Sound of Freedom - September/October 2020 by Times Media Group

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Making

History Luke airman becomes first PT assistant to bypass tech school

FIGHTING THE PANDEMIC

Arizona Army Reserve nurse part of federal COVID-19 response

Military Podcast Sound of Freedom is published bi-monthly by Times Media Group, a private publishing company. Times Media Group is in no way affiliated with Luke Air Force Base or the United States Air Force.

F I G H T E R C O U N T R Y PA R T N E R S H I P

Tote bags full of supplies were packed for Luke Air Force Base’s kids. (Submitted photos)

PandemicPlan

FCP hosts back-to-school bash with social distancing BY BILL JOHNSTON Program Director Fighter Country Foundation

ast year at this time, Fighter Country Foundation planned its largest back-to-school bash, which brought the nonprofit together with partners and supporters who wanted to help Luke Air Force Base’s kids. In 2019, Fighter Country Foundation gave fully packed backpacks and school clothes to more than 800 children. The staff thought this year’s event would be bigger and better, but then coronavirus arrived. It had to shift its plans. The event was always held on base, and it worked great. The staff quickly realized that, because of the coronavirus, it would not be that easy this year. They wondered how they could pack the backpacks and hand them out to families while keeping everyone safe. The committee brainstormed ideas and fell upon another great partner, Gila River Arena in Glendale. Volunteers could pack the backpacks in the arena’s vast indoor spaces, while the streets around the venue had ample room for drive-thru opportunities.

The Luke AFB chaplains took the lead and came up with a plan, and it was set into motion. The team packed thousands of backpacks. During the packing process, volunteers and staff served as “personal shoppers” for the kids, as the backpacks included full sets of clothes. When a family registered for the back-to-school bash, they would indicate sizes for the shorts, shirts, shoes and other items. The foundation took the list and put clothing into Cox tote bags. The next step was the drive-thru pickup. As families drove up, the airmen called

Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

into the arena with the family’s last name. Within seconds, volunteers were carrying out their backpack, clothes and toys for the younger kids. The families drove up, opened their trunks and in went the school supplies—with masks and physical distancing in place. Hundreds of families were served that day, and it was awesome. A special thanks goes out to the backto-school clothing drive, the Legacy Foundation, the Gila River Arena staff, Arizona Coyotes, Cox, Fiesta Bowl, West Valley Mavericks, Blue Blazers and the Luke AFB airmen who helped pack the backpacks and brought them to families.

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Contents

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 Publisher Steve T. Strickbine SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Making

History Luke airman becomes first PT assistant to bypass tech school

FIGHTING THE PANDEMIC

Arizona Army Reserve nurse part of federal COVID-19 response

ON THE COVER

Airman 1st Class Emily Perina, 56th Healthcare Operations Squadron physical therapist assistant. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

2 Pandemic Plan FCP hosts back-to-school bash with social distancing

31 Virtual Reality Comes to Life Lockheed Martin and Luke AFB expand innovation

10 Everyone Has a Story Veteran hosts military podcast for post-9/11 soldiers

35 56th CES Works Ahead of Schedule Squadron garners $1.4 million in funding toward infrastructure

14 Fighting the Pandemic Arizona Army Reserve nurse part of federal COVID-19 response

37 Gotta Have Art Honor ‘those who serve’ in statewide contest

16 From One Hero to Another Veteran Dr. Damon Friedman wants to make a difference 20 ‘Relationships Are Everything’ Musically Fed looks to community to feed struggling music industry 22 Supporting the Cause Kane Brown’s ‘Homesick’ is reimagined as veterans ballad 25 Reading is Fundamental Military community launches second Loaner Library 26 Lending a Hand Senior Helpers offers free VA benefit assistance

38 Air Force History Luke airman becomes first PT assistant to bypass tech school 42 Dedicated to Veterans Peoria Chamber works to promote military members 44 Dual Beneﬁt Vitalant gives donors their COVID-19 antibody status 45 Longtime Partners Singapore has teamed with Luke since 1992 46 In Closing Back-to-School Mission

28 More Than Academics Glendale Community College serves veteran students

Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Vice President Michael Hiatt Associate Group Publisher Laura Meehan, 623-777-1042 lmeehan@star-times.com Executive Editor Christina Fuoco-Karasinski 480-898-5631 christina@star-times.com Contributors Holly Bentley, Connor Dziawura, Laurie Fagen, John Heckenlaible, Bill Johnston, Senior Airman Leala Marquez, Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder, Col. Meritt Phillips, Sgt. 1st Class Kenneth Scott, Sue Thew, Airman 1st Class Dominic Tyler, Senior Airman Jacob Wongwai Graphic Design Veronica Thurman vthurman@timespublications.com Production Manager Courtney Oldham production@timespublications.com Advertising Representatives Barbara Duran, 623-847-4608 bduran@star-times.com Connie Williams, 623-847-4601 cwilliams@star-times.com Circulation

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Sound of Freedom sets high standards to ensure forestry is practiced in an environmentally responsible, socially beneficial and economically viable manner. This issue was printed on recycled fibers containing 10% post consumer waste, and with inks containing a blend of soy base. Our printer is a certified member of the Forestry Stewardship Council, the Sustainable Forestry Initiative, and additionally meets or exceeds all federal Resource Conservation Recovery Act standards.

