Vol. 78, No. 19 NEWS BRIEFS MARCH AIR MUSEUM RECOGNIZES THE WOMEN OF VIETNAM
March Air Reserve Base, California
Friday, May 17, 2013
Fit-to-Fight: Breaking in the new running track
The Riverside Arts Council presents: A Piece Of My Heart, a tribute to the military women who served in Vietnam, by Shirley Lauro, at the March Field Air Museum, from Friday, May 24 to Sunday, May 26. Show times on Friday and Saturday will begin at 7:30 p.m. and 2 p.m., on Sunday. For more information and ticketing, contact the museum at 951-902-9405. VOLUNTEERS NEEDED AT THE RETIRED ACTIVITIES OFFICE The RAO is in need of volunteers to work Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to noon or noon to 3 p.m. Retired military and their dependents may apply. For more information, contact Lt. Col. Carter or Senior Master Sgt. Brown at 951-6554077 or 4079 RALLY ‘ROUND THE FLAG HELD AT THE MARCH AIR MUSEUM The Moreno Valley Chamber of Commerce Military Affairs Committee and the March Field Air Museum will host their 12th annual Rally ‘Round the Flag barbeque, Friday, June 4, at the museum. The event will kick-off at 6 p.m., with guest speaker, Betsy Ross. Deadline to purchase tickets is June 7. For more information on ticket price or to R.S.V.P., call the MAC at 951-697-4404
Use your smartphone to connect to the March Air Reserve Base official public website via the Microsoft tag app.
U.S. Air Force photo/Linda Welz
The new base track was host to an inaugural run April 11, as Team March members joined the boss to officially open the halfmile-circumference oval. Pictured from left are Col. Samuel Mahaney, 452d Air Mobility Wing commander, Col. Timothy McCoy, 452d Mission Support Group commander, Chris Mahaney, Lt. Col. Scipiaruth Curtis, 452d Air Mobility Wing performance manager, Col. Karen Magnus, 452d Mission Support Group deputy commander, Lt. Col. David Enfield, 452d Mission Support Group deputy commander and Maj. Deric Prescott, active duty staff judge advocate. See news brief on page 12 for track hours.
DEERS locks down access to some information updates by Debbie Gildea Air Force Personnel Center public affairs
JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas – Base identification card issuing offices will no longer be able to manually correct or update certain types of personnel information in the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System, Air Force Personnel Center officials said. The DOD Eligibility reporting system is used to enroll Airmen and their eligible family members for an identification card and associated benefits such as medical and dental care, federal installation access and access to installation facilities such as the commissary or exchange. Updates are required for major life events that change an Airman’s status, including marriage, divorce, birth or death of a dependent, promotion, reenlistment, extension, retirement, separation or unit transfer to another branch of service or agency. Personnel specialists use the Real-time Automated Personnel Identification System to update DEERS. In past, RAPIDS customer service representatives could manually update or correct members’ DEERS information. Now, access to member citizenship, date of birth, gender,
social security number, name, service dates, civilian or contractor employment dates, Air National Guard or Reserve activation periods and member separation transition benefit information is locked down. The lockdown does not affect dependent family member record information that needs to be updated. “Members’ DEERS records are established and updated by an authoritative data feed directly from a personnel source, such as the Air Reserve Personnel Center. If information about a member that feeds into DEERS is wrong, the ID card issuing office cannot fix that. Only the office of primary responsibility for that information can correct it,” said Ed Yoder, AFPC DEERS/RAPIDS operations branch assistant chief. For example, if a member’s reenlistment date is wrong, the reenlistments office must correct it. If the social security number in DEERS is wrong or a member becomes an American citizen after the DEERS record is established, he or she will need help from the Total Force Service Center to verify information in the personnel data system. “If you have incorrect or outdated information in your DEERS record and it is locked down, your first step is to contact the origin of the information and work with them to correct it. Once it’s corrected in the person-
nel data system, it will flow to DEERS and be updated,” Yoder said. Typical office of primary responsibility include military reenlistment, separation and retirement offices, or the civilian human resource office, or the contractor trusted agent. Airmen who don’t know the appropriate OPR for specific information should go to the myPers website, Yoder advised. “Once your record is updated, you can check the corrections or updates online at the eMilConnect website,” said Yoder. “Depending on the nature of the correction, Airmen may need to get a new ID card, so keep an eye on your records.” Retired military members who need a DEERS update or correction can submit a request to AFPC, Yoder said. Once AFPC completes the correction action, an Air Force Form 281, “Notification of Change in Service Member’s Official Records,” is filed in the retired member’s military record and the member’s documents are returned. For more information on DEERS updates and other personnel issues, visit the myPers website at https://mypers.af.mil [ https://mypers.af.mil/ ] and enter “21534” or “DEERS Record Correction” in the search window.
