A PUBLICATION OF THE 502nd AIR BASE WING – JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO

L A C K L A N D A I R F O R C E B A S E , T E X A S • w w w. l a c k l a n d . a f . m i l • V o l . 6 8 N o . 4 0 • O C T O B E R 8 , 2 0 1 0

INSIDECommentary 2

Recognition 6

What’s Happening 22

News & Features

Fully capable 12

Honoring heroes 14

EST tryouts 16

Biking to work 23

View the Talespinner onlineat www.lackland.af.mil

Photo by Alan BoedekerTech. Sgt. Nicholas Gorham demonstrates how to make sure a gun is cleared and safe during the National Night Out block party Tuesday at LionPark. Organized by the 802nd Security Forces Squadron, the crime and drug prevention event included children's activities, information booths,demonstrations and free food. Sergeant Gorham is with the 341st Training Squadron and a member of the Lackland Emergency Services Team.

Fifteen active-duty Airmen will begin an860-mile trek tomorrow in remembranceof 14 fallen special tactics Airmen killed inIraq and Afghanistan. Eleven days later,the 15 warrior Airmen will arrive atHurlburt Field, Fla.

Six teams will relay through five states,averaging 15-20 miles per leg. Each teamwill walk approximately 150 miles duringthe trek, carrying a 50-pound ruck sackand a commemorative baton engravedwith a fallen Airman’s name.

Event organizer Master Sgt. KennethHuhman said the team seeks to honor spe-

cial tactics Airmen who have fallen indefense of America. The walk is also anopportunity to educate the public about AirForce special operations careers like com-bat control and pararescue.

“This walk shows that members of ourAir Force special operations communityare never forgotten,” said SergeantHuhman.

Together, the 15 Airmen will begin theirwalk at the combat control selectioncourse on Lackland’s Training Annex atnoon. They will march through the baseand through Kelly Field before breaking

out into six relay teams. Five teams will advance to greet sup-

porters, assist in recruiting events, andrest while the sixth continues the march.The teams will take turns marching for thenext 860 miles and reunite in Florida,completing the final five miles as a team.

The Airmen will make their waythrough downtown San Antonio at about 4p.m., stopping briefly at the Alamo tohonor all servicemembers fallen through-out history, before heading east across

Airmen honor 14 fallen comrades

SAFETY FIRST

See HONOR P4

PAGE 3TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010TALESPINNERPAGE 2 OCTOBER 8, 2010

CARSWELL AVENUE CLOSURES

Sections of Carswell Avenue will beclosed through early December for instal-lation of new storm drain curb inletsassociated with construction of the newAirman Training Complexes.

The project for the new 16-foot deepinlets along the eastern edge of CarswellAvenue began last week. Approximately100 feet of the northbound right lane willbe closed on Carswell at these intersec-tions: Connally Avenue until Oct. 19;Kirtland Street, Oct. 20 to Nov. 16; andLuke Boulevard, Nov. 24 to Dec. 7.

For more information, call the 802ndCivil Engineer Squadron project managerat 671-4843.

BAND OF THE WEST AUDITIONS

The Air Force Band of the West isholding two auditions for an all volunteerholiday chorus at the Skylark CommunityCenter Fiesta Room. The auditions areOct. 21, 9 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m.

The chorus will perform at this year’sHoliday in Blue concert series, Dec. 12-14, at Trinity University.

All active-duty Airmen, members ofthe Air Force Reserve and Air NationalGuard, civilian employees, retirees andadult dependents are eligible to partici-pate.

For more information, call 627-5071.

SPECIAL DUTY BRIEFING

The Air Education and TrainingCommand Special Duty Team will host aspecial duty briefing Thursday, 7:30a.m., at the Bob Hope Theater.

The team will present informationabout becoming an Air Force recruiter,military training instructor, militarytraining leader, and professional militaryeducation instructor.

Eligible Airmen include airman firstclass with at least 24 months time inservice through the rank of technical ser-geant with less than 16 years total activefederal military service. Spouses ofpotential applicants are also invited.

For more information, contact MasterSgt. Timothy Godfrey at 671-1575 orMaster Sgt. William Jones at 292-4308.

NewsBRIEFS

COMMENTARY

Editorial staffBRIG. GEN. LEONARD PATRICK,502ND AIR BASE WING

COMMANDER

OSCAR BALLADARES,DIRECTOR, 502ND ABW OL-APUBLIC AFFAIRS

JOE BELA,CHIEF OF INTERNAL

COMMUNICATIONS, 671-4111

SHANNON CARABAJAL,MANAGING EDITOR, 671-1786

MIKE JOSEPH,STAFF WRITER, 671-4357

PATRICK DESMOND,SPORTS EDITOR/STAFF WRITER,671-5049

PAUL NOVAK,DESIGN/LAYOUT, 671-0478

Office:1701 Kenly Ave. Suite 102Lackland AFB, Texas78236-5103(210) 671-1786;(fax) 671-2022E-mail: talespinner@lackland.af.milCommander’s Action Line:actionline@lackland. af.mil.Straight Talk: 671-6397 (NEWS)For advertising information:Prime Time Military Newspapers2203 S. HackberrySan Antonio, Texas 78210(210) 534-8848(fax) 534-7134

This newspaper is published byPrime Time Military Newspapers, aprivate firm in no way connected withthe U.S. Air Force, under exclusivewritten contract with Lackland AFB,Texas. This commercial enterprise AirForce newspaper is an authorizedpublication for members of the U.S.military services. Contents of theTalespinner are not necessarily theofficial views of, or endorsed by, theU.S. government, the Department ofDefense, or the Department of the AirForce.

The appearance of advertising inthis publication, including inserts orsupplements, does not constituteendorsement by the Department ofDefense, the Department of the AirForce or Prime Time MilitaryNewspapers, of the products or servicesadvertised.

Everything advertised in thispublication shall be made available forpurchase, use or patronage withoutregard to race, color, religion, sex,national origin, age, marital status,physical handicap, political affiliation,or any other nonmerit factor of thepurchaser, user or patron.

Editorial content is edited,prepared and provided by the PublicAffairs Office of the 502nd Air BaseWing. All photos, unless otherwiseindicated, are U.S. Air Force photos.

Deadline for submissions isnoon Thursday the week prior topublication.

By Lt. Col. Jerry Kung342nd Training Squadron

On Saturday morning, 15Battlefield Airmen will set out on amulti-day, 860 mile rucksack marchfrom Lackland to Hurlburt Field, Fla.

It’s a long, grueling way to raiseawareness for Air Force SpecialOperations.

They’re doing this to honor thespecial tactics operators (parares-cuemen, combat controllers and spe-cial tactics officers) who have beenkilled in the line of duty during oper-ations in Iraq and Afghanistan.There are 14 of them, so far.

It could be three or it could be140. The number doesn’t truly mat-ter. What matters is acknowledgingthe sacrifice they made and the sac-rifice their families, friends, andloved ones continue to make everyday without them.

Helping with the grocery shop-ping, being there at their kids’ soc-cer games, and firing up the grill fora weekend get-together are all wayswe can help.

The Air Force loses out on theirleadership, cumulative experience,and teamwork. Without them, thereare fewer trainers to mentor thenext crop of Battlefield Airmen;fewer 7-levels to lead special tacticsteams, cycle into deployments, andalleviate some of the operationstempo burden; fewer officers to leadsquadrons and advocate for mis-sions, training, and funding.Everyone loses.

But we can salvage somethinghere. Every now and then, we’rereminded of the sacrifice whichdwarfs our own daily trials:Memorial Day; Lackland’s POW/MIAVigil Run; the death of another com-bat control brother lost inAfghanistan last week; the SpecialTactics Memorial March.

Those who have died have nothingleft to give but inspiration, so let’spay attention to that lesson.

What can we do to honor theirsacrifice?

We can think about the freedoms

we enjoy in this country, made possi-ble by our government, the defenseestablishment, and the coalitionforces that stand with us.

From everyone doing their part athome and abroad, risking their livesfor the mission and each otherdownrange, we live in comfort withmore freedom than many of us cangrasp.

We often overlook many thingsthat make our lives great includingdeciding which football team tocheer for; which church to attend, ifany at all; where to go for lunch;when to schedule a vacation.

About the honored dead: we arehere, they are not. It’s not meant tobe callous, but it is simple.

We can either live our livesunaware of the real sacrifices othershave made before us, the loss theirloved ones are forced to endure orwe can live our lives in full or near-

full appreciation that each day is agift.

You’ve probably heard variationsof this concept before; for example,expressed in fiction, an (old) Private1st Class James Francis Ryan askingto hear he’s led a good life. We’realive; let’s make it count.

So tomorrow, some hardy men willsuffer mile after mile rucksackmarching across five states in hom-age to their brothers. Some will dili-gently head to college classes for theweekend. Some, like me, will bemaking pancakes and horsingaround with our kids.

Whatever you choose to do,remember we owe our fallen militarymembers due gratitude andacknowledgment, and a debt to keeptrying every day to serve honorablyand drive on. Remember, we arehere, they are not, and so: live lifewell.

The fallen

Make their sacrifice count

Courtesy photoAirmen walk a stretch of road in Florida during the 2009 Walk for the Fallen. Thisyear’s walk begins Saturday and honors 14 fallen special tactics teammates killed inIraq and Afghanistan.

By Michael Donley & Gen. Norton SchwartzSecretary of the Air Force/Air Force Chief of Staff

The Air Force is engaged in a long-term effort to improve our Nation’s ener-gy security through energy efficiency andconservation.

We have made solid progress in theseareas over the past year, but our work isfar from done.

In order to meet our strategic energygoals, we must continue to instill energyefficiency and conservation into our dailyroutines within our aviation and ourinstallation communities.

October is the federal government’sEnergy Awareness Month; appropriatelytimed with the start of a new fiscal year.

This year’s Air Force theme is “A NewCulture: Energy as an OperationsEnabler.”

This theme highlights the ties betweenenergy and mission success by raising

awareness of the energy costs associatedwith our daily activities.

As such, we must continue to empha-size the pillars of the Air Force’s EnergyPlan: Reducing Demand, IncreasingSupply, and Changing Our Culture.

Achieving our energy goals requiressustained effort, a systematic approach,determined leadership, and a firm com-mitment from all of us to identify andimplement workable soIutions.

You are an integral part of this effort.Through commitment, innovation, team-work, and discipline, we will free upfunding for other Air Force priorities andenhance our energy security.

Thank you for all you do for our AirForce and for our Nation.

Leaders stress energy awareness

Michael Donley Gen. Norton Schwartz

By Jewell Hicks502nd Air Base Wing Safety Office

When Italian explorerChristopher Columbus imple-mented his plan to find a newroute to the Orient by sailingwest, he was confident thatonly about 2,400 miles ofocean separated the two con-tinents – a gross underestima-tion, as it turned out.

When he first landed in theBahamas on Oct. 12, 1492, hebelieved he had reached theEast Indies.

Despite these errors injudgment, Columbus is credit-ed with opening the NewWorld to European coloniza-tion, and the anniversary ofhis landing on the Bahamian

island of San Salvador is com-memorated not only in theUnited States but in Italy andmost of the Spanish-speakingnations of the world on thesecond Monday in October.

As we celebrate theanniversary of the discoveryof our great nation, manyfamilies will set out on theirown “voyages of discovery” asthey travel and enjoy thisextended weekend.

The increased activitiesalso come with an increasedexposure to risk.

Taking the time to planahead will help reduce risk.

Include the shorter hoursof daylight in your trip plan-ning.

If you walk or ride a bicycle

or motorcycle after dark,wear reflective clothing toalert others of your presenceand give drivers more time toreact. If driving, get plenty ofrest prior to travel and planadequate rest stops along theway.

According to the NationalHighway Traffic SafetyAdministration, distracteddriving is among the leadingcauses of auto accidents andit’s getting worse.

It may seem harmless totake your eyes off the road fora few seconds to send a text,or change the radio station,but those few seconds couldcost lives, and a lifetime ofangst.

Always keep both of your

hands on the steering wheeland your eyes on the road.

Supervisors and com-manders are encouraged todo as much face to face inter-action with their people aspossible to ensure they under-stand the importance of per-sonal accountability andresponsibility for safety onand off duty.

Also, look after each otherand understand the impor-tance of being good BattleBuddies and Wingmen. Livesmay depend on your actionsor decisions.

Please take the time toinclude risk management inall activities to ensure a safeweekend for you and yourfamily.

Officials encourage holiday safety plan

To submit an Action Line, e-mail theLackland Public Affairs Office at action-line@lackland.af.mil. For concerns regard-ing the Wilford Hall Medical Center, contactthe Wilford Hall Action Line at 292-4567,or e-mail your request to 59mdw.pa@lack-land.af.mil. For questions or issues aboutAir Force basic training, e-mail yourrequest to 37TRW.

PA.INBOX@lackland.af.mil.The Action Line is your direct path for

addressing issues if you have been unableto resolve them through your chain of com-mand or the appropriate responsibleagency. It also allows you to provide feed-back and recognize outstanding people andunits.

If you leave your name and telephone

number or e-mail address, you will receivea reply.

Your contact information allows us toobtain more information, if needed, to helpresolve your problem.

Items of general interest may be printedin the Lackland Talespinner.

Anonymous inquiries will not be pub-lished.

COMMANDER’S ACTION LINE

PAGE 3TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010TALESPINNERPAGE 2 OCTOBER 8, 2010

CARSWELL AVENUE CLOSURES

Sections of Carswell Avenue will beclosed through early December for instal-lation of new storm drain curb inletsassociated with construction of the newAirman Training Complexes.

The project for the new 16-foot deepinlets along the eastern edge of CarswellAvenue began last week. Approximately100 feet of the northbound right lane willbe closed on Carswell at these intersec-tions: Connally Avenue until Oct. 19;Kirtland Street, Oct. 20 to Nov. 16; andLuke Boulevard, Nov. 24 to Dec. 7.

For more information, call the 802ndCivil Engineer Squadron project managerat 671-4843.

BAND OF THE WEST AUDITIONS

The Air Force Band of the West isholding two auditions for an all volunteerholiday chorus at the Skylark CommunityCenter Fiesta Room. The auditions areOct. 21, 9 a.m. to noon and 1-4 p.m.

