Peninsula Warrior Army Edition: 02.10.17

Peninsula

Warrior J O I N T February 10, 2017 Vol. 7, No. 6

B A S E

ARMY EDITION

L A N G L E Y - E U S T I S

P u b l i s h e d i n t h e i n t e r e s t o f p e r s o n n e l a t Jo i n t B a s e L a n g l ey - E u s t i s

•

w w w. p e n i n s u l a w a r r i o r. c o m

AFCENT Command chief visits 497th ISRG Airmen —Page 6

SOUTHSIDE TO AF Maintainer shares story of redemption —Pages 8-9

For more online content, check out www.JBLE.af.mil

Air Force News

AFRICAN-AMERICAN HISTORY MONTH Mary Smith Peak and the Emancipation Oak —Page 2

Coast Guard Port Security Unit prepares to deploy —Page 10

2

www.peninsulawarrior.com

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

February 10, 2017

JOINT BASE LANGLEY-EUSTIS EDITORIAL STAFF Joint Base Langley-Eustis Commander Col. Caroline M. Miller Joint Base Langley-Eustis Public Affairs Officer Maj. Kevin Whitlatch • kevin.whitlatch@us.af.mil Joint Base Langley-Eustis Editor Staff Sgt. Brittany E.N. Murphy • brittany.murphy.2@us.af.mil Per Air Force Instruction 35-101/Army Regulation 360-1, only stories and photos submitted by members of the Department of Defense community and DOD news services may be printed in The Peninsula Warrior.

Any stories, photos or announcements must be submitted eight days prior to publication. Stories and photos should be submitted to the editor and/or assistant editor at 633abw. paedit@us.af.mil or Public Affairs Office, 601 Hines Cir., Fort Eustis, VA 23604. Announcements for the Community Section should be submitted to fteustismain@gmail.com.

Announcements for the Outside the Gate Section should be submitted to fteustismain@gmail.com. For more information call 878-4920.

Authors’ names may be withheld, but all letters must include the authors’ signatures and telephone number.

The Peninsula Warrior is an authorized publication for all the members of the U.S. military. Contents of The Peninsula Warrior are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, Department of the Air Force or the Department of the Army.

The Peninsula Warrior is printed every Friday by offset as a civilian enterprise newspaper for the Public Affairs Office, U.S. Air Force by Military Newspapers of Virginia at 150 W. Brambleton Ave. Norfolk, VA 23510 under exclusive written contract with the commander, Joint Base Langley-Eustis.

MNV is a private firm in no way connected with the Department of the Air Force or Department of the Army. Printed circulation: 25,000.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage 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. A confirmed violation or rejection of this policy of equal opportunity by any advertiser will result in refusal to print advertising from that source.

All editorial content of The Peninsula Warrior is prepared, edited, provided and approved by the Public Affairs Office Joint Base LangleyEustis. All photographs are Air Force or Army photographs unless otherwise stated. The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts and supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense or MNV of the products or services advertised.

MILITARY NEWSPAPERS OF VIRGINIA HOME OFFICE: 150 W. Brambleton Ave., Norfolk, VA 23510; 222-3990 ADVERTISING SALES: 728 Blue Crab Road, Suite C, Newport News, VA 23606; 596-0853; fax 622-6885

U.S. Air Force photo by Tetaun Moffett

The Emancipation Oak became the site of the first Southern reading of the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863. Mary Smith Peake taught her first class for enslaves and free African-Americans under this oak tree at Hampton University.

MARY SMITH PEAK (1823-1862) AND THE EMANCIPATION OAK

By Tetaun Moffett 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Mary Smith Peake was born a free slave in Norfolk, Virginia in 1823.

During her early childhood she moved to the city of Hampton, Va. with her family to earn a better living.

By the age of 24, Peake was secretly teaching enslaved, as well as free, African-American children and adults to read and write, which was prohibited by law after the Nat Turner Rebellion in 1831.

During the Civil War, Union General Benjamin F. Butler’s “contraband of war” decision at Fort Monroe in 1861 changed the fates of many African-American slaves, enabling hundreds to reach freedom under the sanctuary of the Union.

Shortly thereafter, Peake was hired as the first African-American teacher by the American Missionary Associa-

tion to also begin teaching “contraband” slaves to read and write under the limbs of a live oak tree near Ft. Monroe, which is now the community of Phoebus, Va. Peak continued to teach even while she was sick and bed-ridden, and later died of a serious illness in 1863.

That same year, many AfricanAmerican from the Hampton Roads community gathered under the tree that had sheltered Peak and her students to hear the first Southern reading of President Abraham Lincoln’s Emancipation Proclamation, thereafter the tree was called the Emancipation Oak. Though Peake did not live to see that historic event, the oak tree had already earned its place in history by serving as her first classroom. Five years after her death, the American Missionary Association founded Hampton University at the site of the Emancipation Oak, which was origi-

Photo Courtesy of Hampton University

At the age of 24, Mary Smith Peake secretly taught enslaved, as well as free, African-American children and adults to read and write in 1861. Her first class consisted of 20 students under an oak tree later known as the Emancipation Oak.

nally Peake’s outdoor classroom.

Today the Emancipation Oak, with its limbs sprawling over 100 feet in diameter, is designated as one of the 10 Great Trees of the World by the National Geographic Society.

We want to hear from you. Contact us at 633abw.paedit@us.af.mil, or call 878-4920 or 764-5701.

February 10, 2017

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

EEO cuts complaint resolution time

By Staff Reports 633RD AIR BASE WING EQUAL OPPORTUNITY OFFICE

Federal employees and applicants for civilian employment at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, who file workplace complaints through the 633rd Air Base Wing Equal Opportunity Office, may now see the resolution process shorten from several years, to just a few months.

Individuals filing complaints may elect to participate in an Equal Opportunity pilot program called the Compressed, Orderly, Rapid and Equitable Process instead of the traditional civilian EO complaint resolution process. The CORE process is a beneficial solution, due to the fact that it cuts processing time to four months.

This shortens the resolution process, in part, by replacing the investigation and hearing phases of the traditional complaint resolution process with a Fact-Finding Conference. The two phases could last up to a year to complete, while the Fact-Finding Conference blends the investigative and adjudicative phase into just over 100 days before a final agency decision is issued.

The Fact Finding Conference still allows the individual to question witnesses and maintain the right to file an appeal of a decision to U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission’s Office of Federal Operations.

At any point in the CORE process, complainants may opt-out and return to a comparable point in the traditional complaint resolution process. The CORE process, approved by the U.S. Equal Employment Opportunity Commission, operates directly under the authority of the Equal Employment Opportunity Commission by the Code of Federal Regulations.

The EEOC enforces federal laws that make it illegal to discriminate against an employee or job applicant.

