Kaiserslautern American - June 19, 2020

NEWS

Senate confirms Brown to be 22nd Air Force chief of staff, Page 5

FEATURE

F-4 Phantom II restoration, Pages 8-9

FEATURE

Airlifter of the Week, Page 12

June 19, 2020 | Volume 44, Number 24

FEATURE

Baumholder Family Housing — summer housing surge, Page 15

LIFESTYLE

Europe’s biggest sandstone cave, Page 20

Read the KA online at KaiserslauternAmerican.com

Fallen hero honored, memorialized at Ramstein Story and photo by Airman 1st Class John R. Wright 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Ramstein leadership and Kaiserslautern Military Community members gathered to honor and memorialize a fallen hero during a road dedication ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, June 16.

The newly completed Rodriguez Road was named in remembrance of Maj. Rodolfo “Rod” I. Rodriguez, former 86th Construction and Training Squadron contingency training flight commander, who was killed by a terrorist bomb in Islamabad, Pakistan, Sept. 20, 2008.

Maj. Rodriguez began his assignment at Ramstein in May 2005. For the majority of his time here, he was the 435th Civil Engineer Squadron — now the 86th Civil Engineer Squadron — readiness flight chief of design and commander.

Brig. Gen. Mark R. August, See FALLEN HERO, Page 2

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Mark R. August, 86th Airlift Wing commander, speaks at a road dedication ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, June 16. The newly completed Rodriguez Road was named in remembrance of Maj. Rodolfo I. Rodriguez, former 86th Construction and Training Squadron contingency training flight commander, who was killed by a terrorist bomb in Islamabad, Pakistan, Sept. 20, 2008.

Phased reopenings: Fitness Center and Child Development Center

by Staff Sgt. Jourdan Barrons 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Team Ramstein leaders hosted a virtual town hall June 12 to provide updates and answer questions about the phased reopenings of the Southside Fitness Center and Child Development Center.

Brig. Gen. Mark R. August, 86th Airlift Wing commander, and Chief Master Sgt. Ernesto Rendon Jr., 86th AW command chief, addressed traveling outside of the local area and what health

protection condition Bravo will look like. They also gave further guidance on European Command travel policies.

Lt. Col. Brandi Rountree, 786th Force Support Squadron commander, provided information on the Southside Fitness Center reopening. Ms. Melissa Wesley, Child and Youth Services flight chief, talked about the first phase of child care operations.

What follows are summarized answers to many questions asked during the town hall.

If Germany is “green”, why are we still limited to travel within Rheinland-Pfalz?

In this particular case “green” is referring to a permanent change of station. EUCOM guidance prevents military members from crossing international borders.

Why are we only opening the Southside Fitness Center?

In looking at German guidance, Air Force guidance and hygiene protocols, Southside Fitness Center is the one facility

that allows us to adhere to all protocols so we can maximize space and allow more customers.

Can you clarify the requirement for face coverings for children attending CDCs? Do they have to be made of cloth?

Yes, the face coverings must be made of cloth. It does not have to be a mask specifically. It can be a scarf or a buff as long as it provides proper coverage.

We ask that you bring in three to five daily.

Any possibility of gym appointments earlier than 0600?

Yes, we are looking at that. We are looking to open Northside next with staggered appointments starting at 0500.

I am a dual military spouse but my spouse is stationed at Spangdahlem. Will I be classified as dual military or a single spouse?

See TOWN HALL, Page 3

Kaiserslautern American

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June 19, 2020

FALLEN HERO from Page 1 86th Airlift Wing commander, remarked that when it came time to decide on a name for the new road, leadership asked the wing for ideas. What came back was a list of individual Airmen who had certainly offered a great deal of sacrifice to Ramstein Air Base or their particular units.

However, one engineer, Maj. Rodolfo Rodriguez, stood out as the clear winner.

Caryn Rodriguez, who was able to make the overseas trip from Colorado to be a guest speaker at the ceremony, revealed the newly installed road sign after sharing some words about her late husband.

“He embodied service before self,” Rodriguez said. “As Gen. George C. Marshall so aptly stated, ‘there is no limit to the good you can do if you don’t care who gets the credit.’ In life Rod preferred to serve in quiet anonymity and to give others recognition. However, I believe today he is proud.”

After the dedication, Mrs. Rodriguez was presented with a coin by Lt. Col. Kathryn M. Kilker, 86th CES commander, to thank her for being a part of the ceremony.

Kilker advocated for the repair of the road to provide safer access to Ramstein housing.

“We had the opportunity to fix a traffic flow safety problem here at Ramstein by repairing the old base exchange road using some of the Commander in Chief’s Installation Excellence Award funds that we received last year,” Kilker said.

As a friend and co-worker of Rodriguez, and someone who was sponsored by him upon her arrival to Ramstein in 2005, Kilker championed for the name Rodriguez Road to honor one of the squadron’s fallen heroes.

“I think about Rod often, especially being the commander of the 86th CES, which includes Engineering Flight, where I met him,” Kilker said. “He truly left a legacy and made an impact on all of us.”

U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Sean Katz, 86th Civil Engineer Squadron fire department flight superintendent, watches as Civil Engineer vehicles drive on the recently completed Rodriguez Road during a road dedication ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, June 16. The vehicles were the first to drive on the new road, commemorating the memorialization of Maj. Rodolfo I. Rodriguez, a former 86th Construction and Training Squadron contingency training flight commander, who was killed by a terrorist bomb in Islamabad, Pakistan, Sept. 20, 2008.

Caryn Rodriguez, widow of U.S. Air Force Maj. Rodolfo I. Rodriguez, unveils the newly installed Rodriguez Road sign at a dedication ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, June 16.

Rodriguez, who traveled overseas to be a speaker at the ceremony, revealed the road sign after sharing some words about her late husband.

Caryn Rodriguez, widow of U.S. Air Force Maj. Rodolfo I. Rodriguez, speaks at a road dedication ceremony memorializing her late husband at Ramstein Air Base, June 16.

Ramstein leadership and Kaiserslautern Military Community members attended the ceremony to honor the fallen hero.

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Kathryn M. Kilker, 86th Civil Engineer Squadron commander, coins Caryn Rodriguez, widow of Maj. Rodolfo I. Rodriguez, at a road dedication ceremony at Ramstein Air Base, June 16. As a friend and co-worker of Maj. Rodolfo I. Rodriguez, and someone who was sponsored by him upon her arrival to Ramstein in 2005, Kilker championed for the name Rodriguez Road to honor one of Civil Engineer’s fallen heroes.

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Kaiserslautern American

TOWN HALL from Page 1 You will be classified as dual military and will be considered in our Phase Two. The only cases for dual military to get an exception is if one of the members is deployed.

Can we hold vigils on base to show solidarity with civil injustice?

We have set up a process when it comes to things like vigils to make sure we provide safety. COVID-19 is still going on so we can’t have gatherings of more than ten and we need to coordinate with the public health team. We also have to coordinate with equal opportunity to make sure we stay on the right target. If it’s a vigil, Chaplains need to lead it by providing the script and coordinating everything that goes forward.

At what phase can personal trainers return to the fitness centers?

Personal trainers can resume services during Phase Five. We are still looking at dates for that to start. We are waiting until Phase

Five so we can maximize our space and the amount of customers we have in the facility.

When will youth sports start?

Youth sports, to include youth programs, are starting in Phase Five. COVID-19 restrictions require a lot of staff. For Phases 1-4 we are utilizing the youth sports staff in the mission essential child care facilities.

When Germany’s border restrictions end, can we travel outside the country after that date?

No, EUCOM guidance states we cannot cross international borders and we’ll let you know as soon it is updated.

Can non-U.S. active duty personnel make gym appointments as well?

Yes, we are opening up our appointments to our NATO active duty partners during Phases 1-3.

For our reservists and retirees the gym will open to you during Phase Four.

What’s the plan for the school age program? Since I

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am not high on the priority list do I risk losing my spot?

No, your slot will be waiting for you when we can provide you care in the appropriate phase. Please note, families won’t be charged while we are not providing you service.

What is the process for getting events approved on base?

For official things like retirements and promotions contact Base Protocol. Different events of more than 10 people must go to the base gatekeeper. We need people to be proactive due to the public health and legal requirements so please submit requests 10 business days in advance.

Does Phase Two of the Child Development Center reopening include active duty with Department of Defense civilian spouses?

Active duty military with a working spouse are covered in Phase Three.

Can dependents travel to and from the U.S. and outside the state of Rheinland-Pfalz?

Graphic by Staff Sgt. Kirsten Brandes

June 19, 2020

We continue to ask DOD dependents and family members to stay in the state.

When can military to civilian couples use CDCs? Though we do not yet have a date, those members will be accepted during Phase Three.

When will the testing center reopen?

We do have testing capability now, but the focus is currently on promotion and military upgrade training.

Is there any talk about face coverings no longer being required?

