Vol. 41, No. 30 Thursday, July 25, 2013

Photo by Staff Sgt. Brandon Shapiro

Pictured is the viewpoint from a boom operator’s perspective as he trains in a KC-135 Stratotanker Boom Operator Weapon System Trainer. The BOWST is a fully simulated, large-scale procedural trainer for aerial refueling with replicated aircraft systems, controls, and functions within a complete aircrew boom compartment.

Critical Days of Summer, week 10: Trampoline safety - page 18

Boom simulator goes online - page 12

COMMANDER’S CORNER

MacDill ThunderboltPublisher: Bill BarkerEditor: 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.

Display advertising or classified advertising information

may be obtained by calling 259-7455. News items for the MacDill Thunderbolt can be submitted

to the 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs office, 8208 Hangar Loop Dr., suite 14, MacDill AFB, FL 33621, or call the MacDill Thunderbolt staff at 828-2215. Email: thunder.bolt@us.af.mil.

Deadline for article submissions is noon, Wednesdays 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.

COMMANDER’S ACTION LINE

The Action Line provides two-way communication between the 6th Air Mobility Wing commander and the MacDill community. A 24-hour recording service is provided so personnel may submit questions, concerns or com-ments. Call the Action Line at 828-INFO (4636) or email macdillwingcom-mander@us.af.mil.

To view Col. Scott DeThomas’ re-marks on his vision for MacDill AFB, go to www.macdill.af.mil and then click on “Col. DeThomas’ priorities, mission, and expectations video” in the upper left corner.

Commander’s vision

The 99th Air Refueling Squadron “Black Knights” would like to recognize Staff Sgt. William “Hammy” Larenzo for his outstanding work as a dedicated crew chief for the 117th Air Refueling Wing, Sumpter-Smith Air National Guard Base, Birmingham, Ala. Lt. Gen. Darren McDew, 18th Air Force commander, recently coined Larenzo for his outstanding work and dedication to the unit’s Total Force Association. McDew said he would never forget meeting Lar-

enzo for four distinct reasons. First, he was proud of how Larenzo represented the Air Force and how excited and proud he was of being a crew chief. Second, the general felt tired trying to keep up with Larenzo as he quickly and proudly showed off his work area and talked about his love of his job. Third, Larenzo made McDew feel old by making him tell stories he hasn’t told in 20 years. Fi-nally, McDew felt respected by how Larenzo intently listened and genuinely cared about every one of his stories.

6th Air Mobility Wing shout-outs

by Col. Andre Briere6th Air Mobility Wing vice commander

I’d like to thank Col. DeThomas for lending me this space to thank all of you incredible Team MacDill Airmen for giving my family and I such a warm welcome to this amazing base! Our first month here has definitely given us a flavor for how dynamic, busy and wonderful the MacDill and the greater Tampa Bay com-munity are to live and work in. We feel very lucky to be here, as I’m sure all of you do as well.

One of the great things about military com-munities is that we get an opportunity to get fresh eyes on our installations and programs every PCS season. Because so many new folks move in and out of our bases each summer, it gives us a chance to hear new perspectives and find out what we look like to Airmen, Soldiers,

Sailors and Marines that just arrived from oth-er bases around the world. This summer I am one of those new Airmen, and for the remain-der of this column I’d like to give you my first impressions of MacDill AFB and its’ people.

My first day as your new vice happened to coincide with the series of wing “all-calls” Col. DeThomas held on the topic of sexual assault. One of the key phrases he conveyed that day is seared into my memory, and I hope you caught it as well. He said that we as professional Air-men should and must treat each other with “dignity, trust, and respect.”

If you’ll allow me to “geek-out” briefly and draw on my academic interest in philosophy and ethics, this concept of basing ethical be-havior on the dignity of the individual has a deep history in western philosophy. It is relat-ed to the notion first espoused by the German philosopher Immanuel Kant of never using other people as a “means” to an end but instead

First impressions

Col. Andre BriereSee CORNER, Page 22

Your T-bolt TodayWeek in photos: page 4 Images from around MacDill

NEWS/FEATURES

Community: page 21 Events, Chapel, more...

Briefs: page 6 News to know

by Airman 1st Class Vernon L. Fowler Jr.6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

In the Air Force, no one job is more impor-tant than another. Each is needed to keep the Air Force ‘machine’ running smoothly

so that the mission can be carried out malfunc-tion-free.

