Andrews 040315

BASE NEWS All-female flight crew flies for Women’s History Month, Page 2

DCMILITARY.COM

AIR FORCE NEWS

COMMUNITY

Air Force Home Makeover: JBA Edition, Page 3

AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION OF COMPRINT MILITARY PUBLICATIONS AT JOINT BASE ANDREWS, MD.

Andrews named Air Force Installation Excellence Award winner maintaining a cost-conscious culture,” Hoagland said. “This award is a testament to the Air Force officials an- seamless integration of our nounced Joint Base Andrews, six mission partners and more Maryland as the 2015 Air than 80 tenant units here on Force Installation Excellence (Joint Base Andrews). We’re thankful for their partnerAward winner March 25.

Andrews was named as one ship and the support of the of two finalists in November local community. We will con2014, and competed at the tinue to collaborate in order Air Force level against Royal to ensure America’s Airfield Air Force Lakenheath, United executes its multiple no-fail Kingdom. A selection board missions with the highest consisting of four colonels standard of excellence.”

Established by the Presivisited both bases in January 2015, before making their dent of the United States in final recommendation to the 1984, the Commander-inSecretary of the Air Force and Chief ’s Annual Award for Chief of Staff of the Air Force. Installation Excellence is to In addition to being named recognize the outstanding efthe Air Force’s best instal- forts of people who operate lation, Andrews will receive and maintain Department of $700,000 to invest in quality- Defense installations and effectively use their resources of-life projects on base.

Col. Brad Hoagland, the to support the mission. This commander of the 11th Wing, award encourages commandsaid it is an honor for Joint ers to create an environment Base Andrews to be recognized promoting innovative and creative ways of enhancing basefor this prestigious award.

“We want to make sure level services, facilities and that we are providing the best quality of life. quality of life for our installations’ 17,000 members while see AWARD, page 4 SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Two chances to volunteer to aid in emergency preparedness On April 9, from 9 am to 1 p.m., the Center for Health and Homeland Security is asking for volunteers for a fullscale exercise for the Prince George’s County Health Department Cities Readiness Initiative. This exercise will simulate a public health emergency; the volunteers will be asked to go through a mass dispensing site and pick up mock medication.

The event will be held at Largo High School in Upper Marlboro. No experience or special skills are required; and all ages are welcome. Middle and high school students can earn service learning hours.

Lunch also will be provided.

You are asked to register

by April 7. For more information, visit http://www.mdchhs.

com/volunteer-registrationapril-9-2015-pg-county-openpod-full-scale/; or email HDEmergencypreparedness@co.pg. md.us On April 19, the Washington Metropolitan Area Transit Authority (WMATA) is asking for volunteers as it conducts a series of exercises designed to address critical components of the National Capital Region Transportation network at the Greenbelt Metro Station in Greenbelt from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Registration for this exercise will close on April 13.

For more information, visit https://www.eventbrite.com/e/ wmata-ncr-full-scale-exerciseregistration-16216817939.

New Horizons Supported Services begins legacy of recycling, Page 6

FRIDAY, APRIL 3, 2015 | VOL. 4 NO. 13

AKAs say no to teen dating violence

PHOTO/BOBBY JONES

Sheriff Melvin C. High, Sheriff, Prince George’s County, center, joins participants during the 3rd Annual Teen Dating Violence Awareness Walk near the Tucker Road Community Center in Ft. Washington March 28.

BY BOBBY JONES STAFF PHOTOJOURNALIST

On a bitterly cold spring morning, more than 100 Prince George’s County concerned

citizens gathered for the Third Annual Teen Dating Violence Awareness Walk at Tucker Road Community Center in Ft. Washington March 28.

Hosted by Alpha Kappa Al-

pha Sorority Inc., Upsilon Tau Omega Chapter, the purpose of the event was to bring a heightened awareness to teen dating violence.

see DATING, page 4

Telling the future with 100 percent accuracy

BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS PHILIP BRYANT

11TH WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

You can plan a picnic with other’s forecasts, but you can’t do flight operations, according to Capt. Kurtis Schubeck, 89th Operational Support Squadron/ Operational Weather Squadron flight commander.

Flight operations are hardly a picnic, but the 89 OSS/OSW ensured mission readiness by correctly forecasting eightout-of-eight winter weather systems that came through the

see WEATHER, page 7

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO/AIRMAN 1ST CLASS PHILIP BRYANT

The 89th Operational Support Squadron/Operational Weather Squadron poses for a photo after being recognized and coined by the Col. Brad Hoagland, JBA/11th Wing commander, at the weather flight.