The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is still telling us that this is the best way to slow the transmission of COVID-19 and we don’t see that changing anytime soon. This will continue to be a balance with our German counterparts.

For a list of frequently asked questions visit the COVID-19 page on Ramstein’s website.

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TAKE NOTE

KMC BLOTTER

COMPILED BY THE 569TH USFPS AND 86TH SFS

Photo by Golubovy / Shutterstock.com

COVID-19 updates for KMC Looking for updated information regarding coronavirus and changes to base facilities? Visit www.ramstein.af.mil/COVID-19/ Expired ID cards Attention: All Common Access and Identification Cards need to be current by June 30 to gain access to Ramstein Air Base and surrounding installations. If your CAC is already expired or expires within 30 days, please book an appointment at https:// booknow.appointment-plus.com/y7jgzct0/ For dependent IDs that are expired or expiring within 30 days, please visit https://go.usa.gov/ xw5H4. Don’t wait if your CAC/ID card is expired or expiring. Slots are filling fast! *Members will retain their benefits and be able to extend their certificates until 30 Sept., but will need to sign on to base through the Visitor Center after June 30 if their CAC/ID has expired.

Ramstein Aquatics Center Update The filtration system on Ramstein’s lap pool failed in May and is currently being contracted for repair. Officials anticipate opening the lap pool in August with the recreation pool opening in the fall.

Once repairs are completed the opening date will be advertised along with COVID-19 guidelines.

The Ramstein Aquatic Center will be issuing full refunds for swim lessons, lane reservations, and lifeguarding courses cancelled due to the COVID-19 closure. Monthly swim passes expiring after the

JUNE 8 3:40 p.m.: Damage to personal property in Landstuhl

closure date will be refunded at prorated rate. Annual swim passes will be extended for the length of time the facility was closed due to COVID-19. Those with annual passes PCS-ing before their extended expiration date can email a refund request to the Ramstein Aquatic Center org box: 86FSS.FSCS. AquaticCenter@us.af.mil.

JUNE 9 9:50 a.m.: Theft from a vehicle in Bruchmuehlbach-Miesau 4:09 p.m.: Driving under the influence in Ramstein-Miesenbach 6:14 p.m.: Shoplifting in Altenglan Edeka 9:50 p.m.: Driving under the influence in Kaiserslautern

KMC food drive Drop boxes will be set up at the Ramstein and Vogelweh Commissaries from June 1 - 30 for donations of canned food goods and other non-perishable items.

JUNE 10 Nothing significant to report

Ramstein Pharmacy Tent Ramstein’s pharmacy is closing the lobby to patient access and dispensing medications through the exterior pharmacy lobby windows (Walk-up pharmacy). This enables our patients to maintain proper physical distancing. Medication refills can be processed through TRICARE Online or through the automated refill line (06371-865601) will be ready for pick up the next duty day after 1 p.m. Pharmacy hours of operation are MonFri 7:30 a.m.-5 p.m., Sat 8-12 a.m.

JUNE 11 Nothing significant to report

»» Celebrate Freedom, Red, White and You! Enjoy

Initial housing briefing Incoming TLA reimbursement process Discuss family housing wait list Discuss housing policies

Upon reporting to the KMC, the housing briefing must be completed within 48 hours.

The Housing Office is located on Vogelweh, Bldg 1001.

For Housing questions/concerns, please email KMCHousing@us.af.mil or call;

Photo courtesy of the Housing Office

KMC Housing In-processing Checklist: Contact the Housing Assistance Section for

4:06 p.m.: Theft of government and private property in Kaiserslautern JUNE 13 12:33 a.m.: Driving while impaired in Landstuhl 12:47 a.m.: Damage to personal property in Florida Loop, Vogelweh Family Housing 9:26 a.m.: Leaving the scene of an accident in Kottweiler-Schwanden 9:19 p.m.: Larceny of government property in Vogelweh Family Housing JUNE 14 Nothing significant to report

Photo by Andrey_Popov/Shutterstock.com

Sponsors: Housing Office In-Processing Update

Assistance Section: DSN: 314-489-6672 0631-536-6672 Facilities Section On-Base: DSN: 314-489-7108 0631-536-7108 Furnishing Management Section: DSN: 314-489-6001 0631-536-6001 Housing Referral Office Off-Base: DSN: 314-489-6643/6659 06271-47-6643/6659 Unaccompanied Housing DORMS: DSN: 314-480-3676 (480-Dorm) 06371-47-3676

JUNE 12

COMMUNITY EVENTS

Attention all retirees and surviving spouses The 86th AW Retiree Activities Office is closed until further notice. For urgent situations (until we re-open our doors) that would normally be addressed to the RAO, you can email jim.barrante@ fcgh.net.

• • • •

Photo by Schmidt_Alex / Shutterstock.com

Editor’s note: The purpose of the weekly blotter is to deliver a chronological listing of criminal activity in the KMC. The information contained in the blotter is not indicative of crime trends or the targeting of service members or their dependents. The location and nature of the entries is dependent upon where the crime was reported and not necessarily where the crime took place.

THE HOUSING HYPE If you’re sponsoring a new arrival assigned to the Kaiserslautern Military Community (KMC), there is a requirement to have housing eligible(s) in-process with the KMC Housing Office. However, because of the current situation associated with the COVID-19 virus, the Housing Office is offering a virtual briefing service.

Active-duty accompanied service members are eligible to apply for onbase family housing upon reporting. After receipt and verification of all associated documents (contact Housing Office for details), the service member’s eligibility date will be based on the date that the individual signed out of the losing installation and a housing offer will be made when housing becomes available.

As always, the KMC Housing Office works to ensure a smooth and nonstressful approach to the in-processing experience during personnel moves. So, here is a short list of the required steps/ documents to receive assistance from the KMC Housing Office.

June 19, 2020

the Fourth of July a bit differently this year with this jam-packed schedule of fun! From July 1-5 there will be virtual events such as baking contests, scavenger hunts, a talent show, photo caption contests and sidewalk chalk art on Facebook. Outdoor Recreation will be hosting events such as ATV/UTV tours, canoeing, bike tours, fishing opportunities, skydiving, a free drive-in movie, even trips around Germany!

Be sure to join us for a new way to celebrate freedom this year! For more information, head to our calendars on Kaiserslautern.armymwr. com or Baumholder.armymwr.com. »» Summer Bazaar: Have you missed travelling around Europe? Do not worry; we are bringing Europe to you! Shop the Summer Bazaar at the Kleber Fitness Center from July 10-12 with AAFES food trucks onsite! With health and safety mitigation in place! All prices in U.S. dollars, with Euros, debit and credit cards accepted. U.S. I.D. cardholders only, strollers welcome. Hours of shopping July 10 & 11 (Fri & Sat), 10 a.m.-7 p.m. & July 12 (Sun), 10 a.m.-5 p.m. For more information, contact 541-9105/9106, 0611143-541-9105/9106 or head to Kaiserslautern. armymwr.com or Baumholder.armymwr.com. »» Warrior Zones are Back: The USAG RP Warrior Zones are back and operating under their original hours of operation, (Sembach Kaserne, Bldg. 220: Mon-Fri, 8 a.m.-8 p.m., Sat-Sun, noon-8 p.m. and Smith Barracks, Bldg. 8218: Tue- Thu, 11 a.m.-7 p.m., Fri & Sat, 2-10 p.m., closed Sun & Mon). Open to everyone 18 and over, enjoy a modern and relaxing atmosphere with a bar, video games, movie viewing options, card games, events and more. For more information contact Sembach Kaserne Warrior Zone at 541-9110, 0611-143-541-9110 or Smith Bks. Warrior Zone at 531-2913/2912,

0611-143-531-2913/2912. »» 1000-KM Biking Club: Outdoor Recreation

invites community members to keep track of the kilometers logged while biking the trails and roads of Europe as part of the 2020 Installation Management Command-Europe 1,000-Kilometer Biking Club Program. The program runs from May 1 to Dec. 31, 2020.

Biked kilometers can be logged on any bicycle trail or road and is open to all U.S. ID cardholder cyclists on all bikes, (home trainers and static bicycles DO NOT count). Participants ages 18 and older will be eligible to receive a jersey after completing the 1,000 kilometers. All kilometers must be recorded weekly and submitted to Outdoor Recreation for tracking purposes.

For more information and to sign up, contact either Baumholder Outdoor Recreation, Smith Barracks, Bldg. 8167, 531-3401, 0611-1435313401 or Kaiserslautern Outdoor Recreation, Pulaski Barracks, Bldg. 2905, 493-4117, 06313406-4117. »» 2020 Command Golf Challenge: Win a free 18hole round of golf at Rolling Hills Golf Course!