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Volume 78, Number 19 452 AMW Public Affairs
895 Baucom Ave. SE, #102 March ARB, CA 92518-2266 452amw.paworkflow@us.af.mil fax: 951-655-7343 phone: 951-655-4137 COMMANDER
Col. Samuel Mahaney PUBLIC AFFAIRS OFFICER
Lt. Col. Donald Traud EDITOR
Darnell Gardner 452 AMW EDITORIAL STAFF 2nd Lt. Bari Yonkers Master Sgt. Linda Welz Tech. Sgt. Megan Crusher Staff Sgt. Joe Davidson Staff Sgt. Carrie Peasinger The Beacon is published by Aerotech News and Review. Aerotech is a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with the 452nd Air Mobility Wing. This civilian enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for employees and members of U.S. military services, retirees and family members. Contents 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 newspaper, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement of the products or services by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or Aerotech News and Review, Inc. Everything advertised in this newspaper shall be made available for purchase, use or patron age without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the staff of the 452nd Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs office at March Air Reserve Base. All photographs in the Beacon are Air Force photos unless otherwise stated. For advertising, contact Aerotech directly at 877-247-9288.
Aerotech News and Review 456 East Ave. K-4, Suite 8 Lancaster, CA 93535 www.aerotechnews.com
www.march.afrc.af.mil commentary
Autism, … by Capt. Jessica L. Ditson, MSW candidate University of Southern California
With world Autism awareness month coming to an end, I wonder, being the parent of a child affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and part of military leadership, did it help? Specifically, has military leadership become any more aware of the trials and tribulations that raising a child with ASD can have on military families? With a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention estimated 1 in 50 children having a diagnosis that places them on the Autism spectrum, the odds are better that you know a family with a child living with ASD than without. While some have used the terms “epidemic”, “tsunami”, or “pandemic” when describing this significant increase in the number of children affected by ASD, I am heartened by new streamlined diagnostic criteria, better identification safeguards, as well as access to available support services. With the military being such a small subset of the U.S. population and having a Department of Defense (DOD) estimated 20,000 dependent family members living with ASD, this can mean that without enough community resource information, leadership and military members can struggle to relate when issues connected with ASD come to the forefront. Service members can find themselves between a rock and a hard place when they have to leave work early to handle a situation at school, with what can become a frequent basis, which is especially common when major life changes are added to the mix. For families living with a child with ASD things like moving, changing schools, changing schedules or upcoming deployments can present a challenge that, for a child with ASD, can seem catastrophic. These slight changes may seem small to our leadership, but can send shock waves to the ASD family system for weeks, or months. Leadership has to walk a fine line between taking care of the needs of the service member and mission accomplishments. A critical element to this is to know your personnel, their family
situation and the medical conditions, often referred to as “committed leadership.” Once leadership knows about a family’s needs, research can begin to locate resources to assist them and minimize the impact to the unit. Generally military leadership, middle or senior, is not provided training on the effects having a child with ASD can have on our service members. This, coupled with the mental and emotional gymnastics of juggling mission accomplishment and family needs, can lead to unneeded mistakes and injury-related mishaps when a service member’s mind is not completely focused on the task at hand. The problem is twofold; 1) Leadership, who is not personally touched by this, is normally disinterested in this type training and sees it as another excuse, or a scam and 2) Junior members are reluctant to explain the impact of this diagnosis on the family and that they lack knowledge of the resources available to them. With an 11 year war still being supported, how can military leadership support families who are trying to serve their country and take the best care possible of a child with ASD? Acceptance is the first step; this requires a willingness to seek information on what life can look like in the home of that junior service member. Resources like Autism Speaks, ACT Today, Operation Autism and The Autistic Military Child can help to shed some light on common behaviors and triggers for ASD children. Ensuring resources are understood and accessible is the next step, this means getting familiar with programs like the Exceptional Family Member Program (EFMP) and TRICARE programs such as Extended Care Health Option (ECHO). For a young family with a new diagnosis, these two supports functions can provide amazing support, along with additional guidance to community and military resources. By no means should leaders be expected to become subject matter experts, but an understanding of ASD and the necessary and available supports for military families, can go a long way to supporting career retention, overall job satisfaction, healthy family functioning and mission accomplishment.
