March 2012 - 104th Fighter Wing, Massachusetts Air National Guard

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPLooking for a few good men and women!By Sandra Wakefield, 104th FW Airmen and Family Readiness CenterPAGE 9HUSBANDS, WIVES, FA-THERS, MOTHERS,BROTHERS, SISTERS,FIANCE’S, GRANDPAR-ENTS, RETIREESBECOME A MEMBER OF THE 104 THFAMILY READINESS GROUPWe are expanding the board andneed your help!VOLUNTEER to be active in your ServiceMembers FRGVOLUNTEER as much or as littletime as you can, but volunteer!We host many fun events each yearand are looking for new ideas and newenergy!Attend our annual all expense paidweekend training at the Southbridge Hoteland Conference Center April 27 -29.Offers excellent workshops and an opportunityto network with other Guard familiesacross the state.An informative and fun time.We have a busy upcoming year. Younever know when our members will becalled. Help us to be there for them andall base families.Being involved with your FRG is agreat way to meet new friends and feelgood about making a difference.Elections for FRG BoardPositions:ChairpersonTreasurerSecretaryYouth Co-CoordinatorBoard MemberBoard MemberBoard memberWANTEDWe are also looking for a NewsletterEditor an individual whowould be interested in contributingan article ofFRG events and newsquarterly to the Air Scoop.Nominations submittedvia email by March 8.To FRG Secretarylyn@valleymarketing.netNames of nominees will be emailed onMarch 9Votes may be sent via email to theaddress above by March 14Elections to be held Thursday 15MarchTime: 4-6 p.m.Place: NCO ClubVotes to be counted day of elections.Please Get Involved … help us makethis the best year ever!Core training without back painBy Staff Sgt. Ryan Crossman, 104th FW Logistics Readiness SquadronFor many of us, the term ―core training‖brings to mind the dread associated withdoing crunches in preparation for the AirForce Physical Fitness Test (AFPFT).However, traditional abdominal exercises,such as crunches and sit-ups, actuallypromote lower back pain due to repeatedand excessive flexion of the lumbar spine.Low back pain is a leading cause of disabilityin the US military ¹. So, how canwe strengthen our core AND reduce therisk to our lower backs? First, we need abasic understanding of what the coreactually is.Our ―core‖ is actually a collectionof muscles that primarily work to stabilizeour lumbo-pelvic-hip complex (ourcenter of gravity). These muscles includenot only the abdominals, but also thespinal erectors, glutes, hamstrings, andhip flexors, to name a few. The foundationof all human movement originatesfrom this area, so it makes sense that ourcore muscles are among the largest andstrongest in the human body. Without astrong core, the body cannot efficientlysupport the spine and transmit force tothe extremities.Advancements in biomechanicshave led many to re-evaluate the mannerin which they train the core. Dr StuartMcGill, an internationally recognizedexpert on spine function and injury prevention,has stated that the spine losesup to 40% of its ability to bear compressiveloads when fully flexed. A traditionalcrunch or sit-up can generate at least3,350 newtons of compressive force onthe spine. By comparison, the U.S. NationalInstitute for Occupational Safetyand Health states that anything above3,300 newtons is unsafe. In light of thesefindings, a 2009 study of over 2,000 USArmy soldiers compared the effects of situpswith back-friendly core stabilizationexercises on performance in the USArmy‘s physical fitness test¹. The researchersfound that soldiers who performedcore stabilization exercises hadfewer days of work restriction due to lowback injury. Furthermore, the core stabilizationexercises were more effectivethan sit-ups in improving passing rateson the sit-up component of the test.The safest, most effective way totrain the core involves performing exercisesthat require the individual to maintaina neutral spine. This ensures thatthe lower back is in its strongest position.An isometric front plank is a great exampleof an exercise that trains the core tomaintain a neutral spine because if youdon‘t, the spine extends as the hips dropto the floor. There are countless ways toincorporate these concepts into any exerciseprogram.Everyone could greatly benefitfrom adopting this approach to coretraining. Although we can‘t escape theinevitability of doing crunches for theAFPFT, we should be smart about ourpreparation in the meantime. MarkTwain said it best – ―If you do whatyou‘ve always done, you‘ll get whatyou‘ve always gotten.‖ I can be reached atryan.crossman.1@ang.af.mil if you haveany questions, comments, or would likeme to show you any of these methods ingreater detail.Effects of Traditional Sit-up TrainingVersus Core Stabilization Exercises onShort-Term Musculoskeletal Injuries inUS Army Soldiers: A Cluster RandomizedTrial.http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/19812508Ryan Crossman earned a masters degreein exercise science from Springfield Collegeand has been a strength and conditioningcoach to collegiate and highschool athletes for the past five years. Heis a Certified Strength and ConditioningSpecialist through the National Strengthand Conditioning Association.