When you play a round of 18 holes, June 1-30, and your score is better than the score to beat set by the winner of the Edwards/Waterhouse match, your next 18 holes are free! (Prize round is to be played between June 1-July 31) Must be a U.S. player 18 or older. For more information, contact Rolling Hills Golf Course, Wetzel Kaserne, Bldg. 8888, 485-7299, 0678-36-7299. »» Wednesday Night Scramble: Every Wednesday night grab your partner and head to Rolling Hills Golf Course for Wednesday Night Scramble at 5:30 p.m. with a shotgun start at 6 p.m.

Sign up in the Rolling Hills Pro Shop. For more information, contact Rolling Hills Golf Course, Wetzel Kaserne, Bldg. 8888, 485-7299, 067836-7299.

Kaiserslautern American

June 19, 2020

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Senate confirms Brown to be 22nd Air Force chief of staff in unanimous vote

by Charles Pope Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs The U.S. Senate confirmed Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., June 9, to be the 22nd Air Force chief of staff, clearing the way for the decorated pilot and experienced commander to become the first African American in history to lead a branch of the U.S. military as its highest-ranking officer.

The vote was 98-0.

In advance of the vote on his confirmation, Brown testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee during a hearing May 7. During the hearing, Brown pledged to ensure Air Force readiness to support the National Defense Strategy, if confirmed. “I am committed to the Air Force achieving irreversible momentum towards implementation of the National Defense Strategy and an integrated and more lethal joint force,” Brown said.

Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett congratulated Brown on his confirmation and highlighted the important role he will play leading the Air Force into the future and carrying on the strategic vision of the

current Air Force chief of staff, Gen. David L. Goldfein.

“I join leaders, Airmen and Space Professionals from across the forces in congratulating Gen. Brown and his wife Sharene,” Barrett said. “Leaders of their caliber will perpetuate the legacy of excellence that Gen. Goldfein and Dawn Goldfein have epitomized over the last four years. Gen. Brown’s unrivaled leadership, operational experience and global perspective will prove crucial as we continue modernizing the Air Force to meet tomorrow’s national security challenges and protect our nation.”

Goldfein also congratulated Brown and cited his unparalleled qualifications to be the next Air Force chief of staff.

“There is no one I know who is better prepared to be chief of staff, no one who has the experience and the temperament to lead the Air Force,” Goldfein said. “The Air Force and our nation will be in good hands under his leadership.”

Chief of Space Operations and fellow service chief, Gen. Jay Raymond also congratulated Brown on his confirmation.

“Gen. Brown is an innovative leader who clearly understands the complex and evolving strategic environment we face today as a Department,” Raymond said. “He clearly understands the importance of leading across all domains to compete, deter and win — especially in war-fighting domains like space.

I am thrilled with Gen. Brown’s confirmation. I couldn’t ask for a better teammate.”

Brown was commissioned in 1984 as a distinguished graduate of the ROTC program at Texas Tech University. He is a command pilot with more than 2,900 flying hours, including 130 combat hours.

Brown currently serves as the U.S. Pacific Air Forces commander and the air component commander of U.S. Indo-Pacific Command at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii. U.S. Pacific Air Forces is responsible for Air Force activities spread over half the globe in a command that supports more than 46,000 Airmen serving principally in Japan, South Korea, Hawaii, Alaska and Guam.

Brown will replace Goldfein Aug. 6 at a swearing-in ceremony.

The U.S. Senate confirmed Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., June 9, to be the 22nd Air Force chief of staff, clearing the way for the decorated pilot and experienced commander to become the first African American in history to lead a branch of the U.S. military as its highest-ranking officer.

Courtesy photo

Kaiserslautern American

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Deutschland: Journey through time, forgotten pandemics Story and graphic by Tech. Sgt. J. Smith 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs With the current COVID-19 pandemic commanding global attention,, now is a perfect time to reflect on how pandemics have touched and shaped Europe.

According to Merriam-Webster, an epidemic is defined as “an outbreak of disease that spreads quickly and affects many individuals at the same time.” A pandemic is defined “as an outbreak of a disease that occurs over a wide geographic area and affects an exceptionally high proportion of the population.”

According to www.history.com, the Antonine Plague existed for 15 years from 165 to 180 A.D. and is known as the Plague of Galen. This pandemic was transmitted throughout the Roman Empire by soldiers returning from conflict with the Huns, who lived in Eastern Europe.

Some believe this plague was one of the first appearances of smallpox.

Deaths were estimated at five million.

Among them were Roman emperors Lucius Verus and Marcus Aurelius Antoninus. Symptoms included fever, sore throat, diarrhea and pus-filled sores.

The Plague of Cyprian affected the Roman Empire from 249 to 262 A.D. and was named after its first known victim, Thaschus Cæcilius Cyprianus, Christian bishop of Carthage. According to www.history. com, he wrote about the effects of the plague. The plague is thought to have caused widespread manpower shortages for food production and the Roman army. Some believe this plague was due to smallpox, influenza or viral hemorrhagic fever.

Symptoms included diarrhea, vomiting, throat ulcers, fever and gangrenous hands and feet.

The first iteration of the bubonic plague appeared during the reign of Emperor Justinian I in 541 A.D., and became known as Justinian’s Plague. According to www.ancient. eu, transmission began with rats and fleas which eventually affected half of Europe’s population. This disease weakened the empire economically, politically and agriculturally. Symptoms included fever, headache, chills, swollen or tender lymph nodes, abdominal pain and gangrene.

Throughout the 11th and 13th centuries in Europe, leprosy became prominent. Encyclopedia Britannica states “leprosy came to be referred to as the ‘living death,’ and often its victims were treated as if they had already died. Funeral services

were conducted to declare those living with the disease ’dead’ to society, and relatives were allowed to claim their inheritance.” The disease was highly infectious. According to the Center for Disease Control, during this epoch the way leprosy was described is not the same as the leprosy we know today. Symptoms included rashes, dry or patchy skin, and swelling.

A second appearance of the bubonic plague, known as the Black Death, affected Europe from 1347 to 1351. This sickness spread to farm animals in addition to humans. It triggered chain reactions throughout Europe from wool to food shortages, and some individuals resorted to violence. According to www.history. com, sanitation, public-health practices and antibiotics are now a more efficient way to treat the Black Death, which is still present with approximately 1,000 to 3,000 cases per year.

After Christopher Columbus set sail in 1492, the Columbian Interchange resulted in European colonization that greatly impacted the indigenous people of the Americas. The interchange references the exchange of plants, animals, technology, and diseases.

According to www.history.com, the various diseases were: smallpox, chickenpox, cholera, diphtheria, influenza, mumps, measles, rubella, pertussis, yellow and scarlet fever, tuberculosis, typhoid fever, typhus, yaws, malaria, sickle-cell, gonorrhea, syphilis, bubonic plague and Chagas disease. In 1520 the Aztec Empire was destroyed by smallpox, which resulted in food shortages and the inability to resist Spanish colonizers.

The first of seven cholera pandemics began in 1817. Thereafter six more occurred, spanning 150 years.

Cholera was spread through fecesinfected water and food. According to www.focusmedica.com, symptoms included diarrhea, fatigue, weakness, nausea, vomiting, dehydration, electrolyte imbalance, low blood pressure, loose skin, dry mouth, rapid heartbeat and weight loss. According to www.thoughtco.com, cholera appeared in India first and by 1830 it had reached Germany. In 1885, a vaccine was created.

In 1885, the third, and last uprising of the bubonic plague affected European society.

The Russian Flu was the first significant flu pandemic which began in Europe in 1889 and resulted in approximately 1 million deaths worldwide. According to www.history.com, when scientists traced the path of infection, it was found to have

followed major roads, rivers and railway lines.

The Spanish Flu of 1918 started in Europe and resulted in 50 million deaths. This flu was avian-borne and affected roughly 500 million people.

According to www.cdc.gov, the pandemic was highly transmitted during World War I troop movement.

Between 1968-1970, the Hong Kong flu pandemic claimed the lives of approximately 1 million individuals worldwide. This pandemic was highly infectious and continuously mutated, which rendered vaccines ineffective. By September 1968, the flu reached Europe. According to www.wsj.com, the death toll was so high in Berlin that corpses were stored in subway tunnels. In former West Germany, garbage collectors buried the dead due to a low number of available undertakers. In total Germany registered approximately 60,000 deaths.

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome, SARS, materialized in 2003 with 8,098 reported cases and 774 deaths. It is a viral respiratory illness caused by a coronavirus, called SARS-associated coronavirus.

The illness spread to more than two dozen countries, including Germany.

According to the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control, SARS began with a fever greater than 100.4 degrees Fahrenheit and other symptoms included headache, body aches, mild respiratory symptoms at the outset, diarrhea, and dry cough.

SARS spread by close person-toperson contact through respiratory droplets, or when an individual touched a contaminated surface or object.

Swine influenza is a respiratory disease in pigs, which spread to humans. The CDC estimates between 151,700-575,400 people died during the 2009 Swine influenza pandemic.