Andrews Gazette

2

Hot tickets around town

Friday, April 3, 2015

ALL-FEMALE FLIGHT CREW FLIES FOR WOMEN’S HISTORY MONTH

April 3

US Navy Concert Band 7:30 -9 p.m.

Bowie Center for the Performing Arts,15200 Annapolis Road, Bowie The Navy Concert Band will perform in the main hall. Traditional standards, patriot & sea songs as well as a salute to veterans will be featured. FREE 301-805-6887 or visitwww.bowiecenter.org.

Through April 12

Six Flags America Opening Day & Spring Break 13710 Central Ave., Bowie Get ready to zoom into spring on the most heartracing, thrill-inducing speed coasters in the world, like the ROAR and Apocalypse. Then take a wild twirl through the warm breeze on the BATWING or Mind Eraser. Soar high on the Flying Carousel or test your endurance on Zydeco Zinger. Treat the little ones to the time of their lives on all of their favorite kids’ rides. Visit www.sixflags.com/america

April 4

Aqua Egg Hunt at Theresa Banks Aquatic Center 11 a.m.-Noon 8615 McClain Ave., Glenarden Fun egg hunt, where children will hunt and dive for eggs in the water! A mesh bag will be provided to collect eggs in, however you may bring your own bag or waterproof plastic basket, preferably with holes. Admission includes: themed-craft/activity, a goodie treat bag, and general swim for the dayChildren (5 & under) in the water must be within arm’s reach and directly supervised by a responsible adult in appropriate swim attire. Children (11 & under) must be accompanied by an adult, who is responsible for their supervision at poolside.

April 4

Jelly Bean Jam 1-4 p.m.

Upper Marlboro Community Center, 5400 Marlboro Race Track Road, Upper Marlboro Get ready for the Jelly Bean Jam, where children will enjoy a day filled with games, egg hunts, prizes and DJ. Call 301-627-2828 for more information.

April 6

Hip-Pity Hop Bunny Bash Noon-3 p.m.

Cosca Regional Park,11000 Thrift Road,Clinton Celebrate Easter with games, entertainment and more fun. Prizes will be awarded to winner of the golden egg and the person who collects the most eggs. Ages 12 and under. Call 301-749-4160 or visitwww.pgparks.com.

COMPRINT MILITARY PUBLICATIONS Andrews Gazette is published by Comprint Military Publications, 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg, Md., a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force or any branch of the United States military.

The appearance of advertising in these publications, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or the products and services advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, martial status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non merit factor of the purchases, user or patron.

Maxine Minar, president mminar@dcmilitary.com John Rives, publisher

jrives@dcmilitary.com

Deirdre Parry, page design dparry@gazette.net Leslie Smith, editor lsmith@dcmilitary.com Bobby Jones, photographer bjones@dcmilitary.com

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTOS/SENIOR AIRMAN MARIAH HADDENHAM

1st Lt. Brittny Barney, 1st Helicopter Squadron pilot, straps into a UH-1N Huey helicopter for a training exercise. The squadron is responsible for distinguished visitor airlifts throughout the National Capital Region. The flight consisted of low-altitude training, with one helicopter crew made up of all females in honor of Women’s History Month.

Lt. Col. Anne-Marie Contreras, 1st Helicopter Squadron pilot, pulls her door closed on a UH-1N Huey helicopter in preparation for a training flight.

There are approximately 100 pilots in the squadron with seven or fewer being female.

Lt. Col. AnneMarie Contreras, 1st Helicopter Squadron pilot, displays a “Rosie the Riveter” patch on her helmet March 31 during a training exercise on Joint Base Andrews.

Retiree corner Doolittle Raiders Honored showed Americans that the war the 13-year war. The current phase

The Doolittle Tokyo Raiders will be awarded a Congressional Gold Medal on April 15, by leaders of the House of Representatives and Senate. The highest civilian honor that Congress can bestow will be presented to the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force by retired Lt. Col. Richard E. Cole on the 73rd anniversary of the raid, April 18.

