Friday, November 14, 2008
Vol. 35, No. 45
INSIDE TODAY
Row, row, row your cardboard boat!
AF releases names
of new chief
master sergeants
Congrats to new chiefs
Page 3
Pros take on MacDill Joes
Page 4
Bolstering the reef
Veterans honored
Page 7
Page 8
Robot fills prescriptions
Page 10
Annual Cardboard Boat
Regatta pictures, page 16
COMMENTARY
Have a ‘cup of joe’ with the veterans you know
by Tech. Sgt. Scott T. Sturkol
U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center Public Affairs
On July 3, I had the best cup of coffee I’ve
ever had.
It wasn’t that the coffee had a special flavor
or that it was made in some fancy pot. To be
honest, it was a pretty strong blend and needed lots of sugar and creamer for me to choke it
down.
To me, though, it wasn’t about the coffee itself as much as it was the person who poured
it and the people I shared it with. I was with a
group of military veterans.
On that day, I was at the local post of the
Veterans of Foreign Wars in my hometown of
Wakefield, Mich. The event, aptly named “Coffee for Vets” in a local announcement, was
simply that: some military veterans taking a
couple hours in the morning to enjoy each others company over a “cup of joe.”
For me, I had taken a seat at a heralded
table. The veterans I sat with ranged in experience as far back as World War II to Korea,
Vietnam and the Gulf War. I knew as soon as
I sat down that I would be learning some new
things and I’d be renewing my appreciation for
people of this caliber.
Being the “guy still in,” they were all interested to hear my story and my state of affairs.
I, however, was more interested in hearing
their stories.
I asked one of them who had served two
years during the Vietnam War time frame.
He never went to Vietnam because he said he
served in the Europe theater of operations. He
jokingly said, “I didn’t do much.” I disagreed
and told him I really appreciate his service no
matter where he’s been. He added that he did
lose friends in Vietnam and remembers their
sacrifice fondly.
Another vet, this one from World War II,
talked about being on a Navy ship in the Pacific and the dangers he faced daily during that
Great War. He’d stopped at one point when he
was recalling the death and destruction aboard
his ship when Kamikaze pilots of the Imperial Japanese navy slammed their aircraft into
his ship. I could even see him holding back the
tears as he remembered his shipmates who
were lost in those attacks.
During this coffee conversation, I ended up
talking to all of the veterans who were at the
table. These were men I’ve known about since
I was a child, but I never really knew their
stories. It’s always so amazing to me that in
such a small town as my hometown, we have
so many heroes of wars past amongst the general population.
For instance, one of them had been mayor
of the town. Another was a successful business
owner. The list goes on. In my life growing up,
I knew them as people in the community who
were “in the service” at some point.
These men I talked with at the VFW were
but a few of the heroes we see around us every day. Throughout my travels in the military,
I’ve met many who not only have served but
continue to serve.
I can remember, for six years in a row, when
I would go to VFW and American Legion posts
in North Dakota and Minnesota to give Memorial Day speeches and meet some amazing
heroes. I’d go to these rural communities as
an Air Force representative and meet so many
different veterans and their families. Often,
we’d swap stories over a “cup of joe.”
I heard tales of heroism and service. I heard
about from veterans who talked about winning the Cold War, something they were proud
of and deservedly so. I remember a story I
heard from a Korean War vet from the U.S. Army who was there for the Inchon invasion and
was the only one from his unit to ever make it
home alive.
In New Jersey a few years ago , I remember
when my son walked up to a couple of Vietnam vets at a diner and told them, “Thank you
for your service.” The two veterans were surprised and one could hardly speak. They were
just so happy that someone from a younger
generation recognized their service. They even
bought me a “cup of joe” after one of them said,
“You are raising some fine children.”
The list goes on, but my point is simple: get
to know your veterans. They could be in your
hometown, in your family or out on a deployment somewhere today. The sacrifices they
and their families have made and continue
to make, and the veterans who are no longer
here, should always be remembered.
This Veteran’s Day, I encourage you to get
out and enjoy a “cup of joe” with the veterans
you know. You may also have the best cup of
coffee you’ve ever had.
