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INSIDE | Commentary 2 News 3 Community Briefs 14 ONLINE | http://www.JBSA.mil

Photo by Jessica BosquezAirman 1st Class Mingo McKynnis, 802nd Security Forces Squadron installation patrolman, checks IDs Sept. 2 at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland’s Valley High Gate. See story page 8.

REAL ID Act implemented across JBSA

TALESPINNER September 9, 2016commentary

This newspaper is published by EN Communities, a private fi rm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with JBSA-Lackland, Texas. This commercial enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services. 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 Department of the Air Force.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or EN Communities, of the products or services 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 affi liation, or any other non-merit 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 story submissionsis noon Wednesday the week prior

to publication.

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Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland

Editorial Staff

BRIG. GEN. HEATHER PRINGLE

502ND AIR BASE WING/JBSACOMMANDER

TODD G. WHITE

502ND ABW/JBSAPUBLIC AFFAIRS DIRECTOR

OSCAR BALLADARES

JBSA-LACKLAND PUBLIC AFFAIRS CHIEF

ALAIN M. POLYNICE

COMMAND INFORMATION CHIEF

SENIOR AIRMAN LYNSIE NICHOLS

SENIOR AIRMAN KRYSTAL WRIGHT

PHOTOJOURNALISTS

JEREMY GERLACH JOSE T. GARZA III

STAFF WRITERS

DOROTHY LONAS PAGE DESIGN/ILLUSTRATOR

By Lt. Col. Bryan Elder Vance Air Force Base, Okla.

In Air Education and Training Command, we are challenged with delivering innovative Airmen.

But what is the recipe for innovative Airmen?

Equal parts adaptability, creativity, per-sistence and the ability to see connections between ideas and patterns? Mix, bake and presto, we’re done, right?

After a year of looking, I still have not found that recipe.

In the very rigid and syllabus-constrained environment of Undergraduate Pilot Training, I keep looking for that one “golden nugget,” the one “best practice,” the one fl ight commander that obviously had a new and innovative way to produce the world’s best warriors for victory in the air.

Commanders and Airmen alike are hungry for innovation. Over the years I’ve learned that it is not about creating new programs or fi nding the one best practice.

Instead, it is the culture and environment each and every one of us sets in our group, squadron, fl ight, section or offi ce that will foster and cultivate new and innovative ways of thinking.

This is not driven from the top and we certainly don’t need another new program to tell us how to be innovative.

In his book, “Good to Great,” Jim Collins argues that large companies often fail be-cause they “launch change programs with huge fanfare, hoping to ‘enlist the troops.’”

“They start down one path, only to change direction. After years of lurching back and forth, these companies discover that they’ve failed to build any sustained momentum,” Collins writes.

“Companies that make the change from good to great have no name for their trans-formation — and absolutely no program. They neither rant nor rave about a crisis

and they don’t manufacture one where none exists,” he writes.

So the solution is not a new program.Then how can we harvest innovation?

The one simple truth of command is the men and women under your command will be passionate for your ideas. My recipe – let us be passionate about creating an en-vironment where calculated risk and ideas are rewarded.

If you are a shop chief or supervisor, do you have an environment in which your people can express and test new ideas? Or have you created an environment so paralyzed by products and processes that it doesn’t allow for innovation?

Have we become so scared of failure that we fail to dare for success?

Growing up in fi ghter squadrons, this was subconsciously engrained in our upgrade programs. For the fi rst year, new

pilots concentrate on being experts in the aircraft and follow the tactics and proce-dures to the letter without question.

This may be similar to when you get someone new in your offi ce, shop or squad-ron. You want them to know the processes, Air Force Instructions and procedures as a starting point.

However, after the fi rst year of be-ing a wingman, we then ask our pilots to upgrade to fl ight leads. With this added responsibility comes a certain amount of “leash.”

We allow them to apply their own ideas to the Air Force’s tactics, techniques and procedures learned over the previous year. What does this do? It allows a fl ight lead to take some calculated risk in areas they think may produce better results.

It does not always work. After six hours of debriefi ng one of my fl ight lead upgrade rides, I realized a calculated risk drove my wingman and I inside the “minimum abort range.” This eliminated our ability to turn away from the threat.

As a result, my two-ship had to square up to the threat and split our formation in order to try and get one of us to merge with the threat. Hopefully the other one could quickly follow it up with a shot.

I lost my wingman that day — simulated of course — but it still hurt the same. My new innovative idea was a failure — or was it?

By creating an environment in which Airmen have the opportunity to take an educated and calculated risk, you foster innovation. I learned more from that failure than I would have from applying the status quo.

My recipe for innovation? Start with technical expertise, throw in leaders who are willing to let their people fail, and fi n-ish it by giving every subordinate a venue to share new ideas and innovations.

Every Airman has an incredible idea. We just have to listen.

Recipe for delivering innovative Airmen

Courtesy graphic

JBSA SEXUAL ASSAULT HOTLINE • 808-SARC (7272)DOD SAFE HELPLINE • (877) 995-5247

JBSA CRISIS HOTLINE • 367-1213JBSA DUTY CHAPLAIN • 365-6420

JBSA Sexual Assault Prevention and Response

One of the best things about ICE is that people can let service providers know when they do a great job, not just for poor service.

It takes fi ve minutes or less to submit a comment at http://ice.disa.mil.

September 9, 2016 TALESPINNER PAGE 3newsamerican idol to perform at jbsa

David Cook, American Idol winner, will be performing 7-8:30 p.m. Friday at the Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland Outdoor Amphitheater.

Opening the event at 6:30 p.m., the top four winners of the JBSA Talent Search will perform before David Cook and will win prize money.

The free concert is open to JBSA depart-ment of defense cardholders and families. Attendees will need to bring blankets and chairs to the show, as seating will not be provided.

Prior to the concert, David Cook will be hosting a meet and greet from 6-6:30 p.m. at the Gateway Club. As space is limited for the meet and greet, use the follow-ing link to enter the raffle to meet David Cook: https://einvitations.afit.edu/inv/anim.cfm?i=303880&k=016141017357.

bamc refill pharmacy re-opens, ready to serve The Brooke Army Medical Center Refill

Pharmacy at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston reopened Aug. 12 after closing temporarily for repairs.

This closure affected patients who use the refill pharmacy to pick up their prescriptions and temporarily added to the volume of cus-tomers at both the Main Pharmacy and the pharmacy in the Capt. Jennifer M. Moreno Primary Care Clinic.

The repairs to the existing structure will sustain refill pharmacy operations until the new Post Exchange is built, where a 6,000-square-foot pharmacy will open.

To request a prescription refill, visit https://www.tricareonline.com.

jbsa annual air force ball tickets available

The 69th Annual Air Force Birthday Ball tickets are on sale. It will be held Sept. 16 at the Hyatt Hill Country Resort located at 9800 Hyatt Resort Drive in San Antonio. This year’s theme is “You are what makes our Air Force Diverse!”

Social hour will begin at 6 p.m. with the main event to follow at 7 p.m. Sept. 16. For ticket information visit the 2016 JBSA Air Force Ball Facebook page, or call 325-2035 or 925-1716.

rambler 120 team challenge The 2016 Rambler 120 event will be held

Oct. 1 at the Joint Base San Antonio Recreation Park at Canyon Lake.

This adventure race promotes teamwork,

News in Brief

See NEWS IN BRIEF Page 6

By Tech. Sgt. Joshua L. DeMottsSecretary of the Air Force Public Affairs Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall

Air Force Undersecretary Lisa S. Disbrow and Chief of Staff Gen. Dave Goldfein welcomed Gen. Stephen W. Wilson as the service’s new vice chief of staff at a reception Aug. 26 at the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Hall Officers’ Club.

