COMMENTARY What motivates you?, Page 2
dcmilitary.com
Air Force NEWS
SECURITY Security Blotter, Page 8
Reflecting on Veterans Day, Page 6
an independent publication of comprint military publications at Joint Base Andrews, Md.
Friday, November 20, 2015 | Vol. 4 No. 46
Hero Service Dogs provide comfort, care for veterans
Kids ship out to ‘Boot Camp’
U.S. Air Force photo/ Airman 1st Class J.D. Maidens/ Released
Attendees of Operation Basic Boot Camp stand at parade rest for their morning briefing on Joint Base Andrews Nov. 7. The event included physical training, a mock military in-processing station, basic drills and military knowledge classes, a survival class and capture the flag to help military children better understand and appreciate parental military service. By Airman 1st Class J.D. Maidens 11th Wing Public Affairs
A service dog brings a laundry basket to a Hero Dogs Inc. trainer during a series of demonstrations performed at a “Veterans and Service Dogs: An Information Session” event held at the Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza Nov. 14.
The Joint Base Andrews’ Operation Basic Boot Camp, an event designed to help military children better understand and appreciate parental military service, was held on JBA Nov. 7. Approximately 55 kids took part in a day mimicking their parent’s military life. “We wanted to give back to the community and wanted to show the kids
see Dogs, page 5
see Boot Camp, page 4
Bobby Jones
Opening your home, heart to adoption By Leslie C. Smith Staff writer
As the holidays approach, many are anticipating the warmth found not only in a home but of the love of family. Perhaps it finds you asking if there is room in your home and heart. National Adoption Month provides an opportunity to learn what adoption can mean not only to a child but also to you. Adopt US Kids (www.adoptuskids. org) is a project of the U.S. Government and is funded through a grant and operates as a cooperative agree-
ment with the children’s bureau which is responsible for the care of children that have been abused and neglected. Since 2002, the goal of the project has been two-fold. The first goal is to raise public awareness of the need for adoptive families along with foster families for children in the U.S. foster care system. Also the organization provides tools and technical assistance to states that have custody of children in foster care to help them improve their programs to recruit families. Every year for the last 11 years the campaign has focused on different seg-
ments of the adoption population most in need of adoption; and this year the focus is on the 15- 18 age group in foster care. According to Kathy Ledesma, National Project Director for AdoptUSKids, there are currently 415,000 children in foster care in the U.S.; and, of those, 108,000 will never go home to their families and they need to be adopted. “About 15 percent of them are between the ages of 15 and 18. They are over-represented in the system because it takes longer to find families
for them,” Ledesma added. Taking on a teenager can seem daunting to some but there are situations where it’s ideal. “We know from operating the national adoption photo listing website we have the children most in need of national recruitment we know that families that end up adopting these older youth are usually older themselves – usually ranging from their older 40s into their 60s. “Empty nesters tend to adopt teen-
see adoption, page 10
Andrews Gazette
2
Friday, November 20, 2015
Hot tickets Commentary What motivates you? around town November 20 Take Flight 8-11 pm College Park Aviation Museum, 1985 Cpl. Frank Scott Dr., College Park After-hours access to the museum to peruse the latest exhibition The Plane of Tomorrow, Today!, pose for photos and fly your best paper airplane. Enjoy samples from Union Craft Brewing. ($) Call 301-864-6029 or visit www.collegeparkaviationmuseum.com November 20-24 Don Giovanni Fri, Mon, Tues 7:30, Sunday 3 Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, University of Maryland, 3800 Clarice Smith Performing Arts Center, University, College Park Part comedy, part tragedy. General Public: Regular: $25, Student: $10 Call Ticket Office: 301.405. ARTS (2787) or visit http://claricesmithcenter.umd. edu/ November 21 Needle and Thread Tea 1:30 pm Montpelier Mansion, 9650 Muirkirk Rd., Laurel Celebrate the 20th anniversary of Needleart with a tea. ($) Call 301-377-7817 or visit www.history.pgparks.com November 21-January 3 Christmas on The Potomac & Ice Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center, 201 Waterfront St. , National Harbor More than two million twinkling lights, nightly snowfall and dancing fountains. This year ICE! returns with a new theme and features Santa Claus is Comin’ to Town! Special bonus area, The Frostbite Factory, a LIVE ice carving zone. as well as a Gingerbread Decorating Corner, The Elf on the Shelf, Scavenger Hunt and much more.($) Call 301-9654000 or visit www.christmasonthepotomac.com. November 22 Riversdale Chamber Music Society 2:30 pm Riversdale House Museum, 4811 Riverdale Rd., Riverdale Park Enjoy music in the mansion, and then meet the artists at a reception after the performance. FREE Call 301-864-0420 or visit www.history.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
Matthew Getz, page design mgetz@somdnews.com Leslie Smith, editor lsmith@dcmilitary.com Bobby Jones, photographer bjones@dcmilitary.com
By Col. Kirsten Benford
71st Medical Group commander
Motivation is an idea that is used to explain behavior. It is the reason for people’s actions, desires and needs. What motivates you? Is it a pay raise, promotion, family or friends? When I applied for an ROTC scholarship back in the early 1980s, my motivation was monetary. I needed money for college. Many of us join the military for monetary reasons. Others join for travel, adventure and to see the world. Occasionally, we need to reflect and reevaluate our motives for being in the total force. What is curious to me is the number of people who stay in the military beyond their original commitment when they seem to have lost their initial motivation, enthusiasm and zeal.
