C M Y K

INSIDE TODAY

Education nowPage 3

New commander welcomedPage 3

War paintPage 15

Justice filesPage 10

Vol. 35, No. 30 Friday, July 18, 2008

by Airman 1st Class Tania Reid 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

An Airman from the 6th Mission Support Group received two combat medals at the Mac-Dill Davis Conference Center, July 11.

Capt. Timothy O’Sullivan was awarded the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart for his heroic actions while deployed at Basrah, Iraq. He was assigned as a senior advisor to help with the force protection at the Multi-National, Security Transition Command.

He returned recently from his deployment after being wounded by enemy forces during a convoy attack.

“Basrah was constantly under rocket at-tacks, in a regular day we would have been hit by more than 200 times,” said Captain O’Sullivan.

Captain O’Sullivan participated in more than 50 combat convoy missions by provid-ing force protection support. He led his team in helping to provide logistical support to more than 20,000 Iraqi soldiers located at multiple forward outposts throughout Southern Iraq.

During one convoy on March 3, an armor penetrating improvised explosive device hit the warrior vehicle in which he travelled. It is the incident that earned him the Purple Heart. He earned the Bronze Star for his overall perfor-mance in mentoring Iraqi forces while operat-ing in a hostile war zone.

“We had more than 270 rockets shooting at our vehicle while we were on a convoy to one of the units to ensure they had enough supplies,” said Captain O’Sullivan. “One of the guys re-viewed an article while I sat in the back of the

warrior before there was a huge blast; I was blown to one side.”

The vehicle had been hit by an IED, prevent-ing them from completing the convoy mission.

“One of the guys said he had looked around, saw me and thought I had died but I was un-conscious,” he said. “I recovered several min-

MacDill Airman awarded Bronze Star and Purple Heart

Photo by Senior Airman Nancy Hooks

Capt. Timothy O’Sullivan, 6th Mission Support Group was presented the Bronze Star and the Purple Heart July 11 by Maj. Gen. Robert R. Allardice, director of Strategy, Plans and Policy, Headquarters, U.S. Central Command. Capt. O’Sullivan was awarded for his heroic actions while deployed at Basrah, Iraq. He was assigned as a senior advisor to help with the force protection at the Multi-National Security Transition Command. Captain O’Sullivan participated in more than 50 combat convoy missions. He led his team in helping to provide logistical sup-port to more than 20,000 Iraqi soldiers.

See MEDALS, Page 11

by Gen. Stephen R. Lorenz Commander, Air Education and Training Command

These are challenging times. If you’re keep-ing up with the news, you’re probably as frus-trated as I am when you see editorials with titles like, “Clean up the Air Force.” While we have important issues such as nuclear ac-countability that must be addressed, you and I both know that the vast majority of the Air Force does not need “cleaning up.” As Secre-tary of Defense Robert Gates has said, “I have every confidence in you, and in the Air Force that has served our country so well.”

Nevertheless, when faced with these nega-tive perceptions, our best answer is to get back to basics. Every good team faces bad news from time to time. The excellent teams get through adversity by focusing on what made them ex-cellent to begin with. This is what we must do now.

For the U.S. Air Force, our basics have been, and must always be, our core values: integri-ty, service and excellence. These values have stood the test of time. They sustained our pre-decessors when they faced difficulty, and they will do the same for us today.

Integrity is our number one value, which is why we say “Integrity First.” When used to de-scribe a building, the word integrity implies strength. If a building has integrity, it can weather a storm and remain strong. The Air Force is built upon the integrity of its people -- you and me. If our collective integrity is strong, then the Air Force will be able to weather any storm. Unfortunately, the opposite is true as well.

I believe the key to integrity is transpar-ency. Our actions should be transparent to outsiders. While they may not always agree with our decisions, they will see that we are making an honest effort to do what is right. Everything we do in serving the nation should be done as if we were being observed by the

American people. If we act in this way, integ-rity will not be a problem.

We are all public servants, and this requires sacrifice. In short, it requires us to put “Ser-vice Before Self.” We exhibit this core value when we leave our families for deployments, when we put ourselves in harm’s way, and even when we work the extra hour to make sure the job is done right.

Service Before Self does not mean service in spite of self, however. We all have times when our personal lives, especially our families, take priority. That is when we as the Air Force family must step up and cover for each other. When you take on an additional task to help a fellow Airman who is dealing with personal issues, you make the Air Force stronger. And one day, someone will do the same for you.

We became the world’s leading Air Force by exhibiting “Excellence In All We Do,” and we must keep striving for excellence today. This means that we must aggressively and con-stantly seek improvement. The Airmen who came before us would not settle for the status quo. They always sought better ways of doing business -- better processes, better equipment, better training. We must do the same.

It is a fact that the most dangerous time for each of us is when we first get comfortable at something, be it flying a sortie, fixing an engine, teaching a class, or simply driving to work. Comfort leads to complacency, and com-placency kills. For this reason, I believe that we all should be a little uncomfortable in our jobs. That slight degree of discomfort gives us a valuable edge that spurs us to learn more and get better.