ACTION LINE
The Action Line provides a two-way communication between the 6th Air
Mobility Wing commander and the MacDill community. A 24-hour recording
service is provided so personnel may submit questions, concerns or comments. Call the Action Line at 828-INFO (4636)
MacDill Thunderbolt
Publisher: Denise Palmer
Editor: Nick Stubbs
The MacDill Thunderbolt is published by Sunbelt Newspapers, Inc., a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air
Force. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized
publication for distribution to members of the U.S. military
services on MacDill. Contents of the MacDill Thunderbolt are
not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by the U.S.
government, the Department of Defense, the Department of
the Air Force or the 6th Air Mobility Wing.
The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement
by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air
Force, 6th Air Mobility Wing or Sunbelt Newspapers, Inc., of
the products or service advertised.
Everything advertised in this publication shall be made
available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to
race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status,
physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit
factor of the purchaser, user, or patron.
Advertising information may be obtained by calling 2598104. For classified advertising call 657-4500.
News items for the MacDill Thunderbolt can be submitted
to the 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs office, Bldg. 299, at
8208 Hangar Loop Drive, Suite 14, MacDill AFB, FL 33621, or
call the MacDill Thunderbolt staff at 828-4586. Email: [email protected].
Deadline for article submissions is noon, Thursdays to
appear in the next week’s publication. Articles received after
deadline may be considered for future use. All submissions
are considered for publication based on news value and timeliness.
Every article and photograph is edited for accuracy, clarity,
brevity, conformance with the “Associated Press Stylebook
and Libel Manual” and Air Force Instruction 35-101.
NEWS/FEATURES
Your T-bolt Today
NEWS/FEATURES: page 4
Pro vs G.I. Joes
NEWS/FEATURES: page 4
FamCamp filling up for winter
NEWS/FEATURES: page 7
New round of oyster dome building
NEWS/FEATURES: page 10
Robot on job at pharmacy
FEATURES: page 16
Cardboard Regatta in pictures
FEATURES: page 24
Youth Center Fall Festival
SPORTS: page 26
Flag football after dark
COMMUNITY: page 28
28th Annual George G. Mattar
Memorial Relay Race invitation
Does your unit have what it takes
to be number one? Register today, and
come join the Joint Communications
Support Element Nov 26 for a friendly competition during the 28th Annual
George G. Mattar Relay Race.
The field will consist of a maximum
of 27 teams; each team comprised of no
more than 14 personnel. Team members
are staged at one-mile intervals along
the route. JCSE conducts the race in a
relay fashion with each team member
passing a baton to the next runner at
each one-mile point marked along the
route. The last runner will run 7/10s
of a mile and finish at the JCSE Headquarters Bldg.
All team members should report to JCSE 45 minutes before the start time in
order to pick up T-shirts and team numbers. 1st, 2nd and 3rd place finishers in
each division will receive a team trophy.
Entry fee is $100 per team; late registration will be held from Nov. 17 through
Nov. 21. The fee includes an additional
$15 fee per team and no T-shirts.
The three divisions are:
1. Military-Only Competitive Division
2. Women-Only Division
3. Open Division (Includes military, civilians, & dependents)
For more information about the race
or to sign up, contact one of the following:
Tech. Sgt. Craig W. Bowers (craig.
[email protected]) 813-828-0676; Master
Sgt. Arturo L. Betty (arturo.betty@jcse.
mil) 813-828-0608
The members of JCSE look forward
to your support and participation. Visit
the JCSE public homepage Web site for
more information and entrance form at
http://www.jcse.mil/JCSE_Mattar_
2008.htm
(Story courtesy of Joint Communications Support Element)
Congratulations: New AF chiefs
Senior Master Sgt. Lisa Barile, Special Operations Command
Senior Master Sgt. Joseph Bauer, 6th Communications Squadron
Senior Master Sgt. Ronald Brown, Special Operations Command Central
Senior Master Sgt. Douglas Gosch, 91st Air Refueling Squadron
Senior Master Sgt. David Haney, Special Operations Command
Senior Master Sgt. Larson Johnson, 6th Maintenance Squadron
Senior Master Sgt. Michael Pirson, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron
Senior Master Sgt. Donald Scott, Central Command
Senior Master Sgt. Joel Tyler, 6th Air Mobility Wing
Senior Master Sgt. David Wood, 6th Security Forces Squadron
Flag football after dark
Retiree Appreciation Day set for Nov. 22 at MacDill
Thunderbolt staff report
Saturday, Nov. 22, has been designated Retiree Appreciation Day by the Wing Commander.
