1) ATQ Spring 2006 Pages - Airlift/Tanker Association

CONTENTS…Association NewsChairman’s Comments......................................................................... 2President’s Message ............................................................................... 3AIRLIFT TANKER QUARTERLYVolume 14 • Number 2 • Spring 2006Airlift/Tanker Quarterly is published fourtimes a year by the Airlift/Tanker Association,Col. Barry F. Creighton, USAF (Ret.), Secretary,1708 Cavelletti Court, Virginia Beach, VA 23454.(757) 838-3037. Postage paid at Belleville, IL.. The Airlift/Tanker Association is a non-profitprofessional organization dedicated to providinga forum for people interested in improving thecapability of U.S. air mobility forces. Membershipin the Airlift/Tanker Association is $30 annually or$85 for three years. Full-time student membershipis $10 per year. Life membership is $400.Corporate membership includes five individualmemberships and is $1200 per year. Membershipdues include a subscription to Airlift/TankerQuarterly, and are subject to change. Subscriptionrate: $30 per year (subject to change). Changeof address requires four weeks notice. Sendchange of address information to Bud Traynor:Email: ata@atalink.org; Mail: Bud Traynor, 9312Convento Terrace, Fairfax, VA 22031.Airlift/Tanker Quarterly is published for theuse of subscribers, officers, advisors and membersof the Airlift/Tanker Association.The appearance of articles or advertisements,including inserts, in Airlift/Tanker Quarterlydoes not constitute an endorsement by theAirlift/Tanker Association, the Air MobilityCommand, the Department of the Air Force orthe Department of Defense, of the viewpoints,products or services mentioned or advertised.©2006. Articles appearing in this publicationmay not be reprinted, in any form, withoutprior written approval from the Airlift/TankerAssociation.Airlift/Tanker Quarterly is mailed on or aboutthe 30th day of January, April, July and Octoberof each year. The copy deadline for stories,articles, letters, etc., is as follows: Winter Edition– December 30th; Spring Edition – March 30th;Summer Edition – June 30th; Fall ConventionEdition – August 30th.Airlift/Tanker Quarterly accepts advertisingonly for the Fall Convention Edition.EDITORIAL STAFF:Gen. Ron Fogleman, USAF, RetiredChairman, Board of OfficersMr. Collin R. BakseEditor and Art DirectorLt. Col. Nicky McCollough, USAF, RetiredBusiness ManagerCol. Ronald E. Owens, USAF RetiredEditorial AdvisorCol. Gregory Cook, USAFPublic Affairs CoordinatorMs. Dawn L. BakseEditorial and Advertising CoordinatorPRINTED IN U.S.A.Secretary’s Notes ................................................................................... 3Association Round-Up .......................................................................... 4Treasurer’s Report – 2005 A/TA Year End Financial Report ............... 6-7Cover StoryFocus on Enlisted Training and Education .................................. 9-14A look at some of the new and demanding ways that Air Forceenlisted personnel are being prepared for the Global War on TerrorFeaturesRamstein and Spangdahlem Go Full Throttle............................ 16-21The new “Gateways to Europe and Beyond”DepartmentsMobility News & Views.................................................................. 25-27Mobility Heritage & Heroes ........................................................... 28-29Corporate Close-Up ............................................................................ 30Corporate Member Spotlight: ASMBA................................................ 312006 Convention & Symposium Rules of Engagement ...............22-242006 Convention & Symposium Registration Form ........................32ON THE COVER: Members of the 43rd Air Evacuation Squadron at Pope Air Force Base, N.C.,provide security for a C-130 Hercules evacuating patients during annual medical field trainingat Fort Bragg, N.C., on Thursday, 6 April 2006, as part of the squadron’s annual medical fieldtraining to prepare squadron members for real world deployments. (U.S. Air Force photo byMSgt Jack Braden)A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 20061

Some Things Change…Some Don’tHopefully you noticed a change on theinside covers of this edition of A/TQ. In placeof the normal Association and Chaptercontact listings (which are on page 8) thereare two advertisements aimed at gettingfuture advertising support for the Winter,Spring and Summer editions of the quarterly.While this is a step away from late A/TAChairman General “Dutch” Huyser’s vision ofkeeping those three editions of the quarterly“advertising free” to, in his words, “…havethe membership think of the A/TQ more asa ‘journal’ covering air mobility interests,than as a ‘revenue source,’” it is a step wellworth taking.As the Association continues to grow innumbers, and printing and postage ratescontinue to climb, adding two, and onlytwo, advertisements to help offset the cost ofthose three editions of the quarterly seemsfinancially responsible. Personally, I think“Dutch,” whose vision and guidance for thefuture of the A/TA were instrumental to theAssociation’s success in so many ways, wouldagree with this decision.And, while on the subject of change…on the back cover you will notice thatAssociation membership dues will be goingup soon…so, if you need to renew yourmembership or want to encourage a friendto join, get the money in before 1 June.That covers the “some things change” part– now for “some don’t” part:One thing that won’t change is the A/TA’scommitment to making enlisted personnel feelthey are intregal and important membersof the ‘A/TA Family.’ That’s why the SpringEdition of A/TQ, traditionally devoted to‘enlisted interests,’ is once again payingattention to these stalwart men and women,who have dedicated themselves to thepreservation of freedom in a dangerousworld. They deserve all the attention theycan get. And, they deserve the best trainingpossible before going bravely into harm’sway. While it would take reams of paper todiscuss the myriad ways in which Air Forceenlisted personnel are trained and educated,this edition’s cover story focuses on some ofthe unique new and demanding techniquesbeing used to help better prepare them forthe challenges they will meet while participatingin the Global War on Terror.Another thing that won’t change is A/TQ’scommitment to including stories and articlessubmitted by Association members. If yourChapter has an event, we want to hear aboutit, and let the rest of the membership learnfrom it. If you have a story of interest to theair mobility community that you want totell, we want to hear about that too. Keepthose cards and letters (and especially thosee-mails) coming!Collin R. Bakse, editorChairman’sCOMMENTSGen Ron FoglemanUSAF, RetThe Decisive EdgeSpringtime….when we see the transformation of the landscapefrom the beauty and bleakness of winter to the vibrant regenerationof life and vigor in nature…and your Association leadership meets torefine the planning process for the annual convention. Our recentBoard meeting was admirably hosted by the Charleston Chapter andgave the board members and our advisors the opportunity to receive areport from the ad hoc committee on the cost overrun associated withthe 2005 convention, receive reports from the responsible officerson the health of the organization and choose a theme for the 2006convention. While engaged in this business we were able to engage insome fellowship and camaraderie with the troops at Charleston.As relates to the 2005 convention cost overrun, retired GeneralsDuane Cassidy and Al Hansen, along with Chief Master Sergeant Dave Pelletier produceda report that GeneralCassidy presented to theBoard. The report clearlypointed to some internaland external controls andconsiderations we mustput in place to prevent areoccurrence. The bottomline was no wrongfulactions on anyone’s part,but a need to recognizethe Association and theannual convention havegrown to a size that willrequire us to take a muchmore deliberate approachto planning and executingthe mission of providingsupport to America’s AirMobility Warriors. Moredetail is available in thereports of officers andcommittee chairs foundin this edition of theQuarterly.The selection of ourtheme was unanimous:“America’s Air MobilityTeam – The Decisive Edge:Active, Guard, Reserveand CRAF.” Everyonein attendance thoughtthe theme caught thespirit and reality of AirMobility in support of theNational Security Strategy.Clearly the air mobilityConvention Rules of Engagement – Pages 22-24capability provided toour National CommandAuthority comes from ateam effort. What littlewe know about the lastConvention Registration Form – Page 32Mobility Requirements Study makes it clear the mission cannot be accomplished withoutthe coordination and interdependency of the Active, Guard, Reserve and Civil Reserve AirFleets…and the men and women who make them work.2 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

AssociationROUND-UPHafa Adai ChapterHafa Adai Chapter Hosts AMCCommander at LuncheonMembers of the Airlift/Tanker Association,Hafa Adai Chapter; the National DefenseTransportation Association, MicronesiaChapter; the Logistics Officer Association,Arc Light Chapter; and the 734 th AirMobility Squadron’s Top-4 hostedGeneral Duncan J. McNabb, Commander,Air Mobility Command at a luncheonHafa Adai Executive council memberspose with General McNabb. Left to right:President, SMSgt Bill Mahaffey; VicePresident, MSgt Bob Winiecki; Secretary,SSgt Chris Morss; AMC Commander,General Duncan McNabb; Treasurer, TSgtKen Duran; Historian, SSgt Rich Sanborn;734 AMS Commander, Lt Col Keith Boone.(Hafa Adai Chapter photo).held March 16, 2006 at the OceanviewConference Center, Andersen AFB, Guam.There were approximately 120 guests inattendance and Master of Ceremonies wasthe President of the Hafa Adai Chapter,SMSgt Bill Mahaffey.The General passed some powerfulwords to the audience in a speechcentered on the theme, “ProtectingTomorrow”. His praise of the membersof the U.S. Armed Forces, with the aidof civilian counterparts and commercialpartnerships in fighting the Global Waron Terrorism was heartfelt and insightful.SMSgt Mahaffey and his Commander, LtCol Keith Boone, also a Hafa Adai chaptermember, presented General McNabb witha traditional Guam “Latte Stone” onbehalf of all four organizations.General McNabb was on a Pacific tour ofAMC en routes with key members of his staffand had stopped at Guam to visit with themembers of 734 AMS.Low Country ChapterLow Country Chapter HostsA/TA National BoardThe Low Country Chapter extendeda true Lowcountry welcome to theNational Board during its Winter BoardMeeting 15-18 March at Charleston AFB,South Carolina. The Chapter’s hospitalityincluded arranging for space for the Boardto hold two important meetings, the HOFNomination Committee Meeting and aQuarterly Board Meeting, as well as aninvitation to a Chapter meeting and socialevent. The Board’s visit to Charlestoncoincided with a visit to base by VicePresident Dick Cheney.Cheney visited “Team Charleston,”home of the 437th Airlift Wing, topraise the airmen who have beenflying transport missions supportingthe war on terror. The unit fliesthe C-17 Globemaster III aircraft, aworkhorse of operations in both Iraqand Afghanistan as it delivers troopsand cargo to the theater.The base also is home of the Air ForceReserve’s 315th Airlift Wing.The vice president met the crowdin an aircraft hanger, approachingthe podium to the tune of “HailColumbia” as Col. Glen Joerger, 437thAirlift Wing commander, introducedhim to the group.Cheney congratulated theservicemembers for their contributionsin the war on terror and to humanitarianmissions around the world.“These are eventful times for ourcountry, and Team Charleston is atthe center of a great many criticalassignments,” Cheney told the group.“The work you do here – every dayand around the clock – is helping toMembers of the National Board and the LowCountry Chapter during the Board’s visit toCharleston AFB for a Quarterly Board Meeting.(A/TA photo by Pam Traynor).sustain the U.S. military in the war onterror. That war goes on; and thanks inpart to all of you, it’s a war that we’regoing to win.”Cheney also thanked familymembers who stand behind America’smen and women in uniform. “Militaryservice, both active and reserve, alsomakes many demands on spouses andon children,” he said. “At this base,and in military communities all acrossthe country, servicemen and womenand their loved ones are making alot of sacrifices for the nation. TheAmerican people are grateful to all ofour military families.”Vice President Dick Cheney speaks to acrowd of more than 2,750 military membersand their families at Charleston AFB,S.C., 17 March 2006. The Vice Presidentalso presented three Bronze Stars duringthe ceremony(U.S. Air Force photo by A1CNicholas Pilch)During the ceremony, the vicepresident presented Bronze Stars Awardsto three airmen for accomplishmentsduring Operation Iraqi Freedom.Receiving the awards were ChiefMaster Sgt. Michael Schmiege of the315th Civil Engineer Squadron, ChiefMaster Sgt. Ronald Owens of the 437thMission Support Group and Tech. Sgt.Carl McCoy of the 437th SecurityForces Squadron.One of the Bronze Star recipients,Chief Master Sgt. Ronald Owens, saidmorale is the highest he has seen in his22 years in the Air Force.“We have a world-class airlift missionhere,” Owens said. “When you seeanything happening in Iraq and payclose attention to those airplanes, you’regoing to see something written aboutCharleston on there.”4 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • • Winter Spring 2005 2006 5

2005 A/TA Year EndFinancial ReportCol (ret) John J. Murphy, Jr., A/TA Treasurer2005 STATEMENT OF FINANCIAL POSITIONASSETSCash ......................................................................... $357,084Investments - US Treasury........................................... $50,000Investment - CSX Stock .............................................. $10,154Inventory - Logo Items ................................................. $1,648Property and equipment.................................................. $121Total Assets ......................................................... $419,006LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETSLiabilitiesAccounts Payable and Accrued Expenses ............................. $0Total Liabilities ............................................................... $0Net AssetsUnrestricted.............................................................. $406,178Temporarily restricted (Memorial)............................... $12,829Total Net Assets................................................... $419,006TOTAL LIABILITIES AND NET ASSETS................$419,0062005 STATEMENT OF ACTIVITIESUNRESTRICTED NET ASSETSUnrestricted revenues, gains and other supportCorporate Memberships.....................................$72,540Individual Memberships ...................................$173,925Convention Booths...........................................$637,400Convention Registrations..................................$846,778Magazine Advertising .........................................$41,855Dividends .............................................................$8,554Unrealized Gain/Loss on Securities........................$2,138Interest.................................................................$1,332Logo Sales, Net ..................................................... ($195)Total Unrestricted Revenues, etc. ......$1,785,314Net Assets Released from RestrictionsRestrictions Satisfied by Payments.......................$13,886Total Unrestricted Revenues, Etc.................$1,799,200EXPENSESProgram Services...........................................$1,876,748Management and General................................$120,217Total Expenses....................................$1,996,965Decrease in Unrestricted Net Assets... ($197,765)TEMPORARILY RESTRICTED NET ASSETSAward Donations..................................................$1,020Scholarship Fund..................................................$3,324Net Assets Released from RestrictionsRestrictions Satisfied by Payments ........... ($13,886)Decrease in Temporarily Restricted Net Assets .... ($9,542)Decrease in Net Assets........................ ($207,307)NET ASSETS AT BEGINNING OF YEAR ............. $626,313NET ASSETS AT END OF QUARTER .................. $419,0066 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

The Airlift/Tanker Association’s financial statementsfor the year 2005 are published here in the Spring Edition ofthe Airlift/Tanker Quarterly as required by our By-Laws. TheStatement of Financial Position and Statement of Activitiesare prepared by a Certified Public Accountant (CPA) as apart of our annual financial review and 2005 income taxfiling process.As you can see from our Statement of Activities, weexperienced a loss in 2005 which can be attributed to ourannual convention – a convention that has sustained doubledigitgrowth over the past few years. As Gen Fogleman saidin the last issue of the magazine, we are “not going to employ lipstick to gloss over theobvious.” We are taking steps to prevent this from occurring again. We have analyzedwhat happened and now have a better understanding of what is required to deliver anevent of this magnitude, and how to manage the event within budget. Your Associationremains in solid financial shape and we will continue to provide the highest qualityservices to our membership.2005 STATEMENT OF FUNCTIONAL EXPENSESFUNCTIONAL EXPENSE PROGRAM SERVICES MANAGEMENT FUND RASING TOTALAwards $27,103 $0 $0 $27,103Scholarship & ETG $4,400 $0 $0 $4,400Bank Service Fees $25,495 $0 $0 $25,495Convention $1,683,528 $0 $0 $1,683,528Depreciation $241 $0 $0 $241Insurance Premiums $0 $2,445 $0 $2,445Magazine $111,430 $0 $0 $111,430Administration $0 $113,477 $0 $113,477Postage & Reproduction $435 $0 $0 $435Secretary $0 $41 $0 $41Memorial Expense $9,542 $0 $0 $9,542Travel/Board Expense $14,575 $0 $0 $14,575Treasurer $0 $4,253 $0 $4,253$1,876,748 $120,217 $0 $1,996,065QuickTakesGen. McNabb Visits Andersen AFBGeneral Duncan McNabb, Air MobilityCommand commander, visited AndersenAFB, Guam, accompanied by his wife, Linda,and four other general officers from theHeadquarters AMC staff on 15 March. Thevisit was part of an AMC Pacific en routesystem tour that included stops at KadenaAB, Okinawa; Osan AB, Korea; and HickamAFB, Hawaii. During his Andersen visit,General McNabb spoke with air mobilityprofessionals from the 734th AMS, the 44thAPS, and the 128th ARW deployed with the506th Expeditionary ARS tanker task force.Army and Air Force Seek Joint Cargo AircraftBy 2010, both the Army and the Air Forcemay be flying the same aircraft to provideairlift inside places like Afghanistan and Iraq.The Secretary of Defense has given approvalfor the two service branches to work togetherto purchase the aircraft. The Army has beencalling it a “Future Cargo Aircraft,” while theAir Force calls it a “Light Cargo Aircraft.” Butultimately, those names will be gone in favorof “Joint Cargo Aircraft.” The Joint CargoAircraft will be a small aircraft – smaller thanthe Air Force’s C-130 Hercules, but largerthan the Army’s C-23 Sherpa. Most likely, theaircraft will be a variant of an aircraft alreadyavailable in the civilian sector, and themanufacturer will modify it for military use.Single C-17 Breaks Airdrop RecordSouthwest Asia - A single Air Force C-17Globemaster III airdropped 32,400 pounds ofhumanitarian aid within 40 minutes to fourlocations in central and eastern Afghanistanon 16 March. The feat marked the most cargoairdropped to that many drop-zones in theshortest amount of time from a single aircraftin the history of U.S. airdrop operations.The C-17 and accompanying aircrew weredeployed to the 379th Air Expeditionary Wingfrom McChord Air Force Base, Washington.C-17 Finds Home at Hickam AFBWhen “The Spirit of Hawaii Ke Aloha” landedon the flightline at Hickam AFB, Hawaii,in early February, it delivered a new era ofair operations for the Pacific Air Forces andthe U.S. Pacific Command. Hickam is thefirst base outside the continental U.S. topermanently host the strategic airlifters. Bythe end of the year the base will be home toeight C-17 Globemaster IIIs.Ordering, Shipping and Tracking Made EasierAir Mobility Command moved toward asupply process transformation on 29 Marchwhen the Regional Supply Squadron atScott AFB, Illinois, was re-designated as theMobility Logistics Support Center. The centerwill provide mobility air forces with one stopfor ordering, shipping and tracking suppliesto troops worldwide.A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 20067