Without all the necessary components the Air Force possesses the lives of our Airmen, as well as the mission, can be placed at risk.

The 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron at MacDill Air Force Base, specifically supply, is a crucial component in maintaining the instal-lation’s overall readiness. The unit makes this evident each time its personnel sound off their signature catch-phrase “you can’t fly without supply!”

Maintaining inventory, among many things, is a very important part of the 6th LRS’s job. Its personnel must always ensure that equip-

‘You can’t fly without supply’

News/Features: page 8 Quick-thinking cabbie awarded

News/Features: page 12 World-class simulator debuts

See SUPPLY, Page 16

Photos by Staff Sgt. Brandon Shapiro

(Above) Airman 1st Class Luis Gonzalez Velez, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron, performs an inventory check at MacDill Air Force Base. Members of the 6th LRS provide logistical support to sustain the worldwide mission of the 6th Air Mobility Wing, two war-fighting commands and 38 mission partners. (Below) Airman 1st Class Luis Gonzalez Velez, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron, stocks equipment at MacDill.

Settlement of estate

Lt. Col. Jay A. Vietas, commander of the 6th Medical Support Squadron, re-grets to announce the death of Senior Air-man Douglas Caldas, formerly assigned to 6th Air Base Wing/6th Medical Group/6th Medical Support Squadron/Diagnostic Imaging Flight. Lt. Col. Mark W. Sankey, 6th Medical Support Squadron, has been appointed as the summary court officer to handle the disposition of the personal property of Caldas. Anyone indebted to or having a claim against the estate of Cal-das should contact Lt. Col. Mark Sankey at 813-827-9630 or DSN 968-9630.

News/Features: page 18 Critical Days of Summer

WEEK IN PHOTOS

Photo by Senior Airman Shandresha Mitchell

Airmen from the 6th Air Mobility Wing stand in formation before the Wing Warrior Workout at MacDill July 12.

Photo by Senior Airman Shandresha Mitchell

Col. Scott DeThomas, 6th Air Mobility Wing commander, passes the 6th Maintenance Group guidon to Col. Reginald Godbolt, during a change of command ceremony at MacDill July 18.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Tori Schultz

Airman 1st Class Sean Brown, a 91st Air Refueling Squadron cargo load team member, provides direction to a Halverson loader during the mo-bility exercise at MacDill July 14.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Tori Schultz

Members of Team MacDill participate in the Personnel Deployment Function line during a mobility exercise at MacDill July 14. The PDF line consists of various base agencies centralized in one location in an ef-fort to streamline the pre-deployment process.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Tori Schultz

Senior Airman Meagan Rymer, 6th Logistics Readiness Squadron lo-gistics technician, loads cargo on a scale during a mobility exercise at MacDill July 14. The primary objective of the MOBEX was to accomplish and evaluate MacDill AFB mobility processing procedures.

Ceremony honoring military widowsThere will be a ceremony honoring military widows from 10 to 11 a.m.

at the base chapel July 25. The MacDill community is invited to attend. Key note speaker will be retired Col. William Graham, MacDill Retiree Activities Office director. For more information contact Barbara Scott at 831-9556.

Commissary will close MondaysThe commissary will close on Mondays through Sept. 30 as a result of fur-loughs because of sequestration. Other days of operation remain Tuesday through Sunday.

MacDill CAP open houseThe MacDill Aviation Cadet Squadron is hosting an open house from

noon to 4 p.m. at their new facility, Building 38 next to the base pool, Aug. 10. The MacDill community is welcome to attend and learn more about civil air patrol programs. Membership in the Cadet Squadron is open to teens ages 12 to 18 and adults may join as senior member volunteers, pilots and mission staff. For more information contact Lt. Joe Mora at 954-604-0704 or email jamora@flwg.us.

Food drive for local food banksFederal employees are joining together to collect food nationwide for

local food banks. Bring non-perishable food items and place them into a

designated collection box located in your workplace. Boxes will be picked up on July 31 and Aug. 28. For more information contact: 6th AMW staff, 2nd Lt. Julian Ireland at 828-4092; 6th MDG, Master Sgt. Todd Schuler at 827-9338; 6th MSG, Tech. Sgt. Yvette Prioleau at 828-4254; 6th MXG, Master Sgt. Christopher Gulotta at 828-6844; and 6th OG, Capt. Jesse Rosal at 828-9614.

