Patriotism, military make America greatextras.mysanantonio.com/lackland_talespinner/Tale... · deﬁ nitely don’t want to talk about, they want to shut their eyes to it,” said

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 • Vo l . 6 8 N o . 1 8 • M AY 6 , 2 0 1 1

A PUBL ICAT ION OF THE 502nd A IR BASE W ING – JO INT BASE SAN ANTONIO

INSIDECommentary 2

Recognition 6

What’s Happening 18

News & Features

Showtime for LPAG 3

Unique promotion 12

ED staff shines 13

Baseball tryouts 20

View the Talespinner online at www.lackland.af.mil

By John D. BanusiewiczAmerican Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON – An intelligence-driven U.S. operation in Pakistan killed al-Qaida leader Osama bin Laden Sunday, President Barack Obama announced in a nationally televised address from the White House late Sunday night.

“Today, at my direction, the United States launched a targeted operation against that compound in Abbottabad, Pakistan,” President Obama said. “A small team of Americans carried out the operation with

extraordinary courage and capability. No Americans were harmed. They took care to avoid civilian casualties. After a fi refi ght, they killed Osama bin Laden and took cus-tody of his body.”

President Obama noted that bin Laden had been al-Qaida’s leader and symbol for more than 20 years and continued to plot attacks against the United States and its allies.

“The death of bin Laden marks the most signifi cant achievement to date in our na-tion’s effort to defeat al-Qaida, yet his death does not mark the end of our effort,”

Obama said. “There is no doubt that al-Qaida will

continue to pursue attacks against us. Wemust, and we will, remain vigilant at homeand abroad.”

The president revealed that shortly aftertaking offi ce in January 2009, he orderedCIA Director Leon E. Panetta to make binLaden’s death or capture the top priority ofthe U.S. war against the al-Qaida terroristorganization.

“Then, last August, after years of pains-

Photo by William Belcher General William L. Shelton (left), Air Force Space Command commander, gives command of 24th Air Force to Maj. Gen. Suzanne M. Vautrinot dur-ing a ceremony at the Lackland Gateway Club April 29. General Vautrinot is responsible for the Air Force’s newest numbered Air Force providing combatant commanders with trained and ready cyber forces which plan and conduct cyberspace operations.

See bin Laden P9

TAKING COMMAND

US operation kills bin Laden

PAGE 2 TALESPINNER MAY 6, 2011

This newspaper is published by Prime Time Military Newspapers, a private fi rm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive writ-ten contract with Lackland AFB, Texas. This commercial enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military ser-vices. Contents of the Talespinner are not necessarily the offi cial views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, or the Depart-ment of the Air Force.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supple-ments, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the De-partment of the Air Force or Prime Time Military Newspapers, of the products or services advertised.

Everything advertised in this pub-lication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, na-tional origin, age, marital status, physi-cal handicap, political affi liation, or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.

Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Offi ce of the 502nd Air Base Wing. All photos, unless otherwise indicated, are U.S. Air Force photos.

Deadline for submissionsis noon Thursday the week prior

to publication.

Offi ce:1701 Kenly Ave. Suite 102Lackland AFB, Texas78236-5103(210) 671-1786;(fax) 671-2022E-mail: [email protected]’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

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

COMMENTARY

Patriotism, military make America greatBy Leo OliverGuest commentary

I saw what America needs.I recently came to Lackland to see my

grandson graduate from basic military training.

I saw what America needs: fl ag wav-ing, saluting, discipline, patriotic music, placing your hand over your heart when the national anthem plays and standing at attention during the ceremony.

I saw what America needs: pride in our military men and women and

respect for the offi cers and training instructors.

I saw what America needs: to walk the streets of San Antonio with a young man or woman in uniform and have strangers come to shake their hand, congratulate them and thank them for their service.

I saw what America needs: the pride and respect for our military, our fl ag, our people in uniform and our country.

I saw what America needs. Everyone should visit a military town or base to see and feel the pride we all should have for this country.

I saw what America needs. I saw young people with baggy jeans, tattoos and piercings stand at attention and re-move their hats when the fl ag and their friend or family member marched by.

I saw what America needs. We need the news media to promote our fl ag, our country and patriotism. I believe it is still in our hearts; it just needs to be brought back in the open and promoted daily by our schools and our govern-ment.

God bless America and our service people who protect us.

Courtesy photo Basic trainees carry state fl ags during their graduation ceremony at Lackland. More than 30,000 Airmen complete Basic Military Training every year, learn-ing basic war skills, military discipline, drill and ceremonies, Air Force core values and a comprehensive range of subjects relating to Air Force life.

COMMANDER’S ACTION LINE To submit an Action Line, e-

mail the Lackland Public Affairs Offi ce at [email protected]. For concerns regarding the Wilford Hall Medical Center, contact the Wilford Hall Action Line at 292-4567, or e-mail your request to [email protected].

For questions or issues about Air Force basic training, e-mail

your request to [email protected].

The Action Line is your direct path for addressing issues if you have been unable to resolve them through your chain of com-mand or the appropriate respon-sible agency. It also allows you to provide feedback and recognize outstanding people and units.

If you leave your name and

telephone number or e-mail ad-dress, you will receive a reply.

Your contact information al-lows us to obtain more informa-tion, if needed, to help resolve your problem.

Items of general interest may be printed in the Lackland Talespinner.

Anonymous inquiries will not be published.

By Mike JosephStaff Writer

The Lackland Performing Arts Group will raise the curtain during the next two weekends for its latest production, “The Girl In The Mirror,” at Arnold Hall Community Center.

Performances of “The Girl In The Mirror,” an original Bruce Jacoby play about a dying 17-year-old girl’s thoughts as she lies comatose in a hos-pital bed from an attempted suicide, are May 13-14 and May 20-21.

The script addresses depression, suicide, and how easily people can misunderstand one another with tragic results. The performances are not recommended for children under age 15.

“It’s a subject matter that people defi nitely don’t want to talk about, they want to shut their eyes to it,” said Airman 1st Class Trisha Olson, the play’s director. “We’re hoping this can be a way to open them up a bit.

“We’re really focused on (deliver-ing) the message, 'You need to think

twice before trying to commit suicide.' Life may be hard right now, but in the end you’re hurting the people around you, not just yourself.”