The purpose of the U.S. Air Force EO Program is to enhance unit cohesiveness, military readiness and ultimately mission accomplishment. The CORE process expedites the civilian complaint process, which consequently returns the aggrieved members’ focus back on the mission.

The 633rd ABW EEO Office is running the CORE Process pilot program through fiscal 2018.

To learn more about the expedited complaint resolution process, contact the 633rd ABW EO office at 757-764-5877/78.

STAY INFORMED WWW.MILITARYNEWS.COM

3

4

www.peninsulawarrior.com

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

February 10, 2017

JBLE hosts Mardi Gras celebration

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Teresa J. Cleveland U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Teresa J. Cleveland

Guests take a photo in traditional Mardi Gras masks during the Mardi Gras event hosted at the Fort Eustis Club at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Feb, 3, 2017. While Mardi Gras is largely hosted in New Orleans, La., many installations host morale celebrations to recognize the event.

Felita Morgan, Warriors Café dining facility manager, has her face painted during the Mardi Gras event hosted at the Fort Eustis Club at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Feb, 3, 2017.

Mardi Gras is traditionally hosted in New Orleans, La., after becoming a legal holiday in Louisiana in 1875.

READY TO MAKE A SMOOTH TRANSITION INTO

ONE OF VIRGINIA’S BIGGEST

SUCCESS STORIES? COME MEET US AT THE FT. LEE JOB FAIR ON MARCH 9TH FROM 11AM - 3PM AND FT. EUSTIS ON MARCH 23RD FROM 9AM - 2PM We are seeking driven individuals to be part of our first-class commercial construction projects, in and around the Richmond area.

ACI offers the opportunity to train and learn one of the highest-demand trade positions in the construction industry!

No experience required! We will train each candidate in the basic skills necessary for one of the following trades:

Plumbing, Sheet Metal, Welding or Sprinkler Competitive wages and excellent benefits package – work with a solid, dedicated family of workers at a respected company with over 50 years in the business!

APPLY FOR OUR “TRADE TRAINEE” & OTHER POSITIONS AT:

www.atlanticconstructors.com EOE/AAP/M/F/VEVRAA-Vet/Disabled

DOES YOUR TEEN DESERVE A SECOND CHANCE?

Th Virginia The Vi i i C Commonwealth Challenge Youth Academy is a FREE educational alternative program

We give 16-18 year olds an opportunity to earn their GED, or up to 5-7 credits to apply towards their high school diploma in only 5 1/2 months. Our Edgenuity Credit Recovery Program is approved by the Virginia Department of Education.

• Highly disciplined atmosphere which fosters academics, leadership development, personal growth, and professional development.

• On campus living provides a safe haven for our cadets to learn, be creative and focus on themselves.

• We provide 22 weeks of FREE tuition, books, lodging, meals, and uniforms. Teens and their families do not have to demonstrate financial need.

OUR NEXT CLASS B BEGINS TUESDAY, MARCH 28, 2017.

CALL TODAY FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION ABOUT REGISTRATION. GO TO WWW.VACHALLENGE.ORG CALL 757-491-5932

February 10, 2017

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

5

New civilian appraisal program to begin in April

By Richard Salomon AIR FORCE PERSONNEL CENTER PUBLIC AFFAIRS

The Air Force will roll out a new Department of Defense civilian appraisal program in April designed to improve overall job performance, enhance supervisor and employee communication, and more effectively develop and reward the workforce.

The new program, called the DoD Performance Management and Appraisal Program, is part of the DoD’s collaborative labor-management effort known as New Beginnings. DPMAP will link employee duties and performance to the organization’s mission and goals. It will also make distinctions in overall job performance and will include a three-tier level rating — outstanding, fully successful and unacceptable. The first annual appraisal under this new system will be in 2018.

“Our civilian Airmen are an important part of the Air Force mission, and we want to continue to build on our culture of high performance with this new program,� said Cynthia Manchester, performance management program manager at Headquarters Air Force. “While DPMAP may feel familiar to the current Air Force appraisal program, it provides for greater employee-supervisor communication, increased employee engagement and timely recognition.�

Educational training is available to civilians and their supervisors in advance of the April roll out. Training options include web-based training via Joint Knowledge Online, or an eight-to-12 hour in-resident class, or a combination of the two. Employees will receive information about scheduling and taking DPMAP training when it is planned for their

U.S. Air Force graphic by Staff Sgt. Alexx Pons

The Air Force will roll out a new civilian appraisal program in April that will link employee duties and performance to the organization’s mission and goals.

base. DPMAP training is mandatory for all DPMAP covered civilians and their supervisors.

For more information, search “New Beginnings� on the myPers web site. Individuals who do not have a myPers ac-

count can request one by following these instructions. Additional information can also be found at Defense Civilian Personnel Advisory Service on the New Beginnings page or by visiting the local civilian personnel office.

Ĺ°*SV Q] XVERWMXMSR JVSQ WIVZMGIQIQFIV XS FYWMRIWW S[RIV MX LEH XS FI 919' Ĺą -#6*4;00 561&&#4& &EGLIPSV SJ 7GMIRGI 1EREKIQIRX 7XYHMIW 2EZ] :IXIVER

%XVLQHVV DQG PDQDJHPHQW SURJUDPV WKDW EXLOG RQ \RXU H[SHULHQFH :KHWKHU \RX ZDQW WR VWDUW \RXU RZQ EXVLQHVV RU DGYDQFH LQ \RXU Č´HOG 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 0DU\ODQG 8QLYHUVLW\ &ROOHJH 808& LV KHUH WR KHOS \RX UHDFK WKH QH[W SKDVH RI \RXU FDUHHU :LWK DZDUG ZLQQLQJ EXVLQHVV SURJUDPV LQ DUHDV VXFK DV DFFRXQWLQJ Č´QDQFH DQG KXPDQ UHVRXUFHV 808& FDQ SURYLGH WKH VNLOOV DQG NQRZOHGJH \RX QHHG WR DFKLHYH \RXU JRDOV 3OXV RXU GHGLFDWHG PLOLWDU\ DQG YHWHUDQV UHVRXUFHV FDQ KHOS \RX PDNH D VXFFHVVIXO WUDQVLWLRQ WR FLYLOLDQ OLIH 8QGHUJUDGXDWH FODVVHV VWDUW )HEUXDU\

)Î&#x2013;1' 287 +2: 808& &$1 :25. )25 <28

'EPP :MWMX YQYG IHY FEWI

k 8QLYHUVLW\ RI 0DU\ODQG 8QLYHUVLW\ &ROOHJH

6

www.peninsulawarrior.com

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

February 10, 2017 U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Joseph Montgomery, command chief, U.S. Air Forces Central Command, visited Airmen of the 497th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Group at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Jan. 16. During his visit, Montgomery experienced first-hand the processing, exploitation and dissemination capabilities the 497th ISRG (Distributed Ground Station-1) Airmen provide to the fight across the AFCENT area of responsibility.

