507th Air Refueling Wing - 513th Air Control GroupTinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma

MAY 2009 Vol. 29, No. 5

AFRC winnerSee Page 8

On-final COMMENTARY

PAGE 2 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority” MAY 2009

Reflections on an Air Force deploymentby Lt. Col. Richard B. Stephens, Jr.

Deputy Commander, 507th Mission Support GroupI returned from Joint Base Balad, Iraq, after serving an

Air Force Aerospace Expeditionary Force (AEF) deploymentfrom Sep 08-Jan 09 as the 332d Expeditionary Mission Sup-port Group (EMSG) Deputy Commander.

1. Deployed life in the SWA AOR is physically, mentallyand spiritually challenging—long work days, few days off,physical danger, physical burden of wearing heavy protectivegear, mental adaptation to a new environment and separationfrom family/friends. If you like being challenged—to see howyou hold up—you’ll find out while deployed.

2. Our national defense is in good hands. Today’s mili-tary and civilians carry out their duties well and can be ex-pected to do so in the future, as they have in the past. As aCold War and Operations DESERT SHIELD/STORM vet-eran, I do not see a decrease in people’s ability to perform themission—if anything, our Airmen, Marines, Sailors, Soldiersand civilians are smarter and more capable of working with

highly technical systems than ever before. And they havelots of ideas to make things better. Our NCOs have the samelevel of responsibility for leading and for supervising others’work as what officers are responsible for in other nations.

3. Cold War forces deployed less often. Our militaryforces have always deployed for contingencies, exercises andinspections but it seems from 1980-2000 they were for shortertime periods and less often. During the Cold War, if youwere stationed in Europe or deployed for REFORGER (Re-turn of Forces to Germany), you were the force destined tofight in place against the hungry USSR bear and their War-saw Pact alliance. You trained to hold and repel the Redarmies, including fighting a nuclear war. In the Air Force,one usually had to be a second-term Airmen or officer withthree years of service or more to PCS to Europe becausethat’s where conflict was expected (in a Major Theater Warscenario, Korea was the other hot spot).

In today’s post-9/11 world, our nation’s military continu-Continued on Page 11

The 507th Chaplain’s Office has anopening for the position of ChaplainAssistant. This is a staff sergeant slot.A Chaplain Assistant must be able towork cordially and respectfully withpeople of all religious faiths as well as

with those who have no religiousfaith. If you are interested or havequestions, contact Chaplain DwightMagnus for application requirementsat 734-5632 or by e-mail atdwight.magnus@tinker.af.mil.

ChaplainAssistantopening

available

Chapel Cornerby Chaplain (Maj.) Dwight Magnus

507th Chaplain

Proverbs 31:30-31 reminds us:Charm is deceptive, and beauty is fleet-ing; but a woman who fears the LORDis to be praised. Give her the rewardshe has earned, and let her works bringher praise at the city gate.

Finding the right gift for yourmother always seems to be a difficultchore. Three sons left home,started careers and pros-pered. Getting back together,they discussed the gifts thatthey were able to give theirelderly mother for her 70thbirthday.

The first said, “I built a

Mother’s Day Giftshuge house for Mom.” The second said,“I sent her a Mercedes with a driver.”The third smiled and said, “I’ve got youboth beat. You know how Mom enjoysthe Bible and you know she can’t seevery well. I sent her a brown parrot thatcan recite the entire Bible. It took 20monks in a monastery 12 years to teachhim. I had a pledge to contribute$100,000 a year for 10 years, but it wasworth it. Mom just has to name the chap-

ter and verse and the parrot will reciteit.”

Soon thereafter, Mom sent out let-ters of thanks: She wrote the first son,“Milton, the house you built is not prac-tical. I live in only one room, but haveto heat, cool, and clean the entirehouse.” The second she said, “Marvin,I am too old to travel. I stay at homeall the time, so I never use theMercedes. And the driver is so rude!”

She wrote the third son, “Dear-est Melvin, you were the onlyson to have the good sense toknow what your Mother likes.The chicken was delicious.”

Whether you are on the giv-ing or receiving end thisMother’s Day, do so with love.

On-finalTORNADO REMEMBERED

`

507th ARW Mission: Man, train, equip, and sustain an Expeditionary Reserve Force in support of DoD peacetime and wartime taskings.513th ACG Mission: Citizen-airmen extending America’s Global Power operating the world’s best airborne battle management, warning and control platform.

507th Air Refueling WingEditorial Staff

507th ARW Commander- Col. Jeffery R. Glass

Chief of Public Affairs-Lt. Col. Rich Curry

Deputy Chief of Public Affairs -Maj. Bill Pierce

On-final Editor -Tech Sgt. Melba Koch

Public Affairs Specialist -Tech Sgt. Kristin Mack

This funded Air Force Reserve Com-mand magazine is an authorized publicationfor members of the U.S. military services.

Contents of On-final are not neces-sarily the official views of, or endorsedby the U.S. Government, the Department

Volume 29, No. 5 MAY 2009

of Defense, or the Department of theAir Force. The editorial content is ed-ited, prepared, and provided by the 507thAir Refueling Wing’s Public Affairs Of-fice, 7435 Reserve Road, Suite 9, TinkerAFB, OK., 73145-8726

All photographs are Air Force pho-tographs unless otherwise indicated.Copy deadline is NOON on UTASunday for the next month’s edi-tion. Call us at 734-3078.

Oklahoma Resolution recognized Tinker, Wing

“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority” PAGE 3MAY 2009

Ten years ago one of the most destructive tornadoes inOklahoma history struck central Oklahoma including TinkerAir Force Base.

In mere minutes, the May 3, 1999, twister with its ghastlymile-wide funnel caused approximately $16 million in damageat TAFB and ultimately claimed the lives of five Tinker per-sonnel, one a member of the 507th Air Refueling Wing.

Despite their own devastation, Tinker AFB personnelstepped into rescue mode and aided the ailing community per-forming lifesaving actions and dispatching fire department,security forces, and emergency medical response teams andemergency shelter facilities.

In recognition of their efforts, Oklahoma State SenatorCliff A. Aldridge issued an Oklahoma State Senate resolutionon April 29, recognizing the men and women of Tinker AirForce Base for their heroic efforts.

According to Lt. Col. Rich Curry, 507th ARW Public Af-fairs Officer, “It is an honor to have the State Senate recog-nize Tinker AFB and the 507th ARW members by name inthis resolution.”

“The devastation we saw in the aftermath of the stormtook your breath away,” Curry said. “It was so widespreadand so complete — to see homes scraped completely awayfrom their foundation leaving just a concrete slap behind.”

“But it was during the hours immediately following thetornado that we witnessed something truly incredible happenhere on base. As a team, we responded without hesitation.Phone lines were down, yet hundreds of Tinker employees,civilian and military, voluntarily reported for duty to do what-ever was needed to support this community. This resolutionshows the State is proud to have Tinker AFB as a member oftheir community.”

By Capt. Rich CurryPublic Affairs Office

An F5 tornado ripped through central Oklahoma Mondaynight, May 3, along a miles-long path of destruction thatstretched 35 miles from Norman, Oklahoma past north Okla-homa City.

The twister flattened hundreds of homes and killed 44people. It also left thousands of people homeless.

For those in its path it meant total devastation. Within min-

Editors Note: This story was first printed in the June 1999 issue of the On-Final.

Tinker Team rushes to assist tornado victimsutes after the tornado had passed, Tinker Air Force Base andthe 507th Air Refueling Wing threw open its doors, with mili-tary members both active and reserve alike arriving to hur-riedly put together a makeshift hotel for hundreds of peopleleft with literally nothing more than the clothes on their backs.