Statements, opinions, and points of view express written consent by the writers and advertisers and are their own, and do not necessarily represent those of the publishers, editors, or Sound of Freedom staff. Although Sound of Freedom has made every effort to authenticate all claims and guarantee offers by advertisers in the magazine, we cannot assume liability for any products or services advertised herein. No part of Sound of Freedom can be reproduced or transmitted in any form without the express written consent of the publisher. The publisher reserves the right to accept or reject any editorial or advertising matter at any time.

Postmaster: Please return all undeliverable copies to Sound of Freedom, 1620 W. Fountainhead Parkway, Suite 219, Tempe, AZ 85282. All rights reserved. ®2020 Affluent Publishing LLC. Printed in the USA.

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Sound of Freedom

F E AT U R E

Everyone Has a

Story

Veteran hosts military podcast for post-9/11 soldiers

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

avid Johnson has long been passionate about the military and veterans. After three tours to Iraq, Johnson especially feels for those communities. He’s sharing his interest in them through “The David Johnson Show: Military Podcast for Post-9/11 Veterans.” The program launched in April and is available on YouTube, where it has reached 19,000 views, or thedavidjohnsonshow.com. “It’s very new,” he says. “It’s a different style podcast. There are a lot out there. This one is a video podcast. We do have some audio outlets that we’re on. It’s mainly just a hobby to tell unique stories in our com-

Veteran David Johnson wanted to give back to the military community, so he founded a podcast to discuss issues related to them. (Photo courtesy David Johnson)

munity.” His guests aren’t necessarily well known; he enjoys talking to anyone. After all, everyone has a story—including Johnson. Born in Saudi Arabia, Johnson grew up in North Phoenix and attended Shadow Mountain High School. He served in the Army from 2000 to 2006. “I joined pre-9/11,” he says. “There was nothing going on at that time. I wanted to try something new, and I was up for the adventure. I wasn’t set to go to college at the time. After the Army, I went to college on the GI Bill. I come from a long line of military members—my dad, my grandpa, uncles. I grew up around it and hearing about it.” So far, Johnson has 10 shows under his belt. He’ll start filming again in early August. The first season’s guests included Ret. Navy SEAL Craig Sawyer, 20-year military leader Keith Caraway and decorated war hero Jerry Peterson. Each of the guests

Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

uses principles learned in their business and often in their military career to enact change in their communities. Episodes focus on people who are making a difference in the lives of veterans. “I had my 21st, 22nd and 23rd birthdays in Iraq,” Johnson says. “I’m a firm believer that there is a shared culture in America among the post-9/11-era veterans. And I want to help celebrate that.” Just as each previous military generation had their stories, topics and issues—like the WWII veterans and Vietnam War veterans—post-9/11-era veterans also have their own culture, community and camaraderie, he says. “We can all grow together by opening our minds and remaining open to new ideas,” Johnson says. “If you can hear one thing in one show that makes you ask yourself a different question that opens up a new path in your life, then I feel that’s a success.” “The David Johnson Show” is produced by Promotion Board Media and is the first of several new online video shows planned for the military and veteran community. “The David Johnson Show: Military Podcast for Post-9/11 Veterans” youtube.com/watch?v=BLRwIgxuVUs

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F E AT U R E

Fighting the Pandemic Arizona Army Reserve nurse part of federal COVID-19 response BY COL. MERITT PHILLIPS AND SGT. 1ST CLASS KENNETH SCOTT Army Reserve Medical Command

n her civilian career, Jennifer Blocker is employed as a nurse who enjoys spending her free time with her mustang mare, Zipporah. In her military career, she is one of more than 200,000 citizen-soldiers serving in America’s Army Reserve. Assigned to CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-Shoreline in Corpus Christi, Texas, Maj. Blocker is one of more than 250 Army Reserve medical soldiers mobilized in support of an Urban Augmentation Medical Task Force (UAMTF) as part of the Department of Defense support to the Federal Emergency Management Agency’s response to COVID-19 in South Texas. Specifically created to respond in this time of crisis, the UAMTF is designed to augment the civilian medical community by delivering a wide range of critical medical capabilities. A member of UAMTF-7454, her team arrived in Texas late July. “When we were in-processing at the Corpus

Maj. Jennifer Blocker, an Army Reserve nurse from Glendale, with her horse Zipporah. (Photo courtesy Maj. Jennifer Blocker)

Christi Spohn Shoreline Hospital, the CEO told us how much it boosted the hospital staff ’s morale to know ‘The cavalry is coming,’” Blocker shares. “We were welcomed by both the Shoreline staff and FEMA nurses right away.” There are six UAMTFs serving hospitals in Texas, each 85-person team consisting of doctors, nurses, combat medics, respiratory therapists and ancillary personnel that expand the capacity of care that civilian medial facilities can offer their community. U.S. Northern Command has assigned approximately 590 military medical and support personnel from the U.S. Army and U.S. Navy in support of the Federal Emergency Management Agency in Texas. On her first day, Blocker was able to assist in providing a patient with life-saving treatment. “It has been an honor to help this patient population and a gift to see how much the plasma treatments I’ve administered improve a patient’s well-being right before your eyes,” she shares. A native of Chicago, Blocker earned her nursing degree from DePaul University. Her decision to serve in the Army was based on multiple factors. “To serve my nation, to take pride in Army medicine and for the opportunities,” Blocker states on why she commissioned in the Army Nurse Corps in 2006. After completing 12 years of service, Blocker left active duty in late 2018 but continued to serve in the Army Reserve. “The Army values are true. I really wanted to continue to work in Army medicine,” she states. Blocker relocated to Arizona to care for her parents and reconnect with family. Employed by Banner Health at Del Webb med-

Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Maj. Jennifer Blocker, an Army Reserve nurse from Glendale, is mobilized with an Urban Augmentation Medical Task Force assigned to CHRISTUS Spohn Hospital Corpus Christi-Shoreline in Corpus Christi, Texas, as part of the Department of Defense support to COVID-19. The task force is supporting U.S. Northern Command, through U.S. Army North, remains committed to providing ﬂexible Department of Defense support to the Federal Emergency Management Agency in support of the whole of America COVID-19 response. (Photo courtesy Maj. Jennifer Blocker)

ical center in Sun City West, Blocker lives with her father in Glendale but also spends time in Surprise with her mother. “It is bittersweet to leave my parents, but I’m proud to be able to help in this COVID-19 battle,” Blocker shares. “I support this mission completely. Every Army mission has, at its core, the American public.” Blocker’s family had understandable reactions upon learning about her mobilization. “My sister is proud and worried, as are my mother and father,” she explains. “Both of my parents believe we are about to make history and that the world will never be the same.” A friend stepped forward to support Blocker in her absence. “The stable owner agreed to not only help my horse but also both of my parents and their pets, as well as my two cats,” Blocker says. “My dad said, ‘She is doing her patriotic duty to help.’ I agree; she stepped up quickly.” Blocker shares a message to her fellow military and civilian medical colleagues serving across the nation: “Stay safe and stay resilient. We are in this together, and we’ve got each other’s backs. Army medicine will give it everything we have and keep giving.”

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F E AT U R E After all these years, nothing is worse than to see the men and women who have done extraordinary things, served this incredible country, going through all the hell and then come home, get into a really dark place and it’s so dark that they lose hope. Their life to them is meaningless. The pain is so overwhelming they’d rather end it. They use their freedom to take their freedom.

FROM ONE HERO TO ANOTHER Veteran Dr. Damon Friedman wants to make a difference BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

ith his military career wrapping up, Dr. Damon Friedman is stripping his “Superman” outfit and replacing it with civilian garb. But that doesn’t mean the fight has ended. The Downtown LA native will continue his mission of fighting enemies. As a veteran, the enemy he’s battling is suicide. “My purpose always been the same,” he says. “I’m trying to help people who can’t help themselves. I’m passionate about the issue of suicide.

Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

“After all these years, nothing is worse than to see the men and women who have done extraordinary things, served this incredible country, going through all the hell and then come home, get into a really dark place and it’s so dark that they lose hope. Their life to them is meaningless. The pain is so overwhelming they’d rather end it. They use their freedom to take their freedom.” In 2017, 45,390 American adults died from suicide, including 6,139 U.S. veterans, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs. “The suicide rate is 1.5 times greater among the veteran community,” says Friedman, who earned a doctorate in intercultural studies from Fuller. “This whole coronavirus crazy has isolated our veterans more than ever, causing a spike in suicides.” Friedman joined the White House, Department of Veterans Affairs and several nonprofits to form the Faith-Based Veteran Service Alliance to make a global impact in the fight against veteran suicide. Recently, the White House rolled out the PREVENTS Task Force Roadmap to empower veterans and end the national tragedy of suicide. President Donald Trump said this roadmap expands White House and VA partnerships to include those with faith-based leaders to establish specialized support systems for veterans. “Many of these warriors are unable to reintegrate back into civilian life, leaving their families to deal with the aftermath of broken homes and, at times, suicide,” says Friedman, president of Shield of Faith Missions and co-chairman of FBVSA. “By addressing the mind, body and soul, the warriors we serve can once again, successfully lead their families, their communities and our nation.” Friedman says his new mission is to empower people to find purpose and be resilient. “The path to wellness is different for everyone,” he says. “There isn’t one treatment to save everyone. You don’t know if that individual’s

F E AT U R E struggle is from a concussion, which changed the way our brains operate. Not everyone has PTSD. Everybody’s trauma is different. We’ve all had different experiences.” Friedman suggested taking a holistic approach. “Depending on where this person is and what they believe, they may need a psychologist, or social activities or physical therapy,” he says. “If you’re like me and banged up from the floor up, you need it all.” Rough childhood A self-described “vagabond,” Friedman lived in 14 different homes in the first 12 years of his life. “My mom had different jobs, working for minimum wage,” he says. “It was driven by my biological father, who was very abusive. The dude did everything you can imagine. He was very abusive in so many ways.” He did drugs, had anger issues, and manhandled Friedman’s mother and him. “We were running away from him,” he says. “We lived in low-income housing in Downtown LA in the projects. We went to San Juan, Puerto Rico, to try to find hope. But LA has a