Can I share a secret with you? I’m a little uncomfortable in my new position as com-mander of Air Education and Training Com-mand. As I learn about what the great Airmen of the command do, I am truly humbled. Our command is so large and diverse that I have a hard time seeing how I can ever become as

knowledgeable as I want to be. Although I would like to be comfortable, I

know that personal comfort would be profes-sionally detrimental for the Airmen I com-mand. That is why I’m going to leave my com-fort zone, focus on the basics, and strive for bigger and better things for our team. I am just one Airman, however, and I can’t do any-thing alone.

No one says it better than our acting Secre-tary of the Air Force, Michael Donley. “There is no quicker route to recovery than the power of tens of thousands of Airmen and civilians rededicating themselves to the high standards of excellence that have always been the hall-mark of the world’s best Air Force.” I ask you to come alongside me, and let’s work together to turn adversity into opportunity by getting back to basics.

Gen. Stephen R. Lorenz

MacDill ThunderboltPublisher: Carla Floyd

Editor: Nick Stubbs

The MacDill Thunderbolt is published by Sunbelt Newspa-pers, Inc., a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an authorized publication for distribution to members of the U.S. military services on MacDill. Contents of the MacDill Thunderbolt are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, the Department of

the Air Force or the 6th Air Mobility Wing.The appearance of advertising in this publication, includ-

ing inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, 6th Air Mobility Wing or Sunbelt Newspapers, Inc., of the products or service advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user, or patron.

Advertising information may be obtained by calling 259-8104. For classified advertising call 657-4500.

News items for the MacDill Thunderbolt can be submitted to the 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs office, Bldg. 299, at 8208 Hangar Loop Drive, Suite 14, MacDill AFB, FL 33621, or call the MacDill Thunderbolt staff at 828-4586. Email: thunder-bolt@MacDill.af.mil.

Deadline for article submissions is noon, Thursdays to appear in the next week’s publication. Articles received after deadline may be considered for future use. All submissions are considered for publication based on news value and time-liness.

Every article and photograph is edited for accuracy, clarity, brevity, conformance with the “Associated Press Stylebook and Libel Manual” and Air Force Instruction 35-101.

COMMENTARYA call to return to basics: integrity, excellence and service

NEWS/FEATURESNew commanderCol. William Francis, 6th Mission Support Group commander, passes the guidon to Lt. Col. Aaron Meadows at a change-of-command ceremony, July 10. Lt. Col. Meadows assumed command of the 6th Communications Squadron from former commander Lt. Col. Pat-rick Gooley, who will de-ploy to Baghdad, Iraq.

Senior Airman Rylan Albright

by Senior Airman Stephenie Wade6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

“Make education a priority throughout your career, and doors will continue to open,” said the Former Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne.

With the Air Force going through its cur-rent transition, Airman need to learn new skills, and there is no better way to prepare for the future than furthering education. One of the strategic Air Force talking points for this month focuses on taking care of our people, and the new GI Bill provides just that.

On June 30, President George W. Bush signed the law called Post-9/11 Veterans Edu-cational Assistance Act. According to the De-partment of Veteran Affairs Web site the bill will go into effect on Aug. 1, 2009 for all mili-tary and veterans to utilize.

Pursuing an education is important if Air-men want to have a successful future. But whether it’s in the Air Force or as a civilian, the truth is education costs. Now Airmen can pursue their education without worries with the new Montgomery GI bill passed and so can

their family.There are three new benefits of the new

21st Century GI Bill. The first is that the bill will pay the highest in-state public tuition rate. The new G.I. Bill automatically adjusts itself as tuitions increase, and provides a dol-lar-for-dollar tuition match for private colleges and universities who choose to participate in the program.

Tuition and fees will be sent directly to the school in a lump sum. If students choose to at-tend less than full-time they will receive a por-tion of the payment based on the number of units of study.

The other benefits include a living stipend and up to $1,000 a year for books and supplies.

The monthly housing stipend will be paid based on the monthly basic housing allowance equal to the pay grade of an E-5 with depen-dents in the zip code of the school the student is enrolled. However, active duty, individuals in training 50 percent or less of the time or who are pursing distance learning are not eli-gible for the housing stipend.

The 1,000 dollars provided for books and supplies will be received in the first month of the term.

The new bill eliminates the $1,200 enroll-ment fee, extends the use-or-lose benefit re-quirement from 10 to 15 years, and greatly en-hances the amount paid to guard and reserve members.

A new provision added to the bill also al-lows reenlisting service members to transfer their educational benefits to their spouse or children.

The new Post 9/11 GI bill is a prime exam-ple of taking care of our people. The Air Force has provided this great opportunity to Airmen and their families, so don’t wait, educate.