As in previous years, a health fair will be
held in the medical building lab and pharmacy
waiting areas of the main clinic from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. For more information please contact
Capt. Dwana Metzger at 827-9293.
Information booths including information
concerning Space Available Travel, Recreation
Services, Casualty Assistance and Survivor
Benefits, Airmen and Family Readiness, and
Florida National Cemeteries will be available
in the Main Base Exchange Food Court from
9 a.m. until 3 p.m. Military Officers Association of America and The Retired Enlisted Association Representatives will also be there to
explain membership benefits.
Assistance in writing/updating wills will be
provided at the Base Legal Office from 9 a.m.
until noon. No appointment is necessary; in by
noon and leave with an executed will.
Review your retiree pay records at the Casualty Assistance Office and renew dependents
I.D. Cards in building 373.
The Base Dining Facility will provide a payas-you-go brunch between 7:30 a.m. until 1
p.m. for all dorm residents, enlisted members
and retirees.
NEWS/FEATURES
MacDill Airman takes on Buc on the Madden gridiron
by Staff Sgt. Patrice Clarke
6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs
Senior Airman William Palizo knew a pass
was coming so he loaded his defense with defensive backs and ran a cover three out of quarter formation. The snap came, followed by, sure
enough, a pass. Airman Palizo’s defense was
there to pull out the interception in the last
couple of seconds to end the game with a win.
His opponent … Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback, Philip Buchanon.
They weren’t at Raymond James Stadium
and they weren’t at the MacDill Air Force Base
football field. They were at 1 Buccaneers Place,
the practice facility for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and the football field was a virtual one …
on the video game Madden 09. There, the 6th
Operations Support Squadron aircrew life support journeyman in two quarters shut out Buchanon during the Pro vs GI Joe gaming event
Nov. 11.
The program started by an Army Reservist and her husband, pits military members in
deployed locations against professional sports
players at different video games to include
games like Call of Duty and Madden 09.
“This event is really to honor the troops and
their families,” said Addie Zinone, co-founder of
the organization. “My husband believes if you
don’t wear a uniform you should give back to
the folks who do. What better way than to play
some video games with professional athletes.”
The Veteran’s day event was a truly an
around the world event. Military members in
Japan, Kuwait, Germany and Dubai played
against Tampa Bay Buccaneers players Alex
Smith and Cato June. MacDill Airmen and
their families were also there to cheer on the
only Military member to play in house against
a Bucs player.
“This was a really great experience for me,”
said Airman Palizo. “I mean to be a part of an
event like this and to represent MacDill as the
only GI Joe present was pretty awesome.”
It went especially well for Airman Palizo who
ended up winning the game.
“My game plan wasn’t good today,” said Buchanon. “That’s alright though, I love coming
out here and giving back as much as I can. I
mean I can go to work and the worst would be
getting a hamstring injury, I could still go home
to my family.
“For a lot of military members, the worst
could mean life or death. There is nothing I can
do to compare. So I thank them.”
Photo by Senior Airman Nancy Hooks
Senior Airman William Palizo, 6th Operation
Support Squadron, focuses on his Madden
‘09 game strategy against Tampa Bay Buccaneers cornerback Phillip Buchanon during
the Pro vs GI Joe gaming tournament held at
the Buccaneers practice facility Nov. 11. Airman Palizo ended up shutting out Buchanon,
14-0 in the two-quarter game.
Base FamCamp filling up fast with annual winter visitors
By Nick Stubbs
Thunderbolt editor
It starts every year around October. An RV or two shows up at the
MacDill gates, not because their
drivers made a wrong turn, but because the base is the final destination on their gps units, or the red
“X” on their road maps.
Like swallows returning to Capistrano, the return of wintering
guests of the MacDill FamCamp
is a reliable, annual phenomenon.
And as of this week, the camp is
well on its way to “maxed out” capacity, said Deborah Anderson,
FamCamp manager. It’s about half
full, to be exact, but if fills more
quickly by the day, this time of the
year, she added.
This year the accommodations
are a little nicer for more campers,
with 134 new concrete pads added
to camp slots. Some 18 partially
equipped sites have been upgraded
to full hookups, meaning more of
the 352 camping slots than ever
have more to offer. And wintering
campers are will be partaking.
Despite the slowing economy,
there has been no sign of reduced
interest in the camp this season,
said Ms. Anderson.
“It’s busy, and we’re booked
with 126 still on the waiting list,”
she said. “Despite what you might
think, we’re as busy as ever.”