U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Darnell T. Cannady

AFCENT COMMAND CHIEF VISITS 497TH ISRG AIRMEN

By Tech Sgt. Darnell T. Cannady 480TH INTELLIGENCE, SURVEILLANCE, AND RECONNAISSANCE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Joseph Montgomery, U.S. Air Forces Central Command command chief, visited Airmen of the 497th Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance Group at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, Jan. 16, 2017.

During his visit, Montgomery experienced first-hand the processing, exploitation and dissemination capabilities the 497th ISRG, Distributed Ground Station-1,

HARRY H. HEYSON III Attorney At Law

from $ Divorce, Uncontested ................

175 Separation Agreement ................ $75

★Fault and Contested Divorces ★Custody Hearings Mariner Bldg., Suite 103 12388 Warwick Blvd., N.N

FREE INITIAL CONSULTATION

595-1155

service members provide to the mission across the AFCENT area of responsibility.

“I came here to gain a deeper understanding of how the Airmen support the fight down range,” said Montgomery. “I know they provide a substantial amount of support to what we’re doing, and quite frankly, I was amazed to see all of the things that the Airmen here do for us.”

In addition to learning about what they do, he wanted to personally meet the Airmen who keep deployed U.S. service members safe.

• Newly Renovated Facility •

DENBIGH

LOWEST RATES IN DENBIGH!

LOCALLY OWNED AND OPERATED

875-0800

SELF STORAGE

• 24-Hour Secured Property • Management on Site • Larger Sizes Available • Daily Access 7am to 9pm 15458 WARWICK BLVD I NEWPORT NEWS, VA

MENTION THIS AD FOR 1 MONTH FREE RENT!

“I was able to recognize an Airman who works in a classified area, and what she’s doing is absolutely vital to keeping our partners on the ground safe,” said Montgomery. “Getting to meet an Airman who is actually looking at that every day, building those products and actually helping us develop the targets to keep this fight going every day is amazing.”

This visit allowed AFCENT leadership to better understand the role the 497th ISRG has in the mission, by get feedback from the Airmen who support the downrange fight and strengthen their partnership. “[Visiting here] just further reaffirms to me that what these Airmen are doing is absolutely crucial in making the fight happen down range,” said Montgomery.

“Without them, whether it be areas such as target development or helping us find and destroy the enemy is absolutely crucial to making this fight happen every day.”

CHOOSE CAR SEAT:

BY AGE & SIZE

THE NUMBER OF PEOPLE

THE ONES

WHO THINK THEY HAVE THEIR CHILD IN THE RIGHT SEAT.

WHO ACTUALLY DO.

KNOW FOR SURE

IF YOUR CHILD IS IN THE RIGHT CAR SEAT. VISIT SAFERCAR.GOV/THERIGHTSEAT

February 10, 2017

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

7

Mattis issues budget guidance, says fiscal 2017 submission will rise

By Jim Garamone US ARMY NEWS RELEASE

Defense Secretary Jim Mattis issued budget directives Tuesday aimed at addressing shortfalls in the department and building a more lethal joint force.

The budget directives have a quick trigger, with the first request — for an amendment to the fiscal year 2017 budget — due to the Office of Management and Budget by March 1. The budget request for fiscal 2018 is due May 1.

Mattis listed three goals: improve warfighting readiness, achieve program balance by addressing shortfalls, and build “a larger, more capable, and more lethal joint force.”

LAUNCHES STRATEGY EFFORT The guidance also launches the effort to devise the 2018 National Defense Strategy.

The Department of Defense is currently operating under a continuing resolution, which freezes spending at fiscal 2016 levels. Mattis’ guidance is aimed at strengthening the armed forces and making the nation more secure, Pentagon spokesman Navy Capt. Jeff Davis said.

“The secretary is committed to achieving maximum value from every taxpayer dollar spent on defense,” Davis said.

“This process reforms our budget process to improve warfighting readiness, fill pressing shortfalls and build a larger and more lethal force while taking care of our service members and their families.”

Deputy Defense Secretary Bob Work will manage the review processes for the March and May submissions.

2017 AMENDMENT The immediate priority is the 2017 budget amendment. Mattis said in his memo that the amendment will address “urgent warfighting readiness shortfalls across the joint force” and new requirements that may be needed as the campaign against the Islamic State of Iraq and the Levant accelerates.

The Obama administration prepared the 2017 submission, and the amendment is the Trump administration’s chance to put in its priorities. The budget request was for $582.7 billion. Congress has not passed the budget.

“The amendment may increase force structure in critical areas where doing so would have an immediate impact,” Mattis wrote. It also will contain a provision for DOD to shift funds from lowerpriority programs. Mattis wrote that he anticipates a net increase over the 2017 topline budget request the previous administration put forward.

REBUILDING READINESS The fiscal 2018 budget will continue efforts to balance the department, address programmatic shortfalls and rebuild readiness. The budget request — again drawn up in part by the previous administration — will examine buying more critical munitions, funding facilities sustainment at a higher rate, building programs for promising advanced capability demonstrations, investing in critical enablers and growing force structure at the maximum responsible rate.

There is no mention in the document about sequestration, a provision of the Budget Control Act of 2011 that imposes across-the-board spending cuts if Congress and the White House cannot agree on more targeted cuts aimed at reducing the budget deficit. President Donald Trump has pledged to work with Congress to repeal that law.

The 2018 National Defense Strategy will contain a new force-sizing construct that will inform targets for force structure growth, Mattis wrote. “It will also determine an approach to enhancing the lethality of the joint force against highend competitors and the effectiveness of our military against a broad spectrum of potential threats,” he added.

All of this must happen as the department looks to ways to spend taxpayers’ money more wisely and effectively, the secretary said.

U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Amber I. Smith

Secretary of Defense Jim Mattis answers questions from the press shortly before arriving in South Korea, Feb. 2, 2017.

8

www.peninsulawarrior.com

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

February 10, 2017

February 10, 2017

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

9

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, takes a break while waiting for an F-22 Raptor pilot to arrive to his jet during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Crew chiefs conduct preflight checks before pilots arrive to ensure that all aircraft maintenance safety measures are in standards.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

Left: U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, checks an F-22 Raptor’s wing lights during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Checking the lights is a part of preflight inspections that ensure the aircraft’s instruments are in safe working order to fly.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, right, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, briefs an F-22 Raptor pilot during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Crew chiefs like Dowling work day and night shifts at Red Flag to enable various exercise missions.

FROM SOUTHSIDE TO AIR FORCE: MAINTAINER SHARES STORY OF REDEMPTION

By Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Enduring the Southside of Chicago Heights’ symphony of gun shots and screams was not something U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling was willing to continue.