West Region transition TRICARE Management Activity
TRICARE is aware that Prime enrollees in the West region have been experiencing longer than usual wait times for authorizations for referrals to specialty care since the April 1, 2013, start of health delivery under the new contract with UnitedHealthcare Military & Veterans. Their top priority is to ensure continuity and access to care for all beneficiaries in the West Region. Because of the extraordinary circumstances, the Department of Defense has decided to make a limited, temporary change that will allow primary care managers to refer patients for specialty care without the required authorization from UnitedHealthcare. The TRICARE Regional OfficeWest is working closely with United-
Healthcare to address all beneficiary concerns, reduce the backlog of referrals awaiting authorization by the contractor and ensure that beneficiaries receive quality health care and customer service. They ask that beneficiaries continue to be patient with UnitedHealthcare during this busy time. Call center hours have been extended: current hours are 7 a.m. to 7 p.m., across all West Region time zones. While UnitedHealthcare is working on improvements to their internal processes, TRICARE Management Activity is taking steps to reduce the impact to your access to quality healthcare. All beneficiaries in the West Region should have already received a Welcome Packet from UnitedHealthcare. Beneficiaries will work
See transition, page 4
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Don’t Surf and drive. by Michael J Cullen, March Air Reserve Base legal office intern
Talking on a cell phone and texting while driving are dangerous activities and despite advertisements and education, many forget these actions are punishable as traffic violations. All California traffic laws apply while driving on March Air Reserve Base, including those relating to cell phone use. Speaking and texting on a handheld cell phone device, while driving is strictly prohibited in California. It does not matter, if at the red light on Cactus Ave., or at a stop sign on base, these laws are applicable when operating a motor vehicle on public property. Most recently, a California court ruled that using a cell phone to check a map on a global positioning system program is also illegal under these laws, unless it is hands-free, mounted on the vehicle dashboard. The fine for using a cell phone while driving, first offense, will cost a total of $76 - the second offense is $190. However, if involved in an accident while using a cell phone, the driver can be found guilty of reckless driving, which carries a much higher penalty. A separate law prohibiting tex-
ting while driving went into effect in 2009. Violation of this law is punishable by an initial fine of $20. All
is also codified cell phones as “Electronic Wireless Communications Device: Prohibited Use.” It prohibits
U.S. Air Force photo/Maj. Deric Prescott
March Air Reserve Base legal office intern, Michael Cullen, is caught texting while driving by Staff Sgt. David Shore, legal specialist. California traffic laws prohibits cell phone usage while operating a vehicle - this also applies to drivers operating vehicles on March ARB. It is illegal to use a cell phone while driving unless it is connected to an approved hands-free device.
subsequent offenses receive a $50 fine. This law, known as the “texting ban” law, did not only ban texting, it
sending emails or browsing the internet while driving. Unknown to most, it is a violation to use this device if in
a parking space with the engine running. “If you take into account the possible impact on your driving record and insurance costs, the total monetary cost can be significant,” said Maj. Deric Prescott, March ARB active duty Staff Judge Advocate. “No matter how important you think that text or call might be, you need to seriously think about the severe consequences that come from driving while distracted.” In 2012, the University of California at Berkeley released a study claiming that deaths blamed on drivers using handheld cell phones HAVE decreased 47% since 2008, the year the state legislature passed the law banning handheld devices. Permissible hand-free use of cell phones includes utilizing a speakerphone function, using a wired headset, or using a Bluetooth wireless device. Individuals operating an authorized emergency vehicle are allowed to use a handheld device. Novice drivers, those under the age of 18, are prohibited from any cell phone use while in the vehicle. However, keep in mind that use of a handheld cell phone is always justified when making an emergency call. Please don’t text and drive and save the surfing for the beach.
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transition, from page 2 closely with UnitedHealthcare on many issues, such as enrollment, referral and prior authorization requests, claims processing and customer service. Register online at www.uhcmilitarywest.com to track referrals, authorization, claims and much more. UnitedHealthcare will not provide customer service or support for TRICARE For Life, the U.S. Family Health Plan or for pharmacy or dental benefits. Welcome Packets were sent to TFL beneficiaries as an announcement of a change in TRICARE in the West Region, but no action is required. Wisconsin Physicians Service continues to serve as the TFL contractor, providing assistance with claims and customer service. If you have questions, contact WPS at 1-866-773-0404 or on their web site at www.tricare4u.com
www.march.afrc.af.mil
Leveraging credit cards to strengthen your credit score by Randy Hopper AVP Credit Card Lending Navy Federal Credit Union
A strong credit score can be an integral part of staying financially secure, whatever the economic climate. But for many U.S. servicemembers, determining exactly what has an impact on their score can be a daunting task. One thing is for sure: credit cards can and do impact your credit score – positively or negatively – depending upon how you use them. In fact, credit cards can be one of your best friends or your worst enemies when it comes to your score. So, how can you make your plastic work for you in the quest for strong credit? Below are some tips on how to use your cards to strengthen or maintain your credit and avoid some pitfalls that may lower your score in a hurry. Manage your debt-to-credit ratio: Closely watch your credit card balance relative to your credit limit, called your “debt-to-credit ratio.”
