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Warrior Care Month—Show of Strength

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The mission of the Office of Warrior Care Policy (WCP) is to proactively support wounded, ill, and injured service members in their recovery and reintegration or transition to civilian life.

On November 5, 2008, then Secretary of Defense Robert F. Gates established November as Warrior Care Month. He said Warrior Care Month is a, “DOD-wide effort aimed at increasing awareness of programs and resources available to wounded, ill, and injured service members, their families, and those who care about them.”

This month, the Military Health System highlights programs, services and resources available to wounded, ill and injured service members, their families and caregivers.

Riding camels in Egypt and how to be a safe and prepared tourist

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Courtesy photo

“Would you like to come and visit me in Cairo?” My friend had been teaching in Egypt the past year when she invited me. A trip to Egypt?! I imagined myself dressed in a flowy garment, riding a camel next to the date palm-lined banks of the Nile. The stuff of dreams! As a member of the Air Force Reserve, I have had opportunities to travel overseas in an official capacity, but this would be my first international grand vacation! I excitedly told my husband about our plans and he asked, “Is it safe?”

To set his mind at ease, I did some research.

I started my trip planning at www.travel.state.gov. Here I found current travel alerts and warnings as well as passport and visa requirements, local laws, transportation, recommended vaccinations, health tips, and a useful travel checklist. I also visited the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) at step.state.gov/step, to register with the local U.S. Embassy to receive information about safety conditions and also make it easier to be contacted in an emergency.

As a reservist, I was able to take advantage of the Force Protection ancillary computer-based training, which provides additional tips for staying safe while traveling abroad.

The CBT encourages you to try to blend in with the local populace, conceal your military affiliation, avoid public disturbances or political demonstrations, and to be careful about posting travel plans on social media.

With my western European ancestry, chances are I wouldn’t blend in very well in Egypt, but I could take safety precautions and be respectful of Egyptian culture.

My friend said I should bring conservative clothing to wear in Egypt, so I packed long skirts, flowy blouses, a sun hat, and a scarf to cover my head for visiting religious sites. Keeping in mind that the weather would be extremely hot, I packed accordingly. She also gave me contact numbers and told me about how to get my visa upon arrival.

Thanks to all the research and preparation, I had a wonderful adventure, stayed safe, and waited until I had returned before posting photos online.

Traveling abroad can be a wonderful experience with opportunities to see historical sites, sample delicious new foods, and learn about different cultures. Spending time to prepare for your trip will ensure you also have a safe, fun, and hopefully, amazing time!

To learn more about safe travels, visit travel.state.gov and search for the U.S. State Department Traveler’s Checklist.

News Briefs 11/13/15

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CORRECTION – AF EXTENDS SARC SERVICES TO CIVILIANS

In the October 30, 2015 issue of The Beacon, page 6, we ran a photo to go with the story titled “Change in Policy: AF extends sexual assault prevention and response service to civilians.” The photo caption should read, “Civilian employees – both appropriated and non-appropriated – who are victims of sexual assault ARE allowed to file restricted and unrestricted report with their installation’s sexual assault response coordinator.” We apologize for the error.

BENFEDS OPEN SEASON BEGAN NOVEMBER 9

The 2015 Federal Benefits Open Season (for the 2016 plan year) runs from Monday, Nov. 9, through Monday, Dec. 14. If you are enrolled in the Federal Employee Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) plan, it will automatically continue into the 2016 plan year, even if you retire. You must take action if you wish to make changes or cancel. Visit BENEFEDS.com to check the 2016 premium amounts, research plan coverage and/or make changes. For general questions, visit the Education & Support section at BENEFEDS.com.

SARC HOSTS FREE MIND BODY RESILIENCY CLASSES

Are you interested in learning more about the Mind and Body connection and how this can promote better overall health? Then come join the interactive and informational series of one-hour classes based on the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine’s Resilient Warrior. Classes are scheduled on the A and B Unit Training Assemblies through September 2016. Topics for the six-part series include

– Stress Reactions and Relaxation Response

– Getting Good Sleep

– Mindfulness and a Positive State of Mind

– Yin and Yang of Resiliency

– Yoga & Journaling

– Social Connections & Communication

Time and Location:

UTA Sundays, 11 a.m. – noon

Bldg. 470, room 205   

Contact frank.pavone@us.af.mil or 655-4551 for more information. No reservation required.

REGISTER FOR YELLOW RIBBON EVENTS

Upcoming dates for Yellow Ribbon events are Nov. 20-22; Dec. 18-20; Jan. 29-31; Feb 19-21; and Mar 18-20. The December Yellow Ribbon is now open for registration for eligible members. For more formation, contact 1st Lt. Shelley Lawrence, your 452nd Air Mobility Wing Yellow Ribbon representative, for details at 951-655-4615.

MANDATORY FLU VACCINATIONS

The 452 AMW Flu Vaccination Campaign has begun, and will continue through the December’s UTAs. The Flu vaccination is mandatory for all Airmen unless exempted by medical staff. Airmen not current with their Flu vaccination after the December UTAs will potentially be placed in a no-point, no-pay status.