The chorus will perform at this year’sHoliday in Blue concert series, Dec. 12-14, at Trinity University.

All active-duty Airmen, members ofthe Air Force Reserve and Air NationalGuard, civilian employees, retirees andadult dependents are eligible to partici-pate.

For more information, call 627-5071.

SPECIAL DUTY BRIEFING

The Air Education and TrainingCommand Special Duty Team will host aspecial duty briefing Thursday, 7:30a.m., at the Bob Hope Theater.

The team will present informationabout becoming an Air Force recruiter,military training instructor, militarytraining leader, and professional militaryeducation instructor.

Eligible Airmen include airman firstclass with at least 24 months time inservice through the rank of technical ser-geant with less than 16 years total activefederal military service. Spouses ofpotential applicants are also invited.

For more information, contact MasterSgt. Timothy Godfrey at 671-1575 orMaster Sgt. William Jones at 292-4308.

NewsBRIEFS

COMMENTARY

Editorial staffBRIG. GEN. LEONARD PATRICK,502ND AIR BASE WING

COMMANDER

OSCAR BALLADARES,DIRECTOR, 502ND ABW OL-APUBLIC AFFAIRS

JOE BELA,CHIEF OF INTERNAL

COMMUNICATIONS, 671-4111

SHANNON CARABAJAL,MANAGING EDITOR, 671-1786

MIKE JOSEPH,STAFF WRITER, 671-4357

PATRICK DESMOND,SPORTS EDITOR/STAFF WRITER,671-5049

PAUL NOVAK,DESIGN/LAYOUT, 671-0478

Office:1701 Kenly Ave. Suite 102Lackland AFB, Texas78236-5103(210) 671-1786;(fax) 671-2022E-mail: talespinner@lackland.af.milCommander’s Action Line:actionline@lackland. af.mil.Straight Talk: 671-6397 (NEWS)For advertising information:Prime Time Military Newspapers2203 S. HackberrySan Antonio, Texas 78210(210) 534-8848(fax) 534-7134

This newspaper is published byPrime Time Military Newspapers, aprivate firm in no way connected withthe U.S. Air Force, under exclusivewritten contract with Lackland AFB,Texas. This commercial enterprise AirForce newspaper is an authorizedpublication for members of the U.S.military services. Contents of theTalespinner are not necessarily theofficial views of, or endorsed by, theU.S. government, the Department ofDefense, or the Department of the AirForce.

The appearance of advertising inthis publication, including inserts orsupplements, does not constituteendorsement by the Department ofDefense, the Department of the AirForce or Prime Time MilitaryNewspapers, of the products or servicesadvertised.

Everything advertised in thispublication shall be made available forpurchase, use or patronage withoutregard to race, color, religion, sex,national origin, age, marital status,physical handicap, political affiliation,or any other nonmerit factor of thepurchaser, user or patron.

Editorial content is edited,prepared and provided by the PublicAffairs Office of the 502nd Air BaseWing. All photos, unless otherwiseindicated, are U.S. Air Force photos.

Deadline for submissions isnoon Thursday the week prior topublication.

By Lt. Col. Jerry Kung342nd Training Squadron

On Saturday morning, 15Battlefield Airmen will set out on amulti-day, 860 mile rucksack marchfrom Lackland to Hurlburt Field, Fla.

It’s a long, grueling way to raiseawareness for Air Force SpecialOperations.

They’re doing this to honor thespecial tactics operators (parares-cuemen, combat controllers and spe-cial tactics officers) who have beenkilled in the line of duty during oper-ations in Iraq and Afghanistan.There are 14 of them, so far.

It could be three or it could be140. The number doesn’t truly mat-ter. What matters is acknowledgingthe sacrifice they made and the sac-rifice their families, friends, andloved ones continue to make everyday without them.

Helping with the grocery shop-ping, being there at their kids’ soc-cer games, and firing up the grill fora weekend get-together are all wayswe can help.

The Air Force loses out on theirleadership, cumulative experience,and teamwork. Without them, thereare fewer trainers to mentor thenext crop of Battlefield Airmen;fewer 7-levels to lead special tacticsteams, cycle into deployments, andalleviate some of the operationstempo burden; fewer officers to leadsquadrons and advocate for mis-sions, training, and funding.Everyone loses.

But we can salvage somethinghere. Every now and then, we’rereminded of the sacrifice whichdwarfs our own daily trials:Memorial Day; Lackland’s POW/MIAVigil Run; the death of another com-bat control brother lost inAfghanistan last week; the SpecialTactics Memorial March.

Those who have died have nothingleft to give but inspiration, so let’spay attention to that lesson.

What can we do to honor theirsacrifice?

We can think about the freedoms

we enjoy in this country, made possi-ble by our government, the defenseestablishment, and the coalitionforces that stand with us.

From everyone doing their part athome and abroad, risking their livesfor the mission and each otherdownrange, we live in comfort withmore freedom than many of us cangrasp.

We often overlook many thingsthat make our lives great includingdeciding which football team tocheer for; which church to attend, ifany at all; where to go for lunch;when to schedule a vacation.

About the honored dead: we arehere, they are not. It’s not meant tobe callous, but it is simple.

We can either live our livesunaware of the real sacrifices othershave made before us, the loss theirloved ones are forced to endure orwe can live our lives in full or near-

full appreciation that each day is agift.

You’ve probably heard variationsof this concept before; for example,expressed in fiction, an (old) Private1st Class James Francis Ryan askingto hear he’s led a good life. We’realive; let’s make it count.

So tomorrow, some hardy men willsuffer mile after mile rucksackmarching across five states in hom-age to their brothers. Some will dili-gently head to college classes for theweekend. Some, like me, will bemaking pancakes and horsingaround with our kids.

Whatever you choose to do,remember we owe our fallen militarymembers due gratitude andacknowledgment, and a debt to keeptrying every day to serve honorablyand drive on. Remember, we arehere, they are not, and so: live lifewell.

The fallen

Make their sacrifice count

Courtesy photoAirmen walk a stretch of road in Florida during the 2009 Walk for the Fallen. Thisyear’s walk begins Saturday and honors 14 fallen special tactics teammates killed inIraq and Afghanistan.

By Michael Donley & Gen. Norton SchwartzSecretary of the Air Force/Air Force Chief of Staff

The Air Force is engaged in a long-term effort to improve our Nation’s ener-gy security through energy efficiency andconservation.

We have made solid progress in theseareas over the past year, but our work isfar from done.

In order to meet our strategic energygoals, we must continue to instill energyefficiency and conservation into our dailyroutines within our aviation and ourinstallation communities.

October is the federal government’sEnergy Awareness Month; appropriatelytimed with the start of a new fiscal year.

This year’s Air Force theme is “A NewCulture: Energy as an OperationsEnabler.”

This theme highlights the ties betweenenergy and mission success by raising

awareness of the energy costs associatedwith our daily activities.

As such, we must continue to empha-size the pillars of the Air Force’s EnergyPlan: Reducing Demand, IncreasingSupply, and Changing Our Culture.

Achieving our energy goals requiressustained effort, a systematic approach,determined leadership, and a firm com-mitment from all of us to identify andimplement workable soIutions.

You are an integral part of this effort.Through commitment, innovation, team-work, and discipline, we will free upfunding for other Air Force priorities andenhance our energy security.

Thank you for all you do for our AirForce and for our Nation.

Leaders stress energy awareness

Michael Donley Gen. Norton Schwartz

By Jewell Hicks502nd Air Base Wing Safety Office

When Italian explorerChristopher Columbus imple-mented his plan to find a newroute to the Orient by sailingwest, he was confident thatonly about 2,400 miles ofocean separated the two con-tinents – a gross underestima-tion, as it turned out.

When he first landed in theBahamas on Oct. 12, 1492, hebelieved he had reached theEast Indies.

Despite these errors injudgment, Columbus is credit-ed with opening the NewWorld to European coloniza-tion, and the anniversary ofhis landing on the Bahamian

island of San Salvador is com-memorated not only in theUnited States but in Italy andmost of the Spanish-speakingnations of the world on thesecond Monday in October.

As we celebrate theanniversary of the discoveryof our great nation, manyfamilies will set out on theirown “voyages of discovery” asthey travel and enjoy thisextended weekend.

The increased activitiesalso come with an increasedexposure to risk.

Taking the time to planahead will help reduce risk.

Include the shorter hoursof daylight in your trip plan-ning.

If you walk or ride a bicycle

or motorcycle after dark,wear reflective clothing toalert others of your presenceand give drivers more time toreact. If driving, get plenty ofrest prior to travel and planadequate rest stops along theway.

According to the NationalHighway Traffic SafetyAdministration, distracteddriving is among the leadingcauses of auto accidents andit’s getting worse.

It may seem harmless totake your eyes off the road fora few seconds to send a text,or change the radio station,but those few seconds couldcost lives, and a lifetime ofangst.

Always keep both of your

hands on the steering wheeland your eyes on the road.

Supervisors and com-manders are encouraged todo as much face to face inter-action with their people aspossible to ensure they under-stand the importance of per-sonal accountability andresponsibility for safety onand off duty.

Also, look after each otherand understand the impor-tance of being good BattleBuddies and Wingmen. Livesmay depend on your actionsor decisions.

Please take the time toinclude risk management inall activities to ensure a safeweekend for you and yourfamily.

Officials encourage holiday safety plan

To submit an Action Line, e-mail theLackland Public Affairs Office at action-line@lackland.af.mil. For concerns regard-ing the Wilford Hall Medical Center, contactthe Wilford Hall Action Line at 292-4567,or e-mail your request to 59mdw.pa@lack-land.af.mil. For questions or issues aboutAir Force basic training, e-mail yourrequest to 37TRW.

PA.INBOX@lackland.af.mil.The Action Line is your direct path for

addressing issues if you have been unableto resolve them through your chain of com-mand or the appropriate responsibleagency. It also allows you to provide feed-back and recognize outstanding people andunits.

If you leave your name and telephone

number or e-mail address, you will receivea reply.

Your contact information allows us toobtain more information, if needed, to helpresolve your problem.

Items of general interest may be printedin the Lackland Talespinner.

Anonymous inquiries will not be pub-lished.

COMMANDER’S ACTION LINE

TALESPINNERPAGE 4 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 5TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

Louisiana, Mississippi, Alabama, final-ly arriving at Hurlburt Field Oct. 21 atabout 3 p.m.

Surviving family members of fallenAirmen and wounded Airmen willgather for the final five miles of thespecial tactics memorial march ending

at the Special Tactics TrainingSquadron on Hurlburt Field.

For more information on the route,team, and cause visit the Walk for theFallen website at www.wix.com/trifectaconsulting/specialtacticsmemorialmarch.

(Compiled by 502nd Air Base WingPublic Affairs Office)

HONOR from P1

October isDomesticViolence

AwarenessMonthSTOP THE V

IOLENCE

STOP THE VIOLEN

CE

TALESPINNERPAGE 6 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 7TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

BMT HONORSCongratulations to the fol-

lowing 54 Airmen for beingselected as honor graduatesamong 546 trainees graduat-ing today:

320th Training SquadronFlight 635Lee MassieDillon SchwertzFlight 636Joseph HembrookMatthew HoudeAlan KassoufDaniel MahoneyCasey Waters

321st Training SquadronFlight 639Patrick BuhayCody ChavezBenjamin DosseyGeorge Fileas

Christopher JonkerAndrew MyersMatthew PittsAdam SextonGregory ThorntonQuinn Williamson

322nd Training SquadronFlight 633Frederick LearyDavid MauneyJohn StricklandPhillip WebsterFlight 634Ashley AljetsAmanda ForshawStephanie HodgmanPrisilla Hughes

323rd Training SquadronFlight 629Cody BrowningChristopher Emmerich

Andrew GoenBrandon GormanJames HoytRandy JimenezJose MorenoBradly OrrEstevan PerezKraig StahlmanAllen TranerPaul WestonCollin WilsonFlight 630Chase CollinsJonatam Dos SantosAlexander LowThomas ProcterJames TienorAaron WhiteCodey Williams

326th Training SquadronFlight 637Wayne Chiasson

Johnathan GreeneJarad LovejoyFlight 638Sabrina BarnesBrittany EvertonBreanne GrothRegina Livingston

331st Training SquadronFlight 631Michael ConsidineFlight 632Christopher Smith

Top BMT AirmanCollin Wilson, 323rd TRS,Flight 629

Most Physically FitMale AirmenCody Kline, 322nd TRS, Flight633Nicholas Groomes-Warren,

322nd TRS, Flight 633Female AirmenAmanda Forshaw, 322ndTRS, Flight 634Sharie Fernandez, 322ndTRS, Flight 634Male Flights323rd TRS, Flight 629323rd TRS, Flight 630Female Flights321st TRS, Flight 640326th TRS, Flight 638

Top Academic Flights321st TRS, Flight 639320th TRS, Flight 636

A new vanpool service available to peopleworking on Lackland provides travel options forthose interested in saving money on daily com-muting routes that are not well suited for tradi-tional fixed-route bus service.

The VIA Vanpooling program is part of thelarger Department of Defense Mass TransitBenefit Program. There are currently more than110 active vanpools in San Antonio serving manyemployers including the military, border patroland the FBI.

The program saves participants time andmoney while relieving some of the headachesassociated with a daily commute.

“I am thrilled to participate in the VIA vanpoolprogram, said Theresa Reyes, Air Force ServicesAgency. “Vanpooling has allowed me to virtuallyeliminate my driving expense to work throughsavings on gas and maintenance. It (also) helpsmitigate the stress of traffic and provides numer-ous energy savings for our community. It is anawesome opportunity.”

Four or more people are needed to begin a newvanpool. Vans are provided by Enterprise Rent-A-

Car on a month-to-month basis and are availablein models that accommodate seven, 12 or 15 pas-sengers. For people who are not part of a largergroup, VIA offers a program to match them with acompatible van pool.

For most military and federal employees, thereis no cost for vanpooling. By using vouchers fromthe Mass Transit Benefit Program, all costs of thevan, maintenance, fuel and 24-hour roadsideassistance will be covered. Additionally, insuranceis provided through VIA Transit.