Tinker summer closingTinker Elementary will be closed during the summer, reopening July

29. Hours of registration will be Monday through Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. and 12:30 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. until Aug. 9. Monday-Friday op-erations will resume Aug. 12.

MARC book club meetings The MacDill Area Resilience Center Book Club had an enthusiastic

showing last meeting. “Calico Joe” was selected as the club’s first month’s read. It can be downloaded to an e-reader for free from the base library. Next meeting will be at 5 p.m. on July 25 and we’ll discuss the first month’s novel. “Joe” is a father-son reconciliation novel that centers on baseball in the early 1970’s, so next meeting will have a baseball theme. Wear a favor-ite jersey or cap, and enjoy ball park goodies. For more information, con-tact Lt. Col. Rachelle Nowlin at rachelle.nowlin@us.af.mil or 827-9529.

BRIEFS

See BRIEFS, Page 14

by Airman 1st Class Vernon L. Fowler Jr.6th Air Mobility Public Affairs

What would your immediate response be if some form of suspicious activity came to your attention?

Would you get away from the scene as quick-ly as possible? Pretend as if you didn’t see any-thing and continue life as usual? Or would you quickly take action and report it to the proper authorities?

Fortunately, one individual, Peter G. Himes, a Hillsborough County taxi driver, took it upon himself to prevent a potential threat from ever reaching his requested destination— the gates of MacDill Air Force Base, Fla.

According to the police report, Himes’ pas-senger displayed unstable behavior and made comments such as “on a mission” and “take care of a few people.”

After witnessing suspicious behavior and

overhearing disturbing comments from his pas-senger, Himes quickly took action by triggering a silent alarm, sending a signal to dispatchers which alerted the Tampa Police Department (TPD).

Himes said that one of his first thoughts was the need to stop the car before reaching the gates. “I would rather overreact and be wrong, than do nothing and something happens.”

Shortly after informing the local authorities, TPD pulled over the cab and apprehended the passenger for questioning.

For his quick action Himes received the Cit-izen’s Award from Jane Castor, Tampa Police Chief, in a ceremony on July 9, 2013. Col. Pe-ter Santa Ana, commander of the 6th Mission Support Group, also presented Himes with a certificate and commander’s coin to express the installation’s gratitude.

“Himes’ actions were very much appreciat-

NEWS/FEATURES

Photo by Airman 1st Class Vernon Fowler Jr.

Peter G. Himes, Tampa cab driver, stands with Jane Castor, Tampa Police Chief, and Col. Peter Santa Ana, 6th Mission Support Group commander, after receiving the Citizen’s Award at theTampa Police Department, July 9. Himes prevented a passenger from reaching MacDill Air Force Base and potentially causing harm to its personnel and civilians.

Cabbie awarded for quick thinking

See CABBIE, Page 20

by Nick StubbsThunderbolt editor

Making life easier and activities more afford-able for Air Force members and families is the idea behind the PLAYpass program, and eligi-ble participants are reminded that PLAYpass can help make summer a lot more fun.

Launched in 2011, the PLAYpass program saves Airmen returning from deployments, families of deployed Airmen and families of Airmen at dependent-restricted assignments to take advantage of hundreds of dollars in sav-ings and freebies for services from sports and recreation, trips and child care.

Youth programs, swimming lessons, instruc-tional classes, teen camps and sports programs for youths and adults are among the many of-ferings redeemable via the PLAYpass card. For more information, call Tech. Sgt. Tashiana Sanders at 828-1815 or visit www.myairforce-life.com.

Arts & CraftsFree wood shop usage fee ($3 per hour val-

ue)Free auto shop lift fee ($5.50 per hour value)Child Development CenterHourly child care, good for up to 10 hours of

care per child where space is availableShort Fitness Center free A la Carte Class

($5 value)Free A la Carte Class Card ($40 value)One free personal training session ($45 val-

ue)+

Golf course Five-day class is $49, with a PLAYpass hold-

ers receiving a $25 discount. The class teaches etiquette and gold lessons, with complimentary club rental, three-hole graduation scramble. Call 840-6904 for schedule.

Daily golf specials raning from $12 to $31 for PLAYpass holders, depending on rank and time of day.

Youth Center Piano classes on Mondays and Thursdays for

ages 5 to 18. Times are 2:30 to 6:30 p.m. Mon-days and 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. Thursdays. Call for available times. Fees up to $50 are covered by the PLAYpass, with monthly fees set at $112 for half-hour sessions.