“Getting out of the area I grew up in was the main priority,” said Dowling, now a crew chief with the 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit out of Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. “I scored a 98 on the [Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test] and originally wanted to be a linguist, but I just wanted to leave as quick as possible, so mechanical it was.”

After renting out his grandfather’s basement for a few months, he and his cousin concluded that they would join the military together.

However, that plan was halted before the two could enlist.

“He got locked up for armed robbery a couple of months before I left for basic,

001WLA02102017.indd A8-A9

and we were supposed to be in the same flight,” said Dowling.

For Dowling, his cousin’s arrest was an unfortunate wake-up call that only solidified his decision to join the U.S. Air Force.

“I wouldn’t be in a good place if I had stayed; probably dead or locked up,” said Dowling. “I was supposed to hang out with my cousin that night; he was on his way back from the robbery when he got pulled over and caught. It was that close to going south for me too.”

Now a year after arriving to JBLE, Dowling is participating in his first military exercise, Red Flag. Held at Nellis AFB, Nevada, the exercise offers the U.S. Air Force’s premiere integration of air, cyber and space operations in a large-force coalition effort.

While Dowling’s daily duties at Red Flag 17-1 don’t differ much from conducting pre- and post-flight inspections and maintenance at his home unit, the perspective of how he fits into the 21st century multi-platform battlefield has

broadened.

“Compared to other jobs, I get to say that I work on that jet as it’s flying overhead,” said Dowling of working on the F-22 Raptor, a fifth-generation fighter aircraft that dominates the air with stealth, supercruise, maneuverability and integrated avionics.

“I love it at Red Flag so far,” he added.

“Just seeing all of the other countries here and watching the other jets taxi as you taxi your jet adds shock and awe, especially as a first timer.”

For Senior Master Sgt. Donald Price, 27th AMU superintendent, it’s apparent that Dowling is not only benefitting from his Red Flag experience, but the Air Force benefits from proficient maintainers like Dowling.

“He’s striving every day to be the best maintainer he can be,” said Price. “A lot is riding on what he does.”

With self-proclaimed obsessive compulsive disorder, Dowling is one of the first Airmen out to the flight line ensur-

ing that all his tools are in order and that preflight checks are ready to go.

“Probably the most important aspect of this job is attention to detail,” said Price.

“With what he does every single day, lives are at stake. Whether it’s the lives or safety of his coworkers on the ground or the pilots, if you lacked that attention to detail there could be severe consequences.”

For Dowling, he is just doing his job to the best of his ability, as the main goal of the 27th AMU is to keep everyone safe.

As he makes his way to his aircraft checking its wings, engine intake, tires and more daily, Dowling does so with a sense of pride in knowing that he not only made it out of the Southside, but to the Air Force’s premiere training to work on a multi-role stealth fighter aircraft.

“I thank the Air Force for everything I have,” said Dowling, who now owns his own home with his wife. “I wouldn’t have any of this, if it wasn’t for the Air Force.”

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, watches as U.S. and coalition aircraft take-off during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Red Flag 17-1 features a large force training involving U.S. and coalition forces working together in a cyber, space and air battlefield.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, conducts preflight checks on an F-22 Raptor during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Preflight checks are conducted to ensure aircraft are safe to fly in the large force, coalition exercise.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, checks his equipment before conducting preflight inspections on an F-22 Raptor during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Red Flag 17-1 includes not only Raptor aircrews and support, but fellow fifth generation F-35A Lightning II crews.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

2/9/2017 2:01:22 PM

8

www.peninsulawarrior.com

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

February 10, 2017

February 10, 2017

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

9

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, takes a break while waiting for an F-22 Raptor pilot to arrive to his jet during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Crew chiefs conduct preflight checks before pilots arrive to ensure that all aircraft maintenance safety measures are in standards.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

Left: U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, checks an F-22 Raptor’s wing lights during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Checking the lights is a part of preflight inspections that ensure the aircraft’s instruments are in safe working order to fly.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, right, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, briefs an F-22 Raptor pilot during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Crew chiefs like Dowling work day and night shifts at Red Flag to enable various exercise missions.

FROM SOUTHSIDE TO AIR FORCE: MAINTAINER SHARES STORY OF REDEMPTION

By Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Enduring the Southside of Chicago Heights’ symphony of gun shots and screams was not something U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling was willing to continue.

“Getting out of the area I grew up in was the main priority,” said Dowling, now a crew chief with the 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit out of Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia. “I scored a 98 on the [Armed Services Vocational Aptitude Battery test] and originally wanted to be a linguist, but I just wanted to leave as quick as possible, so mechanical it was.”

After renting out his grandfather’s basement for a few months, he and his cousin concluded that they would join the military together.

However, that plan was halted before the two could enlist.

“He got locked up for armed robbery a couple of months before I left for basic,

001WLA02102017.indd A8-A9

and we were supposed to be in the same flight,” said Dowling.

For Dowling, his cousin’s arrest was an unfortunate wake-up call that only solidified his decision to join the U.S. Air Force.

“I wouldn’t be in a good place if I had stayed; probably dead or locked up,” said Dowling. “I was supposed to hang out with my cousin that night; he was on his way back from the robbery when he got pulled over and caught. It was that close to going south for me too.”

Now a year after arriving to JBLE, Dowling is participating in his first military exercise, Red Flag. Held at Nellis AFB, Nevada, the exercise offers the U.S. Air Force’s premiere integration of air, cyber and space operations in a large-force coalition effort.

While Dowling’s daily duties at Red Flag 17-1 don’t differ much from conducting pre- and post-flight inspections and maintenance at his home unit, the perspective of how he fits into the 21st century multi-platform battlefield has

broadened.

“Compared to other jobs, I get to say that I work on that jet as it’s flying overhead,” said Dowling of working on the F-22 Raptor, a fifth-generation fighter aircraft that dominates the air with stealth, supercruise, maneuverability and integrated avionics.

“I love it at Red Flag so far,” he added.

“Just seeing all of the other countries here and watching the other jets taxi as you taxi your jet adds shock and awe, especially as a first timer.”

For Senior Master Sgt. Donald Price, 27th AMU superintendent, it’s apparent that Dowling is not only benefitting from his Red Flag experience, but the Air Force benefits from proficient maintainers like Dowling.

“He’s striving every day to be the best maintainer he can be,” said Price. “A lot is riding on what he does.”

With self-proclaimed obsessive compulsive disorder, Dowling is one of the first Airmen out to the flight line ensur-

ing that all his tools are in order and that preflight checks are ready to go.

“Probably the most important aspect of this job is attention to detail,” said Price.

“With what he does every single day, lives are at stake. Whether it’s the lives or safety of his coworkers on the ground or the pilots, if you lacked that attention to detail there could be severe consequences.”

For Dowling, he is just doing his job to the best of his ability, as the main goal of the 27th AMU is to keep everyone safe.