I entered the Air Force with a three-year commitment back in 1992. I stayed in the Air Force because I appreciated the more level playing field and opportunities for growth and development. I have thoroughly enjoyed each job and “bloomed where I was planted.” It is hard to stay motivated when you don’t get assigned the career field or base that you really wanted. That being said, it helps to keep a positive attitude and believe that things happen for a reason. We all can bring something to the fight if we stay motivated “in spite of ” our temporary circumstances. We need to remind ourselves of the choice we made to be part of the total force and get excited about the fact that we can still serve. Motivation, enthusiasm and a positive attitude are just as con-
tagious as negativity. They help us push through trials, unmet expectations, undesired jobs and other disappointments. When I walked around the 71st Medical Group when I first arrived a few months ago, I couldn’t tell those happy to be here from those simply riding out their assignment. Everyone appeared motivated and enthusiastic about the role they were playing. I fed off that enthusiasm and motivation and wanted to be a better leader and help each of my team members succeed. I was ecstatic when I was first assigned to Vance. Then I “caught” the medical group enthusiasm fever and was motivated to keep up with the team. Now I am “committed to excellence,” and want everyone I come in contact with to catch the fever as well.
Retiree Corner Gate Scanners The Defense Biometric Identification System uses scanning devices to manage access at most DoD installations. It verifies access privileges through the Defense Enrollment Eligibility Reporting System. Guards scanning ID cards are provided detailed information about the card holder, including a photograph taken when the card was issued. The system crosschecks information with the National Crime Information Center every 24 hours to determine if there are any warrants. More than 5 million people are in the system. Some 4,000 warrants and 9,000 suspended driving privileges have been recorded. Although the expiration date on the front of the retiree ID card reads “INDEF,” an expiration date on the back of the card coincides with the retiree’s 65th birthday when they are required to obtain a new ID card. Deers and Taxes Registration in the Defense
Enrollment Eligibility System provides information for you to receive military benefits. Not adding family members to DEERS can affect their access to health care and income tax reporting. On the 2014 federal tax form, you reported minimum essential health care coverage (MEC) for your family. In filing your 2015 tax return, DoD will report health care coverage of its service member and their dependents to the Internal Revenue Service to determine MEC required by the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act. For tax purposes, individuals are identified by their Social Security Numbers. You should confirm that SSNs are correct in DEERS. Those who do not meet the MEC requirement will be required to pay a fee for the number of months each family member did not have coverage. DoD suggests that uniformed service members, retirees and annuitants receive IRS forms electronically through my Pay.
Elks Lend a Hand Veterans Affairs is strengthening community and non-profit partnerships to better serve veterans. The Benevolent and Protective Order of Elks has committed $4 million over a 4-year period to help end veteran homelessness. Elks members work with VA staffs on pilot programs in Washington, Chicago and New York City. The organization urges its 800,000 members to support homeless veterans in other communities. Some 1,300 Elks members volunteered more than 117,000 hours of service at VA facilities this year. The Retiree Activities Office is open 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Friday. Please consider joining the volunteer staff. Visit the office in Building 1604 at California and Colorado Avenues or call 301 981-2726. Call to ensure a volunteer is on duty. The RAO website is www.andrews. af.mil.
For more news from other bases around the Washington, D.C. area,
visit www.dcmilitary.com.
