on the side ofthe road,” said Maj. ManuelTorres, U.S. Air ForceSpecial Operations Schooland co-founder ofOperation Christmas Wish.“It really got to us. Thatyear, we gave the orphanage$200 and have beenreturning each year since,”he said.See WISH, Page 6Photograph by Amy Oliver16th MDG opens facilities for honorary program tourretinal mapping machine that cantake a photograph of the retina withoutdilating the patient’s eyes. Maj.(Dr.) Robert Kesead Jr., 16th MDOS,explained how they recently saved anAirman’s eyesight by diagnosing anearly detached retina at a routine eyeexam.“That’s amazing,” said BradWilliams, 16th Operations Grouphonorary commander and captain ofthe Florida Fish and WildlifeCommission Division of LawEnforcement. “Saving just one person’seyesight pays for the machine.”Finally, the group visited the tactical/operationalmedical skills labwhere medics train in simulated combatenvironments on a dummy that isvirtually alive, complete with blinkingeyes and rising chest.“I had no idea of the technologythat was here,” said Yvonne Freeman,16th MDG honorary commander andpresident of Brainstorms Marketingand Special Events.www.hurlburt.af.milPhotograph by Tech. Sgt. Andy DunawayAn Iraqi soldier places his completedballot into the ballot box aftervoting along with other Iraqi securityforces in Hayji, Iraq, Monday.Iraqi citizens voted Thursday toelect Iraq's first free, permanentparliamentary government.BrothersIn ArmsArmyWASHINGTON – Four TaskForce Baghdad Soldiers werekilled Tuesday when their patrolvehicle struck a makeshift bombnorthwest of Baghdad, officialssaid.The Soldiers' names are beingwithheld pending notification ofnext of kin. Officials provided noother details.MarinesWASHINGTON – In Iraq, a suicidecar bomber attacked a U.S.convoy Monday on a street inFallujah, wounding a Marine andkilling the bomber, officials atCamp Blue Diamond, about 70miles west of Baghdad, saidtoday.Officials said the bomber wasparked on the side of the street ina yellow taxi and detonated thebomb as the convoy passed. Theinjured Marine was taken to anearby military hospital for treatment.No report was available onthe Marine's condition.NavyMAYPORT, Fla. – A U.S. NavySH-60B helicopter from HelicopterAnti-Submarine Squadron48, homeported in Mayport, Fla.,crashed in the eastern PacificOcean the morning of Dec. 13.Three crew members were onboard, and their status remainsunknown.

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:20 AM Page 5www.hurlburt.af.milSOF: Club supplements trainingby Airman 1st ClassJames Dickens16th SOWPublic AffairsKeeping motorcycleriders safe on the GulfCoast has drawn directsupport from wingleadership.Riders are requiredto take a safety classbefore riding on or offbase, but the Sentinelsof Freedom motorcycleclub is another place toride and build skills.“Like most people, Icomplained when Ilearned that I had to attenda mandatory trainingclass on how to ridemy bike,” said Tech. Sgt.Damian Spaits, 6thSpecial OperationsSquadron and SOFmember.“After I attended thecourse, I realized that Iprobably would havekilled myself had I notbeen through training,”he said.SOF takes rides in thelocal area and, as thesaying goes, practicemakes perfect.“Since joining (SOF),I find myself takingrides to places that Imay have never foundon my own,” SergeantSpaits said.“The camaraderie ofSOF is the thing thatsurprised me most.They don’t care whattype of motorcycle youride or what your experiencemay be.”The motorcycle ridershere have been onthe rise along with gasprices, but riders needto make sure to staysafe.“In this area, ridershave to be extra careful,and make sure to watchthe drivers aroundthem,” said Col. PaulHarmon, 16th SpecialOperations Wing vicecommander. “Clubs likeSOF can help riders getcomfortable, instead ofjust hopping on theroad.”For more informationabout SOF, visit http://www.hurlburt.af.mil/basewide/sentinels.Dec. 16, 2005COMMANDO‘Rhett’ reduces flightline wildlife hazardby Jamie Haig16th SOW Public AffairsRhett, the bird and wildlife strikehazard border collie, has worked onthe Hurlburt Field flightline for a littleover a year, and the result is areduction in bird strikes.Bird and other wildlife aircraftstrikes cost the military hundreds ofthousands of dollars every year. It’sRhett’s job, as part of the bird andwildlife strike hazard program, alsoknown as BASH, to encourage thoseanimals to seek shelter away from theflightline.“Bird strike costs have dropped offtremendously in the past year atHurlburt Field,” said Maj. DanielWilson, 16th Special Operations Wingflight safety chief. “In the past threefiscal years, bird-strike costs herewere more than $450,000. SinceRebecca Rushing, (16th SOW Safety5Office wildlife control officer) andRhett started working here, the costshave dropped to $40,000 – a 90-percentdecrease in one year,” he said.Ms. Rushing, is Rhett’s trainer andhandler. The pair can be seen on theflightline throughout the day, lookingfor any wildlife hazards that maypose a risk to aircraft.Ms. Rushing escorts Rhett throughthe tarmacs, fields and tree lines thatline base landing strips. The goal is toleave behind Rhett’s ‘scent’ as a deterrentto the animals and birds.Ms. Rushing developed verbal andwhistle commands for Rhett. Basedon the length, pitch and tone of thewhistle, Rhett knows exactly what todo at any given moment.The team also works with the 16thCivil Engineer Squadron, airfieldmanagement and the safety office toidentify wildlife hazards under lowleveltraining routes.ARMED FORCES COMM INCCS/HOMELAND HERO6111445 X 7.00