Intramural basketball Start Smart Basket-ball registration will be Sept. 3 through Oct. 4. The six-week program is for youths 5 to 11, and is free for PLAYpass holders. A copy of a birth certificate and a physical taken within the past year is required.

Intramural soccer and Start Smart Soccer registration will be held through Aug. 2 for children 5 to 11. Cost is $30 for Youth Center members, $45 for non members and free for PLAYpass holders. The Smart Start program for 3 and 4 year-olds costs $36, but is free for PLAYpass holders.

Dance classes for children 2 to 10 include ballet, tap, jazz, cheer, tumbling and hip hop start in September. Classes are monthly and $49 per child for 30 minutes, $56 for 45 min-utes and hour classes, and $80 for cheer and tumbling. Up to $50 of fees are covered by the PLAYpass.

Don’t miss PLAYpass summer deals, activitiesNEWS/FEATURES

Air Force graphic

The PLAYpass, which supports deployed Air Force members and families, offers discounts and free events and services, many of them summer activities for children and adults.

www.myairforcelife.com

by Staff Sgt. Brandon Shapiro6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs

Saving millions, training more, and reducing maintenance costs; what was once a pipedream is now a reality at Mac-Dill Air Force Base.

On July 12 MacDill cut the ribbon on the Air Force’s fifth KC-135 Stratotanker Boom Operator Weapon System Trainer, initi-ating a savings of roughly $16 million annually. While there is nothing that can replace actual training in a KC-135, BOWST brings an affordable alternative.

How is this possible? The average operating flight cost for a three-hour KC-135 re-

fuel training mission is just shy of $20,000, while the BOWST completes the same mission for a miniscule $900. Now, add the costs of the estimated 860 annual “sim” flights that MacDill plans to forecast during fiscal year 2014, and $17 million is re-duced to about $850,000!

What exactly is the BOWST? The BOWST is a fully simulated, large-scale procedural train-

er for aerial refueling with replicated aircraft systems, controls, and functions within a complete aircrew boom compartment.

Add in the remarkable detailing, scaled design, mimicked re-fueling sounds, and the belly down refuel operating position, and even a seasoned operator forgets they are on the ground and not soaring at 30,000 feet.

“All of the instruments are exactly the same; the BOWST is an amazing alternative,” said Senior Airman Travis Burnett, 91st Air Refueling Squadron boom operator. “This is as real as you can get.”

Not only does the trainer make it possible to qualify “booms” more economically and efficiently, it allows instructors to input 68 possible in-flight emergencies and operating malfunctions.

“One of the greatest things about the BOWST is that we can enter malfunctions and prepare the operators before they expe-rience problems in the air,” said retired Chief Master Sgt. Jim Morman, a 30-year boom operator and quality assurance repre-sentative for the simulator. “It’s all-weather, day or night, and we can bring up any airplane that is air-refuelable in the Air Force inventory.”

Currently, between MacDill’s 6th Air Mobility Wing and 927th Air Refueling Wing, there are 48 boom operators, so having the BOWST will prove to be an extremely useful tool for training ac-tive duty and reserve Airmen.

“Bottom line... it’s going to save a ton of money and create a better crew force,” exclaimed Mormon.Additional Information:

The Air Force contracted the construction of nine BOWSTs, with the final four simulators to be delivered at Seymour John-son Air Force Base, N.C., Grissom Joint Air Reserve Base, Ind., March Air Force Base, Calif., and Scott Air Force Base, Ill.

MacDill BOWSTs about saving millions on training

Col. Scott DeThomas, 6th Air Mobility Wing commander, Airman 1st Class Darhon Ham-brick, 91st Air Refueling Squadron boom op-erator, Col. Douglas Schwartz, 927th Air Re-fueling Wing commander, Col. Andre Briere, 6th Air Mobility Wing vice commander, and Col. Bradford Anderson, 927th ARW vice com-mander, cut the ceremonial ribbon opening the new KC-135 Boom Operator Weapon Sys-tem Trainer at MacDill Air Force Base July 12. The BOWST at MacDill is the fifth to be made operational Air Force wide.

Photo by Airman 1st Class Sarah Breer

Senior Airman Travis Burnett, 91st Air Refuel-ing Squadron boom operator trains on Mac-Dill Air Force Base’s new KC-135 Stratotanker Boom Operator Weapon System Trainer. The BOWST is a fully‐simulated, large‐scale proce-dural trainer for aerial refueling with replicated aircraft systems, controls, and functions with-in a complete aircrew boom compartment.