Association & ChapterCONTACTSBoard of Officers & StaffChairman Board of OfficersGen Ronald R Fogleman USAF Retrfbuzzard1@aol.comPresidentCMSgt Mark A Smith USAF Retmsmith@ssai.orgSr Vice PresidentMaj Gen Richard C Marr USAF Retbuck.marr@lmco.comVP ProgramsCol Dennis L Murphy USAF Retmurphydl@state.govSecretaryCol Barry F Creighton USAF Retbarry.creighton@lmco.comTreasurerCol John J Murphy Jr USAF Retjohn.murphy@boeing.comVP Industry AffairsCol Robert E Dawson USAF Retdawsonre13@comcast.netLegal AdvisorBrig Gen James W Swanson USAF Retjames.w.swanson@dhs.govParlimentarianMaj Wesley L Marsh Jrwesley.marsh@scott.af.milMembership/Convention RegistrarDennis W Traynor IIIata@atalink.orgmis@budtraynor.comBoard of AdvisorsChairman Board of AdvisorsMaj Gen James I Baginski USAF Retjibagger@aol.comBoard of AdvisorsCMSgt William M Cannon USAF Retbcloader@aol.comLt Col Ted E Carter JrGeneC17@aol.comCol Robert F Ellington USAF RetRElling900@aol.comSMSgt Regina L Hoctorregina.hoctor@scott.af.milLt Col Phillip A Iannuzzi Jrpiannuzzi@afsouth.nato.intLt Col Walter L Isenhourwalter.isenhour@pentagon.af.milGen Walter Kross USAF Retwkross@flightexplorer.comCWO4 Richard J Langstraat USA Retceleste.miller@aarcorp.comCol Paul E McVickar USAF RetPaul.E.McVickar@saic.comGen William G Moore USAF Ret615-790-3999Col Ronald E Owens USAF Retronaldo@flymidamerica.comCol Jack D Patterson USAF Retjack.patterson@osd.milMaj Gen Robert B Patterson Sr USAF Retsasbob@mindspring.comCMSgt David M Pelletier II USAF Reteagle141@comcast.netMSgt Edward E Renneckaredward.renneckar@travis.af.milMSgt Eric E J Riker USAF Retark2riker@aol.comGen Charles T Robertson Jr USAF Retcharles.t.robertson@boeing.comJoel L StorchjstorchCGSI@aol.comConvention & SymposiumConvention ChairmanCol Jack D Patterson USAF Retjack.patterson@osd.milSymposium Seminar CoordnatorMaj Douglas B Lynch Retdlynch@symetrics.comProgram CommitteeeCol Miles C Wiley III USAF RetMiles.Wiley@dhs.govGolfLt Col Wallace G Herzog USAF Retwherzog@sargentfletcher.comMaster of CeremoniesCol George E Dockery USAF Retgeorge130@msn.comAirlift/Tanker QuarterlyEditor A/TQCollin R Baksebakse@apci.netBusiness Manager A/TQLt Col Nicky L McCollough USAF Retnmccollough@ray.mgacoxmail.comPublic Affairs A/TQCol Gregory P Cook USAF RetGregoryPCookLLC@aol.comCommand Liaison RepresentativesLiaison ACCLt Col Michael A Murawskimichael.murawski@langley.af.milLiaison AETCMaj Manuel R Gomez Jrmanuel.gomez@randolph.af.milLiaison AFRCCol David A Razodavid.razo@afrc.af.milLiaison AFRCMaj Neal R Thompsonneal.thompson@afrc.af.milLiaison AMCMaj Gen Quentin L Petersonpete.peterson@amc.af.milLiaison AMC AlternateMaj Stefan V Elingstefan.eling@scott.af.milLiaison ANGMaj Gen Frank D Tutorfdtutor@aol.comLiaison USAFECol David M Callisdavid.callis@mildenhall.af.milMiscellaneous CommitteesCommunications CommitteeCollin R Baksebakse@apci.netHeritage CommitteeCol Ronald E Owens USAF Retronaldo@flymidamerica.comNominating CommitteeGen Duane H Cassidy USAF Retdhcassidy@nc.rr.comChapter ContactsAlamoMaj Manuel R Gomez Jrmanuel.gomez@randolph.af.milBig CountryMSgt Ned L Maybeened.maybee@dyess.af.milCapitalCol Mark F Ramsaymark.ramsay@pentagon.af.milDenaliMaj Christopher L Bennettchristopher2.bennett@elmendorf.af.milDiamond HeadMSgt Jennifer R Andersonjennifer.anderson@hickam.af.milEagleMaj Bryce W Middletonbryce.middleton-02@dover.af.milEast AngliaCol David M Callisdavid.callis@mildenhall.af.milGolden BearLt Col Ray B Ottray.ott@travis.af.milGoldwaterLt Col Michael H Morganmichael.morgan@azphoe.ang.af.milGreat LakesCMSgt James W Wilton USAF Retwiltonj@klondyke.netHafa AdaiSMSgt William E Mahaffeywilliam.mahaffey@andersen.af.milHuyserLt Col Vincent G McCrave III USAF rettnkrplt7@charter.netInland NorthwestLt Col Glenn B Lemastersglenn.lemasters@fairchild.af.milKeeper of the PlainsMaj Jonathan M Castellanosjonathan.castellanos@mcconnell.af.milLow CountryLt Col Lenny J Richouxlenny.richoux@charleston.af.milLt Gen Tunner / Berlin AirliftCol Thomas Hansen USAF Retc130hans@msn.comLuftbrückeNo POCMaxwellCol Olen S Keyolen.key@maxwell.af.milPacific NorthwestCapt Kevin S GriswoldKevin.Griswold@McChord.af.milPeachtreeCol Jon A Hawley Retjon.a.hawley@lmco.comPikes PeakMaj Kristal LM AlfonsoKristal.Alfonso@USAFA.af.milRazorbackCapt Tom R Ulmertom.ulmer@littlerock.af.milRed RiverLt Col Dwight C Sonesdwight.sones@altus.af.milRheinland-PfalzLt Col Brian A Yatesbrian.yates@ramstein.af.milRheinland-Pfalz-LajesTSgt James W Van Casterjames.vancaster@lajes.af.milRyukyuCMSgt Ronald S Wright USAF Retronald.wright@kadena.af.milSam FoxMaj Julianne E Emmolojulianne.emmolo@andrews.af.milSee SeventeenCMSgt Michael M Welch USAF Retmichael.m.welch@boeing.comShogunCapt Adolfo Gorbeaadolfo.gorbea@yokota.af.milTarheelSMSgt James R McCalljames.mccall@pope.af.milTeam Robins1Lt Julie R Treasurerjulie.treasurer@robins.af.milTidewaterLt Col Michael A Murawskimichael.murawski@langley.af.milTip of the SwordLtCol Christopher J Kulaschristopher.kulas@incirlik.af.milTommy B. McGuireLt Col Robert J Hockrobert.hock@mcguire.af.milTony JannusMaj Teri L Consoldaneteri.consoldane@macdill.af.milWarriors of the NorthLt Col Kip B Turainkip.turain@grandforks.af.milWrightLt Col Robert D Championrobert.champion@wpafb.af.milThe information on this page isthe most current available. Pleasecontact Bud Traynor and CollinBakse to make corrections and/orchanges, or to suggest additionalcontact information for this page.8 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

CoverSTORYFocus on“If we are going to ask our Airmen todefend this nation, then we owe it tothem to give them the best opportunitiesfor career development … and give themthe best possible standard of living andthe best possible training.”– Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael MoseleyEnlistedTrainingandEducationToday’s Air Force enlistedpersonnel, already thebest trained and educatedAir Force personnel inthe world, face many newchallenges due to theGlobal War on Terror –challenges which are beingmet with demandingtraining and educationalopportunities…A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 20069

Like it or not, the Global War on Terror is having an impact on how the Air Force does business.Today’s airmen must learn how to protect multi-million dollar assets and personnel fromattack by any number of unseen enemies bent on creating havoc, andthey must also be prepared to get those injured in the process to safety and medical care.The following stories highlight some of the ways in which the Air Force is providing the necessarytraining and educational opportunies to ensure that the best trained and educated Air Forcein the world stays focused on the threat, identifies vulnerabilities andimproves its capabilities to maximize performance.CMSAF Addresses Transformation,Training and Educationby Senior Airman Vanessa Young48th Fighter Wing Public AffairsAs threats against the United States evolve, Airmen can expect theAir Force to evolve as well said theAir Force’s senior enlisted memberduring a visit to RAF Lakenheath,UK, on Friday, 10 March 2006.Chief Master Sgt. of the Air ForceGerald R. Murray talked about the AirForce’s evolution and the initiativesleadership is taking to modernize theAir Force and its Airmen.“We’ve changed in the past,and we are going to continue toundergo change in the future,”Chief Murray said. “We’ve alwaysbeen an evolving force.”He said as new technology andnew equipment are introduced,Airmen will see a reduction in thepersonnel structure. Some Air Forcespecialty codes will realign, somewill decrease and some will grow tomeet demands.“We have some numbers floatingout there that indicate in the nextfive years we may be 40,000 lessAirmen than we are today,” he said.“Toward the summer, I think we’ll beable to give the Air Force a clearersnapshot about where we want to gowith that.”The chief said Air Force leadership has looked at the deploymentaspects of our combat expeditionary requirements and plans tocreate a balance for those career fields deploying longer and morefrequently than others.And, as the Army transforms their structure, the Air Force willprovide more tactical air control, combat weather and air operationssupport to the Army, Chief Murray said.As an advocate for the enlisted force, the chief said there are manyupcoming improvements for Airmen.From the fundamentals at basic training, to the command seniorenlisted leader course for chief master sergeants, professional militaryeducation programs will continue to evolve and improve.“Our PME is the greatest in the world,” the chief said. “But it canbe better sequenced for the needs of our Airmen as we shape for10 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Gerald R. Murray speaksto Airmen attending the Mathies Airman LeadershipSchool during his visit to RAF Lakenheath, UK, Friday, 10March 2006. (U.S. Air Force photo by A1C Kristi Emler)“We’re engaged in a war that perhaps is not goingto end any time soon, so we need to be preparedfor that…We have to focus on training, on ourleadership and our efforts of preparing our Airmenmentally, physically and emotionally to deal withthe rigors of deployment.”– Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Gerald Murraythe future.”Bases across the Air Force have standardized professionaldevelopment centers over the last few years. Air Force leadershipstarted with the basics; extending basic training from six and a halfweeks to eight and a half weeks.In the future, the chief said basic training will include moreinformation about the enemies we are fighting, and will incorporatelessons learned from Afghanistan, Iraq and other contingency areasaround the world.Along with improving PME andtraining, leadership is also developingeducation programs to prepare Airmento work in joint-service environments.Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff,Marine Gen. Peter Pace, recentlyapproved the implementation of theJoint Professional Military Educationprogram.“This [JPMEP] requires allservices to evaluate and ensure wehave joint education throughout ourranks from the youngest Airman to themost senior NCO,” Chief Murray said.“It has a joint professional militaryeducation course for senior NCOswho are assigned to joint commands.And we’ve implemented a seniorlevelcourse primarily for chief mastersergeants, sergeants major and masterchief petty officers who will serve atthe most senior levels in a joint taskforce or joint organization.”In addition to joint servicetraining, air and space expeditionaryforce deployments continue to sendAirmen around the world.“It doesn’t matter today if youare serving in the United Kingdom, in the southeastern United Statesor in Japan because we are a global force,” the chief said. “Servingin the United Kingdom doesn’t mean the mission focus is just onEurope; it’s serving as a global expeditionary force no matter wherehome station may be. An Airman serving in the United Kingdomcould also serve in Iraq, Afghanistan or Africa.”Throughout his visit, the chief expressed his gratitude to allservicemembers and their families.“I have nothing but the greatest appreciation for what our Airmenare doing,” he said. “It is amazing the experience and commitmentwe continue to have from our Airmen. It’s a busy force, there’s a lotgoing on in the world, there are a lot of demands that are placed forthose of us who are serving in the military, and our people are doingabsolutely great.”

Phoenix Raven TrainingHighlights Needs of Today’sAir Force Security Forcepressure point control techniques and sections on the collapsiblebaton and on weapons.In addition, the students have to pass a rigorous physical trainingregimen. It includes accomplishing 54 sit-ups in two minutes forboth men and women, 49 push-ups for men and 25 for women inby Tech. Sgt. Scott T. Sturkol421st Combat Training Squadron Public AffairsStudents in the Air Mobility Warfare Center’s Phoenix Ravenprogram a Fort Dix, New Jersey, face many challenges in their questto attain a coveted security forces Raven patch.The course, taught by the 421st Combat Training Squadron,originated in the late 1990s after a need was seen to better protectmilitary aircraft in an expeditionary environment.The definition of a Raven, according to Tech. Sgt. Kelly Tabor,Raven course instructor, is “an Airman, Sailor or Soldier who hasreadily accepted the responsibility to ensure the success of our forceprotection mission. They are all volunteers and are prepared to travel ata moment’s notice anywhere around the world to protect Departmentof Defense assets for as long as it takes to complete the mission.”Ravens also must be of the highest caliber and always use judgmentthat will reflect well on missions abroad, said Tech. Sgt. Bruce McPherson, noncommissioned in charge of the Phoenix Raven program.“Ravens are put in a stressful environment to handle situationsprofessionally and tactfully,” Sergeant McPherson said. “Theextensive training given to students here is in unarmed defensetactics, application of the force continuum, used less-than-lethalforceweapons, anti-hijacking (procedures), and firearms training.Ravens need to be able to think and communicate in stressfulsituations in order to accomplish the mission. This makes the coursechallenging and dynamic for a Raven candidate.”The 24 students in the most recent Air Force Phoenix RavenCourse came from all over. Many of them are Air Force active-dutysecurity forces members, but there are also Guard, Reserve andNavy security forces.The students receive nearly 130 hours of instructional trainingStudents in the Air Force Phoenix Raven Class 06-D at Fort Dix, N.J.,move a “patient” through an obstacle course during combat first aidtraining for the students. The students, who include Air Force securityforces and Navy masters at arms personnel, receive training ineverything from combat first aid and tactical self defense to aircraftsecurity. The students undergo extensive physical training as well. Thecourse is taught by the Air Mobility Warfare Center’s 421st CombatTraining Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photo by TSgt. Scott T. Sturkol)during their nearly three weeks of training. There is more than 50hours of classroom academics along with anti-terrorism training,Staff Sgt. April Apo assists a”victim” who was injured by a “bomb”during a combat first aid scenario as part of the Phoenix RavenCourse at Fort Dix, N.J.. Sergeant Apo is assigned to the Nevada AirNational Guard’s 152nd Security Forces Squadron. (U.S. Air ForcePhoto by TSgt. Scott T. Sturkol)two minutes, and a two-mile run that has to be at least 16 minutes,15 seconds for men, and 19 minutes, 18 seconds for women.“I like the physical and mental challenges the course presents,”said Senior Airman Michael Tucker, a security forces journeymanfrom the 3rd Security Forces Squadron at Elmendorf Air Force Base,Alaska. “The course pushes you and your body further than youthought was possible.”Navy Master at Arms 2nd Class Carl Hurtt Jr., from Mobile SecuritySquadron 7, Det. 71, Naval Forces Command Marianas, Guam, saidthe physical parts of the training are challenging, but the educationalaspect is also “very helpful” in teaching him to “think first beforeacting.”“The training and the program as a whole offers me another lookat how law enforcement work is conducted in the ever-changingenvironment since Sept. 11, 2001,” he said.From start to finish in the training, camaraderie is emphasizedamong the students. They march together in formation betweenclasses and exercise together. They essentially work together in nearlyevery aspect of the course.“This course allowed me to test myself against my peers and thecadre who teach the course,” said Airman 1st Class Andrew Prunitis,security forces journeyman from the 305th SFS at McGuire AFB, N.J.“The team approach by the cadre motivated me to do better.”The toughness of the course and its rigorous schedule are all meantto point the students toward success, Sergeant McPherson said. Andif you ask any of the students, they’ll tell you the level of sacrifice ittakes to meet the challenges, he said.“You have to have heart, character, charisma, intestinal fortitudeand other various traits to tough out this three-week course,” saidA/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200611