Education opens doors; new GI Bill set to deliver more

Color Available

NEWS/FEATURES

by Robert CowartInformation Security program manager

In today’s ever changing world of tech-nology, electronic devices have become smaller with the ability to store larger amounts of information and have more advanced capabilities. When operating in the world of classified information, the use of technology is paramount. This changing technology enables us to conduct business more efficiently and effectively. It also can pose a real and serious threat to our national security if not handled and used properly. From USB Flash Drives that can store up to 32 GB to Cell Phones that can do just about everything short of cook-ing your dinner, technology never ceases to amaze all of us. Just as much as this technology works for us, it also serves the same purpose for our adversaries. Like never before, it is vital to practice sound fundamentals in safeguarding our nation’s

secrets. For me, football and safeguarding clas-

sified hold many similarities. One of the most important similarities they share is fundamentals. Any die hard football en-thusiast will tell you that the game of foot-ball is always evolving. The players get bigger, faster, and better year after year. What does not change and never will with football are the fundamentals of play. To be a great football team, every individu-al must strive to practice sound football fundamentals collectively on every play. Information Security is no different. Al-though technology is forever evolving, the fundamentals of safeguarding classified have remained the same. Over the years, the fundamentals have been tested time and time again and have been proven to work. The threat of new technology comes when the fundamentals we have in place

Information security: New technology, same fundamentals

See INFO SECURITY Page 16

by Stephen WilsonWing Operations Security program manager

In order to effectively and efficiently carry out our day-to-day operations, we must be able to communicate information. A significant amount of information that we convey on a daily basis is unclassified yet sensitive. This sensitive information re-quires protection from inadvertent or unauthorized release or disclosure. Whether communicating face-to-face, by phone, mail, e-mail, or video teleconferencing, sensi-tive information about our operations and activities including personal information must be safeguarded from adversary collection and exploitation. Operations Security (OPSEC) is a program that focuses on identifying and controlling unclassified yet sensitive information. The Air Force refers to this sensitive information as critical information or CI. This information is identified by such caveats as Privacy Act, for official use only (FOUO), restricted or limited distribution, arms export control infor-mation, etc.

Protecting sensitive information from our adversaries requires a concerted effort from everyone. Types of adversaries include foreign and domestic terrorists, and criminal elements, including those involved in identity thief. The following are basic countermeasures you can use to protect sensitive information:

• Shred any documents containing sensitive information. • Use a secure phone. • If you don’t have access to a secure phone, practice good communications disci-

pline. In other words, don’t elaborate and convey only minimum details. • Limit access on a strict need-to-know basis and consider information compart-

mentalization. Ensure all e-mails containing FOUO, Privacy Act, and other sensitive information are encrypted and include caveats. This includes attachments/enclo-sures.

• Do not leave your computer unattended and control your work area. • Practice consistency, diligence and vigilance. Keep your guard up and don’t

become complacent—expect the unexpected. Remember, OPSEC is based on the as-

by Steve BallistreaWing Information assurance manager

Greetings “Team MacDill”! The following informa-tion is in line with the AMC/CV direction to increase security awareness during this year’s upcoming “AMC Security Awareness Day” which takes place on 22 July 2008. This information should help shed some light on the many questions we, in the Wing In-formation Assurance Office, have had concerning the proper disposition of excess magnetic media such as hard drives and backup tapes, etc.

A very important part of protecting government information is applying something we call “Rema-nence Security”. First of all, what is it? Remanence is the residual representation of data that was previ-ously erased from magnetic media in some way. Re-manence security is the use of prescribed safeguards and controls to prevent reconstruction or disclosure of sensitive or classified information to persons who do not have the proper clearance or need-to-know for this information. It includes protecting systems and media being discarded, as well as properly sanitiz-ing systems and media that have processed or inad-vertently received transfers of sensitive or classified information.

Typically, few people are aware of how much sen-sitive information might potentially be provided to unauthorized personnel by failing to properly clear or destroy magnetic, optical, or other sensitive me-dia. For example, somebody purchasing excess com-puters at the Defense Reutilization Marketing Ser-vice (DRMS) may really be searching for sensitive residual information on those systems. Additionally, somebody dumpster-diving for diskettes or old hard drives may be hoping to find operational details of our operations.

With such alarming possibilities, we need to in-tensify our efforts to ensure that any form of sensi-tive media is properly sanitized or destroyed to pre-vent giving any valuable information to America’s enemies. World events expose terrorist sleeper cells that patiently gather information and wait for the right opportunity to execute their plans. In light of these attacks against America, we each need to be a little more cautious of how we protect our sensi-tive or potentially sensitive information. One of the more common mistakes regarding the protection of information is improper placement of Privacy Act or For Official Use Only warning statements on emails. These warning statements must be at the very begin-ning of the email rather than the end. Many people

Cyber security tip: ‘remanence security’

See CYBER SECURITY, Page 8

Operations securitySecurity Awareness Day: OPSEC critical to mission

See OPSEC, Page 8

Red Bull FlugtagOn July 19 the 91st Air

Refueling Squadron will have a team participate in the Red Bull Flugtag. They will launch their human-powered flying machines above Tampa Bay’s wa-ters at City Park at Tampa Convention Center. Red Bull Flugtag Tampa Bay will boast almost 40 outra-geous crafts, ranging from giant footwear to super-sized sea creatures, built by participants ranging from animators to biolo-gists and college students

to flight instructors. Come out a cheer them on! For more information go to http://www.redbullflugta-gusa.com/

Finance operating hours

Beginning July 21, the 6th Comptroller Squad-ron Finance customer service section is chang-ing its hours of operation from 7:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. to 8:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Any questions, contact 2nd Lt. Jesus, financial services officer, 828-4092 or Master Sgt. Mitchell, chief Finan-cial Services Flight 828-9269.