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:20 AM Page 66 COMMANDO Dec. 16, 2005www.hurlburt.af.milPRIDE, Continued from Page 2furthered our proud heritage, and done all ourcountry has asked of us is because you, the menand women of Air Force Special OperationsCommand, are of the highest character and integrity.The nature of our work often demands weWISH, Continued fromPage 4Major Torres said thatmost of the children, whorange from age 2 to 16, wereabandoned by their parents.“Some were sent to theorphanage because their parentsdied,” he said. “But,most were taken in becausetheir parents didn’t wantthem.”The orphanage is managedby about 20 people and ona limited budget, so thegifts received from OperationChristmas Wish are ablessing for the community,Major Torres said.“They are always excitedto see us arrive,” he said. “Weare usually able to spend atleast four hours at theorphanage with the children.Capt. Darin Wheeler, 15thSOS, will be our Santa Clausfor the second year in a row.”Although every missionhas its risks, for the most part,Honduras is a friend and ally,Captain Burnett said.“Each year, we find a wayto improve the system andhelp the schedule runsmoother,” Major Torres said.“We also try to prevent a‘rush in, rush out’ mission.”make quick decisions on our own, and I know Ican trust you to make the right choices.Keep putting integrity first in all you do, andwe will continue to provide America the finestspecial operations and combat search and rescueforces the world has ever known.I’m proud of you, our nation is proud of you,and you should be proud of yourselves. Have anenjoyable and safe holiday. Take time to let yourloved ones know how I appreciate them and howmuch you appreciate them. It’s their love and supportthat enables us to do what must be done.Kathy and I wish you and your family the best forthe holidays.Bike challenge raises funds for ‘Christmas wish’by Jamie Haig16th SOW Public AffairsWhen Jim Anderson, U.S.Air Force Special OperationsSchool research director,realized the unit didn’thave the money to supportany charity programs, hetook immediate action.On Dec. 2-3, Mr. Andersonand Lt. Col. MarkLeSage, USAFSOS chief ofprofessional development,biked from Hurlburt Fieldto Panama City Beach andback to Shalimar raisingalmost $650 for OperationChristmas Wish.During Operation ChristmasWish, the 15th SpecialOperations Squadron fliespackages to an orphanagein La Cebia, Honduras tohelp less fortunate children.“I knew the status of ourfunds and that we wouldn’tbe able to help out thisyear,” said Mr. Anderson.“So, we came up with someideas on how to raise moneythrough sponsorship.”The money raised by thetwo bikers was more thanenough to sponsor 15 childrenat the orphanage.Mr. Anderson rode the128-mile trip and ColonelLeSage met him in Destin toride to Panama City Beach.“This entire venture wasJim’s idea,” said ColonelLeSage. “He put togetherthe entire deal – set up thetrip, raised the money andarranged for the packages.All I did was accompanyhim part of the way.”DAVID GTHOMPSON/GEICOCS/AUTO INS6105262 X 7.00ARMED FORCES COMM INCCS/USING THE BRI6111413 X 7.00

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:20 AM Page 1010 COMMANDO Dec. 16, 2005F-22A ready for combatCourtesy of AFPNLANGLEY AIR FORCEBASE, Va. – The Air Force’smost advanced weapon systemis ready for combat, AirForce officials here announcedThursday.In reaching initial operationalcapability, the F-22ARaptor, which was redesignatedfrom the F/A-22 in thepast week, has been certifiedready for employment.Declaring the transformationalfighter IOC means theRaptor’s proven capabilitiesare now available for use incombat around the globe andare supported by a properlytrained and equipped force.It also means the aircraft isqualified to perform homelanddefense missions whenrequired. In the words ofGen. Ronald Keys, AirCombat Command commander,“If we go to wartomorrow, the Raptor will gowith us.”“F-22A IOC means ourwarfighters now have anunprecedented lethal mix ofair-to-air and air-to-groundcapabilities at their disposal,”General Keys said. “TheRaptor’s cutting-edge technologybrings us continuedjoint air dominance despiteadvancing enemy threats.”Reaching the IOC milestoneculminates a collaborativeeffort between Air Forceorganizations and the service’sindustry partners overthe past 25 years.The road to IOC includedthe F-22A System ProgramOffice turning Air Forcerequirements into a successfulacquisition program;developmental flight test andevaluation, simulation andground testing at EdwardsAFB, Calif., and Eglin AFB,Fla.; engine testing at ArnoldAFB, Tenn.; missile testing atHolloman AFB, N.M., andover the Pacific Test Range;tactics development at Nelliswww.hurlburt.af.milAFB, Nev.; pilot and maintenancetraining at TyndallAFB, Fla.; and deployabilityhere.“The F-22A fulfills a longquest to bring fifth-generationcapabilities of stealth,supercruise and precision tothe warfighter today and 30years from today,” GeneralKeys said.“Now that we have metour first promised milestoneof a fully capable, multi-missionplatform ready for combat,we are already focusedSee F-22A, Page 13YOUTH, Continued fromPage 3soon, a karaoke machine.The new high-tech cyber loungehas five computers that arehooked up with three interactivegaming stations and a gateway to theInternet.“We try to encourage the childrento be active,” said Sarah Conway, 16thSVS. “But, we also understand theirneed to just ‘chill’ in front of a gamesometimes.”In addition to the changes made forthe children, the youth center staffmembers now has their own trainingroom.“This room gives us the edge,” saidMr. Mucci. “We want to provide thebest training available to our staff.”The youth center has plans to keepexpanding their current curriculum tooffer more opportunities for base children.The hours of operation are 6:15-8:30 a.m. and 2:30-5:30 p.m. Mondaythrough Friday.RIVIERA FITNESS SPACS RHP/2 FOR 15951382 X 7.00UNIVERSITY OF ARKANSASCOMMANDO/MASTER6085793 X 7.00