Three of the original 80 Raiders survive: Colonel Cole, SSgt. David J. Thatcher and retired Lt. Col. Robert L. Hite. On April 18, 1942, 16 B-25s took off from the USS Hornet carrier to bomb Japan. The crew members, led by Lt. Col. James H. Doolittle, came to be known as the Doolittle Tokyo Raiders. While the attack itself caused little damage to Japanese industry, the psychological impact on the Japanese military and the American public was immense. It forced the Japanese military to increase protection of the home islands and

could be won.

Same Sex Benefits

Veterans Affairs is providing guidance to same-sex married couples on the benefits and services to which they are entitled under current laws and regulations. The Supreme Court overturned that section of the Defense of Marriage Act which governed the definitions of “marriage” and “spouse” for federal agencies. VA is processing claims involving same-sex marriages. A new website provides information to help veterans and beneficiaries understand the eligibility requirements. For more information, go to www.va.gov/opa/marriage or call 1 800-827-1000.

Medal eligibility extended

The Pentagon has extended the Afghanistan Campaign Medal for military members currently serving there, despite the official end of

of the Afghanistan War is a qualifying operation for the award. Operation Enduring Freedom technically ended on December 31. The new mission does not involve U.S. troops in direct combat operations and instead limits their mission to advising and assisting the Afghan forces and potentially targeted counterterrorism missions. About 10,000 U.S. troops are in Afghanistan.

The military mission is scheduled to end by December 2016. Service members should contact their military departments for additional information on the medal.

The Retiree Activities Office is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Visit the office in Building 1604 at California and Colorado Avenues or call 301 9812726. Call before your visit to ensure a volunteer is on duty. The RAO has a website at www.andrews.af.mil.

Andrews Gazette

Friday, April 3, 2015

3

Air Force Home Makeover: JBA Edition

Bethesda.

At birth, Rebekah was 11TH WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS admitted to the neonatal intensive care unit where Recently, more than 45 she stayed for one-and-aJoint Base Andrews vol- half months. unteers came together Two weeks after his to help an 89th Commu- daughter’s birth, Mateo nications Squadron Air- had to return to German renovate his fami- many to work on Exceply’s house to meet Ameri- tional Family Member cans with Disabilities Act Program reassignment standards. and out processing. MilTech. Sgt. Melvin Ma- dred stayed at the Fisher teo, 89 CS Government House stateside.

Network Operations Once Rebekah was Center crew chief, said released from the hospihe was extremely grate- tal, they moved to Joint ful people were so willing Base Andrews Fisher to help him during a dif- House until Mateo was ficult time for his family. reunited with his family.

After 13 years of mar- The staff of JBA Fisher riage, while stationed at House allowed them to Ramstein Air Base, Ger- extend their stay until many, Mateo and his wife they could move into base found out they were preg- housing. nant.

“We didn’t have fam“At 21 weeks, dur- ily in the area. We had a ing the ultrasound, sev- family friend that we met eral abnormalities were in our church in Germany found,” he said. “The doc- who became like our imtor gave us an option to mediate family,” Mildred terminate the pregnan- said. “My sister lives in cy, but it is against our New York but would visit Catholic-Christian be- on the weekends.” liefs. If the baby wanted Mildred also said that to fight for a chance at staying at the Fisher life, we would allow it.”

House, both on Bethesda Due to the complica- and JBA, was a blesstions of Mildred’s preg- ing to her family. The nancy, in January 2012, families there provided the couple was medically each other moral support evacuated to Walter Reed through difficult times.

National Military Medi“My husband’s gaincal Center in Bethesda, ing-unit leadership met Maryland.

Rebekah and I before “Rebekah n e e d e d they met him. His comsurgical procedures but mander’s family met me Landstuhl Regional Med- and help me move from ical Center [in Germany] Bethesda to Andrews,” didn’t have the pediatric Mildred said. “Rebekah surgical capabilities,” had a lot of doctor’s apMildred said. pointments and someone Upon arrival to the from the squadron would U.S., the family stayed drive us to and from the at the Fisher House in hospital.”

BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS RYAN J. SONNIER

Joint Base Andrews volunteers gather equipment in preparation for home renovations.

Two and a half years later, in October 2014, Mateo and his family purchased a home closer to Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, where Rebekah receives her medical care.

“We were looking for a very specific house, for Rebekah’s situation. We needed a one-story house with an attached garage that had direct access to the interior,” he said.

“The holidays were coming up and she was about to have a major surgery, so I decided to start renovating.”