The senior leaders and their guests then attended a public event at the Air Force Memorial, where the service hon-ored Vietnam War veterans with perfor-mances by the U.S. Air Force Band and Honor Guard, and a T-38 Talon forma-tion flyover.

At the reception, Disbrow expressed her excitement to have Wilson on the Air Staff.

“With more than 35 years of dedicated service to the Air Force and joint time as well … I have to say I’m really honored to be working with you and looking for-ward to a lot of great efforts together,” she said. “I see you reaching back to the Air Force’s past and looking forward to the future, and being that bridge for us. So thank you already.”

Wilson said he is truly honored and humbled to serve as the service’s 39th vice chief.

As vice chief, Wilson said his focus will be on supporting the Air Force sec-retary and chief of staff in executing the Air Force’s Strategic Master Plan. He also looks forward to advancing the secretary’s three priorities of taking care of people, balancing readiness and modernization, and making every dollar count.

“I plan on focusing on the things that make a difference to our Airmen and their families,” Wilson said. “I have a fundamental philosophy that if we start with the right people, we give them the right training and resources, and we ensure they are personally and profes-sionally satisfied … the result is mission success.”

Wilson’s also excited to help the chief of staff execute his top three priorities: revitalizing squadrons, preparing Airmen to lead in the joint fight, and rethinking how the service can execute multi-do-main global command and control.

“Our nation counts on airpower every

day to defend our interests and way of life,” he said. “Our Air Force remains the best in the world, and today we are globally engaged as we continue to navi-gate through a very challenging security environment.”

He went on to say that with all chal-lenges come opportunities, and he is looking forward to be in a position to help influence the strategic vector

of the Air Force.“I have had the good fortune to com-

mand at multiple levels in our Air Force, and to serve in joint jobs, with partner nations and in deployed locations,” Wilson said. “I have seen firsthand how crucial airpower is to the fight, and how Airmen lead the way in using innova-tive technology in air, space, cyber and electronic warfare.”

Air Force officials welcome new vice chief of staff, honor Vietnam War vets

Photo by Tech. Sgt. Joshua L. DeMottsGen. Stephen W. Wilson shares his thoughts at a reception welcoming him as the Air Force’s new vice chief of staff Aug. 26 at the Joint Base Myer-Henderson Officer’s Club, Va.

TALESPINNER September 9, 2016

By Airman 1st Class Lauren ElyJBSA-Randolph Public Affairs

In the midst of this political season, service members and Department of Defense personnel should be aware of behaviors, to steer clear of on social media and in real-world activities.

Here are a list of Do’s and Do Not’s for social media and political activities:

Do:Register to vote and go vote. Make personal monetary donations. Express personal views. This is the same as

writing a letter to the editor, however, do not engage in any political partisan activity.

Include a disclaimer if you are identifiable as a military member.

“Friend,” “like” or “follow” the Facebook page or Twitter account of a political party or partisan candidate, campaign or group but should refrain from engaging in political activities with respect to partisan political entities’ accounts that would constitute political activity.

Forward all inquiries from political campaign organizations to a public affairs officer for aware-ness and appropriate action.

Do Not:Suggest that others “like, “friend,” or “follow”

the partisan account.• Forward invitations to partisan events.• Post direct links of “Likes” to partisan sites.

• Solicit others or fundraise. • Imply or appear to imply Department of

Defense sponsorship, approval or endorsement of a political candidate, campaign or cause.

• Campaign for a candidate on or off base. • March in a partisan parade. • Wear a military uniform to a partisan event. • Attempt to influence the voting or participation

of any other service member. Partisan political activity is defined as activ-

ity directed at the success or failure of a politi-cal party, partisan political candidate, campaign group or cause.

A political campaign or election begins when a candidate makes a formal announcement that he/she seeks to be elected to a federal, state or local political office or when an individual files for candidacy with the Federal Election Commission or equivalent state or local regulatory office. A political campaign or election does not end until one week after the conclusion of the relevant election.

For a complete list of permissible and prohibited activities, please refer to DOD Directive 1344.10, Political Activities by Members of the Armed Forces Guidance for Military Personnel.

For voting assistance information, visit http://www.FVAP.gov or contact the voting assistance officer within your unit.

Social media and political guidance for members of the Armed Forces

Courtesy graphic

September 9, 2016 TALESPINNER PAGE 5

The National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2016 created a new military re-tirement system that blends elements of the legacy retirement system with a more modern, 401(k)-style plan.

The new Blended Retirement System goes into effect Jan. 1, 2018 and combines the legacy 20-year military retirement system in which the U.S. government provides monthly retired pay based on years of service and a percentage of a service member’s pay with a defined contribu-tion plan, similar to the civilian equivalent of a 401(k)-style retirement system, where the service member and the U.S. government both contribute to the retirement.

The new Blended Retirement System provides service members an automatic and matching portable contribution retirement plan, while maintaining a traditional pension for those who serve at least 20 years.

The change to a Blended Retirement System is a key step in modernizing the military’s ability to recruit, retain and maintain the talent require of the future force. The plan provides additional options to attract and manage a military force, which requires ever-increasing diverse and tech-nical skill sets in an evolving global economy.

The legacy defined-benefit military retirement

system was a significant incentive in retaining a ca-reer military force and has served the Department of Defense and service members well for decades. However, 81 percent of service members who left before reaching 20 years of service, had no government retirement benefit.

The new Blended Retirement System will now ensure nearly 85 percent of military members leave the service with retirement savings, as op-posed to just 19 percent today. It is one of the most wide-reaching and significant changes to military pay and benefits of the last 70 years. For the first time, service members will receive automatic and matching DOD contributions to their retirement and have control over their investments.

The Department’s immediate focus is on educating and training more than two million ac-tive, Reserve and National Guard members and their families. The Blended Retirement System Leader Course, released June 1, is one of four targeted education courses for leaders, financial and retirement counselors, is on educating and training over two million active, Reserve and Na-tional Guard members and their families.

The Blended Retirement System Leader Course, released June 1, is one of four targeted educa-tion courses for leaders, financial and retirement counselors, service members and their families

who are eligible to opt-in and individuals new to the military. It is available through the mili-tary’s Joint Knowledge Online or at http://www.MilitaryOneSource.mil. Although geared towards leaders, the course is available to all service members and their families.

No service member needs to make a decision until Jan. 1, 2018. However, all service members should take advantage of training and informa-tional resources as they become available. It is incumbent that service members who are eligible to opt into the Blended Retirement System during 2018 be equipped with the knowledge necessary to make the best decision for their own individual circumstances.

(Source: U.S. Air Force)

Blended Retirement System modernizes retirement plan for uniformed services

To advertise in the Talespinner, call

250-2345 for classifi eds or contact

Michelle Bogue at 250-2052 for retail ads


By Jeremy GerlachJBSA-Lackland Public Affairs

The results are in and Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland’s own Senior Master Sgt. Jason Dahlquist, 326th Training Squadron first sergeant, has taken home the Air Force First Sergeant of the Year award.

“This feels amazing – it’s still sinking in,” Dahlquist said. “I don’t think anybody wakes up on the first of January and thinks to themselves, ‘I’m going to end up as first sergeant of the year.’”

The honor is the culmination of a rigorous screening process involving thousands of first sergeants from across the entire Air Force com-peting from the group level all the way up to major command. Nominees are examined based on their leadership, job performance, self-improvement and community involvement.