Immediately after the storm had passed, 507th memberstook a unit KC-135 out of their hangar. Dozens of trucks rolledup to the hangar doors bringing with them the basics of sur-vival to those inside. Inside the hangar, volun-

Continued on Page 10

PAGE 4 MAY 2009

YELLOW RIBBON PROGRAM

Speaker talks about courage following attackby Tech Sgt. Kristin Mack507th ARW Public Affairs

Tech. Sgt. Israel Del Toro has alwaysbeen a fighter, but it’s his relentless spiritand sense of humor that keeps him go-ing strong despite all of the odds he hasfaced while battling the severe burn in-juries he suffered during an attack fromthe Taliban in Afghanistan in 2005.

The 507th Air Refueling Wing had thehonor to hear his courageous story at the

Wing’s most recent yellow ribbon inte-gration program held at Rose State Col-lege April 4, 2009.

The sergeant was one of the guestspeakers at this event held for Wingmembers returning from deployment aspart of a reintegration program. As theaudience sat with fascination listening tothe Sergeant’s story there were erup-tions of laughter due to the Sergeant’sinnate ability to include humor in everypart of the story.

He spoke of the intensive training hecompleted at the beginning of his careerto become part of the elite Tactical Air

Control Party (TACP) group. Hisschooling included airborne and survivorschool before becoming a jump master.Then he attended air assault school andthrough all of it he excelled among hispeers and always strived a little more.

“I really pushed myself and volun-teered for competitions (duringtraining),”said Del Toro. “I finished thethree-year training program in twoyears,” he said.

Upon completion of the trainingTACPs are assigned toArmy units where theyadvise ground com-manders on the integra-tion and execution of airand space power on thebattlefield. At DelToro’s first assignmenthe was stationed atPope Air Force Base inSouth Carolina for sixyears, before being de-ploying around theworld, as this high de-mand position requires.

He deployed to Ko-rea and Iraq before re-ceiving orders to hisdream assignment inItaly. With a new wifeby his side he was just

beginning to settle down in his career andenjoy the local sites before receiving or-ders to Afghanistan for a six months tour.Even though it put a little strain on hismarriage, Del Toro knew this was hisduty, and headed off to his assignmentwith dignity and pride.

Being part of an elite few in his fieldhe was the Joint Terminal Attack Con-troller (JTAC) on the mission with thesoldiers of the 2nd Battalion of the 503Infantry Brigade in Southern Afghani-stan. He worked alongside two com-panies and a scout team while settingout to complete 25-30 missions.

On Dec. 4, 2005, while the sergeantwas on one of the many missions as-signed during his tour, he was accompa-nying a new second lieutenant and re-cent graduate of West Point. When thelieutenant saw a man on the hill he got inhis truck and took off, Del Toro and theother troops soon followed right after.

“When you’re out there you’re allteammates taking care of each other,”said Del Toro. “You also must alwaysbe aware of your surroundings-neverstop or get distracted,” he said.

By the time they got there the en-emy was gone. After they crossed thecreek on their return back Del Toro feltsomething hit his left side. When he gotout of his truck he was engulfed inflames.

“I tried to run but got tired and col-lapsed-my body started shutting down,”said. Del Toro. “I couldn’t stop thinkingabout my wife and son.”

The lieutenant came by his side andsaid, “DT, you’re not going to die- youhave to be there for your son,” thenhelped them both jump in the creek.They called for help and after arrivingat the hospital the last thing he remem-bered before slipping away was the doc-tor cutting off his favorite watch.

When Del Toro woke up in March2006 he was told by doctors that he suf-fered 80 percent burns on his entire bodyand only had a 20 percent chance of liv-ing. He would have to remain in thehospital for two years and may not walkagain; at best he would be on a respira-tor for the rest of his life.

“I had people who flew in to visitme from all over the world,” said DelToro. There were Chiefs that would visitand also help with my family. I was sup-posed to die three times in the hospitalbut made it through.”

Del Toro began progressing quicklyand was out of the hospital and back

Tech Sgt. Israel Del Toro speaks at the yellowribbon integration program held on April 4.

Continued on Page 6

“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority” PAGE 5MAY 2009

RETIREMENT

40 years of service

Cardoni prepares for his retirement yearsby Tech Sgt. Melba Koch507th ARW Public Affairs

With a military career spanning 40years here at Tinker Air Force Base,Master Sgt. John Cardoni, the Inspec-tion Section Dock Chief with the 507thMaintenance Squadron, retires thismonth. Cardoni joined the military June27, 1969 and officially retires May 18,2009.

“I was not ready for college,” saidCardoni. “I was also looking for a tradeat which to work and earn some moneyfor a car and school.”

Cardoni’s entire military career hasbeen with the Reserves. And he has seenmany changes in the Reserve since hejoined. His original unit was the 937thMilitary Airlift Group, flying the C-124Globemaster II. “When we converted tothe F-105 Thunder Chief, we becamethe 507th,” continued Cardoni.

When asked what goals he set forhimself in his position, John quickly said,“My main goal was and still is to do myjob and make my boss’s job easier.”

“And that is exactly what John hasdone as a co-worker and friend,” saidSenior Master Sgt. Ronald Mitchell, hissupervisor. “I hate to say ‘employee orsubordinate’ because I always have feltwe were co-supervisors; him taking careof me and our flight and me filling in thegaps taking care of him and the flight,”continued Mitchell. “I must say that heis a Gruff Ole ‘Wolf man’ that will begreatly missed and those will be bigshoes to fill with his retirement,” con-cluded Mitchell.

“One of my most memorable ac-counts of Master Sergeant Cardoni’scareer was in the fighter aircraft dayswhen he would wear a wolf’s mask,”said Chief Master Sgt. Joe La Fitte,507th Maintenance Squadron Superin-tendent. “He would ride his bike up and

down the flight line and scare the day-lights out of you! From that day on, hewas A.K.A. ‘Wolfman,’” said the chief.

Cardoni hasheld a variety of po-sitions over theyears, including acrew chief on recip-rocating engine andjet engine aircraft,an egress techni-cian, a weaponsloader, an inspec-tion dock technicianand currently as in-spection sectiondock chief. He be-came an Air Reserve Technician (ART)30 years ago.

When asked if he could do one por-tion of his career over again, what wouldit be, Cardoni left us hanging with,“That’s hard to answer because if I hada second shot to do something, I wouldprobably end up in prison.”

Cardoni’s advice for younger Airmen:To some I would say you are doing whatI wish I had done at your age, and toothers I would just say RUN!

As far as retirement plans, Cardonisays he has nothing specific in mind but

to just keep busy for the first 30 years orso. After that “I’ll just take it easy.”

“The work I did as an egress tech-nician was per-sonally the mostsatisfying in thatfour aircrewmembers flyingour F-4 aircrafts u c c e s s f u l l yejected from adisabled aircraft,utilizing the es-cape system that Ihelped maintain,”said Cardoni. Hedeployed once

with the unit in 2003 for four months.His deployment took him to MasirahIsland Oman during operations NobleEagle/Enduring Freedom.

Cardoni is thankful he has family thatsupported him along this journey. “I amof Italian and German decent; half myfamily was praying for me and theother half wanted to go with me,” hesaid. “But in all seriousness, my wifeRobin has been there all the way. Shewould hold down the fort at home when-ever I had to go on various trips aroundthe world,” concluded Cardoni.