Legal Office closure

The 6th Air Mobility Wing legal office will be closed today from 10:45 a.m. to 1 p.m. for an official function. If you need im-mediate assistance, please contact the Command Post at 828-4361. It will re-open promptly at 1 p.m. for cus-tomer service.

MSS ID card office updates

The 6th Mission Sup-port Squadron ID card of-fice has made some recent changes. To get a new ID, two forms of identification are needed; expired ID

cards and driver’s license are most common. Peak hours of business are from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. For all CAC card holders there is an appointment line that can be used. The number is 828-1988, but appoint-ments will not be made during peak hours.

SNCO InductionCome celebrate a mile-

stone achievement with our newest senior non-commissioned officers at the 2008 SNCO Induction Banquet. The banquet will be held Aug. 1 at the Surf ’s Edge Club at 6 p.m. For more information please

contact Senior Master Sgt. Pemberton or Master Sgt. Barber at 827-9309/9300 or 827-9991.

AMC IconMacDill will be holding

our very own Air Mobility Command Icon competi-tion Aug. 15 at the Enlist-ed Club at 5 p.m.

Do you have the vocals to win $500? The local ac-tive duty winner will ad-vance to the AMC competi-tion held at Scoot Air Force Base.

For more informa-tion contact Marketing at 828-3055 or go to http://www.macdi l l s e rv i c e s.com/AMC%20Icon/En-try_Form.pdf to download your application.

Estate settlingAnyone with a claim

against or who is indebted to the estate of Lt. Col Su-zanne Bragg, U.S. Special Operations Command, MacDill, should contact Lt. Col. John Motley, U.S. Spe-cial Operations Command, SCSO-J39, 7701 Tampa Point Blvd., MacDill AFB, FL, 33621. Or call (727) 856-1309.

NEWSNews Briefs

sumption that there is always a threat.We must remember that there is no panacea against a terrorist attack

or other criminal acts. Because of that, we all must become and remain OPSEC-conscientious. OPSEC awareness and education, common sense, and leadership support at all levels are essential keys to successful OP-SEC but the critical key to effective OPSEC is our attitude. OPSEC re-quires a proactive, participatory attitude. Attitude can be our greatest vulnerability or our best countermeasure. Our adversaries know this too well and have proven it all too often with deadly results. We must un-derstand and appreciate the critical importance of OPSEC at work and home. OPSEC is everyone’s responsibility.

Please contact your unit OPSEC Coordinator or the Wing OPSEC Pro-gram Manager at 828-9904 for further information.

do not read entire emails and will surely miss the most important part, the warning statement. Proper placement of these statements will alert the reader to the sensitivity of the information at the very outset of the e-mail.

An important goal of our office is to teach those who support the Air Force mission that their role in remanence security is critical in maintaining a strong Information Assurance (IA) posture. Each member of “Team MacDill” must realize that it is important to not only protect information on our networks, but to use only approved products and methods to eliminate all traces of residual information on systems or media being disposed of or reutilized. The Wing IA Of-fice has an approved degausser (demagnetizer) device, affectionately called the “Terminator”, that can be used to destroy information on various magnetic media such as hard drives and tapes. To make ar-rangements to use the “Terminator”, you must contact your Unit In-formation Assurance Officer (ISSO) who will in turn contact this of-fice. If you do not know who your Unit ISSO is, give us a call at DSN 968-4149 or 968-3169 or email us at 6AMW.IAO@macdill.af.mil. For more information on “Remanence Security,” visit our Wing IA (6 CS/SCXS) Web site at: https://private.macdill.amc.af.mil/6msg/6cs/SCBS/COMPUSEC/remsec/remsec.htm

CYBER SECURITYFrom Page 4

OPSECFrom Page 4

Article 15’s for May On May 2, an Airman received an Article 15 for underage drinking and absenting himself from duty without leave (AWOL) for one day. This member’s punishment consisted of a reduction to the grade of Airman Basic, 10 days of extra duty, and a reprimand.

Discharges for MayOn May 21, an Airman Basic was discharged from the

United States Air Force for Pattern of Misconduct. The evidence consisted of a Special Court-Martial conviction for AWOL for four days, an LOR for failure to go, and a second Special Court-Martial conviction for destruction of personal property and disorderly conduct. The mem-ber was discharged with an Under Honorable Conditions (General) service characterization.

Article 15’s for JuneOn June 16, an Airman First Class received an Article

15 for drinking alcohol while under the legal drinking age of 21. The member was one of several individuals playing a drinking game in a dormitory day room. The punishment included reduction to the grade of Airman, suspended until December 2008 unless sooner vacated for any further misconduct; forfeiture of $250.00 pay, sus-pended until December 2008 unless sooner vacated for any further misconduct; and restriction to the limits of MacDill AFB, Florida for 14 days.

On June 16, an Airman First Class received an Article 15 for drinking alcohol while under the legal drinking age of 21. This member was one of several individuals play-ing a drinking game in a dormitory day room. This mem-ber’s punishment consisted of a reduction to the grade of Airman, suspended until November 2008, unless sooner vacated for further misconduct; forfeiture of $250.00 pay

See JUSTICE FILES, Page 12

utes later but didn’t know the intensity of my injuries. I think it was the adrenaline rush to get to safety.”