special place in my heart. “I’ve been homeless before and lived out of my car. I pitched a tent, trying to get from point A to point B.” A member of Premiere Speakers Bureau, Friedman spends his time sharing his story with the public. He’s looking for speaking opportunities in Arizona. “I do travel to Southern California, often speaking in large venues that are faith-based as well as veteran military events,” says Friedman, who, on August 4, released the book “Igniting Movements: How Critical Factors and Special Ops Empower World Changers.” “Every person has a purpose. If I can make it, living in Downtown LA as a vagabond, barely passing school, flunking a grade, anyone can. I barely fricking made it. “One day, I woke up and looked at myself. I heard a voice who said, ‘I have a plan for you.’ It was the most profound voice I had ever heard, but it came during one of my darkest times as an adolescent.” Later on, he heard a different voice. This time it said he was loved and he was going to do wonderous things with his life. He decided to no longer listen to the “loser voices.”

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He became energized like a bolt of lightning. Friedman joined the military. The combat-decorated veteran served four deployments to Iraq and Afghanistan in support of the global war on terrorism. Originally a U.S. Marine Corps oﬃcer, Friedman transferred to the Air Force’s elite as a special tactics officer (combat controller) and a leader in special operations. His decorations include three Bronze Stars (one with valor) and the Air Force Combat Action Medal. He’s retiring because, he says. “It’s a young man’s game now.” “I’ve made my contribution,” he adds. “I’m just trying to figure out how now to work 20 hours a day. I just want to empower people to change the world for good. “There’s so much chaos, hate and anger. We all need to come together and have some form of unity. It’s about changing the world one life at a time.” Dr. Damon Friedman facebook.com/DrDamonFriedman damonfriedman.com

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F E AT U R E

‘Relationships Are Everything’

From left, Jayson Adamsen of Rhino Staging & Events Solutions, Mark Randall of Hubbard Radio, Eric Eismann of Video West, Maria Brunner of Musically Fed and Bill Berry of Resurrection Street Ministry recently partnered for a meal and grocery distribution drive to help entertainment/music industry workers. (Photos by Pablo Robles)

Musically Fed looks to community to feed struggling music industry BY CONNOR DZIAWURA

or the past five years, Maria Brunner has, through her organization Musically Fed, made it her mission to feed the homeless and food insecure locally—and even across the nation. By teaming up with the likes of artists, management, promoters, venues and caterers, Musically Fed traditionally helps donate leftover backstage food to other organizations—with a focus on helping veterans. A longtime music industry professional and owner of Insight Management, she started Musically Fed to help veterans in memory of her late husband, a Vietnam veteran. Then came COVID-19, and the need changed. So, the Scottsdale nonprofit’s mission evolved. “I received three (anonymous) phone calls from three people saying they had seen us backstage. They knew that we moved food

around and they were in need of food,” Brunner recalls. So, she reached out to production director Jake Berry, whom Brunner describes as “a friend and a good contact,” and was connected with labor staﬃng company Rhino Staging & Events Solutions, which noted concerns about workers being unable to get unemJerry Villaire sorts boxes at an event in which numerous organiployment with shows halted. zations and volunteers came together to help provide meal and When Brunner realized in- grocery donations to entertainment/music industry workers. dividuals such as venue and events staff and security were “What happened from that is I started in trouble, Musically Fed began holding meal reaching out to restaurants that I knew were and grocery distribution drives to help people doing decent at carry-out. I reached out to a in the entertainment/music industry—not just couple of food suppliers to see if we could do veterans. a car drive-thru, and we’ve been doing one

Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

F E AT U R E every other week,” Brunner explains. Throughout events, starting in the spring months and continuing through the summer, donations have included everything from fresh foods and produce to nonperishables, with hundreds of meals provided at some of the events. In addition to Berry and Rhino, Musically Fed has worked with the likes of Resurrection Street Ministry, Handlebar J BBQ Restaurant & Bar, Chestnut Fine Foods & Provisions, The Duce, El Pollo Loco and Tom Bihn, the latter of which has provided masks. The Van Buren and Gila River Arena hosted some of the distribution drives, too. Other organizations assisted out of state as well. After the distribution drives started, the efforts spiraled—all the way to San Diego, Denver and Nashville. Atlanta is in discussion, Brunner says. More than 22,000 meals and several thousand pounds of dry goods were donated to families in Nashville at a July event. Nonprofits received donations, too. “I did research in Nashville and, jeez … between the tornado, the pandemic and then a horrific storm that came through that we never heard about because God only knows we can only talk about our politicians—they had a storm come through the first week in June that leveled 200 houses—they have no food. And the coronavirus there is an epidemic,” Brunner says. After many Valley donation drives, Brunner says she is running out of contacts and figuring out how to move forward. “We’ve been traveling around the Valley in different restaurants that will host us,” she says. “I think I’m done. I don’t know anybody else where I can get the food, but we’re going to try to continue to get produce boxes from the farms. Resurrection Ministry is trying to help us do what we call protein boxes.” Musically Fed shows—and Brunner emphasizes—that “relationships are everything.” That can be seen in Musically Fed’s track record since its founding, which includes support provided to MANA (Marines, Army, Navy, Air Force) House, Ryan House, Phoenix Rescue Mission, Catholic Charities, Hospice of the Valley, Los Angeles Mission, The Midnight Mission and Resurrection Street Ministry. And, over the past five years, Musically Fed has partnered with the likes of Elton John,

Jaysen Adamson, Rhino, Mark Randall, Huber Radio, Eric Eismann, Video West, Mari Brummer, founder Musically Fed, Bill Berry, Resurection St Minister

Mark Martin loads food donations into a car for entertainment/music industry workers.