At least 125,550 cases were reported in Europe. Unusually, approximately 80 percent of those were believed to have been individuals below the age of 65. Seasonal influenza epidemics, traditionally result with 70-90 percent of the deaths occurring in individuals over 65 years of age.

The World Health Organization classified the coronavirus outbreak as a pandemic on March 11. In Germany, the first case was recorded in the state of Bavaria on Jan. 27. The main symptoms are fever, cough, and shortness of breath. For the most up to date information for RheinlandPfalz, visit the COVID-19 page on www.ramstein.af.mil.

June 19, 2020

June 19, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

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June 19, 2020

Illuminating history: F-4 Phantom II restoration

U.S. Airmen from the 86th Maintenance Squadron and local nationals from the 435th Construction and Training Squadron disconnect the load block of a crane and emplace an RF-4C Phantom II aircraft for static display at the traffic circle near the Northside Fitness Center at Ramstein Air Base, June 8. Movement and emplacement of the aircraft was a two-day joint effort between the 86th Maintenance Group, 86th Civil Engineer Group and 435th CTS.

Story by Airman 1st Class Jennifer Gonzales Photos by Airman 1st Class John R. Wright 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs The 86th Maintenance Group, 86th Civil Engineer Group and 435th Construction and Training Squadron recently completed the restoration and installation of an RF-4C Phantom II aircraft.

The RF-4C was towed to its final destination — the roundabout near the Northside Fitness Center — on June 4. The installation was completed on June 8.

Although this aircraft is now a static model, it played a vital role in Ramstein’s history. Tail number 68-0554 spent its operational life supporting units assigned to United States Air Forces in Europe. This jet provided NATO with a reliable Cold War workhorse and a stable tactical reconnaissance platform.

The F-4 provided ground training for the Construction and Training Squadron and it flew sorties and missions when the 86th Airlift Wing was a tactical wing.

This specific model of the RF-4C carried a variety of cameras in three different stations in the nose sec-

tion that were capable of forward, oblique and mapping photography.

These cameras could take photographs from high or low altitudes, during the day or at night with flash cartridges.

The RF-4C didn’t carry offensive armament, although during the last few years of its service, some were fitted with four AIM-9 Sidewinder missiles for defense, according to Dr. John Treiber, 86th AW historian.

“This aircraft hit Mach 2.2 and was able to give the Department of Defense a leg up in the early 1960s until the F-15 and F-16 rolled out of production in the mid to late

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1970s,” said Master Sgt. Zachary H. Sidlovsky, 86th Maintenance Squadron assistant fabrication flight chief.

Crews of the 26th Tactical Reconnaissance Wing based at Zweibrücken Air Base, Germany, deployed the aircraft to southwest Asia in 1991 where it flew a number of combat missions during Operation Desert Storm.

The end of the Cold War resulted in a number of base closures in Europe, among them Zweibrücken Air Base, and the deactivation of the 26th TRW. The aircraft was retired in late 1991.

“It was last flown at Zweibrücken Air Base as a NATO asset until October 1991 before coming to Ramstein Air Base, after which it became a trainer here,” Sidlovsky said.

The task of restoring the aircraft was a joint effort between the

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U.S. Airmen from the 86th Maintenance Squadron and local nationals from the 435th Construction and Training Squadron lift and steady an RF-4C Phantom II aircraft over a gate at Ramstein Air Base, June 4. In order to move the RF-4C to its final static display location, roads had to be temporarily shut down, traffic signs were removed, and a crane had to lift the aircraft over several barriers.

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A plaque commemorating the 86th Maintenance Group team involved in the restoration of an RF-4C Phantom II is fixed to the aircraft at Ramstein Air Base, June 4. The 86th MXG, along with the 86th Civil Engineer Group, preserved the U.S. Air Force heritage aircraft through the efforts of demilitarizing, fabricating aircraft panels and giving the RF-4C a paint overhaul.

Kaiserslautern American

June 19, 2020

U.S. Airmen from the 86th Maintenance Squadron and local nationals from the 435th Construction and Training Squadron tow an RF-4C Phantom II aircraft to be put on static display at Ramstein Air Base, June 4. The 86th MXS fabrication flight spent two years restoring the aircraft.

86th MXG and the 86th CEG, which took half a decade to complete.

Numerous challenges were met and overcome by everyone involved with the project.

“First and foremost, none of this would have ever been done without Mr. Andreas May of (the 86th Civil

Engineer Squadron),” Sidlovsky said. “He found and gave life to this beautiful product you see today.

Along with the aircraft maintenance expert of Senior Master Sgt. Joseph Slaughter, who took this project on and started the paperwork that entails with making a static aircraft.”

“From start to finish would be five years,” Sidlovsky said. “But most of the real hands-on work took two years — the summer of 2018 until this summer. The biggest obstacle, which took the longest time, was getting the F-4 moved from the other side of base to the maintenance group facilities, along with sourcing and reaching out to the local German air force bases who had the appropriate engine trailers we could utilize to remove

(the engines) from the aircraft.”

A light at the end of the tunnel was found in an experienced local national with an in-depth knowledge of the aircraft.

“Mr. Tino Weichel, 86th MXS mechanic, worked on the German F-4s during his military career and had connections to outside units in order to save the aircraft, and assist with towing requirements and removal of the engines,” Sidlovsky said.

Reading up on the history of these aircraft can be informative.

However, seeing it with one’s own eyes can be a different experience.

The RF-4C Phantom II is a part of Ramstein’s history. Along with everyone who worked to restore it, the plane offers reminders of what makes this the World’s Best Wing.

Page 9

U.S. Airmen from the 86th Maintenance Squadron hold an RF-4C Phantom II aircraft steady as it is lifted over a fence at Ramstein Air Base, June 4. The RF-4C was transported to the traffic circle near the Northside Fitness Center, where it was emplaced and secured for display.

An RF-4C Phantom II aircraft sits near the flight line at Ramstein Air Base, June 4. The RF-4C was a tactical reconnaissance aircraft used by the U.S. Air Force from the Cold War to the Vietnam War and up until Operation Desert Storm.

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Page 10

June 19, 2020

NATO Allies continue to sustain readiness

Tobruq Arrows participants stand in a closing ceremony in Jurmalciems, Latvia, on June 10.

Story and photos by Sgt. Dommnique Washington 7th Mobile Public Affairs Detachment JURMALCIEMS, Latvia — U.S. Soldiers assigned to 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, 10th Army Air and Missile Defense Command, participated in a joint multinational training exercise with NATO allies Latvia and Lithuania from June 7-10, in Jurmalciems, Latvia.

The exercise, Tobruq Arrows, is the combined live fire itera-

Tall.

tion of Tobruq Legacy 20, which is scheduled to take place in September. This is also the first air defense live fire hosted in Latvia as part of the Tobruq Legacy series.

“This all leads to a higher level of readiness for the alliance,” said Brig. Gen. Greg Brady, Commanding General of 10th AAMDC. “With maintaining that readiness, we can maintain our overmatch but just as importantly, we can improve all of our capabilities together.”

For Soldiers to participate in Tobruq Arrows, in-depth planning and preparation was required. The risks associated with COVID-19 were taken into consideration throughout the planning process.

“Usually for an exercise like this, our Soldiers would train for about a month”, said 1st Sgt. Bryan Norris, first sergeant of C Battery, 5-4 ADAR. “With the presence of ‘COVID’ we’ve had to change things up and put additional measures in place.”

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In addition to training variations, all Soldiers were required to conduct a 14-day restriction of movement and COVID-19 testing prior to traveling to Latvia.

Additional precautions were taken during the travel and participation of the exercise.

“We had a couple of extra buses secured to make sure we were able to do more physical distancing en route to the site,” said Maj. Matthew Westhoff, command surgeon of 10th AAMDC. “As we’re here, we continue to

use face masks when the mission requires having to work closely as well as continuing to practice good hygiene.”

During the exercise Latvian, Lithuanian and U.S. troops participated in a diverse range of training scenarios, which allowed them to routinely fire their service — specific air defending artillery.

The battalion displayed the capabilities of their Avenger system, along with its 50-caliber machine gun and FIM-92 Stinger Man Portable Air Defense

Venti.

Kaiserslautern American

June 19, 2020 System. These weapon systems are designed to engage aerial targets and are some of the U.S. Army’s best short-range air defense assets.

Communication is another essential part of any joint defensive movement. Latvian and U.S. Soldiers practiced integrating signal and communication assets. This enabled the NATO teams in Latvia and Germany to track everything that happened during the exercise.

“Our equipment, along with the Latvian radar, is providing an air picture of this range back to our command team,” said Chief Warrant Officer 3 Jarrad Chamberlin, C-2 systems integrator for 5-4 ADAR. “From there, we’re sending that air picture via satellite back to Germany. This has never been done before.”

With the successful completion of this exercise, the NATO Allies proudly displayed their ability to perform despite COVID19 or any other obstacle that may present itself.