Please remind your fellow Airmen to attend our mass immunization site at Bldg. 355 (2355 Graeber St.) during the November UTA.

Mass immunization will be Saturday, Nov. 21, 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

A mobile vaccination site will be at the Wing Commander’s Call on Sunday, Nov. 22.

Starting in December, all Flu vaccinations will be given at the base clinic.

All Airmen, Unit Health Monitors and leaders are asked to get their annual Flu vaccination at the earliest convenience, and to encourage others to do the same. Help make this year’s Flu Campaign a success. There is no vaccine available for civilians at this time. For questions or concerns, email Maj. David Haupt at david.haupt.7@us.af.mil.

BACK STREET TRANSFORMATION

The Hap Arnold Club is looking for “Team March” specific items/memorabilia to decorate the walls of the new Backstreet Café! Bring items to Bldg. 434, administration office. Any unused items will be returned. Call 951-655-2801 for more information.

NAF TEAM JOBS AVAILABLE

Non-appropriated jobs are available at various locations throughout the USAF. View available positions at www.NAFJobs.org.

INSTALLATION VOTING ASSISTANCE OFFICER

With the onslaught of political debates in the news, it’s time to consider your right to vote. Are you registered? Do you understand military and federal employee guidelines for participating in a political rally or event? Are your social media postings getting political? The March Air Reserve Base Installation Voting Assistance Officer, Maj. Jessica Ditson, can help you find the information you need. She can be reached at Jessica.ditson@us.af.mi l or by calling 951-655-4551. Don’t wait until your state’s deadline to register. Choose to make your vote count!

MARCH EQUAL OPPORTUNITY SEEKS COUNSELORS

The March EO office is looking for ARTs/civilians interested in training to serve as Collateral Equal Opportunity counselors. This is an additional duty appointment. The Collateral EO counselors serve as a bridge between civilian employees and management for informal complaints concerning discrimination. Applicants should be at ease with oral and written communication to all pay grades, and have the ability to remain neutral while performing his or her duties. The additional duty will not exceed 20 percent of the counselor’s primary job duties. Applicants range from GS-05 to GS-12 or equivalent. Primary supervisor concurrence required. Training is required, date/time to be determined. If interested, contact Ms Paula Greenhaw, paula.greenhaw@us.af.mil, Maj. Nixomar Santiago, nixomar.santiago@us.af.mil.

HAP ARNOLD CLUB

The Back Street Café is temporarily operating in the Grande Ballroom at the Hap Arnold Club and serving breakfast and lunch.  Most of your Back Street favorites are available, such as breakfast burritos, French toast, fried chicken, March Burger, salmon sandwich and more!  Download the full menu with pricing at MarchFSS.com. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday: 6:30-10 a.m. for breakfast and 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. for lunch.

UTA operating hours are 5:30-9 a.m. for breakfast (Sat & Sun); 11-1 p.m. for lunch (Sat & Sun), and 4-8 p.m. for dinner (Fri & Sat).

MARCH TICKETS & TOURS

Amusement Park Specials

Castle Park: $16 per person includes unlimited rides, water park access, miniature golf and the new Sky Rider.

Disney 3-Day Park Hopper military special: $130 per person (adult/child)

SeaWorld “Waves of Honor” special: Extended through November 11, 2015. Program provides a one-time, limited, free admission to SeaWorld San Diego per veteran service member and up to three guests. Visit WavesofHonor.com to register for and obtain your free admissions. Additional tickets are available for purchase from the Tickets & Tours office.

Discount Movie Tickets

Available for only $10 each and valid for Regal Cinemas, United Artists Theatres and Edwards Cinemas.

Hotel Discounts

Receive 10% off any Best Western and 15% off any Choice Hotel

Visit the Tickets & Tours page at MarchFSS.com and download the Discount Ticket Price List for a full list of discounts tickets prices, hotel discounts and special promotions. Call Tickets & Tours at 951-655-4123 for more information.

LEARN TO FLY WITH THE AERO CLUB

The March Aero Club offers flight training (flying, private license, ground school, instrument training) at very reasonable rates including a pay-as-you-go plan with zero down. Visit Hangar 355 on base or call 951-655-3875 for more information.

OUTDOOR REC EQUIPMENT RENTALS

Outdoor Recreation has a variety of equipment for rent such as camping gear, water sports equipment, bicycles, and trailers to carry it all! Special orders for Callaway, Odyssey, Cleveland, Never Compromise, Nike, Bag Boy, Sun Mountain and Staff golf equipment are also available.  Download the full equipment rental price list at MarchFSS.com, call 951-655-2816 or come on by for more information.

BACK STREET CAFÉ TEMPORARILY OPERATING IN BALLROOM

Breakfast and lunch are available in the club’s Grande Ballroom. Most of your Back Street favorites are available such as Breakfast Burritos, French toast, fried chicken, March Burger, salmon sandwich and more! Download the full menu with pricing at MarchFSS.com. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 6:30-10 a.m. for breakfast; 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. for lunch. UTA operating hours are 5:30-9 a.m. for breakfast (Sat & Sun); 11-1 p.m. for lunch (Sat & Sun), and 4-8 p.m. for dinner (Fri & Sat).