Fleetwood Mac, Kenny Chesney, Brantley Gilbert, The Lumineers, Shawn Mendes, Zac Brown Band, the Grammys and CMA Fest and has been supported by Florida Georgia Line, Heart, Iron Maiden, Journey and Rascal Flatts, among numerous others, in securing excess tour catering to donate. Terry Burke of Live Nation has also been one of Musically Fed’s biggest supporters, Brunner notes. “I think once they hear how simple it is and the fact that they are actually contributing to that sustainability footprint, it’s a win-win,” Brunner says. “There’s just no downside to it.” However, due to COVID-19, the organization needs help—monetary donations; large bags of dry goods, like oatmeal, cereal, flour, rice, beans, etc.; packaging, such as Ziploc bags in quart or gallon sizes; and connections that can provide goods at wholesale prices or less.

“Here in Phoenix we need food,” Brunner says. “Everywhere else, we honestly need dollar donations, because what we’re capable of buying with the dollar, no one could really buy on their own and do as much as we could. So, we just, honestly, I hate to use this word, but we kind of live hand to mouth.” Musically Fed also needs volunteers. “My hope is, as we go through these dark times, those that ‘have’ will realize there’s a lot of people that ‘don’t have’—and it’s not because they asked for this and it’s not because they don’t want to work and it’s not because they’re uneducated and it’s not because they want a handout. It’s not,” Brunner says. “I just hope people understand that this is the time we need to give.” For more information, visit musicallyfed. org; follow @MusicallyFed on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; email info@musicallyfed.org or call 480-951-1882.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 |

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Supporting the Cause Kane Brown’s ‘Homesick’ is reimagined as veterans ballad

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI

inger Kane Brown has felt homesick while touring the world in support of hits like “Used to Love You Sober,” “Heaven” and “What Ifs.” There’s another group of men and women who frequently miss home—the military fighting for our freedom abroad. So, Brown took his hit, “Homesick,” and remixed it, reimagined it as a ballad and renamed it “Homesick (Veterans Version)” with the addition of vocals from three soldiers— Generald Wilson, retired Navy 1st Class petty

Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

oﬃcer; J.W. Cortes, retired Marine Corps gunnery sergeant; and Sal Gonzales, retired Marine Corps lance corporal. “I was so surprised when I first heard them sing,” Brown says. “I didn’t know what to expect, but they made the song beautiful.” Cortes adds, “As a veteran, it means so much to work with a brand that has a long history of supporting service men and women. I want this remix to serve as an anthem for all American heroes as we continue to work together for a better tomorrow.”

I recognize the incredible importance of acknowledging the service our minority veterans have made for this country. My hope is this remix shines a light of hope and generosity, to uplift our heroes during this time.

For every stream of “Homesick (Veterans Version),” The Crown Royal Purple Bag Project will pack one bag to be donated as a care package to Glendale nonprofit Packages from Home as part of the brand’s goal of 1 million bags by December 2020. “To partner with Crown for a song that means so much to me when it comes to the military was great,” Brown says. “It was so special to have them hop on it.” They will also donate $1 to community-based nonprofit Minority Veterans of

America, up to $100,000. “It’s extremely awesome,” says Jamie Johnson, Packages from Home development associate. “We’re super thankful for the partnership with Kane Brown and Crown Royal. We’ve been partnering with Crown Royal for 10 years now. We were actually featured with them last year at various events like the CMAs. ‘Homesick (Veterans Version)’ really sat well with a lot of veterans.” Packages from Home’s mission is to serve active-duty U.S. military members stationed or deployed overseas, as well as homeless, transitioning and at-risk veterans, by providing requested food, hygiene and entertainment items to boost morale and quality of life. Crown Royal’s commitment to packing 1 million bags by the end of 2020 will further advance Packages from Home’s mission, which began in 2004 when founder Kathleen Lewis started sending care packages to her son, Christian Lewis, when he enlisted after watching the Twin Towers fall on 9/11. Kathleen began sending packages to Christian, but unfortunately, he was the only one in his unit receiving care packages, Johnson says. “Kathleen rallied her friends to send packages to the entire squad and Packages from Home was born,” Johnson adds. Last year, Packages from Home sent more than 10,000 care packages and impacted over 20,000 active-duty service members. Additionally, the organization provided over 45,000 pounds of food and 6,000 pounds of hygiene items impacting over 17,000 veterans. Personal cause For Brown, supporting the military is personal. “I’ve had family in the military, and I tried to join the military, but they wanted to make me remove my tattoos. I wasn’t going to do that,” he says. “Soldiers are always away from their families. I was awful in school, but I love war movies. That’s where I get all my knowledge. It’s