According to the bookings, the
camp should be full by Dec. 17, she
said. There likely will be a few noshows, which is normal, but those
spots will be filled quickly by people on the waiting list.
There also are expected to be
a few “high priority” guests, for
which room is always made, Ms.
Anderson said.
“We give top consideration to active-duty members,” she said. “If
they need a place, we make sure
they get it; it’s part of our requirements.”
It’s not a requirement, but providing a host of activities and
events certainly adds variety and
entertainment opportunities for
campers. This year is no different,
with a full schedule of group fishing
outings, field trips to Ybor City, a
Photo by Nick Stubbs
Campers and RVs are swarming to the MacDill FamCamp, an annual
migration that runs from October into March.
Thanksgiving turkey shoot, bridge
tournaments, arts and crafts and
more. There also will be continental breakfast for the campers.
The first big event this year is
the Christmas Craft Bazaar to be
held Nov. 19 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
at the Marina community room.
Loads of items with a holiday
theme will be available to see and
purchase. Those interested in table
space can contact the FamCamp to
pay for display space.
Though the FamCamp is booked,
those seeking a camp slot may
make a reservation two weeks in
advance on a space available basis.
There are no guarantees for those
not on active duty status, but there
always is a chance something
might come available, said Ms. Anderson.
NEWS
Volunteers needed for
oyster reef building
Courtesy photo
Volunteers from a past oyster reef building event carry an oyster dome into Tampa Bay at the south end of
MacDill.
by Jason Kirkpatrick
MacDill environmental program manager
Have you ever wondered “Is there a way that I can
enhance the environment, be involved in the community
and support the military mission?” Well, there is. We
are preparing to build 2,000 linear feet of oyster reef
along the shoreline and need your help. The wind and
waves are causing significant erosion to the southeastern shore of MacDill. As the exposed sand is washed
into the bay and the shoreline slowly retreats, coastal
vegetation is undermined and lost, further exacerbating
the situation. The erosion is clearly evident with just a
quick walk along the southeastern shoreline. The roots
of majestic Live Oaks are exposed and dying; large oak,
palm, and pine trees are washing away; even the mangroves, well known for stabilizing coastal zones, are loosing the battle to the wind and waves.
The new oyster reef installed in the shallows along
the shoreline will break up wavs, trap sediment, and encourage the establishment of marsh grasses. We are in
our fifth year of oyster reef construction at MacDill. The
program has been a great success. Since 2004, we have
constructed more than 1,900 linear feet of oyster reef,
which has resulted in substantial sediment accumulation and the creation of more than a half an acre of lush,
beneficial salt marsh.
What makes the oyster reef shoreline restoration program truly unique is the volunteer reef building events.
To date, more than 400 volunteers from MacDill and the
community have participated in the reef building.
Volunteers are needed to help unload and carry and
place the concrete oyster domes. Four reef building
events are currently scheduled for December 11, 12, 15
and 16 from 9 a.m. to noon each day. We need 20 to 30
volunteers per event. If you are interested in volunteering, please contact Jason Kirkpatrick, 6th CES/CEV at
[email protected] or 828-0459. Helping protect and restore MacDill’s unique natural resources is a team effort and requires everyone’s help.
NEWS/FEATURES
Photo by Senior Airman Nancy Hooks
Veterans honored
Photo by Senior Airman Nancy Hooks
Tampa and MacDill teamed up to help pay tribute to veterans Nov. 7 and 8. (Above left) MacDill
Honor Guard members present the colors during a Veterans Day celebration in honor of those who
are serving and have served in our nation’s military at a celebration Nov. 7 in downtown Tampa.
(Above) Mayor Pam Iorio expresses her gratitude for our nation’s military, also at the downtown
event. (Left) Col. Matthew Arens, 6th Air Mobility Wing vice commander, with the memorial wreath
to be presented to the family of the late Army Cpl. Aaron Griner, who was honored during the 15th
Annual Tampa Bay Veterans Day Parade Nov. 8. Colonel Arens was the grand marshall for the parade, which featured many middle school and high school military ROTC students.
Photo by Staff Sgt. Patrice Clarke
NEWS/FEATURES
New Pharmacy automation brings MacDill prescription service to forefront
The 6th Medical Group Pharmacy at MacDill has installed a new prescription processing system called Optifill II at the Refill Center, located at the food court of the
AAFES BX complex. This new system is designed to safely automate the preparation of
over 4,000 refill prescriptions weekly.