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPAirman in Focus — Mr. John RichardsonBy Senior Airman Bonnie Harper, 104th FW Public AffairsPAGE 10Mr. John W. Richardson joinedBarnes Air National Guard Base approximately20 years ago, after working inboth municipal and private sectors.While working as a field artillery surveyorfor the Army, Richardson was deployedto Germany, with the 3rd InfantryDivision. The leadership of the Armytaught him the importance of maintaininghigh standards, Richardson said.He used the GI Bill to complete hisdegrees in geology and geography, spendingtwo years each at Holyoke CommunityCollege and UMass Amherst.In 1986, after graduating from Universityof Massachusetts, Richardsonworked for an engineering company as aenvironmental analyst. He also workedfor the City of Leominster, MA in thesame capacity.He began working here in NovemberFox, Fox … the calls on the radiowere made as pilots from the 104thFighter Wing engaged the aggressorsquadron from RED FLAG, simulatingan air-campaign over the desserts of Nevadain late January.Approximately 150 members participatedin the most realistic training theworld offers, exercise RED FLAG. Thisintense two week combat training eventoccurs over the ranges at Nellis Air ForceBase Nev., allowing the pilots to fly atthe same speeds and altitudes theywould if they were in combat.This joint and international exercise,allows allied countries and all branchesof the DoD a chance to collaborate withthe U.S. Air Force.―The purpose of this is to give the1991 as the base environmental coordinator.Richardson always wanted to have acivilian job in the military because heknew it would be a rewarding career.In his current job, his duty is to focuson maintaining compliance with severalenvironmental laws can impact the 104thmission. Barnes ANG base is situatedover the Barnes aquifer a drinking waterresource for sever communities in thePioneer Valley. Daily operations canhave a direct impact in the City of WestfieldWater supply. Under the FederalFacilities Compliance Act, all militaryinstallations must comply with the environmentallaws for Local, US EPA, andMassachusetts Department of EnvironmentalProtection; otherwise face finesand or penalties.We try to mitigate the influence ourmission has on the environment, so thatRed Flag SuccessBy Maj. Matthew T. Mutti, 104th Fighter Wing Executive OfficerMaster Sgt. Jeff Almeidaworks the flight-line at NellisAFB, Nev., serving as thedeployed First Sergeant.(Photo by Maj. Matthew Mutti)the conditionsof theenvironmentdo notaffect themission inreturn,Richardsonsaid.―This isa goodplace towork for,with goodpeople,‖Richardsonsaid. ―Col.Brooks andCol. Gunning are committed to keepingthe environment safe and well maintained.‖pilots experiencein the most realisticcombattraining environment,‖saidLt. Col. DanNash, the OperationsGroupproject officer forthe deployment.A typical exerciseconsists ofabout 60 aircraftmade up of U.S.and coalitionfighters, bombers,and supportaircraft on the―Blue‖ side,against 15 or more ―Red‖ aircraft simulatingthe weapons and tactics of possibleadversaries. About eight to 12 ―Blue‖ airto-airplayers will face the 13-15 ―Red‖fighters and protect the other ―Blue‖ aircraft,which are air-to-ground strikersbombing various targets. There are alsodozens of sites simulating Surface to AirMissiles (SAMs), said Nash.The exercise scenarios builds fromone day to the next, increasing in difficultyand complexity. Night missions areintegrated into the campaign, utilizingtechnology like night vision goggles andthe joint helmet mounted cuing system.The maintenance teams and pilotsworked around the clock. Pilots wouldstart early, briefing and working to deconflictthe airspace for the morning mission,then a second crew would rotate into prepare for the evening missions, allwhile the maintainers meticulouslymaintained each of the jets slated for thenext mission.This RED FLAG exercise had addedvalue in that it was accomplished alongside the team from New Orleans, La.The Louisiana Air Guard is preparing towork along side our unit during an upcomingAir Expeditionary Force (AEF)deployment.We will be working closely withthe 122nd Fighter Squadron from NewOrleans, La. We deployed with the 122ndto Alaska this past summer, and will beco-located with them at RED FLAG. In afew months, they will be working with usduring our AEF deployment, said Maj.Peter Carr, the 104 FW Aircraft MaintenanceSquadron Commander and REDFLAG maintenance project officer.

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPNew fitness facilityBy Master Sgt. Dominique Chapman, 104th FW Mission Support GroupPAGE 11As all of you know, physical trainingis now at the forefront of AirForce leadership. With Ops tempospinning up more and more eachyear and seeing more Airmen withboots on the ground than ever beforethere has become a huge need for usto stay more physically fit, not onlyfor our physical health, but to helpus handle the stress of our jobs aswell. Our leadership has recognizedthe importance of maintaining ahealthy and physical lifestyle andhas ―put their money where theirmouth is‖ sort of speak. Over a yearago when the standards for the physicalfitness test changed and moreBarnes Airmen saw themselves comingup short with non-passing fitscores our leadership took notice andsaw that if we are going to ask ourAirmen to put forth 100% than weneed to provide the means for themto do so … and they did.For those of you who have not hadthe chance to take a look at the gymfacilities here at the 104th FighterWing, well there have been some majorrenovations and changes. In thebeginning of