The Year 1969* Average cost of a new house … $15,550* Average income per year … $8,550* Average monthly rent … $135* Average cost of a new car … $3,270* Gas per gallon … 35 cents* First man landed on the moon* Richard Nixon was President of the United States* US Air Force closed its Project (Blue Book)* The Beatles released their final album Abbey Road* Sesame Street makes its debut on PBS* Popular Films: The Love Bug, Easy Rider, Funny Girl* Popular Singers: The Rolling Stones, James Brown, Johnny Cash* Born this year: Catherine Zeta-Jones and Brett Favre

Master Sgt. John Cardoni

PAGE 6 MAY 2009

On-final513th ACG

Col. Mittuch will be missedMost of you have heard by now, but on Sunday morning of

the April UTA, Col. Steve Mittuch was killed riding in theback of a taxi on his way to the Atlanta airport. A drunkdriver took his life, driving the wrong way on a highway, self-ishly stealing a talented officer, a loving husband, son, brother,uncle, friend. It was a freak incident, but it was no accident.Someone chose to drink and drive, a choice that killed andinjured innocent people.

Dell Robertson and I attended Steve’s memorial ser-vice at Hill AFB, where Steve was commander of a Main-tenance Group. One of his squadron commanders read aselection of e-mails Steve had sent out to his Group overthe last couple of years. “Standards” was the recurringtheme — enforcing standards in others and ourselves.Ironically, he was killed by someone who ignored such a basicstandard: “Don’t drink and drive.” I’m comfortable with“standards” standing as Steve’s legacy, not just to this unit,but our Air Force.

Though he left three years ago, no one had a greater im-pact on this unit than Col. Steve Mittuch. He, along with a

handful of others,began this unit 13years ago. What hehelped build hasproven its valuetime and again.The 513th wouldnot be the unit it istoday withoutSteve’s influence.We mourn his lossand his tragic,senseless death. Icannot explain whythe accident hap-pened; I won’t try.I leave you with thewords of Isaiah40:31: “…thosewho hope in the LORD will renew their strength. They willsoar on wings like eagles; they will run and not grow weary.”

In lieu of flowers, Steve’s wife Cinde has requested dona-tions to Layton Christian Academy, (801) 771-7141 ext 5402352 East Hwy. 193, Layton, UT 84040

If you would like to write to her, the address is: CindeMittuch, c/o 419 FW, 5649 Industrial Lane, Bldg 513, HillAFB, UT 84056

By Col. John Trnka

513th Air Control GroupCommander

Col. Steve Mittuch

home in May 2006, after only twomonths, 22 months ahead of schedule.

“When I looked at myself at the mir-ror I looked like a monster and brokedown,” said Del Toro. “I thought aboutmy son and wondered if he would beafraid of me.

“After arriving home my son camerunning out and he stopped, looked, andgave me a big hug,” said Del Toro. “Itwas the best hug I’ve ever had.”

After Del Toro returned home he con-tinued therapy at Brooks Army hospitalin San Antonio, Texas. He has enduredmultiple surgeries, skin grafts and physi-cal therapy as part of his rehabilitationprogram.

In June 2006, shortly after his releasefrom the hospital, he accepted a purpleheart from General T. Michael Moseley,

then Chief of Staff for the Air Force.General Moseley also told him he had astory to tell, and urged him to tell it.

“The day of the ceremony I workedhard to be able towalk to the stageand accept theaward,” said DelToro. “It hurt, butI did it. I wanted toshow my familyand friends I’mstrong.”

Del Toro contin-ues to tell his storyto people around thecountry speaking tomilitary groups,sports teams andchildren sharing hisinspirational experi-

Unit members and spouses attended the yellowribbon integration program on April 4.

Unit holds yellow ribbon integration program for deployment returneesContinued from Page 4 ence. He gets stronger every day

through his fiery, upbeat attitude, treat-ments and unwavering support of hisfriends and family.

TRAINING PLANNER A1

FY 09-10 UTA SCHEDULE

06-07 Jun 09 11-12 July 09 01-02 Aug 09 12-13 Sep 09 03-04 Oct 09 07-08 Nov 09 05-06 Dec 09 09-10 Jan 10 06-07 Feb 10 06-07 Mar 10 10-11 Apr 10 01-02 May 10

05-06 Jun 10 10-11 Jul 10 07-08 Aug 10 11-12 Sep 10

As of April 27, 2009

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------AFRC NCO LEADERSHIP DEVELOPMENT COURSEThe succcess of the Air Force Reserve NCO corps depends on their ability to applyleadership and management skills learned primarily in a civilian setting to a military environ-ment. Not all of today’s mid-level NCOs have extensive first-hand supervisory experi-ence in a reserve environment; therefore, the instruction in this course is intendedto improve the students’ military supervisor capabilities and understanding oftheir positions as related to the USAFR. We focus on individual improvement whichis ultimately the real source of organizational excellence and success. Next classis scheduled for June 1-12, 2009. See unit training manager for information.----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

FAMILY CAREIf you need to be on the Family Care Plan, notify your first sergeant ASAP - IAW AFI 36-2908. Single parents and dual military couples with children must have a Family Care Plancompleted within 90 days of in-processing or family status change. VIRTUAL MPF1. Address Changes - You no longer have to go to 4 different screens/areas toupdate your address!!!2. Point Summaries - Point Summarys can also be viewed and printed.3. Record Review RIPs - You will now be notified via e-mail, on your birthday, to logon to vMPF to review your RIP.4. Awards and decorations - You can also get a picture display of your awards anddecorations.

HOT TOPICS : All testing (paper and computer) must bescheduled by sending an e-mail to507.msf.dpmt@tinker.af.mil with the time anddate that you would like to test and include thecourse number.Computer-based testing on the UTA isavailable on Sunday at 0800 and 1300 in Bldg.1043, ATN Room in the basement.Please schedule all tests NLT 1500 on Fridaybefore the UTA. If you are unable to keep thescheduled time please e-mail the training officeor call 734-7075 prior to scheduled testing time.All testing is also available on Wednesdays at0800 and 1300 and Thursdays at 1300.NOTE: If you are retaking a test, you mustbring the authorization letter with you or youwill not be allowed to test.

EDUCATION REMINDER:This is just to remind everyone who wishes to

update their Education Records, officer and enlisted,that we need OFFICIAL transcripts to send oraccomplish any updates. This means that itCANNOT say "ISSUED TO STUDENT." Youmay have the college/university send it, we canrequest it, or you may bring it in as long as it is in asealed envelope with a SEAL on the flap AND itdoes not say "ISSUED TO STUDENT."

Pass and ID Hours of Operation: 0800 -1200 on Saturdays of the UTA. IEU open from 1200-1500 on Saturdayof the main UTA.