Andrews Gazette
Friday, November 20, 2015
3
JBA, JBAB Airmen participate in jointservice Veterans Day celebration Airmen interact with students, answer questions about career in military By Bobby Jones
Staff Photojournalist
As part of the 11th Wings Public Affairs Speakers Bureau Program, a group of Airmen from Joint Base Andrews and Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling, Washington, D.C., participated in a Veterans Day Celebration at Malcolm Elementary School in Waldorf Nov. 10. The purpose was to give students an overview of opportunities available to them in the military and answer questions about their specific career assignments. Several other Joint service members, active, reserve and retired from the Navy, Marines and Army from local commands were welcomed to answer questions from the young inquisitive minds during the day-long event. The military members came from a variety of occupational backgrounds, including aircraft crewmember, administrative, infantry dog handlers, military police, radio intelligence, chaplain assistants, Navy Yeomen, submariner, linguist and an Air Force musician. Although he was no stranger to volunteerism, Senior Airman DeMario Jones a 459th Air Refueling Wing Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology craftsman was excited about representing the Air Force before the
Bobby Jones
Retired Marine Capt. Willie Woods, a WWII veteran, displays his Congressional Gold Medal while sharing his life story as one of the first African-American Marines in the Marine Corps while assigned to Montford Point Camp, New River, N.C. during a Veterans Day Celebration held at Malcolm Elementary School in Waldorf Nov. 10.
Bobby Jones
Senior Airman DeMario Jones a 459th Air Refueling Wing Aerospace Ground Equipment Technology craftsman from Joint Base Andrews gives students an overview of his career field and life in the Air Force during a military Veterans Day Celebration held at Malcolm Elementary School in Waldorf Nov. 10.
young students. “I’ve actually done three events similar to this one, but this one I really couldn’t bring props from my career field, like a generator, because the equipment is trailer-mounted on the flight line,” said Jones, a veteran of nearly five years. “It’s really fun to see what the kids have on their minds as far as how they think the military is. Each time it’s never the same,” said Jones. During his presentation the kids asked questions about everything from did he ever fly planes to how to wear a uniform. Jones told the students, “just like you have rules to follow here at school, Airmen follow Air Force regulations.” Bill Condo, a Malcolm science teacher, challenged Jones to incorporate science into his presentation to kids. “The kids tend to think of scientists as people who walk in with white lab coats on, wearing glasses and a pocket calculator,” said Condo, 13 years at the school. Jones assured the teacher it would be easy to illustrate the science used in his job. “I deal with different chemicals – my career field also deals with hydraulics, pneumatics, heating and cooling, mechanical and electrical; some of everything is included.” At the conclusion of his presentation, two male students lagged behind to ask a few more hurried questions and then hugged Jones and thanked him for his service. “I was not expecting that,” said Jones, gearing up for
his next group of students to come into the classroom. All presenters met the challenge of telling their military branch story as a group kids rotated through each classroom for 20-minute sessions. Tech. Sgt Michael Marshall, 779th Medical Group Biomedical Equipment Technician was handling the influx of students projecting rapid-fire questions with ease, due to his training as a technical school instructor. “This is actually my first career day event,” said the 16-year veteran. “So far it’s been pretty enjoyable. This is something that I would expose my troops to,” said Marshall. During Marshall’s presentation he explained to the students the importance of how performing his job right could mean the difference between life and death for a patient. “Our job is to run tests on and service equipment that is used to determine a patient’s health status. They depend on us to do our jobs right the first time.” “The Air Force has every occupation you can think of,” said Marshall, putting on his recruiter hat inviting the students to think of a career they would like to follow in the Air Force. “You can be a doctor a nurse, or an aircraft mechanic.” After a young girl expressed a love of dogs, “You can be a military dog handler,” assured Marshall. One of the more celebrated and seasoned veterans participating was retired Marine Capt. Willie Woods, a WWII Congressional Gold Medal re-
cipient, who shared his life story as one of the first African-American Marines in the Marine Corps while assigned to Montford Point Camp, New River, N.C. during basic training from 1942 to 1949. The native Washingtonian was presented the medal during a ceremony held at the Emancipation Hall of the Capitol Visitor’s Center on Capitol Hill in Washington, DC., June 27, 2012. “This is the first time I’ve talked to a group this young,” said Woods, an 88-year old veteran, who kept the children spellbound while giving the youngsters and school teachers a firsthand account of what life was like as a Black Marine during one of the most segregated times in America’s history. “What I’m trying to do is educate them and fill in a gap in history that was left out.” Woods was assigned to the Montford Point Marines who were recognized for being the nation’s first African-American Marines. Woods displayed his Congressional Gold Medal to the students telling them I don’t feel any malice against those who were prejudice against me. It made me stronger and who I am today.” He concluded “I’m proud to have this award… And I don’t want you to touch it,” said Woods, to an amused audience. At the conclusion of the presentations, the school recognized each member and presented them with a certificate of appreciation for their participation in the celebration and their military service.