student Staff Sgt. Nicholas Roberts, a security forces journeymanfrom the 62nd SFS at McChord AFB, Wash. “If you are here it’sbecause your unit thinks you are the ‘best of the best.’ You are gettinga chance to gain a certification that less than 10 percent of the AirForce security forces members have.”Upon graduating the course, there is really only one thing thatbecomes their greatest weapon, Sergeant Tabor said.“Despite numerous hours spent perfecting unarmed hand-to-handcombat techniques, the Raven graduate understands their mostpowerful asset is their mind…their discipline, fortitude and abilityto think quickly will ensure the success in providing force protectionanywhere at any time,” Sergeant Tabor said.Staff Sgt. April Apo, security forces craftsman from the Nevada AirNational Guard’s 152nd SFS, said becoming a Raven has taken her toa “higher level” in her career and her life.“I wanted to become a part of the elite,” Sergeant Apo said. “Thetools I learned during the Raven course not only will help me in thesecurity forces career field, but also how I conduct myself as a person.”Training Center in Europe UsesCombat Lessons to Evolveby Master Sgt. John E. LaskyAir Force Print NewsSecurity forces in Europe are preparing for deployment to warzones with an up-to-date curriculum.The mission of the 786th Security Forces Squadron’s regionaltraining center, otherwise known as “Creek Defender,” located atSembach AB, Germany, is to provide predeployment integrated basedefense training for U.S. Air Forces in Europe security forces.The training also prepares command security forces for missionsthroughout the European Command’s area of operations and othercombatant commands worldwide.A1C Robert Spears provides cover for his squad during foot patroltraining. Airman Spears is a security force specialist with the 52ndSecurity Forces Squadron at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany. (U.S.Air Force photo by Master Sgt. John E. Lasky)When previous training became outdated, the staff prepared aconcept of operations in October that remedied that situation, saidSenior Master Sgt. Patrick Herdman, the center superintendent.Instructors created more than 40 lesson plans incorporatingtraining objectives to counteract insurgent threats in the U.S. CentralCommand area of operations. The bulk of the plans were constructedwith direct feedback from security forces deployed to war zones.“We queried previous Creek Defender students currently deployed– and the Army and Marine Corps sources – to ensure we profitedfrom their experiences and integrated tactical lessons learned,”Sergeant Herdman said.The program concept was founded on the need to change froma purely instruction-based curriculum to one focused on tactics todefeat adversaries. Instructors focused on threat, capabilities andvulnerabilities to maximize the United States’ performance.Additionally, Master Sgt. Tamala Hartz, noncommissioned officerin charge of operations, visited several U.S. Central Command basesas part of a training assessment sponsored by the Air Force SecurityForces Center. She interviewed security forces Airmen who verifiedthe proposed training plan was on target.After completing the new course under the revised curriculum inDecember, students with deployed experience provided resoundingfeedback, Sergeant Herdman said.Senior Master Sgt. Glynn Davis, operations superintendent forthe 569th SFS at Vogelweh Air Station, Germany, is a veteran of fourprevious contingency deployments.“The training was spot on. This course gave us training to succeedand survive in the desert,” he said.Tech. Sgt. Gregory Marchand, flight chief from the 52nd SFS atSpangdahlem Air Base, Germany, said training made him “feel muchmore at ease.”“That easy feeling I have has also eased some of the anxiety myfamily has been feeling,” Sergeant Marchand said. “And that alonemakes this the most valuable training I have received.”Sergeant Herdman said the training cadre’s ultimate goal is toensure their training is relevant, credible and flexible.“It’s personal,” he said. “We want to ensure the personnel whoattend Creek Defender are the best trained and most respected combatprofessionals, able to meet, defeat or overcome any challenge.”Ground Combat Skills PrepareAirmen for Base Survivalby Maj. Ann P. Knabe379th Air Expeditionary Wing Public AffairsAs the desert sun beat down on the deployed Airmen, Staff Sgt. StacyMiller crawled along the ground, digging her helmet and face into thesand as she pushed her body along the barren ground. At one pointduring the low-crawl, she actually tasted sand, grittiness and all.An information management specialist for the 64th AirExpeditionary Group at a desert base, Sergeant Miller and the restof the group’s Airmen, now know how to low-crawl, how it can helpsave their lives during combat and other survival tactics necessary todefend a base.The geographically separated unit of the 379th Air ExpeditionaryWing held a mandatory ground combat skills training exercise for allAirmen assigned to the group.Group commander Col. Jay Carlson conceptualized the 36-hourexercise shortly after taking over the unit activated Dec. 18.“I took to heart General (T. Michael) Moseley’s recent letter tocommanders,” said Colonel Carlson, referring to a Jan. 30 letter fromthe Air Force chief of staff. “(General Moseley) said every Airman,regardless of rank, position or Air Force specialty code, should betrained as a base defender.”Building on this vision, Colonel Carlson thought of differentways the 64th Support Squadron could augment the 64th SecurityForces Squadron, deciding hands-on training was the best approachto give augmentees the training needed to defend the base in caseof an emergency.“First Lt. Andrea Skrabal, our expeditionary security forces trainingand resources flight commander, took the vision and made it areality,” the colonel said. “She built a training program, highlightingthose skills necessary to fight as an effective force in the integrateddefense as well as securing critical facilities, freeing up security forces12 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

defenders to meet the enemy at the perimeter.”During the exercise, Airmen learned a variety of defensive maneuverstraditionally reserved for security forces. The students low-crawled andhigh-crawled, practiced defensive fighting positions with rifles, andmastered apprehension techniques and vehicle searches. The exerciseclimaxed with a scenario in which the Airmen raided a villa, cleared allAirmen with the 379th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron’squick response force survey the situation during a ground combatskills exercise held by the 64th Air Expeditionary Group at a desertbase recently. The Airmen recently went through a mandatoryground combat skills exercise, so everyone could defend the base ifnecessary. (U.S. Air Force photo by Col. Jay Carlson)the rooms and captured “insurgents” hidden inside.For Airmen not trained in security forces techniques, theexercise was challenging.“The hardest part was learning to look around while carrying yourweapon,” Sergeant Miller said. “When you’re not used to carrying aweapon on a daily basis, this can be difficult.”Sergeant Miller said the exercise also pushed Airmen physically.“We did one search exercise called the duck walk,” she said. “Whenyou do this, your feet are spread shoulder-width apart and you squatdown, looking all around. We could definitely feel this the next dayin our legs.”Physical demands are just one of the many challenges the Airmenfaced. They trained in groups of 12 to 17 Airmen, rotating training ondifferent tasks over the course of three days.“Weapons handling and the use of force were the most difficultskills for most people to learn,” said Master Sgt. Robert Duke,group superintendent of training and resources. “However, someof the students were naturals. But, the skill level didn’t matter.We worked and learned together as a team and epitomized thewingman concept.”Despite the challenges and physical demands, Sergeant Miller saidshe really enjoyed the training exercise.“I found out I had more in me,” she said. “The deep voice andsolid, determined commands came from within. Then when we didthe field training exercise, it all came together. It was amazing how weall put our skills together to work each scenario, and to discover ourchallenging techniques, communication skills and combat defensemaneuvers really work. That’s what being a team is all about.”Airmen Train for Air Evacby 1st Lt. Lisa M. Ferguson43rd Airlift Wing Public AffairsDigging defensive fighting positions, driving with night-visiongoggles and during chemical warfare training and hiking in to campsound like Army training – right?They are actually part of the annual training required for PopeAFB’s 43rd Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron.“We are considered first responders among the four activedutyair evac squadrons,” said Staff Sgt. Jeremy Morton, an airevacuation medical technician with the 43rd AES. “We are morehigh speed than other squadrons, and this field stuff is our breadand butter.”If the Air Force wants air evac squadrons to test a new tent or a newpiece of equipment or process, the 43rd AES is called upon to test it,Sergeant Morton said.“We are the pilot unit for any changes the Air Force wants to maketo air evacuations,” he said.Sergeant Morton said they are expected to know how to conductmedical evacuations in a hostile environment and train often withthe Army.“What’s great about working with the Army, and other services, isthat we understand what other services need,” Sergeant Morton said.“It also builds our credibility when they see us out (hiking) it in andtraining hard with them.”About 28 students and nine instructors recently spent three daysout at Camp Mackall at Fort Bragg, N.C., learning how to set upa mobile air staging facility and evacuate patients in an enginerunningonload scenario.The mobile air staging facility and engine-running onloadsare usually scenarios that take place at the beginning ofoperations, said Master Sgt. Richard Barlow, an air evacuationmedical technician.Medics with the 43rd Air Evacuation Squadron at Pope Air ForceBase, N.C., prepare a patient for loading onto an arriving C-130Hercules on Thursday, 6 April 2006. The 43rd is conducting annualmedical field training to prepare squadron members for real worlddeployments. (U.S. Air Force photo by MSgt Jack Braden)“Ideally we have to set up MASFs at the onset of militaryoperations, and then we teach the other services how to set themup and run them,” Sergeant Barlow said. “Our goal is really toteach ourselves out of jobs with these MASFs.”Other training the students received included tent set-up, nightoperations, generator training, site selection and civilian agencyinteraction training.“After Katrina, we realized how important it is to know how tointeract with civilian agencies,” Sergeant Barlow said.Tech. Sgt. Richard Kramer, also with the 43rd AES, said theyaren’t out at Camp Mackall training and practicing medicalprocedures.“We are teaching them how to survive and treat patients in ahostile environment,” he said. “But probably the most importantaspects of this training is learning teamwork and how to live andwork together, but realizing everything revolves around taking careof the patients.”A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200613

Merger Forms Career EnlistedAircrew Center of Excellenceby James Coburn37th Training Wing Public AffairsEnlisted aviator ground schools for seven different specialties aremoving to Lackland AFB, Texas, to create the Career Enlisted AircrewCenter of Excellence.The move will provide better and quicker academic training atless cost, said Mark Smith, training manager and aircrew pipelinemanager for the 344th Training Squadron.Mr. Smith said the efficiencies and cost savings include eliminationof hundreds of plane trips, wait time and per diem, since many of theaircrew students will travel only twice instead of three times beforearriving at their flying training units.The squadron currently trains 2,000 Airmen a year in the 14-day enlisted aircrew undergraduate course before going to survivaltraining, then to their three-level specialty ground school. Sevenof these schools and about 40 instructors will move here foracademic classes.“The intent is to take all the initial skills training for enlistedaviators from where they are now and consolidate them here tocreate a ‘common aircrew culture,’ and also get some cost savingsand training pipeline efficiencies,” said Lt. Col. Rob Huber,squadron commander.Colonel Huber said seven of the eight specialties will bemoving, with the first school scheduled to arrive in April. Hesaid the eighth specialty, 1A8, or linguists, will stay at the groundschools at Monterey, Calif., and Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas,“because they have a year and a half of language in a joint schoolwith the Army.”Specialties moving here are 1A0, aerial refuelers, from Altus AFB,Okla.; 1A1, flight engineers, from Kirtland AFB, N.M., Little RockAFB, Ark., or Altus; 1A2, loadmasters, from Altus or Little Rock; 1A3and 1A4, airborne battle managers and airborne mission specialists,from Keesler AFB, Miss.; 1A6, flight attendants, from Andrews AFB,Md.; and 1A7, aerial gunners, from Kirtland.Mr. Smith said the first move is the ground school for airbornebattle managers, scheduled to start April 11. The next, scheduledfor October, is for flight attendants, followed by airborne missionspecialists in January. He said the other schools are moving betweenJanuary and October next year. Delays are possible, he said, sincemoving instructors and positions are involved, which takes funding.The courses are all different lengths and each includes somecommon material that could be taught in the basic course, he said.Since the three-level courses would follow immediately and at thesame location, wait time and travel to the three-level courses willbe eliminated.Mr. Smith said the consolidation was identified in Decemberby Air Education and Training Command headquarters as the No.1 “Quick Win” initiative for Air Force Smart Operations for the21st Century.“I want to see the biggest bang for my buck, both personally andprofessionally. And this will get us that – better-trained Airmen tothe field quicker, which is really critical in today’s global war onterrorism. These are the guys that put metal in the air, and they’reactually putting metal into hostile air for us,” Mr. Smith said.Mr. Smith said that only the ground school portion of the trainingis coming to Lackland. The flight training portion will remain at theircurrent locations.Career development courses for each Air Force Specialty Codewill also be moved to Lackland, Mr. Smith said. He said the centeralso plans to develop advanced training courses to support all of thecareer enlisted aviators’ training needs. (Courtesy AETCNS)Lackland NCO Academy Renamedto Honor CMSAF Gaylorby Raymond V. Whelan37th Training Wing Public AffairsThe NCO academy at Lackland AFB, Texas, recently took on a newmoniker.From now on, the Air Force will recognize the tenant unit in Bldg.10634 as the Robert D. Gaylor NCO Academy to honor the formerChief Master Sergeant of the Air Force.“Since his retirement in 1979, Chief Gaylor has dedicated hispersonal time to brief over 161 Lackland NCOA classes, and he hastouched the hearts and minds of over 27,000 students,” said Tech.The fifth Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force, Robert D. Gaylor,addresses a crowd at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, on Thursday,March 30, 2006. The Lackland noncommissioned officer academywas renamed the Robert D. Gaylor NCO Academy during a dedicationceremony. (U.S. Air Force photo by Robbin Cresswell)Sgt. Jeannette Drake, an NCO Academy instructor. “He has alsodonated some of his most significant military memorabilia to displayin the halls of our academy.”Since the academy opened its doors in 1973, thousands of NCOshave received training there for positions of increased responsibility,Drake added. Every year, more than 1,600 students attend theacademy, which is part of the Air University at Maxwell AFB, Ala.“Today, people must be willing to assume leadership roles in amoment’s notice, especially in a combat zone,” said Chief MasterSgt. Phillip Topper, the academy commandant. “This (NCO) trainingclarifies the importance of being able to take different techniques andstyles to motivate and direct people in the accomplishment of themission.”There is no assignment better than preparing and training peoplefor future responsibilities, the chief said.“People are our greatest asset,and if people understand how to fully usetheir talents and skills inperforming the mission – watch out!”– Chief Master Sgt. Phillip TopperCommandant, Robert D. Gaylor NCO Academy14 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