After being transported to safety, he was immediately sent to a hospi-tal in Kuwait. Then he received shocking news.

“I was told I had a concussion and had internal bleeding,” he added. “My vision was blurred and when the doctor held up his fingers I couldn’t make out the figures, my hearing was also impaired.”

The injuries he sustained had him undergo more treatments to deter-mine the severity.

“When I got on the phone to speak with my commander, I was told that I had to go to hospital in Germany,” added Captain O’Sullivan. “I under-went CAT Scans and X-rays which showed massive brain trauma.”

His brain damage resulted in him having to end his deployment ear-lier than expected.

“It was frustrating, I couldn’t answer basic questions,” he mentioned. “I was asked to name five animals and the only one that came to mind was a dog.”

Captain O’Sullivan was transported to Wilford Hall where he was hospitalized before being released to the Tampa General VA Blast Injury Clinic.

His wife Kristen O’Sullivan, who received a certificate for her out-standing contribution to the military, remembered her first call from her husband.

“I was the first person he called he was telling me he got hit but there was nothing to worry about,” she said. “But of course you’re going to

worry his voice was not the same; I tried to stay calm so I could give him the support needed.”

“She was right by my side when I got back from the Middle East and very supportive,” said Captain O’Sullivan. “I thank her for her strength during my recovery.”

Captain O’Sullivan still receives treatment and therapy for his inju-ries but has no regrets.

“If anyone asked me would you do it again, I’d do it again in a heart-beat,” he added. “I get questions about whether or not we’re making a difference in Iraq, and I say yes, we are making a great impact.”

He mentioned several changes that have taken place since he re-turned home.

“I was in a very unique situation, as the only Air Force person work-ing closely with the British Army living among them,” said Captain O’Sullivan. “They were a great group of guys who accepted me in their camp and were very helpful we worked side by side on the missions.”

The Iraqi units, U.S., British and Australian armed forces who worked together to provide supplies are now fully equipped, and the city of Bas-rah since the rule of power changed now rarely undergoes enemy at-tacks, he said. The Iraqi Armed Forces have taken over maintaining the balance in that area.

Captain O’Sullivan wishes to someday return to his force protection duties and deploy, but for now he is still recovering from his injuries. He will be working with U.S. Central Command in the near future, but until then he is focused on healing.

MEDALSFrom Page 1

per month for 2 months; and restriction to the limits of MacDill AFB, Florida for 30 days.

On June 23, an Airman First Class received an Article 15 for providing alcohol to a person under the legal drink-ing age of 21. The punishment consisted of reduction to the grade of Airman, suspended until December 2008 un-less sooner vacated for any further misconduct; forfeiture of $300.00 pay per month for 2 months; restriction to the limits of MacDill AFB, Florida for 45 days; 45 days of ex-tra duty; and a reprimand.

On June 30, an Airman received an Article 15 for drink-ing alcohol while under the legal drinking age of 21 and disorderly conduct. This member was one of several indi-viduals playing a drinking game in a dormitory day room. In addition, this member was involved in an altercation with another person. The punishment included reduction to the grade of Airman Basic, suspended until Decem-ber 2008 unless sooner vacated for any further miscon-duct; forfeiture of $250.00 pay, suspended until December 2008 unless sooner vacated for any further misconduct; restriction to MacDill AFB, Florida for 14 days; and a rep-rimand.

Discharges for JuneOn June 2, a Staff Sergeant was discharged from the

United States Air Force for Failure in the Air Force Fit-ness Program. The evidence consisted of eight fitness test failures and a Letter of Admonishment for failure in the Fitness Program. This member was previously granted retention under the condition that the member passed his next fitness test. However, the member did not pass this last test and was accordingly discharged with an Honor-able service characterization.

On June 26, a Senior Airman was discharged from the Unites States Air Force for Failure in the Air Force Fit-ness Program. The evidence consisted of four consecutive fitness test failures, two Letters of Reprimand and a Let-ter of Counseling for failure in the Fitness Program. The Airman was discharged with an Honorable service char-acterization.

JUSTICE FILESFrom Page 10

Dirty work!Senior Airman Anthony Dodge, 379th Expedi-tionary Maintenance Squadron, applies chaffe wrapping on hydraulic hoses, while underneath a hydraulic test stand, to prevent hoses from bursting while in opera-tion. Airman Dodge re-places all wrapping due to the wear and tear, in-tense heat and mechani-cal vibrations apply to the hoses. Airman Dodge is originally from Sioux City, Iowa deployed from MacDill.

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Johnny Saldivar

by Lt. Mike MorleyNaval Station Rota Public Affairs

ROTA, Spain (NNS) — Naval Station Rota’s lo-gistics experts found themselves responsible for ship-ping rather unusual pieces of cargo July 10: two giant squids destined for a new home at the Smithsonian Museum in Washington.

Generally, personnel in Rota are involved in mov-ing tons of equipment, spare parts and supplies to and from locations around the world.

“It’s one of the more unusual things I’ve dealt with,” said Chief Storekeeper (SW) Abraham Racela, ware-house logistics manager for Fleet Industrial Support Center Sigonella, Detachment Rota. “I was surprised when we got this.”