At the 326th TRS, Dahlquist is one of the lead-ers of the Airmen’s Week, a course that serves as a bridge between basic military training and technical training. There, he helps more than 750 recently-graduated Airmen per week reflect on healthy mental, social, physical and spiritual practices through a series of presentations and round table discussions.

“I have the honor to work every day with some of the best and brightest minds in the entire Air Force,” said Dahlquist, who was quick to share credit with his coworkers at the 326th TRS. “Our job isn’t easy, but it’s vital to the mission here at JBSA-Lackland and, in turn, the rest of the Air Force.”

Chief Master Sgt. Sharon Fuller, 37th Training Wing command chief, said Dahlquist’s selection

for the award was a “no-brainer,” considering his invaluable contributions to Airmen’s Week.

“Dahlquist isn’t just involved in Airmen’s Week – he helped create it,” she noted. “He is an amazing first sergeant. He bends over backwards to take care of our airmen and we’re extremely privileged

to have him as part of the 37th Training Wing team.“Fuller noted that Dahlquist, as part of the

team that developed Airmen’s Week, helped cre-ate much of the curriculum, design and presenta-tion that Airmen see as a finished product at the conclusion of BMT. During this process, Dahlquist worked regularly with some big names, includ-ing Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force James Cody.

Still, Dahlquist was surprised when Cody per-sonally called to relay the news that he had won the award.

“I was on leave in Massachusetts at the time, so my family and I were actually headed to a Red Sox game when I got the call,” said Dahlquist, an avid Boston fan with the accent to match. “It was humbling; it was a surprise.”

Fuller, however, wasn’t surprised at all. Noting that the screening for the award is just as rigor-ous as the screening undertaken by military train-ing instructors, Fuller was confident the process would reward Dahlquist’s dedication and hard work.

“We want the best of the best in the Air Force to be the ones setting the standard,” Fuller noted. “Dahlquist winning this award demonstrates that he wasn’t just the best of the best in his role with BMT, but his work ethic and dedication is exactly the role model we want Airmen to see as they start their careers.”

Fuller urged future award nominees to remem-ber that dedication goes a long way, regardless of how many people are watching.

“If you work hard at your job, the Air Force is willing to recognize that,” she said. “Dahlquist is proof of that – he’s been simply phenomenal.”

Air Force's First Sergeant of the Year humbled, honored to receive award

competition and fun by challenging four-person Xtreme teams (must have at least one Department of Defense ID cardholder), eight-person relay teams (must have at least two DOD ID cardholders. There will also be a “Just-4-Fun” category for individuals.

The registration fees are $120 for Xtreme teams, $180 for Relay teams and $25 for individuals. The fee covers a barbecue lunch, commemorative T-shirt and awards for teams. Participants can register and pay at https://www.athleteguild.com/adventure-racing/ canyon-lake-tx/2016-rambler-120-team-challenge. This is a limited amount of money

to pay the registration fees for all active-duty military teams, so this registration money is on a first-come, first-serve basis. The deadline to register is Sept. 23.

For more information, contact JBSA Community Programs at 652-5763 or [email protected].

fegli program holds open season in september

For the first time in 12 years, the Federal Employees’ Group Life Insurance program is having an open season, which will run from Sept. 1-30.

During the open season, eligible federal employees can enroll in FEGLI or increase coverage up to the maximum offered by the

program, including Option C coverage on the lives of spouses and eligible dependent children under age 22. In order to participate in the open season, employees must be in a retirement covered position authorized for FEGLI coverage.

The federal government established the FEGLI program on Aug. 29, 1954. The largest group life insurance program in the world, FEGLI covers over 4 million federal employees and retirees, as well as many of their family members.

Opportunities for federal civilians to enroll in the FEGLI program or to pick up coverage that was waived are normally limited to newly hired/newly eligible employees, rehired employees

with a break of 180 days or more, open season, provision of medical information, a life event or designation as emergency essential in the Defense Department, and deployment in support of a contingency operation in a civilian capacity.

Enrolled employees can cancel or reduce coverage or change beneficiaries at any time without waiting for an open season. Elections or changes made during the 2016 FEGLI open season are effective Oct. 1, 2017.

Employees will make their elections in the Employee Benefits Information System via the AFPC Secure website.

More information on FEGLI is available at https://www.opm.gov/healthcare-insurance/ life-insurance/open-season/.

NEWS IN BRIEF from Page 3

Photo by Ed PrinceMaster Sgt. Jason Dahlquist, one of the chief developers of the Airmen's Week, credited the entire 326th Training Squadron with helping him win the 2016 Air Force First Sergeant of the Year award.


By 502nd Security Forces and Logistics Support Group

The REAL ID Act of 2005 implements the 9/11 Commission’s recommendation that the Federal Government “set standards for the issuance … of sources of identification, such as driver’s licenses.” The Act prohibits Federal agencies from accepting for official purposes State driver’s licenses or identi-fication cards that do not meet specified standards.

Congress modified U.S. federal law pertaining to security, authentication, standardization and issuance procedures standards for the state driver’s licenses and identification cards, as well as various immigration issues pertaining to terrorism. Secure driver’s licenses and identification documents are a vital component of our national security framework.

The Department of Defense directed imple-mentation of REAL ID Act requirements in Oct. 2015, with enforcement commencing here at Joint Base San Antonio on Thursday through the invalidation of identification from American Samoa, Minnesota, Missouri and Washington; all non-compliant States and Territories that did not have an approved waiver to the Act.

More than two dozen additional non-compliant states whose identification is currently accepted through a Department of Homeland Security waiver

are scheduled to invalidate Oct. 10.This means, unless further extensions are

approved, visitors, vendors and contractors using a driver’s license or identification card from one of the four previously invalidated States and Territories, as well as Alaska, Arkansas, California, Guam, Idaho, Illinois, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine, Massachusetts, Michigan, Montana, Northern Marianas, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, North Carolina, North Dakota, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Puerto Rico, Rhode Island, South Car-olina, Texas, Virginia or the U.S. Virgin Islands, must show an approved alternative source of identifica-tion for unescorted access.

In cases where alternative identification is un-available, the individual must be sponsored by a DOD credentialed escort (DOD ID holders may escort up to five individuals at a time), or will be denied access to the installation.

DHS approved forms of alternative identification include:

• U.S. Passport• U.S Passport Card• Permanent Resident Card/Alien Registration

Receipt Card (Form I-551)• Foreign passport with a temporary stamp or

temporary printed notation on a machine readable

immigrant visa• Employment authorization document that con-

tains a photograph (Form I-766); identification card issued by Federal, State, or local government agen-cies provided it contains a photograph and biograph-ical information including name, date of birth, gen-der, height, eye color and address

• U.S. Coast Guard Merchant Mariner cards/ credentials

• Federally-issued Personal Identification Verifi-cation (PIV), PIV-1, or PIV-I Cards; DHS “Trusted Traveler Card” (Global entry, NEXUS, SENTRI, FAST)

• Merchant Mariner Card issued by DHS/United States Coast Guard

• Border Crossing Card (Form DSP-150)• U.S. Certificate of Naturalization or Certificate

of Citizenship (Form N-550), and U.S. Permanent Resident Card (Form I-551)

While the REAL ID Act alters access require-ments for some JBSA visitors, vendors and contrac-tors, there is no change for individuals who already possess valid and current DOD credentials, including a DOD CAC or locally-issued DBIDs Card.