Mobility Community’s Enlisted Leadership in TransitionAMC Command Chief RetiresAfter 30 Years of Serviceby 1st Lt. Katherine KebisekAir Mobility Command Public AffairsChief Master Sgt. Michael Kerver, command chief master sergeantof Air Mobility Command will retired on 28 February 2006, after 30years of military service.“Being the AMC Command Chief is agreat way to end a career,” he said. “It’s theculmination of being a first sergeant and asenior enlisted leader, and it feels good tobe able to utilize my experiences to helpdevelop our enlisted corps. My agendahas always been driven by those I serve,and not by a checklist. Over the years, I’vebeen grateful for the trust my supervisorsand commander’s have had in me to makedecisions and to influence Air Force andMAJCOM programs and policies.”During his time in AMC, the chief was involved in developingmany Air Force programs, including changes in enlisted professionalmilitary education, the physical training program, the length andcontent of Basic Military Training, and the new Airman BattleUniform, among others.Representing the more than 40,000 enlisted troops in AMC comeswith its challenges, but Chief Kerver said he stayed focused on threethings from his first day on the job… the war, accidents and suicides,and professional development.As the chief prepared to depart, his observations of his time inAMC gave him great faith in the future of the Air Force.“Today’s force is more focused and professional than it’s ever been,”he said. “Once Airmen are assigned to duties and responsibilities, Iwatch them start to grow. Plus supervisors are better today thanI’ve ever seen them before – they’re interested and care, are betterprepared to look people in the eyes and give them the feedback andguidance they need to help them succeed in their own careers.”He believes the professionalism of today’s force is a result ofdeveloping leadership through professional military education andprofessional development courses, and it’s had a ripple effect fromthe top down.While Chief Kerver said he enjoyed every assignment in his 30years, he seems to hold a special place in his heart for AMC.“The sun never sets on AMC, and there is not a spot you can go inthis world where you would not find an aerial porter or maintainerkeeping the cargo and passengers loaded, and missions flying.”“I’ve been blessed to have had this opportunity to serve, and Icouldn’t imagine being assigned or closing my career elsewhere,”he said. “All I ever wanted to do was make a difference, and ifyou remember anything, remember that once you reach the top,it’s important you reach back and bring others along with you. I’llalways cherish the memories, and have lots of pictures to look backat, but it’s time to start writing the next chapter.”AMC Selects New Command ChiefAir Mobility Command recently selected Chief Master Sgt. JosephE. Barron Jr. as its next Command Chief. Chief Barron, currentlythe Command Chief Master Sgt. of Second Air Force at KeeslerAir Force Base, Miss., entered the Air Force in December 1979 asan administrative specialist. The chief served in a variety of dutiesin his original career field, ranging from amaintenance administrative specialist tothe noncommissioned officer in charge ofInformation Management programs. Hehas held several special duty assignments,including tours with the Air Force Officeof Special Investigations and Air ForceRecruiting Service. Chief Barron was alsoassigned to the Military Training Managercareer field and later served in various unitsas First Sergeant, to include an assignmentwith the U.S. Air Force Thunderbirds. He also served as CommandChief of the Air Warfare Center. Chief Barron joined AMC in April.USTRANSCOM WelcomesNew Senior Enlisted Advisorby Bob Fehringer (contractor)U.S. Transportation Command Public AffairsChief Master Sgt. Kenneth J. McQuiston has landed at United StatesTransportation Command, Scott AFB, Illinois, as the command’sSenior Enlisted Advisor.The latest move in his 23-year-Air Force career was from just acrossthe street at the 18th Air Force where he wasthe Command Chief Master Sergeant.His new duties include advisingUSTRANSCOM Commander Gen. NortonSchwartz on issues regarding the command’senlisted force. These include health andwelfare, career progression and educationand training. “I also serve as the link betweenthe commander, senior staff and the enlistedforce,” McQuiston said, “to insure that weare knowledgeable of the commander’svision and direction of USTRANSCOM.”When asked what he felt was the most important aspect of hisnew position, he said, “Taking care of people. If I ensure that wetake care of the places that we eat, sleep, play and pray, our people,regardless of component, grade or position, will be better prepared toaccomplish our mission and win the global war on terrorism.”McQuiston says he sees little difference between members ofthe various service branches. “One thing I have learned in my 23years of service is that people are people, regardless of their serviceaffiliation,” he said. “People want to do a good job, be recognized fortheir performance and be able to provide for their families.”McQuiston says his biggest challenge will be to learn the individualcareer progression, promotion and professional military educationsystems of the various services so he can advise and provide careerprogression opportunities for them all.“I plan to do this by establishing more open communications,”McQuiston said, “to find greater opportunities for our various servicemembers to interact and share service-unique rules of engagementand to educate everyone. I will count on the senior enlisted servicemembers from each component to help provide me with thateducation.”McQuiston feels he is prepared for the challenges of his new joband welcomes the opportunity to serve in a unique and diversesituation.“I commit to you,” McQuiston continued, “that I will doeverything in my power to ensure that you have the tools necessaryto progress professionally and personally.”A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200615

Airlift MissionGoes FullThrottle atRamstein &SpangdahlemA C-17 Globemaster III awaits loading on the parking ramp at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, on Sunday, 19 March 2006. The transport, from Mc-Chord AFB, Washinton, is helping a fleet of Air Force cargo planes move troops and cargo from stateside bases to Iraq and Afghanistan. (U.S.Air Force photo by MSgt. John E. Lasky)The Gateways to Europe and BeyondTwo airlift hubs, Ramstein AB, Germany, and its sister siteSpangdahlem AB, located about 80 miles to the northwest are nowthe main “pit stops” on the United States-to-Iraq supply route,making Ramstein and Spangdahlem not only the “Gateways toEurope,” but also the “Gateways to U.S. Central Command.”Ramstein – At the Center of Air Mobility in EuropeHalfway between the United States East Coast and SouthwestAsia, Ramstein is “absolutely critical” to the Air Force’s global waron terrorism role, says Col. Jeff Derrick, commander of the 723rd AirMobility Squadron, who runs airlift support operations at Ramstein.“This is such a strategic location because we provide all the majormaintenance” for C-17 Globemaster III and C-5 Galaxy transports,the colonel from Tignall, Ga., said. “We can load and unload them,service them, fix them and get them on their way again.”That’s because the base near Kaiserslautern – which is operatingat full speed – has the means to support transiting aircraft andtheir aircrews.“We provide aerial port services, command and control – and wehave all the aircrew amenities,” he said.To do this, the unit has some of the Air Force’s best facilities,courtesy of Rhein-Main Transition Program dollars. Rhein-Main AirBase, near Frankfurt, was the Air Force’s main airlift hub in Europefor 60 years. It ended its airlift support mission in October 2005.Ramstein and Spangdahlem Air Base gained its mission.Both bases had to effect major changes and build the supportfacilities to do the task. A large part of the construction fundscame from a conglomerate of German government and civilianagencies. So for the past few years, Ramstein has been a continualconstruction zone.The 723rd, located on a ramp on the west side of the base’s southrunway, has a new building that houses the unit and a state-of-theartautomated warehouse. It also has a new fleet services section,passenger terminal, maintenance hangar and a ramp for 20 to 25wide-body cargo jets.Colonel Derrick said it would be tough for the United States toreplicate the base’s available capacity anywhere else in the region.“Could we do it? Yes. We’d find another place and with ourAmerican ingenuity and military figure out how to do it,” he said.“But it would be hard.”Squadron Airmen don’t have the time to think about the strategicvalue of the base where they serve. They’re too busy with the two keymissions they support.Perhaps their most visible job is handling the passenger trafficflying in and out of the region, on moves or deployments. Onaverage, passenger service troops move from 24,000 to 25,000passengers through the base a month.But it’s the airlift headed for Southwest Asia that is the unit’sbread-and-butter mission. Most cargo arrives in Europe via sealiftand trucked to regional depots. It arrives at Ramstein via truck.“But the high-priority missions – the hot stuff that needs to get tothe war zone fast – arrives by airlift,” the colonel said.Each day, the air transportation troops download 20-plus aircraft16 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

full of cargo. And, on average, more than 10,000 tons of cargo– which arrives via aircraft or truck – transits the base each month.“That’s more than 200 full C-17 loads each month, all processedhere,” the colonel said. “We provide warfighters the beans and bullets– the supplies – to conduct the war.”That’s why it’s critical to keep airplanes flying, said Capt. JustinRadford. As the officer in charge of the squadron’s aircraft maintenanceunit, he is responsible for the 120 aircraft maintainers. Aircraftinclude C-17s and C-5s, C-130 Hercules, KC-135 Stratotankers, KC-10 Extenders and a variety of commercial transports, so maintainersmust be versatile.“They have to know how to maintain C-5s and C-17s, which isunique,” the captain said. “The standard maintainer at a statesidebase will only have to know one of those airframes. And they’ll haveto know their specialty – like hydraulics or electrical.”Maintainers must also learn a crew chief’s job, the captain fromSanta Rosa, Calif., said. They must be able to launch, recover,inspect and service aircraft. Doing the three jobs means maintainers– already pulling 12-hour shifts– must also know a book’s worth ofinformation.“For example, an aircraftelectrician has 377 C-5 tasks and483 C-17 tasks,” the captain said.“So just to be competent, he’s got860 tasks to know – plus the 55crew chief tasks.“That’s a lot to put on oneperson,” Captain Radford said.“The expectations and demandson our maintainers are unlikeany other maintenance unit inthe Air Force.”In the cavernous squadronbuilding, the more than 220Airmen that handle freight staybusy, too. Airmen work in foursections: cargo processing, rampservices, truck dock or specialhandling. On a typical day theymay handle passengers, munitions, military rations, vehicles, mail– even blood. An always hot cargo is bullet-proof windows forHumvees in the war zone.No matter the cargo, the air transporters are ready for the taskbecause they have to be, said Staff Sgt. Dave Rowland, a ramp servicesspecialist from Platte City, Mo. He said the cargo arrives on a host ofaircraft and often so varied that it keeps the troops on their toes.“You never know what to expect,” he said. “There’s always adifferent kind of load to deal with, so you have to be ready foreverything.”Staying ready is easier than most would think, considering thenumber of aircraft each troop unloads or loads each week. They getplenty of practice.“We download 20 or more missions a day,” the sergeant said. “Sowe have a lot of expertise out there on the line.”The squadron’s main support is to Southwest Asia. To meetcustomer demands, it provides command and control for morethan 20 “channel missions” routes. Colonel Derrick said these arescheduled, routine missions.“This is a routine cargo movement service,” the colonel said.“Every week at a certain time the customer knows he’s going toreceive an aircraft – a C-17, C-5, KC-10, whatever – with supplies toconduct the war.”The channel missions fly to Iraq, Afghanistan, Kyrgyzstan, Israel,Egypt, Italy, Bosnia and other locations. Each aircraft that goes intothe Southwest Asia is full of cargo.Staff Sgt. Daniel Wienfurter checks that the fuel is balanced as it’spumped into a C-5 Galaxy at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, on Thursday,March 30, 2006. Sergeant Wienfurter, of Aurora, Wisc., is a crewchief with the 723rd Aircraft Maintenance Unit. (U.S. Air Force photoby MSgt. John E. Lasky)“We move cargo on the front end of the mission,” the colonel said.“Then we reconfigure the aircraft and return with patients. We dothat every day.”But during the past year the emphasis has been on moving palletsto Iraq that will cut down the number of overland truck convoysneeded to move them within the country, said Staff Sgt. ChadKoerber. The cargo processing specialist from Warsaw, Ky., deals withthe cargo brought by truck to the freight center.He said his section separates cargo into different channel missions.Sometimes, cargo must wait until more arrives so a big enough palletcan go to one location. This saves money and resources, is moreefficient, cuts convoys in Iraq and is safer for truck drivers, he said.“Because as soon as they unload the cargo in Iraq, someone hasto move it” to the customer, the sergeant said. “This way, only oneaircraft is carrying the cargo – and maybe it will only take one convoyto move it to its destination.“That puts less people in harm’s way,” he said.Though support for operations in Iraq and Afghanistan are thesquadron’s main concert, theair transportation Airmen alsomust also learn to deal withunscheduled missions and events.For example, during the HurricaneKatrina humanitarian response,the Ramstein air transportationtroops stayed busy. They alsosupported the Pakistani earthquakeand Indian Ocean tsunami reliefoperations.“During Hurricane Katrina wewere the airlift hub for Europe’sresponse,” Captain Radford said.“All of the European countriesthat provided relief sent it here.Then we inspected it, packaged itand put it on aircraft to move itstateside.”Sergeant Rowland said, “Whenanything big like that happens,Ramstein is probably going tohelp out.”With the work they must do, flexibility is an important traitsquadron Airmen must have – or acquire. As construction goeson around them, they continue to deal with an ever-increasingworkload.The squadron commander said his people are used to the workload.What keeps them motivated? Knowledge that many people dependon their efforts, Colonel Derrick said.Still Under ConstructionParts of this hectic airlift hub are still under construction as thehistoric base transforms into the Air Force’s European super base.The work is part of the Department of Defense’s largest ongoingconstruction project – a $500 million boon for the base nearKaiserslautern, said Col. Carlos Cruz-Gonzalez, commander of the435th Civil Engineer Group.“The construction going on now is a continuation of the Rhein-Main Transition Program,” the colonel from Bayamon, PuertoRico, said.The transition program resulted from a U.S.-German accord toreturn Rhein-Main Air Base, outside of Frankfurt, back to Germanyby the end of 2005. In return, Germany allowed the Air Force toreplicate the base’s vital airlift mission at Ramstein and SpangdahlemAir Base, 80 miles northwest of here.German agencies agreed to foot most of the bill for 37 newconstruction projects that would allow the bases to take on the newA/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200617

mission. Ramstein got 32 of the projects.The breakdown of funds was $200 million for transition-relatedmilitary construction, $200 million for the Kaiserslautern MilitaryCommunity Center and $100 million for new military familyhousing.Today, 22 projects – started in 2003 – are finished, the colonel said.Done are the new south runway and “hot cargo pad” for handlingmunitions and hazardous cargo. Also completed is the expansion ofparking ramps for transiting wide-body jets and Ramstein’s C-130Hercules fleet. A huge and high-tech freight terminal, an expandedAirman 1st Class Gloria Cone checks pallets full of bulletproof glassbound for Humvees in Iraq as they are unloaded at Ramstein AirBase, Germany, on Thursday, March 30, 2006. Airman Cone is a cargoprocessing specialist with the 723rd Air Mobility Squadron. (U.S. AirForce photo by MSgt. John E. Lasky)passenger terminal, flight kitchen and dormitories for enlistedAirmen have been built. There was also extensive road constructiondone to keep up with the growing changes, he said.Currently, 10 projects are either underway or awaiting funding,Colonel Cruz-Gonzalez said. Under construction are a new hangarand a fitness center and annex.“This construction has caused a true transformation of this base,”the colonel said. “I got here in July 2003 – Ramstein is a completelydifferent base than when I arrived.”Still to come is the completion of several key projects, includingnew military family housing and the refurbishing of the base’s northrunway and extending it to 10,500 feet.“The immediate goal in front of us is to get the north runwayreconstruction project started,” the colonel said. He expects that tohappen early next year. “That’ll give the base two mission-capablerunways.”The colonel said the plan is to also build between 860 to 870town homes at Ramstein and surrounding military communitiesfor officers and enlisted Airmen. Some new officers and senior NCOhousing has already been built in the large military community.“In three weeks, we’ll start construction here,” Colonel Cruz-Gonzalez said. “These are what I call 100-year homes – built tolast. And they’ll have just about all the amenities the Air Force nowexpects to be in family housing.“When it’s all said and done, the community will have more than2,600 housing units,” he said.Another, more visible, goal is the completion of the KaiserslauternMilitary Community Center, or KMCC. The center, on the base’ssouth side, across from the passenger terminal, will include a neweight-story, 350-room hotel and a large shopping mall.The hotel will have a restaurant on its ground floor and a sportsbar. A new Army and Air Force Exchange Service store, boasting morethan 150,000 square foot, will be the main attraction at the mall, thecolonel said. The mall will also have 46 concessions shops, a foodcourt, ticket and tour office, four theaters, bank and credit union,barber shop, sauna and morale, welfare and recreation facilities – allunder one roof.“It will provide one-stop shopping” for just about anything a personmight need, Colonel Cruz-Gonzalez said. “And MWR operations willinclude a retail sales store, equipment checkout – even a two-storyrock wall so people can practice their rock climbing.”The center will open in stages. Construction of the yet-to-benamedhotel should end in July. But it will not open until Septemberbecause it will take about 60 days to furnish it and for businesses tomove in. The colonel expects the mall to open “early next year.”Jeff Noorda is the KMCC project manager and works in a plansfilledoffice behind the center. The engineer from Kaysville, Utah,has never worked on a bigger and more involved project. He saidthere are more than 340 workers from across Europe representing 26construction firms. Beside the center, they are adding 2,800 parkingspots around the complex.“What’s most impressive to me is being able to bring so manypeople together to accomplish such a large task,” he said.But maybe even more impressive is the special care the Air Forcetook to make the center’s construction efficient and environmentallyfriendly, the project manager said.“Something unique about the structure is that we’re going to put agreen roof on the mall,” Mr. Noorda said. “It’s not going to be puttinggreen grass – it will look like a German prairie.”Mr. Noorda said the roof is the first of its kind the Air Force hasbuilt. About a 5-inch layer of “engineering soil” will cover the roof. Itis a mixture of mostly crushed rocks on which only succulent plants– which can live off little water – will survive.“The grass will grow wild and only have to be mowed once a year,”he said. “It’ll also help retain water, so there wouldn’t be excessiverunoff into local communities.”He said the dirt also doubles or triples the life of the roofbecause the sun’s ultraviolet light cannot “beat down on the roofand crack it.”The community has eagerly awaited the completion of theconstruction. But neither Colonel Cruz-Gonzalez nor Mr. Noordacan say with certainty when everything will open. Both agree someprojects are behind schedule, some by as much as three months.“Yes, we are a little behind schedule – we did plan to be donesooner,” Mr. Noorda said. “We’ve slipped about three months now.But we’re still hoping to open the mall in January.”An unusually harsh March is part of the blame for the delays, thecolonel said. Some buildings – including some housing – are readyto open. But cold and rainy weather has hampered outside work likeputting in sod.“But we’re certainly within budget,” the colonel said.Construction on other projects will continue for several years, withsome projected through fiscal 2009 and beyond. While constructionat the base will continue to keep the pace hectic, Colonel Cruz-Gonzalez said teamwork has helped make the transition smoother.“Everyone in this community has worked to ensure all thedisruption the construction generated never interfered with ourmission,” he said. “We haven’t missed a beat.”The AMOCC – Controlling Air Mobility OperationsAir mobility operations at Ramstein are handled by the 16 AF AirMobility Operations Control Center (AMOCC), which, needless tosay stays very busy.The mission of this 83-member organization is to serve asCOMUSAFE’s command and control center for theater air mobilityassets. These assets include 52 air mobility aircraft assigned to the100 ARW in Mildenhall, England, and the 86 AW at Ramstein AB,Germany. These aircraft include C-130, KC-135, C-21, C-20, C-40,and C-37 airframes. The AMOCC is 24/7 and is an integral part of thelarger 16 AF Warfighting Headquarters.18 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