November 2011 an$89,000 renovation was approved toinclude knocking down walls to giveus more space a new $10,000 gymfloor along with new lighting andfans. Over $10,000 was put into anew sound system which includes anew CD player, IPod docking station,speakers and four, 46‘ inch flatscreen TV‘s with wireless capabilities.Over the past two fiscal yearsmore than $51,000 was spent on newgym equipment to include new treadmills,a smith machine, assisted pullup/dipmachine and rowing machine,among others. We have also createda space in the corner where a sit upbar will be mounted against the wallso Airmen can practice their sit-up‘s,push-up‘s and now there is room forstretching. Over the next few yearswe will be working hard to replaceany of the older equipment still leftand hopefully add a few new pieces.Other tools are also being put intoplace. The fitness committee is lookingfor any Barnes personnel who arecertified trainers or fitness instructorsthat might want to provide classeson our UTAs. We would like tooffer such classes as how to use thegym equipment or proper form. Weare looking to create a list of certifiedtrainers or fitness instructors whocan help Airmen who are seekingadvice on physical fitness whether itbe someone who is new to workingout or someone looking to add totheir skills.If you have any questions or suggestionson the new gym facility oryou are a certified trainer/fitness instructorwho would like to volunteersome of your time (with supervisorapproval) then please contact one ofthe Gym Committee members listedbelow:Maj. Mendoza, Capt. Benedict,Senior Master Sgt. Butman, SeniorMaster Sgt. Huxtable, Senior MasterSgt. Dumais, Master Sgt. Chapman,Master Sgt. Huard, Staff Sgt. Chapman,or Staff Sgt. Crossman.THIS UTA’S FEATUREDCLASS: NON-TRADITIONALCORE TRAININGWHERE: BASE GYMWHEN: 0900 AND 1300INSTRUCTOR: Staff Sgt. RyanCrossman. Staff Sgt. Crossman hasa Master‘s in Exercise Science fromSpringfield College. He is a certifiedstrength and conditioning specialistthru NSCA. He has worked withnumerous NCAA athletic programsto include Auburn University, Harvard,University, Georgia SouthernUniversity, and Springfield College.An F-15 Eagle sitson the rampsurrounding byfog at the 104thFighter Wing,MassachusettsAir NationalGuard.(Photo by SeniorMaster Sgt.Robert Sabonis)

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPNew recruiting office … new rewards programBy Master Sgt. Ernie Smith, MA ANG RecruiterPAGE 12On Feb. 14, the Massachusetts AirNational Guard Recruiting Team helda grand opening for their new office at843 Worcester Street in Springfield,Mass. Maj. Gen. L. Scott Rice and Col.Robert T. Brooks cut the ceremonialribbon as unit members, local media,and civilian guests looked on. As withall projects this was no overnight processand several sites and solutionswere thoroughly considered. The ArmyCorps of Engineers provided severaldesigns and invaluable input. Afterseveral months of work and preparation,the team moved from their oldlocation in West Springfield, Mass. to acustom constructed office that the AirNational Guard will use as their modelfor other storefronts nationwide. Asyou can see in the pictures, there is avery strong branding theme that willserve to make us more recognizable.The National Guard Bureau isstriving to create many more storefrontoffices like this one nationwide in a bidto make our ―brand‖ not just muchmore recognizable, but to also get recruitersout into the community wherewe can interact with the public andcreate awareness. For far too long…since the late 1940‘s … we have beenthe best kept secret in the military.This is a huge step in changing that.Many of the people we work with todaynever even heard of the Air NationalGuard when they first signed up with amilitary component. Ask one of thepeople you work with who was on activeduty or in the Reserve. It‘s quitelikely they never heard of us beforethey joined that other branch. It‘s atheme we, as recruiters, hear quiteoften. Given the currentfederal budgetsituation, we cannotrely on traditionaladvertising such ascommercials, billboards,and radio ormore current solutionslike internetads, advertising drivenapps or commerciallygleaned leadgeneration. Longstory short…they areexpensive.As we do live in anera where budgetconstraints are abundant,we have to find more viable solutionsto be recognized and the nationalpush for more offices like this is one ofthem. Myself, Tech. Sgt.Gabriel Kushin and Tech.Sgt. Heather Cekovskyare more than happy withour new office environmentand have alreadynoticed an uptick in leads.We weren‘t even movingour furniture in before wehad our first walk in customer.Of course, wecannot just rely on this tofulfill the MA ANG‘smanning needs whichleads me into the otherpart of this article.As it has always been … our mostimportant recruiters are you. As muchas we interact with the communityaround us we cannot hope to do so asmuch as each person who is on theBarneStormers team. This being said,there is a new Air National Guard ReferralRewards Program. This is opennot only to guardsmen and retirees,but also to technician and AGR‘s! TheAir Guard always needs new recruitsand you find them better than anyoneelse. There are many promotionalitems you can earn for your referralsand the more that enlist, the betterthey get. From backpacks to iPad‘syour referral for someone who enlistswill reward you for doing what you arealready doing … talking about whatyou do.The website to sign up iswww.refer2ANG.com and I highly encourageyou to sign up at your earliestopportunity. You never know whenyou will meet that person who will beinterested joining our team.