Airman Olson said the main char-acter doesn’t realize how much she is loved by those around her and the effect her death would have on them. It presents an outside perspective on

suicide and the family.“It’s a really dark subject matter

but it needs to be told,” she said. “It’s uncomfortable for me to talk about it. It’s uncomfortable for people to hear about it. I thought it’s exactly the kind of thing I want to do: tackle a subject nobody wants to talk about.”

Airman Olson directs a cast of 14, plus fi ve extras. Nine other members make up the stage crew, including sound and lighting. The all-volunteer group has spent the last 2½ months rehearsing while also designing and building the set.

The play is the second of four pro-ductions scheduled this year. Follow-ing “The Girl In The Mirror,” auditions begin for a September musical to be selected by the group.

“We have a lot of fun,” said Tracy Parmer, LPAG president. “It’s all vol-unteer, free to join and an activity for military members.

“Anyone with base access can join: dependent, spouse, civilian or con-tractor. Whatever your talent is, we’ll fi nd a way to use it.”

ENTRY POINT DELAYS

Persons entering Lackland should anticipate delays at all entry points with the increased Force Protection Condition.

Police offi cers at all gates are conducting 100 percent identifi cation checks in the el-evated FPCON. Additionally, trusted traveler access policies have been suspended until further notice.

For installation access, a Common Access Card (CAC), Teslin card, Defense Biometric Identifi cation System (DBIDS) card or pass are required. Tenant organization ID badges are not valid installation access credentials.

Registration into DBIDS is available at the Pass and Registration offi ce in Bldg. 5616, Room 109, 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., or a visitor reception center during non-duty hours, weekends or holidays.

MOTHER'S DAY BRUNCH

Mother’s Day brunch on Sunday at the Gateway Club begins at 10:30 a.m. and con-tinues until 3 p.m.

Meal prices include mothers, $15.95; club members, BMT graduates and their guests, $17.95; non-club members, $20.95; children ages 6-12, $9.95; and under age 5, free.

For information, call 645-7034 or visit www.lacklandfss.com.

PARENTING ORDER LEGAL CLINIC

A free parenting order legal clinic for military parents by the Offi ce of the Attorney General of Texas is Wednesday, noon to 1:30 p.m., at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.

The clinics are for military parents who have questions about their legal rights as parents, problems seeing or locating their children, changing their visitation plan, etc.

Family law attorneys and representatives from the Offi ce of the Attorney General of Texas will be available to discuss common questions and concerns. For details, contact the Lackland Legal Offi ce at 671-3362.

CARING FOR PEOPLE FORUM

The Lackland Integrated Service Delivery team’s “Caring for People” forum is Tuesday, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at the Gateway Club.

Military members, civilians, spouses, chil-dren and retirees are needed to help identify quality of life issues that impact Airmen and their families. The discussion groups will make recommendations to improve quality of life at Lackland and in the Air Force.

For information, contact Capt. Daniel Cassidy.

NewsBRIEFS

MAY 6, 2011 TALESPINNER PAGE 3

Photo by Robbin CresswellMembers of the Lackland Performing Arts Group, from left, Staff Sgt. Brandon Smith, Airman 1st Class Erika Salmons, Senior Airman Jen-nifer Hardin and Rebekah Chandler, rehearse for their production of “The Girl In The Mirror” at Arnold Hall Community Center April 28.

LPAG set to take center stage‘The Girl In The Mirror’

When: 7 p.m., May 13-14, May 20-21Where: Arnold Hall Community CenterTickets: General admission, $15; age 65 and over, $10; technical training students, $5. Price includes light hors d’oeuvres; cash bar.

Tables available for 2-8 per-sons, call 671-2619.

Not recommended for chil-dren under age 15.


By Bekah A. Clark12th Flying Training Wing

RANDOLPH – An Airman assigned to the 12th Flying Training Wing was killed April 27 in Kabul, Afghani-stan, when a shooter opened fi re at the Kabul Internation-al Airport, killing eight U.S. servicemembers and one con-tractor.

Maj. Jeff Ausborn, a 99th Flying Training Squadron in-structor pilot, was deployed to the 438th Air Expedition-ary Wing, where he served as a C-27 Spartan instructor pilot.

The 19-year Air Force vet-eran and native of Gadsden, Ala., died of wounds sustained in the shooting. He was 41.

“The loss of Jeff is devas-tating not only to the squad-ron, but the wing as well. He has served our wing and his nation honorably,” said Col.

Richard Murphy, the 12th FTW commander. “Our hearts and prayers go out to Jeff's family and to the families of those affected by this terrible act.”

According to his wife, Su-zanna Ausborn, Major Aus-born volunteered in 2010 to deploy to Afghanistan to teach new Afghan pilots to fl y the C-27.

He was in a meeting when the attack occurred.

“He was the most compas-sionate, kind, patient and un-derstanding husband, father, pilot and supervisor,” she said.

“He was a great communi-cator; we talked nearly every day.

“That’s how I knew some-thing was wrong; I didn't hear from him. I miss him so much.”

Major Ausborn is survived by his wife and fi ve children.

Randolph pilot killed in Afghanistan

Courtesy photo Maj. Jeff Ausborn was killed April 27 when a shooter opened fi re at Kabul International Air-port killing eight U.S. service members and one contractor.

Congratulations to the following 72 Airmen for being selected as honor graduates among 722 trainees graduating today:

320th Training SquadronFlight 339Brendan BroussardJohn GroatPeter KrainesRogelio NaranjaMatthew NelsonChad TurkoEstevan VasquezKevin VellaKeith WarnerJoey ZwackFlight 340Krista AbernethyChristina CharlesFlight 339Brendan BroussardJohn GroatPeter KrainesRogelio NaranjaMatthew NelsonChad TurkoEstevan VasquezKevin Vella

Keith WarnerJoey ZwackFlight 340Krista AbernethyChristina Charles

321st Training SquadronFlight 317Elisha JohnsonRobert McClungSean MinnisThomas RobinsonFlight 318Jesse DunsmoreBrian GarciaJacob PetersonDaniel RakowskiRobert ReboucheChad Shinn

322nd Training SquadronFlight 313Robert CastanonDoroteo GaribayMario HarperMichael HodgeAustin MarshThomas PenningtonCleveland RobinsonTheodore Souza

Jacob TilleyFlight 314Tyanna ChurchAnna DonovanStevi LauKirsten LuebrechtLaura ParkerAlexis SamloffDeidre Spoor