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:20 AM Page 1212 COMMANDO Dec. 16, 2005www.hurlburt.af.milBase posts holiday hours for 16th Services Squadron facilitiesFacility Dec. 24 Dec. 25 Dec. 26 Dec. 31 Jan. 1 Jan. 2Gator Lakes Golf Course 7 a.m. – 2 p.m. Closed 6 a.m. to dusk 6 a.m. to dusk 6 a.m. to dusk 6 a.m. to duskHurlburt Lanes Bowling Center Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedSpare Time Grill (Hurlburt Lanes) Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedJ.R. Rockers Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedThe Soundside Closed Thursday through Dec. 28 Party Closed ClosedOfficers hooch Closed Saturday through Jan. 3Enlisted hooch Closed Dec. 23 – Jan. 3Velocity Subs Closed Saturday through Jan. 3Child development center Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedTeen center Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedYouth center open recreation Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedSchool age program Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedInformation, tickets and travel sales Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedITT leisure travel sales Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedFrame skills Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedWood skils Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedMulti-crafts center Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedAuto skills Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedPool Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedBeachside/marina Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedPaintball fields Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedAderholt Fitness Center Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedCommando Fitness Center 8 a.m. – 1 p.m. Closed 8 a.m. – 2 p.m. Closed Closed ClosedRiptide Fitness Center Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedRiptide Dining Facility Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedOasis Dining Facility Flight meals only (Dec. 24 – Jan. 2)Reef Dining Facility Br 6-8:30 a.m.; L 11 a.m – 1 p.m.; D 4-6:30 p.m. (Dec. 24 – Jan. 2)Library Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedDive club Closed Closed Closed Closed Closed ClosedEditor’s Note: The library will also be closed Dec. 20-23.DR CANDACE COOLEYCS/BUNDLE OF 46107882 X 6.00TROY STATE UNIVERSITYCS/TERM 36107923 X 6.00

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:20 AM Page 13www.hurlburt.af.milIDEAWORKSCS/UWF6117243 X 9.50Dec. 16, 2005COMMANDO13AF mission statementdefines future directionby Master Sgt. Mitch GettleAFPNAir Force leaders releaseda new mission statement Dec.7 that defines the current andfuture direction of the AirForce.“Today, our world is fastpaced, constantly shifting andfilled with a wide range ofchallenges,” said MichaelWynne, Air Force, secretaryand Gen. T. Michael Moseley,Air Force chief of staff, wrotein a joint letter to Airmen.“Our mission is our guidingcompass, and now more thanever, we need it to be clearand precise.”The mission statementdefines the “where and what”the Air Force accomplishes ona daily basis:The mission of the U.S. AirForce is to deliver sovereignoptions for the defense of theUnited States of America andits global interests — to flyand fight in air, space andcyberspace.The statement includestwo new concepts, “sovereignoptions” and “cyberspace,”which the secretary and chiefdefined.They said having sovereignoptions is the essence ofbeing a superpower.“Our task is to provide thepresident, the combatantcommanders, and our nationwith an array of options ...options that are not limitedby the tyranny of distance,the urgency of time, or thestrength of our enemy’sdefenses,” they said.“With one hand the AirForce can deliver humanitarianassistance to the farthestreaches of the globe, whilewith the other hand we candestroy a target anywhere inthe world,” said SecretaryWynne and General Moseley.The term cyberspaceincludes network security,data transmission and thesharing of information.“We have quite a few ofour Airmen dedicated tocyberspace, from securityawareness, making sure thenetworks can’t be penetrated,as well as figuring outcountermeasures,” SecretaryWynne said.F-22A, Continued from Page 10on furthering our integrated tactics development, refiningour deployability, and growing and training our force,” hesaid. “To add to what we learned on our successful first operationaldeployment to the Utah Test and Training Range todrop (joint direct attack munitions), fly against double-digit(surface-to-air missiles) at Nellis, and work (close air support)withF-16 FAC-As, we will conduct our first routine peacetimeexercise deployment by taking 12 Raptors to Alaska in June forNorthern Edge.”Designed to ensure America’s air dominance for years tocome, the F-22A will ensure U.S. joint forces’ freedom fromattack and freedom to attack, even as adversaries continue toadvance their weapons and technologies.“As I told (Air Force Chief of Staff) Gen. (T. Michael)Moseley, he and I have spent our lifetime executing, instructing,and providing air dominance for the joint force,” GeneralKeys said. “Lamentably, we have never been privileged to holda weapon like this in our hands.“After reviewing our test results, seeing our operationaldeployment performance, and talking to the pilots that will goto war with it, I am confident that the F-22A joins the combatforce at a far more mature and capable level than any of ourprevious great aircraft, and will take its rightful place in a longline of U.S. Air Force legends of the air,” he said.The first combat-ready Raptors are assigned to the 27thFighter Squadron, one of three squadrons assigned to the 1stFighter Wing here.The squadron’s current combat deployment capability withthe F-22A is a 12-ship package designed to execute air-to-airand air-to-ground missions.