In addition to active duty Airmen, the AMOCC is augmented byseveral Army personnel and Air Force Reservists providing it with oneof the greatest concentrations of air mobility expertise outside thecontinental U.S. “The AMOCC is structured very much like AMC’sTanker Airlift Control Center, providing all those functions necessaryto plan and execute USAFE’s air mobility mission” said Lt Col SeanO’Neal, 16 AF AMOCC Vice Commander.“We are truly a one stop shop when it comes to executing the fullspectrum of airlift requirements” said SMSgt Wayne Daubert, 16 AFAMOCC Superintendent. “We have Airmen who specialize in airlift,air refueling, aeromedical evacuation, operational support airlift, andair mobility support.The AMOCC’s 24/7 operation is divided into six divisions.• The Contingency Operations division plans both steady stateand short-notice contingencies. They are considered air mobilitydoctrine experts and are an integral part of USAFE’s support ofOperations Enduring and Iraqi Freedom. In FY05 the AMOCCtasked 579 contingency missions. Lt Col Mike Ronza, Directorof Operations for the AMOCC, said, “We have supported a broadrange of contingencies, many of them to austere locations. Ourcontingency planners ensure all necessary coordination occurs tosafely execute these air mobility missions”.The Airlift Operations branch personnel are the USAFE theaterairlift validators. In addition to coordinating requirements withUSEUCOM and the 86 th Airlift Wing, they also task theater C-130 missions. These taskings include channel missions, specialassignment airlift missions, joint airborne training, and exercisemissions.• The Aeromedical Evacuation division provides command andcontrol for evacuations within USEUCOM. They are the vital linkbetween the medical and airlift communities to ensure safe andefficient patient transports within the theater. They coordinated277 theater patient movements in FY05 and another 15,349patients through the theater.• The Current Operations division consists of the following threebranches:The Diplomatic Clearances branch not only coordinates overflight and landing clearances with more than 116 countries but isalso responsible for airspace and airfield management. They workto ensure airfields are safe and provide airfield data to the operators.This small section has secured over 1,427 diplomatic clearances inFY05.The Tanker Operations branch plans, allocates, and tasks allUSAFE air refueling assets and is the primary tasking authority for15 tankers in theater. They also support USAFE and North AtlanticTreaty Organization exercises. In FY05 they tasked 1,872 tankermissions.Operational Support Airlift (OSA) branch has the responsibilityof providing airlift support for senior leaders, patients, and otherstraveling in the AOR. On average, they process more than 100requests per month utilizing 16 taskable aircraft. In addition toflying high priority passengers, OSA also maintains a C-21 on alertto move urgent patients. In the previous fiscal year OSA moved12,132 passengers and had a 96% support rate.• The Command and Control division is primarily responsible forensuring the mission is executed and coordinates changes whenneeded. On an average day they are executing 20-25 missions andmonitoring another 350 - 450 Air Mobility Command missionstransiting the theater each week. They also process necessaryflight changes such as quiet hour waivers, short notice diplomaticclearance requests, aircraft diverts due to weather and airfieldclosures, C-21 AE alert launches, and take other actions to getmissions accomplished safely, effectively, and efficiently.• The Flight Management division includes nine civiliandispatchers who are FAA-certified. The flight managers plan anddispatch missions and electronically process flight plans, even asoperators are in flight. This function can save aircrews up to 1 hourper day in flight planning, time which they could spend airborne.In FY05 this division dispatched 6,467 USAFE missions.• The Logistics division encompasses three areas. Aerial portoperations is vital to the cargo backlog management while themaintenance branch ensures non-mission capable aircraft arerecovered as quickly as possible. Lastly, the air mobility analysisbranch helps ensure aircraft are being utilized cost effectively andefficiently. Over 2,601 short tons and 8,131 passengers were movedin FY05.While each of the divisions are important, logistics is certainlythe backbone of the AMOCC, said Colonel Phil Bossert, the AMOCCCommander. “Without the many hours dedicated to ensuring thelogistics are in line, the mission would not be accomplished.”Structured much like the AMC Tanker Airlift Control Center at ScottAFB, Illinois, the 16 AF Air Mobility Operations Control Center(AMOCC) at Ramstein AB, Germany, offers one of the greatest concentrationsof air mobility expertise outside of the continental U.S.Successes that have been attributed to the AMOCC are clearexamples of effective teamwork within the organization, and itsachievement as the 2004 USAF Small Unit Command Post of the Yearattests to that.“We successfully participated in 31 contingencies in the last 18months,” said the Colonel, and have supported the President forfour visits to Europe last year. These accomplishments would not bepossible if not for the incredible teamwork and professionalism thathas become standard in the 16 AF AMOCC.”Some noteworthy facts about the AMOCC and its personnelinclude:• Taskable aircraft: 52 USAFE KC-135s, C-21s, C-130s, C-20s, C-40,C-37.• Personnel: 83 authorizations including active duty, civilians,and reservists representing 24 different career fields.• Average theater missions executed per week: 100.• Average strategic missions monitored per week: 400.• Number of contingencies planned and executed in the last 18months: 31.• Other missions supported: 4 presidential visits to Europe inCY05, 1 space shuttle launch, 2 Soyuz recoveries, and virtually allthe flag officers stationed in Europe.• 90%-95% of the operational missions USAFE executes daily inthe USEUCOM AOR are air mobility missions planned, tasked, andexecuted by the AMOCC.• A majority of contingencies USAFE executes are either airmobility centric or involve the exclusive use of air mobilityaircraft.• Current AMOCC personnel are collectively veterans of 32A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200619

combat operations dating from URGENT FURY in Granada tocurrent operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and 47% of AMOCCpersonnel are veterans of 3 or more combat operations.• In FY05, the AMOCC airlifted 277 patients within this theaterand helped coordinate the movement of over 15,000 additionalpatients transiting this theater.Ramstein Garners CINC Installation Excellence AwardOn 6 April 2006, Brig. Gen. Robert C. Kane, 86th Airlift Wing andKaiserslautern Military Community commander, announced thatRamstein won the 2006 Commander in Chief’s Annual Award forInstallation Excellence, saying the base is “truly the biggest, busiestand best in the U.S. Air Force.” The award focuses on identifyingoutstanding processes and programs and innovative improvements.Ramstein AB, Germanyto get $1 Million as aCINC Installation ExcellenceAward Winner“This was a total Team Ramstein effort…not only did the 86th Airlift Wing wow theinstallation excellence selection board,but so did the base’s major tenants…”– LtCol Tom Joyce.CINC Installation Excellence Co-Project Officer“I’ve known it for a long time, but throughout 2005 you definitelyproved it … Ramstein is the premier base in the Air Force,” GeneralKane said.This was the first time Ramstein has won the award, said Lt. Col.Michael Marra, CINC Installation Excellence co-project officer alongwith Lt. Col. Tom Joyce. The base will receive $1 million as a firstplaceprize for the award, which recognizes the outstanding andinnovative efforts of the people who operate and maintain militaryinstallations. The base will also receive a special trophy and flag inrecognition of this accomplishment.Ramstein has deployed nearly 100,000 U.S. and coalition partnerson more than 2,100 combat, security and stability, and humanitarianmissions. Additionally, Ramstein fosters a family-friendly installationfor more than 53,000 Americans living in the Kaiserslautern MilitaryCommunity.“This was a total Team Ramstein effort,” Colonel Joyce said. “Notonly did the 86th Airlift Wing and 435th Air Base Wing wow theinstallation excellence selection board, but so did the base’s majortenants, including the 723rd Air Mobility Squadron, CC-Air andour (Department of Defense Dependent Schools). It’s been a greatexperience.”Spangdahlem Growing as Airlift Hub TooNine months after setting up shop at this long-time fighter base,the 726th Air Mobility Squadron continues to set up a key airlift hubat Spangdahlem AB.Squadron Airmen are easily handling the sometimes sporadictraffic of heavy transport aircraft that transit through this hilltopbase, whether coming from the United States or from some basein Southwest Asia, said Lt. Col. Gary Grape, squadron director ofoperations.But it will probably take up to another year to “get all the littletweaks and processes worked out,” the colonel said.“On 1 October 2005, we took control of an awesome ramp andgreat facilities,” he said. “But since then, we have been working toturn the facilities into a squadron.”That doesn’t mean the squadron of 135 people is idle, the colonelsaid. Its Airmen receive and launch from two to eight airlift missionsa day and handle 50 to 300 passengers a week.Colonel Grape said the squadron started working at full speed theday it became operational. Now all that’s left is doing the little thingsassociated with moving.“We have all the necessities done,” said the colonel. “Now we’rejust doing the niceties.”The unit and its sister unit, the 723rd AMS at Ramstein Air Base,Germany, assumed the airlift support mission from Rhein-Main AB,Germany, when it closed last October. Rhein-Main, located outsideFrankfurt, had been famous as the “Gateway to Europe” since the endof World War II. It had a big mission.But when the United States agreed to return the base to Germany,it did not want to give up the capability the base provided the AirForce – especially since airlift is one of the Air Force’s biggest jobssupporting the war on terrorism.The plan was for Ramstein, about 80 miles southeast of here,to handle two-thirds to three-quarters of the Rhein-Main mission.Spangdahlem would handle the rest, and any overflow. The plan toclose Rhein-Main was a long process. But the assumption of the airliftmission was an overnight move.“We had to do a light-switch transition. We handled missionsat Rhein-Main until the end of September. The next day we had tohandle missions coming here,” Colonel Grape said. “It was a uniqueopportunity, something very few squadrons in the Air Force haveever gotten.”As the transition took place, a contingency response group – whosejob is to set up aerial port operations – arrived at the base, set up andstarted moving transports in and out of the base. At the same time,an advanced team from the squadron arrived from Rhein-Main andbegan setting up shop. Their mission was to get squadron programsestablished, support agreements hammered out and starting theA pair of C-17 Globemaster IIIs and an E-3 Sentry (AWACS) sit on thetarmac at Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany, Wednesday, 22 March2006. The transports, from McChord AFB, Washington, and theNATO airborne warning and control system were there to receiveservices from Spangdahlem’s 726th Air Mobility Squadron. (U.S. AirForce photo by MSgt. John E. Lasky)unit’s bed down process.“We were doing all the administrative stuff needed to run anorganization,” said Master Sgt. Spike Speigner, superintendent ofaircraft services.He arrived in June with the advance team. That’s when the teamstarted to help the 52nd Fighter Wing prepare for the base’s newmission and the incoming heavy jets.20 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

“The main thing was to make people aware across the base – givefolks a better picture of what we were bringing to Spangdahlem,”said Sergeant Speigner, of Rock Ledge, Fla. “There was no mobilityexperience here. So we stood it up.”Retired Lieutenant Colonels Robert Ashby and Lee Archer, membersof the original Tuskegee Airmen, visit the 726th Air Mobility Squadronat Spangdahlem AB, Germany. The Tuskegee Airmen visited thebase 21 February 2006 as part of the celebration of African-AmericanHistory Month. (U.S. Air Force photo by SA Kristin Ruleau)Today, the squadron gets total support from the fighter communityacross the flightline. Colonel Grape said wing leaders do not considerthe squadron a tenant unit, but part of the team. He said throughdialog, wing leaders now understand the squadron’s mission.The mission, as outlined in the unit’s original operations plan,called for it to handle four to six takeoffs or landings each day, thecolonel said. That meant handling two or three jets daily – a gas-andgooperation. That is what the squadron’s facilities can handle.But on some days, the squadron handles eight aircraft – and onother days it gets no aircraft.“That’s one of the problems we’re working out – another one of thegrowing pains,” Colonel Grape said. “But we’re trying to establish aC-17 (Globemaster III) hub here.”But to do that, there has to be a more predictable air flow. Theunit is working on a plan to maximize the number of aircraft thesquadron can handle without having its Airmen sitting idle. To dothat requires choreographing what the colonel calls “a ballet ofaircraft and people.”“In theory, with an aircraft being on the ground for about four hours– with our gas-and-go ops – we could be working two aircraft every fourhours,” he said. “To do that requires smooth flowing of the missions.So if scheduled properly, we could work six to eight aircraft a day.”Colonel Grape said that’s a reachable goal. But the problem isthat because of flying times, maintenance, scheduling and weatherproblems four or five aircraft could land at the base and want to takeoff right away.“We can only work two at a time,” the colonels said. “So we’recoordinating constantly with Air Mobility Command and downrangetrying to keep aircraft spread out in a nice, even steady flow.”That is a planning process that’s hard to do when the players are acontinent apart. But, things will get better – the airflow will stabilize– with time, he said.That’s a good thing, because the squadron is literally in the bullpen– it must be ready to handle missions as they come in, said MasterSgt. Rob Ezell, the superintendent of passenger services and the airterminal operations centers.“When a plane lands, or something diverts here, we have to react,”he said. “We know how to do that. So it’s not a big setback for us.”But that kind of hit-or-miss operation can take a toll on the Airmenwho service the transiting jets and passengers, the sergeant said.Everyone in the squadron does more than one job. So, the squadronis doing what it takes to establish a more workable schedule.In the meantime, the sergeant said, “We know what to do whena plane comes in or how to deal with any kind of issue that maycome up.”Colonel Grape said things are looking brighter. The unit is slowlybuilding up with the goal of having 155 people. By August, he hopesthere will be people to work three aircraft at a time.The planes continue to land. Today, there were three C-17Globemaster IIIs on the line. The Airmen who handled thetransports – they must be able to work on C-5 Galaxy aircraft, too– rushed to service them. They fueled them, cleaned them and tookcare of their aircrews.In the passenger terminal, a planeload of Soldiers waited to reboardtheir ride to Iraq. The squadron’s Airmen helped the troops asmuch as they could and provided them with box lunches for the finalleg of their journey. But all the squadron facilities are still not open.As it continues to build a framework for squadron operations, theunit is working on expanding, honing its processes and increasing itscapabilities. So, change is afoot.“There are a few expansion projects in the works,” said SergeantEzell, who is from Baltimore. “We’re trying to expand the passengerterminal holding area. Right now it holds 115 people. We’re going toadd another level to it that will add about 100 seats.”The small terminal, while state-of-the-art, cannot handle thepassenger load and provide some comfort to transiting troops andfamilies, the sergeant said. And it will have to expand to providework areas for the Airmen expected to arrive to boost squadronoperations. Although the building still smells new, open areas willsoon undergo construction to build storage facilities or offices.Colonel Grape said the one-year mark will tell what the unit’sStaff Sgt. Griffith Hemphell inspects a C-17 Globemaster III at SpangdahlemAir Base, Germany, Wednesday, 22 March 2006. SergeantHemphell is an air hydraulics specialist with the 726th Air MobilitySquadron. (U.S. Air Force photo by MSgt. John E. Lasky)capability really is. But he is optimistic results will show the unit isnot only doing its job, but can do even more.“If we have the proper manning and scheduling we can reallycontinue to progress a lot farther than the original plan,” he said.“We set up as a gas and go, an overflow operation. But everyone isrealizing we can do so much more than that.”Into the FutureRamstein AB and Spangdahlem AB have just started their tenure asthe new air mobility “Gateways to Europe and Beyond,” and judgingfrom the amount of money and energy poured into assuring successat the two bases, they should be in for a long ride.This article was compiled from stories from Air Force Print News, 435th AirBase Wing Public Affairs and the Kaiserslautern American NewspaperA/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200621

Register Earlyand Save!Submit Your Registrationby 22 September andSave $70.00!(Compared to On-Site Registration)Registration Form on Page 32.Convention Information Contacts:Hotel Room Reservations & Info: Miles Wiley: (703) 660-9627 | atarooms@cox.netInfo needed to secure a room: Your Name; SSN Last-4; Number of Rooms Requested;Arrival Date/Time; Departure Date/Time; Phone Number; and E-Mail Address.(Read complete details under “Hotel Reservations” on page 23.)Convention Information & Registration: Bud Traynor: (703) 385-2802 | ata@atalink.orgGolf Tournament: Wally Herzog: (817) 573-1554 | wherzog@sargentfletcher.comMagazine Advertising: Nick McCollough: (478) 923-0968 | nmccollough@ray.mgacoxmail.comConvention Symposium & Seminars: Jeffrey Bigelow: jeffrey.bigelow@jdtc.jfcom.milConvention Exhibits: Bob Dawson: (951) 270-3065 | bob.dawson@smiths-aerospace.comAirlift/Tanker Quarterly Articles/Stories/Ads: Collin Bakse: (618) 235-5070 | bakse@apci.net22 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

