Train The World s Greatest F-16 Fighter Pilots and Maintainers, While Deploying Mission Ready Warfighters. Story and photo by TECH. SGT.

Transcription

1 Train The World s Greatest F-16 Fighter Pilots and Maintainers, While Deploying Mission Ready Warfighters May 29, 2009 Vol. 9, No. 21 BASE BULLETIN The base bulletin is provided for the Luke Air Force Base community and features items of interest to base personnel. Just for Fun Art Show Calling all artists! Art work for the Just for Fun Art Show is now being accepted at the Luke library for the August show. The deadline for all entries is July 15 and the Luke community, children and adults, are invited to submit drawings, paintings, photography, wood work, pottery, metal work or sculpture. For more information on submission requirements, call (623) Course 20 new program U.S. armed forces officers selected for the grade of captain or above are eligible for enrollment into the online Squadron Officer School distance learning course. To enroll, go to the education and training office in Bldg. 1150, Room For more information, call (623) Heart Link Air Force spouses make new friends, learn about the Air Force and understand their importance to the Air Force team in Luke s Heart Link program. The goal is to strengthen military families and enhance mission readiness. The next Heart Link orientation is 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. June 5 at the Airman and Family Readiness Center. To register or for more information, call (623) Finance classes The Airman & Family Readiness Center is featuring finance classes: Money Values/Finance 101 Learn to manage finances and make money work for you 9 to 11 a.m. June 9. Credit Score Enhancement Understand and improve your credit score 10 to 11 a.m. June 10. Classes are in Bldg For more information or to sign up, call (623) For updated and detailed maps on road construction around Luke Air Force Base, go to INSIDE Action line... 2 Spotlight rd FS stand down Silver Wings Pool opens Around Luke rd Fighter Squadron stand down festivities Airman 1st Class Sandra Welch Members of the 63rd Fighter Squadron, friends, and family gather as a piano burns during the 63rd FS stand down and Cactus Starfighter Squadron realignment block party held in front of Bldg. 903 May 22. According to Capt. Nicholas Johnson, 63rd FS pilot, piano burning is an old fighter pilot tradition dating back to World War II. For story and more photos, see pages 12 and 13. Colonel hits 3,000 flying hour mark Story and photo by TECH. SGT. SUSAN STOUT 944th Fighter Wing Public Affairs The 944th Fighter Wing commander logged his 3,000th F-16 Fighting Falcon flying hour in a basic fighter maneuver mission here at Luke Air Force Base May 20. Col. Michael Popovich has spent the equivalent of 125 days in the cockpit of an F-16, a feat few pilots reach in their career. Of his 3,000 flying hours, Colonel Popovich has spent 293 of them flying combat tours in support of Operations Desert Storm, Provide Comfort II, Southern Watch, Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom. I am very fortunate to have flown in many offensive combat operations and to have had so many great opportunities over my Air Force career, said Colonel Popovich, a distinguish graduate of the Reserve Officer Training Corps program at the University of Wyoming. Colonel Popovich served in the Air Force, the Air Force Reserve and the Air National Guard. In his civilian career, he is a pilot for American Airlines. Prior to his current assignment as commander, Colonel Popovich was the 944th FW vice commander. He said his most rewarding assignment is being the 944th FW commander working with so many great Americans in the 944th FW and Team Luke. The partnership we have here with the 56th Fighter Wing through our F-16 Total Force associate pilot program is a success story for the Air Force, he said. I am grateful to 61st Top Tech. Sgt. Susan Stout Brig. Gen. Kurt Neubauer, 56th Fighter Wing commander, congratulates Col. Michael Popovich, 944th Fighter Wing commander, on completing his 3,000th flying hour in the F-16 Fighting Falcon May 20. Dogs Fighter Squadron for coordinating this event. Achieving 3,000 flying hours in the F-16 would have never occurred without the truly superb maintenance support here at Luke AFB and in every unit throughout my entire career.

2 2 May 29, 2009 Thunderbolt COMMENTARY shirt s corner Family care plan good idea for everyone by Master Sgt. BEN REYNOLDS 56th Operations Group first sergeant Air Force personnel are deploying at an all-time high to meet the challenges of supporting contingency operations. According to AFI , Family Care Plans, contingency operations requiring temporary duty along with overseas assignments to family-restricted areas and other duties requiring members to be separated from their family require unique family arrangements. Each Air Force member is responsible for the care of family members during these circumstances. The Air Force assures itself of an available force to meet all of its needs by making certain that each member has made adequate arrangements for the care of his or her family members. While everyone understands the need to be ready for war and to have their families taken care of during deployments and overseas duties, few realize this is a daily issue during normal operations at home base. A sound family care plan should include appropriate actions to take when there is a need for extended duty hours, recalls, weekend duty, or for the worst case scenario, in the event of the death of both parents. So who needs a family care plan? Everyone does. Those Air Force members that require a written family care plan are defined by the AFI; military to military couples with dependents, single parents and those members with civilian spouses who have unique family situations. Even civilians and contractor personnel are highly encouraged to establish a family care plan. While the likelihood of something happening as dramatic as losing both parents at the same time, the last thing you should want is to leave your dependents in the hands of someone you don t know. Have a plan, test your plan and most importantly, let someone know about the plan and how to implement it. ACTION LINE 56fwcommandersactionlinevs.luke.af.mil (623) The commander s Action Line is your direct line to me with questions or suggestions about subjects of concern to the entire Luke Air Force Base community. I appreciate your feedback. Your ideas and concerns help build a stronger foundation on which we can successfully complete our mission and take care of our people. Brig. Gen. Kurt Neubauer To receive a response, leave 56th FW commander your name and telephone number. Action Lines of general interest are printed in the Thunderbolt. Remember, the quickest and most efficient way to resolve a problem is to talk directly to the responsible agency or through your chain of command. The Action Line isn t just for complaints. Send along your kudos when someone provides exceptional service, goes out of their way to help or deserves a kind word. PHONE NUMBERS Base operator... (623) Chapel... (623) Community Center... (623) Flight Medicine... (623) Fraud, waste and abuse hotline... (623) Hobby shop... (623) Housing office... (623) Law enforcement desk... (623) Legal assistance... (623) Library... (623) Military Equal Opportunity... (623) Military pay... (623) Outdoor Recreation... (623) Pass and registration... (623) Patient advocate... (623) Public Affairs... (623) Security Forces... (623) Straight Talk Line... (623) Sexual Assault Prevention/Response... (623) Veterinary services... (623) Old School Leadership by Lt. Col. PAUL STURGES 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron commander As Airmen, we often read and hear about new concepts of leadership. While some techniques are refined over the years, most leadership principles haven t changed in centuries. In fifth century B.C., there lived a man named Nehemiah, a cupbearer to King Artaxerxes. Nehemiah exhibited many of the principles leaders strive to emulate today. Upon hearing the walls of Jerusalem were in disrepair, Nehemiah grieved the condition of his beloved city but immediately saw the problem and began pondering a solution, even from 1,000 miles away. He felt a sense of responsibility and took time to think, pray and put together a travel plan to go and fix the wall. While formulating a plan, he patiently waited four months for the right time to elicit the support of his boss. He presented his well thought out plan to the king who gave him assistance, protection and materials for the project as the journey was dangerous and the people of Jerusalem did not have the materials needed to rebuild the wall. Upon arriving to Jerusalem, Nehemiah spent the first three nights out and about assessing the situation. This allowed him to make a concise plan after seeing the problem first-hand while avoiding distractions such as , meetings and appointments. After making an evaluation of the work to be done, he called the people together and had a mass roll call to communicate his vision for the city. He realized he couldn t fix the wall by himself and enlisted Luke Editorial Staff Commander...Brig. Gen. Kurt Neubauer Public Affairs chief...capt. Gerardo Gonzalez Public Affairs deputy chief...2nd Lt. Ryan DeCamp Editor...Deborah Leuthold Staff writer/designer...deborah Silliman Wolfe Editorial Information For past issues of the Thunderbolt, go to and click on PDF edition. The 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office prepares all editorial content for the Thunderbolt. The editor will edit or rewrite material for clarity, brevity or to conform with Air Force style as required by Air Force Instruction Submission deadline is at noon Thursday the week prior to the desired publication date. Contributions for the Thunderbolt can be made to the Public Affairs office, West Falcon Street, Luke Air Force Base, Ariz., or through to others to join him in the cause by appealing to their need for security and sense of pride for their city. As expected, Nehemiah faced significant opposition. The progress and change in Jerusalem caused friction as some preferred the status quo. As the work progressed on the wall, the criticism increased as the habitual critics resisted change. When these critics decided they wanted to meet and compromise, Nehemiah resisted and told them, I am doing a great work and I cannot come down. Why should the work stop while I leave it and come down to you? At the same time, Nehemiah showed he was willing to do his part to help and worked side-by-side with the inhabitants. He gave them a sense of ownership by having the workers fix the areas of the wall closest to their homes where they could easily see the benefit of the cause. When the morale of the workers became low due to the presence and discouragement of their critics, Nehemiah stuck with the plan, kept them on track and reassured them they were working for a greater cause. In the end, Nehemiah fixed in 52 days what lay in ruin for 120 years. The morale of Jerusalem skyrocketed and the people celebrated with a feast of thanksgiving. This was a result of someone who saw a need, acted with a sense of responsibility, made and communicated a plan, elicited support, resisted criticism and gave others a sense of ownership. What problems do you see that need to be fixed in your organization? Maybe the actions of a cupbearer in response to a problem can serve as an example to guide you in fixing it. luke.thunderboltvs.luke.af.mil. The editor can be reached at (623) and the fax number is (623) The Thunderbolt uses material from the Armed Forces Information Service, Air Force News Service, AETC News Service and other sources. All advertising is handled by Aerotech News and Review, 9192 W. Cactus Road, Suite M, Peoria, Ariz., (623) The Thunderbolt is published by Aerotech News and Review, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the 56th Fighter Wing, Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. This civilian enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services. Contents of the Thunderbolt are not necessarily the official 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 DOD, the Department of the Air Force or Aerotech News and Review 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 affiliation or any other nonmerit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs office of Luke AFB, Ariz. All photographs are Air Force photographs unless otherwise indicated.