Space, he said, was the biggest concern. Everything, Rebekah needed a bigger bedroom, closet, an ADA bathroom and wider hallways. They need to be able to move Rebekah around the house with her mobility equipment without difficulty.

“My commander and First Sergeant mentioned my situation to a Chaplain, who then helped organize volunteers to assist me with my project,” he said. “The money I have saved in labor alone is more than

Volunteers hang dry wall at a home.

$20,000, and I can’t begin to put an amount on the time saved.”

Lt. Col. Vincent Lau, 89 CS commander, stated that the term “Air Force Family” is often used, but it is instances like these that remind us of the truth behind that motto.

“I think it is absolutely fantastic that the Air Force is full of people like those who have come out to help the family,” Lau said.

Mateo is no stranger to volunteer work himself, he has volunteered for the Fisher House,

Davies Concert Series presents

Brian Quenton Thorne, tenor & Francis Conlon, piano Sunday, April 12 at 6:30 PM Davies Memorial Unitarian Universalist Church, Camp Springs, Maryland

Performing standard and contemporary pop classics from Gershwin to Billy Joel as well as musical theater classics and modern songs Pre-concert performance by student artists Abigail Gertsman, violin and Lydia Kivrak, piano:

The Swan by Saint Saens

Tickets are $15 for adults $5 for 0-18.

For information call 301.638.2236 or visit www.dmuuc.org

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U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTOS/AIRMAN 1ST CLASS RYAN J. SONNIER

Senior Airman Tyler Ketelhut, an 89th Communications Squadron Power Pro technician, scrapes the ceiling of a home Jan. 29 in Bowie. Members gathered to help fix Tech. Sgt. Melvin Mateo’s home for his special-needs daughter. Mateo is an 89th Communications Squadron Government Network Operations Center crew chief.

Habitat for Humanity and other organizations.

“It has been an amazing, great blessing to be on the receiving end of this volunteer work, and a humbling experience,” Mateo said as he fought back tears. “I think God knew my wife and I had

what it takes to care for our daughter.”

They both rely on their faith to guide them on their journey.

“I believe God is with us; his grace sustains us and he sends his people along the way to help us out,” Mildred added.

Andrews Gazette

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DATING, from page 1 “This is an important event for us to support today. Yes, it’s cold; but what you’re doing is lighting a fire under something that must be changed in our community – and that’s dating violence,” said Dr. Tricia Bent-Goodley, Aspiring Leader Committee Member Program Facilitator.

Daneaka Spear, President Upsilon Tau Omega Chapter Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc., thanked the participants for supporting the annual event.

“We need to make sure our that our community and our young children know that it’s not okay for somebody to sexually, mentally or physically harm you, no matter what their relationship is to them,” said Spear.

Among the guest speakers were Sheriff Melvin C. High, Prince George’s County; and Cheri Gardner, Principal Deputy State’s Attorney.

“I have a passion for the general safety of our community, specifically our most vulnerable citizens. We find that women, our teens and younger people are very vulnerable,” said Sheriff High, during his keynote address to the participants.

“So this event is good work to ensure our whole community collaborates about making this a safe place for our young people to grow up to be the real future of our community; and to say that we won’t tolerate domestic violence,” said High.

“Our goal and the goal of AKA, as well as agencies throughout our county are to get to zero incidents in domestic violence.”

Cheri Gardner, Principal Deputy State’s Attorney, addressed the participants on behalf of Angela D. Also-

brooks, State’s Attorney.

“As many of the constituents know, Ms. Alsobrooks was one of the first domestic violence attorneys in the State’s Attorney’s office. It’s always been one of her passions and in a month she’s tentatively going to be announcing the creation of a new unit, called the Family Violence Unit,” said Gardner.

“The FVU is currently one of the Assistant State’s Attorney’s units that are involved in the investigation of sexual assault and child abuse cases.

We’re also going to be merging with the domestic violence unit, as well, to better service the needs of the citizens of Prince George’s county,” Gardner said.

High noted the statics are climbing.

“But that’s a good thing, because that means that people are no longer silent about it. They are willing to report these incidents, so that we and they can do something about it,” said High.

“The way we’ll get to zero tolerance is when we get to full reporting and they’re not ashamed to report it and that they need help.”

“This is our third year hosting this event,” said Tia Belton, Vice President and program chairman, Upsilon Tau Omega Chapter Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority Inc. “The two years we did it under the program Emerging Young Leaders, which is geared toward middle school young ladies, and helping them grow and develop in their social, leadership and motivational skills. We continued this program and renamed it Aspiring Young Leaders, geared toward the same mission.