323rd Training SquadronFlight 315Joel AdrianceScott Benefi eldJoseph BubeckTailon DowJason EmerichFlight 316Jeremiah ArnettMarc NettlesChristopher O’ConnorEvan Schrader

324th Training SquadronFlight 335Tyler HamerLino MelaraJake VerheyenJonathan WhiteFlight 336

Ashley BoppAlicia Braun

326th Training SquadronFlight 333Aaron EldridgeJames HammerlingJerad OliverFlight 334Brent FordLloyd FrederickMatthew GalvasMatthew HuberRichard SchorlingChristopher Tindall

331st Training SquadronFlight 337Joshua EscobarLevi GarnerShane Harris-CapuanoJohn KingNathan MarionKyle RiceNuri StephenDavid WineFlight 338Stephen CulbertsonDillen Stuhlsatz

Top BMT AirmanJoel Adriance, 323rd TRS, Flight 315

Most Physically FitMale AirmenJoey Zwack, 320th TRS, Flight 339 Rogelio Naranja, 320th TRS, Flight 339Matthew Salim, 320th TRS, Flight 339Mathew Guajardo, 320th TRS, Flight 339Female AirmenNatalie Showalter, 324th TRS, Flight 336 Janelle Ward, 322nd TRS, Flight 314 Male Flights331st TRS, Flight 337320th TRS, Flight 339Female Flights324th TRS, Flight 336322nd TRS, Flight 314

Top Academic Flights322nd TRS, Flight 313321st TRS, Flight 318


BMT HONORS

Courtesy photo Master Sgt. Alucia Davis (middle), 37th Training Support Squadron, receives the Lackland Chiefs’ Group Look Sharp award April 19 in recognition of her outstanding job as the fl ight chief for the 37th Airman Transition Assistance Flight. Robert Rubio (left), 37th Training Wing character development program manager, and Chief Master Sgt. Brenda Massey, 37th Training Group, presented the award.

LOOKING SHARP

Col. William R. Buhler: 59th Dental Training SquadronDate assumed command: May 4Previous assign-ment: Military Consultant for Pe-diatric Dentistry to the Air Force Surgeon General, 59th Dental Train-ing SquadronTime in Service: 25 yearsFamily: Five children and one grandsonHobbies: Outdoor recre-ationWhy the squadron is im-portant to the Air Force mission: The 238-member squadron is the Air Force fl agship for dental educa-tion and specialty consul-tation. The squadron is a referral center, providing compre-hensive oral and maxil-lofacial healthcare while

conducting origi-nal research. The tri-service staff ensure worldwide dental readiness and advanced training, conduct-ing six residency, two fellowships and 66 weeks of continuing educa-tion courses for

offi cers and enlist-ed members.

Command philosophy: A common sense approach to meeting both the Air Force’s and the squadron members’ needs in order to accomplish our readiness, dental training and deploy-ment missionsGoals for new position: To continue the 59th DTS’s 55-year history of providing world class dental residen-cy training while developing leaders who will mentor the future generations of our Air Force Dental Service.

Col. William R. Buhler


75%75%


AMIGO picnic treats DLI students and staff to local culture

Be Responsible!

Seat Belts

Save Lives!

Buckle Up And

Wear Yours!

~ Mi casa es su casa ~

Photo by Robbin Cresswell Above, Mariachi Las Coronelas, an all-female Mariachi band, performs during the Defense Lan-guage Institute English Language Center’s annual AMIGO picnic on April 29. The event offered free food and featured games, sports, music and children’s activities. At right, Frank Lawrence, DLIELC, gets splashed by a water balloon during the AMIGO picnic at Stillman Park.

About 875 people attended the annual Defense Language Institute English Lan-guage Center AMIGO picnic April 29 at Stillman Park. The American Members of International Good-will to Others spon-sorship program ac-quaints international students with Ameri-can society, customs and culture.


taking work by our intelligence com-munity, I was briefed on a possible lead to bin Laden. It was far from certain, and it took many months to run this thread to ground,” he said.

The president said he met repeat-edly with his national security team as information developed indicating bin Laden was at a compound in Paki-stan, and that last week he determined enough information was available and authorized the operation.

The president emphasized that the war against al-Qaida is not a war against Islam.

“Bin Laden was not a Muslim lead-er,” he said.

“He was a mass murderer of Mus-lims. Indeed, al-Qaida has slaughtered scores of Muslims in many countries, including our own. So his demise should be welcomed by all who believe in peace and human dignity.”

Counterterrorism cooperation with Pakistan helped in fi nding bin Laden and the compound where he was hid-ing, the president said.

“Indeed, bin Laden had declared war against Pakistan as well, and or-dered attacks against the Pakistani

people. Tonight, I called [Pakistani] President [Asif Ali] Zardari, and my team has also spoken with their Paki-stani counterparts. They agree that this is a good and historic day for both of our nations, and going forward, it is essential that Pakistan continue to join us in the fi ght against al-Qaida and its affi liates.”

The president praised those who worked to fi nd bin Laden and those who carried out the operation that killed him.

“Tonight, we give thanks to the countless intelligence and counterter-rorism professionals who’ve worked tirelessly to achieve this outcome,” he said.

“The American people do not see their work, nor know their names. But tonight, they feel the satisfaction of their work and the result of their pursuit of justice.

“We give thanks for the men who carried out this operation,” he contin-ued, “for they exemplify the profes-sionalism, patriotism, and unparal-leled courage of those who serve our country. And they are part of a genera-tion that has borne the heaviest share of the burden since that September day.”

bin Laden from P1


Edwards Aquifer Levelin feet above sea level

Normal - above 660’

Stage I - 660’

Stage II - 650’

Stage III - 642’

Stage IV - 640.5’

Stage V - 637’

CURRENT LEVEL* = 654.2’*determines Joint Base San Antonio water conservation stage


By Mike JosephStaff Writer

A Joint Base San Antonio military couple found a creative way to over-come the separation of 8,113 miles and a 9½-hour time difference to share a major event in their lives.

The use of modern computer technol-ogy at the Airman and Family Readiness Center enabled Capt. Teresa Hernandez to preside over her husband’s April 29 promotion to master sergeant.