The giant squids, a female measuring 26 feet in length and a 9-foot long male, were captured sepa-rately by fishermen off of Spain’s northern coast in 1,300-feet of water. When caught years ago, the female measured 36 feet in length, but it has shrunk consid-erably from being soaked in preservative fluid. Female giant squids are larger than males, and this female, is among the largest giant squid ever recovered.

The Smithsonian obtained the squid pair from the coordinator for the study and protection of marine spe-cies in Luarca, Spain.

“Due to the challenging size and nature of the cargo, it was decided that military aircraft would be more capable than commercial transport,” said Robert Free-man, spokesman, Office of the Oceanographer of the Navy.

The Smithsonian asked the Office of the Oceanogra-pher of the Navy for assistance in getting the oversized specimens to Washington and paid the government for transportation.

The squids left Rota on a U.S. Air Force C-5 Galaxy on July 11, bound for Dover, Del. The squid will be-come part of the Smithsonian’s National Museum of Natural History’s new Ocean Hall exhibit. Once open in September, Ocean Hall will be the largest perma-nent exhibit in the Museum of Natural History.

“This will be the first time in the U.S. that a male and female giant squid have been on display together,” wrote Jill Johnson, exhibit developer at the Smithson-ian’s National Museum of Natural History.

“The large female will be in the center of the hall,” Johnson added, directly under the museum’s famous model of a North Atlantic right whale.

While it is rare for the Navy to get so directly in-volved, Freeman said that such collaborations further one of the goals of the Oceanographer of the Navy, which is to educate the public about the ocean and raise the level of ocean literacy of the American public.

WASHINGTON (Army News Ser-vice — Over the recent 4th of July holiday weekend, no active-duty Soldiers died due to off-duty activities.

This was the first time the Army has lost no Soldiers in off-duty accidents over the Independence Day holiday since it began keeping records in 1974, according to the U.S. Army Combat Readiness and Safety Center.

Brig. Gen. William H. Forrester, director, U.S. Army Combat Readiness and Safety Center, partly attributes the prevention of loss to good leadership.

“This reversal of a 34-year trend is a di-rect result of engaged leadership at every echelon.”

The general said it was the application

Photo by Pfc. Monica K. Smith

Soldiers in 603rd Aviation Support Battal-ion play a game of volleyball during a bat-talion “fun day” July 4 at the North Morale Welfare and Recreation Center on Camp Striker.

by Army Pfc. Christina SindersSpecial to American Forces Press Service

BAGRAM AIRFIELD, AFGHANI-STAN – A soldier from 173rd Airborne Brigade Combat Team was awarded a Silver Star Medal in a ceremony here July 12.

Army Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser, Combined Joint Task Force 101 com-mander, presented Army Capt. William G. Cromie with the decoration and praised him for his valor.

Cromie’s platoon was called out to per-form route clearance on a portion of the Korengal Road on Nov. 16, 2007, after re-ceiving a tip that an improvised explosive device may have been placed there.

“While travelling down the road, our first vehicle struck an IED,” Cromie said. “Immediately, we were ambushed on three sides by heavily armed militants.”

Two of Cromie’s soldiers managed to maneuver into a better position that al-lowed them to cover the platoon, but they were soon pinned down and running dangerously low on ammunition. Grab-bing more ammunition, Cromie took off through the small-arms crossfire to re-supply his two soldiers.

The platoon called for close-air sup-port and mounted a counterattack that

pushed the militants back to a fortified compound. The platoon then cleared the compound and killed the militants.

“I really would like to thank the squad leaders -- they really acted professionally even under a stressful situation like that -- and the guys in 3rd Platoon for their bravery,” Cromie said.

Photo by Pfc. Christina Sinders

Army Capt. William G. Cromie receives the Silver Star Medal from Army Maj. Gen. Jeffrey Schloesser, Combined Joint Task Force 101 commander, at Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, July 12, 2008. Cro-mie was recognized for his valor and leadership abilities in a combat opera-tion on Nov. 16, 2007.

Army captain receives Silver Star Navy ships giant squids

No off-duty soldiers lost over holiday weekend

See SAFE, Page 19

NEWS/FEATURES

Members of the 6th Air Mobility Wing Security Forces Expeditionary Training Flight. got some valuable combat training July 14, when they skirmished at Thunder Village, prac-ticed patrols and base defensive tactics. The training involved wearing full gear, including gas masks, which would be required in a real attack to protect them from chemical and biological agents. Participants were armed with paint-ball firing replicas of standard issue battle weapons, which also added to the authenticity of the scenario.

Photos by Staff Sgt. Joseph SwafforPhotosby Staff Sgt. Joseph Swafford

Photo by Airman Rylan Albright

Photo by Airman Rylan Albright

are not practiced. In football, when sound fundamentals are not practiced on a play and things go bad, the team has another opportunity to get it right on the next play, possession, or quarter. They can overcome their mistake and still come out on the winning end. In Information Security, we have to get it right on every play. We can-not afford to have mistakes. Unlike foot-ball, our mistakes can have catastrophic effects. Such mistakes can cause the un-authorized disclosure of valuable secrets resulting in grave danger to our national security or even worse, lose of life.

The fundamentals of safeguarding can be comprised into marking, storing, ac-

cessing, transmitting, reproducing, and destruction. The ultimate goal of safe-guarding is to prevent the inadvertent dis-closure and to delay deliberate attempts to gain unauthorized access to our classified information.