As he makes his way to his aircraft checking its wings, engine intake, tires and more daily, Dowling does so with a sense of pride in knowing that he not only made it out of the Southside, but to the Air Force’s premiere training to work on a multi-role stealth fighter aircraft.

“I thank the Air Force for everything I have,” said Dowling, who now owns his own home with his wife. “I wouldn’t have any of this, if it wasn’t for the Air Force.”

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, watches as U.S. and coalition aircraft take-off during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Red Flag 17-1 features a large force training involving U.S. and coalition forces working together in a cyber, space and air battlefield.

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, conducts preflight checks on an F-22 Raptor during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Preflight checks are conducted to ensure aircraft are safe to fly in the large force, coalition exercise.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Brian Dowling, 27th Aircraft Maintenance Unit crew chief, checks his equipment before conducting preflight inspections on an F-22 Raptor during Red Flag 17-1 at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Jan. 26, 2017. Red Flag 17-1 includes not only Raptor aircrews and support, but fellow fifth generation F-35A Lightning II crews.

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Natasha Stannard

2/9/2017 2:01:22 PM

10

www.peninsulawarrior.com

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

February 10, 2017

COAST GUARD PORT SECURITY UNIT PREPARES TO DEPLOY

By Airman 1st Class Derek Seifert 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

A U.S. Coast Guard unit assigned to Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, participated in a week-long exercise to prepare for an upcoming deployment in support of antiterrorist force protection.

U.S. Coast Guard Port Security Unit 305 practiced coordinating maritime and land-based tactics, techniques and procedures Jan. 30 to Feb. 2 on the shores and waterways along the James River.

“This was a joint exercise between our shoreside assets, waterside security assets and our communications center. Essentially, what we’re looking to accomplish is to train together to effectively maintain antiterrorism force protection for our expeditionary mission,” said U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Enforcement Specialist 1st Class Matthew Ott, PSU 305 Shoreside Division lead petty officer and fire team leader. “Our unit is unique in that we can deploy in 96 hours and can be self-sustainable. Doing these types of exercises gets us all on the same page as far as our tactics, techniques and procedures to execute a safe antiterrorism force protection mission.”

The unit’s maritime assets served as

the first line of defense for the shores.

The crew’s techniques were tested by a simulated opposing force trying to gain access to the installation.

“My role was to help facilitate training between the waterborne division and the shoreside division,” said Boatswain Mate 1st Class Joseph Damico, PSU 305 waterborne security division operations petty officer.

“Our forces practiced implementing our use of force tactics out on the water as well as working with our shoreside fire teams.”

In the event that the waterside assets were disabled, the observation post would spot the opposing vessel and ensure the battle positions located on the shore were tracking and ready to engage if necessary.

According to Ott, the four-day exercise brought PSU 305 closer together and provided teamwork and cohesion practice as the upcoming deployment approaches.

“It definitely helped us enhance communication between our waterside and shoreside assets,” said Ott. “It’s always good when we can go out and do joint training that helps us understand their tactics, terminology and brevity codes. It also helped them learn what our capabilities are.”

U. S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Derek Seifert

U.S. Coast Guard members assigned to Port Security Unit 305, monitor radars and waterways during deployment training at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Feb. 2, 2017. The USCG unit participated in a week-long training exercise to learn the necessary skills required for the unit’s upcoming deployment.

U.S. Coast Guard Maritime Enforcement Specialist 1st Class Corey Philips, Port Security Unit 305 tactical crewmember and engineer, talks with another USCG boat crew during a deployment exercise at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Feb. 2, 2017. The boat crews performed maritime tactics to deter the acting opposing force from reaching land.

A ring buoy life preservation device is hung on a boat as Port Security Unit 305 prepares for an upcoming deployment by conducting training on maritime operations and land security at Joint Base LangleyEustis, Va., Feb. 2, 2017. The unit trained on techniques and tactics to deter hostile or unauthorized boats from landing at the shores of JBLE. U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Derek Seifert

U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Derek Seifert

February 10, 2017

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

11

MAINTAINING RESOLUTIONS THROUGHOUT THE YEAR

By Staff Sgt. Teresa J. Cleveland 633RD AIR BASE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Celebrating the beginning of a new year by making resolutions to change habits or correct behaviors such as quitting smoking, eating healthier, exercising more or saving money are common for people from all walks of life. For many, the motivation to continue toward these goals can slowly lessened, and many times, is gone within just a few short weeks.

Psychologists and mental health professionals at the behavioral health clinics at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Virginia, recognize that service members, spouses, retirees and dependents may sometimes struggle to maintain the positive motivation in order to achieve their goals and live happier lives.

“Typically when we have any change of habit that we want to work toward, we do it in a sense of awareness that something is bad for us, even though it feels good,” said U.S. Army Maj. Paul White, McDonald Army Health Center Behavioral Health psychologist and department deputy chief.

“However, when our minds feel threatened by something stressful, we revert to that thing that we know makes us feel good and takes away that stress, which would be some bad habit. So while we have every intention to stay on track and stay focused, it’s usually stress that causes us to sabotage our best laid plans,” he explained.

Though change is hard, keeping up with New Year’s resolutions can be made simpler by remembering these tips provided by the JBLE Behavioral Health clinics: Remember the why – Remember

how stress and negative feelings impact your cravings for bad habits such as smoking and overeating. Remember the reasons you wanted to make the particular change in your life.

Have a support system – Let coworkers, family and friends know of your goals so they can help keep you accountable. Talking with loved ones can also help distract when a craving arises.

Set short-term, SMART, goals – Setting goals that are specific, manageable, attainable or agreeable, realistic and trackable over smaller periods of time can help you see progress as you work toward long-term goals.

Distract yourself from temptation – When a craving for a cigarette, unhealthy snacks or spending unnecessary funds arises, do things to distract yourself such as eating healthy snacks, performing physical activity or talking to someone nearby.

Speak to a professional – when working toward a new goal, speak to a professional in that area of expertise such as a nutritionist, personal trainer or financial advisor. These experts may help you prepare for setbacks you might not foresee on your own.

Place goals in your daily view – Write your goals down and place them on a bathroom mirror, or next to your computer monitor at work to encourage and remind yourself of the goals you are working toward.

Though maintaining the motivation to keep working toward a goal may be difficult, U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Casey Kalal, 633rd Medical Operations Squadron Behavioral Health flight chief, reminds those who are struggling, that slip-ups happen but not to let it discourage them.

“I tell people to never give up. It’s

U.S. Air Force photo by Staff Sgt. Teresa J. Cleveland

never too late to re-start because you don’t want to lose the progress you’ve already made,” said Kalal. “People often deal with setbacks and fall back on their goals, but it is important they remember to be aware of how the setback made them feel, reevaluate why they wanted to make the change in the first place and regain that motivation to work toward that goal again.”