insane what they have to go through, how long they have to be away from their families, and it’s super, super dangerous. I’m just trying to give them a little support.” Brown also found it important to support Minority Veterans of America. “I recognize the incredible importance of acknowledging the service our minority veterans have made for this country,” Brown says. “My hope is this remix shines a light of hope and generosity, to uplift our heroes during this time.” With his No. 1 Billboard 200 release “Experiment,” Brown became the only male country artist in more than 24 years to debut at the top of the Billboard 200, and only one of three country artists to top the Billboard 200 chart all year (2018). The AMA, ACM, Billboard and People’s Choice Award winning and nominated artist is one of only five country acts with multiple fivetimes platinum hits (joining Luke Bryan, Florida Georgia Line, Sam Hunt and Taylor Swift). Brown first topped the Billboard Top Country Albums chart with the release of his self-titled debut album (2016) and again with the release of “Kane Brown (Deluxe Edition)” in 2017, which debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard Top Country Albums and Top 5 on Billboard 200. These days, Brown is missing the stage, due to the coronavirus pandemic. Instead, he’s writing new music and hoping to release an album this year. “It’s driving me insane,” he says. “I’m ready to get back out there on tour. I was cool for the first couple months. Now I don’t know what to do.” He recently celebrated the release of his third EP, “Mixtape, Vol. 1,” which includes “Cool Again” with Nelly, “Be Like That” with Khalid and Swae Lee and “Worldwide Beautiful,” the latter of which benefits the Boys and Girls Clubs of America. He calls the “Cool Again” and “Be Like That” videos “probably the best videos I’ve ever made.” “Nelly was just fun. It’s like we’d been friends forever,” he says. “Khalid, I’ve known for a little bit. I introduced them to a new drink they had never had. It’s a cheap college drink, Rumple Minze. It’s 100 proof, and it literally tastes like you put mouthwash in your mouth. It’s super dangerous, but we had fun.” Packages from Home: packagesfromhome.org Crown Royal’s Purple Bag: crownroyal.com/purple-bag-project Kane Brown: kanebrownmusic.com

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 |

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ALWAYS THE “NEW KID” We never owned a home, we always rented. Therefore it is important to me to teach the younger people to invest in a home and create wealth for their future, rather than paying someone else’s mortgage by renting.

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F E AT U R E

Lauren McKinley, 944th Aeromedical Staging Squadron management support specialist, left, and her husband, Staff Sgt. Eric McKinley, 56th Component Maintenance Squadron real property specialist, pose next to the Loaner Library on July 28 at Luke Air Force Base. Located in the Ocotillo Manor neighborhood near the intersection of Walpai and Kiowa, the mini-library houses two shelves where individuals can take a book and leave one in its place. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

Reading is Fundamental Military community launches second Loaner Library BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS BROOKE MOEDER AND SENIOR AIRMAN JACOB WONGWAI 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

uke Airmen have created a resource to help educate children while bringing the community together. Nine individuals, including sponsors who donated resources, contributed to the creation of the Loaner Library, located in the Ocotillo Manor neighborhood near the intersection of Walpai and Kiowa. The Loaner Library is a standalone, hand-constructed shelving unit that can house up to 50 books free for community members to exchange. While Luke’s Library donated the initial stock of books, the Loaner Library is a resource located in family housing where military families are encouraged to exchange books at no cost. “The Loaner Library is a nice addition to the neighborhood where families take walks during these (physical) distancing times,” says Miana Atkins, 56th Fighter Wing Staff Agency key spouse and Ocotillo Manor resident. “It will

Two brothers return books to the Loaner Library on July 28 at Luke Air Force Base. The library holds up to 50 books available for airmen and their families. Located in the Ocotillo Manor neighborhood near the intersection of Walpai and Kiowa, the free mini-library provides books for families to take and leave a new one in its place. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

be a nice stopping point and something educational and fun for the kids to look forward to.” Staff Sgt. Eric McKinley, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron real property specialist, constructed the Loaner Library, and his wife, Lauren McKinley, 944th Aeromedical Staging Squadron management support specialist, painted the box. McKinley planned, engraved and built the design within 20 hours. The mini-library houses two shelves, each holding around 25 books. Double doors protect the books from the environment. “The tiny library is a fascinating concept that we have always found interesting,” Eric says. “By creating an inviting library, we are able to encourage young people and adults to take some time out of their day to read a new book and expand their minds.” The library’s “attic” features a hand-painted scene. “The neatest part about it is up top there is natural knot in the wood,” Eric explains. “I filled it with resin, and my wife painted a nebula around it. I put a little runway scene with little Thunderbird airplane models. The back of the box also has an acrylic window that shows you clearly what’s inside.” The McKinleys volunteered their time while

InstantHandz covered the cost of the materials. “Reading is fundamental,” says Adam Evans, InstantHandz chief strategy officer. “The most important thing is that children and adults enjoy it. Sometimes it’s nice to go back to a book and enjoy the adventures that await you there.” The original Loaner Library is in front of a playground next to the Community Management Office. While Loaner Libraries provide free books, it is still important for individuals who take and leave books to sanitize each one to help reduce the spread of COVID-19. Eric says he hopes the library will encourage children to read more and enhance their reading and imagination abilities. “It’s a way to leave this place a little bit better than when I got here,” Eric says. “We saw it as an opportunity to use our imagination and create something that people would be drawn to.” While there are two Loaner Libraries on base, Evans hopes these will inspire the implementation of more. “I wish there was one on every block,” Evans says. “But I think this is a great starting point, and hopefully it’ll encourage other people to do things for our community.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 |