2006 Convention & Symposium Rules of EngagementWe know that the instructions for the registration form have become quite lengthy, but this is to allow the maximum flexibilityfor the registrant. Without the complexity, cancellation and refund opportunities would be impossible. There are limits to theflexibility however. When Bud and Pam move to the convention site (approx 23 Oct), so moves the A/TA “headquarters office.”The A/TA office phone, (703) 385-2802, will be forwarded to Bud’s cell phone. If you can’t reach them that way, call the hotel andtrack them down. Every year, we have soulful requests for exceptions to our rules on refunds, including membership refunds. Wedon’t grant them. Ever. No duty or family emergency releases you from your responsibility to cancel or from the cancellation fee.2006 Overview:Government folks – before registering: RE-ACTIVATE YOUR GTCCARD by calling the 800-number on the back! 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We currently cannot handle purchase orders or banktransfers.• While our convention fees are extremely low, please bear inmind that partial registration is an attempt to accommodatethose individuals who cannot attend the entire convention,e.g., the visiting associate who is in for the day, or an awardwinnerguest. Partials are not meant to reflect the cost for anindividual event. Rather, they are a reduced convention-feefor that period of the convention that may include food. Morethan two partials can exceed the cost of full registration. You areusually much better off to pay full registration - particularly foraccompanying spouses! Full registration is cheap: Please keepour fees in perspective.• Full registration includes all events (except golf and your hotel).• Use one form for a registrant and one non-member, social guest.Guests register at the member registration rate. If you have morethan one guest, please contact ata@atalink.org for instructions.Banquet-only registrations are permitted. You can use a secondcard for the personal portion of a registration.• Spouses who are A/TA members should complete separate forms.• Members may receive the $245 early rate only if a completedform and full payment are postmarked or received by 22 Sep.CAUTION: You may have great difficulty getting through on22 Sep because of others who also put it off. After 22 Sep, thehigher $275 pre-convention rate will prevail – no exceptions.Incomplete forms OR payment will NOT qualify for earlyrate. Payment must accompany form, regardless of method ofpayment. On error, please do not send duplicate or “updated”forms. Call or email us with updated information.• Postmark all mailed registrations NLT 15 Oct. No faxes/web/mail can be received after 1700 EST 22 Oct (office closed). Weprefer no cover sheet for faxes. You may register at the A/TAregistration desk upon arrival at the $315 on-site rate; however,banquet seating is not guaranteed.• Send one form only. Do NOT fax THEN mail. Do not try to sendpayment one way and the form another.• And no, you can’t pay now and send names later.Hotel Reservations:New this year: All HOTEL RESERVATIONS will be managed by theAssociation, Miles Wiley. Each installation has a room POC thatunits and individuals should contact for room assistance. If youare having difficulty determining who the contact is, please contactatarooms@cox.net. For exhibitors, the Association is working with aPOC from each company on room requirements. If you do not fallinto the above categories, you can attach the reservation form, foundat http://atalink.org/Forms/RoomsRequest.xls, to an email and sendto atarooms@cox.net; or send an email with your arrival date/time,departure date/time, the number of rooms requested, your name,SSN last-4, and your contact information (e-mail and commercialtelephone number). If you have no email access, please call (703)660-9627 and leave a message; or mail your request to Miles Wiley,7803 Midday Lane, Alexandria, VA, 22306.Convention Cancellation:Cancellation Fees. $15 through 22 Sep; $25 through 22 Oct (1700EST), $30 thereafter. (This includes changing charges from onecard to another.) Refunds may be made based on your cancellationconfirmation number, obtained after personal cancellation with Budor Pam Traynor, prior to events, at (703) 385-2802 before 23 Oct; orat their hotel room; or from them at the A/TA registration booth(not hotel registration desk) via the switchboard (please no relayedrequests or requests to other workers). Card refunds will be madeback to your card; check payment will be refunded individually bycheck to each individual. Refund requests without a cancellationnumber will not be honored; so when you talk to Bud or Pam,be SURE to get one! We intend to make all refunds before year end.While refunds should be automatic, subsequent requests without acancellation number will not be honored. You do not need to give areason for your cancellation. Membership dues are never refundable.Relaying your cancellation through an intermediary is too risky.If they forget to contact Bud or Pam, or they try to pass throughyet another person – say a registration worker, or a board memberwho doesn’t follow through – the registrant is still responsible forfull payment. The fees charged don’t cover minimum expenses forA/TA and there just isn’t extra money to cover someone’s error orlack of responsibility – no matter how important the TDY or familyemergency. A/TA has less capability to be generous than the hotel andyou know THEY charge for a no-show, regardless of the excuse. Makethe effort personally; it’s the only way to be sure you won’t be stuckwith the bill.Membership:Membership must be current through November to register at themember rate. The membership fee is non-refundable. When you login, you will be shown what your membership dues status is. PLEASE, ifA/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200623

you wish to register at the member rate and need to pay dues, please,please do it with the registration form – even if you are paying forregistration with a government/company card as you can use twodifferent cards on the form. No need to first become a memberseparately – in fact, it doubles our workload.Registration:Do not send a cover page and do NOT send a “corrected copy.”If you have a correction, just call or email us. Payment must alwaysaccompany the form, regardless of method of payment or form.Registration forms with checks MUST be mailed together. Marryingthem up later is too time consuming and error generating. If you senda form via fax or mail or email, please do not send it a second way, orsend twice. Everyone with a valid email address will be sent an emailconfirmation when the registration is processed. If you register onlineand do not immediately receive an email acknowledgement, presumeyou gave us a bad email address. Login again and check it.Early registration ($245) is only an incentive to register early foradministrative processing reasons – not just for early payment of themoney. This means, for example, if you do not have the name of aregistrant, you cannot just pay by the deadline and get an early rate.Similarly, if you want to register someone after the early registrationdeadline, you must pay the higher rate for the new person as appropriate.The canceled person will be reimbursed at the rate paid (less cancellationfee and dues, if applicable). If you choose to fax your registration form,recommend you not wait until the last day. If the fax machine or the webis too busy for you to get through, we will not receive your form “early,”and the higher pre-registration rate ($275) will apply.To register at the member rate, membership must be currentthrough November. The membership fee is non-refundable. Membersmay receive the early rate only if this completed form and fullpayment are postmarked or received by 22 Sep. Incomplete forms orincomplete payment do not qualify for early rate. Use one form fora registrant and non-member social guest; your guest registers at themember rate. Spouses, who are A/TA members, should complete aseparate form. We can take VISA or MC only with the last 4 of yourSSN, email address, card number, exp date, and signature. (NO AMEXor Discover). Full registration includes all events except golf.Postmark all mailed registrations NLT 15 Oct to ensure it arrivesbefore the office moves to the hotel. After that, plan on web or fax NLT1700 22 Oct, or registering at the hotel Sunday on-site ($315). Onsiteregistration does not guarantee banquet seating will be available.No SubstitutionsThere can be no substitutions. Individuals may be canceled andindividuals may register. Specifically, no one may capture someoneelse’s early rate after the early deadline. We cannot “bank” funds.Remember a new registration must have all information supplied ona new form. Dues are neither transferable nor refundable to a personcanceling. (See cancellation instructions above)GPC (the card previously know as IMPAC)We have been advised by AMC/CCX that CONVENTIONREGISTRATION FEES CANNOT BE CHARGED TO THE GOVERNMENTPURCHASE CARD (GPC, FORMERLY IMPAC). THIS CHANGE WASMADE PER SAF/AQC GUIDANCE AND SHOULD BE FOLLOWED BYALL AIR FORCE PERSONNEL.” (Note: This prohibition does not referto the Government Travel Card (GTC))Faxes:No fax cover sheet is necessary for membership or conventionregistration forms. Save your time and our paper; all arrive in a closedoffice. Cover sheets are immediately discarded. But if you do fax theform, do so only with credit card full payment for membership andregistration. Please do not send a fax with the intention of mailing acheck. Faxes arriving without payment will likely be discarded.No faxes/web after 1700 EST 22 Oct. You may register at the A/TAregistration desk upon arrival at the on-site rate.Exhibitors:There is usually some confusion. The Exhibit-floor-only rate ismeant to cover the food events in the exhibit hall for the exhibitworkers who are not generally participating in the social events. Asa paid-booth-space benefit, each exhibit, regardless of size, gets 3certificates that can be used in lieu of money for an Exhibit-flooronlyregistration. This allows some exhibitors to operate on a slightlytighter budget. This certificate cannot, however, be used as partialpayment toward anything else. In practice, most exhibitors just paynormal registration so they can attend all events. Please see http://www.atalink.org/exhibitors.html.Banquet Seating:Along with your Association’s popularity comes complexity. Inrecent years, we have tripled the number of folks attending theTuesday night banquet. What that means is that we continue to pushthe capacity of our banquet seating and our ability to assign specificseats. To manage the process, we have instituted some procedures tomaximize the service to all who wish to attend this superb event.Key to this is that you make your seating preferences known early inaddition to registering for the convention.Pre-Convention Banquet Seating Sign-up: We will take seatingrequests starting 30 July. Please download the seating requestform at http://www.atalink.org/Forms/SeatingRequest.xls andsend it via email to Bob Ford at robert.g.ford2@boeing.com orbobford01@comcast.net. Please provide the last four of your SSNto aid us in matching you up with your paid registration, as well asyour real first and last names, the ones you used on your conventionregistration. Questions? Call Bob at 703-465-3420.Your banquet sign-up date (priority in seating) will be based onwhen your banquet seating reservation is made. While you are invitedto request seating at any time, your banquet sign-up date will beestablished when payment is received. And while we will take seatingrequests from anybody – Chapters, Units, Groups, or Individuals – thepreferred solution is to get block inputs, so please check with yourrespective chapter/unit reps so your name is only submitted once.For the chapters/units/groups, that means all seats you submitfor your group must have a paid A/TA registration. Without it, thatindividual will be “bumped” from the chapter/unit/group-seatingrequest. Remember the priority: FIRST SIGNED-UP, FIRST SEATED!Email submission cutoff for seating requests will be 1700, 22 October.Award Winners will be seated as a group with one spouse/guest.Special guests/family may be seated at tables nearby providing AwardWinners inform Bob Ford using the request form mentioned above.On-Site Banquet Seating Sign-up: We will try to accommodateeveryone, however; preferred Banquet Seating cannot be guaranteedonsite. The Banquet Seating Sign-up, which will be located next tothe A/TA Registration desk, will be open Sunday and Monday the29th and 30th of October, from 0900 – 1800. The CUTOFF for onsitebanquet seating will be 1800, Monday the 30th. Those arrivingTuesday without prior seating coordination will be not be given aseating preference option.Prior to the Banquet, in-progress seating charts will be posted dailyabout noon in the Banquet Seating Sign-Up Area. A final Banquetseating chart should be posted 1800, Tuesday, 31 Oct. If you have paidfor the Banquet and have not shown up on the seating chart, you willbe seated at non-assigned tables, perhaps in an adjoining room.• NOTE: Should banquet sign-up exceed facility capacity, BanquetRegistration may be stopped and the 1800 Monday banquetseating-cutoff date may be moved earlier. Check the A/TA web siteor the A/TA Sign-up Booth for the most current information.PLEASE REGISTER ON-LINE IF POSSIBLEFor the latest information, please visit:http://atalink.org and click on the “Convention” tab.24 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

17 Airmen Survive Dover AFB C-5 CrashWings-Level Landing Credited forSaving C-5 Crash Survivorsby Louis A. Arana-BarradasAir Force Print NewsA veteran C-5 Galaxy pilot said all 17people survived the April 3 plane crash atDover Air Force Base, Del., mainly becausethe pilot did his job.Col. Udo McGregor said the “100 percentreason” everyone aboard survived the crashwas because the pilot did a wings-levellanding.Emergency responders are on the scene ofa C-5 Galaxy on 3 April 2006 at Dover AirForce Base, Delaware (U.S. Air Force photoby Doug Curran)“The survivors are survivors because heput it on the ground wings level,” said thecolonel, commander of the 439th OperationsGroup at Westover Air Reserve Base, Mass.The transport took off from Dover at about6:20 a.m. bound for Spain and SouthwestAsia. On board were Airmen and severalpassengers. Base officials said the aircrewnoticed a problem with the aircraft soonafter takeoff and the pilot turned the aircraftaround to land back at the base.But at 6:42 a.m. the aircraft crashed intoa grassy field and broke up into severalpieces. Base officials think the aircraft mighthave struck a utility pole, which cut off theaircraft’s six-story tail section. It had a quartermillion pounds of fuel, but miraculously didnot catch fire.Colonel McGregor, a command pilot withmore than 10,600 flying hours – more than7,000 of those in the Galaxy – said there areothers reasons why the accident cost the AirForce only a transport aircraft.One is that the aircraft – almost as long asa football field – has many crumple zones.“If you watch car commercials on TV andwatch them do the crash testing – the moremetal you have – the larger the piece ofequipment – the more the chance you haveof survival,” he said.And the cargo plane has so much cargospace below its wings that a wings-levellanding gives those on board “a pretty goodchance of surviving,” he said.“It’s an incredibly safe airplane,” said thecolonel from Savannah, Ga. “Very, very fewaccidents for the millions and millions offlying hours that it’s accomplished.”The colonel has flown all over the worldin the C-5. He knows the transport insideand out. The emergency that the Dovercrew faced – a heavy weight, three-engineemergency return – is a “pretty standard”procedure for which Galaxy pilots are wellprepared, he said.“In this particular case, the experiencelevel of the crew would suggest they’ve doneit hundreds of times – practiced it hundredsof times in a simulator,” he said.Colonel McGregor has had to deal withsimilar in-flight emergencies during his 15years at the helm of the heavy jet. More thanonce he has had to land a heavily-loadedGalaxy with only three engines. But withabout a million parts, many mechanicalthings can go wrong with the aging aircraft,which entered the Air Force inventory in theJune 1970. After so many hours in the air,the aircraft is bound to experience one ortwo emergencies, he said.“That’s just part of flying somethingfor an extensive amount of time that hasthis many moving parts,” the colonelsaid. “It’s a very complicated airplane.”The colonel remembers a flight intoOsan Air Base, South Korea, when theair conditioning turbine on his C-5malfunctioned and filled the entire aircraftwith smoke. The aircrew made an emergencylanding and did an emergency evacuation of73 passengers – who exited down the slidefrom the passenger compartment on theback of the aircraft.At Dover, the aircrew also used theinflatable slide to evacuate the aircraft.Colonel McGregor said the aircraft hasa great safety record. And the upgradesthrough which it is going – like getting newavionics and engines – will extend its life “asignificant number of years.”“I would say more than 20 years is probablya reasonable guess,” he said. And with theupgrades, “it’s probably even more than that.”The colonel said two boards will nowconvene to find out the cause of theaccident. The first, a safety investigationboard, will try to determine what the issuesor problems were. They have 30 to 45 days tocome up with answers.Then, an accident investigation board willconvene to “find the magic BB, the causaleffect – the things or things that caused orcreated the accident,” the colonel said.The accident investigation board willprobably have to have some kind ofresolution to the commander of Air MobilityCommand by the end of May.“So it’s a fairly rapid process,” he said.MobilityNEWS & VIEWSCommanders Drive FinalRivets Into Travis C-17by Capt. Vanessa Hillman60th Air Mobility Wing and1st Lt. Robin Jackson349th Air Mobility Wing Public AffairsCommanders from Travis Air Force Base,Calif., got the honor of driving the finalrivets into the base’s new C-17 GlobemasterIII jet transport during a ceremony at theBoeing plant in Long Beach, Calif., on 17March.Brig. Gen. Thomas Gisler Jr., 349thAir Mobility Wing commander, andCol. Timothy Zadalis, 60th AMW vicecommander, traveled with approximately70 base representatives to participate inthe Major Join ceremony that marked amilestone in the production of the jet whenthe primary portions of the aircraft cametogether.Brig. Gen. Thomas Gisler Jr., 349th AirMobility Wing commander, drives a final rivetin a new C-17 bound for Travis AFB, Calif.Until that point, the naked skeleton ofthe plane was only called P-154, markingthe number of C-17s Boeing has producedfor the U.S. Armed Forces. After the rivetswere set in place David Bowman, Boeing’svice president and C-17 program manager,renamed the jet.“From here on out this aircraft will becalled Travis 1,” Mr. Bowman said.Colonel Zadalis countered this byannouncing to the crowd that, afterproduction, the aircraft will be dedicatedto the local community for their ongoingsupport by receiving the name “Spirit ofSolano.”“The surrounding communities of Solanohave been terrific in their unwavering supportof our base here in Northern California,”said Col. Michael Shanahan, C-17 ProgramIntegration office chief. “It seems fitting thatwe salute that commitment by naming thefirst C-17A after the community.A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200625