This goal is achieved by everyone, in a collective effort, protecting those assets while employed by the government and af-ter employment has ended. In the upcom-ing weeks we will elaborate, in depth, on each fundamental.

Contact your unit Security Manager with any questions you may have about safeguarding classified or contact the Wing Information Security Office at 828-4615.

INFO SECURITYFrom Page 4

of composite risk manage-ment and good decision-making by Soldiers, Fam-ily members, civilians and battle buddies that allowed the Active Army to achieve a safety landmark.

The general went on to say that it is engaged lead-ership that lays the foun-dation for a cultural shift. That, in conjunction with Soldiers taking personal responsibility, will further reduce losses.

“It is important for all of us in our Army to take a moment and acknowl-edge such a momentous milestone,” Forrester said. “However, we can not afford to rest on the laurels of our success and give accidents a chance to strike when our guard is down. We must always remain vigilant to preserve our nation’s com-bat power, both on and off duty, if we want to continue to enjoy continued success.”

SAFE 4THFrom Page 14

Free Water Aerobics

MacDill fitness and sports center and out-door recreation are offer-ing a free water aerobics class July 17 through August 28. The class is scheduled for Tuesdays and Thursdays from 8 to 9 a.m. Ages 16 and up. It is on first come first serve bases and they’re only accepting 20 daily participants per day, so be on time.

by Staff Sgt. Beth Del Vecchio CSTC-A Public Affairs

KABUL, Afghanistan (AFPN) — Mentoring the Afghan National Army staff at the Kabul print plant is a great mission, said Maj. Paul Kaster, Combined Security Transi-tion Command-Afghanistan ANA communications mentor. But, he says he may have worked himself out of a job.

Major Kaster, deployed from MacDill Air Force Base, Fla., said the Afghans running the plant are nearly able to operate indepen-dently.

“They have made tremendous gains in a few short years,” Major Kaster said. “They run all of the operations. My help is mostly on the logistical side, but even then, I just give suggestions; they find the answers that work for them.”

During an average week, the plant produces 15,000 newspapers, 2,500 magazines, 50,000 forms, 10,000 targets, 790 books and 400 certificates. All of the products are used by the ANA for training, re-cruitment and logistical support, such as in-processing new soldiers and tracking equipment or sup-plies. The plant also provides oper-ational support with vehicle passes

and identification cards. “It’s hard to compare operations

at the plant two years ago to oper-ations today. They recently started tracking metrics, which is a huge accomplishment in itself,” Major Kaster said. “I would roughly esti-mate that their production capac-ity has increased fivefold.”

According to Major Kaster, these numbers are half of the true capac-ity of the plant.

“It’s more of a demand issue,” Major Kaster said. “They can print about twice as much as they are asked to do. They have some room to grow.”

ANA Col. Abdul Hadi, the direc-tor of the print plant, explained the history of the plant.

“Before we received our new machines in 2005, we did a lot of the work by hand,” Colonel Hadi said. “Our machines were very old. The new machines have helped us double our output at a better qual-ity.”

The old machines were only ca-pable of printing one or two colors, where as the new ones can print up to six colors on one product. The plant also received machines that were capable of post-production actions such as folding, binding and stapling.

Colonel Hadi said the products help train and educate the ANA, but also help communicate impor-tant information to the people of Afghanistan.

“Because we can make note-

books and training material for the ANA, we help make a better force,” Colonel Hadi said. “Because we can print a newspaper and maga-

Afghan print plant supports mission, training AF NEWS

See PRINT, Page 21

Photo by Staff Sgt. Beth Del Vecchio

Maj. Paul Kaster discusses a print job with an Afghan National Army civilian at the ANA print plant in Kabul, Afghanistan. During an aver-age week, the plant produces more than 75,000 products used for training, recruitment and logistical support. Major Kaster is a Com-bined Security Transition Command-Afghanistan Afghan National Army communications mentor.

zine to show the good things the ANA do, we can show the people of Afghanistan the many capabilities of their army.”

Major Kaster said Colonel Hadi and Col. Said Farooq, director of maintenance, have ad-opted some of the planning and tracking tools he uses back home, and have improved the way they do business.

“For example, their weekly staff meetings now include solid metrics that enable them to track past and present use and predict future use,” Major Kaster said. “Basically, they’ve gone

from reactive to proactive.” Colonel Farooq explained how the plant’s

products strengthen the relationship between the people of Afghanistan and the ANA. With the capability of the print plant growing, so does the ANA’s ability to train, recruit and in-form the people of Afghanistan on the great things the Army is accomplishing.

“Students at the university read the stories about the accomplishments of the ANA and want to join, then the force becomes stronger,” Colonel Farooq said. “We are building a bridge

between the ANA and the people.” Most American servicemembers take print-

ing for granted; if they need a form or a publi-cation, they download it or grab it from a shelf, or if they need a notebook, they get it from sup-ply, Major Kaster said.

“None of that exists in Afghanistan,” Major Kaster said. “Every form, document, book, post-er, manual, magazine and newspaper needs to be printed by the ANA itself. This central facil-ity adds tremendously to both the quality and efficiency of this process.”