Participants in vanpools enjoy the benefit of ahassle-free commute to work while saving on fueland parking costs. In the event of an emergency

while at work, a Guaranteed Ride Home programis available to vanpoolers and provides vouchersfor local taxi services or use of the VIA bus serv-ice.

Before beginning, riders must register a profilewith VIA Vanpooling. Online vanpool registrationis available on VIA’s website at www.viainfo.net,and inquiries can be sent by e-mail tovanpool@viainfo.net.

For information about the program or monthlyreimbursement, contact Todd Deane, 671-1910;Master Sgt. Ruben Gonzales, 671-6151; or 2nd Lt.Gregory Brown, 671-2760.

(Courtesy 802nd Comptroller Squadron)

Vanpooling saves commuters time, money“Vanpooling has allowed me to virtually eliminate my driving expense

to work through savings on gas and maintenance. It (also) helpsmitigate the stress of traffic and provides numerous energy savings for

our community.”- Theresa Reyes

Air Force Services Agency

Capt. Adrian Rodriguez: 59thEmergency Medical SquadronDuty title: Clinical NurseTime in service: 3 yearsHometown: Augusta, GeorgiaEthnic group background:Puerto RicanDescribe your proudestmoment as a Hispanic dur-ing your career and why? Myproudest moment as aHispanic thus far, would be when Ideployed to Iraq. Hispanics have astrong military tradition in the defenseof the United States; and I am proudto be a part of that long-standing tra-dition.What do you admire most about the

Hispanics you have met inyour career? The dedicationand motivation to achieve andthe pride taken in everythingthey do.What family value(s) have youapplied most as an Airman tohelp you accomplish the AirForce mission? The family val-ues I’ve applied most toaccomplish the Air Force mis-

sion is responsibility and integrity. Asan Airman, I have the responsibility toothers, my unit, and myself to upholdthe Air Force core values and providemedical care to our armed forces’ sickand injured; treating them with digni-ty and respect.

Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight

Capt. AdrianRodriguez

Photo by Robbin CresswellAna Maria Hunter reads to children at the Lackland Child Development CenterSept. 29 in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. The reading is part of amonth-long celebration in honor of Hispanic heritage and culture. The monthconcludes Oct. 14 with an interfaith service at Freedom Chapel.

SHARING A STORY

Connect With Us!Follow us on Facebook at:http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Lackland-JBSA/114646985221400?ref=sgm

Follow us on Twitter at:http://twitter.com/Lackland_JBSA

E-mail us at:Lackland.jbsa@gmail.com

Or just go to our website at:www.lackland.af.miland look for social media.

Lackland JBSA has entered thesocial networking scene

TALESPINNERPAGE 6 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 7TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

BMT HONORSCongratulations to the fol-

lowing 54 Airmen for beingselected as honor graduatesamong 546 trainees graduat-ing today:

320th Training SquadronFlight 635Lee MassieDillon SchwertzFlight 636Joseph HembrookMatthew HoudeAlan KassoufDaniel MahoneyCasey Waters

321st Training SquadronFlight 639Patrick BuhayCody ChavezBenjamin DosseyGeorge Fileas

Christopher JonkerAndrew MyersMatthew PittsAdam SextonGregory ThorntonQuinn Williamson

322nd Training SquadronFlight 633Frederick LearyDavid MauneyJohn StricklandPhillip WebsterFlight 634Ashley AljetsAmanda ForshawStephanie HodgmanPrisilla Hughes

323rd Training SquadronFlight 629Cody BrowningChristopher Emmerich

Andrew GoenBrandon GormanJames HoytRandy JimenezJose MorenoBradly OrrEstevan PerezKraig StahlmanAllen TranerPaul WestonCollin WilsonFlight 630Chase CollinsJonatam Dos SantosAlexander LowThomas ProcterJames TienorAaron WhiteCodey Williams

326th Training SquadronFlight 637Wayne Chiasson

Johnathan GreeneJarad LovejoyFlight 638Sabrina BarnesBrittany EvertonBreanne GrothRegina Livingston

331st Training SquadronFlight 631Michael ConsidineFlight 632Christopher Smith

Top BMT AirmanCollin Wilson, 323rd TRS,Flight 629

Most Physically FitMale AirmenCody Kline, 322nd TRS, Flight633Nicholas Groomes-Warren,

322nd TRS, Flight 633Female AirmenAmanda Forshaw, 322ndTRS, Flight 634Sharie Fernandez, 322ndTRS, Flight 634Male Flights323rd TRS, Flight 629323rd TRS, Flight 630Female Flights321st TRS, Flight 640326th TRS, Flight 638

Top Academic Flights321st TRS, Flight 639320th TRS, Flight 636

A new vanpool service available to peopleworking on Lackland provides travel options forthose interested in saving money on daily com-muting routes that are not well suited for tradi-tional fixed-route bus service.

The VIA Vanpooling program is part of thelarger Department of Defense Mass TransitBenefit Program. There are currently more than110 active vanpools in San Antonio serving manyemployers including the military, border patroland the FBI.

The program saves participants time andmoney while relieving some of the headachesassociated with a daily commute.

“I am thrilled to participate in the VIA vanpoolprogram, said Theresa Reyes, Air Force ServicesAgency. “Vanpooling has allowed me to virtuallyeliminate my driving expense to work throughsavings on gas and maintenance. It (also) helpsmitigate the stress of traffic and provides numer-ous energy savings for our community. It is anawesome opportunity.”

Four or more people are needed to begin a newvanpool. Vans are provided by Enterprise Rent-A-

Car on a month-to-month basis and are availablein models that accommodate seven, 12 or 15 pas-sengers. For people who are not part of a largergroup, VIA offers a program to match them with acompatible van pool.

For most military and federal employees, thereis no cost for vanpooling. By using vouchers fromthe Mass Transit Benefit Program, all costs of thevan, maintenance, fuel and 24-hour roadsideassistance will be covered. Additionally, insuranceis provided through VIA Transit.

Participants in vanpools enjoy the benefit of ahassle-free commute to work while saving on fueland parking costs. In the event of an emergency

while at work, a Guaranteed Ride Home programis available to vanpoolers and provides vouchersfor local taxi services or use of the VIA bus serv-ice.

Before beginning, riders must register a profilewith VIA Vanpooling. Online vanpool registrationis available on VIA’s website at www.viainfo.net,and inquiries can be sent by e-mail tovanpool@viainfo.net.

For information about the program or monthlyreimbursement, contact Todd Deane, 671-1910;Master Sgt. Ruben Gonzales, 671-6151; or 2nd Lt.Gregory Brown, 671-2760.

(Courtesy 802nd Comptroller Squadron)

Vanpooling saves commuters time, money“Vanpooling has allowed me to virtually eliminate my driving expense

to work through savings on gas and maintenance. It (also) helpsmitigate the stress of traffic and provides numerous energy savings for

our community.”- Theresa Reyes

Air Force Services Agency

Capt. Adrian Rodriguez: 59thEmergency Medical SquadronDuty title: Clinical NurseTime in service: 3 yearsHometown: Augusta, GeorgiaEthnic group background:Puerto RicanDescribe your proudestmoment as a Hispanic dur-ing your career and why? Myproudest moment as aHispanic thus far, would be when Ideployed to Iraq. Hispanics have astrong military tradition in the defenseof the United States; and I am proudto be a part of that long-standing tra-dition.What do you admire most about the

Hispanics you have met inyour career? The dedicationand motivation to achieve andthe pride taken in everythingthey do.What family value(s) have youapplied most as an Airman tohelp you accomplish the AirForce mission? The family val-ues I’ve applied most toaccomplish the Air Force mis-

sion is responsibility and integrity. Asan Airman, I have the responsibility toothers, my unit, and myself to upholdthe Air Force core values and providemedical care to our armed forces’ sickand injured; treating them with digni-ty and respect.

Hispanic Heritage Month Spotlight

Capt. AdrianRodriguez

Photo by Robbin CresswellAna Maria Hunter reads to children at the Lackland Child Development CenterSept. 29 in celebration of Hispanic Heritage Month. The reading is part of amonth-long celebration in honor of Hispanic heritage and culture. The monthconcludes Oct. 14 with an interfaith service at Freedom Chapel.

SHARING A STORY

Connect With Us!Follow us on Facebook at:http://www.facebook.com/home.php?#!/pages/Lackland-JBSA/114646985221400?ref=sgm

Follow us on Twitter at:http://twitter.com/Lackland_JBSA

E-mail us at:Lackland.jbsa@gmail.com

Or just go to our website at:www.lackland.af.miland look for social media.

Lackland JBSA has entered thesocial networking scene

TALESPINNERPAGE 8 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 9TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

By Sharon AmannLackland Library

Future firefighters will get the realstory about fire safety Oct. 15 at 9a.m. when Lackland Fire InspectorRichard Campos teaches fire preven-tion during preschool story hour at theMain Library.

“This will be much more than aguest-reader story time,” said LenoreShapiro, director of the Lacklandlibraries. “In addition to stories,Inspector Campos will bring Sparkythe Fire Dog, who helps emphasizethe importance of preventing fires andplanning an escape route if a firestarts.”

Each child attending the programwill get a fire hat plus other goodiesand hand-outs on fire prevention.

After the presentation, InspectorCampos will show off one of severalred fire trucks Lackland firefightersuse to battle blazes. It will be parkedin the library parking lot.

“Seeing a real fire truck shouldthrill these kids,” Ms Shapiro added.“It’ll be a fantastic way to end theevent and who knows, this visit mayspark a life-long desire in a child tobecome a firefighter.”

Entrance to this before-library-hours program will be through theback door of the library. For moreinformation, call 671-3610.

Fire inspector turns storyteller

Photo by Alan BoedekerCpl. Kimberly Wailes, 717th Military Intelligence Battalion, uses the drunkendriving simulator Sept. 29 during the Save A Life Tour at Mitchell Hall as tourmanager Oscar Perry looks on. The simulator allows Airmen to experience intoxi-cation levels as they try to maneuver the vehicle while the computer decreasesthe responsiveness of the controls.

SAVING LIVES

Love your job in the Air Force?Want to share your personal experiences

in the military with others?The Lackland Speakers’ Bureau wants YOU!Call 671-5066 or 671-2908 for more details.

TALESPINNERPAGE 10 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 11TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

Registration is now open for the2011 Air Education and TrainingCommand Symposium, scheduled forJan. 20-21 at the Henry B. GonzalezConvention Center in San Antonio.

The two-day symposium will fea-ture more than 90 seminars on a vari-ety of education, training and innova-tion topics by experts from across theAir Force.

For Airmen interested in technolo-gy and industry demonstrations, theAlamo Chapter of the Air ForceAssociation will host an exposition inconjunction with the symposium.

James Sturch, AETC Symposiumevent director, said the presentationswill fall into five main categories:Recruiting, Leadership and Commun-ication; National and InternationalSecurity Issues; Operational Issues;Training Innovations; and EducationalInnovations.

“This year’s symposium promises tobe one of the best yet and we expectmore than 3,500 people to attend,”Mr. Sturch said.

The keynote speaker for the Jan. 20

luncheon will be Gen. Douglas Fraser,Commander, U.S. Southern Command.

The keynote speaker for the Jan. 21luncheon will be Chief Master Sgt.James Roy, Chief Master Sergeant ofthe Air Force. Both luncheons areincluded in the symposium registra-tion fee and open to all symposiumattendees.

The symposium culminates with theAETC Ball, which will celebrateAirmen throughout AETC who haveperformed heroic actions and willinclude a performance by the USAFSinging Sergeants.

Lt. Gen. (ret.) John Hopper, formerAETC vice commander, will emcee thesymposium and the ball.

Participants can decide which semi-nars and discussions they want toattend, tailoring their experience atthe symposium to their own profes-sional needs and interests.

To register for the 2011 AETCSymposium visit http://www.aetcsymposium.com.

(Courtesy Air Education andTraining Command Public Affairs)

Registration opens for AETC Symposium

TALESPINNERPAGE 12 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 13TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

PETERSON AIR FORCE BASE,Colo. – The commander of Air ForceSpace Command declared full opera-tional capability for 24th Air ForceOct. 1.

The criteria to reach FOC, estab-lished in Air Force Program ActionDirective PAD 07-08, required 24thAir Force, headquartered atLackland, to be able to perform allcomponent numbered Air Forceresponsibilities in support of combat-ant commanders for the Air Force’scyberspace mission.

It also required the organization beable to execute full organizationalstructure (24th Air Force with three

wings) of assigned forces.The final criterion was to satisfy a

major command commander-directedreadiness assessment, which was suc-cessfully completed Sept. 11, 2010.

“Declaration of FOC means 24thAir Force is now a full operationalpartner on the joint cyber team,” saidGen. C. Robert Kehler. “Cyberspace iscritical to today’s joint military opera-tions and 24th Air Force is proud tobe the Air Force’s component to U.S.Cyber Command.”

Twenty-fourth Air Force officialsaccomplished several major mile-stones prior to being declared FOC,including:

• Redesignation of the Air ForceInformation Operations Center as the688th Information Operations Wingand the realignment of both it and the67th Network Warfare Wing underthe 24th Air Force on Aug. 18, 2009.• Activation of the 689th CombatCommunications Wing at Robins AFB,Ga., on Oct. 5, 2009.• Relocation of the 624th OperationsCenter, formerly known as 608th AirForce Network Operations Center,from Barksdale AFB, La., toLackland.• A four-day, operational assessmentSept. 8 through 11, which concludedwith a briefing to the 24th Air Force

commander, Maj. Gen. RichardWebber, declaring the numbered AirForce was ready to be certified FOC.

“Gen. Kehler has declared us FOC,a great achievement with less than 14months of existence in a newwarfighting domain,” General Webbersaid.

“We’re proud of this significantmilestone and will continue to providecyberspace capabilities to defend theAir Force portion of the network,meet U.S. Strategic Commandrequirements when tasked, and sup-ply cyber-trained forces to combatantcommanders to enable joint opera-tions.”

24th AF achieves full operational capability

Contact Your CFC Unit RepresentativeFor More Information

Combined Federal Campaign Sept. 13 - Oct. 31100%

90%

80%

70%

60%

50%

40%

30%

20%

10%

By Mike JosephStaff Writer

There was no hesitation for themother of a fallen Security ForcesAirman when the invitation wasextended three months ago.