Nomination packages for AMN, NCO, or SNCOof the quarter are submitted quarterly. Packagesare due by 1400, on Saturday of the UTA after theend of the quarter. (Apr, Jul, Oct, Jan)

FREE COLLEGE TESTINGAir Force Reserve members, spouses and civilian employees may take DANTESSubject Standardized Tests (DSSTs) or College-Level Examinations Program(CLEP) or Excelsior College Examinations (ECE) FREE! (Military Only forExcelsior examinations). These examinations test college-level knowledge you mayhave gained through your job, reading, travel, or hobbies. You must test at yourReserve DANTES approved test center. Testing at another DANTES test centerwill be on a case-by-case basis. For more information or to schedule testing,contact Chief Master Sgt. Sharlotte Epps in the MPF Education and TrainingOffice at 734-7075.---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------FOREIGN LANGUAGE PROFICIENCY PAY (FLPP)Reservists may apply for FLPP by submitting a written request for FLPP testing tohis/her commander. FLPP I requires you to be on a tour of duty that requires thelanguage. FLPP II for authorized languages will pay based on active duty days orIDT periods performed. If you are proficient at a foreign language and are interestedin this program please contact Chief Master Sgt. Sharlotte Epps or Master Sgt.Sharon Lochman in the MPF Education Office at 734-7075 for instructions on how toapply for FLPP.------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

TUITION ASSISTANCEReserve members are eligible to apply for TA for Distance Learning and In-Residencecourses to further their education up to a Master's Degree. The basic enrollment requirements are that you must: Be a participating member in good standing (no UIF, Article 15, etc.). Retainability: Officers - two years; Enlisted - ETS after course completion. Enrollment form must show course number/title, credit hours and cost of tuition.Complete TA forms in our office PRIOR to class start date.Payment occurs after satisfactory course completion. You must provide a paid receiptand your grade NLT 60 days after course completion. TA reimbursement amountsare set at 100 percent ($4500) per FY (Masters) or 100 percent ($4500) per FY (Bach-elors). For more information contact Chief Master Sgt. Sharlotte Epps or Ms. KimSilkwood in the MPF Education and Training Office at 734-7075.

MAY TRAINING PLANNERA2

Fri,

5 Ju

ne 2

009

1300

Pre-

UTA

Cm

dr S

taff

Mtg

Bld

g 10

30, M

SG C

onf R

m14

00Pr

e-U

TA F

irst S

gts

Mtg

Bld

g 10

66, O

G C

onf R

oom

1500

Pre-

UTA

CC

hief

& 1

st S

gt M

tgB

ldg.

106

6, O

G C

onf R

oom

1600

Top

3 Ex

ecut

ive

Boa

rd M

tgBl

dg 10

43, A

TN R

oom

Sat,

6 J

une

200

9U

nit

Des

igna

ted

Sign

In

Uni

t D

esig

nate

d07

30-0

930

New

com

ers

In-P

roce

ssin

gB

ldg

1043

, Roo

m 2

0308

00-1

500

MPF

-See

Pag

e A

3 fo

r sp

ecifi

c tim

es09

00-0

930

6 M

onth

Con

tact

Mtg

Bld

g 10

43, C

C C

onf R

m09

00-1

000

Man

dato

ry 3

A0X

1 Tn

gB

ldg

1066

, OG

Con

f Rm

1000

-113

0N

ewco

mer

s O

rient

atio

nB

ldg

1030

, MSG

Con

f Rm

1000

-110

0M

obili

ty R

ep M

eetin

gTo

Be

Det

erm

ined

1300

-154

5N

ewco

mer

s Anc

illar

y Tn

g Ph

IB

ldg

1030

, MSG

Con

f Rm

1300

-140

0A

dver

se A

ctio

ns M

tgW

g C

omm

ande

r’s o

ffice

1300

-140

0W

g. C

aree

r Adv

isor

Trn

gB

ldg

1066

, OG

Con

f Roo

m14

00-1

500

Trai

ning

Man

ager

s Mtg

Bld

g 10

43, C

C C

onf R

oom

Uni

t Des

igna

ted

Sign

Out

Uni

t Des

igna

ted

Sun,

7 J

une

2009

Uni

t D

esig

nate

dSi

gn I

nU

nit

Des

igna

ted

1130

-150

0M

PF-S

ee P

age

A3

for

spec

ific

times

0730

-080

0Pr

otes

tant

Cha

pel

Serv

ice

513t

h A

CG

Aud

itori

um07

30-0

800

Cat

holic

Mas

sB

ldg.

106

6 O

G C

onf

Rm

0750

- by

app

tC

DC

tes

ting

Bld

g 10

43, A

TN R

oom

0800

-110

0N

ewco

mer

s Anc

illar

y Tn

g Ph

II B

ldg

1030

, MSG

Con

f Rm

0900

-100

0En

liste

d Adv

isory

Cou

ncil

Bld

g 10

43, C

C C

onf R

m09

00-1

130

OSH

A10

for S

fty C

om M

brs

Bld

g 10

66, O

G C

onf R

m09

00-1

000

Man

dato

ry 3

A0X

1 Tn

gTo

Be

Det

erm

ined

1015

-111

5M

anda

tory

3S0

X1

Trng

Bld

g 10

43, R

m 2

0313

00, b

y ap

pt. C

DC

Tes

ting

Bld

g 11

043,

AT

N13

00-1

600

Firs

t Dut

y St

atio

nB

ldg

1030

, MSG

Con

f Rm

1300

SOR

TS/

Post

UTA

Mtg

CAT

1400

-150

0IG

per

iod

w/C

apt.

Vard

aro

Bld

g 10

43, R

oom

5TB

DTO

P 3

Gen

eral

Mee

ting

TBD

Uni

t D

esig

nate

dSi

gn O

utU

nit

Des

igna

ted

Fri,

1 M

ay 2

009

1300

Pre-

UTA

Cm

dr S

taff

Mtg

Bld

g 10

30, M

SG C

onf R

m14

00Pr

e-U

TA F

irst S

gts

Mtg

Bld

g 10

66, O

G C

onf R

oom

1500

Pre-

UTA

CC

hief

& 1

st S

gt M

tgB

ldg.

106

6, O

G C

onf R

oom

1600

Top

3 Ex

ecut

ive

Boa

rd M

tgBl

dg 10

43, A

TN R

oom

Sat,

2 M

ay 2

009

Uni

t D

esig

nate

dSi

gn I

nU

nit

Des

igna

ted

0730

-093

0N

ewco

mer

s In

-Pro

cess

ing

Bld

g 10

43, R

oom

203

0800

-150

0M

PF-S

ee P

age

A3

for

spec

ific

times

0900

-093

06

Mon

th C

onta

ct M

tgB

ldg

1043

, CC

Con

f Rm

0900

-100

0M

anda

tory

3A

0X1

Tng

Bld

g 10

66, O

G C

onf R

m10

00-1

130

New

com

ers

Orie

ntat

ion

Bld

g 10

30, M

SG C

onf R

m10

00-1

100

Mob

ility

Rep

Mee

ting

To B

e D

eter

min

ed13

00-1

545

New

com

ers A

ncill

ary

Tng

Ph I

Bld

g 10

30, M

SG C

onf R

m13

00-1

400

Adv

erse

Act

ions

Mtg

Wg

Com

man

der’s

offi

ce13

00-1

400

Wg.

Car

eer A

dvis

or T

rng

Bld

g 10

66, O

G C

onf R

oom

1400

-150

0Tr

aini

ng M

anag

ers M

tgB

ldg

1043

, CC

Con

f Roo

mU

nit D

esig

nate

dSi

gn O

utU

nit D

esig

nate

d

Sun,

3 M

ay 2

009

Uni

t D

esig

nate

dSi

gn I

nU

nit

Des

igna

ted

1130

-150

0M

PF-S

ee P

age

A3

for

spec

ific

times

0730

-080

0Pr

otes

tant

Cha

pel

Serv

ice

513t

h A

CG

Aud

itori

um07

30-0

800

Cat

holic

Mas

sB

ldg.