Optifill interfaces with the call-in refill
system, which averages about 300 calls per
day. Its robotic arm fills up to 60% of the
refill orders, which are never touched by human hands until verified by a pharmacist.
The rest of the orders are processed by pharmacy technicians, through bar-code technology, to ensure the right drug for the right
patient.
“This technology has allowed the 6th
Medical Group to streamline the prescrip-
tion filling process, so the focus can
remain on customer service and
patient safety,” said TSgt Thomas
Howe, NCOIC of the Refill Center.
“As we continue to use more advanced pharmacy technology, the
return is a faster, but more importantly, accurate and safe service.”
Optifill went into full production
at the beginning of August 2008 and
has brought the Refill Center in line
to provide better service to MacDill
patient population. Since then, over
33,300 refill prescriptions have been
processed through this new technology. For more information, or any
questions regarding pharmacy service, call 828-2175.
Photo by Senior Airman Stephenie Wade
MacDill has gone high tech with the Optifill robot, that
communicates with the pharmacy system and automates the filling process of prescriptions from the
call-in system. The robot helps reduce man hours by 60
percent, increasing refills by 50 percent filling 200 prescriptions an hour (half the time it would take by hand).
BRIEFS
Officers Spouses’ Club November meeting
The Officers Spouses’ Club will meet at 11 a.m. for
social time and 11:30 for lunch, Nov. 20, at the MacDill
AFB Officers’ Club. This month’s meeting will be in honor of the Warrior Care Program. For more information,
please contact Renee Brunelle at 850-445-4447 or via
email at [email protected].
The 6th Mission Support Squadron
Beginning at 9:30 to 11:30 a.m., Nov 14, the following 6th Mission Support Squadron offices will be closed
for an official function: Education and Training Center,
Airman and Family Readiness Center, Civilian Personnel, Manpower & Organization Flight, and Military Personnel Flight to include the ID card section. For details,
please contact 828-4151.
Retiree Appreciation Day
In honor of retirees dedicated service and sacrifices,
MacDill AFB Legal Office will be offering a “walk-in”
will service Nov. 22 from 8 a.m. till noon. This service is
provided to retirees at no cost and it’s our way of saying
“Thank You”. Due to the number of retirees in our community, there could be a two to three hour wait. An assortment of snacks, along with coffee or juice, will be offered. For details please contact the legal office at (813)
828-4421.
Men’s Health Day
The Health and Wellness Center cordially invites
you to the 5th Annual Men’s Health Seminar on Nov. 18
from 11:30 a.m. until 1 p.m. at the Officer’s Club. Contact Joan Craft at 828-4739 for information.
Great American Teach-In
The Public Affairs Office is currently looking for
speakers to participate in the upcoming Great American
Teach-In event on Nov. 19 across the Tampa Bay area.
This event gives students the opportunity to learn about
different professions directly from the people who do the
jobs. If you would be interested in speaking at one of
the schools listed below, please contact SrA Nika Glover
at 828-2215 or via email at juanika.glover-02@macdill.
af.mil.
BRIEFS
Airman First Class Joseph Rodriguez Fears
6th Communications Squadron
Job Title: Voice network apprentice
Home town: Naples, Italy
Short-term goals: Learn my job — I’m fairly new to MacDill
— and Make BTZ
Long-term goals: My long-term goal is to be able to look back
and say “this is exactly where I want to be,” still improving and
still positive.
Advice to others: My advice is what happens to you is minuscule in comparison to how you respond. A positive attitude can
take you far in life.
Role model (s): My role model is anyone who doesn’t accept defeat and owns up to their mistakes.
Of Sailing and Sinking - adventures on the low seas
Photos by Senior Airman Stephenie Wade
While it may not rival the historical importance of Columbus’ crossing or the adventures of Magellan, the annual Cardboard Boat Regatta at the M
beach Friday certainly rated high on the fun index. (Above left) Defending champions, from United States Central Command, and team Space Jamm
at the beginning of the race, leaving the transom door open for a new champion in the 2008 event. The event was the fifth-annual, and brings out th
daring of base sea-goers to challenge each other in the arena of boat building with only cardboard and duct tape, followed by a paddle-powered sp
all the glory. Perfect weather provided the ideal backdrop for this year’s event, which featured thirty teams, including a first: a high school team — Ro
High School.