Air Force Seeks New Tankerby Staff Sgt. C. Todd LopezAir Force Print NewsThe Air Force wants a new refueleraircraft, something commercially availablenow, which can be modified to replace theexisting KC-135 Stratotanker fleet.That testimony came from Air Force leadersassociated with the tanker replacementprogram on 28 February in front of the HouseArmed Services Committee subcommittee onprojection forces.When prompted by congressionalmembers, Lt. Gen. Donald Hoffman, themilitary deputy for Air Force acquisition,provided a personal opinion that his firstchoice would be to replace the service’s fleetof aging KC-135s with a new airplane.Air Force leaders told an House Armed ServicesCommitee subcommittee on 28 Februarythat the Air Force wants a new refueleraircraft to replace the aging KC-135 fleet.“It should be a new aircraft, a commercialderivative, and I think we ought to buy onekind,” he said. “The first 100 (should) alllook the same.”The general said he has no opinion onwho should manufacture the plane, onlythat the new aircraft be the same as eachother in both size and design.General Hoffman told congressionalmembers his second choice for recapitalizingthe tanker fleet would be to modernizethe current KC-135 fleet, which involvesconverting existing KC-135E models to KC-135R models.But one problem with modernizing KC-135E aircraft is that even with the work thatgoes into converting them to KC-135Rs,there are still structural problems notaddressed and some capabilities lacking.Various estimates of the lifespan of theKC-135 project the retire date out as late as2040, but as the aircraft get older, the Air Forcediscovers more things wrong with the aircraft.That decreases the projected lifespan of the“Eisenhower-era” tankers, many of whichwere built in the late 1950s to early 1960s.“These airplanes continue to get older,and as they get older we continue to findthings on them, (so) their time of usefulnesswill move closer to us,” said Lt. Gen.Christopher Kelly, Air Mobility Commandvice commander. “These particular airplanes,although they provide us with a good deal ofservice, are not modern airplanes and theydo not give us the capability we would wantto have in modern airplanes.”As the aircraft has no defensive capabilities,its limitations make it difficult to use in thedesert, General Kelly said. Additionally, theAir Force would like to use its tanker fleet forwork other than refueling, such as movingpassengers and cargo. The Air Force wouldalso like to offer both boom and droguerefueling capability with its primary tankerfleet, something the KC-135 can not now do.“We would like to address those issuesin a new acquisition if we were allowedto do that,” General Kelly said. “From anoperational point of view, the increasedcapability you’d get from a modern airplanewith floors, doors, defensive systems, theability to refuel itself and the ability toprovide a drogue refueling and a boomrefueling to receivers, would be a betterinvestment than just re-engining the Emodels.”On 7 March, the RAND Corp. released anexecutive summary detailing its findings froman analysis of alternatives study to replace theAir Force KC-135 Stratotanker fleet.The report states, “A fleet of mediumto large (300,000 to 1,000,000 poundsmaximum gross takeoff weight) commercialderivatives is the most cost-effectivealternative for KC-135 recapitalization.”The analysis indicates there are a numberof competitive aircraft currently available inthis size class. RAND also concluded thatthe present value of all lifecycle costs ofthe combination of the KC-135 fleet and itsreplacement is relatively insensitive to whenrecapitalization begins.Therefore, the timing of replacing the KC-135 fleet should be based instead on the AirForce’s degree of confidence in the viability ofthe current fleet, annual budget constraints,and the operational risk associated withdelaying improvements in the capability ofthe current fleet, the report said.“We are currently working with the Officeof the Secretary of Defense staff to finalizeour recapitalization strategy and timing,while taking into consideration the studiescompleted to date. We remain dedicated toensuring that our warfighters, both presentand future, continue to have this criticalcapability,” said Lt . Gen. Hoffman.Before the Air Force can begin recapitalizingthe KC-135 fleet, the Department of Defensemust find that the analysis of alternatives isobjective and sufficient, and lift the pauseplaced on the effort.According to Air Force officials, thisanalysis is one of the first steps in atransparent, competitive and cost-effectiveplan to preserve the nation’s outstandingtanker capability.Air Force Bids Farewell ToThe ‘Speckled Trout’by Senior Airman Francesca Carrano95th Air Base Wing Public AffairsA distinguished career came to a closeat Edwards AFB, Calif., on 10 February.After flying senior military leaders andundergoing rigorous testing for more than31 years, the Speckled Trout tail number 61-2669 officially retired.“Speckled Trout was the primary transportaircraft for every Air Force chief of staff sinceGeneral David C. Jones (July 1974 to June1978),” said Gen. Bruce Carlson, Air ForceMateriel Command commander. “Not onlyhas it transported distinguished people...there are countless examples of technologicaladvantages that our warfighters have reapedas benefits from the work that has been doneon this great airplane.”C-135 tail number 61-2669 rolled off theassembly line in 1962, and began its servicefor the Air Force as a weather reconnaissanceaircraft.In 1975, the aircraft became part ofProject Speckled Trout and served primarilyas overseas transportation for Air Force chiefsof staff. The Speckled Trout has also been anintricate part of many test programs at theAir Force Flight Test Center.“It is bittersweet for the men and womenof the 412th Flight Test Squadron andEdwards to see this plane leave and go out ofservice, but the time is now,” said Lt. Col. EdTopps, 412th FLTS commander.An Airman parks the C-135C known as theSpeckled Trout after the plane’s fini-flight atEdwards AFB, California, on 13 January 2006.(U.S. Air Force photo by Bobbi Zapka)“We’ll use our back-up airplane for abouta year until it retires as well,” Colonel Toppssaid. “Then we’ll take delivery of a KC-135Rmodel that’s currently in Greenville, Texas,being modified for the same mission.”The Speckled Trout will rest in the careof the Air Force Flight Test Center Museumhere, said Doug Nelson, museum director.“Our museum’s goal is to depict thehistory of Edwards and of flight testing. TheSpeckled Trout was definitely a major playerin both of these,” Mr. Nelson said.26 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

C-17 Surpasses1,000,000Flying Hoursby Louis A. Arana-BarradasAir Force Print NewsA C-17 Globemaster III on a routine airevacuation mission from Iraq flew the AirForce transport fleet past the 1 millionthflying hour mark on its return to Europe’sairlift hub at Ramstein AB, Germany on 20March 2006.There were no bands or dignitaries waitingfor the plane – from the Mississippi AirNational Guard’s 172nd Airlift Wing – whenit arrived after a more than 14-hour missionthat started late on March 19.Senior Airmen Christian Adams, above,and Daniel Wood hang a sign inside a C-17 Globemaster III at Ramstein Air Base,Germany, on Sunday, March 19, 2006. TheMississippi Air National Guard transport deliveredcargo to Al Asad, Iraq, and returnedfrom Balad Air Base, Iraq, as an aeromedicalmission that put the air transport past the 1millionth hour of flight time. The Airmen aremedical technicians on temporary duty toRamstein’s 791st Expeditionary AeromedicalEvacuation Squadron. (U.S. Air Force photoby MSgt. John E. Lasky)“This was just a regular mission for us,”wing commander Col. William Hill said.The aircraft first delivered 43,000 poundsof cargo to Al Asad, Iraq. Then it flew toBalad to pick up 16 patients, including somecritically wounded. It was the same type ofmission four wing aircraft have been flyingout of Ramstein since late last year. Theturnaround at Balad went like clockwork,the colonel said.“We were in and out of Balad quickly,” hesaid. “Everything went real well.”On board, the aircrew and aeromedicalevacuation team focused on the patients.The team was a mixture of active duty,Guard and Reserve Airmen. There was evena flight lieutenant from the Royal Air Forceon board. For them, the mission did notend until the patients were safely aboardambulances bound for Landstuhl RegionalMedical Center, about six miles away.“It was a good flight. There were noemergencies in flight. Even the one criticalcare patient did well,” said nurse Capt. DavidStrickland, a guardsman from the MississippiGuard’s 183rd Aeromedical EvacuationSquadron. “The C-17 is made for this kind ofmission – it’s the best plane for the job. It’svery ‘air evac’ friendly.”The captain has been with Ramstein’s791st Expeditionary Aeromedical EvacuationSquadron for 90 days and has flown on 16missions. Many of those flights returnwith an average of 25 to 30 patients, mostwounded in combat. Last week he was on amission that lasted 26 hours.But on this mission, Captain Stricklandsaid, “We didn’t have nearly the patient loadtoday we had last week. This was a muchshorter flight – we’re back early.”The mission went as planned, saidaircraft commander Lt. Col. Jim Conwayof the Mississippi wing. He said it was aperfect example of the C-17’s direct deliverycapability. That’s when an aircraft picks upcargo on the East Coast of the United Statesand flies to Ramstein, where a fresh crew cancontinue the flight, or it could spend thenight.The C-17 arrived nearly fully loaded, hesaid. It picked up more cargo at Ramstein.Also on board were nearly a dozen membersof the media and their escorts.“The flight was pretty routine,” ColonelConway said, “We had a couple of minorchanges, but nothing major. All in all, themission went as planned.”Loadmaster Senior Airman Sarah Zehringersaid one reason the mission went withouta hitch “is because these aeromedicalevacuation folks really know their stuff.” TheAirman deployed here from the 17th AirliftSquadron at Charleston Air Force Base, S.C.She said the working relationship betweenaircrew and medics is a good one.“We pretty much try to stay out of theirway once they get their patients on board,”she said.Once the aircraft landed and medical teamsunloaded the patients, the significance ofthe flight sunk in for some of the crew. Theywere well aware they would be on an historicflight. And they had even put a poster in theaircraft that commemorated the flight.Being on the flight “was an exciting andhumbling experience,” Colonel Conwaysaid.Airman Zehringer said being on thehistoric flight was a privilege.“I represent everybody I fly with,” shesaid. “And being a woman, I get to representall the women who do this job – and therearen’t many of us. So this is pretty cool.”But like most of her crewmates, she saidit was more satisfying to accomplish a safemission.“It’s always a relief – and it fills you withpride – to be able to bring home woundedtroops,” she said. “I just hope they get thecare they need so they can be with theirfamilies real soon.”Humanitarian Relief RemainsConstant Priorityby Staff Sgt. Melissa KoskovichU.S. Central Command Air Forces-ForwardPublic AffairsIn a turbulent world, with natural disastersstriking at random and conflicts in Iraq andAfghanistan surging with a tide of violence,one thing has remained constant – U.S. AirForce humanitarian relief operations.These operations, planned out of theCombined Air Operations Center, or CAOC,located in Southwest Asia, has answered thecall of those in need, from the bitter-coldMountains of Afghanistan to the devastationleft in the wake of the earthquake in Pakistan.“The bottom line is – we’re here to helppeople,” said Brig. Gen. Darren McDew,director of mobility forces at the CAOC.And helping is exactly what theseoperations are doing, with more than 10million pounds of aid delivered to Pakistanand more than 2.2 million pounds of aidconsistently airdropped to Afghans in need.A priority from day one, humanitarianrelief began before the first bomb wasdropped in Afghanistan, delivering itemsincluding food, blankets, firewood, clothing,building materials and school supplies.“C-17s dropped daily humanitarianrations to the Afghan people in preparationfor the conflict in their country,” GeneralMcDew said. “We continue to help them,but now we are able to come to the aid of afreely elected Afghan government.”General McDew contends that helpingthe Afghan people meet basic needs allowedthem to establish themselves as a free people.“We want them to have a lot of the thingsthat we take for granted in our own country,”he said. “Helping them with basic things forliving – food, a roof over their heads – allof that comes as part and parcel with thatresponsibility.”That responsibility rests largely on theshoulders of the dedicated Soldiers, Sailors,Airmen and Marines, working around theclock from the CAOC to plan and executethese missions, he said.When asked if operations were makinga difference, General McDew said, “We areabsolutely making a difference, and wewill continue to make humanitarian reliefa priority.”A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200627

MobilityHERITAGE & HEROESBrig. Gen. Robert L. Scott Jr., World WarII fighter ace and author of the 1943 book“God Is My Co-Pilot,” passed away on 27February 2006, in Warner Robins, Georgia,after a stroke. He was 97.Though the general retired from the AirForce in 1957, for the following decades hecontinued to serve the Air Force.Known to his friends and family as“Scotty,” the general lived his final twodecades as the “champion and cheerleader”of the Museum of Aviation in Warner Robins,officials there said.The general was born in Waynesboro,Georgia, 12 April 1908, the son of atraveling salesman. He was raised in Macon.From an early age he showed interest in airtravel.His legacy is portrayed at the museum ina large exhibit featuring his photos, books,personal items and memorabilia.General Scott’s lifetime story and flyingcareer are legendary. AWest Point graduate,he amassed more than33,000 flying hoursin 60 years of flying.During World War II,official Army Air Forcerecords credit himwith 13 aerial victorieswhile flying the P-40Warhawk over China.But the general said heactually shot down nine more, though theywere listed as “probable.”But he once said, “You had to have twowitnesses in the formation, or you needed agun camera to take a picture. Only we didn’thave gun cameras in China. I actually had22 aerial victims.” That made him one of thetop American aces of the war.Never shot down, the general never lostan aircraft and his feats in the early yearsof the war inspired an entire generation ofyoung pilots. God Is My Co-Pilot, inspired byhis wartime experiences, was a best seller andturned into a movie.The general graduated from Lanier HighSchool in 1928. The summer between hisjunior and senior years of high school,he took a job as deck boy aboard a BlackDiamond Line freighter and sailed halfwayaround the world. It was the beginning of alifetime of adventure.But General Scott’s life-long ambition wasAmerica Loses a LegendBefore Brig. Gen. Robert L. Scott, Jr. inspired an entire generation of young pilots bygaining fame as a fighter pilot ace while escorting C-47 Gooney Birds over “The Hump,” he hadflown the route in C-47s himself, hauling fuel and supplies.to fly. At age 12, he flew a home-made glideroff the roof of a three story house in Maconand crashed landed into a Cherokee rosebush – the state flower of Georgia.As Scott recalled later, “Gliders were builtout of spruce, but I didn’t have enoughmoney, so I made mine out of knotty pine. Icleared the first magnolia, but then the mainwing strut broke and I came down in Mrs.Napier’s rose bushes.“It’s the only plane I ever crashed,” he said.He enlisted in the Georgia National Guardand President Hoover appointed him to WestPoint in 1928. When he graduated in 1932,he used the summer to sail to Europe. Hebought a motorcycle in France and motoredacross Europe and Asia – turning around atMount Ararat. After returning, he joined theArmy Flying Center at Randolph Air Base,Texas. He earned his wings Oct. 17, 1933,and went to his first assignment at MitchellField, N.Y.In 1934, President Roosevelt cancelledcommercial air mail contracts and gavethe duty to the Air Corps. General Scottimmediately volunteered and flew airmailin an open cockpit plane through the “HellStretch” – as it was know then – from Newark,N.J., to Cleveland.Then he served atour at Albrook Field,Panama. He became aflying instructor afterthat and was promotedto lieutenant colonelduring the expansionprogram before WorldWar II.When the war brokeout, General Scott – then33 – was running thelargest flight trainingacademy in the country,the Cal Aero Academy inCalifornia. To his dismay,he did not receive ordersto go fight. So he wrotenumerous letters beggingfor an assignment to acombat flying unit. Hewas told he was too old tobe a fighter pilot and heneeded to keep trainingyounger pilots.But one night, hereceived a call fromthe Pentagon. Anintelligence officerasked him if he hadever flown a B-17Flying Fortress. Thegeneral – who had never flown the plane– said yes. That’s how he got orders to thesecret Task Force Aquila – to fly B-17s toChina to bomb Japan.After days of flying across the Atlantic,Africa, Middle East and China, he landedto receive the news that the missionwas scrubbed because the Japanese hadcaptured their planned take-off bases in thePhilippines.So he flew C-47 Gooney Birds over theHimalayas instead, flying fuel and suppliesfrom India to combat bases in China, knownas flying “The Hump.”Once, when asked about flying “TheHump” in an interview the general remarked,“We flew Douglas C-47s without escorts untilI started escorting them with a plane loaned28 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