3 Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. Cave Tonitrum NEWS May 29, Social connectedness helps give satisfaction, meaning to life Having a strong social support network and a sense of community connection is at the heart of a content and healthy individual. May is National Mental Health Month, and is recognized this year with a focus on social connectedness. Without healthy relationships and personal interaction that give meaning and satisfaction, some may feel isolated and distant at times despite living in a densely populated area. As society gravitates toward television, cellphones, texting, e- mail and other forms of nonpersonal modern communication, people can grow farther apart from each other emotionally. Basic things such as human touch, face-to-face communication and interpersonal exchanges are being replaced by virtual texts and cold, impersonal contact. Modern technology has improved communication, but lessened the connections between individuals. It is better to fill free time with THUNDERBOLT ALMANAC Sortie Scoreboard Squadron Training Timeline Delta 61st FS nd FS rd FS th FS th FS th FS th FS na st FS na -12 FY09 Student pilot certifications: 260 Hours flown: 22,960.5 Sorties flown: 17,508 FY09 Mission Ready Airman graduates: 310 (As of Monday) It is helpful to know that there is someone to turn to in times of need for many military members that stability is in the wingman concept. interactive activities that can provide more meaningful results and help reinforce social connectedness rather than playing video games, consuming alcohol or brooding in the dorms all day. Activities may include going back to school, developing a hobby, joining a club or organization, doing volunteer work, or exploring the local area. These activities will increase one s sense of connectedness. Social connectedness becomes particularly important for the military community. The stresses of the military lifestyle and work responsibilities call for a respite during weekends and a healthy home life at all times. Most military members are away from their home areas and separated from their support network of family and friends. Temporary duty assignments and deployments can further strain relationships or cause stress on those already engaging in unhealthy behavior patterns. Beyond geographical moves, military members also go through frequent transitions within the local and internal work place, such as transferring duty sections and changes in responsibilities. Indeed, a military member may sometimes feel disconnected from others and may find it challenging to develop a strong social support network. Staying connected with family is important. Hearing the warm and familiar voice of a loved one may be uplifting. Simply being able to talk it out can be helpful as well. Running ideas and concerns by someone trusted and then receiving healthy advice can prove valuable. Being able to hug family members and having a bond with those you care about is important to the well being of us all. When family is unavailable, other connections must be used. Making new friends and being aware of one s support network can provide a healthy foundation. Having face-to-face contact can provide connections that might otherwise be missing for active-duty personnel. It is helpful to know that there is someone to turn to in times of need or even if one simply needs a ride home after getting a flat tire. For many military members, that stability is in the wingman concept. Being there for one s fellow Airman means that someone will be there for that person in return. Several resources are available to help people connect. The Airman and Family Readiness Center is a place to learn about opportunities from employment and volunteering to special programs for families with deployed members. The Oasis is operated by the base chapel and is a venue for young Airmen to meet and greet each other. Many come to the Oasis Fridays for a homecooked meal and social activities are held on weekends. The 56th Force Support Squadron has a variety of activities which include a wood hobby shop, and boss and buddy night at the Desert Star Club. Outdoor recreation has monthly adventures, including cookouts and fishing excursions. The Phoenix area also has recreational opportunities and social activities, from Phoenix Suns basketball games and baseball spring training to art and music festivals in Tempe and free Tuesdays at the Phoenix Art Museum. Staying connected with other people can foster a meaningful, enjoyable and healthy experience, whether that means keeping weekends a respite for a relaxed night, going out with a small group of friends, or turning a Saturday night into a time for adventure and new experiences. For more information on resources, go to the following Web sites: airman_family_readiness.html, com/, Courtesy of 56th Medical Operations Squadron Mental Health Clinic Airmen Against Drunk Driving Year-to-date Pickups: 563 DUIs from Luke: 12 Excuses to drink and drive: 0 Lives saved from calling: COUNTLESS (623) 856-AADD (2233) 159 Luke members are deployed to 14 locations around the world. No ce to claimants In accordance with Air Force Instruction , paragraph 3.1.5, notice is hereby given that Staff Sgt. Steven Detmer is deceased. The undersigned has been appointed Summary Court Officer for the purpose of estate settlement in accordance with AFI All persons having claims against the estate are hereby on notice to present their claims. Claims must be presented by mailing or providing a written signed statement to: 1st Lt. Justin Hobbs, 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron, at (623) or by . IN BRIEF Hispanic Heritage Month Meetings Hispanic Heritage Month is Sept. 15 through Oct. 15. For those interested in joining the planning committee or more information, call Master Sgt. Sandra Nunes at (623) AFSA meeting The Air Force Sergeants Association Cactus Eagle Chapter 1260 will meet at 11 a.m. June 10 in the Club Thunderbolt Tiki Hut Room. For more information, go to or call Chief Master Sgt. Matthew Grengs at (623) Vacation Bible School Youth, Pre-K through 8th grade, learn about the Apostle Paul and the underground church 5:30 to 8 p.m. June 8 through 12 at the Luke community chapel. A light meal will be served. For more information, call (623) Library family time The Luke Air Force Base Library offers programs to support base children. Baby time is 9:30 a.m. Tuesday, toddler time is 9:30 a.m. Wednesday and pre-school story time is 9:30 a.m. Thursday. The library also offers a read-to-bowl program for children, ages 6 to 12, and has Hooked on Phonics available for check out. The library, located at 7424 N. Homer Dr., Bldg. 219, is open seven days a week. For more information, call (623) Summer hire program Luke Air Force Base will be filling lifeguard, clerical and laborer positions for the summer. These positions are suitable for high school (16 or older) and college students seeking summer work. No experience or qualifications are required. For those interested, submit a resume and student transcript to the civilian personnel office, 56th Support Center, Room For more information, call Kathy Brocksmith at (623) Traffic Management Flight tips Local commanders and supervisors are responsible for allowing sufficient time for military members and employees to receive counseling and arrange for shipment or receipt of household goods shipments. Do not schedule household goods pickup or delivery for the same days of closing or vacating a house or apartment. Last minute glitches with closing agreements and contracts are very common, so a window of time available for last minute emergencies is necessary. For more information, contact TMO at (623) Speaker s bureau Luke Air Force Base has a robust Speaker Bureau Program which provides Luke personnel the opportunity to directly interact with the community through professional organizations, schools, businesses and civic organizations. The 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs office is looking for individuals willing to be speakers for the program and help educate the public about the Luke mission. Materials are available. For more information, call Barbara Plante at (623)

4 4 May 29, 2009 Thunderbolt SPOTLIGHT Staff Sgt. Christina Martinez 56th Fighter Wing Command Section Assistant NCO-in-charge Hometown: San Bernardino, Calif. Years in service: Nine Family: Son, Jacob Education: Community College of the Air Force degree in information management; pursuing a bachelor s degree Previous assignments: Osan Air Base, Republic of Korea; Edwards Air Force Base, Calif.; Kunsan AB, ROK; and Holloman AFB, N.M. Inspirations: My family who inspires me to be a better person and Chief Master Sgt. Douglas Thomas who taught me what it means to be an NCO Goals: Finish my bachelor s degree this year Greatest feat: Multi-tasking school, work and parenthood Self-description: Always do my best and learn something new every day Famous last words: Wow! Off-duty interests: Snowboarding, traveling, bargain shop, movies and reading Commander s comments: Sergeant Martinez s performance is exemplary and sets the standard for her subordinates, peers and superiors alike, said Brig. Gen. Kurt Neubauer, 56th FW commander. Her positive attitude serves as a force multiplier across the wing. She readily accepts tasking whether at home station or deployed. She is a model Airman who has mastered the art of balancing her personal and professional life and serves as an inspiration to us all. She has streamlined workflow and continues to seek out new opportunities to eliminate non-value added work. SALUTES AND AWARDS 53 graduate ALS class 09-5 Air Force announces E-7 promotions The 56th Fighter Wing Airman Leadership School graduated 49 senior airmen and four staff sergeants May 14 from class The award winners are: John L. Levitow: Olivia Perales, 308th Fighter Squadron Distinguished graduates: Antonio Flores, 756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron; Crystal Jones, 56th Operations Support Squadron; Ian Messier, 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron and Clarence Sangster, 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron Leadership Award: Lamisha Joncas, 56th Medical Support Squadron Academic Achievement Award: Ian Messier, 56th EMS Other Airmen graduates are: 56th Operations Group Destiny Michel 56th Operations Support Squadron Andrew Dilks 56th Maintenance Group Ryan Robinson 56th Maintenance Operations Squadron Eduardo Cedilloz 56th Component Maintenance Squadron Christopher Bayer, Brett Bowen, Stanley Houser, Annie Menez and Andrew Preston 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron Daniel Castellano and The promotion list for master sergeant was released Air Force wide May 14. The following technical sergeants have been promoted to master sergeant at Luke Air Force Base and were inadvertently not published in the May Brandon Floersch 56th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Joshua Armstrong, Matthew Buck, Kevin Carter Jr., Jeremy Cox, John Cummings, Fred Draper, Robert Fields, Robert Hood, Steven Hutchens, Jesse Kovac, Robert Lacey, Ryan McClurg, Sean Mc- Manus, Robert Tomlinson and Cody Waller 756th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron Aaron Arias, Richard Campos, Richard Harrison III, Kevin Miller, Myron Spurlock, Roy Stuart Jr., and Staff Sgts. Brian Bentley and Paul Montgomery 56th Communications Squadron Eric Kensel 56th Force Support Squadron Jessica King 56th Security Forces Squadron Staff Sgts. John Haines and Andrew Kief 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron Shane Baldwin, Francisco Garcia-Romero, Kyle Hornbaker, David King Jr. and Matthew Morrow 56th Medical Operations Squadron Joshua Brown and Robert Rose 607th Air Control Squadron James Nottle III 161st Security Forces Squadron David Griffin Jr. and Eric Jackson 22 edition of the Thunderbolt. Detachment 12, 372nd Training Squadron Victor Celaya, Todd Ross, James Sislo and Gary White. Ready to take advantage of the serious buyer s market that we are in? Ask me why it s important to get pre-approved for a loan before you do anything else. VA Home Loan Specialist No Money Down, 100% financing FHA Home Loans as low as 3.5% down See how much you can save with a VA Interest Rate Reduction Refinance Loan FHA Streamline Refinances also available Brian Smith (USAF Retired) Senior Loan Officer Envision Lending Group, Inc Direct: Fax: brians@envisionlending.com MB SERVE AGAIN ON YOUR OWN GROUND T he Air Force Reserve is offering part-time opportunities for Medical Professionals with excellent benefits, including choice of home base, education assistance, secure employment and competitive pay. Choose your home base and you will not be transferred. Receive low cost TRICARE health insurance. Maintain retirement benefits. In most cases you can retain your rank. Specific jobs come with signing bonuses. Continue to build close friendships, serve your country and participate in experiences unique to the military. Accomplish extraordinary things while you achieve your personal goals. EVERYDAY PEOPLE MAKING A DIFFERENCE kids eat free tuesday! 1 per table 12 & under 99 Margarita Monday Grand Opening! We re back with a twist! W Peoria Ave Peoria Just west of the 101 private banquet rooms available meeting rooms catering take-out FREE Entree buy one entree and 2 drinks, get 2nd entree of equal or lesser value free. VALID MON.-THURS. ONLY Crazy Earls 9440 W Peoria Ave. Peoria With this coupon. Not valid w/other offers. Exp. 6/19/09. See It, Smell It, Try It, Buy It