Regatta Results
1st place boat: EOD, from th
6TH CES/CED/EOD - rac
time of 30.56
2nd place boat: VOYAGER
OF THE DAMN 4, from the
290 JCSS JCF - race time of
40.30
3rd place boat: REDNECK
YACHT CLUB, from the 6TH
MDSS BIOMED SGSLR
race time of 40.40
Best Boat Design: USS
CHAMPION, from Centcom
CC – J2 – RL
Bob Richardson and Chad Brock from the radio station WQYK, inspect the boats before the race begins. They
were judges for this year’s competition, their primary qualifications for the job being a good sense of humor.
Titanic Award: SPACE
JAMMER, from SOCCOM J
– 39 SCSO - never a boat to
sink faster (3 seconds) or wor
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Team USS Comfort (seen here leading) and team
Inspectors and Protectors, paddle their hearts
out in an effort to place in the top three of the
race. Neither team did.
Team EOD from
the 6th Explosive Ordinance Squadron, Senior
Airmen Seth Parrish, Wayne Howell
and Phillip Harwood, were the kings of cardboard this year, taking first place in the regatta.
AIR FORCE NEWS
Leaders encouraging Airman development
The LEAD Program is an on-going effort to
give our best and brightest airmen the opportunity to excel by offering them appointments
to the US Air Force Academy in Colorado
Springs, Colorado. The program, initiated by
Gen Fogleman in 1995, delegates authority
to Unit and Wing Commanders to nominate
highly qualified airmen to attend the Prep
School with the intention of an Academy appointment to follow. Commanders have the
opportunity to identify outstanding and deserving airmen with officer potential for this
commissioning program.
Slots are reserved at the Prep School for
airmen who meet entry criteria. Airmen
must be a U.S. citizen or be able to obtain citizenship before entry into the Academy the
following year, be unmarried and have no dependents, must not have passed their twenty
second birthday by 1 July of the entry year
(this cannot be waived as it is a stipulation of
Title 10, United States Code), and be of high
moral character. There are also slots available for active duty airmen for direct entry
into the Air Force Academy. These individuals must be no older than 23 on 1 Jul of the
entering year to the Academy.
Application: Apply on AF Form 1786, Application for Appointment to the United
States Air Force Academy Under Quota Allotted to Enlisted Members of the Regular and
Reserve Components of the Air Force. This
form requires the airman’s personal information, immediate commander’s endorsement
(no lower than squadron commander or equivalent), and Military Personnel Flight (MPF)
Assignments coordination. The completed
form must reach the Air Force Academy Admissions Office NLT 31 Jan of the entry year.
Once your application has been processed,
you will be notified by the Admissions office
concerning additional requirements such as
the candidate fitness assessment, an extensive medical evaluation, completion of an interview with an Admissions Liaison Officer,
completion of the writing sample, and attainment of qualifying scores on the Scholastic
Aptitude Test or the American College Test.
Applicants should also be involved in the
community and in athletic activities either in
high school or after high school.
LEAD Timetable
u Submit Pre-Candidate March 1 – Dec 31
(Year prior)
Questionnaire on-line at
http://www.academyadmissions.com/
u AF Form 1786 submitted
u NLT 31 Jan (Airman’s responsibility)
u NLT 15 Apr for Prep School
Guidelines: SAT Verbal 480 and SAT Math
520. ACT English 21, Reading 21, Math 23,
and Science Reasoning 23. Top 40% of high
school class or about a 2.70 GPA if school does
not rank. Airmen scheduled by the Academy
for a medical exam should complete it as soon
as possible. Airmen should not have a leave
deficit or indebtedness. Applicants must be
placed in AAC (05) at time of application, unless they are in student status.
For more information, visit https://admissions.usafa.edu/RRS/PriorEnlisted.htm
VETERANS
New Law Authorizes Veterans’
Salutes during National Anthem
WASHINGTON — Veterans and active-duty military
not in uniform can now render the military-style hand
salute during the playing of the national anthem, thanks
to changes in federal law that took effect this month.
“The military salute is a unique gesture of respect
that marks those who have served in our nation’s armed
forces,” said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Dr. James B.
Peake. “This provision allows the application of that
honor in all events involving our nation’s flag.”
The new provision improves upon a little known
change in federal law last year that authorized veterans to render the military-style hand salute during the
raising, lowering or passing of the flag, but it did not
address salutes during the national anthem. Last year’s
provision also applied to members of the armed forces
while not in uniform.