Andrews Gazette
4
Friday, November 20, 2015
Warrior CARE Event held at JBA By Senior Airman Dylan Nuckolls 11th Wing Public Affairs
Opening ceremonies for the Northeast Region Warrior CARE Event took place at Joint Base Andrews Nov. 16. More than 75 wounded, ill or injured service members from different branches of the military arrived to take part in the week-long event as part of Warrior CARE Month. “Warrior CARE Month is an important DOD-wide effort to increase awareness, programs and resources available to wounded, ill and injured service mem-
bers, their families and those who support them,” said Brig. Gen. Lenny J. Richoux, Air Force Services director. “This year’s theme is ‘Show of Strength.’” The Warrior CARE Event offers participants caregiver support and recovering airman mentorship training and adaptive and rehabilitative sports training. CARE stands for: C — Caregiver Support Program; A — Adaptive & Rehabilitative Sports Program; R — Recovering Airmen Mentorship Program; E — Employment & Career Readiness Program. “At the end of the day, your service still continues,
your country still needs you to serve, your family still needs you to serve and this is that opportunity,” said Bob Lujano, Paralympic athlete and guest speaker. “Participating in an adaptive sport gives any person, whatever type of ability, an opportunity to improve his or her life, mindset and body.” The event also provides employment and career readiness guidance along with music and art therapy. For more information about Warrior CARE, visit: http://warriorcare.dodlive.mil/
boot camp, from page 1 what it’s like to be in their parent’s shoes,” said Senior Master Sgt. Herman Lett, 11th Logistics Readiness Squadron vehicle fleet manager. The day included physical training, a mock military in-processing station, basic drills and military knowledge classes, a survival class and capture the flag. “The program aims to educate kids about military life and bring kids living in similar situations together,” said Alexandra Bitonti, USO program specialist. “The partnership between JBA and the USO has been fantastic.” The event was staffed by volunteering service members. “It’s been a lot of fun,” said Azlynn Mims, daughter of Captain Raymond Mims from the 11th Wing, Wing Staff Agency. “I don’t have a favorite part, because it’s all my favorite.”
U.S. Air Force photo/ Airman 1st Class J.D. Maidens/ Released
Attendees of Operation Basic Boot Camp stand at attention and learn fundamentals of basic military drill on Joint Base Andrews Nov. 7.
U.S. Air Force photo/ Airman 1st Class J.D. Maidens/ Released
Azlynn Mims and Adrian Hernandez, military children, race other kids during Operation Basic Boot Camp on Joint Base Andrews, Nov. 7. The event included physical training, a mock military in-processing station, basic drills and military knowledge classes, a survival class and capture the flag to help military children better understand and appreciate parental military service.
U.S. Air Force photo/ Airman 1st Class J.D. Maidens/ Released
Azlynn Mims, daughter of Capt. Raymond Mims from the 11th Wing Staff Agency, shaves shaving cream off a balloon to mimic the haircuts given to basic training trainees, Nov. 7, 2015, on Joint Base Andrews, Md.
Andrews Gazette
Friday, November 20, 2015
5
dogs, from page 1 By Bobby Jones
Staff Photojournalist
Hero Dogs held a “Veterans and Service Dogs: An Information Session” event for veterans interested in applying for a service dog at the Silver Spring Civic Building at Veterans Plaza Nov. 14. Hero Dogs Inc. is a Maryland 501(c) non-profit corporation that raises and trains service dogs and places them free of charge with veterans to improve their quality of life and restore independence. Jennifer Lund, Ph.D., Hero Dogs Founder and Executive Director, discussed the application process for acquiring a service dog and gave demonstrations of how a service dog can assist during emergency situations and everyday life to audience members. “These dogs are available to veterans from any branch of the military, any era, even peace time,” said Lund. She noted, it doesn’t have to be a service or combat-connected disability. It can be something acquired after the person left the military; they are eligible to apply for a dog as long as the person served and left honorably. Lund’s extensive background in dog handling and training of service dogs led her to launch Hero Dogs Inc. in the metropolitan area because she noticed there was not an organization dedicated only to veterans. “If veterans wanted to apply for a service dog they would have needed to apply to a national program and travel to out of the area to receive a dog,” said Lund.
Bobby Jones
Jennifer Lund, Ph.D., Hero Dogs Founder and Executive Director, instructs Liberty, a service dog, to turn the light switch off and on during a demonstration of her capability to assist the veteran owner.
Bobby Jones
A former Army member, who suffers from PTSD, Hero Dogs Inc. trainer, receives comfort from her service dog.