If you have any questions about installation access, please contact any of the JBSA Visitor Control Centers at JBSA-Fort Sam Houston at 221-2650; JBSA-Lackland at 671-6174; or JBSA-Randolph at 652-3939.

JBSA implements REAL ID Act Thursday


By Airman 1st Class Lauren ElyJoint Base San Antonio-Randolph Public Affairs

As children, boys often dream of growing up to become a firefighter, doctor, policeman or soldier.

Few ever fulfill those childhood dreams, however, 2nd Lt. Chris Hsu did.

“As a little boy, and I think all little kids, they wanted to be a Soldier one day,” Hsu, Air Education and Training Command Judge Advocate legal intern, said. “Part of me is I never grew out of that little dream.”

Hsu, an immigrant from Taiwan, moved to the United States in grade school. His parents would move him and his brother, Tim, to Taiwan and back to the United States again after sixth grade before the family settled in Houston.

“My parents did it intentionally so we could be fluent in both languages,” Hsu said. “They sacri-ficed a lot. Because coming here [United States], it’s always hard as immigrants to start up.”

Hsu attended Texas A&M University and received a degree in mechanical engineering in 2014. While at Texas A&M, Hsu was awarded a scholarship with the Corp of Cadets, where he spent four years in a military academy-type environment and received his commission to the U.S. Air Force upon his graduation.

“Lieutenant Hsu gave up his Taiwanese citizen-ship,” Lt. Col. Trinh Peterson, AETC Judge Advocate Association chief of civil law, said. “That kind of tells you his dedication to this country and serving here.”

After graduation, Hsu was accepted to the University of Houston Law Center and is slated to graduate law school in spring 2017, when he will also apply for a position in the JAG. While attending law school, Hsu is on reserve status and will return to active duty status upon his graduation.

“We got really lucky,” Peterson said of having Hsu as their summer intern. “He really is a shining star.”

During his internship, Hsu said he rotated through different divisions at the JAG office, such as contracting, military justice, operations and the civil division, to “learn what they do.”

Hsu was able save the Air Force money by resolv-ing protests to a pending contract, which can result if contractors believe they didn’t get a fair chance at the contract, Peterson said.

Hsu was also able to clear the back log of packag-es on adverse actions against senior enlisted people and officers, which are sent up to the Air Force chief of staff for approval on discharges.

“Hsu drafted legal reviews, put the packages to-gether and sent it to a two-star general,” Peterson said. “We don’t even really allow young captains to do that, but Hsu showed us he could. He writes very, very well.”

Due to his impressive work performance, Col. Polly S. Kenny, AETC staff judge advocate, nomi-nated Hsu for an incentive ride.

Incentive rides are an award granted to enlisted or young officers based upon significant achieve-ments and allow service members to ride in aircraft operated on base.

“He did such amazing work for us and cleared

work we had just sitting because we were low on personnel for a while,” Peterson said. “She [Kenny] thought he really deserved it.”

Before taking the flight, Maj. Gavin Peterson, 435th Fighter Training Squadron flight commander, gave Hsu a brief on what to expect, as well as on safety precautions such as how to eject.

“When we were done with all of the exercise in flight, Peterson gave the control to me and taught me how to turn left and right,” Hsu said.

Hsu said getting to see the view was the best part of the flight, and he was honored to get to see the operations side of what pilots do.

“It’s absolutely gorgeous and beautiful up there,” Hsu said. “It’s not like a commercial airplane with a small window; you’re immersed in the clouds and sky.”

At the end of the experience, Hsu credited God, his family and the people he’s been surrounded with in the Air Force for his success.

“That’s what makes being here in the Air Force so cool; it’s the people,” Hsu said. “I wouldn’t be here without these people that I meet. I just want to give credit to all of them.

“I really don’t have any accomplishments,” Hsu continued. “If I do have anything, it’s because of the people who invest in me. Hopefully one day I can do the same for other people. That’s really my goal.”

Lieutenant excels in legal internship, fulfills childhood dream

Photo by Airman 1st Class Lauren ElySecond Lt. Chris Hsu, Air Education and Training Command JAG intern, prepares for a T-38 Talon incentive flight at Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph July 27. Hsu was nominated by Col. Polly Kenny, AETC staff judge advocate, for the incentive flight due to his exemplary performance while interning.

Photo illustration by Airman 1st Class Lauren ElySecond Lt. Chris Hsu, Air Education and Training Command intern, received his commission from Texas A&M University in 2014 after serving in the Texas A&M Corp of Cadets pro-gram. Hsu is now attending the University of Houston Law Center and plans to apply for a position within the Judge Advocate Group Corps after he finishes law school in spring of 2017.


By Jeremy GerlachJBSA-Lackland Public Affairs

Four finalists from Joint Base San Antonio will be the opening acts for 2008 American Idol winner David Cook’s upcoming on-base concert after wowing the judges at the JBSA Talent Show.

Kevin Harris; Joe Green, U.S. Postal Service worker; Capt. Robert Sorensen, 59th Medical Group der-matology resident; and the duo Andrew Bower and Tech. Sgt. Jamie Bennett, 319th Training Squadron military training instructor, came out on top following a three-hour contest held Aug. 31 at Arnold Hall.

These four acts will take the stage just before Cook’s free concert for JBSA personnel and their family mem-bers, which will be held at the JBSA- Lackland Outdoor Amphitheatre 7:00 p.m. Sept. 9.

The talent show, modeled after popular television talent programs like American Idol or the Voice, packed the Arnold Hall stage to the brim with singers, musicians, magi-cians, dancers and even an intricate yo-yo act.

Attendees can expect to see a diverse set of performances, as Green and Harris will belt out R&B and Motown selections, respectively, while Bennet and Bower sing country music. Sorensen, writes his own music.

The concert is an opportunity for all three JBSA bases to come together, said Capt. Meagan Capra, 37th Training Wing executive officer.

“This isn’t just a morale event,” Capra said. “People who come out are already going to be having a good time, but with the talent show win-ners, attendees will get the chance to cheer on their friends, too.”

Friends of the four contestants will be able to offer more than moral support, said Capt. Rian Ulrich, 323rd Training Squadron basic mili-tary training flight commander.

“We’re actually determining the places – first, second, third and fourth – for the finalists at the concert based on how the audience reacts to them,” Ulrich noted. “First place gets a $300 prize, second gets $200, and so on, so we’re hoping friends and family all come out to cheer on their performers.”

JBSA talent to perform at David Cook concert

Joe Green delivers a rendition of “End of the Road” by Boyz II Men.

Country duo Andrew Bower and Tech Sgt. Jamie Bennett perform the country ballad, “In Color” by Jamey Johnson.

Capt. Robert Sorenson performs “Summertime Peaches” before the judges at the Aug. 31 JBSA Talent Show.

Photos by Ed PrinceKevin Harris performs Ed Sheeran's soulful love song, “Thinking Out Loud.”


By Ashley Palacios JBSA-Randolph Public Affairs

National Hispanic Heritage Month, observed annually from Thursday to Oct. 15, is a time to celebrate the histories, cultures and contributions of American citizens whose ancestors came from Spain, Mexico, the Caribbean and Central and South America.

This year’s theme, as decided by the Defense Equal Opportunity Management Institute, is “Embracing, Enriching and Enabling America.”

Thursday is a signifi cant day because it is the anniversary of independence for the Latin American countries of Costa Rica, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua. Additionally, Mexico and Chile celebrate their independence days on Sept. 16 and Sept. 18, respectively.

