Joint Base Journal - July 12, 2013

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Joint Base Journal Vol. 4, No. 26

July 12, 2013

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J OINT B ASE A NACOSTIA-B OLLING

www.cnic.navy.mil/jbab

AF Band’s popular music group Vector welcomed home BY LT. CMDR. JIM REMINGTON JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

WASHINGTON – United States Air Force Band Commander, Col. Larry H. Lang led the way on July 2, in thanking, congratulating and welcoming home eight band members upon their return from a six-month deployment to U.S. Air Forces Central Command’s area of operations where they performed as the popular music band Vector. “We really, really appreciate you taking on this mission. It’s so important. It’s so vital,” Lang said. “I know you had a lot of different experiences over there. And sometimes maybe it didn’t feel like you were making an impact, but then there are others where you’re thinking ‘Oh, my gosh I’m so glad we we’re here.’’” Vector’s members were given a warm welcome home with a picnic

organized by the Chief’s Group, an assembly of the band’s chief master sergeants. Nearly all members of the band were present, as well as many family members. “We’re so proud of you, and we’re so very happy to have you home safe,” Lang said. “All these people showed up to congratulate you and thank you. That’s how much you were missed, and how much we love you. We care about you and we’re so glad you’re home safe and sound. Many of your family members are here to join you and be with us today because they are part of the team, too.” The band performed in Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, Qatar, Afghanistan and Kyrgyzstan. It’s no surprise that most of Vector’s performances were for the troops deployed forward, but lesser known is there role performing on many occasions for U.S. embassy staffs, school children, and local foreign nationals.

See VECTOR, Page 3

U. S. AIR FORCE PHOTO BY TECH. SGT. RACHEL MARTINEZ

Master Sgt. Jake McCray, Vector’s saxophonist, entertains children with a rendition of the “Pink Panther Theme” song following a performance at a secondary school in Kant, Kyrgyzstan. The children remained after the band’s performance and requested the song.

Joint Base rings in July 4th holiday with block party BY PAUL BELLO JOINT BASE ANACOSTIA-BOLLING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

WASHINGTON – Joint Base AnacostiaBolling (JBAB) celebrated July 4th with a block party at the Slip Inn Bar and Grill – the first of its kind since becoming a joint base back in 2010. Food, drinks, music and prizes headlined the afternoon extravaganza near the Capital Cove Marina. The Independence Day celebration was concluded in style with a spectacular fireworks show on the National Mall, easily viewable from JBAB. When not feasting on food and beverages at the Slip Inn, families also enjoyed games and activities along the waterfront – courtesy of JBAB’s Child Youth Programs. Senior Airman David Reihle and his wife, Courtney, brought their two young children out for a day of fun. The family was looking forward to this time together. “A day like this reminds us of what’s im-

portant in life,” Reihle said. “It’s a time to give thanks to those who fight for us. It’s also a time to reflect on your loved ones and what they mean to you.” Wendy Michulkski and her husband, Army Staff Sgt. Scott Michulski, brought a blanket and cooler full of cold drinks and watermelon to the occasion. Together, they found a spot along the waterfront and settled themselves in for the night’s fireworks. “We wanted to make sure we got a good spot. We want to be close enough so we could see the fireworks and take some good pictures,” she said. “Independence Day is always a great time. Whether you’re an adult or a child, you’ll always have fun.” Rather than attend this year’s block party, Air Force Staff Sgt. Gregory Barnes decided to host his own party - right in his very own backyard at JBAB. Along with his wife, Raquel, they set up a canopy, ordered plenty

See PARTY, Page 2

Joint Base police officers train at Dahlgren

July 4th Block Party

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U.S. NAVY PHOTO BY PAUL BELLO

Family and friends celebrate Independence Day during the block party along the waterfront at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling.

INSIDE

U.S. Air Force Band enjoys fellowship Page 6


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