For more information, contact the Langley Behavioral Health Clinic at 764-6840 or Fort Eustis Behavioral Health Clinic at 314-7558.

Goal reminders are posted on a U.S. Air Force Airman’s computer at Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va., Jan. 24, 2017. JBLE behavioral health professionals recommend posting reminders of New Year’s resolutions near a computer, bathroom mirror or other areas in daily view to be a constant reminder and motivator to stick to those goals.

12

www.peninsulawarrior.com

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

•

February 10, 2017

AF RESPONDS TO HIRING FREEZE News Release SECRETARY OF THE AIR FORCE PUBLIC AFFAIRS

The Air Force is working with the Defense Department to provide additional guidance on the federal civilian hiring freeze implemented Jan. 23.

According to the official memorandum, the hiring freeze applies to all executive departments and agencies regardless of the sources of their operational and programmatic funding, excepting military personnel. Exemptions may be permitted to meet the national security mission and public safety responsibilities or to prevent essential services from interruption. During this freeze, contracting outside the government is not permitted.

The appointment of federal employees who began work on or before Jan. 23 will not be affected and those with existing “firm” offers with effective dates on or before Feb. 22 may proceed. The Air Force

Personnel Center will provide individual notices to those directly affected by this freeze. This will include those individuals who received job offers prior to Jan. 22 with a confirmed start date after Feb. 22, or in some cases, no start date.

The official memorandum calls for the implementation of a long-term plan to reduce the size of the federal civilian workforce through attrition. This plan is to be submitted within 90 days by the Office of Management and Budget in coordination with the Office of Personnel Management.

“Our civilian force is absolutely critical to our readiness and mission, we are taking every step to ensure we get this right,” said Lt. Gen. Gina M. Grosso, the deputy chief of staff for Air Force manpower, personnel and services. “Our team has been working closely with OSD to draft clear Air Force guidance on implementation and hiring freeze exemptions. As of today, we have not received the final DOD guid-

ance memorandum, which we believe will contain some relief in critical mission areas. Once the DOD guidance is released, we will provide the field with detailed guidance on exemption processing to ensure the most swift and effective method to request needed relief.”

The civilian workforce makes up 26 percent of the total Air Force and is currently staffed at 96 percent with more than 179,000 positions filled. Given historical attrition of 1,300 personnel per month, the civilian work force could shrink by 3 percent over the next four months, leaving more than 13,000 vacant positions.

“The impact of this freeze will likely be felt over time as personnel retire and separate from the Air Force,” she continued. “Because of the vital role civilians perform, we will work to provide as much information as possible, as quickly as possible with regard to the freeze.”

AF tattoo policy updates took effect Feb. 1

By Staff Sgt. Alexx Pons AIR FORCE PERSONNEL CENTER PUBLIC AFFAIRS

According to an Air Force Policy Memorandum for Appearance and Accession Standards Review, revisions for tattoo standards applicable to the Total Force take effect Feb. 1.

The guidance, which will be incorporated into Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel, and several others, applies to all members of the Regular Air Force, as well as Reserve and Guard components.

All changes resulted from a review directed by former Air Force Secretary Deborah Lee James last year. Significant highlights include: Authorized tattoos on the chest, back, arms and legs will no longer be restricted by the “25 percent” rule Tattoos, brands or body markings on the head, neck, face, tongue, lips and scalp remain prohibited Hand tattoos are limited to one single-band ring tattoo, on one finger, on one hand

Current Airmen with existing hand tattoos that were authorized under the previous policy will be grandfathered in under the old policy standards Grandfathered tattoos on the hand are required to be documented on the member’s AF Form 4428, Tattoo/ Brand/Body Marking Screening/Verification Hand tattoos that are grandfathered can be exposed and visible while wearing any uniform combination(s). Chest and back tattoos will not be visible through any uniform combination(s) or visible while wearing an open collar uniform Tattoos, brands and body markings anywhere on the body that are obscene, commonly associated with gangs, extremist and/or supremacist organizations or that advocate sexual, racial, ethnic or religious discrimination remain prohibited in and out of uniform Airmen may not cover up tattoos, brands or body markings with bandages or make-up in order to comply with policy Members who have or receive un-

U.S. Air Force photo illustration by Senior Airman Chip Pons

Revisions for Air Force tattoo standards applicable to the Total Force take effect Feb. 1, 2017. The guidance, which will be incorporated into Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Personal Appearance of Air Force Personnel, and several others, applies to all members of the Regular Air Force, as well as Reserve and Guard components.

authorized content tattoos, brands or body markings are required to initiate removal/alteration Additionally, per AFI 36-2903, paragraph 2.10, commanders will retain the authority to be more restrictive for covering up tattoos, body ornaments and personal grooming standards based on legal, moral, safety, sanitary and foreign country cultural reasons.

Members are encouraged to review

the Tattoo Policy Guidance Addendum for additional clarification as to what constitutes a tattoo, brand or body mark, and for more details on what is unauthorized. Violators of prohibitions outlined in the policy are subject to prosecution under Article 92 of the Uniform Code for Military Justice.

For additional information about dress and appearance, visit the Air Force Personnel Center website.

February 10, 2017

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

EustisCommunity Fort Eustis Tax Center opens Jan. 30 The Fort Eustis Tax Center will open Jan. 30, 2017 to April 14, 2017 for in-person advice for active duty members, retirees and dependents. The center will open 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday, Wednesday and Friday for walk-in services. From 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Tuesday and Thursday by appointment only for active duty members.

Members should bring their W-2, 1099-R, 1098-T, interest or brokerage states, dependent care statements, mortgage statements, rental property statements and last year’s tax return to their appointments. For more information, contact 878-3031.

•

www.peninsulawarrior.com

13

Submit Eustis Community announcements to pw@militarynews.com munities-owned and managed properties. If you live at Fort Eustis Family Homes, are attending or will be attending an accredited educational or technical institution for the 2017/2018 term and are excelling academically, while making your community a better place to live, then we want to recognize your efforts and lend a hand with your college finances. For more details and to submit an application, please visit the Foundation’s website, www.bbcommunitiesfoundation.org. Only online applications will be accepted and the application deadline is 11:59 p.m. PST, March 31, 2017.

Fort Eustis Spouse’ Club helps community with grants The Pines Golf Course hosts Par 3 Challenge The Pines Golf Course at Fort Eustis will host the Par 3 Challenge at 9 a.m. at 3518 Mulberry Island Rd., Fort Eustis, Va., February 25, 2017. Each hole will be turned into a unique and fun par 3, ranging from 50 to 150 yards. This event is great for golfers of all abilities and will have a “Beat the Pro” element where golfers will try to beat Andy Weissinger, Joint Base Langley-Eustis, Va. golf manager. For more information, call 878-2252.