106

6 O

G C

onf

Rm

0750

- by

app

tC

DC

tes

ting

Bld

g 10

43, A

TN R

oom

0800

-110

0N

ewco

mer

s Anc

illar

y Tn

g Ph

II B

ldg

1030

, MSG

Con

f Rm

0900

-100

0En

liste

d Adv

isory

Cou

ncil

Bld

g 10

43, C

C C

onf R

m09

00-1

130

Supr

v Sa

fety

Trn

gB

ldg

1066

, OG

Con

f Rm

0900

-100

0M

anda

tory

3A

0X1

Tng

To B

e D

eter

min

ed10

15-1

115

Man

dato

ry 3

S0X

1 Tr

ngB

ldg

1043

, Rm

203

1300

, by

appt

. CD

C T

esti

ngB

ldg

1104

3, A

TN

1300

-160

0Fi

rst D

uty

Stat

ion

Bld

g 10

30, M

SG C

onf R

m13

00SO

RT

S/Po

st U

TA M

tgC

AT14

00-1

500

IG p

erio

d w

/Cap

t. Va

rdar

oB

ldg

1043

, Roo

m 5

TBD

TOP

3 G

ener

al M

eetin

gTB

DU

nit

Des

igna

ted

Sign

Out

Uni

t D

esig

nate

d

MAY TRAINING PLANNER A3

Editor: Chief Master Sgt. Sharlotte A. Epps, Chief, Education & Training (ART)Assistant Editor: Master Sgt. Sharon Lochman, Asst. Chief, Education & Training (ART)

If you need assistance or have suggestions on how we can improve our service to you, please call us at (405) 734-7075, or stop by our office in Building 1043, Room 213.

Ethics Briefing:All reserve personnel are required to havethe DOD Ethics Briefing within 90 days ofreporting for duty. This briefing is held inconjunction with the UCMJ briefing duringthe monthly Newcomers Ancillary Trainingat 0830 on Sunday of the UTA in Bldg 1030,MSG Conference Room.

UCMJ Briefing:Article 137 of the UCMJ requires “articles(of the code) shall be explained again ... atthe time when the membr reenlists.” In aneffort to ensure compliance with thisrequirement of the UCMJ, members whoare selected for reenlistment must obtaintheir Article 137 briefing prior to theirreenlistment. This briefing is presentlybeing given at 0830 on Sunday of the UTAat Bldg. 1030, MSG conference room.Members who need the training must bringtheir reenlistment checklist so it can beannotated.

Newcomers Ancillary Training

BAQ RecertificationDeadlines

If Last Then Forward Recertifica-Digit of Listing to Unit tion due inSSAN is: Commander in: by end of

month in: 1 November January 2 December February 3 January March 4 February April 5 March May 6 April June 7 May July 8 June August 9 July September 0 August October

Emergency Management:Unit Training Managers must scheduleChemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear, andincendiary Explosive devices (CBRNE) SurvivalSkills, by name, through ACES PR. All personnelmust bring protective mask (inspected and sized)with C2 canister, protective glove inserts,overboots, mask spectacle inserts, canteen (1quart) with M1 canteen cap, web belt, helmet,Airman’s Manual AFMAN 10-100, CBRNEAwareness CBT certification. Wear of contactsis prohibited in all classes. Anyone arriving late,without all required equipment, or wearingcontacts, will be released back to their unit andreported as a no-show. Classes will always beon Sunday at 0800 and noon. Students shouldmake every effort to show up 15 minutes prior tothe start of class. Walk-ins are not welcome. Anyquestions can be directed to your CBRNE UnitScheduler.

Drug Testing: You must report withintwo hours of notification.

OCCUPATIONAL SURVEYSThese surveys provide information essential for developing personnel programs,classifying occupations, and developing trainning programs. The Wing SurveyControl Monitor (SCM) works with the Unit Training Manager (UTM) to ensuresurveys are completed. AFI 36-2623, paragraph 2.7 makes completion of thesesurveys mandatory for all Air Force Reserve members. It is extremely important thesesurveys are completed by the suspense date. If you have any questions, contact Ms.Kim Silkwood at 734-7075 or your UTM.

Military PayFile for Receive Directpay by: Deposit by:

05 May 13 May07 May 15 May11 May 18 May14 May 22 May18 May 27 May19 May 29 May20 May 01 June

Military Pay (405) 734-5016

Newcomers Ancillary Training Phase I & II are conducted monthly in Bldg 1030, 507thMSG Conference Room. Unit/Ancillary Training Managers are responsible for ensuringtheir new personnel are scheduled to attend within 90 days of their first UTA. If you havequestions, contact the MPF Education & Training Office at 734-7075.Day Time Subject OPR

Saturday 1330-1415 Drug and Alcohol SGSaturday 1430-1500 Local Conditions/ORM SESaturday 1500-1530 OPSEC Training OGSunday 0800-0815 Base Populace CEXSunday 0815-0830 IG Briefing IGSunday 0830-1000 UCMJ/Ethics JASunday 1000-1030 Counter Intel/Awareness SFSunday 1030-1100 Human Relations EOSunday 1300-1600 First Duty Station EO

**New MPF Hours**Closed Thursday afternoon

Saturday UTAOpen at 0800 - 1500, except for fol-

lowing closures:1300-1330 - Employments/Reloca-

tions1400-1430 - Career Enhancements1500-1530 - Customer Service1500-1600 - IDs only

Sunday UTAOpen at 1130 - 1600

Contributing Editors: Tech. Sgt. Stacy Morton, Education and Training Advisor (ART) Tech. Sgt. Joy O’Boyle, Education and Training Advisor Staff Sgt. Elecia Shearer, Education and Training Advisor Ms. Kimberley Silkwood, Testing and Education Advisor (Civilian)

PAGE A4 MAY 2009“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”

On-final VFW

Service organizations are for all citizen AirmenBy Lt. Col. Steve Seaman513th Operations Support

Flight CommanderLike its’ fellow organization, the

American Legion, the Veterans of For-eign Wars, or VFW, is FOR veterans.The difference between the two issimple: any military member, past orpresent, can affiliate with the Legion.Any military member, past or present,that has fought a war on foreign soil, canaffiliate with the VFW (or even both or-ganizations).

The VFW can trace its lineage backas far as 1899, when veterans of theSpanish American War and the Philip-pine Insurrection formed organizationsto help wounded soldiers upon their re-turn to the U.S. from military duty. To-day, there are over 9,000 VFW postsworld-wide, with a membership boast-ing more than 2.5 million veterans. Theirmotto: “Honor the dead by helping theliving,” still rings true today.

In the late 1940’s, Mr. GeorgeEpperly donated the land which wouldbecome the future site of the new DelCity VFW. The original location was onTinker Diagonal. PFCBilly A. Krowse Post9969 was chartered onApril 29th, 1949, with aninaugural membership of30 veterans.

Mr. Melvin Taylor approached theVFW in 1960 with a land “swap” pro-posal, and the deal was consummatedon Aug. 30th, 1961. Within a year, thecurrent VFW building was completed atits’ VFW Drive location near Sunnylaneand I-40. Ten years later an addition tothe building was made, doubling its’ size– and finishing what has been ever since,the current “V.”

The largest membership for VFWPost 9969 was in 1971-72, with over1,500 active members. Today, the “V”has 469 members. Like its fellow frater-nal organizations, membership is slowly

dwindling. The young, modern militarymember has a difficult time understandinghow the VFW can benefit them.

When a current or prior military mem-ber joins, their membership is honoredat every VFW post world-wide. Ifthere’s a Post where you are TDY, de-ployed, or at on vacation, you are morethan welcomed there. Despite the agedifferences, many members find solacein being able to talk to other veteransabout experiences that only veterans canunderstand.

From WWII to the Global War onTerrorism, fellow members know thehardships and challenges service person-nel have faced or will face, and they’rethere to provide a valuable but laidbacksupport structure.

VFW membership automatically con-nects you with valuable professional andsocial networks. On any given day youmay find doctors, lawyers, law enforce-ment and business people at your localPost, to name a few.