5 SUN CITY CARS & TRUCKS WE FINANCE O.A.C. E1 and UP BUY HERE PAY HERE WESTSIDE LAW FIRM STARTING AT $ down + TTL 9902 W. Santa Fe Dr., Sun City (99th/Grand) MEMBER Approved Auto Repair AUTOMOTIVE DYNAMICS Sun City s Finest Auto Repair Center for 26 years Family owned & operated since 1982 INTRODUCTORY OFFER $.95* Lube, Oil 17 and Filter Up to 5 qts oil Oil Filter Fill Fluids Safety Check *most cars/new Customers Only Ask about our 72 hour return policy. See dealer for details. Our mechanics are not paid a commission They are paid by the hour. We don t sell you any unnecessary parts or repairs period The Harrian Law Firm, P.L.C. Robert F. Harrian 5616 W. Glendale Avenue Glendale, AZ (602) Please see our website for more information! Robert Harrian has practiced law in Arizona since Divorce and Family Law Estate Planning Divorce Division of Military Pension Plans Child Custody/Support Paternity Wills Trusts Guardianships Modification Personal Injury Auto Accidents Slip and Fall SAVE AN INNOCENT ANIMALS LIFE TODAY! Adopt a pet at your local pound and have a friend for life!

6 6 May 29, 2009 Thunderbolt NEWS Know difference between emergency, urgent, routine care by SHARI LOPATIN TriWest Healthcare Alliance When sickness strikes, Luke Air Force Base Airmen and their families can save cash by knowing the difference between emergency, urgent and routine care. Confusing a moderate steady fever as urgent or a sprain as an emergency can equal longer waits and more out-of-pocket costs. Active-duty servicemembers and their families at Luke should know the differences between these three types of care: Emergency care Anything that is reasonable to believe could threaten life, limb or eyesight without immediate treatment is considered an emergency by TRICARE. This includes maternity and psychiatric emergencies believed to be serious medical conditions. Examples of emergency situations are: Severe bleeding Chest pains No pulse Inability to breathe Spinal cord or back injury Severe eye injuries Broken bones In an emergency, Luke Airmen or their families should call 911 or visit the nearest emergency room. Within 24 hours after the visit, TRICARE patients are encouraged to call either TriWest Healthcare Alliance at (888) TRIWEST ( ) or the 56th Medical Group at (623) especially if the visit resulted in an inpatient admission. Urgent care An illness or injury that won t cause further disability or death if not treated immediately, but needs medical attention to keep it from evolving into a greater threat, requires urgent care. Examples of urgent care include: Minor lacerations Urinary tract infections Ear aches Migraine headaches Sprains Rising fever Airmen and their families should use civilian urgent care only if the 56th MDG is not available and they received an authorization from the base clinic. Even during after-hours, families can call the 56th MDG to determine what care is needed and whether an authorization to visit an urgent care facility will be provided. If families are not sure whether the situation is urgent or an emergency, call the 56th MDG for clarification. Families that don t receive an urgent care authorization may be billed for TRICARE Prime s point-of-service option, which includes additional cost shares and a deductible. Routine care TRICARE defines routine care by what it s not. If it s not an emergency and it doesn t qualify as urgent care (no authorizations from the 56th MDG), then it s routine. Also known as primary care, routine care can include wellbaby or child care, preventive care appointments, general office visits for treatment of symptoms, follow-up care with the doctor or ongoing care for chronic illnesses and conditions. Routine care is provided by medical professionals at the 56th MDG. If an Airman or family member calls the 56th MDG for an authorization to receive urgent care for a moderate steady fever and the MDG asks the caller to come in instead that would be routine care. If the Airman or family member still visits an urgent care facility, they may have more out-of-pocket costs. Waste water plant performs vital mission by Master Sgt. STEPHEN DELGADO 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Every time a toilet flushes or someone take a shower or washes their hands, millions of gallons of waste water are created. The tasty meal or the frothy beverage one enjoyed yesterday eventually ends up in the collection of waste water, more commonly known as sewage. The average public swimming pool holds 100,000 gallons of water. The 56th Civil Engineer Squadron Waste Water Treatment facility handles five swimming pools worth of waste water daily. We take care of all the collection and treatment of 500,000 gallons of waste water every day from the base, said Master Sgt. Donnie Vinson, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron utilities craftsman. There are different methods in treating waste water. Our plant is an activated sludge plant. The process starts with the preliminary treatment of the incoming sewage called influent, said Don Gibbs, 56th CES Waste Water Treatment facility plant operator. This process involves screening the water and removing large objects such as rags, cans, wood pieces and roots, he said. After the screening process, comes the removal of sand and gravel, which is hauled to a landfill. The next step is pre-aeration, which refreshes the wastewater and helps to remove oil. Then the flowmeter measures and records the flow of water. Next in the process is primary treatment, which involves sedimentation and flotation. Sedimentation and flotation removes settleable and floatable materials, Mr. Gibbs said. What s more, the secondary treatment treats the solids removed by other processes and then the activated sludge method goes to work. See WASTE, Page W. Glendale Ave. Glendale, AZ INK ADDICTIONS TATTOO STUDIO Custom Tattoos By Steve Crash Dennis B DeVille Guest Artists Where your body gets its fix military discounts LADIES UPSCALE BOUTIQUE DEJA V YOU Voted Best Of Phoenix New & Like New Clothing Consign or Buy Shop or Drop Fine Jewelry Fun Jewelry Handbags & Shoes 10% OFF WITH MILITARY ID (623) Coldwater Station Shopping Plaza across from Litchfield Park Post Office W. Indian School Rd. Litchfield Park Jessica M. Heffernan A Member of the Nationwide Family of Companies The On Your Side Experience You Expect -- Guaranteed! Titan Auto Insurance 5826 W Olive Ave #B-105 Glendale, AZ TEL: FAX: hefferj3@titanauto.com The most dangerous animals in the forest don t live there. ONLY YOU CAN PREVENT WILDFIRES. All About Sports, LLC Uniforms Awards Custom Ball Gloves Shoes TATTOO & BODY PIERCING STUDIO TONY, ANTHONY & SANDY Walk Ins & Appointments Must be 18 Fine Line Privacy Available Custom Work Micro Dermic-Piercing Your one stop shop for all your sports needs! Specializing in: Memorabilia Promotional Items Equipment Field Turf Boxing Glove Relacing Martial Arts Mon-A-Vie W. Bell Road, Suite 115 Surprise, AZ since 1987 Military Discount 3593 W. Northern Ave. Suite 7 Phoenix Also located at Sandusky, Ohio

7 Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. Cave Tonitrum NEWS May 29, Airman 1st Class Sandra Welch Senior Airman Allan Dela Cruz, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron utility journeyman, brings up samples of the base water supply for testing of bacteria and minerals at the 56th CES waste water treatment facility. Airman 1st Class Sandra Welch Airman Sidney Cole, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron waster water treatment operator, performs a depth test at the waste water treatment facility located at the northeast corner of Glendale Ave. and El Mirage Road. Airman 1st Class Sandra Welch Airman Sidney Cole, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron waster water treatment operator, pours water over a filter to test the bacteria and mineral levels from the base water supply at the 56th CES waste water treatment facility. The activated sludge process is a biological wastewater treatment method which speeds the decomposition of wastes in the treatment of wastewater, Mr. Gibbs said. Activated sludge is added to wastewater and the mixture is aerated and agitated. After a period of time in the aeration tank, the activated sludge is allowed to settle out by sedimentation and is disposed of. The remaining wastewater then undergoes more treatment. The oxidation ditch plays a vital part in the treatment process, Sergeant Vinson said. Oxidation is the addition of oxygen and the removal of hydrogen, or the removal of electrons from an element or compound, he said. Organic matter is oxidized to more stable substances in wastewater treatment. The ditch provides a detention period that allows activated sludge microorganisms to treat the wastewater. The ultraviolet system is part of the final process. When ultraviolet radiation is absorbed by the cells of microorganisms, it inflicts damage on the genetic material and kills them. When the treatment process is complete the water is called effluent. The effective method of treating wastewater enables the base to save millions of gallons of drinking water yearly, Sergeant Vinson said. Water from the plant is used for the base ball parks and golf course, he said. We are proud to produce effluent that is safe and can keep the golf courses and parks green and beautiful. The wastewater treatment plant is located off base on the northeast corner of Glendale and El Mirage Roads. The present treatment plant has been an activated sludge plant since Integrity. Service. Excellence. Come worship with us and discover the biblical basis for these essential core values kingofkingspca.org CALLED TO SERVE Assistance dogs for veterans 866-VETDOGS A CFC participant. Provided as a public service. $ 45 $ 35 $ 35 $ 30 Take Hold of Your Future All Programs Start August 3, 2009 MBA - Master of Business Administration MPA - Master of Public Administration MA - Business & Organizational Security Management MA - Human Resources Management Degree Programs Available in Classrooms And Online Over 90 years of academic excellence Civilians Welcome