“With the discipline of this battalion, we were able to mitigate the risk of COVID-19 and maintain a high level of readiness,” Brady said. “Maintaining air missile and defense readiness is critical.”

The Avenger air defense system was one of the short-range air defense assets used during the Tobruq Arrows live fire exercise on June 10 in Jurmalciems, Latvia.

Page 11

The ceremony officially put a close to the four day training for NATO allies Latvia, Lithuania and the U.S. in Jurmalciems, Latvia on June 10.

Soldiers assigned to 5th Battalion, 4th Air Defense Artillery Regiment, fire the FIM-92 Stinger Man Portable Air Defense System June 10 in Jurmalciems, Latvia for Tobruq Arrows. Tobruq Arrows is a joint multinational training exercise with NATO allies Latvia and Lithuania.

Kaiserslautern American

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June 19, 2020

86 MDSS Airman establishes COVID-19 testing capabilities Story and photos by Airman 1st Class John R. Wright 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Collect sample. Prepare sample. Analyze sample.

Back-to-back patients wait outside the clinic door, sitting in strategically arranged chairs that ensure proper physical distancing.

“Next.”

Collect sample. Prepare sample. Analyze sample. Repeat.

This is what a typical day at the medical laboratory looks like for Staff Sgt. Randal L. Marks, 86th Medical Support Squadron chemistry and shipping noncommissioned officer in charge.

It can be easy to get caught up in the day-to-day schedule and not fully see how one’s work impacts the bigger picture.

For Marks, however, routine changed when he answered the call to be the first medical laboratory technician to establish COVID-19 testing capabilities in West Africa for the Department of Defense.

“When the tasking came down, he was the first person who came to mind,” said Senior Master Sgt. Katherine Orozco, 86th MDSS diagnostic and therapeutic flight chief, who supervises the lab in which Marks works. “When you’re in a

medical facility you see patients day in and day out, but in the deployed setting I knew he would thrive. He could see how a medical lab tech touches so many different operations, and he could connect that to what he does day to day.”

Marks’ work while deployed gave him the opportunity to gain a more holistic perspective on the importance of his job: It also earned him the Airlifter of the Week award at Ramstein Air Base, June 4.

“I didn’t see it coming at all,” Marks said. “It feels good to be recognized because this is my first award.”

Testing for COVID-19 has been at the forefront of the medical field’s priorities for the past few months, and training medical personnel on this capability has been a critical step in disease response.

Marks drafted the validation plan and operating instruction for a diagnostics system used to test for COVID-19 and trained 13 personnel from various medical specialties on its use.

“His presence and technical expertise ensured the advanced operating base and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance mission continued by enabling rapid diagnostic testing for (various military units),” Orozco said.

When Marks, a Brookshire,

Texas, native, isn’t working, his hobbies include Special Forces fitness, reading leadership books and spending time with his wife, Senior Airman Madison Marks, and their Great Dane, Hank.

“I’m actually training for an Ironman (Triathlon),” Marks said.

Known to be someone who is great with people and has a natural ability to lead, Marks is always pushing himself and constantly improving, Orozco said.

Going above and beyond the status quo is what makes Airmen like Marks — Airmen who constantly strive to be better — valued and esteemed members of the World’s Best Wing.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Randal L. Marks, 86th Medical Support Squadron chemistry and shipping noncommissioned officer in charge, prepares to take blood from Master Sgt. Marco Avecilla, 86th Airlift Wing Ramstein chapel superintendent, in the medical laboratory at Ramstein Air Base, June 8. Marks was awarded Airlifter of the Week for being the first medical laboratory technician to establish COVID-19 testing capabilities in West Africa for the Department of Defense.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Randal L. Marks, 86th Medical Support Squadron chemistry and shipping noncommissioned officer in charge, prepares a blood sample to examine under a microscope at Ramstein Air Base, June 8. Marks was specifically looking for rouleaux in the blood sample, which is when red blood cells are stacked on top of each other.

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Randal L. Marks, 86th Medical Support Squadron chemistry and shipping noncommissioned officer in charge, loads a blood sample into a blood count machine at Ramstein Air Base, June 8. The machine analyzes red and white blood cell counts, hemoglobin, and differentiates between types of white blood cells.

Customs’ guidelines for home-based business in Germany

by Fred Evans Deputy Director, Customs Family members stationed in Germany with their military or DOD civilian spouses might want to carry on the very American tradition of starting a homebased business in their government quarters, especially nowadays with the COVID-19 pandemic. In this case even the very best of intentions may cause them to run afoul of host law and Army in Europe Regulations.

A home-based business can be many things – selling face masks, haircut services, selling aroma candles, kitchen containers, or skin care products. Maybe photography or child care is what you like best.

Whatever your preference is, you have to follow German and military policies for your homebased business.

It is imperative that before starting your business, even if it is web-based, you contact your installation commercial affairs officer. He or she will tell you about local policies and help

you gain permission from the base or garrison commander for the business. Without proper permission, you could lose your Individual Logistical Support privileges and be faced with an adverse police report in your records!

Running a business out of quarters for which a Living Quarter’s Allowance is received is potentially problematic and can result in loss of LQA eligibility. Civilian employees should consult their servicing CPAC prior to engaging in any form of homebased business from a quarters for which LQA is received.

On the German side, you will first need to register your small business and then find out whether or not it will be subject to taxation by German authorities. It is highly recommended that you discuss that question with a legal professional. On top of that, you may need an entry in the register of companies and other licenses.

From a customs perspective, the first point to note is that U.S. Forces plated vehicles are for

your personal use only. Using one as part of a business is illegal.

Examples of abuse would be if you used your U.S. Army Europeplated van to deliver goods to customers, transport children as a child care provider or import pottery from Poland for resale.

Registering your business vehicle in the German system to be legal is advised.

The second point is that mail that you send or receive as part of your business must go through a commercial shipping company or the German postal service. The APO system is an entitlement for your personal use and using it to send or receive business wares and letters is not allowed.

Third, you must declare any goods intended for resale to German Customs when you bring them into the country. If you buy commercial items in other countries, you must stop at the border and tell German customs your goods are for resale. You are not allowed to use AE Form 550-175A, Import/ Export Certificate & Purchase

Permit, to avoid paying duty.

Goods sold in the commissary, post or base exchange, and the AAFES catalog are generally tax-free so you cannot buy anything there for your business either. Examples could be a computer for running the business or baking supplies for a cake enterprise. Not surprisingly, using VAT forms to support your business is off-limits too.

People who don’t follow the rules risk receiving a hefty fine and tax demand from German authorities, and military administrative or civilian misconduct action as well, where applicable.

Here are the main points again: • Do not use tax-free gasoline or a U.S. Army Europe plated POV for business activities.

• Do not use the military postal service to send or receive any business-related materials or mail.

• Do not use customs entitlements to import or export merchandise, advertising materials or other businessrelated materials.

• Do not use any item bought

• •

• •

in the PX or commissary for your business.

Do not use VAT forms for any item intended for commercial purposes.

Do not use Family and Morale, Welfare and Recreation facilities, such as photo or craft shops, to support your business.

Do not store merchandise in your government quarters or use them as a showroom.

Almost all business-related income must be reported to both German and American tax authorities.

So are you running a business?

Do you need a German tax number or even a U.S. tax ID? “To answer these and other questions, talk to your installation commercial affairs officer to be sure where you stand,” Customs Director Tim Sellman concluded. You can also download the pertinent directive, Army in Europe Regulation 210-70 (On-Post Commercial Solicitation), to get further information.

June 19, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

Page 13

Kaiserslautern American

Page 14

June 19, 2020

AFRS releases Aim High mobile app

by Master Sgt. Chance Babin Air Force Recruiting Service Public Affairs To help better communicate, inform and inspire new recruits and with embedded tools to guide them into the right totalforce career path, the Air Force Recruiting Service’s Innovation team launched the “Aim High” mobile phone application June 15.

With recruiters no longer meeting potential recruits or applicants in person due to the COVID-19 outbreak that has crippled much of the nation’s industries, AFRS expedited the release of the app to help recruiters to communicate better with recruits throughout the process of joining the service on active duty or going to the Air National Guard or Air Force Reserve.

“The Aim High app has been in the works since 2018 and was originally set to be released this summer,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jason O’Donley, AFRS Innovation superintendent. “But with the current COVID-19 situation, we have been working tirelessly to get it released sooner to help our recruiters accomplish their mission. The app is full of information about the Air Force and many of the features will help recruiters and applicants communicate, allowing people to make an informed decision based on the information all in one location.”

The Aim High app is a comprehensive, intuitive recruiting tool powered by a data-rich enterprise solution that helps the Air Force find elite Airmen, as well as guide recruits to discover their passions through intuitive, interactive means. The app also provides family and friends a way to have insight into a recruit’s training and keeps Airmen involved in recruiting well after being assigned to their first duty stations.