Traditionally, members of the nation’s veterans service organizations have rendered the hand-salute during the national anthem and at events involving the
national flag while wearing their organization’s official
head-gear.
The most recent change, authorizing hand-salutes
during the national anthem by veterans and out-of-uniform military personnel, was sponsored by Sen. Jim Inhofe of Oklahoma, an Army veteran. It was included in
the Defense Authorization Act of 2009, which President
Bush signed on Oct. 14.
The earlier provision authorizing hand-salutes for veterans and out-of-uniform military personnel during the
raising, lowering or passing of the flag, was contained in
the National Defense Authorization Act of 2008, which
took effect Jan. 28, 2008.
For the latest news releases and other information,
visit VA on the Internet at http://www.va.gov/opa.
AIR FORCE NEWS
SECAF looks ahead at A/TA
Convention
by Capt. Jonathan Stock
Air Mobility Command Public Affairs
ANAHEIM, Calif. — The Air Force’s senior
civilian leader stressed the importance of the
air mobility mission, specifying that air refueling capability is fundamental to U.S. power
projection across the spectrum of conflict.
Secretary of the Air Force Michael B. Donley told the audience of more than 1,000 mobility Airmen attending the 40th annual Airlift/Tanker Association convention Nov. 7 that
global reach is a key enabler.
Recognizing mobility airlift units, Secretary
Donley said U.S. airlift units are delivering people and materials with precision and reliability
that is envied by other military air forces. Mobility forces provide an air bridge between the
U.S. and distant lands.
“Mobility is a national asset and an essential capability,” Secretary Donley said. “The
airlift - tanker team has bridged the tyranny
of distance with enthusiasm and professionalism for many decades. You have shrunk oceans
and closed the gap of those difficult last tactical
miles.”
It’s a capability that can’t be taken for granted, and that is why Secretary Donley said he
is concerned with current sustainment models
of the aging air refueling fleet that will require
the aging KC-135 tankers to remain viable for
the many years into the future.
This decision and others about modernization are just a few of the issues that will need to
be addressed by the incoming administration.
“Early on [the new administration’s] agenda
will be critical decisions on the F-22 program,
C-17 production lines, as well as deciding a
source selection strategy for KC-X,” Secretary
Donley said.
Secretary Donley believes the Air Force’s future is bright and the new administration will
be working closely with defense leadership to
create a steady transition.
NEWS/FEATURES
Fall artistic flair
Photos by Senor Airman Rachel Cunningham
(Above) Children from the MacDill Youth Center enjoy making crafts during
the annual Youth Center Fall Festival Nov. 7. (Top right) Kimdria Mitchell,10,
daughter of Tech Sgt. Kim Mitchell, applies finishing touches of paint to her
creation at the event, while (bottom right) Sam Shepard, 9, son of Mary and
Douglas Shepard, plays bean bag horse shoes, one of several activities that
were part of the day of fun and creativity.
SPORTS/FITNESS
Football night
(Top left) Staff SGT. Adam Roland, number 13, from the
Joint Communications Support Element, leaps to catch
the ball in a game of flag football against the 6th Maintenance Squadron Nov. 06. (Left) In another game the same
night, U.S. Central Command prepares to hike the ball in a
game of flag against the 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron.
(Above) The instant after a snap, the two teams prepare to
collide.
2008 Flag Football Standings
TEAM
MXS MDG 1
OSS
CENTCOM
SFS
JCSE
SOCOM 1
CS
LRS
SOCCENT
MDG 2
W
2
2
2
1
1
1
1
0
0
0
0
L
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
2
1
2
1
AF NEWS
CMSAF visits veterans
at armed forces home
by Senior Master Sgt. Sean E. Cobb
Office of the Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force
WASHINGTON (AFNS) — The Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force and his entire staff visited veterans at the Armed Forces Retirement Home in Washington, D.C., Nov. 10.
The group arrived in time to have lunch with the residents, and then spent the majority of their time greeting
veterans.
“I enjoy seeing people who will take their time to visit
us,” said James McOwen, a retired Air Force veteran.
“I believe it was General Winfield Scott who said ‘the
noblest gesture a country can make is to take care of its
servicemembers’, very close to that.”
“Our veterans are national treasures,” said Chief
Master Sgt. of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley. “It’s an
honor for us to have them share their service and life experiences with us. We all can learn a lot from these men
and women who preceded us in service.”