Experts differ about the ideal ratio, but all agree that keeping your debt below 30 percent of your available credit line is key to ensuring your credit score isn’t negatively impacted. Check your statement regularly to make sure that your credit line hasn’t been reduced by your card company, thus raising your debt-tocredit ratio. Consider a balance transfer: If you’re trying to pay down your balance, explore the option of a balance transfer. A balance transfer at a low rate makes it easier to pay down your balance, improving your debt-to-credit ratio as your balance decreases. Keep an eye out for balance transfers with no fees, zero percent interest during the introductory period and a low rate after the intro period expires. Know that the annual percentage rate on these offers can jump to more than 20 percent after the introductory window – though all credit union interest rates are capped at 18 percent. Make all your payments on time: Timely payments establish a track
record of reliability and boost credit. If possible, set up automatic monthly payments along with text and email alerts to remind you of your due date. For controlled spending and easy qualification, go with a secured card: If you’re wary that a new credit card may make it more difficult to control spending, secured cards may be a great solution for you. They are also a good option if you have little to no credit or your credit standing is below average. Secured cards require that you provide an up-front deposit, which then equals your credit line. Because secured card limits cannot exceed what you have deposited and tend to be lower than other cards, they help you control your spending. Secured cards also aid you in establishing a track record of on-time payments. Check with your financial institution to see if they offer a secured card that can help you stay within budget and build credit. Be smart about opening and closing accounts: As a general rule, avoid closing any card accounts. Having a See credit, page 6
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credit, from page 4 higher average age on your credit accounts positively impacts your credit score. Beware not to open a large number of credit cards in a short span of time – doing so can indicate to lenders that you are overly eager for credit. Pay down your balance as much as possible each month: Fully paying your balance helps you maintain a healthy debt-to-credit ratio. If it is not possible to pay down your entire balance, try to at least pay down some portion to manage your debt and minimize interest payments. Maintain some level of activity: Make regular purchases with each of your cards, even if minimal. Complete inactivity can lead to the account being closed. Your credit can even be adversely impacted by inactive cards before the account is shut down. Don’t rely on debit or prepaid cards to build credit: Debit and prepaid cards are great additions to your wallet for convenience. However, these cards draw on available funds from an account instead of a line of credit. So using them will not boost your credit. Keeping these tips in mind, you can move forward with a sense of confidence about how to put your cards to work for you. Just remember that credit cards are one of several tools in your toolbelt when it comes to building that solid credit score.
www.march.afrc.af.mil
Help is Here
Contact Us
We all face problems from time to time. It may be
Family, Work,
Air Force Reserve
Psychological Health Advocacy Program
or Military. As an Air Force reservist, there are experts to assist you with getting the psychological assistance you or your family needs. The Psychological Health Advocacy Program (PHAP) has members to assist you and your family obtain these services. Many people have not interacted with the mental health community. Those who have, often don’t share their positive experiences. PHAP members can answer questions about mental health services and how you can access these resources. National Suicide Prevention Lifeline: 1-800-273-8255 PHAP Call Center –24/7: 1-888-810-2400 Visit us on the web: http://afrc.phap.net Organizational Email: AFRC.PHAP@US.AF.MIL
HQ AFRC Program Manager Ronald Helms, Capt, USAFR Email: Ronald.Helms@us.af.mil Cell: (478) 550-0797 South Region Argarita Stewart, Case Facilitator Email: Argarita.Stewart.ctr@us.af.mil Phone: (678) 655-2464 Phone: DSN: 625-2464 Cell: (484) 684-9708 North Region Jennifer Wedel, Case Facilitator Email: Jennifer.Wedel.ctr@wpafb.af.mil Phone: (937)257-2396 DSN: 787-2396 Cell: (937) 470-5544 West Region Karen Orcutt, Case Facilitator Email: Karen.Orcutt.ctr@us.af.mil Phone: (707) 424-2704 DSN: 837-2704 Cell: (484) 684-9711 June 2012
You and Your family Are Not Alone
The Beacon DISASTER PREPARDNESS SERIES
Preparing to survive: Preparing the community by Robert Kaschak 452 AMW Emergency Management technician
Over the past several weeks, the Emergency Management office has been promoting disaster preparedness awareness by delivering content aimed at provoking thought toward preparing for a disastrous event. The goal is to ensure everyone takes positive action to protect themselves and loved ones in the event of a catastrophe. However, once prepared, interest tends to wane as life’s daily requirements and needs take over. A truly prepared individual should take time to plan for the next level – maintaining community preparedness. There are many ways to get involved with community preparation, especially before a disaster occurs. The entire community should participate in programs and activities centered on making their families, homes and communities safer from risks and threats. Community leaders agree the formula for ensuring a safer homeland consists of trained and informed volunteers and increased support of emergency response agencies. Major disasters can overwhelm first-responder agencies, empowering individuals to step up their game and lend support. The following are ways to prepare a community for disaster response: Volunteer to support disaster efforts in your community. Get trained and volunteer with a Community Emergency Response Team, Medical Reserve Corps unit and/or other Citizen Corps Partner Program or Affiliate organization. Many local faith-based and community organizations have programs active in supporting disasters. Be part of the community planning process. Connect and collaborate with your local emergency planning group, Citizen Corps Council or local emergency management agency. Contact nearest planning organization. Join or start a preparedness project. Find an event or identify local resources, build a team, choose a project, set goals and serve your com-
munity by improving the preparedness of your friends, colleagues and neighbors. Check out the organizations already doing good work. Many existing service groups have identified community needs and have developed the expertise to provide solutions. Visit www.CitizenCorps.gov, Citizen Corps Councils, USAonWatch (Neighborhood Watch) teams, Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT), Fire Corps units, Volunteers in Police Service (VIPS) units, and Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) units and ask them what you can do to prepare and train yourself and your community for disasters. You can also get in touch with your local fire department, police department, paramedics, or emergency management agency to discuss ways to prepare your community and improve its capacity to respond to and recover from disaster. Contact local chapters of Citizen Corps Affiliates, such as the American Red Cross and National Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster for local disaster preparedness and response service opportunities. Be sure to ask the organization for items they might need so they can be fully prepared to develop a plan of action, unique to the community. Get involved. Find your local preparedness programs at www. citizencorps.gov/cc/searchCouncil. do?submitByZip. There are many organizations with knowledge and opportunities to utilize resources and people to come together in a common goal for the communitypreparedness and survival. Whether it is your home, neighborhood, place of business or your school, take a few simple steps to prepare your community. Many unknown benefits can be uncovered to include networking, sharing resources and ideas and most importantly, a sense of safety and readiness. Disasters cannot be scripted or predicted. Our best chance of overcoming the incident is to prepare for the worst case and continue to maintain vigilance. Remember, in southern California, it is not if, but when!