Lund added the program is available to veterans in Northern Virginia, Washington, D.C., Baltimore and central Maryland, but applicants must be physically within an hour’s distance, because the veterans receive training within their home, work place and out in their communities. “We need to be able to reach them.” Named after military heroes, the donated puppies are primarily Golden and Labrador Retrievers, raised and trained in the program to become service dogs. “We train the veteran for a year. The recipient needs to be available for an entire year. After they get through the application process, we spend three weeks of intensive training and then meet with the veteran weekly. At that point they’ve gone home with the dog,” said Lund. “Owners are also required to take a certification examination and then we follow up with home visits on a monthly basis for the next six months to ensure everything is still going well. We want to make sure we have a good match for the dog’s temperament, skills, activity level and the persons’ needs and their lifestyle,” Lund explained. Lund noted, “It costs the organization about $40,000, after three years of training, but it’s free to the veteran. It’s funded entirely through donations. The organization also takes care of the dog’s medical needs.” Nearly six years old, Hero Dogs has six teams that have been successful in training and placing 10 service dogs with veterans. It takes three years to
complete each team and an extensive part of the training requires that the veteran take the dog everywhere with them, including public areas such as riding the metro, inside malls, on buses or in huge crowds with lots of noise. “That’s a job for some dogs with about a third of the dogs becoming therapy dogs as opposed to being service dogs,” said Lund. “Therapy dogs are dogs that work with their owner to give comfort to a wide variety of people, whether it might be someone in the hospital or someone in a nursing home setting or kids in school.” During the session Hero Dog owners shared their personal stories about their needs and personal interactions between them and their life-long partner dog with the trainers. Retired Air Force Lt. Col. Bob White was candid about his love for his newfound friend, Annie, a black Labrador retriever, during a concluding question and answer period for the audience. “My primary purpose for wanting a dog is to get assistance with my PTSD,” said White an Air Force combat veteran. “When I was going through different hospitalizations I found that dogs had a very positive impact on me. So it was through that process that I realized there were dogs available for psychiatric purposes. Sometime it’s hard being alone, because you don’t stay in the present due to flash backs or nightmares, and with Annie I’m never alone,” he shared. Annie was named for Air Force 1st Lt. Annie Fox, the first woman to be awarded the Purple Heart while on duty as a nurse
during the WWII Pearl Harbor attack in 1942. “She gives me something else to think about. Grooming and walking her is very calming,” said White. “For different reasons, it’s very difficult for me to awaken when I’m sleeping. Annie has learned the skill sets of physically touching me to wake me up to fire alarms, crying kids or just my morning alarm clock.” “Inside my 9 to 5 job as a professional my boss and coworkers have accepted Annie as a part of me performing my job.” Only having Annie for three months, White admitted making the transition has been difficult at times but well worth the dividends. “When I first started the program things were a little harder, because now you have four paws and two children to keep track of. If I’m commuting on the metro with two kids, that’s a challenge. But the longer you do it the better you get – or the more natural it is – and the more the dog understands your needs and will do things intuitively without being asked. However, she knows when the vest comes off she’s not working; she’s a dog and her total demeanor changes. When she’s a dog at home the kids can play catch with her. They help groom her and can have fun time with her.” “They talked about dogs finding keys and other items; the kids help train her by hiding different things and have the dog find it. It’s definitely a viable program for anyone who needs assistance,” White added. For more information, visit hero@hero-dogs.org or call 1-888-570-8653.
Andrews Gazette
6
Friday, November 20, 2015
Reflecting on Veterans Day By Tech Sgt. Bryan Franks Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs Command Information
U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Bryan Franks
Air Force Vice Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein greets retired Lt. Col. Alfred Deptula, an aircraft engineer during World War II, after the Veterans Day ceremony at the Air Force Memorial Nov. 11. The event provided an opportunity for veterans and their families to reflect on the sacrifices made in service of the nation.
a can’t-miss event for the whole family... featuring a dynamic choir in a 30-foot tree, live orchestra, thousands of twinkling lights and a heartwarming holiday drama!