PRINTFrom Page 20

Team Rhino, Beach Tennis USA’s top ranked Men’s Pro division team, an-nounced today that it will partner with Operation Once in a Lifetime to host a golf outing and beach tennis tournament to benefit American soldiers. The event will be held at Countryside Country Club, 3001 Counrtyside Blvd, Clearwater, Flor-ida, Saturday, July 19.

Team Rhino, consisting of Clearwater residents Mike Edison and Brett Johnson, and representatives from Operation Once in a Lifetime will hold the event to raise money and awareness for U.S. soldiers in need. The group hopes to raise $10,000, which they plan to present to Patrick Sowers, the charity’s founder and Pres-ident. Joining Mr. Sowers at the event will be servicemembers from the U.S. Air Force, U.S. Army, U.S. Marines, U.S. Coast Guard, and U.S. Navy, all who will benefit from the donations.

For more information or to register to play, contact Mike Edison at (727)-796-1136.

Operation Once in a Lifetime was cre-ated by a soldier to help other soldiers; a soldier knows what a soldier needs and a soldier knows what a soldier does not need. A soldier does not need to worry about providing beds for his kids, worry-ing if his electricity will still be on when he goes home or if his house will be fore-closed on when serving his/her country. A soldier needs a program that will provide free financial assistance regardless of his rank, race, branch of service, physical condition or his deployment status. A sol-dier needs a program that can help make a life altering contribution when he is in his/her greatest need; Operation Once in a Lifetime is that program. For more in-formation, visit www.operationonceinal-ifetime.com.

Tampa Bay beach tennis pros help servicemembers

At the Movies

Chapel ScheduleProtestant servicesSunday - 9 a.m., Traditional Service10:30 a.m., Religious Education, Noon, Gospel ServiceTuesday -Noon, Promise Keepers6 p.m., Pioneer Club(grades 1 to 7)Thursday - 11:30 a.m., Officers’ Christian Fel-lowshipFriday - 10 a.m., Women of the Chapel

Catholic servicesSaturday - Mass, 5:30 p.m.Sunday - Mass, 10:30 a.m.Monday to Thursday: Mass, 12:10 p.m.Saturday - Sacrament of Reconciliation, 4:30 p.m., (or by appointment)

Jewish and Islamic servicesCall 828-3621 for information.

Friday 7 p.m.

Indiana Jones and the Kingdom of the Crystal

SkullIn 1957, Indiana Jones is

thrust back in action, ventur-ing into the jungles of South America in a race against So-viet agents to find the mystical Crystal Skull. PG-13

Saturday 7 p.m.

Iron Man Tony Stark is a billionaire in-

dustrialist and genius inventor who is kidnapped and forced to build a devastating weapon. Instead, using his intelligence and ingenuity, Tony builds a high-tech suit of armor and es-

Zohan

Coming Soon

You don’t mess with the Zohan

Zohan, an Israeli comman-do, fakes his own death in or-der to pursue his dream: be-coming a hairstylist in New York. PG-13

The HappeningA family on the run from

an inexplicable and unstop-pable event that threatens not only humankind…but the most basic human instinct of them all: survival. R

The Happening

Shows and times are subject to change. Call the MacDill Theater at 828-2780 for complete listings. Doors normally open 20 minutes prior to showtime, but call the theater for verification because they may open earlier. Tickets are $3.25. Children under 4 are free, unless it’s a G-rated movie.

Indiana Jones

Iron Man

MACDILL COMMUNITY

Promotion and Recognition CeremonyThe monthly Wing promotion and recognition cere-

mony is scheduled for July 25 at 3 p.m. at the Enlisted Club.

DCMA change of commandThe Defense Contract Management Agency of St. Pe-

tersburg will have a change-of-command ceremony July 25 at 10 a.m. The ceremony will take place at the St. Petersburg Museum of Fine Arts, 255 Beach Dr. NE, St. Petersburg. For more information, contact Chief John Matuza at 727-539-2922.

Company Grade Officer CouncilMacDill Company Grade Officer Council invites

CGO’s (O1—O3) of all branches of service to join us for monthly events varying from social events, to communi-ty service, guest speakers and professional development. It is a great opportunity to meet other officers in your peer group, which can be especially helpful when you are new to the MacDill area. To be added to the email list and receive information just send an email to Lt Daniel Corneliussen at or call 813-828-4030.

Tinker registrationRegistration for Tinker Elementary will begin July 28

through August 14th, Monday – Thursday 8:00 a.m. to noon. To register your student you will need the follow-ing documentation: Original birth certificate, current school physical, Florida Certificate of Immunization, and social security card. For 1st – 5th grade students you will also need a copy of their last report card and contact information for their previous school. If you have any questions, you can contact the school office at 840-2043.

HAPPENINGS Off limits!The MacDill area at

the southwestern por-tion of the Interbay peninsula is off lim-its at all times. Entry into this area is not only illegal, but dan-gerous due to gunfire from the 6th Security Forces Squadron small arms range. The area directly behind the range, known as Coon’s Hammock Creek and Broad Creek or Rac-coon Creek, is clearly marked as off limits. For more information, call 6th SFS Combat Arms at 828-3211.

Graphic by Nick Stubbs