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:22 AM Page 1414 COMMANDO Dec. 16, 2005Slashing through Burmesejungles with Maj. Gen. OrdeWingate’s Chindits; hunkeringdown far above thedemilitarized zone in NorthVietnam; infiltrating intoNorthern Iraq to ensure thesuccess of a thousand-manairborne jump – not the averageday at the office for mostweather forecasters.But, those missions andmany more have been businessas usual since 1942 forthe Air Force special operationsweather teams assignedto the 10th Combat WeatherSquadron.The battle-trained meteorologistsof special operationsweather have been atthe tip of the spear for morethan 60 years. They providecombatant commanders withthe weather data and analysisthey need to plan andexecute missions at the tactical,operational and strategiclevels of war.As elite members of theAir Force Battlefield Airmanprogram, special operationsweathermen receive specializedtraining far beyond thatof other meteorologists, saidsquadron director of operationsMaj. Don Shannon.“Our guys have first gonethrough the normal weathertraining and served in anoperational weathersquadron before they canvolunteer for SOWT,” hesaid.Major Shannon said, “Wetypically work with specialoperations forces from theU.S. Army Special OperationsCommand. Because ofthe types of individuals weteam with, we undergomuch of the specializedtraining they do, so we cankeep up with them in thefield.”Weather team membersare jump-qualified and mayhold ratings as militaryfreefall parachutists, airassault specialists, Rangers,combat diver qualificationsand more, the major said.“We know that when weput out a forecast, someoneis going to use it downrange,”said Capt. DonGarrett, the squadron’s assistantdirector ofoperations.“We providethe realtime,eyeson,groundtruth aboutconditionsthat can criticallyimpactthe mission.“That’s whythis is a total volunteeroutfit,” he said.“We’re all willing to give it100 percent every day.”Major Shannon agrees thepeople are what make theweather teams unique.“These people have greatattitudes. They’re tough guyswho get it done no matterhow rough it gets,” he said.A “typical” SOWT missionwas like that performedby Staff Sgt. Dave Mack. Heinfiltrated into Iraq with anArmy special forces operationaldetachment alphateam during the early stagesof Operation Iraqi Freedom.They survived 12 missileattacks, one which destroyedtheir Humvee, and enduredalmost continuous smallarmsattack. At one point,Sergeant Mack provided 36www.hurlburt.af.milFront-line forecasting not average day on the jobby Chief Master Sgt.Gary EmeryAFSOC Public AffairsFeaturePhotographs by Chief Master Sgt. Gary EmeryCapt. Don Garrett (left) and Staff Sgt. Jody Ball, both in the 10thCombat Weather Squadron, look for enemy forces during a specialoperations weather team exercise near the base.continuous hoursof weather observationsso aircraftcouldevacuate seriouslywoundedSoldiers fromBaghdad.“You get somuch satisfactionfrom thismission,” MajorShannon said.“Everyone works togetherand you affect the mission atevery stage, from planning toexecution to redeployment.”Staff Sgt. Jody Ball, 10thCombat Weather Squadron,releases a weather balloon.USA DISCOUNTERS, LTD.BLUE/CS/COMPUTER5960052 X 5.00WHITWORTH BUILDERS INCBRT RED/CS/BROOK5956583 X 5.00

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:22 AM Page 15www.hurlburt.af.milHurlburt HappeningsDec. 16, 2005COMMANDO15USAFSOS coursesThe U.S. Air Force SpecialOperations School will conduct anAsia-Pacific Orientation Course Jan. 9-13.This course is designed for peoplepreparing to live in or deploy to theAsia-Pacific region or those with aprofessional or analytical interest inthe region. For more information, callMaj. Jae Sim at 884-1858 or visithttps://www.hurlburt.af.mil/milonly/tenantunits/jsou.U-drive-it, mobagsThe 16th Logistics ReadinessSquadron Vehicle Operations Flightprovides U-Drive-It government vehiclesfor official purposes.All UDI requests must be receivedfive working days prior to the plannedevent and e-mailed to:16lrs.dispatch@hurlburt.af.mil. AllUDI requests must be coordinatedwith vehicle control officers or NCOs,or signed by commanders or designatedrepresentatives.The 16th LRS Mobility Bags Sectionwill close at noon the first Monday ofeach month for training. For moreinformation, call Master Sgt. JerryThornton at 884-1329.ClaimsAny persons with a claim for oragainst the estate of Senior AirmanLeland Aslinger, 16th AircraftMaintenance Squadron, should call1st Lt. Ming Xu at 982-5459 or e-mailming.xu@hurlburt.af.mil.Recruiting briefThe 109th Airlift Wing in Scotia,N.Y., has traditional Guard vacanciesin the following career fields: 1C3X1,2A5X1, 2A5X3A & B, 2A6X1, 2A6X2,2A6X4, 2A6X6, 2A7X1, 2E1X3, 