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPRobots Invade BarnesBy Capt. Mary Harrington, 104th FW Public AffairsPAGE 13On the morning of Feb. 18, eight104th FW kids witnessed an invasionof robots to Barnes Air National GuardBase, Mass. A first time event for the104th FW, the robotic invasion wasactually a workshop that gave militarykids, ranging in ages from 11 to 16, theopportunity to assemble, program andrace their individually created robots.Offered by Ms. Gretchen May, 4-HYouth Development Educator at theUniversity of Massachusetts, and organizedby Sandy Wakefield, Airmen andFamily Program Manager, the roboticsinstruction was given by volunteermembers of the Pioneer Valley Robotics4-H Club. The 4-H Robotics Clubvolunteers were kids, also ranging inage from about 11 to 16, led by theirclub leader Brian Lucia.The militarykids‘morningbegan with ademonstrationby MasterSgt. GregPauli, 104thFW ExplosiveOrdinanceDisposal(EOD).Assembledinside thePioneerNCO Club, Pauli gave the kids‘ handsontime with an Air Force robot - theEOD‘s Remote Operated Neutralization(RONS) system. Used for a varietyof different potentially hazardousenvironments, RONS replaces a robotfor a person in the presence of lifethreateningsituations, such as chemicalthreats and explosive devices.Although RONS is a somewhatoutdated 1980‘s vintage robot (and duefor retirement),itwas personallyused byPauli inIraq in early2000. Itweighs over600pounds,stands fivefeet high and about three feet wide.For the robotics class, Pauli made theextra effort of replacing a metal platewith glass, so the kids could see the―brain‖ of the robot, including the PCboard, mechanical/electronic servosand relays. Pauli gave all the kids anopportunity to use the switchbox tocontrol the robot; RONS can move 360degrees and can pickup munitions thatweigh up to 120 pounds.Newer generations of RONSinclude the F6 Robot, Talon Robot,Pacbot Robot; each of these is considerablymore advanced, ―lighter, smaller,fast more capable robots,‖ said Pauli.―I wanted to show the kids our robotRONS, because I knew the kids wouldfind it interesting and RONS wouldhelp them think about their futures.Robotics knowledge bridges to diverseprofessions – such as machining, programmingand troubleshooting.‖ Paulihas saved many lives in combat in hisEOD role and is humbly the recipientof two Bronze Stars for his heroism.After meeting RONS, the militarykids moved on to create their own robots,made from kits donated by Lego.Called the NXT, the Lego robots arebuilt with Lego Technic parts.The NXT is a powerful roboticsplatform and has unlimited possibilities.The 'brick,' a microprocessorthat is programmed with thecomputer, uses sensors and motorsto interact with the physicalworld. These computers have severalprogramming environmentsof varying difficulties; and bothvisual and code languages.―The kids seemed to have a wonderfultime with the robots,‖ said SandraWakefield. ―The class was just longenough to give the kids a good taste ofrobot engineering…leaving them witha thirst to learn more.‖ The kids spentabout two hours assembling the robotsand about fifteen minutes racing them.―The day was a big hit,‖ said Wakefield,―thanks to Gretchen May, MasterSgt. Pauli, Brian Lucia and the 4-Hvolunteers.‖ For more information onthe 4-H Club and Robotics Club, visithttp://www.pioneervalleyrobotics.com/March 25th at the NCO Club1pm, all families welcomeRSVP’s requiredContact the Airmen & Family Readiness Office at(413) 568-9151 x6981183

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPOPERATION CAREBy Senior Master Sgt. Chris Waltz, 212st EIS (deployed)PAGE 14A lot of local nationals enter throughthe Entry Control Point (ECP) here atBagram Air Base, Afghanistan, to gainentry for jobs on base. We, the contractorsand military personnel, employ Afghanistanlocals for work on base. Withoutgetting into too many details, manyAfghanistan locals cannot acquire a jobhere for several different reasons. Mostly,there aren‘t enough jobs for the amountof people coming into the area(approximately 9,000). So, OPERATIONCARE has started a weekly drop-off ofclothes and comfort items. We receivethese donated items from all over, bothhere locally and from the U.S., and aspart of OPERATION CARE, we hand outthese items to those who are not gainfullyemployed. The photos below show OP-ERATION CARE in full swing from theECP.The units tasked to Bagram Air Base,Afghanistan show up in large numbers toprovide assistance throughout the country.Along with the assistance of theEgyptian guards, Afghanistan militarypolice and Joint Force military police, wehave been fortunate enough to hand outmore than 100 ―kid kits‖ to local Afghanistanchildren. It is safe to say with thegenerous support from our Americanpatriots back home, and the continuedsupport here on base … it looks like thismight be a weekly endeavor into winningthe hearts and minds of the Afghanistanpeople. The majority of the people involvedin OPERATION CARE are volunteersand I am pleased to say that thedeployed members of the 212st EIS continueto be a strong force and providecontinuity for this program. Our engineerscontinually give up their Monday,Wednesday and Friday nights, volunteeringfor OPERATION CARE in the minimal―off hours‖ they receive. We hope tocontinue these donation efforts as longas we can and help the Afghanistan people.First Sergeant Green, Staff Sgt. Olsen, Capt.Kane, local interpreter, and Senior AirmanChief Master Sgt. Agnew, Tech. Sgt. Lau,and Senior Airman Connolly .Senior Airman Connolly, local nationalwoman, and Egyptian guards.2011/2012 CFCContributor Recognition ProgramANDSPECIAL DRAWINGSWe are very excited to announce the 2011CFC Campaign is launching a new incentiveprogram for donors to participate in!If you meet the criteria for donating in any ofthe categories to the right you willautomatically be entered into the drawing towin an awesome prize!Stars and Stripes: (First time donors)You could win a $25.00 Gift CardSilver: ($312-$519)You could win an iPod ShuffleGold: ($520-$999)You could win a Kindle with WiFiPlatinum: ($1000+)You could win an iPad 2 with WiFiSSgt. Steve Bergin from the 104thCommunications Flight was presentedwith a free Kindle for his participationin the CFC program.And a BIG Thank You to our Sponsors:

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPParalegal Positions AvailableFor Your InformationPAGE 15Position/Title/Grade: Paralegal/E-6Minimum Grade eligible to apply: None—see below for Special QualificationsUnit: 104 th FW // Staff Judge AdvocateSupervisor: Lt. Col. Robin PetersonApplication Deadline: Open until filledPOC for more information: Lt. Col. Peterson, cell (479) 430-3223, email: robinpeterson@cox.netTechnical/Educational background desirable: Prior experience in legal or paralegal work desirable but not mandatory.Ability to multi-task and excellent attention to detail is mandatory. Outstanding interpersonal communications skills, untouchablepersonal ethics and integrity. Individual must be a self-starter, with exceptional organizational skills and the ability tomanage large client loads in high tempo situations.Duties and Responsibilities: Prepare documents such as wills, powers of attorney, promissory notes, bills of sale, etc. Processcorrespondence and maintain suspense files. Performs legal research. Process special and general courts-martial proceedings.Process Article 15 and UCMJ actions. Assist with investigations. Examine and process legal actions.Special Qualifications: Individual must possess a minimum 5-level in any AFSC. Must have a minimum General ASVABscore of 50 (60 preferred) and be able to type 25 WPM.Training: Completion of the Paralegal Apprentice course in residence is mandatory. The course six weeks at Maxwell, AFB,Ala.Application package must include:- Cover sheet - Letter of application (what you can bring to the position) - Resume -Current passing fitness assessmentRIP (record of individual personnel) - Commander concurrence (email to 104FW/CCC) - Letter of recommendation (optional)Application Procedures: Mail/e-mail to Lt Col Robin Peterson, Staff Judge Advocate, 104 th FW/JA, Barnes ANGB, 175 FalconDrive, Westfield, MA 01085. You may also email your resume to robinpeterson@cox.net.Someone is WatchingBy Col. EJ Gunning, 104th FW Mission Support Group CommanderYou may have heard some talk concerning ‗data visibility‘ or ‗transparency‘ lately – what is thatabout? Basically, in today‘s environment where everything is done using computer systems, the datacontained in those systems is available at all levels – wing, ANG, Air Force, DoD, and beyond. Usingtop-level programs that are designed for ―data mining‖, decision makers at all levels can see what isgoing on, who made the entry and for what purpose. The bottom line … there‘s almost nothing we dothat can‘t be analyzed and/or scrutinized by others.Whether filling-out a travel voucher in DTS, submitting your timecard, declaring your dependentstatus for a BAH recertification, using your Government Travel Card/Controlled Spend Account, submittingan AROWS order for pay, requesting/using compensatory time … the list goes on forever …just do the right thing. It‘s simple, really. NOT doing the right thing – maybe playing a little ―fastand loose‖ with an expense submitted on a travel voucher – will come back to haunt you. And, if theissue is serious enough, it could become a problem for the 104th Fighter Wing, the Air National Guard or even higher. By now,everyone has heard about the issue in the California ANG with dual-compensation for some of their members. I think the rootcause of that deal was folk‘s not paying attention to the details, and maybe doing things that they knew weren‘t completely legal.End result – people were fired, and in some cases, are facing criminal charges.Another very important requirement is to make sure your personal information contained in these systemsis correct, especially the data that affects your entitlements, like marital status, official residence, etc. We have had anissue or two here in the 104th Fighter Wing with outside agencies involved in the fact finding process. While there were no―culture issues‖ within the wing, there was an issue or two where members failed to update systems correctly. The transparentnature of today‘s computer-centric workplace makes everything we do visible at all levels of DoD. With shrinking budgetsacross the board, the public demands that we make efficient use of the funds we‘re allocated … and the auditors are standing byto check that we‘re meeting that requirement. Bottom line, make sure you always do the right thing, and if there are systemquestions about how to do things right, seek help up the chain of command.

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPFor Your InformationPAGE 16

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPFor Your InformationPAGE 17MDG Training Manager Position Available104th Fighter WingTraining Manager for the 104th MDG.The 104th MDG is looking for a traditional guardsmanto fill our training manager position. We are looking foran energetic and knowledgeable individual. Interestedindividuals must understand principles, policies, andprocedures of Air Force Education and Training programs;interviewing and counseling techniques; trainingtechniques and instruction methods; task analysis procedures,learning process, curriculum development, trainingevaluations, and Education and Training systemsand products; effective writing skills; editing practices;instructional media application, training reporting, programand curriculum validation, and implementationprocedures; training program management; schedulingtraining events and facilities; conducting assistance visitsand training meetings; work center and individual jobqualification standard development; education institutionregistration requirements; military personnel classificationsystem and policies; application of communicativeinterpersonal skills. Knowledge of AFTR computertraining and tracking program.This individual administers all Education and Trainingprograms, serving as the MDG Education and Trainingprogram manager responsible directly to the MDG/CC.They consults on ISD process and career field Educationand Training plans (CFETP). They