Columbus Day, the holiday which offi cially celebrates the anniversary of Spanish explorer Christopher Columbus’ arrival in and discovery of the American continent, is celebrated Oct. 12, which also falls during this time period.

The National Hispanic Heritage observation began in 1968 as Hispanic Heritage Week under President Lyndon B. Johnson and was expanded by President Ronald Reagan in 1988 to cover a 31-day period. This expansion was the direct result of the efforts made by retired Air Force Col. Gil Coronado, a San Antonio native.

Coronado grew up in the barrios of San Antonio. Orphaned at age fi ve, he often found himself in trouble with the law. He dropped out of high school and was soon involved in gangs. At age 16, Coro-nado lied about his age and enlisted in the Air Force. After a 30-year Air Force career, he had earned his General Equivalency Diploma, a col-lege degree and had been presented with more than 35 awards and decorations, including the Legion of Merit and the Bronze Star. A long-time crusader for Hispanic issues, Coronado lobbied President Reagan in 1988 for the expansion of Hispanic Heritage Week to National Hispanic Heritage Month.

“The more you understand Hispanic heritage, the more you begin to understand what America is all about,” Coronado said at a Fort Sam Houston National Hispanic Heritage Month event in 2013. “Hispanic family values – honor, duty, integrity among them – have served the nation well.”

Maria Preda, Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph Equal Opportunity alternative dispute resolution manager, agrees with Coronado.

“It’s important for the Air Force to recognize National Hispanic Heritage Month because the Hispanic people have made great contributions to the Air Force and military at large, and it’s impor-tant for us to recognize those contributions and to educate people on that legacy.”

Hispanics have, indeed, made signifi cant contributions to all branches of military service, the U.S. Air Force included, in both civilian and military capacities.

Dr. Héctor P. García, a physician and decorated

World War II Army veteran, founded the American G.I. Forum to ensure that Hispanic veterans receive benefi ts provided under the G.I. Bill of Rights of 1944. Captain Manuel J. Fernandez Jr. is placed among the top Air Force aces of the two world wars and the Korean War combined for his combat victories. Retired Lt. Col. Olga E. Custodio became the fi rst Latina to complete Air Force military pilot training, the fi rst female T-38 instructor pilot and the fi rst Latina commercial airline captain upon retiring from the Air Force.

But contributions from the Hispanic community are not limited to military service.

Physicist Luis Walter Alvarez joined the Manhattan Project to develop the triggering device used in the fi rst nuclear bomb. Henry B. Gonzalez holds the longest fi libuster record (36 hours) in the history of the Texas Legislature fi ghting against seg-regation bills. Biochemist Severo Ochoa was the fi rst Hispanic to win a Nobel Prize in physiology for the synthesis of ribonucleic acid, or RNA, one of three necessary building blocks for life.

Preda went on to say, “History is rich with con-tributions from the Hispanic community but we are not a self-aggrandizing people; we are quiet when it comes to our achievement. That’s why this month is so important – it allows our voice to be heard so we are not forgotten.”

Preda has a saying she uses to describe the humble Hispanic nature: “Estamos tan numerosos y brillantes como las estrellas. Pero cuando aparece la luz del dia desaparecemos. We are so numerous and bright like the stars. But when daylight appears we disappear.”

Randolph Air Force base is known as the “Showplace of the Air Force“ because of the Spanish Colonial Revival Style architecture in which

all structures including hangars were constructed. The “Taj Mahal,“ building 100, is also one of the Air Force’s most famous buildings.

“We all pass these buildings every single day and admire them, yet we take for granted the culture and history that contributed to this beauty,” said Preda.

So what does this legacy mean for current Airman?

“I’m an American, but I’m also Hispanic and that’s always been something I’ve been proud of throughout my career as an Airman,” said Maj. Jonathan “Ganso” Gallego, 435th Flight Training Squadron instructor pilot.

“There aren’t many Hispanics in the fi ghter pilot community, so it’s helped me to stand out, especially on deployments,” Gallego continued. “The locals are quicker to trust if they feel they can relate to you in some way, but it’s also the differences that have helped with my fellow Airmen. Learning from each other’s differences has built trust and comradery in the units I’ve been in. It’s a long legacy of greatness I’m following and it’s a privilege and an honor to be a part of it.”

National Hispanic Heritage Month: as numerous as the stars

One of the best things about ICE is that people can let service providers know when they do a great job, not just for poor service.

It takes fi ve minutes or less to submit a comment at http://ice.disa.mil.


By Jose T. Garza IIIJBSA-Lackland Public Affairs

Walk into the side doors of the Airman’s Attic, located on 2240 Walker Ave., behind the 502nd Contracting Squadron building, and you see an assortment of adult clothing displayed.

The next room over is stocked with military uniforms and uniform accessories available to all Joint Base San Antonio military personnel, and the next area has three rooms for children’s items, household appliances and electronics.

Before renovations were underway Aug. 24, merchandise was scattered throughout the Attic and pathways were so narrow that customers with toddlers complained about stroller accessibility.

Floor renovations and merchandise rearrange-ment have Robin Atwell, Airman’s Attic manager, excited about the shop’s future. Renovations are scheduled for completion by Tuesday.

“Now that we have moved everything around, we can make available merchandise accessible to everyone,” she said. “I want people to feel comfort-able when they browse through our shop and treat it like it’s a store.”

Following renovations, there will be fi ve desig-nated rooms displaying each of the following items: military uniforms and uniform accessories, civilian adult clothing, children’s items, household appli-ances and electronics. All items are free to Joint Base San Antonio military personnel.

While the shop is temporarily closed, Atwell said she welcomes all volunteers to help arrange items but asks that they don’t bring children.

“We get a lot of people who want to volunteer at the Attic after doing it the fi rst time,” she said. “They get excited and want to come back here after they tell me they’ve been sitting behind a desk waiting to transition to their training classes.”

Operating hours will be from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Tuesdays and Wednesdays and every second Saturday of the month.

Individuals can visit the Lackland Airman’s Attic Facebook page or call 671-1780 for information on the shop’s renovation progress.

Airman’s Attic renovations make shopping more accessible to service members

Photos by Jose T. Garza III The children’s room of the Airman’s Attic is the last room undergoing fl oor renovations, which have been ongoing since Aug. 24. The purpose of the Airman’s Attic fl oor reno-vations and merchandise rearrangement is to make shop-ping more accessible for customers and their families, said Robin Atwell, Airman’s Attic manager.

Share your JBSA-Lackland photos with us by tagging us @JBSALackland

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Congratulations to the following 75 Airmen for being selected as honor graduates among the 759 Air Force basic military trainees who graduate today:

320th Training Squadron–Flight 599Michael Augustus Griffen Boll Kolton Copple David Delancey Benjamin Gallentine Matthew Helm Benjamin Le Patrick O’Hara Thomas Saville Kyle St. MichelJustin Weeks Morgan Whitten Stephen Yarbrough –Flight 600Brian Cairns Nacie Calarco Jackson Ciavardoni Timothy Danforth Jacob Dorn Christopher Hall Andrew Law Nicholas Mccue Ryan Payne Laurence Schwing Jared Varner Ainsley Varvel –Flight 601Adam Baird Coby Hyatt Stephen Olson Jacob Osweiler John Tucker –Flight 602Katherine Carlin Mackenzie Johnson

322nd Training Squadron–Flight 611Alan Elkins Jordan Murphy Johnny Shafer Gonzalez Wakefi eld Noah Young –Flight 612Logan Chlebowski Tyler Connolly