You never know when your affilia-tion with the Post and fellow membersmay come in handy. The Post is also

there if you experience a tragedy or aseemingly hopeless situation.

The VFW offers several military as-sistance programs, to veterans andspouses alike. Post 9969 assisted in thesubmission of 396 disability claims sinceJuly 1st of last year, with a 98 percentsuccess rate. Surviving spouses alsohave a lot more benefits and optionsavailable to them as well.

They also sponsor three educationalprograms annually. The first is the Voiceof Democracy audio essay program forhigh school students. The grand prize isa $35,000 scholarship. Next is the Pa-triots Pen program, a written essay, and

middle school contest with $10,000awarded to the winner, and the Teacherof the Year awards to teachers in the K-5, 6-8 and 9-12 classes.

“We would love nothing more thanto increase our membership with theyounger troops,” said current VFWQuartermaster Gordon Wheeler, who isalso a two-time former Post 9969 Com-mander. “We enjoy seeing the 507th Okiesand the 513th Thumpers visit us duringUTA weekends. If we could get a surgeof membership from those outfits and thenew Air Guard units on Tinker, the newfolks could get involved, work their wayinto leadership positions, and truly send thisPost in the direction they would like to seeit go in the future.”

The Del City “V” sponsors unit UTAand non-UTA events, sporting event“watch” parties, occasional meals andthe annual Operation Holiday Spirit steaksupper. You don’t have to be a memberto stop in and see what it’s all about.

Currently, there are 17 veterans rec-ognized on the Del City Veterans Memo-rial, including one killed in World War II(who Post 9969 is named after), 14 killed

in Vietnam, one in OperationIraqi Freedom, and one re-cently in Operation EnduringFreedom. PFC Krowse waskilled in action and buried in

Belgium. Five years later, his remains weremoved, and he now is laid to rest in Spring-field, Missouri – his mothers’ childhoodhome. His mother, a charter member ofthe VFW Post 9969 Ladies Auxiliary, livedin Del City until her passing.

The annual membership fee is $30,and like the Legion, a lifetime member-ship is also available. And many mem-bers affiliate with both organizations.“Being a member as a young troop hasits advantages and rewards,” says cur-rent member, Chief Master Sgt. TinaLong, 507th Command Chief MasterSergeant. “It’s a club for military per-sonnel – past or present and future.”

MAY 2009 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority” PAGE 7

NEWS TO USE

HRDC hosts 1st Annual Reserve Enlisted workshopTinker Reserve Human Resource

Development Council will host its firstannual workshop titled “I am an Ameri-can Airman…What’s in it for me?” to helppromote member benefits awareness.

The 507th Air Refueling Wing’sHRDC will be conducting its first everTinker Reserve Enlisted Workshop from7 – 10:30 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 5, at theTinker Air Force Base Chapel building5701, located near the base theaterwhich shares the same parking lot. Justlook for the HRDC sign the day of theevent.

The workshop coordinator is SeniorMaster Sgt. David Liszeski, HRDC Se-nior Enlisted Co-Chair. The speakersselected will be from the Veterans Ad-ministration, the Air Force SergeantsAssociation, our very own Chaplain(Maj.) Dwight Magnus and a specialguest speaker who will be revealed in afollowing announcement. Space is ex-tremely limited and the workshop willonly be able to host 50 applicants. Break-fast finger foods will be provided.

Liszeski who is also the 507th Mis-

sion Support Group Career AssistanceAdvisor has stated the WIIFM workshopwill be the first of its kind on the Re-serve campus and is a must attend forthose members who are in there first orsecond enlistment or are not surewhether to reenlist or are eligible to re-tire and want to know more about thebenefits of staying in the Reserve.

The workshop will be sponsored bythe Tinker Reserve Top 3, OperationHoliday Spirit, The Tinker Reserve En-listed Advisory Council, The Air ForceSergeants Association, the MooreChamber of Commerce and private con-tributors. “The WIIFM workshop is athree and a half hour program. “It willbe an excellent event and I highly rec-ommend this workshop. The typicalmember who attends will improve theirunderstanding of the resources that areavailable to them and, may positivelyaffect their decision to stay in the mili-tary. Our workshop won’t be as in depthas a full blown , three day workshop, butwe will hit some of the highlights of edu-cation, recreational, travel, medical, re-

tirement, etc., and motivate people to lookdeeper into the benefits of military ser-vice,” Liszeski said.

Because of limited seating, theHRDC is requesting that people regis-ter early by getting in touch with yourFirst Sergeant, Senior ART or Unit/Group Career Assistance Advisor. TheHRDC point of contact for registrationand information regarding the WIIFMworkshop call Staff Sgt. Richard Shaw507th Services Flight, at 734-3676. “Wereally want people who aren’t familiarwith all the benefits associated with be-ing in the Air Force Reserves to knowmore. If you do have questions regard-ing education benefits, how to save bigbucks on vacation and travel, retirementplanning or whatever, please register toattend the WIIFM workshop in Septem-ber. You will not go away disappointedor empty handed. Help be a positivementor and tell someone about the work-shop today.” concluded Liszeski.

For more information or to register,please call the Public Affairs office at734-3078 on Saturday of the May UTA.

Capt. Michael WellsCompany Grade Officer of the Quarter

Newly commissioned 2nd Lt. Zach Anderson (formerly Senior Airmanfrom the Public Affairs Office) receives his pin-on from his fiancee(and now wife) Renee and his Mother on April 14th.

On-final KUDOS

PAGE 8 MAY 2009“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”

by Staff Sgt. Celena WilsonAir Force Reserve Command Public Affairs

ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. — Air Force Re-serve Command honored its top Airmen for 2008 in a cer-emony April 1 in Atlanta.

The command selected four reservists to represent it inthe Air Force’s 12 Outstanding Airmen and First Sergeant ofthe Year competitions. They now compete against Airmenfrom other major commands and agencies.

Seventeen Airmen vied for the command honors. Theyincluded unit reservists, individual mobilization augmentees andRegular Air Force Airmen. Four Airmen competed in the air-man category, five in the NCO category, five in the seniorNCO category and three in the first sergeant category.

AIRMAN: Senior Airman Channel H. Bolton-Scholl is anaircraft maintenance specialist with the 446th MaintenanceSquadron at McChord Air Force Base, Wash. The Eugene,Ore., native joined the Air Force Reserve in March 2005. Sheis currently a crew chief performing Home Station Checkinspections on the C-17A Globemaster III.

She volunteered to deploy to Christchurch, New Zealand,to support Operation Deep Freeze missions in January 2008.As the flying crew chief, she assisted aero-medical people insetting up litter stanchions to transfer critically injured Na-tional Science Foundation people from Antarctica to NewZealand.

Airman Bolton-Scholl attends Willamette University inSalem, Ore., where she is pursuing a degree in business ad-ministration.

NCO: Tech. Sgt. Phillip M. Balson is a network infra-structure craftsman in the 35th Combat CommunicationsSquadron at Tinker AFB, Okla. This traditional reservist is anative of Oklahoma City, Okla., and joined the Air Force Re-serve in 2003.

Sergeant Balson has taken part in every unit exercise andvolunteered for two deployments to Southwest Asia in 2005and 2008. During one deployment, he volunteered 25 hours inthe Air Force theater hospital. He also played a key role inplanning and putting on the expeditionary communicationssquadron’s combat dining-in.”

In 2007 he received an associate’s degree in electronicsystem technology from the Community College of the Air Force.He plans to earn a bachelor’s degree in business management.