8 8 May 29, 2009 Thunderbolt NEWS Washington Following the May 7 roll-out of the fiscal year 2010 budget proposal for the Defense Department, Air Force officials announced plans to retire legacy fighters to fund a smaller and more capable force and redistribute people for higher priority missions. Southwest Asia Every year, thousands of units of blood and plasma are sent into the U.S. Central Command area of responsibility to save the lives of servicemembers and civilians who sustain life threatening injuries. Thanks to the hard work of the four members of the 379th Expeditionary Medical Group Blood Transshipment Center, and volunteers from around base, all of these products get to where they are needed in a timely manner. Pakistan In response to specific requests for support from the government of Pakistan, the Defense Department has arranged for the delivery of humanitarian assistance to aid the estimated 1.7 million Pakistanis displaced by current military operations against extremists in the country s northwestern provinces. Lackland chosen as cyber numbered Air Force headquarters Air Force officials announced Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, is the preferred alternative for the permanent location of 24th Air Force, a new numbered Air Force headquarters focused on the cyber mission. Although Lackland has been identified as the preferred alternative, a final basing decision will not be made until the environmental process required under the National Environmental Policy Act is completed. In October 2008, Air Force officials announced the creation a Cyber-Numbered Air Force under Air Force Space Command. The Air Force announced the six candidate bases for the numbered Air Force headquarters Jan. 21, and then began site surveys that teams completed on March 6. The six candidate bases were Barksdale AFB, La.; Lackland AFB, Texas; Langley AFB, Va.; Offutt AFB, Neb.; Peterson AFB, Colo.; and Scott AFB, Ill. Site survey teams used previously approved criteria to gather information, assess capabilities, and refine initial data to thoroughly evaluate all candidate locations in accordance Japan A fuel leak on a commercial airliner caught the attention of Staff Sgt. Bartek Bachleda, 909th Air Refueling Squadron boom operator at Kadena Air Base, during a flight from Chicago to Narita Airport. After alerting the pilots and aircrew, the ranking pilot made the decision to divert the flight to San Francisco. with our basing process, said Kathleen Ferguson, the deputy secretary of the Air Force for installations. She added that these basing selections were made using a measured and deliberate process to ensure that the final decision is the best possible outcome for national defense and is in compliance with the National Environmental Policy Act. asp?id= More Air Force news available at Guard T-bird pilot wheels enthusiasm at nation s capital The first Air National Guard officer to serve on the Air Force Thunderbirds was enjoying his time in the nation s capital May 14. It was his eighth event since joining the team. A trim, operations officer in his late 30s, Lt. Col. Derek Routt wore the dark-blue flight suit of the Thunderbirds with nary a thread out of place. So there was no distinguishing between a Guard, Reserve or active-duty Thunderbird, he said. This is a true-to-form, total force team, he said. When I tell people that I am a guardsman it brings a lot of questions, and that allows me to talk about the Air Guard. But it really doesn t matter what service or what capacity; to serve is the number one goal. Even as a Nevada Air Guard member, Colonel Routt flew the F-15 Eagle in Nevada with what officials call the most diverse wing in the Air Force the 57th Wing at Nellis Air Force Base. The Thunderbirds are based just down the street. asp?id= ASK ABOUT OUR NEW PATIENT SPECIAL! We Care About You Always a low fee for exam and x-rays PEORIA NE Corner 83 rd Ave. & UH (623) W. Union Hills Dr. Call for Details! Reginald & Kelley Steele, Pastors KINGDOM IN THE VALLEY CHRISTIAN CHURCH 447 S. Old Litchfield Rd., Litchfield Park, AZ Service Times Sun. 8:00am, 9:30am, 11:30am Wed. 7:00 pm Sat. 5:00pm (family service) WESTSIDE Desert Sky Mall (623) N. 75 th Ave. Employee Rights John A. Conley Attorney at Law 12 years experience Former Army Labor Counselor EEO Discrimination Sexual Harassment Retaliation Wrongful Discharge s s s s s s s s Rev. B. Alexander Wright Pastor Services being held at: Comfort Suites Glendale 9824 W. Camelback Road Glendale, AZ s s s s s s s s Tues. Night Bible Study 6PM Sun. Morning Service 10:45AM s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s s W. Coggins Dr. Suite B Mon. Fri. 8:00 5:00 pm William T. O Neill C.P.O and Staff New Otto-Bock C-Leg Certified Contracted with Tricare & V.A. approved Most insurance accepted

9 Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. Cave Tonitrum NEWS May 29, PEOPLE FIRST Editor s Note: The People First section is compiled from information from the Air Force Personnel Center, TRICARE, 56th Mission Support Squadron, Airman and Family Readiness Flight, the Veterans Administration, the civilian personnel office and armed forces news services. Military families have support for moves, deployments Military families regularly face deployments, moves and other transitions. Some of those changes are not that easy. TRICARE s comprehensive behavioral health benefit for both parents and children includes self-help and educational resources. TriWest Healthcare Alliance manages the TRICARE benefit in the 21- state west region. Three resources The Behavioral Health Portal at www. triwest.com includes resources to help parents understand a child s potential behavioral issues, including depression. At select Beneficiary and then Behavioral Health from the In the Spotlight menu. Produced by TriWest, the Help From Home video series is available at no cost. Order DVD set or view the videos online through TriWest s Behavioral Health Portal. It includes advice from behavioral health experts and military families who have experienced deployment and reintegration. TriWest partnered with the National Military Family Association to produce 10 Things Military Teens Want You To Know, for those who want to better understand their world. Visit for more information and to request a copy. More resources are available through the Airman and Family Readiness Center and at Courtesy of Brian Smith, TriWest Healthcare Alliance New uniforms: Comfort, function are top goals Officials from the Uniform Program Office continue to work for Airmen, researching and purchasing uniforms that provide more function, protection and comfort. The Air Force chief of staff met with office personnel for an update on clothing issues Airmen face as they support global mission requirements. Gen. Norton Schwartz said addressing current and near-term uniform needs takes precedence over introducing long-range new initiatives. It is paramount that we provide fully functional and appropriate uniforms for our Airmen as they carry out our worldwide, joint mission, General Schwartz said. It s critical that we respond to Air Force uniform needs since they affect every Airman, every day so we need to get it right. Changes are also in the works for the airman battle uniform. Too hot is how many Airmen described the current ABU. After working with other services and industry textile experts, Air Force officials will field a lighter weight fabric for the ABU coat. Called the improved airman battle uniform, the ABU coat will be updated with a durable, lighter weight, and more comfortable fabric. DOD officials promote World No Tobacco Day Monday was Memorial Day, a day set aside to honor the men and women who gave their lives in service to their country. Living freedom to the fullest by reducing unnecessary health risks is one way to honor the memories of those who ve died, Defense Department officials say. Sunday is World No Tobacco Day, sponsored by the World Health Organization. This year, for the first time, the DOD is endorsing the observance of WNTD by encouraging servicemembers to participate. The effort is part of DOD s multiyear tobacco cessation campaign, Quit Tobacco Make Everyone Proud. Air Force budget reflects new priorities The President and Secretary of Defense released details of fiscal 2010 budget proposal to the Congress, the media and the public. This budget proposal is designed to shift the priorities of the defense establishment and focuses on three themes: Reaffirm the commitment of the all-volunteer force, rebalance programs to institutionalize and enhance capabilities to fight the wars the U.S. is in today and scenarios we are most likely to face in the years ahead and reform how and what is purchased by fundamentally overhauling the approach to procurement, acquisition and contracting. The Air Force s budget proposal reflects these priorities. While the budget does not fund continued procurement of some high-interest modernization programs, the overall Air Force budget remains constant, allowing an opportunity to make new investment decisions. The willingness to make hard choices now will secure those capabilities that must be preserved for current and future fights, such as global integrated ISR, special operations, cyberspace superiority, and continued support for nuclear deterrence operations. The budget proposal also halts the drawdown of active duty end strength at 331,700, a net gain of 14,650 Airmen over previous plans. Finally, additional investments to the acquisition enterprise can be made. asp?id=470 SOUND OFF! How did you celebrate Memorial Day? Thought and prayed for heroes and forgotten veterans who served this country to include my dad (U.S. Army). Mr. CRESCENTE DINERO 56th Civil Engineer Squadron Airman WILLIAM SMITH 372nd Training Squadron Prayed and thought of all the U.S. veterans who fought and lost their lives for this grand country. Staff Sgt. RAMON NUNO 56th Logistics Readiness Squadron With my family at the pool and just being all together. When I woke up I thought about all the people who fought to keep us free in America. Ms. ELIZABETH BARELA 56th Force Support Squadron BANK OWNED, HORSE PROPERTY! Over 1.5 acres, of Horse Property. 5 Bedroom main home, 3 bedroom guest home. Parking for up to 8 cars. Close to Loop 101 and I-10 Call for details. Visit ArizonaHomeBroker.com ACHIEVERS Lou Osborn West Valley s Only Certified MAACO! Check internet for local coupon offers at Economy to State-of-the-Art Paint & Body Work Servicing You For 17 Years ALL Insurance Welcome! 15 Minutes East of Luke Air Force Base 7105 N. 51st. Ave. GLENDALE BRING IN THIS AD WITH A COPY OF ANY COLLISION ESTIMATE AND WE WILL BEAT IT BY 10%. IN MANY CASES WE ARE 33% LESS EXPENSIVE THAN ANY OTHER BODY SHOP. LIMITATION APPLY. OFFER VALID AT THE MAACO LOCATION ONLY AND EXCLUDES OTHER MAACO ESTIMATES

