HAVE YOU READ YOUR KA TODAY?
May 6, 2016
Volume 40, number 18
Team Ramstein tests readiness with Wing Thunder 16-03 Story and photo by Staff Sgt. Leslie Keopka 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Team Ramstein participated in a base-wide inspection from April 17 to 27. Wing Thunder 16-03 tested operational readiness and communication skills amongst several units on Kaiserslautern Military Community installations. There was a simulated missile attack scenario, April 26, which involved several first responders, such as the fire department, security forces, explosive ordnance disposal team and medical personnel. “This exercise tested preparation and response actions we haven’t used in a long time,” said Brig. Gen. Jon T. Thomas, 86th Airlift Wing commander. “We intentionally developed a unique situation to better test the adaptability and responsiveness of our Airmen.” Inspections and exercises are a way for military units and personnel to ensure they are prepared for any realworld scenario. “The overall goal of Wing Thunder 16-03 was to increase installation pre-
First responders prepare a simulated casualty for transport during Wing Thunder April 26 on Ramstein. Wing Thunder was an inspection to evaluate the operational readiness and response of Team Ramstein.
paredness and resiliency in case of a conventional missile attack,” said Lt. Col. Bryan Dockter, 86th AW inspector general. “All of the installation’s
major muscle movements associated with passive missile defense and post-attack actions were exercised.” These exercises help to point out
areas needing additional training and processes that may not be as effective See READINESS, Page 2
Air expo reinforces camaraderie among multiple nations MARRAKECH, Morocco — The roar of aircraft engines, the coagulation of people’s voices through the crowd and the sound of an announcer over a loud speaker filled the air during this year’s Marrakech Air Show April 27 to 30 in Marrakech, Morocco. The U.S. and Moroccan forces along with 54 other countries joined together during the fourday air expo in hopes of increasing positive relations, enjoying the camaraderie between one another through their passion of flight, and viewing some of the newest aeronautical technologies that the world has to offer. During this year’s expo, several flying and static air-
craft were presented. U.S. participation included U.S. military aircraft and crew stationed in England and Germany. A KC-135 Stratotanker from the 100th Air Refueling Wing and a C-130J Super Hercules from the 86th Airlift Wing were displayed for guests to view from a static location. The presence of these aircraft at the show promoted strong ties between the Moroccan government and the United States, as well as increased their future interoperability efforts. In the past, Morocco has welcomingly encouraged aviation companies to cohesively work with their nation as a strategic location within the region of Africa. The U.S. aerospace industry specifically has invested in Morocco and Boeing’s joint-venture production facility known as Morocco Aero-Technical Interconnect Systems, which employs more than
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1,500 Moroccans. The collaboration has contributed to economic growth in the country as well as increased social stability. “Morocco has a very strong aeronautical capability. We believe they are one of the strongest in the region, and we work with them to make sure that they continue to be a forward-leaning, best-in-practices air force,” said Dwight Bush, U.S. ambassador to Morocco. Several U.S. companies and government agencies have participated in the Marrakech Air Show each year since 2008 and have witnessed the growth of the expo after each year’s passing. “The U.S. has participated since the first air show in 2008. And the reason for the air show is to demonstrate
New unit joins cyberwarfare, Page 3
See AIR EXPO, Page 2
LIFESTYLES
by Tech. Sgt. Brian Kimball Department of Defense News Europe
Chalking up our anxiety, separated from family, Page 8
Zweibruecken sponsors street theater, various markets, Page 14