Robert Delancey Isaac Gibson Damian Hicks Kenneth Jones Matthew Perez Jordon Tillman –Flight 613Joseph Chambers Luke Ikeda Aleczandro Perez Vincent Salerno –Flight 614Kaitlyn Burgeson

323rd Training Squadron–Flight 603Noah Reid Joshua Wayment Kevin Weast –Flight 604Matthew Albonetti Austin Cole Christopher Cruz Chance Easley Nicholas Marcano Antonio Parker Brandon Williams –Flight 605Justin Auger Harrison Lane Benjamin Spector –Flight 606Kyrsten Crandall Raven Driftmyer Nicole Falcon Erica Schafer Espinoza Villafranco

331st Training Squadron–Flight 607Eric Guynn Cody Marett –Flight 608Michael Hirsch Jacob Van Bennekom–Flight 609Hunter Floury Douglas Knapp Ashley England

Top BMT Airman Kyrsten Crandall 323rd TRS, Flight 606

Most Physically Fit–Female AirmenBrittney Carvalho 320th TRS, Flight 602Raven Driftmyer 323rd TRS, Flight 606Emily Koranek 320th TRS, Flight 602Ashley England 331st TRS, Flight 610–Male AirmenMichael Augustus 320th TRS, Flight 599Logan Haldopoulos 320th TRS, Flight 601Trevor Pepin 320th TRS, Flight 601Griffen Boll 320th TRS, Flight 599

–Female Flights323rd TRS, Flight 606 320th TRS, Flight 602 322nd TRS, Flight 614 331st TRS, Flight 610–Male Flights320th TRS, Flight 599 320th TRS, Flight 600 320th TRS, Flight 601 323rd TRS, Flight 604 322nd TRS, Flight 613 331st TRS, Flight 608 331st TRS, Flight 609 331st TRS, Flight 607 322nd TRS, Flight 612 323rd TRS, Flight 603 322nd TRS, Flight 611 323rd TRS, Flight 605

Top Academic Flights322nd TRS, Flight 612 323rd TRS, Flight 604 320th TRS, Flight 600 320th TRS, Flight 599 323rd TRS, Flight 605 323rd TRS, Flight 603 320th TRS, Flight 601 322nd TRS, Flight 613 322nd TRS, Flight 611 323rd TRS, Flight 606 331st TRS, Flight 610331st TRS, Flight 607331st TRS, Flight 609331st TRS, Flight 608320th TRS, Flight 602322nd TRS, Flight 614

SEAT BELTS SAVE LIVES! BUCKLE UP AND WEAR YOURS!

TALESPINNER September 9, 2016 community

Air Force Aid Society 671-3722Airman & Family Readiness Center 671-3722Airman’s Attic 671-1780American Red Cross 844-4225Base 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 671-3608

Enlisted Spouses’ Club http://www.lacklandesc.orgForce Support Squadron http://www.lacklandfss.comLackland ISD http://www.lacklandisd.netOffi cers’ Spouses’ Club http://www.lacklandosc.orgJBSA Public website http://www.jbsa.milMy Air Force Life http://www.MyAirForceLife.com

JBSA-LACKLAND KEY FAMILY SUPPORT RESOURCES—PROTESTANT WORSHIP SERVICES

Freedom Chapel – Building 1528Contemporary Service Sun 9:30 a.m.

Religious Education Sun 11 a.m.

Gospel Service Sun 12:30 p.m.

Youth Ministry Mon 6 p.m.

—LITURGICAL SERVICEAirman Memorial Chapel – Building 5432 Sun 9:45 a.m

Religious Education Sun 10:45 a.m.

—CHURCH OF CHRISTPfi ngston – Building 6300 Sun 7:30 a.m. (Room 175)

—SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTGateway Chapel – Building 6300 Sat 12:30 p.m.

—CHRISTIAN SCIENCEPfi ngston – Building 6300 Sun 7:30 a.m. (Room 113)

—ORTHODOX CHRISTIANAirmen Memorial Chapel – Building 5432 Sun 8 a.m.

—PENTECOSTAL Religious Education Building – 6300 Sun 8 & 9:30 a.m. (Room. 112)

—WICCAPfi ngston – Building 6330 Sun 9 – 11 a.m. (Auditorium)

Freedom Chapel – Building 1528Open Circle 1st Tue 6 – 7 p.m.

—REFUGE STUDENT CENTERBuilding 9122 (Tech. Training & TDY Students) Wed 6 – 8 p.m.

Thu 6 – 8 p.m.

Fri 6 – 11 p.m.

Sat 12 – 9 p.m.

Sun 11 – 5 p.m.

—JEWISHAirmen Memorial Chapel – Building 5432Sabbath & Kiddush Fri 4:30 p.m.

Religious Education Sun 1:30 p.m.

—ROMAN CATHOLICFreedom Chapel – Building 1528Religious Education Sun 9 a.m.

Adult Religious Education Sun 9:15 – 10:15 a.m.

Mass Sat. 5:00 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.

Youth Ministry Sun 4 p.m.

Reconciliation Sat 4 – 4:45 p.m.

Note: Reconciliation(s) may be scheduled by appointment

—ISLAMICGlobal Ministry Center – Building 7452Jumu'ah Prayer Fri 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

—BUDDHISTPfi ngston – Building 6330 Sun 10:45 a.m. (Room 175)

—HINDU WORSHIP Gateway Chapel – Building 6300 1st, 3rd and 5th Sat 2 – 4 p.m. (Room 13)

—ECKANKAR Gateway Chapel – Building 6300 1st, 3rd and 5th Sat 12:30 p.m.

—BAHA'IGateway Chapel – Building 6300 1st, 3rd and 5th Sun. 11 a.m.

—THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTSGateway Chapel – Building 6300Religious Education Tue 6:30 p.m.

LDS Institute Thu 6:30 p.m.

LDS Service Sun 1 p.m.

—LUTHERAN CHURCH MISSOURI SYNODGateway Chapel – Building 6300 Every third Sun. 3:30 p.m.

CHAPEL SERVICES

For more details, contact Freedom Chapel at 671-4208 or Gateway Chapel at 671-2911

FRIDAYtroops to teachers

Troops to Teachers assists eligible military personnel in pursuit of teaching as a second career. Topics include counseling, referral and placement assistance, identifi es required certifi cations and employ-ment opportunities. It will be held 1-3:30 p.m. at the Military & Family Readiness Center, building 1249. Call 671-3722 for more information.

effective bullet Writing The 59th Medical Wing and

Gateway Performance System are hosting the professional develop-ment course “Building a Toolkit for Effective Bullet Writing: Painting a Performance Word Picture” 8 a.m. at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center’s Innovation Center, room 1C31. Register at https://cs3.eis.af.mil/sites/OO-ED-AE-25/Pathways/Registration/Registration.aspx. Walk-ins are welcomed.

SATURDAYrun for life 2016

Come dressed in a superhero cos-

tume for the 3.471-mile Run for Life race at the Gillum Fitness Center. Runners check in at 7 a.m. and the race starts at 8 a.m. Free “Run for Life” headbands will be handed out. Call 977-2353 for more information.

bag sale The Lackland Thrift Shop, located

in the One Stop Bldg. 5460, is hold-ing a bag sale. They are open 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Tuesday through Thursday and the second Saturday of the month. For more information, call 671-3608.

WEDNESDAYcar buying

Purchasing a new or used vehicle can be stressful. Following certain steps and conducting a little re-search can save individuals tens of thousands of dollars over the course of a lifetime. Knowing the facts, collecting the data and understand-ing the car purchasing process will help control the overall car buying experience. Air Force Federal Credit Union will facilitate this workshop 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Wilford Hall Surgical Ambulatory Center Annex, building 4600. Call 671-3722 for more information.