10 10 May 29, 2009 Thunderbolt STREET BEAT STREET BEAT The 56th Security Forces Squadron handled the following incidents from May 15 through 21. Tickets Security forces issued citations for 16 moving and seven non-moving violations. Traffic-related incidents May 15: Security forces responded to a major privately owned vehicle vs. a fixed object accident at Bldg An individual was issued a citation. There were no injuries. May 18: Security forces responded to a minor twovehicle accident between the parking lots of Bldgs. 930 and 931. There were no injuries. Emergency responses May 17: Security forces and firefighters responded to a 911 hang-up at Bldg A sweep of the area resulted in negative findings. The response was terminated. May 17: Security forces and firefighters responded to a medical emergency at the Lightning Gate. An individual was transported to an off-base hospital. May 19: Security forces and firefighters responded to a medical emergency at Bldg An individual was transported to an off-base hospital. May 21: Security forces and firefighters responded to a fire alarm at Bldg The response was terminated. Non-emergency responses May 15: Security forces responded to a report of shoplifting at Bldg Glendale police took control. May 16: Security forces responded to a report of two unattended, unclothed children walking in housing. The parents were located and first sergeants took control. May 17: Security forces responded to a report of shoplifting at Bldg Glendale police took control. May 17: Security forces responded to a report of damage to private property at Bldg parking lot. May 17: Security forces responded to a report of damage to government property on the flightline. May 17: Security forces was notified of a civil arrest by Glendale police. An active-duty member was arrested for DUI at Union Hills and Loop 101. May 18: Security forces responded to a report of animal feces piled under a couch at a residence in housing. An exterior sweep was conducted, resulting in no signs of forced entry; no evidence was left on scene. The response was terminated. May 19: Security forces was notified of a civil arrest by Surprise police. An active-duty member was arrested for DUI at Bell Road and Park Place. May 19: Security forces was notified of a suspicious vehicle driving near Bldg An individual claimed to be lost and was escorted off the installation. May 19: Security forces was notified of a civil arrest by New Mexico State Police. An active-duty person was arrested for DWI. May 19: Security forces responded to a noise complaint and broken window at Bldg An individual was detained for aggravated assault, damage to government property, DWI and failure to obey a lawful order. The individual was released to the first sergeant. Courtesy of Angelita Denofre, 56th SFS Swine flu not threat first thought to be, can still cause sickness Although H1N1, more commonly known as swine flu, has not turned out to be as dangerous or severe as originally thought, seasonal flu and swine flu are still circulating in the area and can make people sick. This week, Luke Air Force Base had its first confirmed H1N1 case in an active-duty member. Symptoms of H1N1 flu are similar to the seasonal human flu which may include high fever, headache, fatigue, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, muscle aches, nausea, vomiting and diarrhea. Most people who get sick with H1N1 flu are mildly to moderately ill for less than five days. The main way influenza is spread is through coughing or sneezing. Other ways include touching things that people infected with the flu virus have touched with their hands, such as door knobs, hand rails, elevator buttons. Infected people can infect others beginning one day before symptoms develop and up to seven days after becoming sick. To help prevent contracting the flu or passing it to others is by handwashing. Here are some handwashing tips. Wet hands, use soap and scrub hands vigorously for 20 seconds. If possible, turn off the faucet with a paper towel. Use the paper towel to open the door when exiting the restroom. If a hand washing facility is unavailable, use an alcohol-based hand sanitizer as a disinfectant. Always wash hands prior to eating, after sneezing and coughing, and after using the restroom. Other actions to stay healthy are below. Keep the nose and mouth covered with a tissue when coughing or sneezing. Dispose of the tissue immediately. Avoid touching eyes, nose or mouth. Germs easily spread that way. Stay home (if possible) when sick. CDC recommends that people stay home from work or school and limit contact with others to keep from infecting them. Avoid close contact with individuals who are sick. Get plenty of sleep, be physically active, manage stress, drink plenty of fluids and eat nutritious food. For more information, call 56th MDG Public Health at (623) Courtesy of Capt. Chelsea Johnson, 56th Aerospace Medicine Squadron

11 Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. Cave Tonitrum Rash of DUIs hits Luke In the last two weeks, Luke Air Force Base has had the largest rash of drunken driving incidents seen in over three years, with four Airmen charged with the offense. Tragically the Air Force looses far too many Airmen every year, said Gen. Stephen Lorenz, Air Education and Training Commander commander in a video released May 22. Since 9/11 we have lost over 500 of our fellow Airmen to preventable mishaps, while during the same time, losing 60 in combat. General Lorenz stated that fifty percent of deaths at home bases involve vehicles and most can be traced to deadly combinations of alcohol use, failure to wear seat belts or excessive speed. The four Luke Airmen that were caught driving under the influence did not harm themselves or others, and if they had been following the rule that has been taught in the Air Force since early 2004, they might have not found themselves in trouble with the law. The program is based on science and physiology about how the body processes alcohol. The first 0 stands for zero drinks for those younger than 21. The second 0 stands for zero DUI offenses. The 1 stands for one drink per hour to give the liver enough time to process the alcohol and the 3 stands for a maximum of three drinks per night to keep the body s bloodalcohol content below 0.05 percent. The program is a good program to follow when out on the town and as of Sept. 2008, the penalties for DUIs in Arizona became even stiffer, according to Ben Bruce, 56th Fighter Wing ground safety manager In Arizona, DUI penalties depend on the level of the charge, and on the offender s criminal record, especially previous DUI convictions within the past seven years. The following details what punishment the State of Arizona will impose on a person if convicted of a first offense DUI. Impaired to the Slightest Degree or BAC A person convicted of a DUI with a.080- NEWS Tragically the Air Force looses far too many Airmen every year. Since 9/11 we have lost over 500 of our fellow Airmen to preventable mishaps, while during the same time, losing 60 in combat..149 BAC can count on a minimum of 10 and up to 180 consecutive days in jail. In some cases, the court may suspend nine of the 10 days if the offender agrees to get an alcohol or drug evaluation and submit to treatment. Also, one will face around $1,800.00, plus jail costs of more than $35 a day and an automatic license suspension of 90 days. After the first 30 days, some offenders may receive a work or school permit for the remaining 60 days. In addition, one will also attend a mandatory substance Gen. Stephen Lorenz Air Education and Training Commander commander abuse evaluation and comply with any recommendations or be subject to additional jail time. The court may levy other actions such as community service, attendance at Mothers Against Drunk Driving Victims Impact Panels, as well as probation for up to five years. Furthermore, an ignition interlock device is required for 12 months after license reinstatement. That will cost $100 to install plus $75 a month to rent. Finally, if one chooses to hire a DUI attorney, the average cost to defend someone accused of DUI is approximately $4,000. Extreme DUI BAC A person convicted of a DUI with a.150- May 29, BAC can count on a minimum of 30 and up to 180 consecutive days in jail. Recent legislation does not allow a court to suspend any portion of the minimum 30 day sentence. Also, the offender faces around $3,000 in fines, plus jail costs which will be at least $1000 for 30 days. Conviction of Extreme DUI also carries an automatic license suspension of 90 days and other actions the court may levy as well as the mandatory ignition interlock device. Super Extreme DUI BAC.200+ A person convicted of a DUI with a.200 or higher can count on a minimum of 45 and up to 180 consecutive days in jail. The court will not suspend any portion of the minimum 45 day sentence. Also, the offender faces around $3,250 in fines, plus jail costs which will be at least $1,500 for 30 days. Conviction of Super Extreme DUI also carries an automatic license suspension of 90 days and other actions the court may levy as well as the mandatory ignition interlock device for 18 months. The penalties for second offenders increase exponentially as do penalties for those involved in an accident or having children under 15 in the car with them. Courtesy 56th FW Safety Office and 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs To advertise, please call toll free (877)

12 12 May 29, rd Fighter Squadron Panthers stand down by JUSTIN OAKES and 2nd Lt. RYAN DECAMP 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs The 63rd Fighter Squadron and Aircraft Maintenance Unit officially stood down at Luke Air Force Base May 22 after 68 years. The base has trained Panther F-16 pilots since Luke hosted a base-wide event honoring the 63rd FS, highlighting its legacy and tradition of work with the German air force and the Cactus Starfighter Squadron. This day is filled with mixed emotions, Col. Pete Schaub, 56th Operations Group commander, said. On one hand we celebrate the continuation of a wonderful relationship between the two Air Forces. On the other hand, we commemorate the successful and exciting history of the 63rd Panthers. Colonel Schaub served as the ceremony s presiding official as Lt. Col. Jack Maixner, 63rd FS commander, stood down his Panthers. Col. Schaub added that this does not signal the end of the Cactus Starfighter traditions. The strength of the association with Luke does not end with the mission of flying, Colonel Schaub said. It s also to be found in the community, personal relationships formed back then and continue to this day. From their scholarships to their charitable donations, the Cactus Starfighter Squadron is an important part of Luke s history and the west valley s history. Following World War II, German pilots began training at Luke in 1957 and continued training until These pilots and others eventually formed the Cactus Starfighter Squadron. You ll be very happy to know that the Cactus Starfighter Squadron Association of the 56th Fighter Wing will not end with the stand down of the 63rd, Colonel Schaub said. In fact, the association will continue to build upon its rich tradition. Before the Panthers could stand down, one more matter remained the realignment of the CSS. The event took place during the ceremony and officially realigned the CSS with the Top Hats of the 310th Fighter Squadron. The Cactus Starfighter Squadron is just as unique as its relationship to the 63rd, said retired German Air Force Lt. Gen. Peter Vogler, former CSS commander. Lt. Gen. Vogler said he is happy that the CSS and the 63rd FS could keep the personal nature they had between the two air forces all these years. We have enjoyed ever since, seeing young American fighter pilots raising stein and stories with their elder brethren, he said. It brought great pleasure that our idea had been accepted to heart. I am deeply honored to be the person today passing on the CSS flag from the 63rd to the 310th. The ceremony concluded with the furling of the guidon. When a squadron stands down or is deactivated, it is standard for the guidon a symbol and common rallying point of the squadron to retire in front of all the troops. After the formal part of the day, Thunderbolts rallied for one more celebration. A four-ship flyover kicked off the beginning of the 63rd FS stand down block party. It included a live performance by the band Steal Wool, made up of a variety of fighter pilots on base. Attendees also enjoyed catered cuisine as well. The celebration continued as the Panthers and Starfighters joined in a piano burning. Piano burning is an old fighter pilot tradition dating back to World War II times, said Capt. Nicholas Johnson, 63rd FS pilot. After the piano turned to ash, the party continued leaving the men and women of Luke to visit and reflect on the German and American pilots that will forever be remembered as the Panthers. The 63rd FS and AMU personnel will be integrated into other fighter squadrons around Luke, and the 27 aircraft of the 63rd FS will be taken over by the 309th FS. The stand down is a result of the Base Realignment and Closure Commission s decision to reduce F-16 squadrons in the Air Force, according to Gus Vinas, 56th Fighter Wing historian. Airman 1st Class Tracie Forte FAR LEFT: Honor Guard member, Airman 1st Class Michael Giles, furls the 63rd Fighter Squadron guidon during the 63rd FS stand down and Cactus Starfighter Squadron realignment. LEFT: Lt. Col. Jeffrey Lovelace, 56th Fighter Wing director of staff and former 63rd FS commander, and Bud Mahurin, former member of the 63rd Fighter Squadron and World War II and Korean War fighter ace, visit together in the 63rd FS heritage room March Airman 1st Class Sandra Welch Panthers of the 63rd Fighter Squadron, friends, and family watch as a piano blazes during the festivities. Airman 1st Class Sandra Welch Airman 1st Class Tracie Forte Retired German air force Lt. Gen. Peter Vogler presents Lt. Col. James McCune, 310th Fighter Squadron The Cactus Starfighter Squadron F-104 wing sits on display in the 310th Fighter Squadron conference room commander, with a jacket on behalf of the Cactus after the CSS realignment May 22 in Blgd Starfighter Squadron. Lt. Col. Jeffrey Lovelace, star, sings with the band stand down and Cactus S held in front of Bldg. 903

13 May 29, Airman 1st Class Tracie Forte The official party arrives to the formal portion of the 63rd Fighter Squadron stand down and Cactus Starfighter Squadron realignment May 22 in Hangar 913. Airman 1st Class Sandra Welch, 56th Fighter Wing director of staff and rock Steal Wool during the 63rd Fighter Squadron Starfighter Squadron realignment block party. Airman 1st Class Tracie Forte Members of the 63rd Fighter Squadron and Aircraft Maintenance Unit look on as retired German air force Lt. Gen. Peter Vogler speaks during the formal portion of the 63rd FS stand down and Cactus Starfighter Squadron realignment May 22 in Hangar 913. Airman 1st Class Tracie Forte Lt. Col. Steve S p e c k Speckhard, 301st Fighter Squadron commander, performs with Steal Wool during the 63rd Fighter Squadron stand down and Cactus Starfighter Squadron realignment block party.