advise on: Educationand Training materials and services; conducts work centervisits, and organizes programs to develop and conductjob site training. Identifies Education and Trainingproviders, capabilities, and resources, and ensures availabilityof materials. Recommends revisions to Educationand Training programs and CFETPs. Records and evaluatesthe history of Education and Training achievements,establish goals, and enroll in classes, courses,and programs. Prepares and maintains records, files,and materials.If interested in the position please contact Col. Sean Collinsat : sean.collins@ang.af.mil or Master Sgt. MarnieWallace at marnie.wallace@ang.af.milALUMNI REUNION INFORMATIONDate: Wednesday, March 21Location: NCO ClubSocial Hour: 6 p.m.Dinner: 7 p.m.Cost $14.00Menu: New England boiled dinner, corned beef & cabbage,boiled potatoes, carrots, rolls & butter, and dessert.SPECIAL ANNOUNCEMENTWelcome to our first 2012 reunion. Hope that youhave enjoyed the holidays and the mild winter.IMPORTANT - PLEASE READAs we all know the cost of fuel and groceries are continuingto rise and until now our caterer has beenable to maintain the price on our dinners. Startingwith this reunion the cost of the dinner will be increasingby $1.00, bringing the overall cost from$13.00 to $14.00 per person. This is the first increasein several years and we will continue to do our best tominimize the expenses.The reunion schedule for 2012 is: March 21, May 16,July 18 (at the Common Ground restaurant), September19, and November 14.REGISTRATION INFORMATIONSend your $14.00 reservation check to Len Frigon,778 West Street, Ludlow, MA 01056 IMMEDIATELYto be included on the list for Security Police and for adinner reservation.Checks must be made payable to 104th MASS.ANGALUMNI ASSOCIATION. List the names of allguests in the memo section of your check to assureaccess to the base. Please DO NOT make checks payableto Len.Checks MUST be received by 5:00 p.m., Monday,March 19, NO EXCEPTIONS. Cancellations receivedby the cut off date and time reflected above will receivea full refundIf you have any questions you may call Pam Spear at413.569.2422 or Len Frigon at 413.589.9157Hope to see you on March 21, guests are always welcome.

MARCH 2012TRICARE Retiree Dental ProgramThe TRICARE Retiree Dental Program is available to allmilitary retirees (including gray area retirees) and theireligible family members, unremarried surviving spousesand their eligible children, as well as MOH recipientsand their eligible immediate family members. The programcovers cleanings, exams, fillings, root canals, gumsurgery, oral surgery and dental accidents on the firstday that coverage becomes effective; after 12 months ofbeing in the program, it then covers crowns, bridges,partials, braces and dental implants. (New retirees whoenroll within four months after retirement from the UniformedServices or transfer to Retired Reserve status areeligible to waive the 12-month waiting period for majorservices; supporting documentation is required)The Enhanced TRDP provides every enrollee an annualmaximum of $1,200 per person ($1,000 for Basic Programenrollees), a $1000 annual maximum for dentalaccidents and a $1500 lifetime maximum for orthodontics.It is important to note that the money that theTRDP pays out for preventive and diagnostic servicesdoesn‘t count against the annual maximum – those benefitsare in addition to the $1200. Retirees can find moreinformation on the program, as well as enroll 24/7/365,online at trdp.org.TRDP enrollees realize the maximum program savings(an average of 22%) when seeing a network provider. Tofind a network provider, as well as utilize the ConsumerToolkit to print ID cards, view annual maximum information,see if claims have been paid and sign up for e-mail updates, please visit trdp.org.If you have any questions or need any assistance, pleasecall Doug Schobel at 401-732-0297 or e-mail him atDschobel@delta.org.AIRSCOOPFor Your InformationPAGE 18Participating TRICARE Retiree Dental Programnetwork dentists provide a trifecta ofmaximum savings, quality care and added valueEnrollees in the TRICARE Retiree Dental Program(TRDP) have both the advantage of broad access to qualitydental care and the benefit of having much of the costof that care offset by Delta Dental—helping them protecttheir oral health and their wallet at the same time.Although Delta Dental pays a large part of TRDPenrollees‘ dental costs, there is a third way enrollees cansave money on their dental care: by seeing a participatingTRDP network dentist. The network offered by DeltaDental is made up of dentists in over 170,000 locationsnationwide who have agreed to accept significantly lowerfees for treating patients who are enrolled in the TRDP.By seeing a TRDP network dentist, an enrollee‘s copaymentscan decrease by 22 percent. Lower network dentistfees means TRDP enrollees not only have smallercopayments, but also that less money is deducted fromtheir annual maximum, which translates into more moneybeing left in their pockets—all without having to compromiseon the quality of their dental care.Besides agreeing to accept lower fees for TRDP coveredservices, network dentists haveagreed to provide theseadditional value-addedservices to save enrolleestime, paperwork,and even more money:• Adhere to Delta Dental‘squality-of-care standards• Submit predeterminationsof cost for more extensivetreatment, at no charge• Bill enrollees only for their applicable deductibleand copayment at the time of serviceWebsite: trdp.org toll-freeTelephone: 888-838-8737Video link:http://www.trdp.org/dwnld/420x236.wmvMr. Doug Schobel, regional representativefor the TRICARE Retiree Dental ProgramDSchobel@delta.org• Prepare and submit all TRDP claims paperworkand related documentation• Accept the lower, agreed-upon network fees as paymentin full• Accept payment directly from Delta DentalEnrollees can find a TRDP network dentist in theirarea, as well as view more information on the program,by visiting trdp.org. If you have any questions or needassistance, please feel free to call Doug Schobel at 401-732-0297 or e-mail him at dschobel@delta.org.