“What we have developed is a

one-stop shop for all things Air Force,” O’Donley said. “Currently there is a lot of information about the Air Force, careers, delayed enlistment, etc., but the information is in different locations, which has meant recruits have to visit multiple resources to get informed.

With the app, information is pulled for them from a variety of sources, and the recruits are connected with the information in one location so they don’t have to go looking for it, which can be frustrating.”

For recruiters, the app includes tools such as messaging that allows them to stay in touch with recruits throughout the process.

“Having informed customers usually leads to more satisfied customers,” O’Donley said. “Focusing on our potential recruits and the informed decision of what career they want in the Air Force, the messaging feature provides a more robust capability as opposed to just using text.”

Using Google Analytics, recruiters can monitor the number of active users, the pages they visited, as well as how long they viewed each page. Additionally, mobile traffic and specific page performance information can be obtained. This will help determine any efforts requiring enhancement and/or modification to the app’s features.

A major feature of the app that all Airmen can utilize is the ability to capture leads and refer them to AFRS, enabling the We Are All Recruiters program to be managed better.

“One of the main tenets of the Aim High app is to enable all Airmen to capture leads and be able to pass them directly to AFRS,” O’Donley said. “By broadening recruiting, the Air Force will increase the pool of qualified recruits and, in turn, increase the appropriate career-toAirman matches.”

In its current state, the Aim High

The Aim High app is a comprehensive, intuitive recruiting tool powered by a data-rich enterprise solution that helps the Air Force find elite Airmen, as well as guide recruits to discover their passions through intuitive, interactive means.

Courtesy graphic

app can send normal and “A-list” referrals, which is a lead captured within the app that is given priority and bypasses normal recruit filtering. Instead, the referral goes straight to a recruiter, ensuring quality leads are handled in a timely and expedient fashion, O’Donley said.

The app can also be used by recruits’ family and friends of those as they attend Basic Military Training, giving them a sneak peek into the training environment of their loved one.

“Through the app, recruits can invite family and friends to experience basic military training through photos throughout the entire process,” O’Donley said. “This feature does two things: increases the number of people using the Aim High

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app and shows a snapshot of what the initial steps into the Air Force are really like for their Airman.”

As AFRS continues to evolve into a total-force enterprise, it is important that all events throughout the total force are available to be seen by everyone.

“The Aim High app currently integrates active duty and Reserve events into one location,” O’Donley said. “The integration of the Air National Guard events is in progress. The events feature is the first step of total-force integration in the app. The Aim High app is taking disparate, component-centric data sources (normally viewed separately) and integrating them into a comprehensive, user-friendly experience.”

Additionally, capturing direct

user feedback allows users to report issues within the framework of the app. Utilization of this feedback will enable management to prioritize requests and provide features quickly.

“One cool feature with the app is any user can send feedback and it goes straight into a log we keep with developers,” O’Donley said.

“We review all the feedback from our users, whether it’s a glitch or an issue that might have outdated information or if they want a feature added. With this information we will consider future capabilities of the app. We want to know what users want.”

The Aim High app can be downloaded on Android or iOS. Type in “Aim High” in the app store to find and download.

Kaiserslautern American

June 19, 2020

Page 15

Baumholder Family Housing already into delayed summer housing surge

by Keith Pannell U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz The summer permanent change of station moving season would normally be surging by mid-June. But the COVID-19 pandemic and the Secretary of Defense Stop Movement order have turned that surge into a gentle wave for the moment.

Only those with an Exception to Policy, those getting out of the Army or those moving to a different installation within Germany are leaving Baumholder now. But that won’t last long, said Harald Kastner, U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz Housing chief.

“We have sent emails to our residents who have been delayed to schedule their pre-checks, so we can be prepared and know what work needs to be scheduled when their home is vacated,” Kastner said.

The Stop Movement has effectively created an overlap of families leaving and families coming in. The Baumholder Housing Office and Directorate of Public Works crews must have time to check a vacated house and make any needed repairs before a home can be offered to an incoming family.

The Baumholder Military Community has nearly 900 housing units. During the summer PCS surge, hundreds of units will be vacated, cleaned and offered to incoming families. Each resident PCSing out is responsible for having their house swept and cleaned, and for informing the housing office of any repairs needed above normal wear and tear.

“Last summer, our on-post housing section processed 450 moves between April and September,” said Charm Sutton, Baumholder Housing Service chief. “This summer with the condensed PCS season, we are expecting the same number of families in half the time.”

The overlap may cause an issue with families having more than one home to choose from.

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and housing at an installation in Germany. They communicate with families and highly encourage them to visit social media and Army Housing web sites and to talk to their sponsors so they’re not caught by surprise when they’re shown Baumholder housing units.

Many of the younger families are in their first or second PCS. So, a little patience and understanding can go a long way, according to Sutton.

“We always prepare for peak transition season by managing our inventory to the best of our abilities and working closely with DPW,” Sutton said. “But we also stock up on patience and compassion. Housing is very personal to people and our team strives to empathize with every family that comes our way.”

Housing on Smith Barracks, part of the Baumholder Military Community, ranges from four-story, apartment style housing of two, three and four bedrooms to townhouse style.

Photo by Jason Tudor

But Baumholder leaders say all sponsors or inbound Soldiers and families will have at least two homes to look at as long as there is availability.

“We know from experience and from reviewing the current inbound flow of Soldiers and families that our housing office will not have the ability to offer multiple homes to families in the late summer simply based upon availability,” said Jim Bradford, Baumholder garrison deputy manager. “This historically

occurs in the three- and fourbedroom categories. In our twobedroom category, we should be able to offer at least two homes for decision, but these homes may not have much difference in comparison.”

Housing officials understand moving is a stressful time, especially for the junior noncommissioned officers and Soldiers who make up the bulk of housing residents. They try to stave off the inevitable surprise when families making their first move

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to Germany see the difference between the privatized housing at an installation in the U.S.

For a photo tour or to see floor plans, go to: https://home.army. mil/rheinland-pfalz/index.php/ about/directorates-supportoffices/directorate-public-worksdpw/housing-services-office

Kaiserslautern Military CoMMunity Chapel sChedule ARMY POC for Miesau, Landstuhl, and Deanner is the USAG R-P Chaplain’s Office in Bldg 3213 on Kleber Kaserne, DSN 541-2105, CIV 0611143-541-2105.

Jewish services

AIR FORCE POC for Ramstein North, Ramstein South, Vogelweh, and Kapaun is the USAF Chaplain Corps, Bldg 1201 on Ramstein, DSN 480-6148, CIV 06371-47-6148.

Messianic Jewish services

Buddhist (sGi)

Kapaun Chapel (Bldg 2781) Divine Liturgy: 9:00 a.m. Sundays Confessions by appointment

Ramstein South Chapel Jewish Shul Area (Bldg 2403) Shabbat Evening Service: 6:00 p.m. Fridays Ramstein South Chapel (Bldg 2403) Service: 10:00 a.m. Saturdays

orthodox Christian services

Ramstein North Chapel Conference Room (Bldg 1201) protestant services Service: 10:30 a.m., 4th Saturday Service: 12:00 p.m., 3rd Thursday at LRMC Chapel Landstuhl Community Chapel (Bldg 3773) For more info: ktownsgibuddhism@gmail.com Worship: 11:00 a.m. Sundays Children’s Youth Church: 11:00 a.m. Sundays Catholic services Daenner Community Chapel (Bldg 3150) Daenner Community Chapel (Bldg 3150) Chapel Next Sunday Mass: 12:30 p.m. (all year round) Worship: Sunday 10:00 a.m.

Confession: 11:45 p.m.

Children’s Church: Sunday 10:30 a.m.

Landstuhl Community Chapel Seventh-Day Adventist Worship Sabbath School: 9:30 a.m. Saturdays (Bldg 3773) Worship: 11:00 a.m. Saturdays Tue, Wed, Fri: 12 p.m.

Small Group: 6:00-7:00 p.m. Wednesday Sunday: 9 a.m.

Ramstein North Chapel (Bldg 1201) Confession: 8 a.m.

Contemporary Service: 11:00 a.m. Sundays Ramstein North Chapel (Bldg 1201) Ramstein South Chapel (Bldg 2403) Daily Mass: 11:30 a.m. Monday-Thursday Traditional with Communion: 9:30 a.m. Sundays Sunday Masses: 9 a.m., 1 p.m. & 5 p.m.

Vogelweh Chapel (Bldg 2063) Confession: RNC or by appt. 4 p.m.- 4:45 p.m.

Gospel Service: 11:00 a.m. Sundays.