2F0X1,2S0X1, 2T0X1, 2S0X2, 2T0X1, 2T2X1,3E0X1, 3E0X2, 3E1X1, 3E3X1, 3E4X3,3E7X1, 3M0X1, 3P0X1, 3S0X1, 4A0X1,4N0X1, X4N0X1, 4A251 and 6F051.There are also positions open throughthe rank of major for prior-servicenavigators qualified in any airframe.For more information, call DSN 344-2457, commercial (800) 524-5070, or e-mail 109aw@recruiting.goang.com.Casino NightJ.R. Rockers is sponsoring CasinoNight at 7 p.m. Jan. 13. Slot machinesand table games will be available forpatrons 18 years or older. Club memberswill receive $5 worth of freechips. Chips earned have no cashvalue, but may be used at the casinoauction held at the end of the evening.For more information, call 884-6469.Photograph by Jamie HaigCaring and SharingCaring and Sharing needs helpwith the Christmas distributionSaturday through Monday at OrioleBeach Elementary School.To volunteer or for more information,call Master Sgt. Debra Rasmussenat 883-1079 or 939-4756.Science fair judgesScience fair judges are needed forthe East Panhandle Regional Scienceand Engineering Fair 4 – 8 p.m. Feb. 1at the Northwest Florida Fairgrounds.Individuals with specialties in thefollowing areas are desired: behavioralscience, botany, health and medicine,microbiology, zoology, chemistry,engineering, math, computersand physics. The sign-up deadline isJan. 6. For more information, callMinty Knighton at 882-3934 or e-mailminty.knighton@eglin.af.mil.Spouses' clubThe Hurlburt Spouses' Club isoffering academic scholarships to militaryspouses and local high schoolstudents.Applications are located at thesquadrons, family support center,base education office, base library,thrift shop and local high schools.Students and spouses may also applyonline at www.hurlburtsc.com.For more information, call RachelCrigger at 207-0964.Air Force ReserveThe Air Force Reserve is hiring forpart-time positions. Continue servingin your current Air Force specialty orpossibly retrain and continue toreceive many of the same Air Forcebenefits while securing retirementwith the Reserves.If considering early separationunder the Palace Chase program orLet therebe lightsGavin Plumhoft, 3, switcheson the lights to thebase Christmas treeTuesday in the Air Park. Heis assisted by (left to right)Col. Paul Harmon, 16thSpecial Operations Wingvice commander, and LisaBrozenick, wife of the 16thSOW commander, andTech. Sgt. Lynne Castle,16th SOW Protocol.approaching the end of an active-dutycommitment, call Master Sgt. AdamWaldie at 884-2656.CommandoThis is the last issue of the year forthe Commando newspaper. The nextissue will be printed Jan. 6. AllHurlburt Happening briefs and articlesthat will need to appear in the Jan.6 issue will need to be submitted nolater than Jan. 2. For more information,call the 16th Special OperationsWing Public Affairs Office at 884-7464.Contracting claimsContractors working on an AirForce installation are responsible fordamages they cause to a service member.Air Force Instruction 51-502 states,the claims office will refer servicemembers to the appropriate officewhen a mishap occurs.If the service member knows whothe contractor is, they should contactthe contractor directly. Service memberscan file a claim through the baseclaims office if the contractor fails toreimburse for damages. If the contractoris unknown, or for more information,call Matthew Spencer at 884-6880or Chris Wen-tworth at 884-1260.Single parentsAn informal lunchtime meetingwill be held noon – 1:30 p.m. today inthe family support center.Share with others the joys and challengesof being a single parent. Lunchprovided. For reservations, call 884-5441.New Year's EveCelebrate New Year's Eve in TheSoundside. The members-only price is$50 and includes dinner, entertainment,champagne toast and breakfastNew Year’s Day.The social begins at 7 p.m. Freetransportation will be available fromThe Soundside to the visiting quartersfor members. For more information,call 884-7507.Prices are $3.50 for adults and $1.75 forchildren 6-years-old and up.Movies start at 7 p.m. unless otherwiseindicated.Hurlburt Field – 884-7648Friday – Doom (R) Something has gonewrong at a remote scientific research stationon Mars. All research has ceased.Communication has failed. A legion of nightmarishcreatures of unknown origin stalksthe countless rooms and tunnels of the facility,killing what few people remain.Saturday – Fog (PG-13) A thick fogenshrouds a coastal town. The fog is reminiscentof one 100 years earlier that wrecked aship and drowned the seamen aboard. Thesailors are back and out to kill whomeverthey find.Sunday – North Country (R) True storycentered on Lori Jenson, who took a job at aMinnesota iron mine in 1975. She and otherfemale miners endured harassment frommale co-workers. Jenson