“I’m going,” she thought about thememorial run/walk and opening of anew exhibit at Lackland’s USAFSecurity Forces Museum Sept. 28. Theevents would honor the eight SecurityForces Airmen killed in conflict since2005.

“It was important to me because(Lackland) was a part of the begin-ning,” said Jackie Chavis. “I came to(my son’s basic military training)graduation, he did his time, and thenhe was gone.

“I knew I had to be here. It was inmy heart that I couldn’t miss this.”Mrs. Chavis’ 21-year-old son, Airman1st Class LeeBernard Chavis, 824thSecurity Forces Squadron, was killedOct. 14, 2006, while on duty as a tur-ret gunner with Iraqi police inBaghdad.

Family members of five of the eightfallen Security Forces Airmen were atthe museum for the ribbon cutting ofthe newest exhibit, “Into the 21stCentury.” The opening culminated afour-year project that began as anidea by Milita Rios-Samaniego, muse-um director/curator, to tell theSecurity Forces story of new andexpanded roles in Southwest Asia,Camp Bucca, Iraq, and overseas con-tingency operations.

In a show of support, more than1,100 Security Forces Airmen fromLackland and Randolph Air ForceBase lined the street in front of themuseum as Brig. Gen. JimmyMcMillian addressed the familiesbefore the ribbon cutting ceremony.

“We, the defenders that surroundyou, are grateful and humbled by yourpresence here,” said GeneralMcMillian, director of Security Forcesand deputy chief for Logistics,Installations and Mission Support,Headquarters U.S. Air Force,

Washington, D.C.“These brave Airmen stared dan-

ger in the face, protected theirdefenders and paid the ultimate sacri-fice for our country,” he said. “We willnever forget their selfless service. Weowe you and them a tremendous debtof gratitude. We’ll always think aboutwhat they contributed to us as anation and especially our careerfield.”

As the sun rose on the morning ofthe opening, Airmen and family mem-bers participated in a memorial 5Krun and mile walk. It offered theopportunity to reflect on the possibili-

ty of retracing a loved one’s footsteps.“The run was such an honor with

all of Security Forces out there,” Mrs.Chavis said. “My son was part of anawesome group of people from thebeginning. They’ve always beenthere.”

Michael Chavis, Airman Chavis’younger brother, felt a kindred spiritduring the run. He pushed himself tothe finish with the belief he had fol-lowed his brother’s footprint.

“As I saw (Airmen) go by, I keptgoing because they’re running for mybrother like I was running and walk-ing for him,” Mr. Chavis said. “I knew

he walked and ran on these samestreets. I felt connected.”

Family members saw for the firsttime the names of the fallen Airmenmemorialized on the wall in the muse-um’s Hall of Honor and on the mockF-16s used for training at theLackland Training Annex. A memorialservice and tour of the Security ForcesAcademy rounded out a full day.

“It is emotional,” Mrs. Chavis said.“It’s also an honor and a proud feel-ing. There’s sadness in my heart, butthe good memories of him and thehonor displayed to all the families out-weighs it.”

TALESPINNERPAGE 14 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 15TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

Remembering our heroes

SF Museum exhibit honors fallen Airmen

Photo by Robbin CresswellJackie Chavis looks at the new USAF Security Forces Museum exhibit honoring the eight Security Forces Airmen killed in conflict since2005. Mrs. Chavis’s son, Airman 1st Class LeeBernard Chavis, is among the Airmen honored by the exhibit, “Into the 21st Century.”Airman Chavis was killed Oct. 14, 2006, while on duty in Baghdad.

By Patrick DesmondStaff writer

What does it take to be the best?The newest members of Lackland’s

emergency services team found outSept. 24-25, enduring 36 hours of train-ing in a two-day tryout.

Only three out of 10 recruits com-pleted all the training events, includinga mile-run in a gas mask, six-mile runin full gear, written tests, a 9mm quali-fication, and a 1 a.m. recall, among oth-ers.

Dirty, sweaty, and tired, the lastrecruits standing attested to the ardu-ous process that had participants drop-ping out the first day.

After the final event – stress trainingat the Lackland Training Annex J-range– Staff Sgt. George Callaway, 802ndSecurity Forces Squadron, couldn’tcompare the physical test to anythinghe’s done before.

He was equally unsure which por-tion of the tryout was more demanding,saying the most challenging thing aboutit was “everything, every day.”

Senior Airman Nathan Wilson,802nd SFS, couldn’t single out an eventeither.

“The toughest thing wasn’t the men-tal aspect but the physical part,” hesaid. “Feels like I got hit by a truck.”

Senior Airman Nathan Lange, 59th

Emergency Medical Squadron, is famil-iar with the sensation.

“It’s a kick in the face,” the emer-gency medical technician said. “It’s agut check at every corner.”

And a surprise at every turn.While aspects of the tryout may

seem random on paper, EST memberStaff Sgt. Adam Navin, 343rd TrainingSquadron, said it tests capabilitiesneeded to join the team and candidatesraw potential.

Sequences such as sending candi-dates into a blacked out room or havingthem complete a written test and thenrun a mile, evaluate the ability torespond and natural instincts, the ser-geant said.

The reason it’s so tough, he added, isso individuals will learn to rely on eachother and EST leadership can seewhich candidates respond with a teammentality.

EST team officer in charge, 2nd Lt.Chad Hafermann, 802nd SFS, saidwanting to be a part of a team is essen-tial.

“To make it through the EST tryoutsthe candidates have to come togetheras a team,” the lieutenant said. “Team-work is the fuel that drives them to suc-cess.”

He added, “It takes a lot of couragejust to show up for a tryout like this.”

Airman Lange, who previously tried

out for EST in June, said theteam concept is what kept himcoming back.

“The values of the team res-onate with me,” he said, adding thereason it’s so tough is to “checkthat you’re here for the right rea-sons.”

The new members and the restof the EST continue to hone theirskills through monthly trainingon base and at civilian trainingcourses, such as BexarCounty’s course and AdvanceLaw Enforcement RapidResponse Training in SanMarcos.

The Air Force’s firstEST training coursestarted at Lackland inthe late 1970s andoffer training forthose tactical servic-es, Sergeant Navin said.

Since then, courses have sprung upon bases everywhere to meet thedemands of particular commanders,while Lackland’s unit has become anawarding-winning team, earning thetitle of Texas’ best SWAT unit againstcivilian units in 2007.

Tech. Sgt. Christopher Patten hasbeen the EST’s NCO in charge the pastfive years.

He said EST is a highly trained,specifically equipped and disciplinedunit that responds to high-risk sit-uations such as barricadedpersons, and possiblehostage or aircraft hijack-ing situations.

“The purpose ofLackland’s EST is tosave lives,” Sergeant Patten said,adding it’s also the units’ responsibilityto respond to emotionally disturbedpersons posing a threat and sniper inci-dents.

Lackland’s team primarily operateson base and have the ability to assistBexar County civilian law enforcement.

Potential EST members are on pro-

bation for one year, with the majority ofthe members coming from securityforces and other career fields such aspararescue, combat controller andmedical fields.

“It’s not just security forces,”Sergeant Navin said. “People want tojoin because they know it’s elite.”

Airmen try out for the Lackland Emergency Services Team Sept. 25. The two-day tryoutincluded a 1-mile run in a gas mask, a six-mile run in full gear, written tests and weaponqualification.

Lackland’s EST holds elite SWAT tryouts

Photos by Robbin CresswellSenior Airman Nathan Wilson, 802ndSecurity Forces Squadron, tries out forthe Lackland Emergency Services TeamSept. 25. The EST responds to high-riskincidents on base including hostagenegotiations and sniper operations.

By Mike JosephStaff Writer

There was no hesitation for themother of a fallen Security ForcesAirman when the invitation wasextended three months ago.

“I’m going,” she thought about thememorial run/walk and opening of anew exhibit at Lackland’s USAFSecurity Forces Museum Sept. 28. Theevents would honor the eight SecurityForces Airmen killed in conflict since2005.

“It was important to me because(Lackland) was a part of the begin-ning,” said Jackie Chavis. “I came to(my son’s basic military training)graduation, he did his time, and thenhe was gone.

“I knew I had to be here. It was inmy heart that I couldn’t miss this.”Mrs. Chavis’ 21-year-old son, Airman1st Class LeeBernard Chavis, 824thSecurity Forces Squadron, was killedOct. 14, 2006, while on duty as a tur-ret gunner with Iraqi police inBaghdad.

Family members of five of the eightfallen Security Forces Airmen were atthe museum for the ribbon cutting ofthe newest exhibit, “Into the 21stCentury.” The opening culminated afour-year project that began as anidea by Milita Rios-Samaniego, muse-um director/curator, to tell theSecurity Forces story of new andexpanded roles in Southwest Asia,Camp Bucca, Iraq, and overseas con-tingency operations.

In a show of support, more than1,100 Security Forces Airmen fromLackland and Randolph Air ForceBase lined the street in front of themuseum as Brig. Gen. JimmyMcMillian addressed the familiesbefore the ribbon cutting ceremony.

“We, the defenders that surroundyou, are grateful and humbled by yourpresence here,” said GeneralMcMillian, director of Security Forcesand deputy chief for Logistics,Installations and Mission Support,Headquarters U.S. Air Force,

Washington, D.C.“These brave Airmen stared dan-

ger in the face, protected theirdefenders and paid the ultimate sacri-fice for our country,” he said. “We willnever forget their selfless service. Weowe you and them a tremendous debtof gratitude. We’ll always think aboutwhat they contributed to us as anation and especially our careerfield.”

As the sun rose on the morning ofthe opening, Airmen and family mem-bers participated in a memorial 5Krun and mile walk. It offered theopportunity to reflect on the possibili-

ty of retracing a loved one’s footsteps.“The run was such an honor with

all of Security Forces out there,” Mrs.Chavis said. “My son was part of anawesome group of people from thebeginning. They’ve always beenthere.”

Michael Chavis, Airman Chavis’younger brother, felt a kindred spiritduring the run. He pushed himself tothe finish with the belief he had fol-lowed his brother’s footprint.

“As I saw (Airmen) go by, I keptgoing because they’re running for mybrother like I was running and walk-ing for him,” Mr. Chavis said. “I knew

he walked and ran on these samestreets. I felt connected.”

Family members saw for the firsttime the names of the fallen Airmenmemorialized on the wall in the muse-um’s Hall of Honor and on the mockF-16s used for training at theLackland Training Annex. A memorialservice and tour of the Security ForcesAcademy rounded out a full day.

“It is emotional,” Mrs. Chavis said.“It’s also an honor and a proud feel-ing. There’s sadness in my heart, butthe good memories of him and thehonor displayed to all the families out-weighs it.”

TALESPINNERPAGE 14 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 15TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

Remembering our heroes

SF Museum exhibit honors fallen Airmen

Photo by Robbin CresswellJackie Chavis looks at the new USAF Security Forces Museum exhibit honoring the eight Security Forces Airmen killed in conflict since2005. Mrs. Chavis’s son, Airman 1st Class LeeBernard Chavis, is among the Airmen honored by the exhibit, “Into the 21st Century.”Airman Chavis was killed Oct. 14, 2006, while on duty in Baghdad.

By Patrick DesmondStaff writer

What does it take to be the best?The newest members of Lackland’s

emergency services team found outSept. 24-25, enduring 36 hours of train-ing in a two-day tryout.

Only three out of 10 recruits com-pleted all the training events, includinga mile-run in a gas mask, six-mile runin full gear, written tests, a 9mm quali-fication, and a 1 a.m. recall, among oth-ers.

Dirty, sweaty, and tired, the lastrecruits standing attested to the ardu-ous process that had participants drop-ping out the first day.

After the final event – stress trainingat the Lackland Training Annex J-range– Staff Sgt. George Callaway, 802ndSecurity Forces Squadron, couldn’tcompare the physical test to anythinghe’s done before.

He was equally unsure which por-tion of the tryout was more demanding,saying the most challenging thing aboutit was “everything, every day.”

Senior Airman Nathan Wilson,802nd SFS, couldn’t single out an eventeither.

“The toughest thing wasn’t the men-tal aspect but the physical part,” hesaid. “Feels like I got hit by a truck.”

Senior Airman Nathan Lange, 59th

Emergency Medical Squadron, is famil-iar with the sensation.

“It’s a kick in the face,” the emer-gency medical technician said. “It’s agut check at every corner.”

And a surprise at every turn.While aspects of the tryout may

seem random on paper, EST memberStaff Sgt. Adam Navin, 343rd TrainingSquadron, said it tests capabilitiesneeded to join the team and candidatesraw potential.

Sequences such as sending candi-dates into a blacked out room or havingthem complete a written test and thenrun a mile, evaluate the ability torespond and natural instincts, the ser-geant said.

The reason it’s so tough, he added, isso individuals will learn to rely on eachother and EST leadership can seewhich candidates respond with a teammentality.

EST team officer in charge, 2nd Lt.Chad Hafermann, 802nd SFS, saidwanting to be a part of a team is essen-tial.

“To make it through the EST tryoutsthe candidates have to come togetheras a team,” the lieutenant said. “Team-work is the fuel that drives them to suc-cess.”

He added, “It takes a lot of couragejust to show up for a tryout like this.”

Airman Lange, who previously tried

out for EST in June, said theteam concept is what kept himcoming back.

“The values of the team res-onate with me,” he said, adding thereason it’s so tough is to “checkthat you’re here for the right rea-sons.”

The new members and the restof the EST continue to hone theirskills through monthly trainingon base and at civilian trainingcourses, such as BexarCounty’s course and AdvanceLaw Enforcement RapidResponse Training in SanMarcos.

The Air Force’s firstEST training coursestarted at Lackland inthe late 1970s andoffer training forthose tactical servic-es, Sergeant Navin said.

Since then, courses have sprung upon bases everywhere to meet thedemands of particular commanders,while Lackland’s unit has become anawarding-winning team, earning thetitle of Texas’ best SWAT unit againstcivilian units in 2007.

Tech. Sgt. Christopher Patten hasbeen the EST’s NCO in charge the pastfive years.

He said EST is a highly trained,specifically equipped and disciplinedunit that responds to high-risk sit-uations such as barricadedpersons, and possiblehostage or aircraft hijack-ing situations.