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www.march.afrc.af.mil
First sergeants serve as the commander’s representative on councils, boards and selected military events. They are the liaison and spokesperson between the enlisted force of the unit and the commander. First sergeants communicate and advise the commander and staff on matters of health, morale, welfare, training, professional development and utilization of enlisted personnel.
SENIOR MASTER SERGEANT WAYNE T. MORALES Senior Master Sgt. Wayne T. Morales is the first sergeant for the 452d Maintenance Squadron. He joined the U.S. Air Force Reserve in 1993, as a KC-135 aircraft maintenance crew chief. In 2004, Morales was selected to be the first sergeant for the 752d Aircraft Maintenance Squadron and later in 2009, was transferred to the 452d Maintenance Squadron to continue his duties. He is a veteran of operations NORTHERN WATCH, ENDURING FREEDOM, IRAQI FREEDOM and a variety of other missions. In addition to his duties in the Air Force Reserve, Morales is an assistant vice president for a local bank, where he is the business systems analyst for their Project Testing division. He acquired his Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from the University of Phoenix in 1997 and continues his management education by attending leadership seminars and sharing his knowledge with banking associates. In addition, Morales enjoys taking Karate lessons at the local YMCA and serving his community in the City of Glendora, Calif.
MASTER SERGEANT DANYELL STOUTAMIRE Master Sgt. Danyell Stoutamire is the first sergeant for the 752d Medical Squadron. Stoutamire entered the U.S. Air Force in 1996. His active duty background includes various duties as a weapons armament systems crew chief for the F-15 Eagle and B-1B Lancer aircrafts. He joined the Air Force Reserve in 2000. Prior to being selected as a first sergeant, he performed duties as a medical service technician. Stoutamire’s assignments include bases in South Dakota and California. He also served in Japan, Korea, Alaska, Saudi Arabia and deployed multiple times in support of Operations SOUTHERN and NORTHERN WATCH.
MASTER SERGEANT MARK ANDERSON Master Sgt. Mark Anderson is the first sergeant for the 336th Air Refueling Squadron. In 1985, he enlisted in the active-duty Air Force and was trained as an aircraft crew chief, assigned to the 35th Equipment Maintenance Squadron at George Air Force Base, Calif. Anderson left active duty and joined the Reserve in 1990, as an F-16 Fighting Falcon crew chief with the 944th Fighter Wing, Luke AFB, Ariz. In 2006, he was transferred to March ARB, where he worked in the maintenance operations control center with the 452d Maintenance Operations Squadron. Anderson was selected as the first sergeant for the 452d Operations Support Squadron in 2007, where he remained until 2011. He is a veteran of operations ENDURING and IRAQI FREEDOM. In addition to his duties as a reservist, Anderson works as an operations manager for Honeywell Aerospace - one of his biggest customers is the U.S. Air Force. He earned a bachelor’s degree in Aviation Management from Southern Illinois University and enjoys spending time with family, mountain biking, hiking and attending National Hockey League games.
MASTER SERGEANT DARRYL M.WILLINGHAM Master Sgt. Darryl Willingham is the first sergeant for the 452d Aeromedical Staging Squadron. Willingham enlisted in the U.S. Marine Corps in 1982. He began his career as an Infantryman / Heavy Vehicle Operator assigned to 3rd Battalion 1st Marines, 1st Marine Division. Willingham was medically discharged after serving nine years, due to an injury sustained while deployed to the Far East. In 2003, he joined the Air Force Reserve, 452d Civil Engineer Squadron. He graduated from the civil engineer’s Structural Apprentice School in 2005 and selected to attend the Air Force Anti-Terrorism level II Course. Prior to being selected as a first sergeant, he performed duties with the March Field Total Force Honor Guard. Willingham served as a first sergeant for the 452d Logistic Readiness Squadron. In his spare time, he volunteers as a Youth Boot Camp drill instructor for at-risk kids in Los Angeles and Pasadena. He assisted the 452d ASTS with launching the squadron’s first annual “Feed Across America Project” on Thanksgiving Day. He also volunteers to help homeless veterans find places to live in L.A. and Orange County.