SENIOR NCO: Senior Master Sgt. Gregory D. Taylor isa flight chief in the 908th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron atMaxwell AFB, Ala. The Decatur, Ala., native spent four yearsin the Regular Air Force before joining the Air Force Reserve

in 1992. In civilianlife, he is an elec-tronics technicianwith SCI Systems,where he hasworked since leav-ing active duty.

He has volun-teered to serve asa primary crewchief on severalAir ExpeditionaryForce deploy-ments supportingOperations JointForge, Iraqi Free-dom, EnduringFreedom and JointTask Force Hornof Africa. He re-cently became the908th AMXS su-perintendent.

In 2008, hecompleted his CCAF associate’s degree in aircraft mainte-nance technology. He is enrolled at Columbia Southern Uni-versity, working toward a bachelor of science degree in man-agement and maintaining a 4.0 grade point average.

FIRST SERGEANT: Senior Master Sgt. James Felton Jr.serves in the 445th AMXS at Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio.

He enlisted in the Regular Army after graduating fromMessick High School in Memphis, Tenn., in 1981, and thentransferred to the Ohio Army National Guard in 1984.

After a six-year break in service, Sergeant Felton joinedthe Air Force Reserve in 1997. He is a business leader whohas created several small businesses and founded a non-profitorganization, which supports inner-city youths.

In 2006, Sergeant Felton became the first sergeant of the445th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron. Two years later the445th Airlift Wing’s command chief master sergeant selectedhim to be the 445th AMXS first sergeant.

As an active member of the Wright-Patterson AFB FirstSergeant and Top Three Council, Sergeant Felton participatesin fundraising drives for a variety charities and good causes.

He holds a bachelor’s degree in organizational manage-ment and dual master degrees in leadership and finance. Healso teaches business and finance at the collegiate level. (AirForce Reserve Command News Service)

Tech Sgt. Phillip BalsonNCO of the Year

Air Force Reserve selects top enlisted Airmen

KUDOS

MAY 2009 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority” PAGE 9

2nd Quarter award winners announcedMaster Sgt. Justin Hopkins, an inflight

refueling technician with the 465th AirRefueling Squadron, was named theSenior NCO of the Quarter.

Hopkins considers mission first. Hevolunteered to fill an active duty AEFshortfall and deployed to Qatar for 60days. He is combat proven; flew 120-plus combat hours and off-loaded800,000-plus pounds of fuel, which keptCoalition Air Forces aircraft in the fight.

Hopkins is the only Ops Group boomoperator that is fully mission qualified onboth KC-135 Multi Point RefuelingSquadron and T model aircraft, whichexpanded mission effectiveness. Dur-ing this quarter he enrolled in Course 12and is two-thirds complete. He also com-pleted three aircraft upgrade qualifica-tions which enhanced his leadership andtechnical skills.

Hopkins coaches a youth soccerteam, volunteers to work Operation Holi-day Spirit and with the Oklahoma CityMemorial Marathon and works with hislocal church.

NCO of the Quarter is Staff Sgt.Ricky Buettner, a security forces jour-

neyman with the 507th Security ForcesSquadron.

Buettner was one of two out of 643eligible Airmen rewarded and allowed toattend NCOLDC course in Hawaii. Heperformed labor-intensive preventativemaintenance on 40 sets of night vision

goggles back from Iraq which preserved$180,000 in assets.

He streamlined squadron commutertravel order processes and developedstandard operating procedures. Thisslashed the return rate and boosted re-tention. He identified the need to updatea classroom servicing 1,000 per year andrewired the entire audio/visual network,saving $500.

Buettner demonstrated his base prideby forming an Airman’s working groupto pursue a base beautification project.They picked up and removed 20 bags oftrash. He coordinated with the base andwing to orchestrate a first-ever unitfundraiser bake sale, raising more than$300 for unit coins/morale projects.

Airman of the Quarter is Airman FirstClass Ryan Burkitt, an intelligence ap-prentice with the 507th Operations Group.

During this period, Burkitt attended

an innovative automated intelligence sys-tems course and trained eight intelligencetroops and transformed briefing prod-ucts. He volunteered for an intensiveSurvive, Evade, Resistance, Escapecourse and gained valuable mission plan-ning and EPA techniques to support ad-vanced aircrew intelligence training.

Burkitt was a staff assistance visitprep standout. He researched and com-piled 62 key intelligence documents andbuilt a robust classified library fromscratch.

Burkitt completed 30 hours of aRosetta Stone language program, study-

ing Arabic to advance his intelligencecapabilities. During this time he also com-pleted six hours toward a Bachelor’sdegree in Criminal Justice, earning a 4.0grade point average.

He’s a wing motivator for fitnessactivities and volunteered at the VAhome, providing members with compan-ionship and activities, true service beforeself ethic.

On-final TORNADO REMEMBERED

PAGE 10 MAY 2009“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”

Tinker Team rushes to assist tornado victimsteers began to set up food lines and more than 300 cots as busafter bus rolled up to the hangar doors bringing even moresurvivors of what will most likely become known as the worsttornado disaster in history. Their stunned faces were met withopen arms and warm kindness.

“We’ve tried to do everything we can to support the disas-ter relief efforts,” said Col. Mark Pillar, 507th Air RefuelingWing Vice Commander.

All across Tinker Air Force Base, military members rushedto help throughout the evening hours. Search and rescue teamsformed to search the rubble. Medical technicians reported toboth the base hospital, the base gym and to the 507th han-gar to provide care for those injured. At the 507th hangar,one of two set up on the base, a makeshift processing linewas formed to register people’s names so others couldknow their loved ones were still alive. Standing at the pe-rimeter of what once was Del City, only 100 feet awayfromthe base, twisted homes could be seen in the glare ofmilitary light-alls.

There, across the road where a thriving residential com-munity once stood, was nothing but splinters and rubble.The tornado, which had earlier been headed directly forTinker, swerved at the last minute, plowing its deadly waythrough the heavily populated area. The tornado skirtedthe perimeter of the base then thrust on northward throughMidwest City, immediately north of the base, again de-

stroying everything in its path. The fence that once stood,separating the base from the community lay flattened onthe ground, from the tornado’s blow.

The survivors’ stories were heart wrenching. “I lost every-thing.” “Thank God, my wife and children are alive.” Others

commented: “I was never so scared in my life.”By 3 a.m. most of the survivors had bedded

down in their cots to fitful sleep and the dread ofwhat awaits them in mornings light.

Two hundred and 20 victims affected by thetornado were housed in a hangar Monday night.By Tuesday night, however only 38 people re-mained. Several more were able to find alternatehousing during Wednesday. By Wednesday eveningless than 10 people were left.

On Wednesday, May 6, the victims displacedby the tornado were relocated from hangar to analternate relief shelter at Jardan Jr. High School,Midwest City, located at 5 McArthur Drive.

“Most of the people who had stayed with uswere able to make other arrangements with theirfamily or friends. “We helped those remaining withus on Tuesday to get back into the housing area totry to salvage some personal belongings,” said Col.John Fobian, acting commander of the 507th AirRefueling Wing.

Continued from Page 3

Col. John Fobian comforts his horse that wasinjured by the twister. The base stables werelocated on the northwest corner of the base andcompletely destroyed.

Families displaced by the tornado try to occupy their timewith card games while taking shelter in Hangar 1030.