“This walk is now becoming a tradition for our chapter,” said Belton.

For more news from other bases around the Washington, D.C. area,

visit www.dcmilitary.com.

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Friday, April 3, 2015

Security Forces Police Blotter The Security Forces Blotter is intended to keep members of the Joint Base Andrews Community informed and aware of the crimes and offenses that occur throughout the base each week. Ifyou have any information that may help Security Forces solve a crime or prevent a criminal act, please contact BDOC (Base Defense Operations Center) at 301-981-2001, CRIME STOP LINE 981-2677 (COPS, or the investigations section at 301-9815656).

March 25 at 3:54 p.m.: Security Forces responded to a shoplifting at the Main Exchange. An individual attempted to walk out of the Main Exchange without rendering payment for nail polish and brown eyeliner. The individual was detained and charged accordingly.

March 25 at 3:54 p.m.: Security Forces responded to a shoplifting at the Main Exchange. An individual attempted to walk out of the Main Exchange without rendering payment for one Blue Ray DVD and four video games. The individual was detained and charged accordingly.

March 26 at 12:47 a.m.: At the Main Gate, Security Forces stopped an individual attempting to bring an illegal substance on base. The individual was detained, charged accordingly and banned from the installation.

March 28 at 12:18 p.m.: Secu-

rity Forces received an anonymous tip through the “LiveSafe” app reporting a dead rabbit on the side of the road. Patrols responded along with entomology and removed the animal from the road.

March 30 at 1:50 a.m.: Security Forces responded to a minor vehicle accident involving a GOV. The operator was driving on South Perimeter when a deer ran in front of the vehicle, causing the operator to strike the deer. Damages consisted of minor dents to the driver’s side quarter panel. No injuries were sustained.

As A Reminder

There has been an increase in attempts to enter the installation with a controlled dangerous substance in the vehicle. All vehicles entering the Installation are subject to be searched, anyone caught attempting to bring controlled dangerous substances on the Installation will be charged and may lose their base privileges.

To prevent a deer accident, be aware of your surroundings and watch for pedestrians and wildlife crossing the street.

Each year it has been estimated that deer cause 1.5 million car accidents.

For reporting any emergencies or nonemergencies please feel free to utilize the “LiveSafe” app. “LiveSafe” is an anonymous reporting app that can be downloaded for free on your smart device.

No Heat/No Cool - HVAC Changeover The 11th Civil Engineer Squadron will initiate an installation-wide “No Heat/ No Cool” period to assist us in switching heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) units from heating to cooling modes. The start date for this period will be Apr 15, 2015 with an anticipated completion date of May 16, 2015. During this “No Heat/No Cool” period, HVAC technicians will complete all equipment servicing and startup preparations; additionally, based on last year’s data, Team Andrews will be able to conserve an estimated 900,000 KWH in electrical usage resulting in a savings of $72,000

AWARD, from page 1 In a March 4 letter, Secretary of the Air Force Deborah Lee James and Chief of Staff of the Air Force General Mark Welsh congratulated Joint Base Andrews and all Air Force bases for the hard work Airmen around the service accomplish every day.

“It is our privilege to recognize the outstanding accomplishments of the men and women who operate and maintain our Air Force installations,” the letter read. “We thank them for a job very well done.”

As the Air Force’s top installation, Andrews will compete for the Department of Defense’s 2015 Commander in Chief’s Installation Excellence Award.

The Air Force Installation Excellence Award team also named the 2015 Air Force Special Recognition nominees.

The special recognition category is a secretary of defense award, recognizing units, teams and individuals for exemplary achievement in support of installation excellence.

and 2,000 Dekatherm in natural gas usage resulting in a savings of $12,000 for a combined electric and natural gas total savings of $84,000 which could potentially be re-invested into base operations. During the downtime, only Mission Critical Facilities, Child Development Centers, Critical Server Rooms and Base Housing will be exempt. Patience and understanding from base residents while this is being accomplished will be greatly appreciated.

If you have any questions, please contact 11 CES Customer Service at 301981-5151.