friday, dec. 11 7:30 pm
saturday & sunday, dec. 12 & 13 1:30 & 6:00 pm
Veterans and their families, both young and old, reflected on the sacrifices made by Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines, who provide this nation with the best fighting force in the world, during a Veterans Day ceremony Nov. 11 at the Air Force Memorial, which overlooks the Pentagon and Potomac River. Air Force Vice Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein, who attended the event, said he sees Veterans Day as a time to remember and reflect on the fact that veterans are part of something much bigger than themselves. “This thing called service is not about any one individual — it’s about a team,” he said. “It’s about an Air Force, the Department of Defense, a joint team and a coalition team.” Under the Air Force Memorial spires, the U.S. Air Force Honor Guard presented the colors to the crowd of veterans, families and friends from every service, spanning conflicts from World War II to the present. “I’m a third-generation veteran,” Goldfein said. “My grandfather served in World War II with the Navy, my father (served) 33 years in the Air Force and spent time in Vietnam, and I have been privileged to serve in a few campaigns over the course of my career.” Reflecting on and honoring those who have served and those who continue to serve, all share a certain mindset that resonates with Goldfein. “When you talk to military veterans or retirees, they are not talking about the economy or the election or the business they started or other things about life in America,” Goldfein said. “They are talking about what it was like when they wore the cloth of our nation and were part of something
better and bigger than themselves.” During the event, retired Chief Master Sgt. Mark Stevenson, the Air Force Sergeants Association chief operating officer, said the number of veterans is dwindling as the military becomes smaller and the older veterans pass away. It’s estimated 7 percent of the U.S. population are veterans, with 1 percent currently serving. That is a small number of people who are asked to carry a large burden on behalf of a nation. While the number of veterans may be small across the country, when the Air Force Quintet played the “Armed Forces Melody,” each service was heard loud and clear across the Air Force Memorial plaza, as people both attending the event and visitors of the memorial paid tribute to their individual service. “When we raise our hand and take the oath, we begin this journey that, quite frankly, is all about continuing to refine our character around our core values,” Goldfein said. “It’s something that you work at every day. As you rise up in rank and responsibility, you are given the chance to lead the nation’s greatest treasure, the young men and women who sign up and serve.” As Taps began to play, veterans old and young stood up to pay a final tribute to the friends, family members and brothers in arms lost serving throughout the history of the United States. “As we pause today to recognize those who have served and currently serve our nation, I invite you to also recognize their families, for we know the entire family serves,” said Lt. Gen. Mark A. Ediger, the Air Force surgeon general. “Thank you for taking the time on this Veterans Day to recognize the remarkable legacy of those who have served and sacrificed to secure the freedoms we enjoy today, and thank you for your continued support to the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines of today’s U.S. military.”
tickets: $12
($10 seniors/children 10 & under) reserved seating • tickets limited • group pricing available
live nativity open 1 hour prior to each performance
get tickets online at
livingtreetickets.com or call
301.249.9111 U.S. Air Force photo/Tech. Sgt. Bryan Franks
Retired Gen. Larry O. Spencer, the Air Force Association president, addresses the crowd during a Veterans Day ceremony beneath the spires of the Air Force Memorial Nov. 11. Veterans and their families reflected on the sacrifices made by the Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen and Marines, who have defended and continue to defend the U.S., its allies and coalition partners.
Andrews Gazette
Friday, November 20, 2015
NOW OPEN in
7
CLINTON
Non-appointment, walk-in urgent care for routine injuries and illnesses. 365 days a year, 8 am to 10 pm. •
Staffed by board certified physicians
•
X-rays, lab tests, and prescription drugs on-site
•
60 locations in the mid-Atlantic region
•
Most major insurance plans accepted – your claims filed for you
•
Less costly than the ER
Clinton 9000 Woodyard Road (240) 546-3428
– Dr. Shelley Cabbell Board-Certified, American Board of Internal Medicine In practice since 1991 prcli100515post
With Patient First since 1998
8
Andrews Gazette
Friday, November 20, 2015
Security Forces Police Blotter Th e S e c u r i t y Fo r c e s B l o t t e r i s intended to keep members of the Jo i n t B a s e A n d r e w s C o m m u n i ty informed and aware of the crimes and offenses that occur throughout the base each week. If you have any information t h a t m a y h e l p S e c u r i t y Fo r c e s 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) 981-5656. Nov 10 at 2:39 pm: Security Forces responded to a vehicle accident involving a Government owned vehicle. Further investigation revealed the driver attempted to make a right turn when the car the driver was operating came in contact with an unoccupied vehicle causing minor damage. Nov 10 at 5:38 pm: Security Forces made contact with a vehicle at the Virginia Gate that was emitting the odor of marijuana. Security Forces searched the vehicle and discovered a green leafy substance that tested positive for THC. The individual was apprehended and charged accordingly. Nov 10 at 10:36 pm2015: Security Forces received an anonymous tip through the LiveSafe App regarding a loud noise complaint in Liberty Park Housing. Security Forces made contact with the individual and briefed them on quiet hours. Nov 11 at 2:31 am: Security Forces responded to a vehicle accident at the perimeter fence adjacent to Allentown Road. Further investigation revealed the driver was traveling southbound on Allentown Road when the driver
came in contact with the perimeter fence causing major damage to the fence. Nov 12 at 11:17 pm: Security Forces conducted a traffic stop in the outbound lane of Main Gate. The individual refused to roll down the window, or comply with Security Forces instructions. The individual was detained and cited accordingly. Nov 15 at 5:09 pm: Security Forces responded to a shoplifting at the Main Exchange. The individual attempted to depart the location without rendering payment for a watch and three pairs of socks. The individual was apprehended and charged accordingly. Nov 15 at 5:28 pm: Security Forces responded to Liberty Park Housing for an animal bite. The owner of the animal was instructed to remove the animal from the installation due to the multiple complaints regarding the animal. The individual was charged accordingly. As A Reminder Please remember, while driving on the installation you must have a valid driver’s license, proof of insurance, vehicle registration and proper Military Identification or approved installation access credentials. All credentials must be up to date and presented when requested. For reporting any emergencies or non-emergencies please feel free to utilize the “LiveSafe” App. “LiveSafe” is an anonymous reporting app that can be downloaded for free on your smart device. There has been an increase in reported vandalism on the installation. If you witness any vandalism taking place call Security Forces at (301) 981-2001.