eventually filed suitin 1984 and won a landmark legal decision.Eglin – 882-1066Friday – Prime (PG-13) Rafi is a recentlydivorced 37-year-old career woman fromMan-hattan and Dave is a talented 23-yearoldpainter from Brooklyn who falls in lovewith her. Part counselor, part Jewish mother,Rafi's therapist Lisa is helping Rafi out of herpost-divorce slump and through the urgentalarm of her ticking biological clock.Saturday – Dreamer (PG) Ben was oncea great horseman, whose gifts as a trainerwere now being wasted on making othermen's fortunes. Sonya was a great horsewhose promising future on the racetrack wassuddenly cut short.Sunday – The Weather Man (R) PopularChicago weatherman, Dave Spritz, has a shotat the big time when a national morning televisionshow calls him for an audition.Professionally, Dave is on the top of theworld, but his personal life is in disarray.(Editor’s note: Movies are subject tochange. Telephone numbers are provided forpatrons to confirm dates.)Catholic MassSaturday, 5:30 p.m.Sunday, 7:15 and 10 a.m.Confessions: Saturday, 4:30 to5 p.m., or by requestYouth: 5 p.m. SundayReligious Education: September – MayProtestant ServicesSunday, 8:30 a.m. (Traditional worship)11:30 a.m. (Contemporary worship)Religious Education: August – MayYouth and Singles groups availableJewish Services (882-2111)Sabbath services: Friday, 7:30 p.m., EglinChapel CenterMuslim Services (882-2111), Eglin ChapelCenterJumuah: Friday, 12:45 p.m.For more information, call 884-7795.Airman AgainstDrunk DrivingFor a free, confidential ridehome, call AADD at 884-8844.Don’t drink and drive.24-hour Fraud, Wasteand Abuse hotline:Hurlburt Field – 884-6322Air Force – (800) 538-8429Department of Defense – (800) 424-9098

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:22 AM Page 1616 COMMANDO Dec. 16, 2005Military equal opportunityThe 16th Special Operations Wing Military EqualOpportunity Office is seeking volunteers to serve aschair and co-chair for three upcoming ethnic observances.Be a leader in organizing, coordinating andplanning events to promote awareness and understandingin learning about different cultures.For more information, call the following pointsof contact:Martin Luther King, Jr. Birthday, Jan. 16Master Sgt. Norman Williams, 884-6844African-American History Month, FebruarySergeant WilliamsWomen's History Month, MarchTech. Sgt. Jeannie Crosby, 884-2631.Unit Personnel RecordsThe 16th Mission Support Squadron UnitPersonnel Records Group and Awards &Decorations will close Dec. 27 – Jan. 2 to conduct a100 percent inventory of all UPR’s.Please return all records to the UPRG located inthe 16th MSS Military Personnel Flight, Building90210, by close of business Wednesday.OWCThe Microsoft Information Technology Academyand Cisco Systems Networking Academy atOkaloosa-Walton College offer evening coursesbeginning Jan. 4 at the Niceville campus. Coursesprovide hands-on training. Enroll now through Jan.4 at any OWC campus. In-person registration is 8a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday through Thursday.Previously registered OWC students may applyonline. For more information, call 729-5217.Spring registrationEmbry-Riddle Aeronautical University springregistration continues until Jan. 6 in Building 90220.The spring term is Jan. 7 – March 10. For moreinformation, call 581-2106 or view the online scheduleat www.erau.edu/fortwaltonbeach.Education testingThe Hurlburt Field Education and Base TrainingFlight offers tests to individuals seeking to advanceor meet educational goals.Testing is conducted at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.Monday and Tuesday, and at 8 a.m. Thursdays. Formore information, call 884-6724.Register for classesRegister for college courses starting next year.Stop by the Hurlburt Field Education and BaseTraining Flight to receive counseling and guidanceto reach your educational goals. For more information,call 884-6724.University of ArkansasThe University of Arkansas located at HurlburtField offers a Master of Science with a major inoperations management. Complete a degree in oneyear.Classes start in January, March, May, August andOctober. For more information, call Sherry DelCastillo at 884-3844.Online tuition requestsActive-duty members can process their onlinetuition assistance requests through the Air ForceVirtual Education Center by logging on to the AirForce Portal at https://www.my.af.mil/gcss-af5/FAF/fafHome.jsp and going to the "Career" or "Life"sections.For more information, call 884-6724.www.hurlburt.af.milWeek in HistoryThe following is a listof extraordinary eventsthat occurred this weekin military history:Dec. 13, 1962 – TheU.S. Air Force Stargazerballoon reachedan altitude of 82,000feet.Dec. 