The Air Force nominees are: 11th Civil Engineering Squadron 11th Force Support Squadron 11th Security Forces Squadron 11th Wing Command Post 11th Wing Inspector General Office 113th Aircraft Maintenance Team 811th Operations Support Squadron 89th Aircraft Maintenance Team Air Force Legal Operations Agency (AFLOA) Claims and Tort Litigation Division (JACC) Senior Airman Victor J. Abreu, 811th Security Forces Squadron Senior Airman Joshua S. Burch, 11th CES Staff Sgt. Journey E.L. Henderson, 11th SFS Senior Master Sgt. David J. Austin, 11th CES Capt. David W. Nugent, 811th SFS Cindy A. Kahahawai, 11th CES Michael E. Thomas, 11th FSS Anne T. Young, 11th FSS (The 11th Wing Public Affairs Office contributed to this story.)

Andrews Gazette

Friday, April 3, 2015

5

“Capital Guardians” protecting the nation’s skies D.C. Air Guard reaches historic milestone of 5,000 alert calls

a beautiful day out with not a cloud in the sky and I knew that was not an accident,” Valentine said.

“After the second plane hit, it felt like we stared at the screen for hours, but in reality it was only a few seconds. Everyone immediately began executing their part in getting the aircraft airborne.”

“That was the day that the ACA mission was born.

I was here when the first sortie took off for this emergency and I am here now almost 15 years later to witness us pass 5,000 alarm events.”

Similar to Valentine’s unforgettable alert experience in 2001, the 5,000th alert also marked a special event for 1st Lt. Jacob Zuberi, who joined Vargas to

COURTESY PHOTO

A 113th Wing F-16 Fighting Falcon flies over the skies of D.C. during a routine training mission at Joint Base Andrews.

BY MASTER SGT. BECKY VANSHUR

124TH FIGHTER WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

EDITOR’S NOTE: This article is the first of a twopart series on the D.C. Air National Guard’s Aerospace Control Alert mission.

The 113th Wing’s Aerospace Control Alert (ACA) Detachment reached a milestone of responding to 5,000 alert events, a historic first in the nation, March 21.

“We have had ‘Capital Guardians’ on point, vigilant and ready to do what is necessary to defend the nation and the National Capital Region,” said Lt. Col. John Vargas, commander of the 113th Wing’s ACA, which was created on Sept. 11, 2001 in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States. “As we approached this milestone of 5,000 events and with the region we protect here, our operational tempo is more than any other alert center in the country.”

The 113th Wing’s ACA mission includes aerospace control forces as part of the federal government’s efforts to protect U.S. airspace and respond to alert calls with around-theclock alert teams ready to launch F-16 Fighting Falcons and other aircraft at a moment’s notice for a rapid response to airborne threats and air emergencies. The D.C. Air National Guard’s F-16s and ready trained personnel are part of a multi-layered air defense system for the nation’s capital.

Here, the D.C. Air National Guard has four components to the immediate

local ACA team. Command post controllers listen for alerts and regularly communicate with higher headquarters. Secondly, the active duty component of the 11th Wing Security Forces provides security to the D.C. ANG’s ACA location and compound area.

The remaining two components of the ACA team are comprised of pilots and maintainers.

“To be able to stand out and stand alone in numbers comparatively, that is a testament to the individuals here - our commander, our pilots, our team,” said Master Sgt. Curtis Hills, maintenance alert team supervisor.

“That milestone is a first and you really cannot put it into words the impact that it does for the individuals here to achieve that. It is phenomenal to hit that milestone and for everyone here to be a part of that because it really is a team effort.”

Although the 113th Wing’s pilots, maintainers, and controllers drive the ACA mission 24/7, the entire D.C. Air National Guard works alongside their active duty counterparts in the 11th Wing to form a cohesive team that oversees operations, maintenance, mission and medical support.

“This truly is a total force effort,” said Brig.

Gen. George Degnon, 113th Wing commander.

“We are enabled by the hard work and efforts of many airmen working behind the scenes. A tremendous amount of coordination is continually being conducted between multiple agencies prior to us getting the call. Our pilots are highly trained and ready to go at a moment’s

AIR NATIONAL GUARD PHOTO/MASTER SGT. BECKY VANSHUR

Pilot Maj. Wyck Furcron, with the 121st Fighter Squadron, sprints to the F-16 Fighting Falcon aircraft, quickly donning his flight equipment in response to a real-world red alarm scramble March 14. The 113th Wing’s Aerospace Control Alert Detachment reached a milestone of responding to 5,000 alert events on March 21. The alert unit was created in response to the 9/11 terrorist attacks on the United States on Sept. 11, 2001.

notice.”