A series of computer screens make it possi-ble for Boom Operator Weapon System Train-ing instructors to view trainee progress, se-lect weather conditions and aircraft, display geographical locations and much more. The realistic nature of the simulator is one of the distinguishing factors that make the BOWST such an integral training tool.

Photo by Staff Sgt. Brandon Shapiro

Photo by Staff Sgt. Brandon Shapiro

Background photo by Staff Sgt. Brandon Shapiro

PCSing overseas with a pet?The veterinary clinic needs to eval-

uate your pet at least six months be-fore you change to an overseas duty station. Some countries require ex-tra shots, vaccinations and a special tracking chip that the veterinary clin-ic must sign off on before your pet can travel with you overseas.

Please do not wait until the last minute to have your pet checked out, because your pet will not be allowed to travel with you. For more information call 828-3558 or 828-3559.

Help Us Celebrate HeritageJoin us at the 66th Annual Air

Force Ball Sept. 21 at the Hilton Tampa Downtown from 6 p.m. to 11 p.m. There will be a social hour, live band and a guest speaker. For more information, visit the website www.tampaairforceball.com.

BRIEFSFrom Page 6

Job Title: 6th Maintenance Squadron crew chief

Hometown: Battle Creek, Mich.

Short-term goals: I want to become a U.S. Air Force Surviv-al, Evasion, Resistance and Escape specialist and every day try to improve myself to become a better Airman and person.

Long-term goals: Ultimately I want to take my career as far as possible in the military - right now that is my main focus. I am still working on my goals - my life is consistently changing and I’m enjoying the ride.

Advice to others: Take what you can from the right people, other than that you need to make your own experiences and your own mistakes to be yourself. Role model and why: Senior Master Sgt. Carlos Chavez, Master Sgt. Alfons Hofrichter, and Staff Sgt. Christopher Ceaser are my role models. These three individuals have real-ly pushed, challenged and groomed me to be a better Airman.

Senior Airman Robert Gregory6th Maintenance Squadron

DIAMOND SHARP

ment and supplies remain adequately stocked to meet every request. This is because Airmen must be properly equipped to do their jobs. It is essential to be prepared to fully combat any situations that may present themselves.

“My job is important because without supply the Air Force could not be mission ready,” said Airman 1st Class Luis Gonzalez Velez, 6th LRS supply journeyman. “If we fail to meet customer needs, then the Air Force will not be able to meet mission requirements.”

SUPPLYFrom Page 3

Photo by Senior Airman Michael Ellis

Airman 1st Class Luis Gonzalezvelez, 6th Logistics Readiness Squad-ron, verifies serial numbers on equipment July 10, 2013, at MacDill Air Force Base

u Supervise children at all times. Not recommended for children under 6 years of age.

u Only allow one person to jump at a time, especially on rectangu-lar trampolines.

u Place the trampoline well away from trees, play areas and other structures and on level ground.

u Use adequate protective padding around the supporting bars, springs and surrounding landing surfaces.

u Use a safety net.u Make sure users jump in the center of the trampoline. u Somersaults or high-risk maneuvers should be avoided without

proper supervision and instruction. u Check the trampoline regularly for tears or wear and damage to

springs.

Injury Facts:

u Most injuries occur among children between 5 and 14, and when children are unsupervised by parents or adults.

u More than half of the injuries occur on the trampoline itself.u Two thirds of injuries involve two or more children using the

trampoline at the same time.u Use your common sense and good judgment.

Using your trampoline safely

ed,” said Santa Ana. “Because of it the local and MacDill communities were saved.”

“I’m very humbled,” said Himes after receiving his awards. “I’m just a driver who reacted like he was taught to do.”

(Editor’s note: Everyone is encouraged to stay alert whether at home, work or even while driving. Always keep an eagle eye out for suspicious behaviors. The Eagle Eyes program is an anti-terrorism initiative that enlists the eyes and ears of Air Force members and citizens in the lo-cal community against the war on terror. If you observe any suspicious activity, anytime during the day or night, you can call the MacDill AFB Defense Operations Center at 828-3322. For additional information con-tact Air Force Office of Special Investigations Detachment 340 at 828-4921, or email AFOSIDet340.cc@ogn.af.mil. However, any reporting of actual activity should go through the 6th Security Forces Squadron at 828-6322).