March Exchange Credit Card Fees Impact Entire Military Community Army & Air Force Exchange Service Public Affairs
MARCH AIR RESERVE BASE EXCHANGE, Calif. – Military shoppers at the March Exchange probably do not give a second thought as to which credit card to use at checkout. What they may not be aware of, is the use of bank-issued cards at the Exchange ultimately costs the military community millions annually. Last year alone, bank-issued card processing expenses at the March Exchange facilities sapped more than $83,000 from the Exchange and critical funds that could have been used for morale, welfare and recreation programs. One way military families can help reduce costs and strengthen their Exchange benefit is to take advantage of the Exchange’s exclusive MILITARY STAR® Card. Unlike bank cards, profits generated from the MILITARY
STAR® Card are shared with military communities through contributions to the military service’s quality-of-life funds. “Using the MILITARY STAR® Card is one of the easiest ways for troops to directly impact their Exchange and morale, welfare and recreation benefits,” said Stephanie Kuykendall-Bernstein, General Manager, March Exchange. “Reducing these unnecessary expenses can go a long way in making March a better place to work and live.” The MILITARY STAR® Card is accepted at all Army and Air Force, Navy, Marine Corps and Coast Guard Exchange activities, as well as the Exchange Catalog and the Exchange Online store at www.shopmyexchange.com. Authorized exchange shoppers can learn more about the MILITARY STAR® Card by visiting www.shopmyexchange.com and clicking “Credit Services.”
ECARS: Reminder and Exemptions March Air Reserve Base is in an enhanced smog area requiring cars to have biennial smog testing, unless they qualify for a smog exemption. To ensure that we are compliant with the regulations, March ARB has implemented the ECARS self-certification system. Vehicles registered in areas subject to the biennial smog certification program are required to submit evidence of a smog certification every other renewal period. All Federal Employees driving on March ARB, including active-duty personnel, are required to self-certify even if your home of record is in another state. Owners of vehicles six or less model years old will pay an annual smog abatement fee for the first six registration years instead of being required to provide a biennial smog certification. Does my vehicle qualify for a smog exemption? Smog inspections are required unless your vehicle is: • Hybrid • Gasoline powered 1975 year model or older • Diesel powered 1997 year model and older or with a • • Gross Vehicle Weight rating • GVWR of more than 14,000 lbs • Electric • Natural gas powered with a GVWR rating of more than 14,000 lbs • Motorcycle NOTE: You are still required to self-certify with ECARS even if your car is exempt. If you have any questions please call Paul Pitman at (951)-655-5062 or E-mail at 452amw. ecars@us.af.mil
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www.march.afrc.af.mil
Candid Comments | In the News
When a candid comment is not enough: Asian-Pacific Islander Month My father grew up in Hawai’i and with that, entrenched in a rich Hawaiian and Filipino culture that stressed the values of family and self-sustainment. Life on the Island was hard, forcing him to labor many hours of backbreaking work to provide for the family – and still, there was very little to go around. His strong family values gave him the endurance and will to get through those tough times so we could have a better life. My dad’s family lived off the land as a way of life. Everything they ate came from the ocean they fished in, the crops they grew, or the domestic animals they kept – a Cory Jugas model for self –sustainment. 452d Air Mobility Wing I did not grow up on the Morale, Welfare and Island, so there is a huge differRecreation assistant ence in the way I perceive life, in Moreno Valley, Calif. comparison to the way they do. Everyone there seems to have a laid back lifestyle, while everyone here [continental U.S.], is always in a hurry and view a fast-paced lifestyle as normal – if you are not hustling, then you are just being lazy. Back home, during family get-togethers, everyone contributes a potluck of traditional Hawaiian and Filipino dishes on the family beach. The nights are filled with food, drink and dance, complimented by stories, tales and traditions of the “ole’ days.” The only traditions that I can keep up with are a strong “ohana” [family] bond and attempt to recreate the traditional Hawaiian and Filipino dishes. Since leaving the Island, we have found refuge in our heritage by attending the annual Hawaiian Ho’olaule’a festival, where we sit and watch traditional Hawaiian dancing and song, along with other AsianPacific Islanders. When I play traditional Hawaiian music, my son Kaleikekoa, already tries to mimic Hawaiian dancing from moving his hands to slapping his chest and stomping. I cannot give him the full experience of being a Pacific Islander, but like what my father did for me and my siblings, I can instill in him the basics and traditions of what makes us Pacific Islanders.