In a computer room at the AFRC early that morning, Tech. Sgt. Joe Hernandez, a 319th Training Squadron Military Training Instructor, reaffi rmed the oath of enlistment via Skype to his wife, who is deployed to Kandahar Air Base, Af-ghanistan.

Three 319th TRS leaders – Senior Master Sgt. Warren Rosebrough, fi rst sergeant; Master Sgt. Sean Naglic, a training superintendent; and Capt. Troy Lane, director of operations – stood be-side Sergeant Hernandez while he re-peated the oath back to his wife as she watched and listened via computer from Afghanistan, and vice versa.

“I’m so excited and proud to do this from Kandahar,” Captain Hernandez said, concluding with, “congratulations, Master Sgt. Hernandez. I’m so excited: hug, hug, kiss, kiss.”

“Talk to you tonight,” replied her hus-band. “I’ve got to get to work.”

The Lackland obstacle course fl ight chief was just beginning his work day while his wife was completing hers as Defense Logistics Agency offi cer in charge at Kandahar. Captain Hernandez had been activated from her Reserve DLA assignment at Fort Sam Houston.

Since the February deployment, Cap-tain Hernandez has called their home daily through Skype, a computer soft-ware application that permits video conferencing through a secure Internet connection, as the sun is going down in San Antonio while rising in Kandahar.

“Teresa gets to talk to our boys every single day,” Sergeant Hernandez said. “She normally calls about 8 o’clock, which is 5:30 in the morning there.

“Technology is great. It’s not the same as being here, but it’s pretty close. It’s the next best thing.”

Sergeant Hernandez said it was his wife, installation deployment offi cer at Randolph Air Force Base in her civil-

ian job, who suggested using the AFRC service.

“She was upset she wasn’t going to be part of the promotion,” Sergeant Her-nandez said. “She used to work in family readiness and knew AFRC had Skype. I thought it made a lot of sense.”

The couple is also grateful to the Lackland AFRC for their assistance in making a special occasion even more unique.

“We wouldn’t have been able to do this if it weren’t for them,” Captain Her-nandez said. “I’m so glad I got this op-portunity.”

“To do a promotion with my wife (while she’s in Afghanistan) is special,” Sergeant Hernandez said. “She’s done my re-enlistments, and I’m fortunate she could pin on my master sergeant stripe. The AFRC was awesome. It’s a great service they provide.”

For more information about pro-grams and services available to families of deployed military members, call the Airman and Family Readiness Center at 671-3722.

Skype brings JBSA couple together for promotion

Photo by Robbin CresswellTech. Sgt. Joe Hernandez, 319th Training Squadron, reaffi rms the oath of enlistment via Skype to his wife, Capt. Teresa Hernandez, Defense Logistics Agency offi cer in charge at Kandahar Air Base, Afghanistan, during his promotion ceremony April 29 at the Airman and Family Readi-ness Center. Sergeant Hernandez was promoted to master sergeant.

AFRC offers family support during deploymentPersonal and family readiness provides mobility and deployment assis-

tance to help single and married Department of Defense personnel and families meet pre-deployment, sustainment, reintegration, and post-deploy-ment challenges.

Family Readiness Briefi ng – Class held every Monday to help prepare for military separations. Spouses welcome.

Hearts Apart – Family members are authorized to make one free 15-min-ute phone call per week using DSN lines from their home. Deploying mem-bers must fi rst register for this program

Give Parents A Break – Sponsored by the AFAS, free child care certifi cates are issued to families separated by deployments or remote assignments. Child care is provided by the base CDC facilities on a monthly basis.

Car Care Because We Care – Sponsored by the AFAS, a $30 voucher will issued for an oil/fi lter change for spouses of active duty Air Force members deployed for more than 30 days or on remote assignment

Reunion and Reintegration Support – Classes held every Monday to help families return to a state of normalcy.

Webcam Service – Webcams are available for use by families separated due to assignment. Service must be used in the resource room within the facility and may not be taken home. Service is provided on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis.


By Maj. Nancy A. Eastman59th Emergency Medical Squadron

In a collaborative effort to provide the best patient services possible, se-nior leaders of the 59th Emergency Medical Squadron are redesigning care processes and at the same time imple-menting morale enhancing strategies that foster a culture of collaboration and cohesiveness.

Col. (Dr.) Linda Lawrence, 59th EMDS commander, honored Capt. Nelanette Clemmons, an emergency department nurse, and Staff Sgt. Thomas Nance, ED administrative clerk, at a recent com-mander’s call, in tribute to the squad-ron’s “Green Box” Outstanding Leader-ship/Team Player Recognition Award.

In March, Lt. Col. Richard Conte, 59th Emergency Operations Flight commander, honored Capt. Jasmine Cook, ED nurse, and Airman 1st Class Gina Calcaterra, medical technician. Each individual received accolades for performing outstanding leadership and team player clinical skills.

The 59th EMDS recently spearhead-ed the “Green Box” recognition pro-gram which describes a staff member’s achievement, task, or job performance, giving special gratitude to individuals who exceed standards of care and/or strive to improve customer service.

“A recognition program does not have to be expensive,” said Maj. Er-icka Hooper, Emergency Operations Element leader. “An effective recogni-tion program comprises fairness, high visibility and consistency.”

The ED physicians, nurses, techni-cians, and administration clerks are staffed and equipped to provide a wide range of services that can take care of all Lackland military members and their dependents. Many times the ED is the front door or the primary entry point for their healthcare needs during an emergency crisis.

The daily experience of an emergency healthcare worker can bring a unique combination of physical and emotional challenges such as long hours, large numbers of sick and sometimes dif-fi cult patients, and one of the worse scenarios, the death of a child.

“Based on our unique mission, it is sometimes diffi cult to see the positivity in the work place,” said Capt. Belinda Conti, ED charge nurse. “Top priorities

include giving our hard-working people a boost in morale while producing sig-nifi cant gains in patient fl ow.”

Operational effi ciency is dependent on decreasing lengths of stay and en-hancing patient fl ow in the ED. Meeting the needs of patients requires leaders of healthcare personnel to get it right in terms of patient and staff satisfaction.

“Positive attitudes are the only way to press forward in order to meet mis-sion needs,” said Capt. Cook, a March 2011 recipient of the Outstanding Pre-ceptor Award given from the Critical Care/Emergency Nursing Fellowship Class.