When the alarm sounds, there are no questions, no hesitation, and no debate.

Pilots and maintainers dash through the hallway and literally run to the aircraft bay and generate aircraft - all in a matter of minutes.

“Every day that we come down here to the alert facilities, we don’t come with the mindset that this is another day at the office,” said Vargas. “We arrive with the mindset that today is the day, the day that my actions are going to prevent an attack on our nation’s capital. Every second that we are able to save in our response is a second that we know could be the difference in mission success.”

The D.C. ANG’s ACA has been the most active alert detachment in the history of the Department of Defense, according to Col. W. Mark Valentine, 113th Operations Group commander. To understand the significance of the achievement, he explained the difference between the numbers of alert calls of the D.C. unit with those of other units from around the country.

“There are approximately 15 units total,” Valentine said. “If you add up all of their alert calls and

double that, that doesn’t come close to the amount of activity we have had.

This is a welcomed result of being next to the nation’s capital.”

After the ACA detachment was created on Sept.

11, 2001, specific flight rules were also established, including special restrictions around D.C. and regional icons. Aircraft and airmen were soon placed on a 24/7 status and ready to take whatever tactical actions necessary to defend the National Capital Region from any threat from that day forward.

“We have members who have been here since 9/11 who work and live in the D.C. area, and are able to leverage our experience and familiarity with the local public,” Degnon said.

Valentine remembers that day clearly. For him, this milestone is personal as Sept. 11, 2001 was his first day in the Air National Guard here at Joint Base Andrews. He was receiving a tour of his new work station when an intelligence officer announced that an aircraft had hit the World Trade Center.

“I will never forget the moment looking at that TV screen. The hair on the back of my neck stood up when I realized that it was

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respond to the alarm. Zuberi, the youngest missionready pilot in the unit, happened to be serving on his first alert shift.

“Having Lt. Zuberi on shift for the 5,000th mark sends a message that we will remain vigilant and ever ready,” Vargas said. “To date, the ‘Capital Guardians’ have had a great deal of success in the defense of the National Capital Region. We will treat our 5,001st event with the same intensity that we did for every event in the last 14 years and for years to come.”

For more coverage of this historic event, go to https://www.dvidshub.net/ video/395620/113th-wingaca-detachment-reachesmilestone.

Andrews Gazette

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Friday, April 3, 2015

New Horizons Supported Services begins legacy of recycling be able to hire folks right here in the county.”

County Fire Chief New Horizons SupportMarc S. Bashoor remied Services Inc. (NHSSI), nisced about how the a Maryland-based nonfire station served the profit organization, held Cheverly community well a ribbon cutting cerfor several years. emony to commemorate “It (the fire station) the grand opening of the was at one time the hub newly renovated facilities of activity, but as the in Cheverly, Mar. 27. community grew and the Formerly the Cheverly fire service grew, stations Fire Station, the repurwere repositioned, frankposed 110-square-foot faly it became obsolete,” cility was transformed insaid Bashoor. to a community business “We struggled for a enterprise. It will provide while to find a suitable jobs and employment for use for the facility and I approximately 60 indiappreciate County Execuviduals with intellectual tive Baker for bringing PHOTO/BOBBY JONES and developmental disthis option to the table for abilities who participate The official party cuts the ribbon to officially open the newly renovated facility in Cheverly March 27. us and the opportunity to in NHSSI’s supported repurpose a fire station to employment program and Manager, Prince George’s son that they will support from the Library of Con- “Having New Horizons still be of community serR3 Services at the social- County; Donna Hobbs, and serve throughout the gress to the FBI, to all come into this place has vice, and still be part of services agency.

President of the Board building. kinds of organizations. been a tremendous ben- the community. It’s someThe employees are of Directors; Charles R. “It’s a green day, be- We’re going to bring life efit to the county and to thing that I’m very proud scheduled to start their Hall, Vice President; and cause what’s going to be back into this vital build- Cheverly and we’re re- of.” new jobs in the mid to Peter F. Holden, NHSSI going on in this building ing which served the com- ally pleased with it,” said Holden explained the late April time frame. executive director, who will create jobs, it’ll help munity for so many years Baker. “I was here when ribbon cutting ceremony Among the invited kicked off the opening the environment, it’s go- as a fire station, will now it was just beginning and was purposely planned guests were Cheverly ceremony. ing to work with local serve as a community sen- now it’s ready to open. to coincide with National Mayor Michael Callahan; Holden labeled the businesses, industry and sor, a community-based We’re not only going to be Developmental AwarePrince George’s County event as “The celebration national companies,” said enterprise,” said Holden. providing jobs, but we’re ness Month’s observance Executive Rushern L. of the possibilities,” refer- Holden.