FITNESS CENTER NEWS

The March Fitness Center has received the Wellbeats Virtual Group Fitness Kiosk. This kiosk allows members to participate in virtual fitness classes.

Daily Fitness Schedule is:

Mondays: 6 a.m. — Virtual Fusion Yoga; 10:30 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. — Intro TRX; 11 a.m. —Virtual Spin

Tuesdays: 11 a.m. — Virtual Strength “Fit for Duty;” 12:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. — Circuit Training

Wednesdays: 6 a.m. — Virtual Fusion Yoga; 11 a.m. — Zumba; 12:15 p.m. — Virtual Fusion Yoga; 12:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. — Battle Ropes Circuit Training

Thursdays: 11 a.m. —Virtual Spin; 12:15 p.m. — Virtual Strength “Fit for Duty;” 12:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. — Circuit Training

Fridays: 10 a.m. — Zumba; 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. — Intermediate TRX; 11:15 a.m. — Virtual Cardio

UTA Saturdays: (A UTA) 5 p.m. — Virtual Strength “Fit for Duty;” (B UTA) 5-7 p.m. — Pick-up Basketball

Call the Fitness & Sports center at 951-655-2292 to sign up or for more information on these programs.

GRILL NIGHT AT SALLY’S ALLEY

Every Wednesday night starting at 4 p.m., Sally’s Alley is open for business with Grill Night. Sally’s Alley is also now open every Pre-UTA Thursday at 4 p.m. For more information, call them at 951-653-2121.

THE TEAM MARCH 2015 MILITARY BALL

The Team March 2015 Military Ball is scheduled for Saturday, November 21. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with cocktails at 6 p.m. and seating at 6:30 p.m. This year’s location remains the Riverside Convention Center, and this year’s theme is “Winter Wonderland.” This will be a fantastic evening and one you do not want to miss. Ticket prices dropped to $60 per person. See your squadron rep (listed in this issue) to purchase tickets or contact MSgt. Devin at 951-655-5945. There are still rooms available at the Hyatt Place for $105 each (the Hyatt Place price includes breakfast) listed under 452nd Air Mobility Wing 2015 Military Ball. You can contact The Hyatt Place at 1-888-553-1300 or (951)321-3500.

Telling the Reserve story, it’s what we do

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U.S. Air National Guard photo/Master Sgt. Julie Avey

MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE, Calif. – Public Affairs (PA) can partly be defined as issues that affect people. On November 2-4, PA staff from Fourth Air Force wings around the country came together at the numbered Air Force headquarters here to discuss their own career field for a change. The 4AF PA Conference was a time to improve PA skills, enhance PA processes, network, and share PA-community knowledge. 

“One purpose of the public affairs Airman is to tell the story of the Airmen assigned to their unit and the Air Force,” said Staff Sgt. Adam Borgman of the 927th Air Refueling Wing, MacDill Air Force Base, Florida. “Gen Flournoy (Maj. Gen. John C. Flournoy, Jr., 4AF commander) giving us his time during the conference allowed us to ask questions and give him feedback on our ability to complete our missions,” Borgman said. “With this line of communication, it better allows us all to understand the strategic communication plan from commanders, which helps better tell our unit’s story while supporting the big picture.”

Building stronger relationships between the Air Force Reserve Command PA office and the wing PA offices to better tell the Air Force Reserve story is the hope of Col. Bruce Bender, AFRC Public Affairs director. “Through these relationships will come greater collaboration and synchronization of communication efforts toward a common goal of greater public support and advocacy for the Air Force Reserve,” he said.

Bender added that it is critical for wing commanders to provide leadership and support to their wing PA shops.  “Now more than ever, we need to tell our Air Force Reserve story loud and proud,” Bender said. “It is vital that commanders provide the access and expertise as well as leadership to subordinate commanders to enable an effective communication process.”

During the conference Flournoy spoke to the public affairs Airmen on several topics to include the need for continuously telling the story of Airmen doing great things in all career fields. He encouraged them to reach out to each other and share their expertise.

“The conference has been very beneficial for the public affairs Airmen,” said Borgman. “With PA members from all around the Fourth Air Force in one room, we were able to discuss our best practices.”

“Hearing straight from General Flournoy, the two-star here, and hearing what his vision is and the importance of PA,” said Maj. Stan Paregien, public affairs chief, 932nd Airlift Wing, Scott AFB, Illinois. “He understands the importance of communications through PA. He is putting his money where his mouth is and bringing us all out here to be a part of this,” Paregien continued. “This will help us go back to our units and push the key messages from Fourth Air Force down to the bottom.”

In addition to communication, the public affairs professionals were provided the opportunity to learn new techniques to do their jobs and also network to continue community-building amongst their strong public affairs teams throughout the country.

“I wasn’t sure what to expect when I was gearing up to come here, to be honest,” said Capt. Bernie Kale, public affairs chief, 512th Airlift Wing, Dover AFB, Delaware, and former journalist for ABC and CBS News. “I knew it would be beneficial, but now that I’m here I am realizing you can’t put a price on having face-to-face interaction with other PA’s. That alone is more than worth the trip across the country.”