Technology and society have drastically changed my way of life, having evolved in a manner far different from what I was accustomed to during my early years. Born and raised on the island of Samoa (Upolu island) and raised by my grandparents, (Tiaoa Moa Mataipule (high chief) & Sivaimauga Moa Tuiali’i Mataipule (ali’i) highest chief), I am tremendously blessed and thankful to have such a rich history and culture, as well as humble beginnings. My grandparents were very humble people. They would give a stranger their last dollar or the shirts off their back, if it were for a good or helpful cause. They descended from a long line of chiefs, so they knew how to lead people with a sense of humility and respect. They were proud of the legacy and heritage their parents laid out for them and it was very important to pass those values to each and every generation thereafter. Growing up as a child, it was typical for Samoan people to share in the belief that family is always priority and God is above all else. They were fierce when it came to showing us love, but fiercer when it came to discipline. We rarely watched television and most of our free time was spent helping Senior Airman with daily chores, such as growing and harvesting our own food, raising and helping my cousins collect firewood for cooking. Coral Williams livestock Respect was given at all times, no matter the circumstance or struggle - it 163d Reconnaissance Wing is an inherent value that all Samoans grow up with on the island. We have accounting technician to speak when entering a room; always say please and thank you, yes and Samoa, Upolu Island no sir; and maintain respect for the elders - we had to give up our seat if an elder walked in the room. Being polite and lending a helping hand was expected, so holding the door for the person behind you, or saying, tulou [excuse me] when needed is a must in our culture. We were taught to love people for who they are and not for what you can get from them. It was rare for Samoans to stray from these common practices, or Fa’asamoa (the Samoan way of life). When I moved to the continental U.S., at 12-years old, it was very difficult to adjust to American culture. I had to learn how to speak English, as it was my second language. Sports were also a bit different. The most popular sports in Samoa were rugby, cricket, canoe racing, netball, and volleyball. Later in my teens, I noticed how teens here, would disrespect their parents without any worries – it was a rude awakening. In Samoa, every village had a curfew and they blew a shell horn every evening as a sign for (loku) prayer and family time. This was a time for families to sing, say their family prayers and eat dinner. There was no set religion, but Christianity was more commonly practiced.. We have to do a better job on passing good values off on to our children. I have two children, Kingston and Keilani and I intend to pass on my heritage so that they too can enjoy the long line of traditions and cultures I experienced as a child. Adapting to military life was easy because some of those characteristics go hand-in-hand. The character values I learned growing up only strengthened the foundation on which I base my Air Force Core Values.
May 17, 2013
The Beacon
Sexual Harassment and Sexual Assault VISUAL
Ogling Staring Posters Magazines Flyers Material of a sexual nature
VERBAL
Teasing Jokes Remarks Questions Telephone calls Whistles Yells Hoots Comments
WRITTEN
Letters Emails Texting Instant messaging Twitter Facebook Material of a sexual nature
Behaviors TOUCHING
Leaning over Cornering Pinching Brushing against Unwanted Touching Patting Grabbing Caressing Kissing
POWER
THREATS
FORCE
Pressure for dates, sexual favors, or to participate in sexual activity
Demands
Indecent acts
Quid Pro Quo
Physical assault
Using position for relationships, request dates, sex, etc.,
Demotion
Loss of job Promotion Deployment Redeployment
Equal Opportunity Office, Building 441 Rm 30, Telephone 655-7402 1. From left to right, seriousness and intensity of behaviors increase. 2. When behaviors are effectively addressed at the lower end, instances of behavior at the more serious end decrease. 3. When leaders demonstrate willingness to stop and prevent issues at the lower end, team members tend to develop greater trust that they will properly address the more serious behaviors.
Forcible Sodomy Rape
Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Office, Building 441, Telephone 655-4551
Your Equal Opportunity and Sexual Assault Prevention and Response teams are available to assist leaders at every level to address sexual harassment and assault, respectively. Let’s work together for a climate of respect and trust.
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May 31 is deadline to sign up for TRICARE automatic payments
WASHINGTON, D.C. -- Beneficiaries enrolled in TRICARE Reserve Select or TRICARE Retired Reserve who pay monthly premiums by check must switch to an electronic form of payment by May 31 to avoid losing coverage. The TRICARE agency will only accept monthly premium payments using recurring automatic payments by credit or debit card, or by recurring electronic funds transfer from a linked bank account. To avoid confusion, beneficiaries should verify that their bank processes Electronic Funds Transfers for payments. The Defense Manpower Data Center notified current TRR and TRS beneficiaries directly by E-mail, and new beneficiaries were informed in their welcome package information when enrolling. Electronic payments streamline account management and ensure continuous coverage for beneficiaries. Failure to pay premiums by the due date results in termination of coverage. Beneficiaries can contact their regional contractor to set up automatic payments and get more information. “There are still a considerable number of Air Force reservists in the West Region who have yet to establish their automated payment option with TRICARE for their monthly TRS/ TRR premiums,” said James F. Walsh, Air Force Reserve chief of Benefits and Entitlements Policy. “Those members who do not have this requirement established by the deadline will have their coverage suspended and possibly terminated for 12-months come June 1,” he said. Contact information for each region is available online at www.TRICARE.mil/contacts.