Liberators host National American Indian heritage events
U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Kat Justen
Staff Sgt. Brittinie Alvarez, 811th Security Forces Squadron team leader, talks about the culture and practices of her Native American tribe the Shoshone-Bannock to a group of Imagine Andrews kindergartners Nov. 10. The presentation was part of ongoing National American Indian heritage month events co-organized by members of the 811 SFS and 459th Air Refueling Wing. The heritage month is slated to culminate in a cultural celebration with food tasting, artifact displays, drum group and dancers at the 459 ARW headquarters Bldg. 3755 room 205 from 11 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Nov. 30.
Andrews Gazette
Friday, November 20, 2015
9
Wrap up holiday spending
with no balance transfer fee and no transaction fee.
1
.90
VISA PLATINUM REWARDS CREDIT CARD
7 -18 .99% APR*
.00 APR*
Variable rate after 9 months
%APR*
FOR 9 MONTHS
andrewsfcu.org 800.487.5500 U.S. 00800.487.56267 International
*1.90% introductory APR (Annual Percentage Rate) is a promotional rate for balance transfers and purchases for the first nine (9) months on new Andrews Federal Visa Rewards cards for qualified members with approved credit. After the introductory period, card is subject to a variable rate, currently 7.99% 18.00% (APR will not exceed 18.00%). Rates, terms and conditions vary based on creditworthiness and qualifications and are subject to change. Introductory rate does not apply for Visa Secured credit cards. Rates and APRs are effective as of 11/1/2015 and are subject to change without notice.
10
adoption, from page 1 agers usually because they may have recently parented teenagers and think they are pretty good at it and up to the task,” Ledesma said. “Then there are also the baby boomers that are in their second marriage or relationship and maybe never parented but their current lifestyle might not be conducive to a very young child but have the desire to open their homes to a teenager,” Ledesma added. The first step toward adoption is to visit the website. The site provides general information particular to each state along with the explanation of the steps of the adoption process. In addition, people can take an entry look at the children photo listed along with the biographies (to see further you must be approved family or professional) The website provides each state’s qualifications along with information on how to foster and how to adopt – explaining the two. “Our staff is happy to answer any questions. If a family desires, they will be placed into a database for public agencies in their local area,” Ledesma noted. “Online chat is also available or email – whatever is best for the family.” When thinking of adoption, Ledesma offered some things to consider such as flexibility, family support, commu-
Andrews Gazette nity, support system – and “definitely having a good sense of humor, being able to roll with the punches,” Ledesma laughed. Having parented six teenagers herself, Ledesma joked, “I was a teenager once and my mother would have never survived if she didn’t have a good sense of humor.” Pre-service training is approximately 24-25 hours of classes, with some agencies providing a weekend format. Families are also able to meet some of the kids and some of the families that have already gone through the process and find out about services in the area. The home study is usually started while the family is going through the training. This is where the agency looks at the safety and stability of the homes. “This is the priority because all of these children have been abused and neglected. Child safety is paramount with us,” Ledesma said. Families then can begin to inquire about specific children. There are also events called match parties where approved families come to a social where they meet children who are waiting, along with their social workers, and have conversations with each other. At the end of the evening the kids provide their top three picks of families and the families in turn reveal who they would like to learn more about. “It’s interesting to hear about how kids and families describe what hap-
pens after that like dating because then they’ll meet for dinner or a ball game or some other activity they both enjoy to get to know each other and take the process slow. This is important particularly with teenagers because why would we put a teenager in a family that they say this isn’t right for me,” Ledesma shared. It is free to adopt a child from foster care. There are some small out of pocket expenses – criminal history check, travel to visit a child, etc. – but generally many expenses can be reimbursed after finalization. Ninety-three percent of adoptive children have qualified for ongoing adoption subsidy – generally it is the amount the foster family was paid to care for that child as well as medical assistance. Also, many of the children adopted after the age of 15 are eligible for college aid. Often there are children in foster care who have siblings with which they hope to be reunited. “We know from research that the sibling relationship is the longest relationship we will have in a lifetime as we outlive our parents, outlive our children. The biological sibling relationship becomes even more important to these kids as they’ve lost their parents. When kids are separated in foster care we work extra hard to make sure they are reunited in adoption,” Ledesma said. “I’m very happy to say of the 25,000 children photo-listed we have placed
