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May 16, 2014
Volume 38, number 19
Ramstein hosts International Jump Week Nine nations strengthen capabilities, partnerships Story and photos by Airman 1st Class Jordan Castelan 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Parachutists from the U.S. and eight visiting nations came together to celebrate International Jump Week by participating in several jump-related training scenarios May 4 to 9 on Ramstein. Approximately 300 jumpers with various backgrounds added their experience and training together to complete more than 500 static-line and high-altitude jumps. The jumpers came from the Czech Republic, Estonia, Germany, Greece, the Netherlands, Romania, Spain and the United Kingdom. “Jump week is all about building partnership capacities,” Parachutists from the U.S. and eight visiting countries prepare to board a C-130J Super Hercules May 5 on Ramstein. Approximately 300 jumpers from nine nations including the U.S. came together to celebrate International Jump Week by participating in several jump-related training scenarios.
See JUMP WEEK, Page 3
KMC Spring Special Olympics back in full swing by Senior Airman Hailey Haux 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
T
he KMC Spring Special Olympics were once again underway May 9 at Pulaski Park on Vogelweh after being discontinued for approximately three years. “This event was held in 2011 and prior and was hosted by the Army garrison, but due to budget constraints they were no longer able to
host the Spring Special Olympics,” said Melody Tice-Baird, Special Olympics event coordinator. “I took it upon myself to try and recreate this special event for our German and American athletes here in Kaiserslautern.” This year’s Special Olympics consisted of events such as track and field, soccer, volleyball, basketball, softball, arts and crafts and karaoke. There were also non-competitive
events for children ages 5 to 7 who weren’t able to compete according to the rules. “We are out here to teach the athletes a little bit about the game,” said Master Sgt. Nick Palmer, 86th Operations Group and Special Olympics soccer event coordinator. “It’s a really good opportunity for us to give them the chance of feeling great. We helped them practice their dribbling skills, gave them the opportunity to make goals and helped them
with their passing skills. I can’t think of a better way to spend a Friday than to give these athletes a day they truly deserve.” Family and friends gathered around their loved ones at every sport to cheer them on throughout the course of the event. “I had so much fun playing soccer, basketball, and volleyball,” said Johnny Karaca, an athlete and son of See SPECIAL OLYMPICS, Page 5
Students stir up STEMposium, Page 10
SPORTS
According to German law, the washing of vehicles on streets at home is not authorized. Use car wash facilities.
SCHOOLS
Tip of the Week
LIFESTYLES
FEATURES
Gartenschau presents ‘four elements,’ Page 17
Color run brightens Ramstein, Page 24