The Critical Care/Emergency Nurs-ing Fellowship Class is taught at both Wilford Hall and Brooke Army Medi-cal Centers, preparing nurses to work in critical care areas and to attain the skills to be deployed. The 59th EMDS also demonstrates a commitment in im-proving healthcare through an ongoing process of the Air Force Smart Opera-tions of the 21st Century, or AFSO21,

program.One phase is to guarantee that ser-

vices are closely synchronized while implementing the Lean Six Sigma concepts, a well-known approach for achieving operational excellence.

The ED staff continues to improve the fl ow of patients on a daily basis, so they do not experience unnecessary waits as they streamline through a mili-tary healthcare system.

“Bottom line, the process is a day-by-day routine in which good service is based on the patient,” said Capt. Keith Smith, ED nurse.

Changes are fast approaching in how Wilford Hall will provide urgent and emergency care to eligible mili-tary medical benefi ciaries in the San Antonio area. Beginning July 1, Wilford Hall will close its emergency depart-ment and re-designate the area as an urgent care center, or UCC. The urgent care center will be able to perform ba-sic X-rays and lab work and dispense prescriptions.

“The Wilford Hall UCC will be staffed by physicians, physician assistants, nurses and technicians,” said Capt. Edgar Miller, ED nurse. “People with sore throats or twisted ankles will have a place to go on Lackland to be treated.”

Air Force emergency medicine pro-fessionals will be working alongside their Army counterparts in the only remaining military ED in San Antonio, the San Antonio Military Medical Cen-ter ED at Fort Sam Houston. By com-bining positivity with great leaders and team players, the 59th EMDS makes a strong case for getting it right, in terms of personal accountability and provid-ing practical strategies for supporting staff in a positive way.

“The ED at Wilford Hall Medical Center remains among the top military treatment facilities in the world, valued for their contributions to providing the highest quality patient care accompa-nied with compassion and trust,” Major Hooper said.

ED staff pays it forward

Photo by Staff Sgt. Robert BarnettCapt. (Dr.) Joseph Sontgerath (top center) leads a resuscitation team working on a patient in the trauma section of the Wilford Hall Medical Cen-ter Emergency Department April 13. Dr. Sontgerath is an emergency medicine resident assigned to the 59th Emergency Medical Squadron.


CELEBRATING ARBOR DAY

Photo by Robbin Cresswell Lt. Col. Kara Neuse (right), 802nd Mission Support Group deputy commander, and Lackland children celebrate Arbor Day by planting a tree at the youth center April 29. Lackland has been observing the Arbor Day tradition since its designation as a Tree City USA community by the National Arbor Day Foundation in 1993.

LACKLAND VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES

Volunteerism makes Lackland a better place to live and work.

Whether you are an enlisted member, offi cer, spouse, retiree or

teen, help Lackland improve quality of life for everyone. If you

have a few free hours each week, please consider volunteering

in our community.

• The Airman’s Attic – Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 2

p.m. Call Master Sgt. Stacy Grice, 6395-9894.

• CAMP (Children’s Association for Maximum Potential) – Vol-

unteers, 14 and older, assist with Special Needs, Parents Night

Out and Respite Weekends. Call Sarah Colume, 671-5229. (www.

campcamp.org)

• Lackland Fisher House – Volunteers, 16 and older or younger

when accompanied by a parent, assist the retiree community with

a range of needs. Call Cathy Guertin, 671-6029. (www.

fi sherhouseinc.org)

• Lackland Thrift Shop – Monday through Wednesday and the fi rst

Saturday of the month, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Call 671-3608.


Planning workshop charts future of JBSABy Steve ElliotFSH Public Affairs

Military and civilian leaders from the 502nd Air Base Wing, Fort Sam Houston, and Lackland and Randolph Air Force Bases gathered recently for a strategic planning workshop to chart the future of Joint Base San Antonio.

The workshop – conducted as part of the ongoing process for the JBSA In-tegrated Master Plan – was held April 25 through 27 at the City Public Ser-vice Energy Management and Training Center.

A diverse group of decision-makers from the Joint Base Partnership Coun-cil, including major mission partners and mission support group command-ers, worked with professional facilita-

tors and physical planners to craft a vision for JBSA – today and into the future.

“The reason for the workshop was to start developing a vision of what JBSA might look like in 2030,” said Col. Mary Garr, 502nd Mission Sup-port Group commander. “The 502nd Air Base Wing brought in some com-munity partners, including CPS Energy, San Antonio Water System, Defense Transformation Institute, City of San Antonio International and Economic Development and others to interact with leaders at FSH, Lackland, and Randolph at a CPS hosted ice-breaker April 25.

“In small and large group forums held on April 26 and 27, the attendees had a chance to discuss opportunities

and potential future paths for JBSA, some of them locally driven and others based on future DOD policy and infra-structure,” Colonel Garr added.

“We are in the early stages of a 16-month process of building a mas-ter plan for Joint Base San Antonio that will set the stage for shaping our future,” said Debra Harkiewicz, 502nd ABW Director of Civil Engineering. “In these meetings, we were able to high-light the important things our mission partners need to do their missions into the future.”

The workshop also included break-out exercise sessions for groups from the three installations to envision where their respective bases would be in 2030 and talk about how they would get to that point.

Since the 502nd ABW and JBSA came into full operational capability in October 2010, the workshop held a special immediacy in the context of multiple ongoing strategic efforts.

“There are more meetings planned in the next 16 months where we will bring in even more of our mission part-

ners, as well as leaders from the local community and the private sector,” Ms. Harkiewicz said. “There are a lot of commonalities in what we want to achieve such as operational effi cien-cies, energy conservation, and fi nding better ways to conduct business.”

The master plan will establish the framework for decision-making with regard to the future development of JBSA, incorporating elements such as operational, environmental, urban planning and quality of life.

“This workshop is an initial step in future strategic planning across JBSA,” Colonel Garr said. “It will be valuable as it pulls together all major mission partners in helping to develop strategic installation support planning and op-portunities.”

The project will help in developing a web-based comprehensive Installation Master Plan and Capital Investment Plan for JBSA. This plan will address the relationships between the installa-tions and the functional areas within to integrate them into a comprehensive long-term regional plan.


COMMUNITY

THRIFT SHOP BAG SALE

The Lackland Thrift Shop bag sale is Saturday, 9:30 p.m. Proceeds benefi t military-affi liated charities and scholarships to military high school students and spouses.