JBLE hosts Black History Month celebration Joint Base Langley-Eustis’s Headquarters Training and Doctrine Command will host a special commemorative celebration from 11 a.m. to 12 p.m. at the Jacobs Conference Center at Fort Eustis, Va., Feb. 28, 2017. This year’s theme, “The Crisis in Black Education – Success Always Leaves Footprints” focuses on the crucial role of education in the history of African Americans. Ellen M. Helmerson. Headquarters TRADOC deputy chief of staff, will host the event and Brian Smalls, National Association for the Advancement of Colored People York-James City-Williamsburg Chapter president, will be the keynote speaker. For more information, call 501-699 or 501-6784.

Fort Eustis’ Regimental Memorial Chapel hosts weekly programs Regimental Memorial Chapel hosts the following weekly programs: All programs will held at the Regimental Memorial Chapel at 923 Lee Blvd., Fort Eustis, Va. • The Awana Program is held from 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. every Wednesday. Awana is a program for children, ages four to middle school, helping churches and parents to work together to develop spiritually strong children who faithfully follow Jesus Christ.

• The Protestant Women of the Chapel bible studies is held from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. every Tuesday in the assembly room. The PWOC offers four studies from which to choose: “Prayers of the Bible” by Susan Hunt; “None Like Him” by Jen Wilkin; “Transforming Grace” by Jerry Bridges; and “Walking with God in the Season of Motherhood” by Melissa Kruger. Child care is available for preschool children and an attended home-school room.

• The Fort Eustis Catholic Women of the Chapel meet from 9:30 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. every Wednesday. The CWOC are currently studying “Walking Toward Eternity,” a series of studies designed to help you make real and lasting changes in your life.

Through a prayerful reading of Scripture, personal reflection, and a commitment to action, you will grow in faith and be given the means to put it into practice in your daily life. Child care is available for preschool children.

For more information, call 878-4316.

Balfour Beatty Communities Foundation now accepting scholarship Balfour Beatty Communities Foundation is now accepting scholarship applications for the 2017/2018 academic year and is looking to recognize both current and aspiring college students looking to make a difference both in and out of the classroom. The Balfour Beatty Communities Foundation is a 501© 3 non-profit organization which principally focuses on supporting the post-secondary educational goals of residents living in a community owned and managed by Balfour Beatty Communities, LLC. New to this year’s scholarship program, the applicant pool has expanded to include leaseholders, their spouses and their dependents at all Balfour Beatty Com-

The Spouses’ Club of Fort Eustis (SCFE) is a private, non-profit organization that earns funds through The Whistle Stop Thrift Store, monthly luncheons, an annual gala, and other events. The funds generated from the SCFE are then dispersed throughout the community in the form of “Community Grants” that are used to benefit the soldiers and families of the Fort Eustis community. Past examples of these community grants are meals provided to soldier’s families, personal devices to help Wounded Warriors keep track of medical appointments and help for soldiers passing through airports. The deadline for grant applications is April 9, 2017. For more information or to donate, go to www.SCFEVA.com.

JBLE Outdoor Recreation Centers open Saturdays The Langley Air Force Base and Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Centers will now open on Saturdays. The hours of operation for the Langley Outdoor Recreation Center are 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. The hours of operation for the Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Center are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, contact the Langley Outdoor Recreation Center at 764-7170 or the Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Center at 878-2610.

Company Grade Officer Council welcomes members The Company Grade Officer Council will meet at 4:45 p.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center every third Thursday of the month and is open to all Company Grade Officers. The council has an opening for a U.S. Army officer on the council board. Join the council for professional development, social events and fun. For more information, call 764-9954.

Fort Eustis’ Groninger Library encourages reading Fort Eustis’ Groninger Library has implemented an ongoing Reading Program entitled “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” and “1000 Books from 1st -5th grades.” For every 100 books read, children can take their reading log to the library to receive a prize. After reading 1000 books, children will receive a free t-shirt. For more information, contact the library at 878-5017 or visit www.groningerlibrary.com.

Wylie Theater hosts Chapel Next Sunday services Join Chapel Next at the Wylie Theater from 10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on Sundays for contemporary Christian worship. Experience God’s goodness and grace, discover answers to life’s questions. Enjoy being spiritually revived, refreshed and fulfilled.

For more information, call at 878-2257.

Live Fire Range Schedule Ranges, training areas, and associated facilities are Off Limits to personnel not engaged in scheduled firing, operations, or inspections/recons unless clearance is obtained in person from Range Control Fire Desk (Bldg. 2432 Mulberry Island Road) or a designated Range Control Technician. All personnel are required to check in and out with range control before going into or departing any Range or Training area.

Range schedule until Feb 14: Feb. 10 – BTRAC, R1, R2, R3, R5, R6 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Feb. 11 – R2, R3 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Feb. 12 – R2 POW, R3 POW from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Feb. 13 – BTRAC, R1, R2 POW, R3 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Feb. 14 – BTRAC, R1, R2 POW, R3 from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

14

www.peninsulawarrior.com

•

Penisula Warrior - Army

LAFBCommunity 633rd FSS Fitness team transition to new PT test site The 633rd Force Support Squadron fitness section has transitioned to a new physical training test registration site as of Feb. 1, 2017. The previous sharepoint site is no longer available for PT test registration. The new PT test registration site link is https://www.milsuite. mil/book/get-started. For those who registered prior to Feb. 1, 2017 using the previous sharepoint site, the Fitness Assessment Cell has your test dates and times.

For those who still need to register for February, call, email or visit the Shellbank Fitness Center to schedule a test date and time. For more information, contact the FAC at 764-2713 or email 633FSS.FAC.FitnessAssessment@us.af.mil.

JBLE offers events in honor of Black History Month Joint Base Langley-Eustis will offer events throughout the month of Feb. in honor of Black History Month.

The events are as follows: • A MixxedFit workout will be offered at 12 p.m. at the Shellbank Fitness Center on Feb. 15, 2017. MixxedFit is a fitness program that incorporates explosive movements and boot camp toning. The class is free and 60 minutes in length.

• A Black History Month Luncheon hosted by the 633rd Air Base Wing will be held at 11 a.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center on Feb. 21, 2017. This annual luncheon is held as a culmination event for Black History Month. The guest speaker this year is Dr. Christopher L. Spells. Volunteers to help set-up, take down and escort DVs are needed during the event.

For more information or to volunteer, call 575-2875.

The Eaglewood Golf Course hosts blind draw challenge The Eaglewood Golf will host the 2 Person Blind Draw at 9 a.m. at 630 Weyland Rd, Langley Air Force Base, Va., February 18, 2017. A blind draw will be picked while members are on the course to see who their partner will be for the event. Regular tee times will be available from 8 a.m. to 8:50 a.m. and from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. For more information, call 764-4547.