“The purpose ofLackland’s EST is tosave lives,” Sergeant Patten said,adding it’s also the units’ responsibilityto respond to emotionally disturbedpersons posing a threat and sniper inci-dents.

Lackland’s team primarily operateson base and have the ability to assistBexar County civilian law enforcement.

Potential EST members are on pro-

bation for one year, with the majority ofthe members coming from securityforces and other career fields such aspararescue, combat controller andmedical fields.

“It’s not just security forces,”Sergeant Navin said. “People want tojoin because they know it’s elite.”

Airmen try out for the Lackland Emergency Services Team Sept. 25. The two-day tryoutincluded a 1-mile run in a gas mask, a six-mile run in full gear, written tests and weaponqualification.

Lackland’s EST holds elite SWAT tryouts

Photos by Robbin CresswellSenior Airman Nathan Wilson, 802ndSecurity Forces Squadron, tries out forthe Lackland Emergency Services TeamSept. 25. The EST responds to high-riskincidents on base including hostagenegotiations and sniper operations.

TALESPINNERPAGE 16 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 17TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

By Staff Sgt. Robert Barnett59th Medical Wing Public Affairs

This year marks the 25th anniversary of the59th Medical Wing staff conducting Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation missions.

ECMO is a machine that provides cardiac andrespiratory support primarily to infants and chil-dren whose heart and lungs are so severely dis-eased or damaged that they can no longer servetheir function.

Wilford Hall Medical Center provides the onlylong distance ECMO transport option in the world.The ECMO mission here is also the only one in theDepartment of Defense and is the first ECMO cen-ter in Texas.

There have been 187 patients treated to date,with 76 requiring transport on ECMO. The num-ber of requests for transport on ECMO hasincreased in the past five years, with an averagetransport distance of over 1,000 miles.

While ECMO is primarily focused on infants andchildren, a new venture to provide ECMO for adulttrauma patients is underway.

“We performed a review of the Joint TheaterTrauma Registry for all the combat casualties andfound that there were a number of patients thathad very severe lung injuries that might have ben-efited from ECMO,” said Lt. Col. (Dr.) JeremyCannon, medical co-director of the surgical inten-sive care unit at Brooke Army Medical Center.

“We’re using that as motivation to expand ourexisting capability to now be able to take care ofadult patients with the same technology.

“My primary goal is to expand the capabilitiesof the current neonatal/pediatric ECMO programso that we can offer ECMO to combat casualtieswho are failing ventilator support,” added Dr.Cannon, who served at WHMC four years prior to

moving to his current position.“ECMO was initially done 30 years ago in adults

but it was not very successful; today we have bet-ter knowledge, improved skills and technology,”said Lt. Col. (Dr.) Susan Doltzer, ECMO director.

According to Heather Campbell, ECMO coordi-nator, the intent is to eventually offer adult ECMOservices at BAMC for trauma patients who maybenefit. “We also will be training some of theadult trauma physicians and staff in ECMO for a

new research protocol they will be implementingat BAMC,” said Ms. Campbell.

ECMO has come a long way over the years,according to Cheryl Collicott, senior ECMO coordi-nator.

“I entered ECMO on active duty in 1985 andwas on the first ECMO transport here,” Ms.Collicott said. “I was active duty 15 years and then

Air Force medical staff celebrates advances in ECMO

Courtesy photoAn Extra-Corporeal Membrane Oxygenation team loads a third-generation ECMO cart into an ambulance. The third-generation model is the most current model being used today, and is capable of serving adults.

See ECMO P20

TALESPINNERPAGE 18 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 19TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

By Wayne AmannAir Force ISR Agency Public Affairs

In the military operations arena, communica-tion is vital to survival.

That was the prevailing theme during a specialdisplay unveil ing at Air Force Intell igence,Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency head-quarters Sept. 23.

AF ISR Agency Commander, Maj. Gen. BradHeithold, along with members of the agency’s his-tory office, unveiled the first unclassified display ofits kind that pays tribute to Direct SupportOperators and the symbiotic relationship they’vehad with Special Operations Forces for nearly 20years.

DSOs are specially trained linguists with uniqueskills necessary to operate in a flying environment.

“It’s important to me we recognize that aspectof the mission set,” General Heithold said recallinghis enlisted days as a gunship crew member.”

Dedicated to DSOs past and present, the displaypays particular respect to Tech. Sgt. Glenn Lastesand Staff Sgt. Shane Kimmett, who both lost theirlives in the performance of their duties, and toMaster Sgt. Navid Garshasb, whose language skillsaved military and civilian lives in Afghanistan.

Sergeant Garshasb’s exploits are chronicled inthe book None Braver, U. S. Air Force Pararesue-men in the War on Terrorism. The book recountshow on Nov. 2, 2001, SOF forces were deployed tothe Afghan mountains on a medical evacuationmission.

Extreme weather forced their MH-53 Pave Lowhelicopter to make a crash landing in enemy terri-tory. The situation worsened when local villagersapproached the injured crew.

Sergeant Garshasb, the crew’s DSO, sustainedtwo fractured vertebrae and a fractured rib in the

crash. Despite his injuries and the onset ofhypothermia, he set down his weapon andengaged the villagers, not knowing if they werefriend or foe.

Using his mastery of the local language, he dif-fused the situation by telling the villagers theyfaced danger if they advanced on the crew andcrash site.

“I’m glad I was there to save Afghani villagers’l ives and give our Airmen peace of mind,”Sergeant Garshasb said.

For his actions, the Iranian-born NCO wasawarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, theMeritorious Service Medal and was the first non-rescue aviator to receive the Will iam H.Pitsenbarger Award for Heroism from the AirForce Sergeants Association. (The Pitsenbarger

Award is named for the only pararecueman to winthe Medal of Honor).

Medically retired in Florida, Sergeant Garshasb,“G” to the helo crew, appreciated the accolades,especially the Pitsenbarger Award.

“I felt very surprised and fortunate to be put infor and to receive such a prestigious award,” hesaid. “It was especially meaningful coming frommy fellow Air Force sergeants.”

Sergeant “G” is highly regarded in the DSO com-munity. Master Sgt. John Jones, Jr., a DSO evalua-tor, worked with him since 2000.

“Navid embodies what it means to be a DSO;confident, motivated, autonomous and a true sub-ject matter expert. That was evident thatNovember night (in Afghanistan),” Sergeant Jonessaid. “I use his example of skill and courage topush my Airmen. I’m fortunate to call him broth-er.”

The display was the idea of Air Force ISRAgency History Office Superintendent SeniorMaster Sgt. Benjamin Jones, who nurtured theproject from a concept late last year to fruition.

“Researching the relationship between SpecialOperations and the DSO to get the full story wasthe best part of the project,” Sergeant Jones said.“Once I put the green lighting in to give it the nightvision goggle look, it made the display pop. Thatmotivated me even more.”

Inside the display case is an aircrew helmet andother personnel equipment (including SergeantGarshasb’s nametag on a flight suit), shell casingsfrom a gunship, a model of an MH-53 Pave Lowhelicopter and more.

The display sits to the right of a photo mural ofpeople and platforms.

About being an integral part of the display, thehumbled Sergeant Garshasb said, “All DSOs meritthe honor.”

Historic display showcases dedication, heroism

Photo by William BelcherAir Force Intelligence, Surveillance and ReconnaissanceAgency Historian Harold Myers discusses the backgroundbehind the new direct support operator display unveiledSept. 23 in the agency's headquarters. The display highlightsthe working relationship between Special Operations Forcesand DSOs, specially trained linguists with unique skillsnecessary to function in a flying environment.

Fire Prevention Week was estab-lished to commemorate the GreatChicago Fire, the tragic 1871 confla-gration that killed more than 250 peo-ple, left 100,000 homeless, destroyedmore than 17,400 structures andburned more than 2,000 acres. Thefire began on Oct. 8, but continued intoand did most of its damage on Oct. 9,1871.

According to popular legend, the firebroke out after a cow, belonging toCatherine O’Leary, kicked over a lamp,setting first the barn, then the wholecity on fire.

Chances are you’ve heard some ver-sion of this story yourself; people havebeen blaming the Great Chicago Fireon the cow and Mrs. O’Leary, for morethan 130 years. But recent research byChicago historian Robert Cromie hashelped to debunk this version ofevents.

The ‘moo’ mythLike any good story, the ‘case of the

cow’ has some truth to it. The greatfire almost certainly started near the

barn where Mrs. O’Leary kept her fivemilking cows. But there is no proof thatMrs. O’Leary was in the barn when thefire broke out, or that a jumpy cowsparked the blaze. Mrs. O’Leary herselfswore that she’d been in bed early thatnight, and that the cows were alsotucked in for the evening.

But if a cow wasn’t to blame for thehuge fire, what was? Over the years,journalists and historians have offeredplenty of theories. Some blamed theblaze on a couple of neighborhood boyswho were near the barn sneaking ciga-rettes.

Others believed that a neighbor ofthe O’Leary’s may have started the fire.Some people have speculated that afiery meteorite may have fallen toearth, starting several fires that day –in Michigan and Wisconsin, as well asin Chicago.

The biggest blaze that weekWhile the Great Chicago Fire was

the best-known blaze to start duringthis fiery two-day stretch, it wasn’t thebiggest.

That distinction goes to the PeshtigoFire, the most devastating forest fire inAmerican history. The fire, which alsooccurred Oct. 8, 1871, roared throughNortheast Wisconsin, burning down 16towns, killing 1,152 people and scorch-ing 1.2 million acres before it ended.

Historical accounts of the fire saythat the blaze began when several rail-road workers clearing land for tracksunintentionally started a brush fire.

Before long, the fast-moving flameswere whipping through the area ‘like atornado,’ some survivors said. It wasthe small town of Peshtigo, Wis. thatsuffered the worst damage. Within anhour, the entire town had beendestroyed.

Eight decades of fire preventionThose who survived the Chicago and

Peshtigo fires never forgot what they’dbeen through; both blazes producedcountless tales of bravery and heroism.

But the fires also changed the waythat firefighters and public officialsthought about fire safety. On the 40thanniversary of the Great Chicago Fire,

the Fire Marshals Association of NorthAmerica (today known as theInternational Fire Marshals Associa-tion), decided the anniversary of theGreat Chicago Fire should henceforthbe observed not with festivities, but ina way that would keep the publicinformed about the importance of fireprevention. The commemoration grewincrementally official over the years.

In 1920, President Woodrow Wilsonissued the first National FirePrevention Day proclamation, andsince 1922, Fire Prevention Week hasbeen observed on the Sunday throughSaturday period in which Oct. 9 falls.

According to the National Archivesand Records Administration’s LibraryInformation Center, Fire PreventionWeek is the longest running publichealth and safety observance onrecord.

The President of the United Stateshas signed a proclamation proclaiminga national observance during thatweek every year since 1925.

(Courtesy NFPA and Lackland FireDepartment)

Fire prevention week: Commemorating a conflagration

TALESPINNERPAGE 18 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 19TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

By Wayne AmannAir Force ISR Agency Public Affairs

In the military operations arena, communica-tion is vital to survival.

That was the prevailing theme during a specialdisplay unveil ing at Air Force Intell igence,Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency head-quarters Sept. 23.

AF ISR Agency Commander, Maj. Gen. BradHeithold, along with members of the agency’s his-tory office, unveiled the first unclassified display ofits kind that pays tribute to Direct SupportOperators and the symbiotic relationship they’vehad with Special Operations Forces for nearly 20years.

DSOs are specially trained linguists with uniqueskills necessary to operate in a flying environment.

“It’s important to me we recognize that aspectof the mission set,” General Heithold said recallinghis enlisted days as a gunship crew member.”

Dedicated to DSOs past and present, the displaypays particular respect to Tech. Sgt. Glenn Lastesand Staff Sgt. Shane Kimmett, who both lost theirlives in the performance of their duties, and toMaster Sgt. Navid Garshasb, whose language skillsaved military and civilian lives in Afghanistan.

Sergeant Garshasb’s exploits are chronicled inthe book None Braver, U. S. Air Force Pararesue-men in the War on Terrorism. The book recountshow on Nov. 2, 2001, SOF forces were deployed tothe Afghan mountains on a medical evacuationmission.

Extreme weather forced their MH-53 Pave Lowhelicopter to make a crash landing in enemy terri-tory. The situation worsened when local villagersapproached the injured crew.

Sergeant Garshasb, the crew’s DSO, sustainedtwo fractured vertebrae and a fractured rib in the

crash. Despite his injuries and the onset ofhypothermia, he set down his weapon andengaged the villagers, not knowing if they werefriend or foe.

Using his mastery of the local language, he dif-fused the situation by telling the villagers theyfaced danger if they advanced on the crew andcrash site.

“I’m glad I was there to save Afghani villagers’l ives and give our Airmen peace of mind,”Sergeant Garshasb said.

For his actions, the Iranian-born NCO wasawarded the Bronze Star Medal with Valor, theMeritorious Service Medal and was the first non-rescue aviator to receive the Will iam H.Pitsenbarger Award for Heroism from the AirForce Sergeants Association. (The Pitsenbarger

Award is named for the only pararecueman to winthe Medal of Honor).

Medically retired in Florida, Sergeant Garshasb,“G” to the helo crew, appreciated the accolades,especially the Pitsenbarger Award.

“I felt very surprised and fortunate to be put infor and to receive such a prestigious award,” hesaid. “It was especially meaningful coming frommy fellow Air Force sergeants.”

Sergeant “G” is highly regarded in the DSO com-munity. Master Sgt. John Jones, Jr., a DSO evalua-tor, worked with him since 2000.

“Navid embodies what it means to be a DSO;confident, motivated, autonomous and a true sub-ject matter expert. That was evident thatNovember night (in Afghanistan),” Sergeant Jonessaid. “I use his example of skill and courage topush my Airmen. I’m fortunate to call him broth-er.”

The display was the idea of Air Force ISRAgency History Office Superintendent SeniorMaster Sgt. Benjamin Jones, who nurtured theproject from a concept late last year to fruition.

“Researching the relationship between SpecialOperations and the DSO to get the full story wasthe best part of the project,” Sergeant Jones said.“Once I put the green lighting in to give it the nightvision goggle look, it made the display pop. Thatmotivated me even more.”