SEPT. 16single parent support group

A brown bag forum for both long- and short-term single parents to connect, share helpful resources, and ways to overcome challenges as a single parent. The Better Business Bureau will facilitate this month’s featured topic, “Adult Smart Consumer,” 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wilford Hall Surgical Ambulatory Center Annex, building 4600.

SEPT. 21employment Workshop

Review the federal employment process, resume writing techniques, interviewing skills and how to dress for success 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Military & Family Readiness Center, building 1249. Participants need to bring a copy of their current resume. Call 671-3722.

SEPT. 22 couponing

Individuals can learn how to reduce their grocery bill by review-ing tips for gathering and organiz-ing coupons. Participants to the workshop will discuss terms and local grocery store policies, maximize promotions, and more. It will be held

11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Wilford Hall Surgical Ambulatory Center Annex, building 4600. Call 671-3722.

preparing for the public speech dsst

The 59th Medical Wing and Gateway Performance System are hosting the professional development course Public Speech DSST 2 p.m. at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center’s Innovation Center, Room 1C31. Register at https://cs3.eis.af.mil/sites/OO-ED-AE-25/Pathways/Registration/Registration.aspx. Walk-ins are welcomed.

SEPT. 23hearts apart: connections over coffee

Spouses separated from their loved ones due to deployments and remote tours are welcomed to this monthly support group, Hearts Apart: Connections over Coffee, at 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The military and family life counselors will be hosting this month’s focus, “Reunion: it’s a process, not an event.” For the September meeting, there will be coffee and cake and attendees are invited to bring their favorite sweets to share. Register no later than Sept. 19 by calling 671-3722 or 671-3723.

SEPT. 29progressive discipline

The 59th Medical Wing and Gateway Performance System are hosting the professional develop-ment course Progressive Discipline at 2 p.m. at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center’s Innovation Center, Room 1C31. Register at https://cs3.eis.af.mil/sites/OO-ED-AE-25/Path-ways/Registration/Registration.aspx. Walk-ins are welcomed.

blue Zone living

This workshop will identify a demographic and geographic areas of the world where people live healthy and measurably longer lives. The concept grew out of demo-graphic work featured by National Geographic. Researchers zeroed in on a cluster of villages with the highest number of centenarians, they drew concentric blue circles on the map and began referring to the area inside the circle as the Blue Zone. Discussions will consist of the empirical data and fi rst hand observations, and explain why these populations live healthier and longer lives. It will be 9-10 a.m. at the Military & Family Readiness Center, building 1249. Call 671-3722.

LOCAL BRIEFS


By David DeKunderJBSA-Randolph Public Affairs

More than 750 schoolchildren received backpacks and school supplies collected during the sixth annual Build-a-Backpack Program drive sponsored by the Joint Base San Antonio School Liaison Office from July 25-Aug. 10.

Donations of 757 backpacks filled with school supplies and 15 boxes of additional school supplies benefited 757 children of active-duty members, retirees, Reservists and economically disadvantaged students in five area school districts surrounding JBSA locations, said Lori Phipps, JBSA-Lackland School Liaison Office military child education specialist.

The school liaison office distributed backpacks and school supplies to 126 military families with children in kindergarten through 12th grade the week before Aug. 22, the first day of school.

The 757 backpacks collected at several JBSA locations were the highest since the program started in 2010, surpassing the 600 collect-ed last year. Phipps said 15 volunteers helped out in distributing the backpacks and school supplies.

Phipps said she and Angela Green, JBSA- Randolph School Liaison Office military child educa-tion specialist, are overwhelmed by the response of

JBSA members who participated in the drive and volunteered.

“Mrs. Green and myself are humbled by the over-whelming generosity that JBSA has shown to our

military families in need and children in our local community,” she said.

The primary recipients of the backpacks and school supplies are schoolchildren of active-duty members who are deployed, on extended temporary duty or on a remote tour of duty.

JBSA members, groups, squadrons and units who donated backpacks and school supplies had the option of specifying the age group designation, grades Kindergarten-5 or 6-12, of the child they wanted to donate the items to and writing an en-couraging note to the child that was placed inside the backpack.

The children and their families appreciated the backpacks and school supplies that were donated to them by the JBSA community Green said.

“It was different expressions from huge smiles to tears of joy,” Green said.

JBSA members got fully behind the Build-a- Backpack Program drive Green said.

“This year the organizations and individuals who donated were generous and enthusiastic with their giving and supporting the event,” she said. “We got so many calls for this drive from folks who wanted to participate and be part of it. It was very successful.”

Since the Build-a-Backpack Program started six years ago, 3,257 schoolchildren have received back-packs and school supplies.

More than 750 schoolchildren benefit from JBSA backpack drive

Courtesy photo


By Robert GoetzJoint Base San Antonio-Randolph Public Affairs

Mission readiness depends on many factors, including the emotional health of military members’ families.

A program offered throughout the Department of Defense, including Air Force installations worldwide, strengthens families through its mission of prevent-ing maltreatment and supporting readiness and retention.

“The stated goal of the Air Force Family Advocacy Program is to promote both readiness and fam-ily wellness by enhancing the health, welfare and morale of Air Force families,” said Angela Nance, 359th Medical Operations Squadron Family Advocacy Program intervention specialist.

At Joint Base San Antonio-Randolph and other JBSA locations, the FAP strives for family wellness through intervention in response to reports of maltreatment; the New Parent Support Program, which offers expectant parents and parents of new-born and young children under the age of 3 the opportunity to learn or improve parenting skills; and community outreach, a range of briefi ngs, classes and services that focus on prevention.

As intervention specialist, Nance responds to reports of child and spouse or intimate partner mal-treatment involving active-duty members and their families.

“Cases can be referred by anyone – the medical clinic, a neighbor, a commander, an active-duty member and others,” she said. “Anyone can report a case, and can do so anonymously. We have a number of case – physical, emotional and sexual abuse – so it’s a needed resource here.”

When a report of suspected maltreatment is received, Nance consults with the 359th MDOS Family Advocacy offi cer to determine if the case meets the criteria for the FAP to look further into the allegations.

“If it meets criteria, the initial appointment with everyone in the family is made through the fi rst sergeant or commander,” she said. “The family will then come in for an assessment – we are not here to investigate – to see what services are needed or how the FAP can assist the family regarding the allega-tions. Each family member will be seen separately by the Family Advocacy intervention specialist.”

The case then goes to the FAP’s Central Registry Board, a multidisciplinary team that determines whether maltreatment occurred, Nance said.

“If the case does not meet criteria, the case will be closed with services recommended, if needed,” she said. “If the case meets criteria, the family will be asked to return to the FAP to see what services the alleged offender can get involved in so that this

issue will no longer be a problem.“Services are also offered to the victim,” Nance

said. “Once all of the recommended services have been completed, the case will be closed as resolved.”

The FAP’s New Parent Support Program enhances readiness by helping couples who are expecting a child or have young children adapt to parenthood.

“The program ensures military members can focus on the mission while their families’ needs are being met,” said Audrey Thompson, 359th MDOS NPSP nurse.

The main focus of the NPSP is a voluntary home visitation program.

“Because it’s offered in the privacy of their home, parents will be more comfortable,” she said.