Langley Chapel hosts 2017 National Prayer Luncheon The Langley Chapel will host the 2017 National Prayer Luncheon from 12 p.m. to 1 p.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center, Feb. 22, 2017. Chaplain Dondi Costin, Headquarters Chief of Chaplains, will be the guest speaker for the event. The event is free, however has limited space available. For more information, call 764-7847.

Langley 5/6 club hosts weekly meetings The Langley 5/6 club will meet at 11:30 a.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center every second Wednesday of each month. A guest speaker will join the club each month to discuss various topics. Along

•

February 10, 2017

Submit LAFB Community announcements to pw@militarynews.com with being a networking tool, the group meets to brainstorm fundraising opportunities and membership drives. For more information, call 764-0507.

Langley Chiefs’ Group sponsors 2017 Mary Matthews Scholarship The Langley Chiefs’ Group sponsors the Mary Matthews Scholarship Fund to active-duty Airmen from E-1 through E-6, stationed at Langley Air Force Base, Va., who are pursuing a college degree. Four $300 scholarships will be presented at the May 2017 Langley Chiefs’ Group meeting. Applications are available by contacting any member of the Langley Chiefs’ Group and all applications must be received by April 17, 2017.

For more information, call 764-5638.

Mindfulness Meditation Group The Langley Chapel will host a New Mindfulness Meditation Group from 11:30 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. starting Jan. 19 – March 9, 2017. Explore how to bring balance, concentration, compassion, resilience and meaning to your daily life and work through time-honored practices of mindfulness meditation and Loving Kindness. The group is free and open to all ID card holders over 18 years old. For more information or to enroll, please contact the Chapel at 764-7801.

Langley USO seeks volunteers The USO on Langley Air Force Base is in need of volunteers to keep the center open. Volunteers must have access to the base. If interested in volunteering, visit the Get Involved tab at www.hrcv.uso.org.\

Tax center opened Feb. 1 The Langley Tax Center is now open! Assistance is available at the walk-in kiosks for self-file or call for an appointment at 225-5777 for additional income tax assistance during the hours of 8 a.m.-12 p.m., MondayFriday.

The tax center is located at 402 Helms Ave., Langley Air Force Base, Va., Bldg. 801 on the basement level.

Parking is located in the back of the building. If entering the building from the front or back entrance, use the stairwell in the lobby to access the tax center on the basement level. The elevator does not work, so call in advance for assistance down the stairs.

Again, an appointment is not required to use the kiosks—the kiosks are available between 8 a.m. and 12 p.m. during the duty day. When using the kiosk, access Military OneSource, an online resource that offers free software to help prepare and file taxes online.

A consultant is available to answer any question regarding Military OneSource for free during the tax season (January through April 18, 2017) at 800-342-9647 while at the tax center or home. When using the kiosks, access to other free tax preparation sites will be available to help individuals prepare their taxes on their own. Military OneSource suggests that before starting on your tax return, gather all necessary tax documents and additional information such as the following: • Social Security numbers and dates of birth for you, your spouse and dependents • Child care, education and adoption costs • W-2 forms for all employers for you and your spouse • Investment income forms • Alimony information • Social Security benefits • Miscellaneous income • Form 1098-E for student loan interest • Form 1098 for home mortgage interest • Charitable donations • Medical and dental expenses • Real estate taxes • Rental property incomes and expenses For more information, call the Tax Center at 2255777.

JBLE Outdoor Recreation Centers open Saturdays The Langley Air Force Base and Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Centers will now open on Saturdays. The hours of operation for the Langley Outdoor Recreation Center is 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Monday through Thursday, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. The hours of operation for the Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Center is 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Monday through Friday and 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Saturday. For more information, contact the Langley Outdoor Recreation Center at 764-7170 and the Fort Eustis Outdoor Recreation Center at 878-2610.

Company Grade Officer Council welcomes members The Company Grade Officer Council will meet at 4:45 p.m. at the Bayview Commonwealth Center every third Thursday of the month and is open to all Company Grade Officers. The council has an opening for a U.S. Army officer on the council board. Join the council for professional development, social events and fun. For more information, call 764-9954.

Fort Eustis’ Groninger Library encourages reading Fort Eustis’ Groninger Library has implemented an ongoing reading program entitled “1000 Books Before Kindergarten” and “1000 Books from 1st — 5th grades.” For every 100 books read, children can take their reading log to the library to receive a prize. After reading 1000 books, children will receive a free t-shirt.

For more information, contact the library at 878-5017 or visit www.groningerlibrary.com.

NAF employment available at JBLE Joint Base Langley-Eustis is currently recruiting for nonappropriated funds positions available, with a guaranteed 20 hours per week with a flexible schedule. Areas such as marketing assistant, chef, lifeguard, custodial work and cashiers are available. For more information on employment opportunities at Fort Eustis call 878-1366 or Langley Air Force Base at 764-2992 or visit www.NAFJobs.org.

February 10, 2017

â&#x20AC;¢

Peninsula Warrior - Army

â&#x20AC;¢

15

www.peninsulawarrior.com

TO PLACE AN AD: Visit peninsulawarrior.com/place_classifieds

Classifieds

advertise your business

Â&#x201E;

Peninsula Warrior is a weekly publication aimed at military service members, family, and retirees.

Furniture-Household

Brand New Layaway Available MATTRESS SETS Full- $99, Queen- $129, King- $169 40% Military Discount on all other sets!

Can deliver: 757-706-3667 For Rent-Norfolk House GlenwoodPark Near NOB,3BR,3BA,W/D, Garage w/remote,FencedYard,757-373-0274- $1450

Automobiles for Sale Honda 2011 Accord EX-L 55853 miles, sedan, gray, automatic, leather, sunroof, excellent condition, $2000, sebo@netscape.com

% "

" "

!

SHE SNORES MORE THAN I DO, BUT I STILL LOVE MY HUMAN. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; BANDIT adopted 11-26-09

! # !

!

!

"

STAY INFORMED

PENINSULAWARRIOR.COM

16

www.peninsulawarrior.com

• The Peninsula Warrior - Army

•

February 10, 2017

2016 Heroes at Home Hampton Roads Military Spouse of the Year Spouse of Chief Elvin Bitterman, Space and Naval Warfare (SPAWAR) Systems Center Atlantic, St. Julien’s Creek

PRESENTED BY

SILVER SPONSOR

BRONZE SPONSOR

Join us in recognizing our local military spouses for their unending strength, personal sacrifices, support for other military families and for their selfless commitment to our community.

The Heroes at Home Hampton Roads Military Spouse of the Year will be chosen from nominees provided by active duty personnel from all branches of the military, spouse support groups, charitable organizations, friends and family. The 10 finalists and winner will be announced at the awards luncheon on May 4, 2017. The finalists will also be honored by Governor and Mrs. McAuliffe at a reception at the Governor’s Mansion in mid May where we will announce the Heroes at Home Virginia Spouse of the Year for each branch of service.

HOSTED BY:

MEDIA SPONSORS