to us by Colonel Claire Chennault. When weflew unescorted and saw a Japanese plane, wesimply flew into the clouds. Sometimes thoseclouds had what we called ‘hard centers.’We were told that if we flew at 16,000 feetwe would be okay, even though we couldn’tsee. One time I came out of a cloud bank at16,500 feet and stared right into one of theHimalayan mountains. I had to climb tomore than 17,000 feet to get over it.”In the spring of 1942, Gen. Scott, then acolonel in the Army Air Forces, was awardedthe Silver Star for helping to evacuatethousands of Allied troops and refugeestrapped when the Japanese overran Burma.Braving blinding storms and pursued byJapanese fighters, he ferried evacuees toIndia aboard a C-47 transport, flying over17,000-foot peaks.Soon Scott met Brig. Gen. ClaireChennault, the tough commander ofthe American Volunteer Group in China– the Flying Tigers. Scott convinced thecommander to let him use a P-40 to fly escortmissions for the transports and he was soonAssigned to the Assam-Burma-China FerryCommand in the spring of 1942, Scottbefriended Brig. Gen. Claire L. Chennaultof the China Air Task Force. Here, Lt. Col.Herbert Morgan, Chennault, Scott andColonel William E. Basye confer before aCATF raid. (USAAF Photo circa 1942).flying daily combat missions – in addition toescort duty.In his first month of combat, he logged215 hours of flight time and quickly becamea double “ace” with 13 confirmed aerialvictories.On July 4, 1942, at the request of ChiangKai-shek, General Scott was given commandof the 23 Fighter Group of the China Air TaskForce – the Army Air Force unit activatedwith remnants of the Flying Tigers. It laterbecame the 14th Air Force.In January 1943, the general, who bynow had been awarded three DistinguishedFlying Crosses, two Silver Stars and five AirMedals, was ordered back to the UnitedStates to make public relations speeches towar plant workers. After returning homehe wrote “God Is My Co-Pilot,” and servedas technical advisor to Warner Brothers inmaking a movie.After the war, the general served at thePentagon on a task force to win autonomyfor the Air Force from the Army, whichColonel Robert L. Scott Jr. in his P-40 Warhawkin 1943. (Courtesy photo of Museumof Aviation)occurred in September 1947. That year hetook command of the Air Force’s first jetfighter school at Williams Field, Ariz. Hethen moved to Europe in 1950 to commandthe 36th Fighter Wing at Furstenfieldbruck,Germany.In 1954, after graduating from theNational War College, he was promoted tobrigadier general and assigned as Air Forcedirector of information. He retired in 1957.Then he pursued his life-long dream towalk the Great Wall of China. After writingmore than 300 letters in two years to askfor official permission, General Scott finallysigned on for a package tour to just get insideChina.While there, he managed to get a visaand travel permit and in 93 days – with a70 pound backpack including 1,200 oatmealcookies he baked himself – he walked the2,000 miles of the Great Wall to completeMarco Polo’s trip that had fascinated himfor 57 years. On a 9,000 foot mountainoverlooking Kunming – General Chennault’shome base in World War II – he left anengraved stone memorial to his former bossCol. Robert L. Scott Jr. in front of a P-40 Warhawkin 1943. (Courtesy photo/Museum ofAviation)that read: ‘General Claire Lee Chennault.We, your men, honor you forever.’In 1976, with special permission fromGen. Charles Gabriel, Air Force chief of staff,he flew an F-16 Fighting Falcon. Ironically,his first military airplane had also beena Falcon, a Curtiss O-1G fabric-coveredbiplane.In 1986, General Scott arrived at WarnerRobins for the unveiling of an exhibit of hismemorabilia at the Museum of Aviation. Hewas asked to stay and the next year movedto Warner Robins to become the head ofthe Heritage of Eagles Campaign – whichultimately raised $2.5 million to build themuseum’s three- story Eagle Building.In 1988, the general released hisautobiography, “The Day I Owned the Sky.”That year, at age 82, he was flown in an F-15Eagle out of Dobbins Air Force Base, Ga. InMay 1995, the general joined 19 veterans ofthe China-Burma-China campaign on a 50thanniversary return to meet Chinese veteransthey flew with during World War II.On April 2, 1997, in celebration of his89th birthday, General Scott flew his lastflight – in a B-1 Lancer bomber from Robins’116th Bomb Wing. His flight log closed withover 33,000 hours in the air – a total fewpilots have reached.In the last two decades of his life, GeneralBrig. Gen. Robert L. Scott Jr. after his B-1flight in 1997. (Courtesy photo/ Museumof Aviation)Scott continued to work tirelessly at themuseum, helping to raise millions of dollarsto develop the heritage and educationcenter. His legacy, he said, was to “teach theyounger generation that if we are strong, wewill never have to endure another tragedylike World War II.”General Scott is survived by daughterRobin Fraser of Bakersfield, Calif., agrandson, three granddaughters and severalgreat-grandchildren.The general was laid to rest at ArlingtonNational Cemetery in Washington, D.C.To learn more about General Scott visitthe the Museum of Aviation at WarnerRobins – now the second largest museumin the United States Air Force. Displaying93 aircraft and hundreds of exhibits ona beautiful 51 acre site, the museum hasgrown into a significant exhibit, educationand cultural center drawing more than700,000 visitors a year. The museum is openfrom 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., 7 days a week exceptThanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and NewYear’s Day. Admission is free.A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200629

CorporateCLOSE-UPA/TA’s corporate membership and exhibition fees havebeen steady for several years and have not kept up withinflation. With our steady growth, the cost of supporting alarger convention has resulted in higher direct costs to theassociation. As you might imagine, the hotels have beencontinually adjusting their rates to match inflation and we arenow forced to make an adjustment as well. The A/TA Board ofOfficers approved several modest rate increases (less than therate of inflation in most cases) and we do not intend to adjustthe fees again soon. The new membership and exhibit fees aresummarized below:• Corporate membership dues – $1500 annually (up$300)• Corporate member exhibit fees – $2500 per 10x10 space(up $200)• Non-Corporate member exhibit fees – $2900 per 10x10(up $300)• Government agency exhibit fees – $2500 per 10x10(govt. credit card accepted)• Pro Bono spaces limited to one 10x10 per agency(additional spaces require fees)Our fee structure is still among the lowest in the industry andwe remain committed to providing the best value to our industrypartners. Although we are firmly committed to all our industrypartners (corporate member or not), we encourage each of ourindustry partners who are not currently corporate members toseriously consider the benefits of membership in A/TA:• Reduced exhibition fees• Preferential booth location in the exhibit hall(opportunity to choose location)• Five “free” annual individual memberships in A/TA• Company listing on the A/TA website (linked to yourcompany description)• Special listing of corporate members in the conventionissue of A/TQ• Opportunity to advertise in the convention issue ofA/TQ (largest circulation)I will be contacting each of our corporate members in thenext few weeks to begin coordinating your exhibit space. YourA/TA convention committee is actively engaged in planningfor another successful convention. Our goal is to make eachconvention better than the last one and we are well on ourway to making that happen in Orlando.Regards,Bob DawsonA/TA Corporate Members (as of 17 April 2006)AAI Engineering Support Inc.AAR Mobility SystemsARINCArmed Services Mutual Benefit AssociationBAE Systems of North AmericaBell Helicopter Textron Inc.The Boeing CompanyBooz Allen HamiltonBose CorporationButler Parachute Systems Group, Inc.CAECapewell Components CompanyCessna Aircraft CompanyComputer Sciences CorporationDRS EW & Network SystemsDRS Training & Control SystemsDyn Corp InternationalDynamics Research CorporationEADS North AmericaEngineered Support Systems, Inc.Federal Express Corporation (FedEx)Federated Software GroupFlightcom CorporationFlightSafety InternationalFMC TechnologiesGE Aircraft EnginesGlobal Ground SupportGulfstream Aerospace CorporationHamilton SundstrandHoneywell International Defense Avionics SystemsKellstrom Industries Defense Aerospace DivisionIBMJeppesenL-3 CommunicationsLockheed Martin CorporationMoog, Inc.MTC TechnologiesNAT Seattle Inc.Northrop Grumman - Electronic SystemsParker Hannifin CorporationPhantom Products, Inc.Pratt & Whitney / Military EnginesRaytheon CompanyRockwell Collins, Inc.Rolls-Royce North AmericaSAICSargent Fletcher, IncSnow Aviation International, Inc.Smiths AerospaceSpokane Industries, Inc.Standard Aero Ltd.Support Systems Associates, Inc.Systems & Processes Engineering CorpTelephonics CorporationThales Training & SimulationThrane & ThraneTybrinVolga Dnepr - Unique Air Cargo, IncVought Aircraft Industries, Inc.Wel-Fab, Inc., Collapsible Container DivisionWorld Airways, Inc30 A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 2006

Corporate Member Spotlight:How It All BeganThe Armed Services Mutual Benefit Association(ASMBA) provides comprehensive,affordable insurance coverage to militarypersonnel and their families.ASMBA was established in 1963 by militarypersonnel headed for Vietnam who, knowingthey were heading into harm’s way, understoodthat they needed to provide for theirfamilies some sort of financial security. Findingthat they couldn’t obtain insurance coveragethrough existing channels because theywere going into a war zone, they used goodold “Yankee ingenutiy” to come with a wayto safeguard their families peace of mind.They created ASMBA – a true non-profitfraternal military benefit association – whichcontinues to provide security and peace ofmind for members of the Armed Servicesand their families to this day. Believingthat the value of life is not determined byrank or branch of service, ASMBA’s founderscreated life insurance plans available to allranks of all services, during all times of peaceor war, with no rank, duty, or geographicalrestrictions. They believed then, and still dotoday, that the men and women who serveour country deserve affordable protection– and first class personal service.Unlike plans offered by commercialinsurance companies, there is no war clauseand no terrorist clause with ASMBA coverage.Members can rest assured that they are fullyprotected, no matter where they go in theworld, regardless of their individual duties,24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days ayear. They don’t have to worry about theirloved ones being protected while they are offfighting for our country – when they needthat protection the most.And, here’s an interesting fact: If a memberopts to be covered under the ASMBA ChoiceLevel Term plan, they get the added benefitof a “suspension of premium” feature if theyare deployed to a war or war-related zone– ASMBA pays the premiums for them whilethey are deployed.About the ASMBAASMBA is run by its members through anelected Board of Governors and an appointedBoard of Advisors, all of whom serve withoutpay. ASMBA has no stockholders or salesagents to pay, and can therefore offer highvalue protection at a very low cost.All members of the United States ArmedForces are eligible to apply for membershipwhile on active duty or still serving in theReserve (including IRR) or National Guard.United States Armed Forces includes activeduty, Reserve, or federally-recognizedNational Guardcomponents of the UnitedStates Air Force, Army, Navy,Marine Corps and Coast Guard,and members of the UniformedPublic Heath Service CommissionedCorps (UPHS), National OceanicAtmospheric Adminstration (NOAA) andMerchant Marines.Cadets or midshipmen at the United Statesservice academies, in advanced ROTC, or onROTC scholarship, and all officer candidateswithin 24 months of commissioningthrough other programs are also eligible formembership in ASMBA.Plus, all retired members of the UnitedStates Armed Forces who are under the age of65 are also eligible to apply for membershipin ASMBA.In addition to personnel eligible formembership, family members may applyfor coverage with ASMBA. Family membersinclude legal spouses and children, includingstep-children, of ASMBA members.What ASMBA Offers to MembersBasic membership in ASMBA is FREE andincludes $3,000 FREE Accidental Death &Dismemberment (AD&D) Insurance, pluseligibility to enroll in a variety of low-costinsurance programs, including:• Silver AD&D Coverage• Platinum AD&D Coverage• Choice Level Term Coverage• High Value Level Term Coverage• SGLI Supplement for Spouses• Child Protection Plan• Senior Security Plan• Survivor Benefit PlanThe goal of ASMBA remains the sametoday as it was in 1963: to provide affordablefamily protection, financial security andunmatched service to those who serve ourcountry so well.ASMBA considers personal “unmatched”service as the cornerstone of their success– whether clients are calling for informationabout their products and services, abouttheir account, or to file for benefits, theycan be assured the call will be answeredpromptly and courteously by a professionalwho is trained to answer their questions.In a typical day, their staff handles callsby satellite from the soldiers in the desert,spouses with a Power of Attorney needingcorrect information, and service men andwomen who have just received orders todeploy and need coverage – fast!Each and every call they take is handledpersonally. They give the same service toeveryone who calls them – whether they aremembers of ASMBA or not – if they can helpout a fellow military person, they are gladto do it, even if it means sending them toanother association for something they maynot be able to provide.ASMBA cares about those who serve ourcountry. Those who serve, and their families,are personal to ASMBA – not just another“number.” That’s why when customers callASMBA, they will speak to a person, not anautomated telephone system.Rapid response time is the rule at ASMBA,not the exception. That’s why ASMBA pridesitself on the fact that every request forinformation is handled the same day it isreceived. And, as an extra measure of peaceof mind, ASMBA guards your privacy. Theyare committed to assuring your privacy andwon’t sell or share your personal informationwith anyone – ever.ASMBA and the A/TAASMBA is, in a manner of speaking,a “founding corporate member” of theAirlift/Tanker Association. One of the A/TA’sfounding members, the late Col. Ken Chatfield(USAF Ret.), was the president of ASMBAwhen he pledged ASMBA’s support of thethen Airlift Association and personally beganencouraging businesses and organizationswhich dealt with military personnel tosupport the fledgling organization. His earlyefforts helped build a strong foundationon which to build a strong and supportivecorporate membership program for the A/TA. Another president of ASMBA, Col. MelLedbetter (USAF Ret.) served the A/TA wellfor many years as a volunteer Associationhistorian. ASMBA has continued its supportfor the A/TA thoughout its existence.On the ASMBA website, www.asmba.com,you will find a testimonial from Mrs. EthelHardin, the widow of the air mobilitylegend, Gen Ernest “Moose” Hardin, whichreads in part, “…Due to my husband’s pastparticipation in your company, I knew it wasan excellent, honorable organization – runby honest, caring people, so what I expected,I received…”A/TQ •Airlift/Tanker Quarterly • Spring 200631

2006 A/TA Convention & SymposiumRegistration FormOnline Registration Preferred – www.atalink.orgGPC (IMPAC) Card Not Valid for Convention RegistrationPlease Read & Follow InstructionsRegistration & Cancellation Policy: See detailed instructions on pages 22, 23 & 24 or on the web atwww.atalink.orga.) NO REFUNDS without a cancellation confirmation number, obtained after personal cancellation only with Budor Pam Traynor, prior to events, at (703) 385-2802 or via the hotel switchboard in their room; or personally atthe A/TA registration booth (not the hotel desk). Please no intermediaries. Email OK but risky. Requests withouta cancellation number will not be honored. See cancellation fees below (bottom right).b.) We prefer you instead register online with credit card (secure) at www.atalink.orgc.) Call or Email changes; DO NOT RESUBMIT FORM or send multiple copies. When in doubt, contact Bud or PamTraynor: (703) 385-2802 or ata@atalink.orgFIRST NAME: MI: LAST NAME: NICKNAME:NATIONALITY (If not US):SSN-Last 4:(Never listed nor given out - For data control only)HOME ADDRESS:CITY: ST ZIPHOME E-MAIL:HOME PHONE:DUTY PHONE:CHECK ALL THAT APPLY:Active Duty Reserve Guard Civil Ser.Retired Mil. Civilian Life MemberService:Badge:(Print or type names exactly as you wantthem to appear on badge)REGISTRANT:JOB/DUTY TITLE:ORG NAME/SYMBOL:WORK MAILING ADDRESS:RANK ABBREVIATION:BASE/LOCATION:CITY: ST ZIPWORK E-MAIL:Spouse:FIRST NAME:LAST NAME:NAMEAlso Show: Organization A/TA ChapterGUEST:NAMEAlso Show:Organization:MULTIPLE GUESTS: Call/Email Bud Traynor for information concerningregistration and fees for multiple guests.FULL REGISTRATION: (Includes everything except Hotel and Golf) Check Box for: Per Person FeeSELF SPOUSE✈ A/TA Membership (Required for Member Rate for member and guest) $40 $✈ Member Early Registration (Must postmark/fax by 22 Sep) $245 $✈ Member Pre-Registration (Early above is $30 cheaper) (Onsite will be $315) $275 $✈ Non-Member Registration (Probably NOT You – Join and Register Above) $425 $Exhibiting Company:Exhibit Floor Access RequiredTOTALREMOVE ALONG PERFORATIONGOLF (Includes Lunch):Requested 2. 3.Foursome: 4.Handicap(s)$130$A/TA REG. 2006PARTIAL REGISTRATION:All below included in full registration above –Full registrants please don’t use.✈ EXHIBIT FLOOR ONLY (Does NOT include Hotel, Seminars, Banquet, Brunch or Golf) $210 $✈ Sunday Evening Reception (Food, Refreshments & Exhibits) $90 $✈ Monday Program (Seminars, Exhibits, Breakfast, Lunch) $90 $✈ Monday Evening Reception (Food, Refreshments & Exhibits) $90 $✈ Tuesday Program (Seminars, Exhibits, Breakfast, Lunch) $90 $✈ Tuesrday Evening Cocktails and Banquet $85 $✈ Wednesday Farewell Brunch $45 $TOTAL AMOUNT DUE NOW: Make Checks Payable to: The Airlift/Tanker Association $Check www.atalink.org for web registration –Otherwise copy this form and mail, along withCheck or credit card info to:Col Dennis (Bud) Traynor, USAF (Ret)9312 Convento Terrace, Fairfax, VA 22031Credit card users may fax registration to:(703) 385-2803 (no cover page please)After 15 Oct mail or 22 Oct fax/web cutoff, registrationsaccepted only at the convention registration desk.VISA or MASTERCARD ONLY (no AMEX, Discover, etc.)By transmitting this form, I certify I have read and understand the cancellation instructions and that ifmy National membership is not current through Nov., an additional $40 will be assessed on this card toupdate my membership. Cancellation fee is $15 if by 22 Sep; $25 if by 22 Oct; $30 thereafter.AF or Org. Card #: Exp: Amt:$VISA & MC ONLYPersonal Card #: Exp: Amt:$Signature (required):ORLANDO WORLD CENTER MARRIOTT RESORT & CONVENTION CENTER8701 WORLD CENTER DRIVE • ORLANDO, FL 32821SEE PAGES 22,23 & 24 FOR RULES OF ENGAGEMENT, BANQUET SEATINGINSTRUCTIONS, CONTACT NUMBERS AND HOTEL INFORMATION