14 14 May 29, 2009 Thunderbolt NEWS TRICARE provides portable benefits by KRISTEN WARD TriWest Healthcare Alliance If you re planning to or have recently moved to another duty station, you not only have a new community, but you may have a new regional TRICARE contractor managing your healthcare benefits. Rest assured though: no matter what TRICARE program you re using, your benefits are portable. Below is a to-do list before and when you arrive at your new home: Get routine care prior to your move since routine care isn t covered on the road if you re enrolled in TRICARE Prime. Update your address, and phone numbers in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System (DEERS) within 30 days of moving. You can do this in the following ways: Visit the local identification card office in person. Contact the office first to verify location and business hours. Call the Defense Manpower Data Center (DMDC) Support Office at (800) , (TTY/TDD for the deaf: (866) ), fax: (831) , or mail to: Defense Manpower Data Center, Support office, Attn: COA, 400 Gigling Road, Seaside, CA Log onto TRICARE s Beneficiary Web Enrollment site at appj/bwe/ Transfer your enrollment and request a new primary care manager by completing a TRICARE Prime Enrollment Application and PCM Change Form (DD Form 2876) form for yourself and each family member. This form is found at com>beneficiaries>find A Form or you can use the BWE Web site. If moving to a TRICARE Prime Remote location, switch your enrollment by submitting a new DD Form The enrollment transfer takes effect for your family after your new regional contractor receives the form. TRICARE Prime enrollments are porta- See TRICARE, Page 19 Takeout can eat up your savings. Pack your own lunch instead of going out. $6 saved a day x 5 days a week x 10 years x 6% interest = $19,592. That could be money in your pocket. Small changes today. Big bucks tomorrow. Go to feedthepig.org for free savings tips. NOW OPEN UNDER NEW MANAGEMENT in the Glendale Municipal Airport 10% discount with active military ID. Serving home-cooked breakfast and lunch with daily specials from 7 am to 3 pm, seven days a week. FRIDAY NIGHT SEAFOOD NIGHT From 4 to 8 pm, featuring All-You-Can-Eat Fried Fish for $11.95 Other delicious menu items also reasonably priced N. Glen Harbor Blvd HOME OF T HE F A L C O N S Heritage Elementary School CHARTER SCHOOL Give your child the gift of a rewarding education. Heritage is proud to offer a curriculum focused on family values in state-of-the-art facilities with great athletic programs and superior teaching staff. We provide students with a private school environment tuition free (K-8th). Your chance to WIN a netbook! * Enroll before the end of June and be entered for a chance to win one of ten netbooks! NOW ENROLLING 2 CAMPUSES IN GLENDALE W. OCOTILLO ROAD PRESCHOOL & K 6805 N. 125TH AVENUE 1ST 8TH GRADE CALL TODAY (623) AND ONLINE * No purchase, payment, or enrollment is necessary to enter or to win. A purchase, payment, school enrollment will not increase your chances of winning. Limited to one entry per person. All winners will be announced for ten (10) Acer notebooks July 8, 2009.

15

16 16 May 29, 2009 Thunderbolt SILVER WINGS POOL OPENS According to lifeguard staff, around 200 people showed up to the grand opening of the Silver Wings Pool on Saturday. The opening featured games and door prizes. LEFT: Staff Sgt. Robert Prince, 56th Force Support Squadron unit training manager, slides into the pool during the grand opening of the Silver Wings Pool. Silver Wings Pool opening weekend Photos by Airman 1st Class Ronifel Yasay W ith the weather heating up, the Luke Air Force Base community now has the opportunity to swim at Silver Wings Pool, which opened for the season May 23. For more information about aquatics programs at Luke, visit Airman 1st Class Sandra Mikayla Rivera, 2, daughter of Tech. Sgt. Joseph Rivera, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron, plays in the water during the grand opening of the Silver Wings Pool. About 200 Luke family members attended the grand opening of the Siliver Wings Pool next to the community center Saturday. One of the games, duck scoop, involved children floating in rafts and scooping up as many ducks as possible within a certain time limit. Mason Washington, 4, son of Tech. Sgt. Loretta Washington, 56th Medical Support Squadron healthcare information NCO-in-charge, plays duck scoop during the grand opening of the Silver Wings Pool Saturday. The object of the game is to gather as many ducks as possible.

17 Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. Cave Tonitrum Outdoor rec has it all on the cheap by Master Sgt. STEPHEN DELGADO 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs No matter what type of outdoor activity someone has planned, the Luke Air Force Base Outdoor Recreation facility has what you need. Everything from camping equipment to lawn mowers are available. We are here to provide whatever equipment people need to make their outdoor event successful, said Sam Harvey, 56th Force Support Squadron Outdoor Recreation manager. We can also advise someone as to what their needs are. If a family is planning a camping trip, we have everything they need such as tents, chairs, cots, sleeping bags, backpacks, stoves and even binoculars and compasses. Maybe it is a family reunion, a wedding reception or a holiday-get together, outdoor recreation has the tables, chairs and canopies needed to make the event special, Mr. Harvey said. Furthermore, there is a ton of sports equipment for everyone from the serious competitive sports person to someone who just wants to enjoy a casual game of golf. No matter what your favorite sport is, we have what you need including footballs, baseball equipment, horseshoes, volleyballs, basketballs, Frisbees, golf equipment and even paintball guns, said Mr. Harvey. Active duty personnel can reserve any item that requires a reservation six months in advance and retirees four months in advance. The personnel at outdoor recreation realize that there are a lot of people who are new to Arizona and aren t familiar with the plethora of places to hike, camp or fish, said Mr. Harvey. We have a reference center that gives people the opportunity to go the computer and search for lakes and scenic areas in the state, he said. A person can access a map, too. There are also newspaper articles that give plentiful amounts of information on various spots for people to visit. For the really adventurous person, outdoor recreation has numerous tours and activities such as tubing down the Salt River, rim to rim hikes in the Grand Canyon and whitewater rafting in the Colorado River, said Mr. Harvey. Many of these events originate at Fort Dale Bauman, 56th Force Support Squadron marine mechanic, explains the ins and outs of one of the five fishing boats available for rental at Outdoor Rec to Army Specialist and wounded warrior Brian Billy and his daughter Kantiarra Billy, 9. NEWS Tuthill, near Flagstaff, which is part of outdoor recreation, he said. There is a first-class hotel there, as well as the opportunity to obtain any equipment needed for snow skiing. With summer rapidly approaching, outdoor recreation is having a June special for camping enthusiasts, according to Mr. Harvey. We are offering a 10 by 10 tent, four sleeping bags, one stove, a lantern and a large cooler for $30, he said. The regular price is $55. Outdoor recreation also maintains the base swimming pool, which is open from May 23 to Sept. 27 and Fowler and Silver Wings Parks, said Mr. Harvey. He wanted to remind base personnel that when its Christmas season, outdoor recreation has Santa Claus suits, to enhance any holiday party. Outdoor Recreation is part of the Community Services Flight, in the 56th FSS. For more information, contact Mr. Harvey at (623) Visit lukeservices. com for prices and upcoming activities. Deborah Silliman Wolfe May 29, More housing help on the way More help is on the way for those who sold a home at less than they paid for it. President Obama signed the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act adding $555 million to help specific Defense Department employees who took a loss on a home. These funds will aid the Homeowner s Assistance Program. To receive this money, a few qualifications must be met. Those who qualify for assistance must be an active or former member of one of the five branches of the U.S. military or be a DOD civilian and have sold a home since Certain members also have priority over others. Wounded service members who need to move for medical care and families of those killed on a deployment will be helped first. Second are military members and DOD civilians affected by the Base Realignment and Closure Commission who do not need to prove that the closing of the base or the housing market decline caused the loss on the home. The final priority involves those with a permanent change of station. Financial assistance will come retroactively and only those who PCS d between July 1, 2006, and Dec. 31, 2009, will qualify. For more information, visit the Homeowners Assistance Program Web site at usace.army.mil. Courtesy of 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs You See A Puppy, A Blind Person Sees The World 371 E. Jericho Turnpike Smithtown, NY a CFC participant Provided as a public service A special online community for families of babies in neonatal intensive care Find help and hope at shareyourstory.org La Loma Lifestyle Independent living with comfort, convenience and style. C-4 Model / 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath / Approx. 1,431 Sq. Ft. *The money-back guarantee applies as long as the Care Center has not been used within the first six months. Call today for your private tour. A Non-Profit Life-Care Community (623) Located at the northwest corner of Camelback & Litchfield roads Denny Boulevard Litchfield Park, AZ