The Lackland Offi cers’ Spouses’ Club will present $17,000 in scholarships at an awards reception Thursday at the Gateway Club.

For more information, call 671-3600 or visit www.lacklandosc.org.

TALENT CONTEST REGISTRATION

A family and teen talent contest is Saturday, 6:30 p.m., at Arnold Hall Community Center.

The contest features solo, group or family acts, ages 6 to adult. Admission is free.

For more information, call 671-2619.

ECAC COURSE DATES

The Evasion and Conduct After Capture (ECAC) course at Lackland is open to qualifi ed students to at-tend a 40-hour course. Course dates are Tuesday through May 13, May

17-20 and May 31-June 3. Students must have their supervi-

sor’s permission, be world-wide deployable and hold a current secret clearance.

For more information or to regis-ter, contact Tech. Sgt. James Davis at 671-0280.

Information is also available on ECAC page through the Air Force portal.

CHAPEL SETS MARRIAGE RETREAT

Lackland Chapel marriage care is sponsoring a free marriage retreat May 13-15 at the Mayan Dude Ranch in Bandera.

Priority placement for the work-shop will be given to Airmen who are preparing to deploy, or who have returned from deployment in the past year. Limited child care is also available.

For more information, call Free-dom Chapel at 671-4208.

CLASSIFIED ASSETS REGISTRATION

Equipment and supply custodians who receive classifi ed assets who

remain the standard asset supply system can still register into enter-prise solution-supply (ES-S).

Self registration instructions are available at https://www.my.af.mil/gcss-ess/ess/admin/user/access/useraccess/index.shtml. Completed customer information should be e-mailed to 802nd Logistics Readi-ness Squadron customer service at [email protected] or the [email protected] inbox.

For questions, contact 802nd LRS customer service at 671-3801, 671-3611 or 671-2575.

PREGNANCY PROFILE REQUIREMENT All expectant active duty and

civilian women working at Lackland are required to obtain a pregnancy profi le within fi ve duty days of a positive pregnancy test.

In addition to duty and mobility restrictions, the individual’s worksite will be evaluated for any physical or chemical hazards that could affect the mother or the fetus. Research has shown some chemicals and ex-posure to toxic materials are harmful

to the developing fetus. Work restrictions may be neces-

sary to protect the mother’s and the fetus’ health. Supervisors are responsible for ensuring that military and civilian employees comply with fetal protection program require-ments, and must provide training that makes them aware of this program.

Expectant mothers must visit the Public Health Offi ce in the Reid Health Services Center, Bldg. 6612, Room 420. For more information, contact Staff Sgt. Jennifer Bynum at 671-9667 or 671-3605.

ENDODONTIC PROGRAM SEEKS PATIENTS

The MacKown Dental Clinic Endodontic Residency Program seeks patients who need root canal therapy treatment.

Applicants must be a military retiree, retiree family member or active-duty family member, and have recently been diagnosed by a dentist with an endodontic condition requir-ing root canal therapy.

Eligible patients should obtain

a written consultation from their referring dentist. It can be brought to MacKown Dental Clinic or faxed to 292-6431 during normal duty hours. Patients will be selected for treatment based on the needs of the endodontic training program.

For information, call 292-7831.

AF SERVICES SCHOLARSHIPS

Air Force Services will give away 25 $1,000 scholarships this year to current Air Force club members and their family members. Family members include spouse, dependent children or step-children, and depen-dent grandchildren of club members who have been accepted or are enrolled for the fall 2011 semester as a full or part-time student in an accredited college or university.

Scholarships are awarded for the essay contest topic “My Contribution(s) to the Air Force.”

Rules, eligibility and applications are available at the Gateway and Kelly Clubs or www.afclubs.net.

The submission deadline is July 1. For more information, call 645-7034.

LocalBRIEFS

Air Force Aid Society 671-3722Airman & Family Readiness Center 671-3722Airman’s Attic 671-1780Base Post Offi ce 671-1058Bowling Center 671-2271DEERS 800-538-9552Exceptional Family Member Program 671-3722Family Child Care 671-3376Legal Offi ce 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 Offi cers’ Spouses’ Club www.lacklandosc.orgLackland Public website www.lackland.af.milMy Air Force Life www.MyAirForceLife.com

KEY FAMILY SUPPORT RESOURCES CHAPEL SERVICES Christian

CatholicTuesday-Friday:Freedom ChapelDaily Eucharist, 11:30 a.m.

Wilford Hall ChapelMass, 11 a.m

Saturday:Freedom ChapelEucharist, 5:30 p.m.Reconciliation after Eucharist

Sunday:Freedom ChapelReligious Ed., 9 a.m.Eucharist, 11 a.m.

Wilford Hall ChapelMass, 3 p.m.

OrthodoxSunday:

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

ProtestantSaturday:Gateway ChapelSeventh-Day AdventistService, 12:30 - 2:30 p.m.

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

Freedom ChapelContemporary Service,9:30 a.m.Gospel Service,12:30 p.m.Children’s ChurchprovidedReligious Ed., 11 a.m.Wednesday and Thursday:Bible Study, 6 p.m.

Sunday:Gateway ChapelThe Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints12:30 - 2:30 p.m.

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

IslamicFriday:Defense LanguageInstituteStudent CenterFaith Study, 1:30 p.m.Jummah Prayer, 1:30-2:30 p.m.Sunday:Religious Ed., 9 a.m.-11 a.m.

JewishFriday:Airmen Memorial ChapelSabbath Eve Service,5:45 p.m.

Religious Ed., 4:30 p.m.

Wicca1st Wednesday:Freedom Chapel Room 8,San Antonio Military Open Circle, 6 p.m.

BuddistSunday:BMT Reception Center,10 a.m. - noon.

For more information,contact the chapel staff:

Freedom Chapel • 671-4208

Gateway Chapel • 671-2911

Hope Chapel • 671-2941

WHMC Chapel • 292-7373


MAY 9RETURN AND REUNION SEMINAR

A return and reunion seminar is Monday, 2:30-3:30 p.m., at the Air-man and Family Readiness Center.

The seminar is an informal forum about the stress families and individuals experience during their separation.


MAY 10PRE-SEPARATION RETIREES’ CLASS

A mandatory counseling class for pre-separation retirees is Tuesday, 9-11 a.m., at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.

Attendees will be briefed about benefi ts and services.