14, 1927 –Army Maj. Gen.James Edmond Fechetbecame Air Corpschief.Dec. 14, 1989 –Military AirliftCommand allowswomen to serve ascrewmembers onC-130 and C-141 airdropmissions.Dec. 15, 1964 –The first U. S. AirForce gunship, theAC-47, enters combatin Vietnam.Dec. 17, 1903 – TheWright Brother's firstA U. S. Air Force Convair B-36J.sustained controlledflight in a poweredaircraft occurred.Dec. 17, 1993 – Thefirst B-2 Spirit bomberarrives at WhitemanAir Force Base, Miss.Dec. 18, 1941 –First Lt. Boyd "Buzz"Wagner became thefirst Army Air Forceace of World War II.Dec. 19, 1958 –President DwightEisenhower's Christmasmessage wasrelayed by an orbitingAir Force satellite.Dec. 20, 1989 – The16th SOW provideddirect support forOperation Just Causein Panama.Dec. 21, 1944 –Gen. Henry "Hap"Arnold appointed toArmy five-stargeneral.File photoAUDIOEXPRES-SIONSCS/CARSTEREO611004COLDWELLBNKER/EDBEASLEYCS/RETIREDAF611318MILLITARYMEDIACAYO GRANDE/LOCALCS/LUNCH SPECIAL6110062 X 5.00

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:26 AM Page 17www.hurlburt.af.milYear in ReviewDec. 16, 2005 COMMANDOA glance back at 200517Year 2005 is coming to a closeand the Hurlburt Field COMMAN-DO staff wants to take this opportunityto look back on the year.We’ve had some great accomplishmentsduring a year filledwith disasters.The most hurricanes everrecorded in the United States, atsunami in the Indian Ocean andthe ongoing war in Iraq andAfghanistan, may have been problems,but the 16th SpecialOperations Wing has risen to thechallenge.Now take a look at what youhave accomplished this year, theyear of 2005.Jan. 5Thirteen members ofthe 16th SecurityForces Squadron leavefor Asia after the tsunamito provide securityand conduct fly-awaymissions.Feb. 11Groundbreaking ceremonyfor new 720thOperations SupportSquadron AdvanceSkills Training Flightnew training facility.Courtesy photographMarch 19The first ever Special Operations Family Festtakes place on the flightline. Hundreds of peopleattended the event.JanuaryFebruaryMarchFeb. 17Representatives fromHurlburt Field and theDefense CommissaryAgency cut the ribbonon the commissaryafter the facility’s twoyear,$9.4 million dollarrenovation.Photograph by Senior Airman Kimberley BattsCourtesy photographFeb. 9Dozens of 823rd RED HORSEAirmen return to Hurlburt Field aftera series of highly successful deploymentsin support of the Global Waron Terrorism. Their efforts toimprove the quality of life and preventthe spread of terrorism tookthem to economically-depressed villagesthroughout Africa and Iraq.March 31Nine Special Operations Airmen are killed in anMC-130H Combat Talon II aircraft crash in AlbaniaMarch 31.Capt. Todd Bracy, 34, of Murphysboro, Ill; Capt. JamesCronin, 32, of Oak Grove Village, Ill.; Capt. GilWilliamson, 31, of Dike, Texas; Capt. SurenderKothakota, 30, of Fayetteville, N.C.; 1st Lt. Ray OwensJr., 22, of Birmingham, Ala; Chief Master Sgt. LawrenceGray, 40, of Chester, S.C.; Tech. Sgt. James Henry, 30, ofValparaiso, Fla.; Tech. Sgt. Glenn Lastes, 39, ofSouthington, Conn. and Staff Sgt. Patrick Pentico, 22, ofHanksville, Utah, lost their lives in the accident.Eight of the Airmen were assigned to the 7th SpecialOperations Squadron, and Sergeant Lastes was assignedto Detachment 2, 25th Intelligence OperationsSquadron.

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:29 AM Page 2020 COMMANDO Dec. 16, 2005Year in Reviewwww.hurlburt.af.milOct. 12The 319th SpecialOperations Squadronactivates here. Thesquadron flys thePilatus PC-12., alsodesignated the U-28A.Nov. 3Hurlburt Field awarded theAir Force Special OperationsCommand InstallationExcellence AwardNov. 26Senior Airman LelandAslinger, 16th AircraftMaintenance Squadron, diesin a motorcycle accident nearCrestview.Nov. 18The final tally for theCombined FederalCampaign comes to$427,000 with anaverage of 34 percentparticipation.Photograph by Amy OliverDec. 10Hurlburt Field participates in the 20th Annual Christmasparade in Destin.OctoberNovemberDecemberOct. 28The 3rd SpecialOperations Squadronactivates at Creech AirForce Base, Nev. Thesquadron operates theMQ-1 Predator.Nov. 17Two Hurlburt Field AirForce Special OperationsCommand units received the2005 Air Force OutstandingUnit Award (with Valor).Recipients include 16thSpecial Operations Squadronand the 18th Flight TestSquadron.Photograph by Airman 1st Class Ali FlisekNov. 13More than 70 tactical air control party Airmenfrom installations around the world convenehere for the Lightning Challenge. The challengetest TACP’s in core aspects of their jobs.Photograph by Senior Airman Heidi DavisDec. 6The child development centerannex groundbreaking takesplace. The $702,000 project isscheduled for completion inaround six months.