The conference included training on scripting and production of short video clips to highlight Airmen and missions in order to share internal and external information to several different audiences. They also discussed the Unit Public Affairs Representative program as a means of reaching out to every Airman to help tell the Air Force Reserve story. Other topics of discussion were developing communication plans, and crisis communication.

Networking and sharing processes were reoccurring themes throughout the training. Social media was discussed as far as metrics, numbers, and facts on how quickly and globally information travels.

“I have learned that kindness and gratefulness go a very long way in life, and in our career field. If I find any photo or story of our reservists on an active duty or civilian website, I will reach out to them and thank them for mentioning us in their story,” said Kale. “After a few times of that, those same people will start to send me photos or stories of my reservists on their own to let me use it for our website and social media. It’s that nice little positive feedback that lets them know that we truly appreciate the effort they put into mentioning us in their story content.”

Participants learned to be more involved in improvement initiatives, training courses, strategic planning, and the strategic planning review council referred to as “SPARK,” to keep all initiatives visible and moving, allowing PA members the ability to help reservists understand the messages, as well as inform them of wing initiatives.

“Currently, Career Development Courses (CDCs) for public affairs are seven volumes and include one test for all seven volumes cumulatively,” said Chief Master Sgt. Bill Goben, functional manager, Air Force Reserve Command Public Affairs. “The PA enlisted CDCs for broadcaster and photojournalist are currently under revision and are projected to be released in early 2016.”

The CDCs, on-the-job-training and training courses were discussed. Ideas were shared on training for new Airmen, and those who have had to merge from still photography to photojournalist (without formal journalistic training) or videography to broadcasting (without formal broadcast training).

Bender spoke about future “Force Mix Options” and the plans to align the needs of each career field within Reserve, Guard and regular Air Force. He said it is being worked at the Pentagon in all career fields by The Total Force Continuum office there. The Secretary of the Air Force and Chief of Staff (of the Air Force are tasked with reviewing every career field in the Air Force for potential efficiencies and cost savings that may be gained from a greater use of the Guard and Reserve enterprise, said Bender. The TFC office is required to finish the tasker by the end of 2015, then the TFC leadership will brief the Secretary with the results, he said. The Secretary will then make a determination on what is the best “Force Mix Option” for the Air Force.

“I took every opportunity to tell our Air Force Reserve story to the internal audience during my assignment in the Pentagon,” Bender said. “The Air Force Reserve is often misunderstood and also confused with the Guard. As a result, it is key to reach the internal audience, which in turn facilitated greater exposure to the external audience.”

Public Affairs Guidance provided by Air Force headquarters at the Pentagon, through AFRC, and the personal interaction we have with the AFRC is beneficial, said Paregien. That personal interaction helps Reserve PA officers, enlisted and civilians know what is coming down from the Pentagon so they can craft the message to their own offices and wings. “We can also be able to tell our reservists what is coming up and how to plan for the future,” Paregien said.

Chances to deploy, support active duty missions stateside, and overall career opportunities were shared by Bender and Goben. They also shared public affairs trends, tactics, and future operations.

It is so important to gather together with Air Force Reserve PA leaders to learn from each other, foster greater collaboration and build relationships, Bender said. “This is a magical experience not duplicated or emulated with the use of video teleconference or phone conference. We must look each other in the eyes and express our interest in each other’s perspective and expertise to gain the most benefit from the collaboration process.”

Identity theft, cybercrime and you

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Ten years as a fraud investigator for a major financial institution, I can say I have seen every way to scam or commit fraud involving financial transactions.

What is fraud?  Fraud is defined by dictionary.reference.com as a deceit, trickery, sharp practice, or breach of confidence, perpetrated for profit or to gain some unfair or dishonest advantage.

According to the Bureau of Justice Statistics on their website, an estimated 17.6 million peeople, or about 7 percent of U.S. residents age 16 or older, were victims of at least one incident of identity theft in 2014. These statistics were similar to those in 2012.

The above stated fact deals with all financial services for the U.S. population. The statistics prove that you will be a victim of identity theft at least once in your adult life. You might think that you have all angles covered and there is no way to become a victim of identity theft. Think again.

I thought the same until the day I was traveling, on orders, to March Air Reserve Base. I used my Government Travel Card and attempted to buy gas for the trip. The transaction was declined. I contacted the bank’s travel card customer service number, which is located on the back of the card, only to be told that I was a victim of identity theft.

The unknown suspect bought products and services overseas the same day I was traveling. It appears my card was skimmed (an unauthorized device placed on a debit or credit card reader to record the transaction for later use by the suspect) sometime during my travel and that was all that was needed to start the fraud activity.

Although I was inconvenienced, had to notify my chain of command and write a statement of facts that I had not used the card for any unauthorized transactions, I was not at a loss. Imagine if the suspect had all my financial information. It could take YEARS to recover from the incident.