County Executive also going to be doing re- across the nation. “We Baker III; Betty Hager ring to the possibilities “We’re going to be Rushern L. Baker III cycling, and I understand Francis, Deputy County that exist for every per- working with everybody praised the new facility. that we’re also going to see RECYCLING, page 7

BY BOBBY JONES

STAFF PHOTOJOURNALIST

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RECYCLING, from page 6

WEATHER, from page 1

wanted to time it so we could talk about local disability awareness. People with disabilities have all the same rights and wishes as those that don’t have disabilities.

Such as jobs, education, housing, civil and legal rights and life style rights. We’re not just providing jobs, we’re advocating so that folks with disabilities are enabled with those rights and have opportunities that they didn’t have before.”

Holden spoke about their future plans of adding other employment opportunities for Wounded Warriors and veterans to work alongside the staff.

“They could help produce and keep up with the quantity of material than we plan to deal with, like the electronic recycling, secure document destruction and shredders. We have about 12 contracts with community businesses where we go and pick up their confidential documents, which we shred under very confidential situations,” Holden said.

The facility is also has a contract with the U.S. Geological Survey doing an entomology service, “We paint these little containers called ‘Bee Bowls,’ for the USGS and send them out all over the U.S. to help increase the bumble

National Capital Region.

“We couldn’t have done it without the crew that we have,” said Tech. Sgt. Robert Prato, 89 OSS/OSW weather flight chief.

“Everybody clicks. It’s like a family.”

The small weather flight, of approximately 12 Airmen, is a close-knit group of weather enthusiasts.

“A lot of them come in early and stay late,” said Tech. Sgt. Alfred Brooks, 89 OSS/OSW airfield services NCO In-Charge.

“There are times where I’ve received phone calls from people here when they are off saying, ‘Hey, the winds are such and such down in Alexandria right now’ or ‘this is what’s happening in La Plata.’ It’s something that everybody here enjoys and they enjoy it to a level where it’s not work anymore.”

These weather forecasters, in turn, were rewarded with a visit

by Col. Brad Hoagland, 11th Wing commander, and each received a coin for their forecasting excellence.

“We had several weather systems come through, some of which produced freezing rain and snow, and we were able to forecast an accurate beginning, ending and accumulation totals,” Brooks said.

With accuracy, the 89th weather family plays a vital role in the base’s overall mis-

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A group of NHSSI employees take a photo inside one of the computer room work stations.

bee population, pollination of plants, help improve crops and farming in the U.S. and oversea as well,” said Holden.

“The paint attracts bees and it helps with the survey. We have many more things in the pipeline coming down the road,” added Holden.

At conclusion of the rib-

bon cutting ceremony the new employees and audience members were led on a walkthrough tour.

To find out about services provided by New Horizons Supported Services Inc., contact Ron Vaughn, NHSSI deputy director at 240-882-2680 or visit www.nhssi.org.

sion by briefing 89 OSS and 11 WG leadership.

“There are two weather briefs given, one to the 89th and one to the 11th Wing, and with that information, closures, delays and decisions to stay open are made,” Schubeck said.

“If something happens and we get hail or freezing rain that can ruin anything on that airfield, we have to be ready,” Prato said. “We have to take everything seriously on a micro scale.”

Using technology, they read detailed micro scales of weather patterns and changes happening in the surrounding areas to give base leadership detailed information down to the minute.

While other weather services use models that generalize what a weather system might do over the course of a day.

“One hundred years ago, we would probably be burnt at the stake because they would have been like, ‘How are you able to tell the future?’ but now it’s expected of us,” Schubeck said.

“We have to be a lot more precise than any model, website or groundhog is.”

Clear, concise and consistent forecasting is their mantra.

“It’s not common for a weather flight to go eight-for-eight in correct weather forecasts,” Brooks said. “We did a lot of training before the season started with hands on scenarios, so when the winter season started, we felt prepared.”

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Friday, April 3, 2015