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:31 AM Page 21www.hurlburt.af.milChris Behrens, a student in the 19thSpecial Operations Squadron, clockeda blazing 55 minutes 47 seconds towin the 10-mile Challenge hereSaturday morning. Behrens was oneof 42 runners who took the challengeand braved cool, 40-degree temperatures.“He took off,” said Greg Voelkel,Sportswho took second place overall andfirst in the men’s 20-29-year-old-agedivision in 59:32. “He was probablyrunning 5:20 second (miles) at thebeginning.”Behrens ran collegiately at theUniversity of Arkansas.“I was working hard, but I didn’tknow my splits,” he said. “I didn’thave my watch on. There was also aheadwind out by the flightline.”The course began and ended at theAderholt Fitness Center. The turnaroundpoint was nearthe Heritage Gate,beyond the base golfcourse.On the return fromthe turn-around,near mile seven,Behrens hadmore than atwo-minuteadvantage on thepack — which wasled by Voelkel.Sandy Ebanks, aneighth grade teacherfrom Pace was thefirst woman to crossthe finish line. Hertime was 1 hour 14minutes, 12 seconds.Brian McMahon tookfirst in the men’s masters’division; and PaulaPiazza was the topwomen’s masters’ finisher.Dec. 16, 2005Flag football championshipServices stays true for one last game, defeating themedical squadron 29-8, going undefeated on the yearby Staff Sgt.Mareshah Haynes16th SOW Public AffairsThe 16th ServicesSquadron remained undefeatedas they trampled the16th Medical Group Dec. 8,with a 29-8 victory in the finalbattle of the Hurlburt Fieldintramural flag footballchampionship.“We played them (16thMDG) before and won,” saidBrian Lewis, 16th SVS quarterback.Services had a solid start inthe game, with a touchdownrun by Lewis and a two-pointCOMMANDOIn thebleachers21High Five Poker RaceThe “High Five Poker Race” willbe at 7 a.m. Jan. 20 at the AderholtFitness Center. Awards will be presentedfor the first three places in eachage category. Participants with one ofthe top ten poker hands will receive aprize. Register by noon, Jan. 19 at anyof the fitness centers for this freeevent. For more information, call 884-6884.BaseballYouth baseball, ages 5-14 andgirls’ softball, ages 10-14, registrationwill be Jan. 9 – Feb. 10. Cost is $45 perplayer or $90 per family. All playersmust have a current physical and birthcertificates on file at the youth centerby March 10. For more information,call youth sports at 884-6355.CoachesVolunteer coaches are needed foryouth baseball and girls’ softballteams. Application packages are availableat the youth center. All newcoaches are required to attend theNational Youth Sports Coaches trainingand complete CPR/first aid training.For more information, call 884-6355.Behrens dominates 10-mile challengeby Master Sgt. Stuart Camp16th SOW Public Affairsconversion. With less thantwo minutes left in the firsthalf, 16th MDG snuck past16th SVS with a pass playcaught in the end zone. The16th MDG completed thetwo-point conversion.Services scored anothertouchdown and successfultwo-point conversion, settlingthe score at end of the firsthalf with Services ahead, 16-8.At halftime, Stan Drew,center and defensive rusherfor 16th SVS, could see victoryon the horizon for histeam.“We can win because wePhotograph by Master Sgt. Stuart CampClement Danish, Carl Britt and Alveto Cowley (from left to right) run alongIndependence Road on the outward leg of the 10-mile Challenge held Saturdaymorning.“He creates opportunitieswhere therewere none.”Stan Drew16th Services SquadronCenterhave a mobile quarterbackwho sees the field well andcreates opportunities wherethere were none, he said.“Our team is confident.”Despite their efforts, 16thMDG was not able to overcomethe lead 16th SVS establishedat the beginning of thegame.Chris Estro, 16th MDGcoach, attributes the loss tonot executing the plays.“I’m happy to be in secondplace. In the past, we’ve nevermade it to the championship.We had a good season,” Estrosaid.Lewis lends his team’s successto one key element.“Everybody bought into asystem, whereas other teamswere trying to air things outand call plays in the huddle,”Lewis said.“We did everything fromthe line, and short and compact.”Division timesMen’s 10-15Ben Chastain 1:07:50Keaton Sweatt 1:28:06Alec Walsh 1:29:16Women’s 16-19Barbara Richards 1:31:06Women’s 20-29Christine Miller 1:25:46Men’s 20-29Voelkel 59:32Ricardo Rivera 1:07:00Daniel Whitton 1:09:50Women’s 30-39Lori Diering 1:19:07Kathy Leahy 1:20:40Melissa Marr 1:21:44Men’s 30-39Ronald Fosnock 1:10:22Frank Rodriguez 1:10:47Scott Griffith 1:11:00Men’s 40-49Rich Sumrall 1:06:14Gary Maddock 1:08:26Mike Radford 1:11:10Men’s 50-99Chris Neal 1:05:14Bill Christie 1:21:46Richard Beck 1:41:57Photograph by Master Sgt. Stuart CampLori Dierig, women's 30-39 agedivision winner.

Dec. 16.qxd 12/16/2005 9:31 AM Page 2222 COMMANDO Dec. 16, 2005www.hurlburt.af.milFAMILY POOL SPA BIL-LIARDCOMMANDO/HOME FO6085742 X 10.00Photograph by Staff Sgt. Mareshah HaynesNot this timeMario Webb (right), 23rd Special Tactics Squadron, and Alfonso Porter, 16th EquipmentMaintenance Squadron, converge on Dewayne Huff, Robins Air Force Base, Ga., duringa basketball game in the Aderholt Fitness Center Saturday. Hurlburt defeated Robins, 85-83. In a second game Sunday, Robins defeated Hurlburt, 89-67. The Commandos’ nexthome game is against Moody AFB, Ga., Jan. 7-8.Over 30basketballTeamAFSOCMDGMXGCOMM823rd RHSSVSLRSCMS505th 1505th 2MSS39th IOSVarsitybasketballTeamMoodyTyndallEglinRobinsMayportHurlburtW554443322110W111278642L122223334345L558711810SportsstandingsFor more information on sports standings,call the Aderholt Fitness Center at 884-6884.IntramuralhorseshoesTeam823rd RHS 1823rd RHS 2CES25 IOS39 IOS39 IOS 2W876322L234667IntramuralbowlingInternational leagueTeamHMXS39th IOS823rd RHSLRS505 EXS 2AFSOC BAFSOC A505th EXSJSOUAMXSW66605654535248464643L3036404243444850505334 62National leagueTeam W LSVS A505th CCWCMS AAFSOC CSVS BCMS BCSChiefsMDG6866615652525034283035404444466265