Other fraud is hard to prevent and is out of your hands and does occur. For example the Office of Personnel Management (OPM) was a victim to a server breach and the incident public release stated the following through opm.gov, “In June 2015, OPM discovered that the background investigation records of current, former, and prospective Federal employees and contractors had been stolen. The OPM and the interagency incident response team have concluded with high confidence, that sensitive information, including the social security numbers of 21.5 million individuals, was stolen from the background investigation databases. This includes 19.7 million individuals that applied for a background investigation, and 1.8 million non-applicants, primarily spouses or co-habitants of applicants. Some records also include findings from interviews conducted by background investigators and approximately 5.6 million include fingerprints. Usernames and passwords that background investigation applicants used to fill out their background investigation forms were also stolen.”

In this situation, all that can be done is damage control and review of credit reports. But you do have some control in this situation. According to the OPM, the following actions were provided by the federal government to affected parties to limit the damage of the breach:

1. Identity monitoring

2. Credit monitoring

3. Identity restoration services

4. Identity theft insurance

You might still be thinking, ‘How can I protect myself from fraud?’

You should follow these common practices for your financial identity:

1. Never respond to text messaging, phone calls, emails or any other means where an unknown person asks for your personal and financial information. The suspect will use varied techniques including threats of arrest to obtain your information. When in doubt, contact your financial institution directly using the customer service number on the back of your debit or credit card or the number on your financial statements, or go to your nearest banking facility to verify the concern. A financial institution will have ways to verify the person you are speaking to as well as to verify you.

2. Never use your online banking service from a profile on your computer that you use to surf the Internet, download freeware, visit websites that provide file-sharing services or any other activity that can expose your system to adware, viruses and malware. Use a separate profile on your computer for banking, such as a guest profile.

3. Be sure to close your web pages and clear the cookies and history information each time you log out of your banking institution’s website, to ensure no other person can access your online banking service.

4. Ensure your system has updated virus protection and the most current updates for your operating system.

5. Use additional security protection that was offered by your financial institution including text, and email notifications.

6. Ensure you check all of your financial accounts on a regular basis to ensure there has not been any recent fraud activity. If fraud activity is found, notify your financial institution immediately.  Cooperate with the investigation and provide all documents in a timely manner.

7. Don’t become an unknowing participant in the fraud scheme by giving your account information for an online job, or an online “friend” you have never met or any other type of activities that another person would solicit your financial institution.

8. Don’t accept unsolicited funds, checks, money orders, or cashier’s checks from friends or family, especially if there seems to be no reason to receive those funds. Remember all transactions processed through your account makes YOU liable. You could wind up owing the financial institution, such as when a check is deposited, then funds are removed and the check returned as fraud. Just remember, if it seems too easy or too good to be true, then chances are it is.

9. Become aware of the varied types of fraud activity and scams that occur.

10. Never let someone use your account, debit or credit cards unless they are authorized and a joint owner. If fraud occurs, and they are not a joint owner, you will be liable due to your implied consent if you provided the information or instrument for use by the other person.

The world of fraud does seem a challenge but can be managed and your risk can be reduced if you are proactive in your personal and financial identity.

Nov: National American Indian Heritage Month

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National American Indian and Alaska Native Heritage Month celebrates and recognizes the accomplishments of the original inhabitants, explorers, and settlers of the United States.

This presentation reviews the historical milestones that led to the establishment of National American Indian Heritage Month, covers various aspects of American Indian and Alaska Native life, and honors the contributions of our Native Service Members.

The Society of American Indian Government Employees has chosen this year’s theme, Growing Native Leaders: Enhancing Our Seven Generations.

During World War II, more than 44,000 American Indians—out of a total American Indian population of less than 350,000—served with distinction between 1941 and 1945 in both European and Pacific theaters of war.  Collectively, American Indians service members earned at least 71 Air Medals, 51 Silver Stars, 47 Bronze Stars, 34 Distinguished Flying Crosses, and two Congressional Medals of Honor.

Alaska Natives were a significant presence on the Alaska Combat Intelligence Detachment. This outfit was the first ashore on each island occupied by Allied forces in the Aleutian Campaign. They also served in the Alaska Territorial Guard (ATG), a military reserve force component of the U.S. Army. Organized in 1942, 6,368 volunteers—who served without pay—were enrolled from 107 communities throughout Alaska.

Battle-experienced American Indian troops from World War II were joined by newly-recruited American Indians to fight Communist aggression during the Korean conflict.

The 315th Engineers Vertical Construction Company Soldiers return home

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double truck 1

Army National Guard Sgt. Danny Martinez, who is a San Diego resident and serves as a medic for the 315th Engineers Vertical Construction Company, California NG, March Air Reserve Base, is welcomed home Nov. 5, by his girlfriend, Michaela Kimball, after his almost year-long deployment to Kuwait.

double truck 4

Army National Guard Spc. Adiel Marquez, 315th Engineers Vertical Construction Company, California NG, March Air Reserve Base, returns home to wife, Denisse, and his three-month-old daughter, Penelope, after nearly a year-long separation. Marquez said his daughter was born during the deployment, but he was able to come home on leave shortly after her birth, after which he returned to Kuwait to finish his deployment. “After 334 days away we get to meet again,” he said. “Now we are three.”

double truck 5

Claudia Avila stands ready to cheer for her husband’s arrival Nov. 5, while waiting for the bus outside the Army National Guard Armory at March Air Reserve Base. Avila, along with father-in-law, Raphael Sr., and daughter Allison, 2, waited for the bus filled with returning Soldiers made its way to where waiting loved ones stood with signs. Her husband, Army National Guard Sgt. Raphael Avila, was deployed with the 315th Vertical Construction Company.