Inside the display case is an aircrew helmet andother personnel equipment (including SergeantGarshasb’s nametag on a flight suit), shell casingsfrom a gunship, a model of an MH-53 Pave Lowhelicopter and more.

The display sits to the right of a photo mural ofpeople and platforms.

About being an integral part of the display, thehumbled Sergeant Garshasb said, “All DSOs meritthe honor.”

Historic display showcases dedication, heroism

Photo by William BelcherAir Force Intelligence, Surveillance and ReconnaissanceAgency Historian Harold Myers discusses the backgroundbehind the new direct support operator display unveiledSept. 23 in the agency's headquarters. The display highlightsthe working relationship between Special Operations Forcesand DSOs, specially trained linguists with unique skillsnecessary to function in a flying environment.

Fire Prevention Week was estab-lished to commemorate the GreatChicago Fire, the tragic 1871 confla-gration that killed more than 250 peo-ple, left 100,000 homeless, destroyedmore than 17,400 structures andburned more than 2,000 acres. Thefire began on Oct. 8, but continued intoand did most of its damage on Oct. 9,1871.

According to popular legend, the firebroke out after a cow, belonging toCatherine O’Leary, kicked over a lamp,setting first the barn, then the wholecity on fire.

Chances are you’ve heard some ver-sion of this story yourself; people havebeen blaming the Great Chicago Fireon the cow and Mrs. O’Leary, for morethan 130 years. But recent research byChicago historian Robert Cromie hashelped to debunk this version ofevents.

The ‘moo’ mythLike any good story, the ‘case of the

cow’ has some truth to it. The greatfire almost certainly started near the

barn where Mrs. O’Leary kept her fivemilking cows. But there is no proof thatMrs. O’Leary was in the barn when thefire broke out, or that a jumpy cowsparked the blaze. Mrs. O’Leary herselfswore that she’d been in bed early thatnight, and that the cows were alsotucked in for the evening.

But if a cow wasn’t to blame for thehuge fire, what was? Over the years,journalists and historians have offeredplenty of theories. Some blamed theblaze on a couple of neighborhood boyswho were near the barn sneaking ciga-rettes.

Others believed that a neighbor ofthe O’Leary’s may have started the fire.Some people have speculated that afiery meteorite may have fallen toearth, starting several fires that day –in Michigan and Wisconsin, as well asin Chicago.

The biggest blaze that weekWhile the Great Chicago Fire was

the best-known blaze to start duringthis fiery two-day stretch, it wasn’t thebiggest.

That distinction goes to the PeshtigoFire, the most devastating forest fire inAmerican history. The fire, which alsooccurred Oct. 8, 1871, roared throughNortheast Wisconsin, burning down 16towns, killing 1,152 people and scorch-ing 1.2 million acres before it ended.

Historical accounts of the fire saythat the blaze began when several rail-road workers clearing land for tracksunintentionally started a brush fire.

Before long, the fast-moving flameswere whipping through the area ‘like atornado,’ some survivors said. It wasthe small town of Peshtigo, Wis. thatsuffered the worst damage. Within anhour, the entire town had beendestroyed.

Eight decades of fire preventionThose who survived the Chicago and

Peshtigo fires never forgot what they’dbeen through; both blazes producedcountless tales of bravery and heroism.

But the fires also changed the waythat firefighters and public officialsthought about fire safety. On the 40thanniversary of the Great Chicago Fire,

the Fire Marshals Association of NorthAmerica (today known as theInternational Fire Marshals Associa-tion), decided the anniversary of theGreat Chicago Fire should henceforthbe observed not with festivities, but ina way that would keep the publicinformed about the importance of fireprevention. The commemoration grewincrementally official over the years.

In 1920, President Woodrow Wilsonissued the first National FirePrevention Day proclamation, andsince 1922, Fire Prevention Week hasbeen observed on the Sunday throughSaturday period in which Oct. 9 falls.

According to the National Archivesand Records Administration’s LibraryInformation Center, Fire PreventionWeek is the longest running publichealth and safety observance onrecord.

The President of the United Stateshas signed a proclamation proclaiminga national observance during thatweek every year since 1925.

(Courtesy NFPA and Lackland FireDepartment)

Fire prevention week: Commemorating a conflagration

TALESPINNERPAGE 20 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 21TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

COMMUNITY

ChristianCatholicMonday-Friday:Freedom ChapelMass, 11:30 a.m.

Wilford Hall ChapelMass, 11 a.m

Saturday:Freedom ChapelConfessions, 4:45 p.m.Mass, 5:30 p.m.

Sunday:Freedom ChapelReligious Education, 9a.m.Mass, 11 a.m.

Hope ChapelHispanic Mass, 9:15 a.m.

Wilford Hall ChapelMass, 3 p.m.

OrthodoxSunday:Airmen Memorial ChapelDivine Liturgy, 9:30 a.m.Religious Education,10:45 a.m.

ProtestantSunday:Airmen Memorial ChapelLiturgical Service, 8 a.m.

Hope ChapelSpanish Contemporary,12:45 p.m.Contemporary, 10:45 a.m.

Freedom ChapelContemporary Service,9:30 a.m.Gospel Service, 12:30p.m.Children’s ChurchprovidedReligious Education, 11a.m.Wednesday and

Thursday:Bible Study, 6 p.m.

Sunday:Medina ChapelContemporary Service, 9a.m.

Wilford Hall ChapelTraditional Service, 1:30 p.m.

IslamicFriday:Defense LanguageInstituteStudent CenterFaith Study, 1:30 p.m.Jummah Prayer, 1:30-2:30p.m.Sunday:Religious Education, 10:00a.m.-12:00 p.m.

JewishFriday:Airmen Memorial ChapelSabbath Eve Service,5:45 p.m.Religious Education, 4:30p.m.

Wicca1st Wednesday:Freedom ChapelRoom 8,San Antonio MilitaryOpen Circle,6:15 p.m.

For more information, contact the chapel staff:

Freedom Chapel • 671-4208Gateway Chapel • 671-2911

Hope Chapel • 671-2941WHMC Chapel • 292-7373

CHAPEL SERVICES KEY FAMILY SUPPORT RESOURCESAir Force Aid Society 671-3722Airman & Family Readiness Center 671-3722Airman’s Attic 671-1780Base Post Office 671-1058Bowling Center 671-2271DEERS 800-538-9552Family Child Care 671-3376Legal Office 671-3362Library 671-3610Medical Appointment Line 916-9900MPF ID Cards 671-6006Outdoor Recreation 925-5532TRICARE Info 800-444-5445Thrift Shop 671-3600

Lackland Enlisted Spouses’ Club www.lacklandesc.orgLackland Force Support Squadron www.lacklandfss.comLackland ISD www.lacklandisd.netLackland Officers’ Spouses’ Club www.lacklandosc.orgLackland Public website www.lackland.af.milMy Air Force Life www.MyAirForceLife.com

COMMISSARY HOLIDAY HOURS

The Lackland Commissary isopen from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondayfor Columbus Day.

THRIFT SHOP CLOSURE

The Lackland Thrift Shop isclosed Monday for Columbus Day.

For operating hours or moreinformation, call 671-3600 or visitwww.lacklandosc.org.

CASE LOT SALE AT COMMISSARY

The commissary is holding acase lot sale today and Saturday, 8a.m. to 8 p.m., each day.

FAMILY ADVOCACY SEEKS DONATIONS

In support of Domestic ViolenceAwareness Month, Family Advocacyis collecting travel-size toiletriesfor donation to the Battered Womenand Children’s Shelter of BexarCounty.

Donations can be dropped off atFamily Advocacy, 2200 Bergquist

Drive, Suite 1, or at the Airman andFamily Readiness Center.

For more information, call 292-5967.

AIR FORCE IUID BRIEFING

Air Force Item UniqueIdentification briefings areWednesday and Thursday for allLackland commanders and equip-ment custodians at the Inter-American Air Forces AcademyTraining Center, Bldg. 7356.

Nick Ludwig, Air Force projectmanager, will speak at the briefin-gs at 3 p.m. Wednesday and 8 a.m.Thursday.

For more information, call 671-3098 or 671-3803.

JUNIOR ENLISTED PICNIC

An appreciation picnic forLackland’s junior enlisted Airmen isOct. 15, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. atStillman Park.

The $1 admission price includes

food, games and door prizes. Raffletickets are also $1.

Contact your first sergeant fortickets.

ENLISTED SPOUSES’ CLUB

The Lackland Enlisted Spouses’Club meets for executive boardelections and a Halloween costumecontest on Oct. 19, 6:30 p.m., atthe Airman and Family ReadinessCenter.

Childcare is available for themeeting. E-mail children’s namesand ages to lacklandesc@yahoo.com.

For more information, visitwww.lacklandesc.org or contactCathy Guertin at (210) 694-0718.

LACKLAND CCR SCHEDULES MEETING

The Lackland CommunityCouncil on Restoration meets Oct.20, 7-8:30 p.m., at Valley-HiElementary School.

The Lackland CCR is an inde-

pendent, nonpartisan organizationthat provides recommendationsand advice regarding environmen-tal restoration issues to Lacklandleadership.

For more information, call 671-2907.

ASMC LUNCHEON SCHEDULED

The Alamo chapter of theAmerican Society of MilitaryComptrollers meets Oct. 21, 11a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Kendrick Clubat Randolph Air Force Base.

Jim Lee, president ofThinkrobatics, will speak on visualthinking.

Call 652-4408 by Oct. 19 forreservations.

OFFICERS’ SPOUSES’ CLUB

Members of the LacklandOfficers’ Spouses’ Club will attenda sneak preview of “Dead to theLast Drop,” an interactive murdermystery by the Lackland Performing

Arts Group on Oct. 26, 6 p.m., atArnold Hall Community Hall.

E-mail LOSC_reservations@yahoo.com or call 451-5175 forreservations by noon, Oct. 18.

Tickets are $15 per person.For more information, visit

www.lacklandosc.org.

SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICE MENTORS

The Lackland School LiaisonOffice needs adults to serve asmentors for students in elementary,middle and high school.

Mentors may participate in avariety of activities with students.

For information call 671-3722.

SSISD SURROGATE PARENTS PROGRAM

The South San AntonioIndependent School District needsadults to serve as surrogate parentadvocates for special educationstudents.

For information, call SSISDSpecial Education at 977-7000.

LocalBRIEFS

became a civilian em-ployee.

Because I alreadyhad the knowledge andskil ls , and because Iwas willing, I was thefirst civi l ian on anECMO transport atWHMC.”

There are more civil-

ians on transports now,she said.

“It was cool to seethe transformation ofECMO over the yearsfrom the very simplisticfirst generation littlegreen litter strapped toa cart, to our third gen-eration version with allthe advanced equip-ment.”

ECMO from P16

Voting for servicemembers,their families, and federal andoverseas citizens is easier nowthan ever before.

More than half the states postabsentee ballots online for mili-tary and overseas voters.Additionally, voters from all 55states and territories can use theFederal Voting AssistanceProgram online federal write-inabsentee ballot automated assis-tant to vote for at least all federalcandidates.

In 2009, President Obamasigned the Military and OverseasVoters Empowerment Act intolaw.

The act requires all states toprovide blank absentee ballots inat least one electronic format – e-mail, an online ballot delivery sys-tem or fax – at least 45 daysbefore an election.

To jump-start the electronicvoting support process for militaryand overseas voters, the FVAPoffered the federally fundedElectronic Voting Support Wizard.This system develops state-designed and operated absenteeballot delivery websites, accessi-ble through www.fvap.gov, that

allow voters to mark theirprecinct-specific absentee ballots,and then print, sign and submit bythe methods allowed: mail, e-mail,fax or online delivery system.

The FVAP produced the onlineFederal Write-in Absentee Ballotautomated assistant which allowsvoters to access and mark anonline ballot for federal elections.

This is a back-up ballot if thevoter does not get their regularstate absentee ballot, where thevoter can select their candidatesonline, print the ballot with the

choices printed out on the ballot,sign the oath and return the ballotpackage by whatever means isallowed by the state.

The automated assistant pro-vides voters a complete federalballot specific by Congressionaldistrict with instructions to returnthe ballot to the election office.

For more information, visitwww.fvap.gov, contact your unitvoting assistance officer or e-maillackland.vote@us.af.mil.

(Courtesy 802nd MissionSupport Group Legal Office)

Electronic options move the vote

Stay up-to-date during specialevents and rough skies.

Call 671-NEWS

Lackland Conservation Corner

SAVE ENERGY!

It is a myth that turning a lighton and off uses more energy

than leaving it on.Remember to turn off the lights

when you leave a room.

TALESPINNERPAGE 20 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 21TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

COMMUNITY

ChristianCatholicMonday-Friday:Freedom ChapelMass, 11:30 a.m.

Wilford Hall ChapelMass, 11 a.m

Saturday:Freedom ChapelConfessions, 4:45 p.m.Mass, 5:30 p.m.

Sunday:Freedom ChapelReligious Education, 9a.m.Mass, 11 a.m.

Hope ChapelHispanic Mass, 9:15 a.m.

Wilford Hall ChapelMass, 3 p.m.

OrthodoxSunday:Airmen Memorial ChapelDivine Liturgy, 9:30 a.m.Religious Education,10:45 a.m.

ProtestantSunday:Airmen Memorial ChapelLiturgical Service, 8 a.m.

Hope ChapelSpanish Contemporary,12:45 p.m.Contemporary, 10:45 a.m.

Freedom ChapelContemporary Service,9:30 a.m.Gospel Service, 12:30p.m.Children’s ChurchprovidedReligious Education, 11a.m.Wednesday and

Thursday:Bible Study, 6 p.m.

Sunday:Medina ChapelContemporary Service, 9a.m.

Wilford Hall ChapelTraditional Service, 1:30 p.m.

IslamicFriday:Defense LanguageInstituteStudent CenterFaith Study, 1:30 p.m.Jummah Prayer, 1:30-2:30p.m.Sunday:Religious Education, 10:00a.m.-12:00 p.m.

JewishFriday:Airmen Memorial ChapelSabbath Eve Service,5:45 p.m.Religious Education, 4:30p.m.

Wicca1st Wednesday:Freedom ChapelRoom 8,San Antonio MilitaryOpen Circle,6:15 p.m.