Sometimes Veterans Day is a sad day for residents,
so it’s very nice for the Airmen to visit right beforehand,
said Allen Kevari, a retired Airman. “This day brings
lots of tears. I often think about the buddies I lost.
Course back then it was Armistice Day, but I still reflect
on them every Veterans Day.”
Visiting veterans is time well spent, said Master Sgt.
Michelle R. Evans, executive assistant to the CMSAF. “I
thoroughly enjoy visiting with the veterans and listening to the stories of their days in uniform -- it’s a humbling experience.”
Frank McCabe, an Army veteran, said visiting veterans is about much more than honoring people who
served, it’s also about encouraging others to serve. “I
think it’s a duty to come and see us,” he said. “When
the young ones see us being honored, they will want to
join.”
Mr. McCabe also wanted everyone to know that the
home is a good place to be. “Hey, it’s three hots and a
cot!” he said.
“I am simply amazed at the energy and vitality of
these incredible veterans,” Chief McKinley said. “There
was a 93-year-old veteran bowling strikes at the bowling alley, several talking about their ballroom dancing
escapades, and veterans moving about. I’m thrilled to
be around our great veterans. They still have so much to
give and being around them makes us all even prouder
to be in uniform.”
MACDILL COMMUNITY
EVENTS
OOH-RAH!
Today
Surf’s Edge Club
Marines assigned to United States Special Operations Command at MacDill cut the ceremonial
cake honoring the Marine
Corps’ 233th birthday
Nov. 7. The U.S. Marines
are one of the oldest continuous military service
branches, starting out as
the Continental Marines,
formed Nov. 10, 1775
The 6 th Force Support
Squadron redesignation
ceremony will be today
at 10 a.m. in the reception
patio room at the Surf ’s
Edge Club.
Monday
Outdoor Recreation
Today is the last day
to sign-up for the Turkey
Shoot. The cost is four dollars a shot. Please contact Outdoor Recreation
by noon at 840-6919.
Fitness Center
The basketball courts
in the Fitness Center open
today.
Wednesday
Fitness Center
Turkey Trot is today.
Sign-up starts at 7 a.m.
and the run begins at 7:15
a.m.
Friday
Outdoor Recreation
Thanksgiving Turkey
Shoot is today from 8:30
a.m. until 2 p.m.
Seascapes
Pirate Invasion is tonight beginning at 5:30
p.m. There will be live music, giveaways and prizes.
Send us your event
To submit an event for
publication in the Thunderbolt, e-mail information with what, when and
where to thunderbolt@
macdill.af.mil
Photo by Staff Sgt Ronnie Hill
CHAPEL SCHEDULE
Protestant services
Sunday - 9 a.m., Traditional Service
10:30 a.m., Religious Education, Noon, Gospel Service
Tuesday -Noon, Promise Keepers
Wednesday - 10:30 a.m., Women of the Chapel
Thursday - 11:30 a.m., Officers’ Christian Fellowship
For more information regarding the Chapel or Chapel services,
call 828-3621.
Catholic services
Saturday - Mass, 5:30 p.m.
Sunday - Mass, 10:30 a.m.
Monday to Thursday: Mass, 12:10 p.m.
Saturday - Sacrament of Reconciliation, 4:30 p.m., (or by appointment)
Jewish and Islamic services
Call 828-3621 for information
AT THE MOVIES
Friday 7 p.m.
Nights in Rodanthe
Adrienne Willis retreats to the tiny coastal town of
Rodanthe, in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, to
tend to a friend’s inn for the weekend. Here she hopes
to find the tranquility she so desperately needs to rethink the conflicts surrounding her. PG-13
Saturday 3 p.m.
Igor
Igor is sick of being a lowly lab assistant with a Yes
Master’s degree and dreams of becoming a scientist.
When his cruel master kicks the bucket a week before the annual Evil Science Fair, Igor finally gets his
chance. PG
Saturday 7 p.m.
Ghost Town
Bertram Pincus is a man whose people skills leave
much to be desired. When Pincus dies unexpectedly,
but is miraculously revived after seven minutes, he
wakes up to discover that he now has the annoying
ability to see ghost. PG-13
Coming Soon
Eagle Eye
Shia LaBeouf and Michelle Monaghan are two
strangers who become the pawns of a mysterious
woman they have never met, but who seems to know
their every move. PG-13