Friday, November 20, 2015
44 percent with their brothers and sisters. It really is incredible. There have been groups of eight, a lot of sevens, and a huge number of sixes adopted. It’s pretty incredible that families will take that on. We really do focus on that importance of that sibling relationship,” Ledesma shared. The military family looking to adopt presents some different considerations; and available on the website is free downloadable guide “Wherever My Family Is, That’s Home!” which is a guide to working with military families and speaks to the special considerations for military inter-jurisdictional placement of children. “A military family would want to talk to our staff and clearly identify themselves as military and get some special help from us with that aspect,” Ledesma said, adding, “Military families — especially for teenagers — can make wonderful adoptive families because often what kids have lacked is structure and a disciplined environment; and they thrive in that environment and military families have a built in support system.” “You don’t have to have a lot of money in the bank or own your own home. We just need families that care and will be there for these kids. Just being there makes all the difference in these kids lives. When you hear the stories it’s just quite incredible,” Ledesma said. For more information call 888-2004005 or visit AdoptUSKids.org.
Andrews Gazette
Friday, November 20, 2015
11
THE UNITED STATES AIR FORCE BAND Washington, D.C.
Colonel Larry H. Lang, Commander and Conductor
Spirit of the
Season
Tuesday, December 1 at 8 p.m. Strathmore Music Center North Bethesda, Md. Saturday, December 12 3 p.m. & 8 p.m. DAR Constitution Hall Washington, D.C.
FREE! Tickets required. Please visit our website for info.
★ www.usafband.af.mil ★
Military Publication Account Executive The Military Newspapers of APG Media of Chesapeake is in search of a full time Account Executive to join our team!
Apartments Unfurnished
Misc. Services
PRINCE FREDERICK: 1br basement apartment. Utilities, WIFI, cable and w/d included. $800 month. Call 818-522-1297 or 410-4746327
Wanted to Buy Small collector pays CASH for Coins/Collections/Gold. Will come to you. Call Al at: 301-807-3266
Earn
all your Pilot Ratings at
NAFC
Private Pilot through Multi Engine ATP Use your GI, 9/11 or VA Bill 100% coverage of training cost
St. Mary’s County
Regional Airport, California, MD (2W6)
301-373-4505 Lee Airport
Edgewater, MD (ANP)
Call 301-6702503 to place your web ad today! www.dcmilitary. com/classifieds
This position will sell and service local and regional accounts as assigned and/or located within a geographical territory. The primary sales effort will be to solicit current and new business prospects to use one or more of the publications and website in our product portfolio. Generally, the Account Executive will be focusing on several publications at any given time that are published monthly, quarterly or annually. This position will report directly to an Advertising Sales Manager as well as work with members of their team and Advertising Director and Digital Sales Director of the region. The ideal candidate will be self-motivated, have effective presentation skills, creativity, strategic thinker, idea generator, good oral and written comprehension, deductive reasoning, strong work ethic, high computer aptitude, effective public speaking and ability to present to senior marketing executives and business owners. Preferred primary location will be the DC Metropolitan Region area or in the nearby communities. The Military Publications of APG is part of a larger family of media holdings APG Media of Chesapeake, LLC. APG’s Maryland, Virginia and DC properties include thirty-two publications, nine websites, and five mobile apps. These products cover fifteen counties in the two states and the District of Columbia and each week nearly 1.4 million people read the content they produce.
For all interested candidates, please email resumes to hr@chespub.com APG Media of Chesapeake LLC is an Equal Opportunity Employer and does not discriminate against applicants due to race,ethnicity, gender, veteran status, or on the basis of disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.
410.956.8751
www.nafcflying.org nafc_hq@nafcflying.org
Visit us online at dcmilitary.com
Andrews Gazette
12
MHBR No. 103
Friday, November 20, 2015