18 18 May 29, 2009 Thunderbolt La Loma Senior Living Community Retirement Has Never Looked So Good! Enjoy independence and security within a comfortable, residential lifestyle. La Loma Senior Living Community, located in the heart of beautiful Litchfield Park, a suburb of Phoenix abundant with neighborly spirit and vibrant charm, offers luxurious residences and a care-free, active lifestyle to its residences. We selected La Loma as our home for its convenient location to most areas serving our lifestyle, for the overall program of meals and housekeeping, and to totally relieve our children of the decision-making burden as to where we would live when assisted living or skilled nursing was require, said La Loma residence Glenn and Margaret Moore. The community offers abundant amenities, a wide range of services, and spacious, well appointed casitas and apartments. From the beautiful pool and spa to the warm and inviting dining room and atrium cafeteria, everything at La Loma has been designed with enjoyment and comfort in mind. Under the company s life-care concept, community members have the freedom to move among various levels of residential options as their health needs require and allow. Community members enjoy a convenient, maintenance-free lifestyle that optimizes wellness and independence and unlimited access to on-site assisted living and skilled nursing care if needed. Leave your worries behind. Focus on the things you enjoy most and the things you ve always wanted to do. Experience La Loma Village...a community of friendly neighbors...convenience...and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you have planned well for the future. La Loma Village is non-profit, community owned and directed by a volunteer board of directors. Envision Lending Group, Inc. Phone: (623) Fax: (877) Envision Lending Group, Inc. is an award-winning industry leader and is licensed in 18 states. They re over 1100 loan professionals strong but their loan originators provide a dis nc ve personal touch. Brian Smith s Envision Lending Group is serving all of Arizona and will come to you in the local Phoenix area to answer any ques ons for you. Envision Lending Group has several programs to fit your needs. The most commonly used loan types are: FHA, VA, Home Loans, Streamline, and Interest Rate Reduc on Refinance Loans. Your ability to purchase a new home is primarily driven by down payment, credit and monthly income. Your mortgage professional will help you select the best program to fit your personal situa on. Envision Lending Group s resources allow them to meet virtually every need. So whether your buying your first home, refinancing, or building that dream home, give them a call at (623) to talk to one of their loan professionals and they will be happy to help you get the right loan for your needs. Jet Fuel Your Career Since 1926, Embry-Riddle Aeronau cal University has become the premier university for studying the science, prac ce and business of avia on, aerospace and engineering. Today, we lead the world in avia on and aerospace higher educa on with over 130 worldwide loca ons and two residen al campuses in Daytona Beach, Florida and Presco, Arizona. While we con nue to expand the defini on of our university, the Luke Campus is here to help you explore your poten al with exci ng degrees offered in the classroom and online. At Embry-Riddle s Luke Campus, we want to help you achieve your goals and advance your career, even if work responsibili es and family obliga ons prevent you from a ending classes on a tradi onal college campus. Our classes are offered in an accelerated, nine-week format, with new terms beginning in January, March, May, August and October. Online programs are also available. These diverse and dynamic programs support and connect students in a virtual learning community through Web-based support groups, discussions and other online forums. At the Luke Campus, you can get your associate s and/or bachelor s degree in Avia on Maintenance, Professional Aeronau cs and Technical Management, or a master s degree in Aeronau cal Science, Management and Technical Management. Cer ficates are also available in Avia on Maintenance Technology Part 65 and Avia on Safety. Our courses are taught by experts with real-world experience who are leaders in their fields. To learn more about the Luke Campus, call (623) , or at luke.center@erau.edu. The leaders of tomorrow are studying with Embry-Riddle today. Local company turns rent-to-own profits into community outreach projects Aaron Rents, Inc., the na on s leader in the sales and lease ownership, specialty retailing and rental of residen al and office furniture, consumer electronics and home appliances and accessories, feels it is their job to give back to the country s servicemembers who protect our freedoms. Like all companies, we are a company in the business of making money. But what makes us different is our commitment to our communi es. The more money we make, the more we give back. And we think there is no one be er to give back to than the men and women in uniform. The company recently donated more than 5,600 hours and $500,000 in product service dona ons to several communi es, including the Armed Forces. Our military men and women make tremendous sacrifices every day for freedom and democracy, said Sen. Saxby Chambliss (R-GA). I m pleased Aaron s is taking the ini a ve to give back to a community that deserves our fullest support. I applaud Aaron s leadership and philanthropy. The company donates me and money to communi es throughout the U.S. annually through their Community Outreach Program, or ACORP. Through ACORP, Aaron s associates have donated thousands of hours of associate me to community service projects in more than 1,600 ci es across the U.S. and $6.7 million in goods and services dona ons. This year, the company donated me and products to Bethesda Naval Medical Center in Maryland, The Hunter Holmes McGuire Veteran s Administra on Medical Center in Virginia, and Walter Reed Fisher House in Washington D.C. The company also hosted their first 5K Walk/Run in Maryland to benefit the Wounded Warrior Project. We are a rent-to-own company that helps people get merchandise they want at affordable prices, but beyond that, we are a company that cares about people. We can work out payment plans for furniture, electronics, and other household items to meet everyone s budgets. Then we take a good chunk of our profits and give it back to the local communi es where we operate. The way we do business, everyone benefits everyone wins. To find out more about products carried by Aaron s or learn more about their community outreach efforts, call your local Aaron s at ; ; ; or visit their Web site at Desert Gardens Apartments/Desert Gardens Mini Storage West Glendale Avenue Glendale, AZ Hours: Mon-Fri: 8 am 6 pm, Sat: 9 am 5 pm, Sun: 12 pm 5 pm Committed to serving our military Desert Gardens Apartments West Glendale Avenue Desert Gardens II West Glendale Ave Flexible lease terms, weekly to 13 month leases available Furnished, unfurnished, and corporate suites available 54 channel premium cable included at no extra charge Discounted phone service with no hook up fees High-speed internet available Surveillance cameras throughout Maricopa County Sheriff s Officers as courtesy patrol Caring, knowledgeable on-site management 24/7 emergency maintenance Bilingual staff Assigned covered parking Close to public transportation Special discounts for active duty military Additional storage available Desert Gardens Mini Storage West Glendale Avenue Climate Controlled Units, air conditioned & evaporation cooled All steel construction Video surveillance Gated access Military, senior and student discounts Affordable Den stry for the Whole Family Peoria and West Phoenix Families Rely on Smile Fitness for Quality Care At Smile Fitness Dental Center, We Care About You! Our experienced team of den sts offers general, preven ve, cosme c and restora ve treatment. Families and individuals depend on us for personalized den stry that s accessible, affordable and all under one roof. When your treatment is complete, we provide maintenance programs to ensure you a Life me of Smiles. We have assembled a team of compassionate, experienced and knowledgeable den sts to deliver quality dental care. We offer early, late and same-day appointments. We are open Saturday at our two conveniently located dental offices. You ll love our fast, efficient service, flexible payment op ons and money-saving specials. Discover den stry done right at Smile Fitness Dental Center! The Dental Prac ce that s Too Good to be True Call Smile Fitness Dental Center in Peoria or West Phoenix today to schedule your next appointment. We provide Affordable Den stry for the en re family, all under one roof West Union Hills Dr., Glendale, AZ N. 75th Ave, Suite 112, Phoenix, AZ At the Sheraton Crescent Hotel Phoenix, European elegance combines with casual southwestern ambiance in a lush, tropical se ng. We feature 342 luxurious guest rooms, 5 dining op ons, 16 indoor mee ng spaces totaling 24,500 square feet along with lush garden, fountain courtyard and pa o for memorable outdoor events. Hi Speed and Wi-Fi Internet may be u lized throughout the hotel. Out of town doesn t mean out of touch, in the new Indigo Lounge we feature the Link@sheraton were you can stay connected. For leisure ac vi es, guests have access to a full-service health and fitness center featuring (2) indoor racquet courts, swimming pool and spa; basketball and (2) tennis courts. Our central loca on in the heart of Phoenix places us just minutes away from championship golf, shopping, dining and Phoenix Sky Harbor Interna onal Airport. Yates Buick Pontiac GMC W. Test Drive, Goodyear, AZ Phone: Hours of Operation: Service: M-F 7am to 6pm, Sat. 7am 5pm, Sun. closed Sales: M-F 8am to 9pm, Sat. 8am-7pm Sun. 11am-5pm Parts Dept: M-F 7:30am to 5:30pm, Sat. 8am-5pm, Sun. closed Year Established: Family Owned since 1984 Owner: Michael Yates Quick Lube Service, Parts, Sales. Vehicle: New to you (used inventory) & New GMC, Buick & Pontiac purchases. In 1984, Michael Yates opened the doors to GMC Truck Country on Dysart Road in Avondale. He had 9 employees and you had to use MC84 and pass a lot of cotton fields to get there. In 1996 he opened his doors again; Yates Pontiac GMC on I-10 and Litchfield Road; new building, even better service, and an even better product for our customers. In 2003, the area was growing, and again, so did Yates Pontiac GMC. We added the Buick Franchise for our customers. We think our Buick customers were just as happy as we were. They could get their Buicks serviced closer to home. So many changes and so many years, but, one thing has always stood true: Loyal customers who have become our friends; great service, and as always a great place your vehicle can call home. Thank you for being such loyal customers for the last 25 years. Be assured we have plenty of room in the Yates family for many more! Pointe Hilton Resorts Squaw Peak Tapatio Cliffs Phone: (602) The Pointe Hilton Resorts are Famous for Fun and are offering cool fun and sizzling deals with our Summer Splash Program. Guests of Pointe Hilton Squaw Peak Resort and Pointe Hilton Tapatio Cliffs Resort will enjoy complimentary meals for kids 10 years and under, and the value of the Summer Splash Savings Pass; your access to resort wide savings to include dining, spa and salon services, golf and be sure to visit our gift shops. All summer long guests can enjoy two water parks, 16 cool pools, poolside fare and tropical drinks, dive-in movies, Wii competitions, miniaturegolf, children s poolside activities, luxury spas, championship golf, all-suite accommodations, and themed dining. Reserve your Pointe Hilton Resort Summer Splash getaway by contacting us today at SPLASH, HILTONS or visit us online at www. pointehilton.com.