Emergency Services Support Volunteers minimize injuries, maximize recovery efforts

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When we are looking outside at blue skies and enjoying perfect weather, it may be difficult to imagine, but we are sitting on a potential powder keg of destruction. Yet, that is the reality all Californians face as our state continues to lead the nation in earthquake activity surpassed only by Alaska.

While the shaking is no stranger to us, the concern, the analysis, and all historical data points to a catastrophic event occurring somewhere on the San Andreas Fault. Its fault line is huge, dormant for 300 plus years, and could erupt at anytime, anywhere across the fault line.

As planners and responders, we work diligently to do all we can to prepare our base for such a disastrous event. Given the predictions, an incident of this magnitude occurring on the installation would have major ramifications for Team March members. Responders will be quickly overwhelmed as they attempt to mitigate damage and recover the installation. Assistance from outside resources may not be forthcoming for days as rescue and recovery efforts will be focused on the local area outside the base.

Initially, March Air Reserve Base will be its own island and will need to initiate rescue and recovery efforts as soon as it feasible. Therefore, as part of a concerted effort to minimize injuries and maximize recovery efforts, taking a page from the civilian sector and the Civilian Emergency Management Team (CERT) program, March has its own version of this program called the Emergency Services Support Team (ESST) to assist command and control and responders during this crucial time.

There is no limit to the amount of volunteers we may have. Given the unpredictability of an earthquake, the number of volunteers available to assist will vary depending on time of day, day of the week as well as work schedules, TDYs, vacations, etc. 

We are asking for anyone who is willing to assist our responders during this crucial time to please contact us and become part of the March ESST. Assistance may be needed in a variety of ways. All volunteers are welcome.

We will have meetings and training for our volunteers and ensure that every participant knows what is expected and how the response process works.

We are looking for people who work on the base and are physically able to assist without injury to themselves. There are no mandatory requirements, no CBTs to complete and no recurring requirements other than caring for your fellow wingman and the infrastructure of our historic March Field.

Your support and commitment are what makes this installation special and viable. Please consider becoming a part of the recovery process and helping your first responders and fellow Airmen. All of us working together can provide the synergism necessary to save lives and protect vital assets. Join us in forming an alliance dedicated to helping our fellow Team March members and recovering our installation. “The Big One” will come. It’s only a matter of when, not if.

If you interested in being a volunteer, contact me at the Emergency Management office at 951-655-3024 or email me at Robert.Kaschak@us.af.mil.

News Briefs

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BENEFEDS OPEN SEASON STARTS NOVEMBER 9

The 2015 Federal Benefits Open Season (for the 2016 plan year) runs from Monday, Nov. 9, through Monday, Dec. 14. If you are enrolled in the Federal Employee Dental and Vision Insurance Program (FEDVIP) plan, it will automatically continue into the 2016 plan year, even if you retire. You must take action if you wish to make changes or cancel. Visit BENEFEDS.com to check the 2016 premium amounts, research plan coverage and/or make changes. For general questions, visit the Education & Support section at BENEFEDS.com.

SARC HOSTS FREE MIND BODY RESILIENCY CLASSES

Are you interested in learning more about the Mind and Body connection and how this can promote better overall health? Then come join the interactive and informational series of one-hour classes based on the Benson-Henry Institute for Mind Body Medicine’s Resilient Warrior. Classes are scheduled on the A and B Unit Training Assemblies through September 2016. Topics for the six-part series include

– Stress Reactions and Relaxation Response

– Getting Good Sleep

– Mindfulness and a Positive State of Mind

– Yin and Yang of Resiliency

– Yoga & Journaling

– Social Connections & Communication

Time and Location:

UTA Sundays, 11 a.m. – noon

Bldg. 470, room 205   

Contact frank.pavone@us.af.mil or 655-4551 for more information. No reservation required.

REGISTER FOR YELLOW RIBBON EVENTS

Upcoming dates for Yellow Ribbon events are Nov. 20-22; Dec. 18-20; Jan. 29-31; Feb 19-21; and Mar 18-20. The December Yellow Ribbon is now open for registration for eligible members. For more formation, contact 1st Lt. Shelley Lawrence, your 452nd Air Mobility Wing Yellow Ribbon representative, for details at 951-655-4615.