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Service: 7:00 p.m. Saturdays

Ramstein South Chapel Mosque Area (Bldg 2403) Jummah Prayers: 1:15 p.m. Fridays Daily Prayers: 1:30 p.m. Monday-Thursday

Wisconsin evangelical lutheran synod (Wels) Ramstein South Chapel (Bldg 2403) Service: 4:00 p.m. 2nd & 4th Sundays

Kaiserslautern American

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June 19, 2020

435 CTS ensures ready Airmen

U.S Air Force Airmen assigned to the 86th Civil Engineer Squadron fire department conduct a rescue certification course at Ramstein Air Base, April 28. The skills learned in this course can be used to rescue people who are stuck on the side of a building or have fallen off a cliff, among other things.

Story and photos by Senior Airman Milton Hamilton 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Throughout the months of increased COVID-19 measures, the 435th Construction and Training Squadron hosted several

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“Our goal is to train highly capable engineers with essential war fighting skills necessary to succeed in a deployed environment,” said MSgt. Daniel Decastro, 435th CTS infrastructure section chief.

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training courses for various Air Force specialties within the 86th Airlift Wing.

Despite COVID-19, the 435th CTS ensured Airmen received necessary training to maintain readiness for contingency operations.

U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Brandon Williams, 786th Civil Engineer Squadron water and fuel systems maintenance journeyman, left, and Tech. Sgt. Ronald Melton, 435th Construction and Training Squadron water and fuel systems maintenance contingency training noncommissioned officer in charge, conduct a water purification test with a reverse osmosis water purification unit during proficiency training at Ramstein Air Base, April 29. The 435th CTS teaches a specialty course for all U.S. Air Forces in Europe water and fuel systems maintenance Airmen on how to properly operate and maintain the ROWPU in a contingency environment.

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During the training courses, the 435th CTS provided mission essential equipment training and other career-specific skills such as crane certification, welding and fire rescue procedures.

As the main training flight for U.S. Air Forces in Europe, the 435th CTS provides Airmen the opportunity to increase their respective Air Force specialty skill level.

“Airmen are required to have this training every three years,” Decastro said. “Most Airmen do not have this equipment in their home station so they come to the 435th CTS to get trained and certified to upgrade to journeyman or craftsman.”

Additionally, the 435th CTS trains allied and partner nation forces with similar jobs to USAFE Airmen.

“Last year we trained the Lithuanian military on how to operate, install, and maintain Mobile Aircraft Arresting Systems,” Decastro said. “In fact, our 435 CTS subject matter experts built the Lithuanian operation and maintenance program for their MAAS.” The training courses used to teach allies and U.S. Airmen could not have happened without the 435th CTS’ ability to navigate COVID-19.

“Our talented and smart instructors developed safety plans aligned with the Wing guidance to be able to continue teaching the mission essential equipment courses,” Decastro said. “We had to cut the class sizes in half, but the bright side was students were able to get more one-on-one time with the instructor, which allowed the students to gain a better grasp of the material.”

Even with the COVID-19 restrictions in place, the 435 CTS training mission continues.

June 19, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

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Kaiserslautern American

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June 19, 2020

Raider Vision in near space

Graphic by sdecoret / Shutterstock.com

by Ken Robinson Kaiserslautern High School Kaiserslautern High School’s Project Horizon team conducted a High Altitude Balloon launch and placed a suite of cameras and science experiments 35,596 meters into the stratosphere on June 7. The launch site for the team’s second HAB mission, nicknamed Raider II, took place in the beautiful vineyards of Bad Duerkheim.

The Raider II mission sought to obtain necessary atmospheric data to validate a number of hypotheses established throughout the school year. New sensors were added for this mission which included a new Geiger counter, ozone sensor and additional UV-A/B sensors. The team’s primary mission was to obtain as much data as possible to assess the overall effects of radiation in near space, specifically radiation within and above the ozone layer.

The team’s triangular flight frame served to house the team’s video capabilities.

Three action cameras, plus one Cannon interval shot camera were placed firmly on the balsa wood frame alongside two GPS modules. Hanging below the flight frame was a payload filled with science experiments, sensors, and a new APRS tracking transmitter which allowed the team to track the vessel throughout the flight via unique ham radio call sign.

Many months of planning were required for the mission.

The primary concern for the team was their ability to recover the payload. During the Raider I mission, the team actually lost their payload, although

a specialized Spot Trace GPS system and standard GPS system were on board. Fortunately, the team was able to recover the payload thanks to the third and most essential of tracking systems, the sponsor’s name and phone number written on the frame.

Recovery of the payload for the Raider II mission was much better thanks to an improved APRS tracking system and virtual tracking center. Due to the COVID-19 restrictions and school closure, the team was not able to provide live on-site tracking. Instead, the team established an online Command and Control Center which would guide ground crews towards the landing site. This online col-

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laboration effort paid large dividends as the students collectively maintained guidance and control throughout the mission.

The Project Horizon team will soon be planning their next mission — Raider III. For the Raider III mission, the team hopes to launch a multi-pod payload.

Each payload will be dedicated to a partner school. Through this outreach partnership the team hopes to spark additional interest for all students of ages in the areas of aerospace and atmospheric studies.

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June 19, 2020

Page 19

Explore the famous Burg Eltz

Photos by Allard One, Romas_Photo, Sergey Novikov / Shutterstock.com

by MilitaryInGermany.com I remember when we first moved to Germany, I found myself mesmerized by castles. I actually saw a Facebook post where someone mentioned that they had lived in Europe for over two years and they were tired of castles. What? I was seriously offended. How can you ever see too many castles?

Most Impressive Fast forward three years and I get it. However, a visit from my daughter prompted a day trip to a medieval castle nestled in the hills above the Mosel River between Koblenz and Trier. Burg Eltz is owned by a branch of the same family (the Eltz family) that lived there in the 12th century — 33 generations ago.

Burg Eltz is the castle that has impressed me the most and is now my favorite castle in Germany. Even in a region where it is almost impossible not to stumble over some castle ruins, this castle really stands out. Not many things are more associated with Europe than castles; and after visiting Burg Eltz, I have to say it’s one of the best I have ever seen.

Why? Well, let me tell you why.

That WOW Factor Burg Eltz sits in a lush green valley, hidden away from main road traffic. It is the first castle that has ever actually taken my breath away as we rounded a corner in the shuttle and got a look at the view. Unlike the vast majority of castles along the Mosel and Rhine Rivers, this was one of the few that has never been destroyed or badly damaged.

Burg Eltz’s setting is simply stunning, as it sits perched on a rock and surrounded by thick wooded hills and the babbling Elzbach Creek on three sides. This was apparently a strategy, since the location was perfect for exacting tolls on passing traders, which provided much of the early wealth to Burg Eltz’s residents.

Getting There You can reach the castle on foot by the scenic fifteen-minute walk through the woods from the parking lot or taking a much longer hike from a nearby town. On the other hand, you can cheat like we did and take the shuttle.

Either way, you will have a “wow” moment when you round the corner and see Burg Eltz lying before you.

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The History Unlike many castles that have been handed back and forth, or created only as an escape for royalty, Burg Eltz has been a real, live, lived-in castle since the first day of its medieval construction. Yes, the same family has lived here for thirty generations, and during this time, Burg Eltz has never been destroyed. It was attacked once, but never conquered. And in the world of castles, this is rare. It allowed Burg Eltz to remain much as it was in its earliest days, and to be home to a vast collection of authentic family heirlooms and artifacts. I was able to take photos before our tour guide came in and gently reminded us that photos are not permitted. Whoops.

Inside the Castle Walls Once inside the castle walls, the main courtyard is a hodgepodge of design styles, reflecting the fact that three different branches of the family once resided in the structure together.

Guided Tours All tours are guided and depart

e noW r a e W gain! a n e op

every 10 to 15 minutes in German.

Guided tours in other languages, including French, Dutch, and English, are also available but depart less frequently. Even more gems are present inside the residential quarters, as all tours include a visit to the rustic medieval kitchen and stately Knights Hall, where the families gathered for large feasts and conversation.

Location Burg Eltz is located in the Mosel Valley and is an easy drive, although the GPS address took us a bit off course. As you get closer to the castle, you will see signs for parking.

Address: Burg-Eltz-Straße 1, 56294 Münstermaifeld, Germany The castle is just under 2 hours north of Kaiserslautern, 1 hour and 30 minutes northwest of Wiesbaden and 3 hours northwest of Stuttgart.

Hours The castle is currently only open to the public from April until the end of October. The hours are 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m.

Food, Restrooms & Souvenirs Burg Eltz has a gift shop and two small cafes that serve meals and snacks. They are open daily when the castle is open.

Restrooms are conveniently located outside the castle, near the café.

Cost Credit cards are accepted at the gift shop, but you will need to bring Euro for the entrance fees, food, shuttle bus, parking, etc.

Parking: 2€ Per vehicle. Shuttle Bus: 2€ per person (each way) *Entrance: 10€ adults; 6,50€ students; 9€ group of 20 *Entrance fee includes admission to the Armoury & Treasury Editor’s note: There is a maximum of 200 guests in the castle system at any one time.