DISABILITY TAP SEMINAR

A disability transition assistance program seminar is Tuesday, 11 a.m. to noon, at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.

The seminar provides separating or retiring personnel with information on the criteria and benefi ts to be considered a disabled veteran.


FEDERAL EMPLOYMENT SEMINAR

A seminar on “How to Apply for Federal Employment” is Tuesday, 1-3 p.m., at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.

The class teaches participants how to enhance the job-hunting process.


PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL

Protestant Women of the Chapel meets for Bible study Tuesday, 10 a.m., at Freedom Chapel with children ministry during the meeting.

For more details, call 671-4208.

MAY 11FIRST DUTY STATION CLASS

A mandatory offi cer’s fi rst duty

station personal fi nance management class is Wednesday, 8-10:30 a.m., at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. For more information, call 671-3722.

PARENTING ORDER LEGAL CLINIC

The Offi ce of the Attorney General of Texas will host a free parenting order legal clinic for military parents

Wednesday, noon to 1:30 p.m., at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.

For more information, contact the Lackland Legal Offi ce at 671-3362.

MAY 12RESUME WRITING CLASS

A class on writing an effective resume is Thursday, 1-3 p.m., at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.


PROTESTANT WOMEN OF THE CHAPEL

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


MAY 13TROOPS TO TEACHERS SEMINAR

A Troops to Teachers coordinator will present a “Teaching as a Second Career” seminar May 13, 1-3 p.m., at the Airmen and Family Readiness Center.

Troops to Teachers is a Depart-ment of Defense program designed to help eligible service members begin a teaching career in public schools.

For more information or to regis-ter, call 671-3722.

MAY 16RETURN AND REUNION SEMINAR

A return and reunion seminar is May 16, 2:30-3:30 p.m., at the Air-

man and Family Readiness Center.The seminar is an informal

forum about the stress families and individuals experience during their separation.


MAY 17PRE-PREPARATION RETIREES' CLASS

A mandatory counseling class for pre-separation retirees is May 17, 9-11 a.m., at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.

Attendees will be briefed about benefi ts and services.


DISABILITY TAP SEMINAR

A disability transition assistance program seminar is May 17, 11 a.m. to noon, at the Airman and Family Readiness Center.

The seminar provides separating or retiring personnel with information on the criteria and benefi ts to be considered a disabled veteran.


What’s Happening � � Family Support Events

WWW.LACKLANDFSS.COM

MONTHLY MEETINGSENLISTED SPOUSES’ CLUB

The Lackland Enlisted Spouses’ Club meets every third Tuesday of the month at the AFRC, Bldg. 1249. For more information, visit www.lacklandesc.org.

OFFICERS’ SPOUSES’ CLUB

The Lackland Offi cers’ Spouses’ Club meets every third Tuesday of the month at the Kelly Club. For more information, visit www.lacklandosc.org.MILITARY COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN

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


SPORTS

NEXT WEEK’S FC2 WORKOUT

Complete four rounds of a 400-meter run on the treadmill at a 7.2 speed, 10 push-ups and 20 air squat jumps1 for time. The women’s workout is the same, except a speed of 6.5 is used during the 400-me-ter run.

TV: ARMED FORCES BOXING

Coverage of the 2011 Armed Forces Boxing Championships continues on The Pentagon Channel at http://www.pen-tagonchannel.mil/. The program airs today at 12:30 p.m.

Upcoming

Scoreboard

Varsity The Lady Warhawks fi nished fi fth of 24 teams at the Budweiser Softball Festival. this past weekend in College Station. Leading the team at the place, Corinna Vieyra had a .692 batting average, Laura Newberg had a .667 batting average and Vonda Ware had a .600 batting average.

National W L1. NIOC 2 02. 433rd AW 1 0 3. 802nd OSS 1 1 4. Navy-Marines 1 15. 543rd Spt Sq 1 1 6. 93rd IS 0 1 7. 688th IOW 0 2

American W L1. LAB 4 1 2. Crypto Div 3 1 3. AFISRA 2 1 4. Security Forces 3 2 5. 701st MP Bn 1 2 6. 624th OC 1 3 7. 717th MI Bn 0 4

Competitive W L1. Radiology 5 1 2. 737th TRG 5 1 3. FSS 4 2 4. 149th FW 3 3 5. CES 3 36. 668th ALIS 2 47. 343rd TRS 2 48. Dental 0 5

Women W L1. Crypto Div 2 0 2. 59th Med Wing 1 1 3. MSS 1 1 4.NIOC 0 2

SOFTBALL Armed Forces Triathlon Championship at Naval Base

Ventura County, Calif., April 6-10

The Air Force female triathlon team won its third consecutive gold medal; the male team captured gold for the second year in row.

FINAL STANDINGS

Men: (1) Air Force, (2) Navy, (3) Ma-rine Corps, (4) Army

Women: (1) Air Force, (2) Navy, (3) Army, (4) Marine Corps

TOP 10 FINISHERS

Men: The four Airmen fi nished in the top 10.(1) Capt James Bales, Peterson AFB, Colo., 1:50:05, (4) Scott Tonder, Van-denberg AFB, Calif., 1:53:19, (7) Ken-neth Corrigliano, Cannon AFB, N.M., 1:56:05, and (10) Michael McCoy, Scott AFB, Ill, 1:57:07.

Women: The fi ve Airmen fi nished in the top 10. (1) Kathy Rakel, Luke AFB, Ariz., 2:04:51, (2) Colleen O’Connor, Andrews AFB, Md., 2:09:51, (3) Erin O’Connor, Charleston AFB, S.C., 2:11:48, (4) Jolene Wilkinson, Hill AFB, Utah, 2:12:30 and (8) Stephanie Hirst, Pat-rick AFB, Fla., 2:17:03.

Armed Forces Basketball Championship at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif., April 10-27

The undefeated Air Force men’s team won the gold medal, while the women’s team overcame three early losses to beat Army in the fi nals.

Men: The Air Force won its sixth straight title, going undefeated through six games during the tourna-ment. Championship game: Air Force 71, Army 65. Five Airmen were selected to the 12-member All-Armed Forces men’s basketball team: forward Jammer Ma-jor, Hurlburt Field, Fla., guard Ony-enma Nwaelele, Keesler AFB, Miss., center John Frye, Shriever AFB, Colo., guard Matt McCraw, Malmstrom AFB, Mont., and guard Andrew Henke, Scott AFB, Ill.