PLACE FLAGS TO HONOR VETS

If you are interested in helping place flags on the graves of Veterans prior to Veteran’s Day, please join us. We plan to meet at Riverside Evergreen Historical Cemetery (4414 14th St., Riverside, 92501) tomorrow morning, Nov. 7, 8 a.m. to place American flags on the graves of more than 1,000 Veterans (to include the gravesite of Col. Cornelius Cole Smith, United States Army, the cemetery’s only Congressional Medal of Honor recipient) in honor of Veteran’s Day, which is Nov. 11. All American flags are provided. Any and all volunteers are welcomed to participate. The flags will remain in place through Veteran’s Day. Make it a family day and hike to the top of Mount Rubidoux after you are done placing flags. If you have any questions, please contact Mr. John Morris at 951-655-3622 or 951-746-0416. 

MANDATORY FLU VACCINATIONS

The 452 AMW Flu Vaccination Campaign has begun, and will continue through the December’s UTAs. The Flu vaccination is mandatory for all Airmen unless exempted by medical staff. Airmen not current with their Flu vaccination after the December UTAs will potentially be placed in a no-point, no-pay status.

Please remind your fellow Airmen to attend our mass immunization site at Bldg. 355 (2355 Graeber St.) during the October and November UTAs.

Schedule for October/November UTAs is: Saturdays 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Sundays 8 a.m. – 3 p.m.

Additionally, there will be a mobile vaccination site at the Wing Commander’s Call during the November UTAs. Starting in December, all Flu vaccinations will be given at the base clinic.

All Airmen, Unit Health Monitors and leaders are asked to get their annual Flu vaccination at the earliest convenience, and to encourage others to do the same. Help make this year’s Flu Campaign a success. There is no vaccine available for civilians at this time. For questions or concerns, email Maj. David Haupt at david.haupt.7@us.af.mil.

BACK STREET TRANSFORMATION

The Hap Arnold Club is looking for “Team March” specific items/memorabilia to decorate the walls of the new Backstreet Café! Bring items to Bldg. 434, administration office. Any unused items will be returned. Call 951-655-2801 for more information.

NAF TEAM JOBS AVAILABLE

Non-appropriated jobs are available at various locations throughout the USAF. View available positions at www.NAFJobs.org.

INSTALLATION VOTING ASSISTANCE OFFICER

With the onslaught of political debates in the news, it’s time to consider your right to vote. Are you registered? Do you understand military and federal employee guidelines for participating in a political rally or event? Are your social media postings getting political? The March Air Reserve Base Installation Voting Assistance Officer, Maj. Jessica Ditson, can help you find the information you need. She can be reached at Jessica.ditson@us.af.mi l or by calling 951-655-4551. Don’t wait until your state’s deadline to register. Choose to make your vote count!

MARCH EQUAL OPPORTUNITY SEEKS COUNSELORS

The March EO office is looking for ARTs/civilians interested in training to serve as Collateral Equal Opportunity counselors. This is an additional duty appointment. The Collateral EO counselors serve as a bridge between civilian employees and management for informal complaints concerning discrimination. Applicants should be at ease with oral and written communication to all pay grades, and have the ability to remain neutral while performing his or her duties. The additional duty will not exceed 20 percent of the counselor’s primary job duties. Applicants range from GS-05 to GS-12 or equivalent. Primary supervisor concurrence required. Training is required, date/time to be determined. If interested, contact Ms Paula Greenhaw, paula.greenhaw@us.af.mil, Maj. Nixomar Santiago, nixomar.santiago@us.af.mil.

HAP ARNOLD CLUB

The Back Street Café is temporarily operating in the Grande Ballroom at the Hap Arnold Club and serving breakfast and lunch.  Most of your Back Street favorites are available, such as breakfast burritos, French toast, fried chicken, March Burger, salmon sandwich and more!  Download the full menu with pricing at MarchFSS.com. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday: 6:30-10 a.m. for breakfast and 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. for lunch.

UTA operating hours are 5:30-9 a.m. for breakfast (Sat & Sun); 11-1 p.m. for lunch (Sat & Sun), and 4-8 p.m. for dinner (Fri & Sat).

MARCH TICKETS & TOURS

Amusement Park Specials

Knott’s Scary Farm tickets are here!! Prices range from $38 to $48 depending on the date. Visit MarchFSS.com for more information.

Castle Park: $16 per person includes unlimited rides, water park access, miniature golf and the new Sky Rider.

Disney 3-Day Park Hopper military special: $130 per person (adult/child)

SeaWorld “Waves of Honor” special: Extended through November 11, 2015. Program provides a one-time, limited, free admission to SeaWorld San Diego per veteran service member and up to three guests. Visit WavesofHonor.com to register for and obtain your free admissions. Additional tickets are available for purchase from the Tickets & Tours office.

Discount Movie Tickets

Available for only $10 each and valid for Regal Cinemas, United Artists Theatres and Edwards Cinemas.

Hotel Discounts

Receive 10% off any Best Western and 15% off any Choice Hotel

Visit the Tickets & Tours page at MarchFSS.com and download the Discount Ticket Price List for a full list of discounts tickets prices, hotel discounts and special promotions. Call Tickets & Tours at 951-655-4123 for more information.

LEARN TO FLY WITH THE AERO CLUB

The March Aero Club offers flight training (flying, private license, ground school, instrument training) at very reasonable rates including a pay-as-you-go plan with zero down. Visit Hangar 355 on base or call 951-655-3875 for more information.