For more information, contact the chapel staff:

Freedom Chapel • 671-4208Gateway Chapel • 671-2911

Hope Chapel • 671-2941WHMC Chapel • 292-7373

CHAPEL SERVICES KEY FAMILY SUPPORT RESOURCESAir Force Aid Society 671-3722Airman & Family Readiness Center 671-3722Airman’s Attic 671-1780Base Post Office 671-1058Bowling Center 671-2271DEERS 800-538-9552Family Child Care 671-3376Legal Office 671-3362Library 671-3610Medical Appointment Line 916-9900MPF ID Cards 671-6006Outdoor Recreation 925-5532TRICARE Info 800-444-5445Thrift Shop 671-3600

Lackland Enlisted Spouses’ Club www.lacklandesc.orgLackland Force Support Squadron www.lacklandfss.comLackland ISD www.lacklandisd.netLackland Officers’ Spouses’ Club www.lacklandosc.orgLackland Public website www.lackland.af.milMy Air Force Life www.MyAirForceLife.com

COMMISSARY HOLIDAY HOURS

The Lackland Commissary isopen from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Mondayfor Columbus Day.

THRIFT SHOP CLOSURE

The Lackland Thrift Shop isclosed Monday for Columbus Day.

For operating hours or moreinformation, call 671-3600 or visitwww.lacklandosc.org.

CASE LOT SALE AT COMMISSARY

The commissary is holding acase lot sale today and Saturday, 8a.m. to 8 p.m., each day.

FAMILY ADVOCACY SEEKS DONATIONS

In support of Domestic ViolenceAwareness Month, Family Advocacyis collecting travel-size toiletriesfor donation to the Battered Womenand Children’s Shelter of BexarCounty.

Donations can be dropped off atFamily Advocacy, 2200 Bergquist

Drive, Suite 1, or at the Airman andFamily Readiness Center.

For more information, call 292-5967.

AIR FORCE IUID BRIEFING

Air Force Item UniqueIdentification briefings areWednesday and Thursday for allLackland commanders and equip-ment custodians at the Inter-American Air Forces AcademyTraining Center, Bldg. 7356.

Nick Ludwig, Air Force projectmanager, will speak at the briefin-gs at 3 p.m. Wednesday and 8 a.m.Thursday.

For more information, call 671-3098 or 671-3803.

JUNIOR ENLISTED PICNIC

An appreciation picnic forLackland’s junior enlisted Airmen isOct. 15, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. atStillman Park.

The $1 admission price includes

food, games and door prizes. Raffletickets are also $1.

Contact your first sergeant fortickets.

ENLISTED SPOUSES’ CLUB

The Lackland Enlisted Spouses’Club meets for executive boardelections and a Halloween costumecontest on Oct. 19, 6:30 p.m., atthe Airman and Family ReadinessCenter.

Childcare is available for themeeting. E-mail children’s namesand ages to lacklandesc@yahoo.com.

For more information, visitwww.lacklandesc.org or contactCathy Guertin at (210) 694-0718.

LACKLAND CCR SCHEDULES MEETING

The Lackland CommunityCouncil on Restoration meets Oct.20, 7-8:30 p.m., at Valley-HiElementary School.

The Lackland CCR is an inde-

pendent, nonpartisan organizationthat provides recommendationsand advice regarding environmen-tal restoration issues to Lacklandleadership.

For more information, call 671-2907.

ASMC LUNCHEON SCHEDULED

The Alamo chapter of theAmerican Society of MilitaryComptrollers meets Oct. 21, 11a.m. to 1 p.m., in the Kendrick Clubat Randolph Air Force Base.

Jim Lee, president ofThinkrobatics, will speak on visualthinking.

Call 652-4408 by Oct. 19 forreservations.

OFFICERS’ SPOUSES’ CLUB

Members of the LacklandOfficers’ Spouses’ Club will attenda sneak preview of “Dead to theLast Drop,” an interactive murdermystery by the Lackland Performing

Arts Group on Oct. 26, 6 p.m., atArnold Hall Community Hall.

E-mail LOSC_reservations@yahoo.com or call 451-5175 forreservations by noon, Oct. 18.

Tickets are $15 per person.For more information, visit

www.lacklandosc.org.

SCHOOL LIAISON OFFICE MENTORS

The Lackland School LiaisonOffice needs adults to serve asmentors for students in elementary,middle and high school.

Mentors may participate in avariety of activities with students.

For information call 671-3722.

SSISD SURROGATE PARENTS PROGRAM

The South San AntonioIndependent School District needsadults to serve as surrogate parentadvocates for special educationstudents.

For information, call SSISDSpecial Education at 977-7000.

LocalBRIEFS

became a civilian em-ployee.

Because I alreadyhad the knowledge andskil ls , and because Iwas willing, I was thefirst civi l ian on anECMO transport atWHMC.”

There are more civil-

ians on transports now,she said.

“It was cool to seethe transformation ofECMO over the yearsfrom the very simplisticfirst generation littlegreen litter strapped toa cart, to our third gen-eration version with allthe advanced equip-ment.”

ECMO from P16

Voting for servicemembers,their families, and federal andoverseas citizens is easier nowthan ever before.

More than half the states postabsentee ballots online for mili-tary and overseas voters.Additionally, voters from all 55states and territories can use theFederal Voting AssistanceProgram online federal write-inabsentee ballot automated assis-tant to vote for at least all federalcandidates.

In 2009, President Obamasigned the Military and OverseasVoters Empowerment Act intolaw.

The act requires all states toprovide blank absentee ballots inat least one electronic format – e-mail, an online ballot delivery sys-tem or fax – at least 45 daysbefore an election.

To jump-start the electronicvoting support process for militaryand overseas voters, the FVAPoffered the federally fundedElectronic Voting Support Wizard.This system develops state-designed and operated absenteeballot delivery websites, accessi-ble through www.fvap.gov, that

allow voters to mark theirprecinct-specific absentee ballots,and then print, sign and submit bythe methods allowed: mail, e-mail,fax or online delivery system.

The FVAP produced the onlineFederal Write-in Absentee Ballotautomated assistant which allowsvoters to access and mark anonline ballot for federal elections.

This is a back-up ballot if thevoter does not get their regularstate absentee ballot, where thevoter can select their candidatesonline, print the ballot with the

choices printed out on the ballot,sign the oath and return the ballotpackage by whatever means isallowed by the state.

The automated assistant pro-vides voters a complete federalballot specific by Congressionaldistrict with instructions to returnthe ballot to the election office.

For more information, visitwww.fvap.gov, contact your unitvoting assistance officer or e-maillackland.vote@us.af.mil.

(Courtesy 802nd MissionSupport Group Legal Office)

Electronic options move the vote

Stay up-to-date during specialevents and rough skies.

Call 671-NEWS

Lackland Conservation Corner

SAVE ENERGY!

It is a myth that turning a lighton and off uses more energy

than leaving it on.Remember to turn off the lights

when you leave a room.

TALESPINNERPAGE 22 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 23TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

OCT. 12PRE-SEPARATION RETIREES CLASS

A mandatory counseling classfor pre-separation retirees isTuesday, 9-11 a.m., at the Airmanand Family Readiness Center, Bldg.1249.

Attendees will be briefed aboutbenefits and services.

For more information, call 671-3722.

DISABILITY TAP SEMINAR

A disability transition assis-tance program seminar is Tuesday,11 a.m. to noon, at the Airman andFamily Readiness Center, Bldg.1249.

The seminar is for separating orretiring personnel on vocationalrehabilitation and how it works.

For more information, call 671-3722.

PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL

Protestant Women of the Chapelmeets for Bible study Tuesday, 10a.m., at Freedom Chapel with chil-dren ministry during the meeting.

For more information, call 671-4208.

OCT. 13MILITARY JOB FAIR

The San Antonio MilitaryCommunity Job Fair is Wednesday,9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Live OakCivic Center, Interstate 35 Northand Pat Booker Road.

Local and national companiesfrom various career fields will be onsite.

SOCIAL SECURITY SEMINAR

A Society Security Administra-tion representative will address newprogram changes at a seminarWednesday, 10 a.m. to noon, at theAirman and Family ReadinessCenter, Bldg. 1249.

Discussion will center on howthe changes will affect an individ-ual. The SSA serves more than 90percent of working Americans.

For information, call 671-3722.

OCT. 14PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL

Protestant Women of the Chapelmeets for Bible study Thursday, 6p.m., at Freedom Chapel.

For more information, call 671-4208.

SPONSORSHIP TRAINING

Training for new sponsors alongwith annual updates for sponsorspreviously trained is Thursday, 8-9a.m., at the Airman and FamilyReadiness Center, Bldg. 1249.

For more information or sign up,call 671-3722.

OCT. 15FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT SEMINAR

A seminar on How to Apply for

Federal Employment is Oct. 15, 11a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Airman andFamily Readiness Center, Bldg.1249.

The class will teach partici-pants tools to enhance the job-hunting process. For more informa-tion, call 671-3610.

OCT. 18RETURN AND REUNION SEMINAR

A return and reunion seminar is

Oct. 18, 2:30-3:30 p.m., at theAirman and Family ReadinessCenter, Bldg. 1249.

The seminar is an informalforum about the stress families andindividuals experience during sepa-ration.

For more information, call 671-3722.

OCT. 19PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL

Protestant Women of the Chapelmeets for Bible study Oct. 19, 10a.m., at Freedom Chapel with chil-dren ministry during the meeting.

For more information, call 671-4208.

OCT. 19-21TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

A three-day transition assis-tance program for separating orretiring military personnel is Oct.19-21, 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day,at the Airman and Family ReadinessCenter, Bldg. 1249.

The program is presented by theDepartment of Labor and the TexasWorkforce Commission.

The program focuses on job

searches and related topics.For more information, call 671-

3722.

OCT. 20LPAG MEETING

Members of the LacklandPerforming Arts Group meet Oct. 20,6-7 p.m., at Arnold Hall CommunityCenter. “Expressions,” an openmicrophone forum, follows themeeting from 7-9 p.m.

For more information, call 671-2619 or 671-2352.

OCT. 21SPONSORSHIP TRAINING

Training for new sponsors alongwith annual updates for sponsorspreviously trained is Oct. 21, 8-9a.m., at the Airman and FamilyReadiness Center, Bldg. 1249.

For more information or sign up,call 671-3722.

PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL

Protestant Women of the Chapelmeets for Bible study Oct. 21, 6p.m., at Freedom Chapel.

For more information, call 671-4208.

MONTHLY MEETINGSENLISTED SPOUSES’ CLUB

The Lackland Enlisted Spouses’ Club meets every third Tuesday of themonth, 6:30 p.m., at the AFRC, Bldg. 1249. For more information, visit www.lack-landesc.org.

OFFICERS’ SPOUSES’ CLUB

The Lackland Officers’ Spouses’ Club meets every third Tuesday of themonth at the Kelly Club. For more information, visit www.lacklandosc.org.

MILITARY COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN

The Military Council of Catholic Women meet the first Friday of the month,10 a.m., at Freedom Chapel. For more information, call 671-4208.

What’s Happening Family Support Events

WWW.LACKLANDFSS.COM

By Patrick DesmondSports Editor

For most people, mornings fall into routine: wake-up, get ready for work, grab a bite of breakfast and acoffee to go, and then jump in the car.

Now, once they’re nice and caffeinated, it’s time toaccelerate and brake, squeeze through intersectionsand look for open lanes on the highway.

There is an alternative, of course – bicycling.While Airmen differ on the rationale for relying onhuman power over horsepower, one thing they canagree on, cycling to work provides a good breath offresh air.

Having biked a couple times weekly to work thepast five years to stay fit, Lt. Col. Kirk Peddicord saidit’s the personal time that keeps him pedaling.

“You’re in a better frame of mind,” the 433rdMaintenance Group commander said about his 21-mile trip to work. “You’re not racing down the high-way and you’re not tailgating.”

Larry Gallo began his three-times-a-week, 24-mile bike commute last April, training for the AirForce recruiting ride at the Register’s Annual GreatBicycle Ride Across Iowa.

He said the morning ride produces a behavioralchange opposite of road rage.

“You’re doing something that’s going to make youfeel better, and you going to treat others better as aresult,” the AFCT Texas team captain said.

But, it’s not like anyone can just hop on a bikeright?

Mileage, the Airmen say, is not really what holdspeople back. That’s something easily adjusted to,Peddicord said. Stepping outside the car and ridingnext to two-ton vehicles is different.

“It’s really kind of scary at first,” Peddicord said.Both Airmen agree it’s something you get used to,

with the first step being preparation.Peddicord averages just over an hour, winding

through side streets while avoiding access roads andhighways.

Gallo recommends mapping a route to workbeforehand and leaving a generous window of timeto get there.

Both ride a road/cycling bike, although Peddicordsaid it doesn’t really matter which bike to ride aslong as it’s well made and dependable.

“It will ride better, coast better and it will lastlonger,” he said.

A given to road tested cyclists, Gallo andPeddicord always take an extra tire tube, and a CO2cartridge and mini bike pump.

“You never know what’s going to happen” Gallosaid, adding one thing to expect is flat tires. “It’s kindof like camping – you have to be prepared.”

In addition to reflective gear for early rides, Galloalso stashes rain gear in a light backpack.

Most Airmen have access to locker rooms, whichalleviates awkward, sweaty situations at work.

To stay light as possible, Peddicord stores workclothes in his locker the day before.

More than a healthy way to get to work, comelunchtime, Gallo said he’s more inclined to skip thedrive through due to decreased mobility.

At the end of the day, commuting to work on abicycle is a commitment – a commitment to hop backon at 4:30 p.m.

But for people with busy schedules, it’s an oppor-tunity to mix exercise and burn off calories alongwith daily stress.

And, if you’re anything like Gallo, there’s a senseof accomplishment that comes with it.

“It’s the reason a lot of people do it,” he said. “Youknow if you don’t get back on, you won’t get home.

“It’s always a victory when you make yourself.”

SPORTS

HIGH SCHOOL LACROSSE

High school and middleschool students interested inplaying lacrosse can contactthe city’s district coordinator,Steve Cote, at 889-5997.

No experience required.