Women: The Air Force went 1-3, before winning four straight, includ-ing back-to-back fi nals victories over the defending champion Army team.Championship games: Air Forces 56, Army 47 (Game 1); Air Force 67, Army 51 (Game 2). Three Airmen made the 12-member All-Armed Forces team: forward Williamina Folks, MacDill AFB, Fla., guard Denasha Mondy, Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska, and guard Javita Cotton, Spangdahlem Air Base, Germany.

Armed Forces Beach/ In-door Volleyball Championships

at Marine Corps Air Station Cherry Point, N.C., April 6-15

The Air Force men won gold in the beach volleyball competition while the women won gold in indoor volleyball.

BEACH VOLLEYBALL

Women: The A team won silver, with a 2-1 record. The B team took bronze, beating Navy before losing to the Ma-rines in tiebreaker games. Brooke Cultra, Ramstein Air Base, Germany, was selected to the four-member U.S. Armed Forces Conseil International du Sport Militaire team.

Men: The B team won gold, with a 3-0 record. The A team took bronze, with a 1-2 record. Joe Gross, Hurlburt Field AFB, Fla., was selected to the four-member U.S. Armed Forces CISM team.

INDOOR VOLLEYBALL

Women: The women won bronze, los-ing to Navy in a second-place tiebreak-er. Michelle Harrington, Hanscom AFB, Mass., was selected to the 12-member U.S. Armed Forces CISM team.

Men: The men’s team fi nished 2-5.Two Airmen made the 12-member U.S. Armed Forces CISM team: Thomas Read, Hurlburt Field AFB, Fla., and Tipton Street, Scott AFB, Ill.

Air Force teams claim gold in 3 spring sports

– 2011 Armed Forces Championships –

As of April, the men’s basketball team is now reaching dynasty-status, having won six straighttitles; both male and female Airmen triathletes dominated the Olympic-distance course at PointMugu, Calif., and the men’s volleyball team proved its game extends outdoors, winning the second-ever beach tournament.

Here’s a more in-depth look at how the Airmen-athletes performed at recent Armed Forces com-petition:

TriathlonBasketballVolleyball


By Erin TindellAir Force Personnel, Service and Manpower Public Affairs

SAN ANTONIO (AFNS) – As part of continuing ef-forts to support wounded warriors, Air Force Servic-es Agency offi cials recently purchased and distrib-uted 85 remote-controlled bowling balls and ramps for installations worldwide.

The purchase makes the Air Force both the single largest purchaser of the bowling balls and the fi rst service within the Department of Defense to pur-chase and distribute them.

According to Don Freund, the bowling program manager at the agency, the balls were initially pur-chased with wounded warriors in mind.

But eligibility was expanded to others looking for a new way to enjoy the game.

“This is another way we’re ensuring the Air Force is a great place to live, work and play,” Freund said. “We own more remote-controlled bowling balls than any bowling center in the U.S., and we’re the fi rst

of the armed forces to offer this option.”Wounded warriors and those with special needs,

including civilians and dependents, have priority to use the balls at bowling centers at no charge.

All other bowlers can use the ball for a fee.The remote-controlled bowling ball looks like a

traditional ball, but is equipped with a computer chip and motor inside that allows the ball to self propel. A battery-operated remote allows the user to sync control of the ball’s speed and direction of movement.

The ball also lights up as it travels down the lane.

The technology allows wounded warriors and those with special needs to bowl on any lane instead of being limited to outside lanes that are compliant with the Americans with Disabilities Act of 1990.

Demonstrations of the remote-controlled bowling ball can be seen at installation bowling centers.

For more information about Air Force quality of life programs, visit www.usafservices.com.

Services offi cials strike down barriers for wounded warriors

By Patrick DesmondSports Editor

Ever dreamed of walking onto a fi ne-ly-manicured baseball diamond, step-ping up to the plate against the best in the world and crushing a baseball to the delight of thousands of fans.

Well, wake up – the open tryout for the traveling military all-star team, He-roes of the Diamond, May 13 at Lack-land, can make that dream reality.

One of many recruiting stops over the next few months, the Heroes of the Diamond tryout offers active-duty, veteran, reserve and emergency fi rst-responders a chance to join the team on its 2011 Red, White and Blue Tour. Current players represent the Marine, Navy, Coast Guard and Air Force.

Floating somewhere between ama-teur- and professional-level baseball, the Heroes of the Diamond play in 100 games annually, competing against in-ternational, college, minor league and major league ballclubs.

In the past, the military-minded team visited 45 states and eight coun-tries, and even took the fi eld against the Boston Red Sox.

In addition to the chance to play in a highly competitive platform, the

Heroes of the Diamond program is a vehicle for exposing military players to Major League Baseball organizations. In 2007, the San Diego Padres picked up then Marine and Heroes player Cpl. Cooper Brannan.

However, not everyone’s path is as storied.

The team’s website warns interest-ed ball players to fi rst take a “reality check” when thinking about joining the team. Due to wartime conditions and

the fact that a limited number of for-mer MLB, professional, and collegiate players are on the roster, it’s hard to make the team.

No stranger to serving the military on and off the baseball diamond, War-hawks varsity coach Davin Dukes un-derstands the rarity of joining such a select group.

“A lot of these guys are just short of having the opportunity to play mi-nor league baseball,” Dukes said, who

has had at least two of his own players become members of the all-star team over the years. “Some of the pitchers even have Major League Baseball po-tential, if only they had time to go out and train.

“It’s high quality baseball.”Minimum requirements for joining

the team include a focus on spreading the team’s message of supporting de-ployed Armed Forces personnel, being in competitive shape, having a current performance report, valid passport and membership with Heroes of the Diamond, and possession of equipment and team uniforms.

Members are responsible for non-game day meals, entertainment and travel to and from the tour.

By defi nition, the team is a young, elite crew and making the cut is rare. But so is the chance to round the bases and the world in military service.

The tryout will be held at the War-hawk baseball fi eld, 7 p.m., on the training side of Lackland. For more in-formation regarding the Heroes of the Diamond program visit its website at http://www.heroesofthediamond.com/index.html. For more details about the tryout, call Dwayne Reed, sports and fi tness program director, at 671-3716.

‘Heroes’ tryout a shot at diamond’s best

Documents

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