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F E AT U R E

Lending

a Hand

Senior Helpers offers free VA benefit assistance BY HOLLY BENTLEY

onoring veterans and all they have done to serve the country is essential at Senior Helpers. The organization is expressing its gratitude by helping veterans with VA-covered tasks. “Many veterans have no idea that we have representatives available who can walk them through the entire process from start to finish,” says Senior Helpers of Scottsdale owner Tiffany Phelan. “There are currently thousands of Arizona veterans who qualify for the VA Aid and Attendance benefit, which provides in-home assistance, but are unaware or uncertain how to access it.” Local veteran Paul Welker, who was drafted into the Army in 1967 and served 14 months in Vietnam, is visited three times a week by a Senior Helpers caregiver to help him with daily tasks after surviving a stroke and having hip replacement surgery. “In the beginning, it was very tough for me to get in and out of the

Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

shower, but things are at least 75% better now when it comes to managing my pain,” Welker says. “I find her things that I need done that I can barely do by myself. I couldn’t ask for a better person.” That “person” is Senior Helpers caregiver Charlene Cupp, who is a certified nursing assistant. With more than 27 years of experience, she has helped many veterans from 30 to 100 years old. “They need the care, and they appreciate it,” Cupp says. “A lot of them couldn’t complete their activities of daily living without Senior Helpers. I know what they’ve done for our country, and to see them smile is just amazing.” Veterans who served a minimum of 90 days of active duty, including one day of active duty during a period of war or conﬂict such as World War II or the Korean or Vietnam conﬂicts, may qualify for this benefit. “As experts in the senior care industry, we understand the needs of veterans,” Phelan says. “We work seamlessly with professional assistance organizations to make sure they and their spouses receive the benefits they deserve as quickly as possible.” Senior Helpers will guide veterans and their families through the process of understanding if they qualify for the benefit. They will then put them in touch with an accredited agent who can assist with the application process of a fully developed claim, which is processed more quickly and is more likely to be approved. Some claims are approved in as little as 30 to 60 days. “After a thorough assessment, we create an individualized plan of care, customized to meet the veteran’s unique needs,” Phelan says. “That plan is also designed to preserve their independence and freedom, while allowing them to remain in the comfort of their home.” Services for veterans through Senior Helpers include bathing, dressing, grooming, medication management, light housekeeping, meal planning and preparation, transportation to and from appointments, and companionship. “It may be surprising to some, but companionship for our veterans is crucial during this time,” says Senior Helpers of Tempe adviser John Skelton, a former NFL quarterback. “After months of sheltering in place and remaining socially distant from family members, there has been a definite increase in anxiety and depression due to the pandemic.” While Welker relies on Cupp to help him with daily tasks, they have also built an incredible friendship. “She came over this morning with a birthday cake, always going above and beyond what she was called for,” Welker says. “I’m not sure what the future holds, but one way or another I would like to continue my friendship with Charlene.” In addition to day-to-day tasks or errands, Senior Helpers also aid individuals with Parkinson’s disease, Alzheimer’s disease and other neurodegenerative disorders. The list of services is extensive, and Welker wants to encourage other veterans to, at the very least, schedule a call with Senior Helpers. “I would tell them don’t be afraid to go forward, because your service is such a blessing. I used to let go and give to God, and now Charlene has taken over for him,” Welker says. Senior Helpers seniorhelpers.com

THE EL ELMIRAGE MIRAGE CITY CITY COUNCIL THE THANKS THANKS THE MEN AND AND WOMEN OF LUKE AIR FORCE BASE FOR THEIR THEIR SERVICE FOR SERVICE Mayor Mayo r

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F E AT U R E

OUR MISSION Support the men, ION OUR MISS women, families, and ort the men, p p u S mission of Luke AFB. milies, and

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lendale Community College is fully committed to serving those who have served and sacrificed so much for the nation. For that reason, GCC established the Veterans Services Center soon after the college opened with an expansion and remodel of the facilities three years ago. All of this was done with the singular goal of assisting veterans and their dependents as they navigated their way from military life to civilian life and, more specifically, college life. “We understand that the transition can be challenging,” says Christina Izaguirre, GCC Veterans Services Center’s interim manager. “We provide academic support and guidance, but we look at all of the needs of veterans and their families. That is why we team up with numerous support organizations, so we can help holistically with basic needs like employment, food, housing and transportation.” Veterans and their dependents who utilize the GCC Veteran Services Center can expect a full range of academic support services from the four full-time advisers and four part-time workstudy staff. “Veterans can get jobs on campus, as long as they are enrolled

F E AT U R E

★ LET FREEDOM RING ★

as a student with a nine-credit load or more. In fact, each of the work-study employees in the Veterans Services Center are veterans enrolled at GCC.” The GCC Veterans Services Center is a one-stop shop for veterans who want to improve their life through higher education. GCC provides a wide range of academic opportunities, from certificates of completion to degrees and from refresher classes to getting credits as they work toward transferring to a university, starting a career, or climbing the ladder at their current workplace. The academic advisers in the Veterans Services Center serve the role of VA certifying officials. The advisers assist in planning academic paths; identifying federal and state benefit options; certifying education benefits; and connecting veterans with services, both on campus and in the surrounding community. In addition to Active Duty Military Tuition Assistance, the GCC Veterans Services Center services six different VA education benefits. It also guides student veterans through degree planning as well as class selection and registration. The academic advisers at the GCC Veterans Services Center are deeply knowledgeable on the countless scholarship and financial aid options that are available to veterans and can guide them on the most appropriate path. Glendale Community College is proud to be the school of choice for such a large population of veterans. It will continue to serve veterans with the same pride that our veterans exhibited when they served the United States.