CABBIEFrom Page 8

Pirate’s Log: 25 July 2001

Tales from the Sixth: The first of three C 37A aircraft was delivered to the 310thAirlift Squadron at MacDill. These new command transport jets provided support forthe Unified Combatant Commands, most notably U.S. Central Command and U.S.Special Operations Command. Earlier in 2001, the 310th was resurrected at MacDillafter shutting down in 1999 at Howard Air Force Base, Panama – ten years afterparticipating in the operation that ousted Panamanian dictator Manuel Noriega. In2001, the squadron’s new commander, Lt. Col. Eden Murrie, became the first womanin sixth history to lead a flying squadron. Today, Brig. Gen. Murrie is the Director ofAir Force Services, Headquarters, U.S. Air Force. She is scheduled to retire next week.

Backpacks to school!The Airman & Family Readiness Center held its 3rd Annual Back to School Fair July 17. Twenty one military and civilian volunteers packed and gave out 536 backpacks filled with school supplies do-nated to the A&FRC. Thirty one agencies, such as Tinker Elementary School, Hillsborough county schools, family advocacy, the dental clinic and many others set up informational booths for patients and children to ask questions.

MACDILL COMMUNITYEVENTS

FridaySeaScapes Beach House

Friday Bash from 4-8 p.m. Bar snacks and drink specials. Guar-anteed $100 club card drawing, Bar Bingo - $1,000 jackpot, trivia and DJ. Family Fun Night starts at 5 p.m. Food and drink specials. $2-and-under menu items for kids. Kids activities. Free ice cream sundae bar (peanut free) with all meals.

Friday-SaturdaySeaScapes Summer Nights

Open 4-9 p.m. Evening dinner specials. Come relax and enjoy the view.

Saturday MacDill Lanes & Family Fun Center

Over 50’s Tournament at 1 p.m. $25 entry.

TuesdayMacDill Lanes & Family Fun Center

Brown Bag Lunch & Bowl from 11 a.m. – 1 p.m. Bring a lunch and bowl for $1.50 per game. Remind-er DFAC right across the street. Single Airman Bowl for free.

WednesdayBay Palms Golf Complex

Wednesday Night Scramble from 5-7 p.m. $20; $15 for AGF card holders. Two-person scram-ble. Includes golf, cart, food and drink after the round, and gift cer-tificates.

ThursdayBase Library

Children’s Summer Reading Program Wrap-up party at 10:30 a.m.

Protestant serviceSunday - 11 a.m. - Contemporary Service

Islamic serviceFriday - 1:30 p.m. - Muslim Prayer Service

Catholic servicesSaturday - 5:30 p.m. - Mass

Sunday - 9:30 a.m. - Mass

Monday-Wednesday - 12:10 p.m. Mass

Call the chapel at 828-3621 for more information or visit the chapel web siteat http://www.macdill.af.mil/macdillchapel.

CHAPEL SCHEDULE

Courtesy photo

always respecting them and acting in ways that maximize their dignity and autonomy. In other words, dignity, trust, and respect describe the sacred bond we have with each other as an Air Force family. It is the very basis of ethical behavior. It is also the core of the contract that our military has with the American people.

American families send their sons and daughters into the military, specifically the Air Force, because they believe that their children will be treated with fairness and respect as they learn to work in cohesive units able to defend the United States. Break that bond of trust and our “all-volunteer” force ceases to function properly (in terms of recruiting, retention and etc.). In this regard, the problem of sexual assault in our military goes to the very core of our character as a service and profes-sion. I hope you all will commit Col. DeThomas’ words to memory as I have.

That was a powerful and moving first day on the job. Since that day,

Chief Mazzone and I (as the two newest members of the wing lead-ership team) have had the privilege of visiting many of you at your squadrons and agencies. I know I speak for both of us when I say that we have been blown-away by the amazing professionalism and innova-tion of both the 6th Air Mobility Wing and 927th Air Refueling Wing. In nearly every office and shop on this installation, active duty and reserve Airmen work together, side-by-side and are indistinguishable in their professionalism and effectiveness. Team MacDill has taken total force integration to a level that I have never seen at any other base in our Air Force…truly impressive!

Cathy and I are looking forward to meeting you and your families as we become fully integrated into Team MacDill. As a new guy just hit-ting the ground, my first impression is incredibly positive. It is a true honor and privilege to work alongside you and to continue to fulfill our wing motto of “Parati Defendere”…Ready to Defend.

CORNERFrom Page 2

Visit the official MacDill Air Force Base website at www.macdill.af.mil