VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. (AFNS) — As an area defense counsel in the Air Force, it is my job to represent Airmen who get into legal or administrative trouble and I love my job. I have spent the majority of my legal career as an attorney representing people in trouble, both as a civilian…

The next phase of “Preparing to Survive” is building an emergency kit. There are many sources of information on state and federal websites that provide basic recommendations on the contents of kits; however, keep in mind these are general suggestions. A standard kit should be complimented with personal supplies that will increase your family’s chances…

Summer months bring outdoor fun in the sun, but they can also bring unwanted skin issues such as sunburn, freckles and skin cancer. The solution for these problems is to apply sunscreen. Sunscreen protects skin and fights the development of skin cancer. It’s important that beneficiaries take precautions out in the sun year-round. Both sunburn…

If you or your child participates in sports or other recreational activities, you know the importance of protective gear. Wearing protective gear is essential for safe play and shielding fragile body parts from severe damage and injuries. One good way to protect your teeth is by wearing an athletic mouthguard during any activity that could…

FALLS CHURCH, Va. — New co-payments for prescription drugs covered by TRICARE will go into effect soon. The Fiscal Year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act requires TRICARE to increase co-pays on brand name and non-formulary medications that are not filled at military clinics or hospitals. There is no increase to co-pays for generic medications. Increases…

ROBINS AIR FORCE BASE, Ga. — There’s a new Air Force Reserve Wingman Toolkit website. The site has a new look and tools, but the same mission as the old Wingman Project website: to provide Citizen Airmen and their families with everything they need to be resilient wingmen. “The Wingman Toolkit is your training center…

As with any major earthquake, the damage will be substantial and the recovery process lengthy. Daily routines will be severely impacted; therefore, being able to sustain basic needs, such as maintaining food and water supplies, will become significant events, requiring managing by all survivors. Now, would be a good time to examine what stored supplies…

Summer is upon us and for some of our Airmen that means a lot of vacation travel time with the family. While some choose to fly to their destinations, others opt for the classic road trip, especially if they are traveling with infants or toddlers. To ensure the safety of our small children while driving,…

KIRTLAND AIR FORCE BASE, N.M. — In fiscal year 2012, the Air Force lost 18 Airmen due to motorcycle mishaps. Eleven of those 18 operators were found to be at fault. Additionally, there were two Private Motor Vehicle-Motorcycle mishaps resulting in permanent total disability. More than 200 motorcycle mishaps (Class A, B, C and D)…