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPFor Your InformationPAGE 192012 M2012 MASSACHUSETTSMILITARYASSETBUILDING&FREETAXASSISTANCEPROGRAMDURING THE 2012 TAX SEASON, THE MA JOINT SUPPORT FAMILY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMWILL BE OFFERING ALL SERVICEMEMBERS AND THEIR FAMILIES OF ALL COMPONENTS INTHE MILITARY FREE TAX PREPARATION AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS AROUND MASSACHU-SETTS. THESE SITES WILL PROVIDE TAX PREPARATION & ASSET BUILDING OPPORTUNI-TIES.LOCATIONS:Wellesley, Cape Cod, Milford, Reading, Westover AFB, Worcester. Sites will be open Mon-Sat and hourswill vary by location.DATES:The tax sites will open starting the week of January 30th and run until the last day of the tax season,April 16th. Appointments can be made starting January 23rd.ELIGIBILITY:Service members and their dependents who served in any component of the Armed Services in 2011, MilitaryRetirees and OEF/OIF Veterans are eligible for this free service.WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS TO USING THIS SERVICE?SAVING $$$ (The average tax return costs $200). Don‘t pay $ for something that you can get it done forfree. Our volunteers are certified and some are tax professionals. You will not get a bigger refund goingto a paid preparer.WHAT ASSET BUILDING OPPORTUNITIES WILL I BEMADE AWARE OF AT THE SITES?After you determine what your refund will be, you will be given opportunities to put that refund to useby being made aware of information on: paying off debt; contributing to the Thrift Savings Program, 529Plans, IRAs, 401(k)s and other savings vehicles; using part of the refund to purchase Savings Bonds;joining the Military Saves campaign; and working with a financial counselor in addition to other greatasset building opportunities.WHAT SHOULD I BRING WITHME TO THE SITE?Proof of identification. Social Security Cards for you, your spouse and dependents. Completed IntakeSheet. Wage and earnings statements fromW-2,W-2G and 1099-Rs. Interest and dividend statementsfrom Form 1099. A copy of last year‘s federal and state return (if available). Form 1098 from your mortgage.Bank routing #‘s and account numbers for Direct Deposit. Total paid for daycare provider and pro-TO MAKE AN APPOINTMENT, EMAIL: ma-taxes@ng.army.milFOR MORE INFORMATION ON THE PROGRAM CALL 781-431-0197

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPFor Your InformationTips on controlling those sugar cravingsBy Lt. Col. Anita Compagnone, Health PromotionPAGE 20If you're craving sugar, here aresome ways to tame those cravings.Give in a little. Eat a bit of whatyou‘re craving, maybe a small cookieor a fun-size candy bar, suggestsKerry Neville, MS, a registered dietitian(RD) and American Dietetic Associationspokeswoman. Enjoying alittle of what you love can help yousteer clear of feeling denied.Go cold turkey. Cutting out allsimple sugars works for some people,although "the initial 48 to 72 hoursare tough," says Christine Gerbstadt,MD, and RD. Some people find thatgoing cold turkey helps their cravingsdiminish after a few days; othersfind they may still crave sugarbut over time are able to train theirtaste buds to be satisfied with less.Grab some gum. If you want toavoid giving in to a sugar cravingcompletely, try chewing a stick ofgum, says nutrition advisor DaveGrotto, RD. "Research has shownthat chewing gum can reduce foodcravings.‖Reach for fruit. Keep fruit handyfor when sugar cravings hit. You'llget fiber and nutrients along withsome sweetness.Get up and go. When a sugarcraving hits, take a walk, go for a runor do something to take your mind offthe food you‘re craving.Choose quality over quantity. Ifyou need a sugar fix, pick somethingyou love, but keep it small. For example,choose a dark chocolate truffleinstead of a king-sized candy barand savor every bite. Grotto says:"Don‘t swear off favorites -- you‘llonly come back for greater portions.‖Eat regularly. Waiting too longbetween meals may set you up tochoose sugary or fatty foods. Try eatingevery three to five hours to helpavoid erratic eating behavior. Bestbets? Protein, fiber-rich foods likewhole grains and produce are greatchoices.Remember: The problem comesnot when we indulge in a sweet treatnow and then, but when we overconsume.Lastly, go easy on yourself as itmay take a while to change your habits;but it will lead to a healthier you!Reference used: WebMD2012 Pioneer Valley ClubCHALLENGECOINSCharity Game for Fisher House FoundationAt the MassMutual Center in Springfield, MATwo games, One ticketMercier vs. Gateway @ 4 p.m. & Falcons vs. SyracuseCrunch @ 7 p.m.New coins have been ordered and will be availablefor the March UTA!Celebrate 50 years of 131st / 104th deploymentsA tribute to the Phalsbourg, France deploymentduring the Berlin Crisis ~ Coins are priced at $10Saturday, March 10! Tickets $12.00http://www.fisherhouse.org/about/For tickets, contact Tech. Sgt. Nicole Picard at nicolepicard@ymail.comSt Patrick’s Day at the ClubCome join your Irish-for-a-Day Friendsat the NC-O’club on Saturday March 3DJ & Karaoke …’Darts… & O’Pool,Shuffle board too.