You are also required to wear face masks and stay a distance of 1.5 meters from others. Go to the castle website for more information: https://burg-eltz.de/

Kaiserslautern American

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June 19, 2020

Schlossberghoehlen Homburg, Europe’s biggest sandstone cave

Editor’s Note: You must wear masks and comply with COVID-19 hygiene rules.

Registering ahead of time is strongly recommended.

Photo by commons.wikimedia.org

by MilitaryInGermany.com

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The Schlossberghöhlen in Homburg, Europe’s biggest new red sandstone cave, is a super place to visit. It is the perfect little excursion for the whole family.

What makes the tour so fun is not only do you get to explore but everyone gets to wear a helmet, so everyone looks like they are ready to mine! Helmets are, of course, worn for safety reasons and not your friends’ entertainment.

The temperature in the caves

stays around 10 degree Celsius all year long so it is best to dress in layers. Before you start your tour, you will receive a quick introduction on what awaits you inside as well as the “house” rules. I am sure we have heard the saying, “You can look but don’t touch,” and these rules also apply down below. Once everyone is below, the tour guide will give you a brief summary on how these man-made tunnels came to be and everyone gets to look for a fossil.

The caves were originally

made for mining quartz in the 17th century but then closed for some time. It was rediscovered by a little boy who fell down a hole in the 1930s.

The caves are open April until October from 9 a.m to 5 p.m.

Entry for adults is €5 and children up to the age of 16 is €3.

It is best to call for reservations and also for an English tour.

Bringing a baby carrier is strongly advised for those with infants as you will need to walk down a few staircases and the cave is mainly sand.

Once you have been through the tour of the caves you can walk up to the Hohenburg ruins which lie right above the caves and offer a spectacular view of Homburg.

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Getting There The ‘museum’ is roughly a 30-minute drive from the KMC, 2.5 hours from Stuttgart and just under 1.5 hours from Wiesbaden.

If these caves interest you, visit their website at www. homburger-schlossberghoehlen. de or call +49 (0) 6841 / 20 64 Schlossberghöhlen Homburg Schlossberg-Höhen-Straße 66424 Homburg

Kaiserslautern American

June 19, 2020

Page 21

Ten tips for children learning handwriting - no pencil required!

by GrowingUpTherapy.com Is your child learning handwriting in school? Are you wondering how to support this process at home? Did you pick up a pencil and promptly break it in half at the mere thought of this endeavor?

Handwriting readiness is a tricky topic. Some children show an interest in learning to write as early as preschool. While this is great for some children, it is not very common and should not be expected of most children. In fact, the brain and body are not developmentally ready for handwriting until about 5-6 years of age. So, what can you do? These tips can help avoid frustration and maximize success.

1. Start with shapes: There’s actually a hierarchy of what is easiest to learn up to what is hardest. Have your child practice drawing a plus sign, circle, square, triangle and… very last… a diamond. Being able to copy a diamond correctly is actually an easy readiness “test” for handwriting.

2. People, too: Have your child draw a picture of a person or complete a drawing you make by adding “missing parts.”

3. Sensory drawing: Paint shapes on butcher paper at an easel or on the wall. Draw with a q-tip dipped in paint. Use a spray bottle and a kitchen sponge to draw shapes during clean-up time on the kitchen table.

4. Coloring is key: Coloring builds endurance and visualmotor control. If your child’s grasp is “funky”, a simple tip is to break off a tiny piece of crayon. About 1 inch long.

This way, his/her fingers have no choice but to use a proper, tripod grasp.

5. Big to small: It is much easier to use big muscles to learn a motor pattern. Have your child practice shapes and letters by drawing on the carpet or in the dirt with his/her toe or with a stick. You can also practice on the wall in the shower with

6.

7.

8.

9.

shaving cream or foam soap.

Grab a party streamer and try it in the sky, making big strokes above your head!

Easy to hard: On that note… it is developmentally easier to learn “straight line” letters, such as an “L” or an “F” and it is hardest to learn diagonal lines, such as a “K”. Also, upper case letters should be learned first, as they occupy the same space and don’t “dip down” or “go high” like lower case letters.

Chalk — old school is best: Did you know that drag feedback into the small muscles in the hand reinforces correct motor patterns? Have your child use sidewalk chalk to draw and trace or use a good old fashioned chalkboard. This is actually how the “Handwriting Without Tears” program teaches letter formation. www.lwtears.com Clay writing: Get some modeling clay. Spread it on a cookie sheet. Grab a wooden dowel or chopstick. You draw a shape or letter lightly and have your child press firmly to trace.

Guessing game: Draw a letter on your child’s back or on the palm of their hand with your pointer finger or the eraser on a pencil. Let them guess

Photo by Zabavna / Shutterstock.com

and then try to draw it on your back or hand.

10. Start at the top: Almost all letters should start at the top.

Reinforce this basic rule during practice. You can also practice “start at the top” strokes by having your child add lots of vertical lines to a “birthday cake” that you have drawn.

These pointers should point you in the right direction. Pun intended.

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Kaiserslautern American

June 19, 2020

Kaiserslautern American

June 19, 2020

Page 23

HOME CINEMA HIGHLIGHTS

Photo by repbone / Shutterstock.com

e classics! These are just a few Now’s the time to stream or rent some of the all-tim availability.

Check your streaming service for

DRAMA

COMEDY, CRIME, DRAMA

Poster by New Line Cinema

Poster by Universal Pictures

COMEDY, DRAMA

COMEDY, DRAMA, THRILLER

Poster by Buena Vista Pictures

ADVENTURE, DRAMA, FANTASY

Poster by 20th Century Fox

Poster by Miramax Films

Magnolia (1999)

Out of Sight (1998)

Rushmore (1998)

Barton Fink (1991)

Dead Man (1995)

On one random day, a dying father, a young wife, a male caretaker, a famous lost son, a police officer in love, a boy genius, an ex-boy genius, a game show host and an estranged daughter will each become part of a dazzling multiplicity of plots, but one story.

Stars: Tom Cruise, Julianne Moore Director: Paul Thomas Anderson

Meet Jack Foley, the most successful bank robber in the country. On the day he busts out of jail, he finds himself stealing something far more precious than money ... Karen Sisco’s heart. She’s smart, sexy and unfortunately for Jack, she’s a Federal Marshal.

Stars: George Clooney, Jennifer Lopez Director: Steven Soderbergh

Max, a student at Rushmore Academy, excels at everything except academics.

He meets and falls in love with a teacher, Ms Cross, but later discovers that his mentor is also in love with her.

Stars: Jason Schwartzman, Bill Murray, Olivia Williams Director: Wes Anderson

Playwright Barton Fink accepts an offer to write movie scripts in L.A. He finds himself with writer’s block when required to do a B-movie script. His neighbor tries to help, but he continues to struggle as a bizarre sequence of events distracts him.

Stars: John Turturro, John Goodman Directors: Joel Coen, Ethan Coen

On the run after murdering a man, accountant William Blake encounters a strange North American man named Nobody who prepares him for his journey into the spiritual world.

Stars: Johnny Depp, Gary Farmer, Crispin Glover Director: Jim Jarmusch

ADVENTURE, FAMILY, SCI-FI

COMEDY, FAMILY, FANTASY

DRAMA, FAMILY, FANTASY

ACTION, ADVENTURE, COMEDY

COMEDY, SCI-FI

Poster by 20th Century Fox

Poster by 20th Century Fox

Poster by Warner Bros.

Poster by Alliance Films

Poster by Paramount Pictures

Space Camp (1986)

Rookie of the Year (1993)

The Secret Garden (1993)

Sidekicks (1992)

Coneheads (1993)

Andie Bergstrom, an astronaut eagerly awaiting her first trip to space, runs a summer camp for teenagers with her NASAemployed husband, Zach. One night during an engine test, Andie and four teenage campers are accidentally shot into space.

Stars: Kate Capshaw, Lea Thompson Director: Harry Winer

A twelve-year-old boy finds himself among the major league players for the Chicago Cubs, after an accident, miraculously leaves him with a strong pitching arm.

Stars: Thomas Ian Nicholas, Gary Busey, Albert Hall Director: Daniel Stern

A young British girl is orphaned by an earthquake in India and is sent back to England to live in her uncle’s castle. Soon, she discovers a beautiful garden on the property and explores its secrets.

Stars: Kate Maberly, Maggie Smith, Heydon Prowse Director: Agnieszka Holland

Barry is an asthmatic kid having trouble in life. He lives with his father, a computer programmer, in Texas. Bullied Barry fantasizes about being Chuck Norris’ sidekick. So, he trains in martial arts to fulfill his dreams.

Stars: Chuck Norris, Beau Bridges Director: Aaron Norris

An alien couple with cone-shaped heads is mistakenly ditched on earth. While on Earth they start a family and are happy to adjust. After they return to their planet they have a surprise in store.

Stars: Dan Aykroyd, Jane Curtin, Robert Knott Director: Steve Barron

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