19 Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. Cave Tonitrum TRIWEST (From Page 14) ble for both active duty and retired families. Retirees can transfer enrollments twice in a year; the second move has to be back to the original region. Please note that before you move, you do not need to unenroll from TRICARE Prime or Prime remote. If you voluntarily move to a non-prime area, you may be locked out of Prime coverage for up to a year. Prime-enrolled retirees who pay their enrollment fees by allotment, electronic funds transfer or recurring credit card payments should contact their new regional contractor to ensure that those payments are transferred to that new contractor. TriWest, the west region contractor, can be reached at (888) TRIWEST ( ). If you are visiting remember to register and sign up for Quick- Alert, TriWest s automated authorization and referral status notification system for beneficiaries living in TRICARE s west region. QuickAlert s you a notice that your request has been processed and provides a link for you to view the result online. NEWS May 29, 2009 Thunderbolt assists with new building for Iraqi air force Members of the Coalition Air Force Training Team handed over three new buildings to the Iraqi air force May 13 in a traditional dedication ceremony. Among the new facilities were a a munitions storage area, an avionics testing facility, and a communications building. According to Lt. Col. Angel Olivares, CAFTT base support unit director, the new facilities greatly enhance the capabilities of the Iraqi air force. The projects are designed to provide the Iraqi air force at Taji with the basic infrastructure to allow it to complete its flying and training missions, the colonel said. The Iraqis take over a new munitions maintenance and storage area, modeled after the munitions storage facilities used by the U.S. Air Force. The maintenance facility consists of three bays designed to conduct maintenance on rockets, chaff and flares, and ammunition, and also has office space for the technicians. The significance of this munitions area is that it has increased the capabilities of the Iraqi air force by 400 percent, said Tech. Sgt. Otis Reed, deployed from the 56th Equipment Maintenance Squadron Conventional Maintenance assistant NCO-in-charge and deployed as munitions advisor to the Iraqi air force. This building will now be used for weapons checkout and munitions inspections as well as a munitions building. The avionics testing facility is the second building dedicated to the Iraqis and is unique because the equipment inside is from Russia and uses more than six electrical power supply variations. The facility is designed to allow the phase testing of all MI and UH-1 electronic components. There are only two facilities of this type in the world one in Russia and now one in Taji, Iraq, said Master Sgt. Bonnie Trajanowski, CAFTT air advisor. It gives the Iraqi air force the capability to test and make adjustments to all the avionics equipment, to include all instruments, auto pilot and radios on the Mi-17. Sergeant Trajanowski, a native of New Britain, Conn., who is deployed from Barksdale Air Force Base, La., said the biggest challenge for her team has been receiving all of the Russian equipment, translating the operating procedures into English so coalition advisors can understand, and then retranslating into Arabic for the Iraqi air force. She said it was a necessary step to ensure the success of the Iraqi aerial mission. With the shortage of parts and aircraft, we have to ensure that these helicopters are performing at the optimal level and with this new facility we can now make sure that happens, she said. The third and final facility is the communications building, which is also a one-of-a-kind for the Iraqi air force. It is designed to house all the communication needs for the entire base, to include phone, Internet and radio and will be used to service all repairs on those capabilities, Colonel Olivares said, who is deployed from HQ NATO SHAPE, Belgium, and is a native of El Paso, Texas. Courtesy of 355th Fighter Wing Public Affairs and 56th FW PA Does Your Cup Runneth Over? 4.01% APY* No Minimum Balance No ATM Fees** When you meet these monthly requirements: 0.25% APY* *APY=Annual Percentage Yield **If requirements are met W. Glendale Ave., Luke AFB Other branches: Avondale Glendale Peoria Phoenix Surprise Recipe for My Cup Runneth Over Come and share a cup or two of your love, compassion, and warmth with our terminally ill patients and their families Hospice of Arizona is currently looking for people like you to join our Volunteer team. Our volunteers spend time with patients in their homes, group homes, care centers or our inpatient units. Free training classes are held monthly to become a certified hospice volunteer. Please contact our volunteer department at (602) for more information.

20 20 May 29, 2009 Thunderbolt DIVERSIONS Summer s here Members of the military community play a game of Duck Scoop during the grand opening of the Silver Wings Pool May 23. The object of the game is to gather as many ducks as possible. LUKE WEATHER FRI SAT SUN MON The Luke weather forecast is provided by the 56th Operations Support Squadron Weather Flight. CHAPEL CORNER The Luke Chapel team is committed to ensuring spiritual care for the entire family. Chapel offices are in the Luke Community Chapel, located between the Officers Club and fitness center. For more information, call (623) COM-Chapel on the Mall LCC-Luke Community Chapel Worship schedule Protestant Gospel service is 9:30 a.m. at COM Praise service is 11 a.m. at LCC Children s church is 10 a.m. at COM Children s church is 11 a.m. at LCC Youth group is 7 p.m. Sunday at LCC Catholic Mass is 9:15 a.m. and 5 p.m. at LCC Airman 1st Class Ronifel Yasay Weekday Mass is noon at LCC Other faith groups For information on Islamic, Jewish, Buddhist or other faith groups, call the chapel at (623) Chapel activities Baptism Baptism seminars for parents of children age 7 or younger are 7 p.m. the first two Mondays of the month Weddings Weddings for either chapel must be scheduled several months in advance Singles ministry Wallyball is 5 p.m. Thursdays at the gym Bible study is 7 p.m. Thursdays at the Oasis Singles meet for dinner at 6 p.m. Fridays and Saturdays at the Oasis Youth events Catholic youth group is 6:30 p.m. Tuesdays at LCC A chaplain may be reached after duty hours by calling (623) Family Brunch and Bingo at the Desert Star Club 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. June 7 $1 per bingo card $16.95 per adult $7.95 per youth, ages 6 to 10 $2.95 per child to age 5 nonmembers add $2 For details on 56th Force Support Squadron programs, visit COMMUNITY DIGEST Club Thunderbolt (623) Club Thunderbolt will be closed the month of May except for special events Desert Star Club (623) Family brunch and bingo 10:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. June 7; $16.95 per adult, $7.95 per child, ages 6 to 10, $2.95 per child age 5 and under; $1 per bingo card Bingo Win $1,000 jackpot; free admission for club members, guests; admission $5 per nonmember; buffet supper $7 per person; cards available 5 p.m., early bird game 5:30 p.m., games begin 6 p.m. Wednesdays Evening bar snacks 5 to 6 p.m. Thursdays and Fridays; free bar snacks, pool, darts, juke box Thursday evening specials, entertainment 4 p.m. boss and buddy night; 5 to 6 p.m. free bar snacks; 8 p.m. karaoke Friday evening entertainment 4:30 to 8:30 p.m. drink specials, snacks; 8:30 p.m. to closing DJ music Fort Tuthill (623) Outdoor adventure program trips Visit for upcoming 2009 trip dates, details Outdoor Recreation (623) Salt River tubing Tube Lower Salt River rapids; tennis shoes, aqua shoes recommended; children must be eight years of age or four feet tall to tube; trip departs 9 a.m. returns 6 p.m. June 6; $20 per person; registration deadline Tuesday McViper s Irish Pub (623) Chess Club 6 p.m. Tuesdays Texas Hold Em 6 p.m. Tuesdays; weekly, monthly prizes; monthly winners advance to championship Dec.15 Internet Café Check out Nintendo Wii, Xbox 360 play titles including: Wii Sports, NFS: Carbon, Marvel: UA, Halo 3, Gears of War, Call of Duty 4, Call of Duty: World at War, NCAA 09, Army of 2, Guitar Hero III, Rock Band, Madden 09; Internet café hours 5 to 9 p.m. Monday through Thursday, 5 to 11 p.m. Friday; closed Saturday, Sunday and holidays Community Center (623) Freedom Fest 6 to 9 p.m. July 4, Fowler Park, games, water park, live music, fireworks Casting call Theater group for adults; acting, singing, improvisation, backstage support, lighting, set building, directing, make up, wardrobe; workshops are 6 p.m. Thursday, base theater Falcon Dunes (623) Online tee-time reservation Reserve tee-time at Junior golf clinics 8 to 10 a.m. daily Tuesday through June 5, June 9 through 12; includes instruction on stance, grip, putting, chipping, fullswing, etiquette; $49 per golfer, ages 6 to 17; sign up by calling number above Youth Programs (623) Missoula Children s Theatre 10 a.m. June 15 auditions for Princess and the Pea followed by a two-hour rehearsal; selected participants must be present for entire time and all rehearsals, performance 7 p.m. June 19 Air Force youth world-wide bowling program 11 a.m. June 10 Luke youth, ages 5 to 18, bowl three games vying for high score and high game; $7 per person includes bowling, shoe rental; register by June 6 at the youth center or Thunderbolt Lanes Youth basketball clinic Youth, ages 6 to12, learn basketball fundamentals from Tom Kuyper, coach and former professional player June 22 to 26; $20 per youth program member; $30 per nonmember; participation limited to 40 children; to register call the youth center Gymnastics 5 to 6 p.m. beginners, ages 6 to 8; 6 to 7 p.m. Intermediate I, ages 9 to 12; 7 to 8 p.m. Intermediate II, ages 13 to 16, Mondays, Wednesdays; $30 per student, four classes per month; $40 per student, eight classes per month Piano lessons Youth, ages 6 to 18, 4 p.m. Mondays, 2 p.m. Saturdays at youth center; $70 per student per month, one 30-minute session per week Youth center family memberships $20 per year per child Open Rec program Participants, ages 9 to 12, attend activities for a school year; $40 per child; additional costs may be required for special activities Library (623) Online databases Petersons for college and vocational information; Infotrac for student databases; Defense Technical Information Center for abstracts of defense related reports and books; EBSCO for access to business periodicals, newspapers; NEWSBANK for newspapers; SIRS for research on current social issues, government documents Fitness center (623) Spring into summer 5K fun run 6:30 a.m. June 12 starting at the 944th Fighter Wing, Bldg. 988; prizes, refreshments, trophies, T-shirts Inform., tickets, travel (623) AF vacation club Two to six people enjoy resort vacations at more than 3,500 destinations for $329 per unit per week Tickets to area attractions Ultra Star Cinema, Harkins or AMC movie passes are $6.50 each; Phoenix Zoo tickets are $12.50 per adult, $5.50 per child, ages 3 through 12, and $8.50 per senior, ages 60 and above; Castles and Coasters pass is $18.50 per adult, free for children, ages 3 and younger; Pima Air Museum pass is $9 per adult, $6 per child, ages 7 to 12 Thunderbolt Lanes (623) Good old days special Value pricing 3 to 9 p.m. Thursdays; 75 cents each for bowling, shoe rental, hot dog, small beverage Bowling lunch special $1 per game with purchase of $4.50 lunch; 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. Wednesday through Friday at snack bar inside Thunderbolt Lanes Rent-a-lane bowling special $5 per person per hour from 5 to 9 p.m. Thursdays XTREME bowling Music, light show, bowling 9:30 p.m. to midnight today, Saturday; $13 per club member, $14 per nonmember Family XTREME bowling Noon to 4 p.m. Sundays; $19.95 per lane for two hours of bowling or $2 per adult, $1.50 per youth to age 18; limited to five people per lane Colorama Bowl to win cash prizes starting at 6 p.m. Saturdays; bowl three games for $13 per person; sign up to participate starting at 5 p.m. Practice special Practice bowling skills 3 to 9 p.m. Wednesday; $1 per game, $1 shoe rental per youth; $1.25 per game, $1.25 shoe rental per adult Birthday bowling parties Birthday bowling package for youth to age 18; open to 3 p.m. Tuesdays through Saturdays; bowlers receive two games, shoe rental, food, beverage, ice cream; $8 per person Family child care (623) Office hours 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. Monday through Friday for assistance in obtaining child care; FCC lending program is open for providers from 4 to 5 p.m. Monday through Wednesday; 4 to 6:30 p.m. Thursday; one Saturday per month, time, date to be announced Crustano s Deli (623) Breakfast buffet 7:30 to 10 a.m. Monday through Friday; $3.95 per member, $4.95 per nonmember Silver Wings Pool (623) Lap swim 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday through Friday; 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Saturday, Sunday; no charge for lap swim only Open weekends 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.