The Beacon
May 17, 2013
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The Chaplain’s Corner by Senior Airman Sarah Dyroff 452 AMW Chaplain services
I’ve noticed in the past month that my mailbox and Facebook account have been flooded with dozens of special event invitations, mainly in the graduation and wedding category. The month of June is particularly jam-packed, sometimes with two different occasions marked on the same day. Now, if you’re like me, your first reaction to such events would be filled with joy and excitement - after all, there’s a celebrating and you are invited. But then, within seconds of receiving such joyful news, your brain starts to do a funny little “dance” called brainstorming. Immediately, you begin to ask yourself such questions: When and where are these events going to take place? What type of gift should I consider bringing? Two important resources revolve around these questions: time and money. Each of these resources have a specific purpose in our lives and we have the freedom to make decisions and manage those resources the way we see fit. However, sometimes we feel that too much of our time and money is demanded of us and if you pay bills, have kids, or are in school, you’ll know exactly what I mean. For many of us, it may seem that these resources of time and money are too limited and not enough. We receive invitations to joyful events, but our brains start doing that fun little dance again, trying to figure out how we can make it all work. Let me pose this thought: While we may feel limited in our resources, we can still be a huge blessing to others around us. Time and money can disappear quickly, but thank God for those moments when our brains do the dance, because it’s in those very moments where we create blessings for others. That wedding gift on your friend’s registry may be out of your budget, but you may discover a little extra time to help the couple move furniture or pick up dry-cleaning. That neighbor’s graduation may be scheduled the same day as your best friend’s, but you discover a little extra money to send your neighbor a gift card with an encouraging note. Time and money will come and go, but your thoughts and creativity are never-ending. Perhaps you feel exhausted and think that you don’t have anything left to give; however, the truth is that you have much to give, even without time or money. From the small, everyday tasks, to the big events and celebrations, your thoughtfulness matters. Don’t forget, even in the small things, whether noticed or unnoticed, you can be a tremendous blessing. God Bless!
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www.march.afrc.af.mil
May 17, 2013
News Briefs All are invited to Lt. Col. Jim BULLARD’S RETIREMENT Ceremony Lt. Col. Jim Bullard, 452d AMW Operations Group Executive Officer and former 452d AMW Executive Officer, is retiring May 19, 2013, 1 p.m., at the March Field Air Museum, following a 28-year, Air Force career. All are welcome to attend. Dress is uniform of the day for military personnel and business casual for civilians. EXTENdED OPERATION FOR MARCH TAX CENTER The March ARB Volunteer Income Tax Assistance center will remain open for amending income tax returns and filing prior year returns. Appointments will be available on Tuesdays and Thursdays, with time slots from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. For more information or to schedule an appointment, please call 655-3659 or E-mail, marchvita@yahoo.com. REGISTRATION IS NOW OPEN FOR 2013 YELLOW RIBBON EVENTS The events will provide programs, resources, referrals and services to minimize stress on families during all phases of deployment. The following upcoming events are now
open for registration: • Daytona Beach, Fla., June 21 to 23 (register by June 1) • Orlando Fla., July 19 to 21 (registration opening soon) For more information, contact Senior Master Sgt. Jo Carrillo at 951-655-2571 or E-mail josephine.carrillo@us.af.mil.
AUG. 12 to 16 SEPT. 9 to 13 OCT. 7 to 11 NOV. 4 to 8 DEC. 9 to 13 Reservists will not be reimbursed for travel or per diem. To make reservations, call 310-6535428.
GET YOUR RECREATION ON
SAFETY ADVISORY CONTINUED
RecOn is a new Air Force program operated by Outdoor Recreation, that offers free trips to Airmen who have deployed within the past year, including their immediate family members. The following trips have been scheduled: • May 31 - Jun. 2. Whitewater rafting (Kern River); Deadline May 17 For more information, contact Outdoor Recreation at 951-655-2816.
Drivers and pedestrians traveling near the Air Traffic Control Tower, Bldg. 1220, should proceed with caution due to the construction of the new tower. In addition, the gate entering the Flightline at Base Ops (F18) is now closed. All personnel needing access will still sign in at Base Ops, then enter the Flightline through the gate at Security Forces (Bldg. 470).
TRANSITION ASSISTANCE PROGRAM SLOTS AVAILABLE Los Angeles Air Force Base will conduct Fiscal Year 2013 TAP classes for interested military and family members. The following dates are available: JUNE 10 to 15 JULY 8 to 12
VOLUNTEER FIT TO FIGHTER’S NEEDED FOR MARATHON Lt. Col. Jason Ausdemore and the March Company Grade Officer Council are forming a team to run the upcoming San Diego Rock and Roll Marathon, June 2. The Knights of Heroes empowers children who have lost their fathers during military service by providing positive adult mentorship, character development and lasting friendships during their annual wilder-
ness adventure camp in Colorado. Military and civilian personnel and their families are welcome to join. For more details visit www.knightsofheroes. org or contact Lt. Col. Ausdemore at 951655-3703 or jason.ausdemore@us.af.mil. RUNNING TRACK OPERATING HOURS Until further notice, the fitness staff has designated the following hours of operation for the track: Summer months: 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. Winter months: 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Hours of operations were determined due to safety concerns. The track has not been equipped with proper lighting yet, which can cause hazard conditions for runners before or after daylight. Updated information will be provided after the completion of the track. 452D FM OFFERS DTS LAB Financial Management will conduct DTS computer labs every Unit Training Assembly, from 8 a.m. to 11 a.m. in Building 466. The lab is for any member who has DTS issues or requires assistance with completing their voucher. For more information, contact John Florence at 951655-5260 or E-mail john.florence@us.af.mil.