MARCH 2012AIRSCOOPPAGE 21Welcome to new membersMichael Sielis SFS 13 Jan 2012Russ Piggott 131 FS 15 Jan 2012Joseph Adamowicz MXS 21 Jan 2012Aisha Tosado 131 FS 26 Jan 2012Anthony Dieni SFS 27 Jan 2012Katie Gauvin LRS 8 Feb 2012Congratulations on your RetirementsBrandy Mimitz LRS 27 Feb 2012Thomas Bigos LRS 29 Feb 2012Jerry Rajotte AMXS 6 Mar 2012Stephen Puopolo MXS 10 Mar 2012Michelle Bush CPTF 14 Mar 2012Armand Lamour CES 31 Mar 2012Michael O‘Neil MXS 29 Apr 2012Rosanne Frieri FW 17 May 2012Susan Pennison FSS 20 May 2012Keith Buckhout MXS 14 Jun 2012George Labonte MXS 14 Jun 2012Dennis Hudgins MXS 20 Jun 2012Robert Gleason LRS 25 Jun 2012CCTV broadcast line upChannel 7 - Training videos & Base InfoChannel 9 - Warrior NetworkChannel 10 - Pentagon ChannelAncillary training schedule - channel 7MorningTraining Video0900-0940 Forklift Fundamentals and Ops0940-1013 Confined Space Awareness1013-1023 Basic Ladder Safety1023-1053 Lockout/Tagout1053-1101 FOD Prevention1101-1108 Copyright InfringementCongratulations on your PromotionsTo Senior Airman (E-4)Stephen DrubinJaun RodriguezDominic Scapin104FW MXS104FW MXS104FW MXSTimothy Wachta 104FW MXSTo Staff Sgt. (E-5)Thomas Ambrose 104FW AMXSMichael Burkhart 104FW AMXSGregory Gay104FW FWJennifer McGrath 104FW FSSJames MerkelDaniel SoaresTo Tech. Sgt. (E-6)Andrew EverettThomas LandonJason LoringJoshua Read104FW MXS104FW MXS104FW MXS104FW LRS104FW MXS104FW 131 FSChristine Willette 104FW MDGRobert ZacharaReligions notes:Ecumenical time ofPrayer & ReflectionSaturday, 6:50 to 7:20 a.m.in the Chaplain’s OfficeProtestant Services:104FW MXSSaturday, 4 p.m.in the building 1 Conference RoomCatholic Services:Saturday, 4 p.m.in the Base Chapel, building 12Afternoon Training Video1300-1340 Forklift Fundamentals and Ops1340-1413 Confined Space Awareness1413-1423 Basic Ladder Safety1423-1453 Lockout/Tagout1453-1501 FOD Prevention1501-1508 Copyright Infringement

MARCH 2012This Month in HistoryMarch Historical EventsMarch 19, 1910 - Orville Wright opened the firstWright Flying School at Montgomery, Ala. Thissite became Maxwell AFB, Ala.March 7, 1924 - Lt. Eugene Hoy Barksdale andhis navigator, Lt. Bradley Jones flew a DH-4B,powered by 400 horsepower Liberty engine fromMcCook Field, Ohio to Mitchel Field, N.Y., usinginstruments only.March 1, 1935 - The War Department activatedan air combat command called GeneralHeadquarters Air Force at Langley Field, Va.This action centralized nationwide command overall Army Air Corps combat units under a singleair officer, Frank M. Andrews.March 21, 1946 - The Strategic Air Command,Tactical Air Command and the Air DefenseCommand are created.March 20, 1959 - The site in Cheyenne Mountain,Colo., was approved as the location for NORAD.March 2, 1971 - The U.S. Air Force introduces apolicy permitting women who become pregnant toremain on active duty or to be discharged andreturn to duty within 12 months of discharge.March 1, 1973 - Fairchild-Republic received acontract a contract for the A-10.March 1, 1973 - McDonnell-Douglas receivedproduction approval for the first 30 operational F-15s.March 10, 1977 - The first woman navigatorcandidates report to Mather AFB, Calif., to beginundergraduate navigator training.March 11, 1986 - An Air Force ProgramManagement Directive sought a night and underthe-weathersurface attack capability for the F-15.March 2, 1987 - The first F-15E arrived atEdwards AFB, Calif., for flight testing.March 24, 1999 - Operation Allied Force began.The USAF portion was code named Noble Anvil.The air war began with 250 U.S. aircraftcommitted. Some 720 U.S.aircraft wereeventually deployed, including 517 USAF types --40 A-10, 18 F-15C, 32 F-15E, 35 F-16CG, 64 F-16CJ, 25 F-117, 11 B-52, 5 B-1, 6 B-2, 151 KC-135, 24 KC-10, 25 various ISR, 38 SpecialOperations/CSAR/other and 43 transports.March 26, 1999 - An F-15 shot down two MiG-29sin aerial combat over Yugoslavia on the third dayof Operation Allied Force.AIRSCOOPPAGE 22MASSACHUSETTSAIR NATIONAL GUARDBarnes Air National Guard Base175 Falcon DriveWestfield, MA 01805www.104fw.ang.af.milSocial Media Sites:www.facebook.com/barnesangwww.twitter.com/104fighterwingwww.flickr.com/photos/barnesangbPRIDE,PROFESSIONALISM,PATRIOTISMWe’re on the WebWWW.104FW.ANG.AF.MILCopyright (c) 2010 104th Fighter Wing Air National Guard.All rights reserved. This funded Air Force newspaper is anauthorized publication for members of the U.S. Militaryservices. Contents of the AIRSCOOP are not necessarily theofficial views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, theDepartment of Defense, the Department of the Air Force orthe Air National Guard.