COMMENTARY

MAY 2009 “Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority” PAGE 11

ously deploy. According to The Air Force Times, betweenSept. 1, 2001 and Sept. 30, 2006, 30 percent (420,800) of the1.4M DoD service members had served multiple tours. TheAF Times also reported that 42 percent of Airmen have hadmultiple tours, compared to 25 percent of the other services-but wait…the reason is the other services have longer de-ployments. Marines have been deploying for seven-monthtours and Soldiers for 15-month tours (recently changed to 12months) since OEF and OIF kicked off, and Sailors have al-ways sailed for six-12 month expeditionary tours (ship duty,mate!). But the Air Force is catching up. Although the stan-dard Air Force deployment is four months, 45 percent of allslots now are six months long, with many Commanders/Com-mand Chiefs/ Superintendents spending a year in the desert.

Reserve/Guard contributions. In March 2005, almost40 percent of OIF personnel came from the reserve com-ponents (Population Reference Bureau, March 2005). AGAO report (GAO-06-1068, Sep 2006) showed that morethan 531,000 reservists have been mobilized in support ofGWOT and 71 percent of those (378,000) deployed. Andthis number doesn’t count the tens of thousands from ev-ery service who voluntarily deployed on active duty. OneAF Times snapshot: on Sept. 30, 2006, 4,302 (17 percent)out of 24,833 total Airmen deployed were Guardsmen andreservists. Guard and reserve account for 29 percent ofAirmen who deployed from 2001. Every service has sub-stantially lent its reserve and Guard forces to our war onterror.

What point am I making? Reservists from all serviceshave served their fair share and more since 9/11. Whetherinvoluntarily or voluntarily serving, we might as well be con-sidered an “operational” vs “strategic” (waiting for the“big” one) force. Our skills are current and sharp. Today’suptempo is the only tempo many military personnel knowsince joining; for example, in the Air Force, the averageservice time for active duty military officers is 11 yearsand for enlisted, eight years. But Congress give us moremilitary personnel authorizations if the current deploymenttempo is expected to continue. Fancy, smart equipment,UAVs, and sensors help, but infantrymen throughout his-tory know one has to have sufficient (define that!) bootson ground to conquer and control territory for nation build-ing/shaping. That effort also takes Airmen launching air-craft and Coastguardsmen and Sailors patrolling seas.Troops are tired of short dwell times before deployingagain. That strain has affected retention because 55 per-cent of our DoD military is married and mama (or daddy) is

tired of saying good-bye to us and being left to raise kidsalone.

4. Battle rhythm. Establishing a battle rhythm is recom-mended because it allows you to schedule at least some ofyour day (the next point). For those lucky enough to be work-ing from a static location with force support amenities likeeducation, fitness and recreation centers, if you will identifywhat your personal and professional goals are at the begin-ning of a deployment and make time to accomplish them, youwill be pleased. Whether it’s physical fitness, spiritual growth,working in a new area of your AFSC/MOS, studying for in-creased rank or skill level, volunteering, saving money for abig ticket item, learning a language, taking college classes orlosing weight, set goals, try to fit them in your day and stickwith it. Stretch yourself.

5. Leaner “tooth to tail” ratio now than 20 years ago.During Operation DESERT SHIELD, many units deployed toSW Asia with as many weapons, munitions, mobility spareskits and equipment as they could take. Why? No one knewhow long the first Gulf crisis would last and there was littlefaith in one’s service supply system being able to sustain aunit forward deployed somewhere in Saudi Arabia’s hugedesert. Today, technology has given us good shipment track-ing ability with tools like Radio Frequency Identification Tags,the Air Force’s Standard Asset Tracking System, and the SingleMobility System. No need to order parts several times overbecause they might get lost in a supply system.

6. Priorities for leaders. Col. Max Mendoza, HQ AFRC/A7Z , identified three deployment priorities and advises lead-ers to apply them:

a) Quality of Mission. The right mission for the rightAirmen with tactics, techniques, and procedures that returnall Airmen back alive and well

b) Quality of Work. Give Airmen tools and resources thatallow the mission to be accomplished successfully

c) Quality of Life. A place to sleep, eat, unwind, and torenew body and spirit.

7. Optimism is contagious. And necessary.8. Forward deploying makes one feel relevant, needed.

You’re using your skills to spread freedom at a critical place.In CONUS, I work as a federal civilian at an Air LogisticsCenter, supporting the warfighter. Deployed, I am thewarfighter; if not at the tip of the spear, near it. Whether onedeploys to a CONUS or OCONUS location for 120, 179, 365days or more in a military or civilian capacity, we are neededto support our nation’s humanitarian, peacekeeping, anti-ter-rorism and other missions. Its important work and our nationneeds us. Remember-we are at war!

Continued from Page 2Reflections on an Air Force deployment

PAGE 12 MAY 2009“Readiness Is OUR Number One Priority”

Midwest City, OKMaster Sgt. Michael ComfortStaff Sgt. Adam Thomas(405) 733-7639Tech. Sgt. Marcel Jacques(405) 733-9403

Tinker AFB, OK(In-Service Recruiter)Tech. Sgt. Melissa Melichar (405) 739-2980

Tulsa, OKTech Sgt. BillJoseph(918) 250-3400

McConnell AFB, KSMaster Sgt. Stephan Kimbrough(In-Service Recruiter) (316) 759-3766Staff Sgt. Jason Sommers (316) 681-2522

Altus, OKMaster. Sgt.

Ronald Gregory(580) 481-5123

Moore, Norman, OKTech. Sgt.

Jackie Harris-Sanchez(405) 217-8311

Vance AFB, OKMaster Sgt. StephanKimbrough(316) 759-3766

507th ARW recruitersR-News

Tinker AFB, OK(Senior Recruiter)Senior Master Sgt.Michael Seals(405) 734-5331

http://get1now.us

Your Tinker Reserve Enlisted Advisory Council at workThe Enlisted Council members prepare to select the winning quarterly packages for the 2nd quarter of2009. The council meets monthly to talk about issues pertinent to the morale and welfare of our enlistedforce. You are highly encouraged to join the Council and have a voice within the campus. Meetings areheld each Sunday of the UTA at 9 a.m. in the 507th ARW Conference Room.Pa

rtin

g Sh

ot

VA welcomes veterans home with new Web site, blogThe Veterans Affairs Department has launched a new “Re-

turning Veterans” Web site to welcome home veterans of the Iraqand Afghanistan conflicts.

The Web site at http:// www.oefoif.va.gov focuses on the needsand questions of returning veterans, and will feature videos, vet-erans’ stories and a blog where veterans are encouraged to postfeedback. The site also will restructure the traditional index-of-benefits format found on other VA pages into question-based, cat-egorized and easily navigated links by topic. This will allow veter-ans to find benefits of interest easily and discover related benefitsas they explore, officials said.

Senior officer changesSenior officer changes in Air Force Reserve Command this

spring include the following:Maj. Gen. Martin M. Mazick (former 507th ARW commander)

from commander of 22nd Air Force, Dobbins Air Reserve Base,Ga., to vice commander of Air Force Reserve Command, RobinsAir Force Base, Ga., April 14.

Maj. Gen. James T. Rubeor from deputy to the chief of AirForce Reserve in the Pentagon to commander of 22nd Air Force,Dobbins ARB, April 3.

Brig. Gen. Howard N. Thompson from mobilization assistantto the Air Force chief of staff in the Pentagon to deputy to thechief of Air Force Reserve in the Pentagon in March.

Col. Richard W. Scobee from commander of the 944th FighterWing, Luke AFB, Ariz., to commander of the 301st FW, NavalAir Station Joint Reserve Base Fort Worth, Texas, April 5.

Col. Michael G. Popovich from vice commander to commanderof the 944th FW, Luke AFB, April 4.