OUTDOOR REC  EQUIPMENT RENTALS

Outdoor Recreation has a variety of equipment for rent such as camping gear, water sports equipment, bicycles, and trailers to carry it all! Special orders for Callaway, Odyssey, Cleveland, Never Compromise, Nike, Bag Boy, Sun Mountain and Staff golf equipment are also available.  Download the full equipment rental price list at MarchFSS.com, call 951-655-2816 or come on by for more information.

BACK STREET CAFÉ TEMPORARILY OPERATING IN BALLROOM

Breakfast and lunch are available in the club’s Grande Ballroom. Most of your Back Street favorites are available such as Breakfast Burritos, French toast, fried chicken, March Burger, salmon sandwich and more! Download the full menu with pricing at MarchFSS.com. Hours of operation are Monday through Friday, 6:30-10 a.m. for breakfast; 11 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. for lunch. UTA operating hours are 5:30-9 a.m. for breakfast (Sat & Sun); 11-1 p.m. for lunch (Sat & Sun), and 4-8 p.m. for dinner (Fri & Sat).

FITNESS CENTER NEWS

The March Fitness Center has received the Wellbeats Virtual Group Fitness Kiosk. This kiosk allows members to participate in virtual fitness classes.

Daily Fitness Schedule is:

Mondays: 6 a.m. — Virtual Fusion Yoga; 10:30 a.m. and 12:15 p.m. — Intro TRX; 11 a.m. —Virtual Spin

Tuesdays: 11 a.m. — Virtual Strength “Fit for Duty;” 12:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. — Circuit Training

Wednesdays: 6 a.m. — Virtual Fusion Yoga; 11 a.m. — Zumba; 12:15 p.m. — Virtual Fusion Yoga; 12:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. — Battle Ropes Circuit Training

Thursdays: 11 a.m. —Virtual Spin; 12:15 p.m. — Virtual Strength “Fit for Duty;” 12:30 p.m. and 5 p.m. — Circuit Training

Fridays: 10 a.m. — Zumba; 10:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. — Intermediate TRX; 11:15 a.m. — Virtual Cardio

UTA Saturdays: (A UTA) 5 p.m. — Virtual Strength “Fit for Duty;” (B UTA) 5-7 p.m. — Pick-up Basketball

Call the Fitness & Sports center at 951-655-2292 to sign up or for more information on these programs.

GRILL NIGHT AT SALLY’S ALLEY

Every Wednesday night starting at 4 p.m., Sally’s Alley is open for business with Grill Night. Sally’s Alley is also now open every Pre-UTA Thursday at 4 p.m. For more information, call them at 951-653-2121.

THE TEAM MARCH 2015 MILITARY BALL

The Team March 2015 Military Ball is scheduled for Saturday, November 21. Doors will open at 5:30 p.m. with cocktails at 6 p.m. and seating at 6:30 p.m. This year’s location remains the Riverside Convention Center, and this year’s theme is “Winter Wonderland.” This will be a fantastic evening and one you do not want to miss. Ticket prices dropped to $60 per person. See your squadron rep (listed in this issue) to purchase tickets or contact MSgt. Devin at 951-655-5945. There are still rooms available at the Hyatt Place for $105 each (the Hyatt Place price includes breakfast) listed under 452nd Air Mobility Wing 2015 Military Ball. You can contact The Hyatt Place at 1-888-553-1300 or (951)321-3500.

229th Bravo Company deploys from March Field

By
Aerotech News
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0
U.S. Air Force photo/Capt. Perry Covington

The 229th Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) Bravo Company deployed on October 24, 2015 from March Air Reserve Base to Northern Afghanistan to fulfill a 9-12 month deployment that was one of the first from Fort Irwin, California, in more than 10 years. The training facility’s primary mission is to ready troops for CONUS (continental U.S.) and OCONUS (overseas) operations. The 229th Bravo Company was created almost a year ago and is based at Fort Irwin, making them the only deployable group at the post.

This deployment also marks another ‘first’ as the Company is leaving from March Air Reserve Base, Calif.

“This whole operation was extremely smoot between the Army and Air components.  We couldn’t be happier,” said Captain Trenton Conyers, Assistant Operations Officer 2916th aviation battalion, Fort Irwin.  “Deploying the 229th created a set of challenges we did not necessarily foresee, but we were all able to come together and get the job done.”

Typically, a UAS company has almost two times the equipment requirement than a traditional company deploying into the area of responsibility.   More equipment in turn demands more logistical efforts, efforts March ARB was ready and willing to tackle.

“Deploying the B Company, 229th Aviation Regiment out of March was truly a joint experience,” said Major Mark E. Johnson, USAFR, Installation Deployment Officer, 452 LRS. “March traditional reservists and AGR Airmen worked alongside active duty US Army personnel to deploy a fledgling remotely piloted system regiment which had not even existed twelve months ago.  In short, rapid global mobility empowering the warfighter.”

The successful deployment of the 229th UAS Bravo Company is an important step in building a strong relationship between Fort Irwin and March Air Reserve Base for any future operations.

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