Thompson provides education on pregnancy and infant development, while a social worker addresses relationship counseling, stress management, depres-sion, behavioral issues with older children and other topics. They are also available to answer parents’ questions about a variety of topics – from pregnancy and baby care to relationships and stress.

Other topics that are discussed include safety, nu-trition, child rearing and improving parenting skills.

Thompson typically spends an hour every two weeks with families who enroll in the program, but she said the needs of families determine the number of visits they require. Families and couples may visit her at her offi ce in building 860, where they also have access to books, booklets, DVDs and other materials on parenting.

Another component of the NPSP is child car seat safety.

Connie Wilson, 359th MDOS Family Advocacy Program assistant and senior certifi ed child passen-ger safety technician, presents two classes, “Car Seat 101” and “Curbside Car Seat Clinic,” that focus on safety.

In Car Seat 101, she educates parents and ex-pectant parents on state laws regarding child safety restraints and gives them the tools to know if a car seat is safe, fi ts their child and vehicle and is easy to use. During the curbside clinic, Wilson shows parents how to install a seat correctly.

Prevention is another focus of the Family Advocacy Program.

“We focus heavily on prevention so that the treat-ment side is minimal,” said Gina Ramirez, 359th MDOS outreach/resiliency coordinator. “As we gear up for the new school year, September focuses on the parent-child relationship with the classes ‘Active Parenting of Teens,’ ‘Dangers of Social Media,’ ‘Fit Mom’ and ‘Infant Massage.’ These classes all are designed to enhance communication and strengthen the bond of parent and child.”

Other classes scheduled for this month are a marital enhancement class, “Lasting Intimacy through Knowledge and Skills,” or LINKS; as well as “Stress and Time Management” and “Master Your Emotions.”

FAP professionals also provide outreach through briefi ngs to commanders, fi rst sergeants, squadrons and other organizations, Nance said.

“We talk about our program and who we are,” she said.

Emphasis months are another form of the FAP’s outreach efforts, Nance said.

“We focus on domestic violence awareness in October, teen dating violence awareness in February and child abuse awareness in April,” she said.

For additional information on the FAP, call the JBSA-Randolph offi ce at 652-6308, the JBSA-Lackland offi ce at 292-5967 or the JBSA-Fort Sam Houston offi ce at 539-6350.

Program enhances mission readiness by strengthening military member’s families

FOSTER a PUPPYThe Department of Defense Dog Breed-ing Program needs families to foster puppies for three months. Potential foster families need: time and patience to raise a puppy age 12 weeks to six months, a stimulating and safe home environment, and a desire to help raisea military working dog.

The Department of Defense Dog Breed-ing Program needs families to foster The Department of Defense Dog Breed-ing Program needs families to foster The Department of Defense Dog Breed-

puppies for three months. Potential ing Program needs families to foster puppies for three months. Potential ing Program needs families to foster

foster families need: time and patience puppies for three months. Potential foster families need: time and patience puppies for three months. Potential

to raise a puppy age 12 weeks to six foster families need: time and patience to raise a puppy age 12 weeks to six foster families need: time and patience

months, a stimulating and safe home to raise a puppy age 12 weeks to six months, a stimulating and safe home to raise a puppy age 12 weeks to six

environment, and a desire to help raisemonths, a stimulating and safe home environment, and a desire to help raisemonths, a stimulating and safe home

a military working dog.environment, and a desire to help raisea military working dog.environment, and a desire to help raise

Call 671-3686

Courtesy photo


By 502nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs

Two articulate, self-confident Air Force, Air Force Reserve or Air National Guard members are needed to serve as military ambassadors at community events to rep-resent Joint Base San Antonio in 2017.

One male and one female ambassador are chosen each year to represent the Air Force at many community events and pro-mote the military’s commitment and rela-tionship with the local communities around South Texas.

“The program strengthens Joint Base San Antonio’s relationship with the local com-munity while educating the public about the Air Force,” said Bill Gaines, 502nd Air Base Wing Public Affairs at JBSA-Fort Sam Houston civic outreach chief.

“The ambassadors are given the op-portunity to showcase the professionalism and skills of the Air Force while fostering a positive rapport in the community.”

All E-4 to E-7 Air Force members, 21 years old and older and assigned to JBSA are eligible to apply to be a military ambassador. Nomination packages will be distributed to public affairs offices across JBSA Sept. 5.

Once nominated, candidates appear before a selection board of chief master sergeants and former Air Force ambassa-dors. The selection panel reviews applica-tions, conducts interviews and selects the ambassadors.

Nomination deadline is Oct. 3. For more information, call 808-0002.

Air Force military ambassador program accepting applications

Photo by Melissa PetersonTech. Sgt. Steven Nowicki and Tech. Sgt. Jacqueline Crow, 2016 Air Force military ambassadors, speak with veteran Rodrick Killebrew and his wife Gloria while presenting a valentine card during the 2016 National Salute to Veteran Patients program Feb. 19 at Audie Murphy Veteran’s Administration Hospital in San Antonio. The military ambassadors and Joint Base San Antonio military leaders were on hand to distribute valentines and visit with veteran patients. Veterans’ administration facilities across the United States pay tribute to veteran patients annually during this week-long salute.

By Jose T. Garza IIIJBSA-Lackland Public Affairs

Burnie Roper, Lackland Independent School District superintendent, credits the district’s principals and teachers for it receiving passing grades in meeting state accountability ratings for the 2015-2016 academic year.

According to results released Aug. 15, Lackland ISD received an 85 score out of 100 for meeting Texas state standards based on four measures: how students fared on the State of Texas Assessment of Academic Readiness, or STAAR test; progress students made from one year to the next; whether schools are narrowing the achievement gap with low-income and minority stu-dents; and students preparation for higher education.

Texas designates schools that fail to meet standards with an “improvement required” mark.

“Teachers are on the front lines and teaching chil-dren every single day,” Roper said. “The principals are the ones who are supporting the teachers with what they need to get things done in the classroom. Everyone associated with our district has a role and our district

staff tries to provide teachers with what they need to be successful in teaching our children.”

The superintendent touted the district’s 1:1 iPad program as one of the main resources that kept children educationally engaged throughout the school year. Roper recalled witnessing students utilizing the iPad to create their own video games. The program allows teachers to distribute iPads to students for the purpose of working on individual and collaborative projects at their own pace and present and share it with their peers.

Roper believes the device and other training tools help students be “future ready,” which is displayed on his work badge.

“It’s our job to prepare students for the future,” he said.

Despite the district’s success, there is room for im-provement in some subject areas, Roper said.

Lackland ISD took some dips in social studies and history last year and Roper expects educators to focus on improvement in those areas.

“What our schools will do throughout the year is

look back at last year’s STAAR test and evaluate how well our teachers are teaching the test’s concepts,” he said. “We will look at data and know where we need to improve. We need to maintain success in areas we’ve done well in while working on those areas that need improvement by making sure our classrooms are filled with engaged students.”

Roper is optimistic the district will continue to flourish this academic year under it’s recent organiza-tional changes.

Lackland ISD recently hired Dr. Tonya Hyde, former principal at Fort Sam Houston ISD, as the new assistant superintendent of curriculum and instruction. William Shelby, former Stacey High School assistant princi-pal, was promoted to principal while Michelle Tarvin, former Southwest ISD assistant principal, will assume Shelby’s former role as vice principal. In addition, Amber Greeness, former Lackland ISD athletic director, was also promoted to be Lackland Elementary School’s assistant vice principal.

“We have a good staff in place and we will do great things for our kids,” Roper said.

Lackland ISD receives passing grade in state accountability standards

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