YOUTH BASKETBALL

Registration for Lackland’syouth center basketball atBldg. 8420 ends Oct. 21.

Girls, boys and coed divi-sions are open to 5- to 17-year-olds.

For details, call 671-1245.

upcoming

Coed W L

1. CPSD 2 02. FSS 1 03. AFISR 1 04. 93rd IS 1 15. Med Ops 1 16. 24th Air Force 0 27. 737th TRG 0 2

Division I W L

1. NIOC 5 02. 59th Dental 4 13. 737th TRG 4 14. 59th Med LRS 4 25. 543rd Spt Sq 3 26. 93rd IS 3 37. FSS 1 58. 59th Med Spt Sq 0 59. 341st TRS 0 5

Division II W L

1. 59th CSPG 3 02. AFISR 4 13. 559th MDG 3 13. ESC/ Det 2 3 14. 717th MI Bn 2 2 6. 35th IS 1 37. DLI 0 48. 37th TRSS 0 4

Division III W L

1. Security Forces 6 02. 802nd COMM 5 13. 802nd LRS 5 24. 433rd AW 3 25. 59th EMS 3 36. 688th IOW 3 3 7. 690th NSG 2 48. Radiology 1 5

scoreboardSOFTBALL

FOOTBALL

According to theAir Force TrafficSafety Program, AirForce Instruction 91-207 states all Airmenmust:

• wear a bicyclehelmet

• not wear head-phones while riding

• wear reflectiveouter garments whenriding during periodsof reduced visibility

• ride with the flow oftraffic and obey alltraffic signs andsignals

Also, bicycleheadlamps, rearlights and reflectorsmust meet state andlocal requirementsfor visibility duringreduced visibility.

For local cyclinglaws, go online tohttp://www.sanantonio.gov/sapd/BicycleLaws.htm.

Airmen switch gears on daily commuteCYCLING BY

THE AFI

rideMorning ride

Survival packExpect the unexpected. In addition to safety gear,

a cyclist may want to pack these items on their back:

For more tips on bicycle commuting, visit thecity government’s website at: http://www.sanantonio.gov/oep/safetyEd.asp

• bottled water• change of clothes• rain gear• C02 cartridge/ extra tire inner tube• compact first aid kit• change for a phone call• emergency replacement food

TALESPINNERPAGE 22 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 23TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

OCT. 12PRE-SEPARATION RETIREES CLASS

A mandatory counseling classfor pre-separation retirees isTuesday, 9-11 a.m., at the Airmanand Family Readiness Center, Bldg.1249.

Attendees will be briefed aboutbenefits and services.

For more information, call 671-3722.

DISABILITY TAP SEMINAR

A disability transition assis-tance program seminar is Tuesday,11 a.m. to noon, at the Airman andFamily Readiness Center, Bldg.1249.

The seminar is for separating orretiring personnel on vocationalrehabilitation and how it works.

For more information, call 671-3722.

PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL

Protestant Women of the Chapelmeets for Bible study Tuesday, 10a.m., at Freedom Chapel with chil-dren ministry during the meeting.

For more information, call 671-4208.

OCT. 13MILITARY JOB FAIR

The San Antonio MilitaryCommunity Job Fair is Wednesday,9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., at the Live OakCivic Center, Interstate 35 Northand Pat Booker Road.

Local and national companiesfrom various career fields will be onsite.

SOCIAL SECURITY SEMINAR

A Society Security Administra-tion representative will address newprogram changes at a seminarWednesday, 10 a.m. to noon, at theAirman and Family ReadinessCenter, Bldg. 1249.

Discussion will center on howthe changes will affect an individ-ual. The SSA serves more than 90percent of working Americans.

For information, call 671-3722.

OCT. 14PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL

Protestant Women of the Chapelmeets for Bible study Thursday, 6p.m., at Freedom Chapel.

For more information, call 671-4208.

SPONSORSHIP TRAINING

Training for new sponsors alongwith annual updates for sponsorspreviously trained is Thursday, 8-9a.m., at the Airman and FamilyReadiness Center, Bldg. 1249.

For more information or sign up,call 671-3722.

OCT. 15FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT SEMINAR

A seminar on How to Apply for

Federal Employment is Oct. 15, 11a.m. to 1 p.m., at the Airman andFamily Readiness Center, Bldg.1249.

The class will teach partici-pants tools to enhance the job-hunting process. For more informa-tion, call 671-3610.

OCT. 18RETURN AND REUNION SEMINAR

A return and reunion seminar is

Oct. 18, 2:30-3:30 p.m., at theAirman and Family ReadinessCenter, Bldg. 1249.

The seminar is an informalforum about the stress families andindividuals experience during sepa-ration.

For more information, call 671-3722.

OCT. 19PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL

Protestant Women of the Chapelmeets for Bible study Oct. 19, 10a.m., at Freedom Chapel with chil-dren ministry during the meeting.

For more information, call 671-4208.

OCT. 19-21TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM

A three-day transition assis-tance program for separating orretiring military personnel is Oct.19-21, 7:45 a.m. to 4 p.m. each day,at the Airman and Family ReadinessCenter, Bldg. 1249.

The program is presented by theDepartment of Labor and the TexasWorkforce Commission.

The program focuses on job

searches and related topics.For more information, call 671-

3722.

OCT. 20LPAG MEETING

Members of the LacklandPerforming Arts Group meet Oct. 20,6-7 p.m., at Arnold Hall CommunityCenter. “Expressions,” an openmicrophone forum, follows themeeting from 7-9 p.m.

For more information, call 671-2619 or 671-2352.

OCT. 21SPONSORSHIP TRAINING

Training for new sponsors alongwith annual updates for sponsorspreviously trained is Oct. 21, 8-9a.m., at the Airman and FamilyReadiness Center, Bldg. 1249.

For more information or sign up,call 671-3722.

PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL

Protestant Women of the Chapelmeets for Bible study Oct. 21, 6p.m., at Freedom Chapel.

For more information, call 671-4208.

MONTHLY MEETINGSENLISTED SPOUSES’ CLUB

The Lackland Enlisted Spouses’ Club meets every third Tuesday of themonth, 6:30 p.m., at the AFRC, Bldg. 1249. For more information, visit www.lack-landesc.org.

OFFICERS’ SPOUSES’ CLUB

The Lackland Officers’ Spouses’ Club meets every third Tuesday of themonth at the Kelly Club. For more information, visit www.lacklandosc.org.

MILITARY COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN

The Military Council of Catholic Women meet the first Friday of the month,10 a.m., at Freedom Chapel. For more information, call 671-4208.

What’s Happening Family Support Events

WWW.LACKLANDFSS.COM

By Patrick DesmondSports Editor

For most people, mornings fall into routine: wake-up, get ready for work, grab a bite of breakfast and acoffee to go, and then jump in the car.

Now, once they’re nice and caffeinated, it’s time toaccelerate and brake, squeeze through intersectionsand look for open lanes on the highway.

There is an alternative, of course – bicycling.While Airmen differ on the rationale for relying onhuman power over horsepower, one thing they canagree on, cycling to work provides a good breath offresh air.

Having biked a couple times weekly to work thepast five years to stay fit, Lt. Col. Kirk Peddicord saidit’s the personal time that keeps him pedaling.

“You’re in a better frame of mind,” the 433rdMaintenance Group commander said about his 21-mile trip to work. “You’re not racing down the high-way and you’re not tailgating.”

Larry Gallo began his three-times-a-week, 24-mile bike commute last April, training for the AirForce recruiting ride at the Register’s Annual GreatBicycle Ride Across Iowa.

He said the morning ride produces a behavioralchange opposite of road rage.

“You’re doing something that’s going to make youfeel better, and you going to treat others better as aresult,” the AFCT Texas team captain said.

But, it’s not like anyone can just hop on a bikeright?

Mileage, the Airmen say, is not really what holdspeople back. That’s something easily adjusted to,Peddicord said. Stepping outside the car and ridingnext to two-ton vehicles is different.

“It’s really kind of scary at first,” Peddicord said.Both Airmen agree it’s something you get used to,

with the first step being preparation.Peddicord averages just over an hour, winding

through side streets while avoiding access roads andhighways.

Gallo recommends mapping a route to workbeforehand and leaving a generous window of timeto get there.

Both ride a road/cycling bike, although Peddicordsaid it doesn’t really matter which bike to ride aslong as it’s well made and dependable.

“It will ride better, coast better and it will lastlonger,” he said.

A given to road tested cyclists, Gallo andPeddicord always take an extra tire tube, and a CO2cartridge and mini bike pump.

“You never know what’s going to happen” Gallosaid, adding one thing to expect is flat tires. “It’s kindof like camping – you have to be prepared.”

In addition to reflective gear for early rides, Galloalso stashes rain gear in a light backpack.

Most Airmen have access to locker rooms, whichalleviates awkward, sweaty situations at work.

To stay light as possible, Peddicord stores workclothes in his locker the day before.

More than a healthy way to get to work, comelunchtime, Gallo said he’s more inclined to skip thedrive through due to decreased mobility.

At the end of the day, commuting to work on abicycle is a commitment – a commitment to hop backon at 4:30 p.m.

But for people with busy schedules, it’s an oppor-tunity to mix exercise and burn off calories alongwith daily stress.

And, if you’re anything like Gallo, there’s a senseof accomplishment that comes with it.

“It’s the reason a lot of people do it,” he said. “Youknow if you don’t get back on, you won’t get home.

“It’s always a victory when you make yourself.”

SPORTS

HIGH SCHOOL LACROSSE

High school and middleschool students interested inplaying lacrosse can contactthe city’s district coordinator,Steve Cote, at 889-5997.

No experience required.

YOUTH BASKETBALL

Registration for Lackland’syouth center basketball atBldg. 8420 ends Oct. 21.

Girls, boys and coed divi-sions are open to 5- to 17-year-olds.

For details, call 671-1245.

upcoming

Coed W L

1. CPSD 2 02. FSS 1 03. AFISR 1 04. 93rd IS 1 15. Med Ops 1 16. 24th Air Force 0 27. 737th TRG 0 2

Division I W L

1. NIOC 5 02. 59th Dental 4 13. 737th TRG 4 14. 59th Med LRS 4 25. 543rd Spt Sq 3 26. 93rd IS 3 37. FSS 1 58. 59th Med Spt Sq 0 59. 341st TRS 0 5

Division II W L

1. 59th CSPG 3 02. AFISR 4 13. 559th MDG 3 13. ESC/ Det 2 3 14. 717th MI Bn 2 2 6. 35th IS 1 37. DLI 0 48. 37th TRSS 0 4

Division III W L

1. Security Forces 6 02. 802nd COMM 5 13. 802nd LRS 5 24. 433rd AW 3 25. 59th EMS 3 36. 688th IOW 3 3 7. 690th NSG 2 48. Radiology 1 5

scoreboardSOFTBALL

FOOTBALL

According to theAir Force TrafficSafety Program, AirForce Instruction 91-207 states all Airmenmust:

• wear a bicyclehelmet

• not wear head-phones while riding

• wear reflectiveouter garments whenriding during periodsof reduced visibility

• ride with the flow oftraffic and obey alltraffic signs andsignals

Also, bicycleheadlamps, rearlights and reflectorsmust meet state andlocal requirementsfor visibility duringreduced visibility.

For local cyclinglaws, go online tohttp://www.sanantonio.gov/sapd/BicycleLaws.htm.

Airmen switch gears on daily commuteCYCLING BY

THE AFI

rideMorning ride

Survival packExpect the unexpected. In addition to safety gear,

a cyclist may want to pack these items on their back:

For more tips on bicycle commuting, visit thecity government’s website at: http://www.sanantonio.gov/oep/safetyEd.asp

• bottled water• change of clothes• rain gear• C02 cartridge/ extra tire inner tube• compact first aid kit• change for a phone call• emergency replacement food

TALESPINNERPAGE 24 OCTOBER 8, 2010 PAGE 25TALESPINNEROCTOBER 8, 2010

Joe Bela502nd ABW/PA Last week: 5-3Season: 15-9

(.625)

Steve ReichertFitness & Sports Dir.

Last week: 6-2Season: 15-9

(.625)

Patrick DesmondTalespinner Sports

Last week: 4-4Season: 14-10

(.583)

PlusGridlocks

IndianapolisDetroit

BaltimoreNY GiantsGreen BayTennessee

San FranciscoNY Jets

IndianapolisSt. LouisBaltimoreHouston

WashingtonDallas

San FranciscoNY Jets

NFL – Week 5Kansas City at Indianapolis SundaySt. Louis at Detroit SundayDenver at Baltimore SundayNY Giants at Houston SundayGreen Bay at Washington SundayTennessee at Dallas SundayPhiladelphia at San Francisco SundayMinnesota at NY Jets Monday

John Seay

Kansas CitySt. LouisBaltimoreHouston

Green BayDallas

Philadelphia NY Jets

IndianapolisSt. LouisBaltimoreHouston

Green BayDallas

San FranciscoNY Jets

IndianapolisSt. LouisBaltimoreNY GiantsGreen Bay

DallasSan Francisco

NY Jets

Dwayne ReedVarsity Sports Dir. Last week: 3-5Season: 13-11

(.541)

Gridlocks Guest

“Sunday brings a 90-percent chance of a

Niners’ victory.All factors consistent:Kevin Kolb starts, theBay Area wind swirls

and Patrick Willis goesbeast, the 49ers avoid0-5 in a low-scoring

win over Philly.”- Patrick Desmond

Talespinner sports

WeekendForecast

Touring

LacklandMembers of the Air Force

Cycling Team and local riderstoured Lackland Oct. 2, inwhat was a fundraising ridefor the recruiters on wheels.

More than 100 ridersmade it out to ride a 5-, 10-or 18-mile distance.

“It was a blast,” LarryGallo, AFCT Texas teamcaptain, said. “Everyonewants this to become aannual event.”

The rides began in thearea around the flightline,while the 18-mile rideextended into Kelly FieldAnnex.

All proceeds raised duringthe event help fund theAFCT’s recruiting rides.

In addition to theRegister’s Annual GreatBicycle Ride Across Iowa –the AFCT’s main recruitingevent – in July, the Texascyclists also participate inHotter’N Hell 100 races andother local events.

Photo by Robbin Cresswell

Touring

Lackland