Youngtown proudly supports Luke Air Force Base and our brave aviators who put themselves in harm’s way while protecting our freedoms. Fulfillment of their mission is critical to our region, the state and the nation.

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F E AT U R E

Virtual Reality Comes to Life Lockheed Martin and Luke AFB expand innovation BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS DOMINIC TYLER 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Airman 1st Class Delwyn Travillion, 56th Component Maintenance Squadron aircrew egress systems apprentice, left, trains on a virtual reality maintenance trainer while Tech. Sgt. Ian Rider, 56th CMS aircrew egress systems craftsman, monitors training. The egress shop is responsible for the overall integrity of the emergency ejection seat system in the F-35A Lightning II. The egress shop implemented the virtual reality maintenance trainer to enhance training efficiency and reduce training time. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dominic Tyler)

he 56th Component Maintenance Squadron’s Egress Systems Flight partnered with Lockheed Martin to work on two innovative technologies that aim to enhance F-35A Lightning II egress maintenance training. Working closely with Lockheed Martin, the egress shop implemented the Virtual Reality Maintenance Trainer and the use of a full-size 3D print of the F-35 canopy. The goal of these new projects is to reduce the time for training tasks by 50%. The Egress Systems Flight ensures the overall integrity of the emergency ejection seat system in the F-35A Lightning II. “Without the proper implementation and maintenance of this system, it could be the difference between life and death of the pilot,” says Master Sgt. Joseph Scalise, 56th Component Maintenance Squadron aircrew egress systems section chief. “We are the pilot’s last-ditch effort in the event of an aircraft malfunction or system failure.” According to Scalise, training for various maintenance tasks for this field can be fairly time consuming, and rather than using components that are needed for operational F-35s, the team created their own training

Senior Airman Matthew Romano, 56th Component Maintenance Squadron aircrew egress systems journeyman, left, trains Airman 1st Class Delwyn Travillion, 56th CMS aircrew egress systems apprentice, on the installation of a ﬂexible linear shaped charge (FLSC). The FLSC install is a 120-hour process, and the charge must be replaced every three years. Training of this task is essential to the overall integrity of the F-35A Lightning II canopy. (U.S. Air Force photo

by Airman 1st Class Dominic Tyler)

aids to ensure maintainers have plenty of hands-on practice. “Traditional teaching methods rely on a multi-style teaching structure; different styles such as visual, auditory, tactile and kinesthetic,” says Kris Velazquez, Lockheed Martin system engineer. “The Virtual Reality system

offers the capability to simultaneously teach across all four learning styles, creating a big impact on training proficiency. With the VR system, a member can obtain the basic knowledge of the F-35 egress system in a few hours.” While the VR Maintenance Trainer is effective, it is not intended to replace traditional

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 |

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The Maricopa Community College District does not discriminate on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, disability or age in its programs or activities. For Title IX/504 concerns, call the following number to reach the appointed coordinator: (480) 731-8499. For additional information, as well as a listing of all coordinators within the Maricopa College system, visit: www.maricopa.edu/non-discrimination

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Airman 1st Class Delwyn Travillion, 56th Component Maintenance Squadron aircrew egress systems apprentice, trains on a virtual reality maintenance trainer. The Egress Systems Flight implemented the virtual reality maintenance trainer to enhance training efficiency and reduce training time. The 56th Fighter Wing’s mission is to train the world’s greatest fighter pilots and combat-ready airmen. (U.S. Air

Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dominic Tyler)

hands-on egress training, Scalise says. The VR system is complementary to hands-on training; it advances and reinforces a member’s hands-on training, Velazquez says. Additionally, Lockheed Martin and Luke AFB have created the 3D print of the F-35 canopy. The creation of this replica, says Scalise, introduces training opportunities that were not previously obtainable. One area where this will make a significant difference is with lengthy and precise training required on the installation of a ﬂexible linear shaped charge (FLSC). “We often refer to the installation of the FLSC as an art rather than a skill,” Scalise says. “This is a 120-hour process that must be implemented with zero errors. Taking time to train on this task would drastically lengthen the aircraft downtime. With the new 3D replica, we now have 24-hour access to training on this essential task.” Though these projects to advance training are new, Velazquez says he expects great promise for the future of their partnership between Lockheed Martin and the Air Force. “The feedback we received from the Air Force in the development of this technology was a hugely invaluable recourse for us,” Velasquez says. “You could tell they were energized to become more efficient. That type of culture definitely rubs off on us and really makes us want to better the Air Force as a whole.” With the success of these training projects in the pursuit for expansive innovation, the partnership between Luke’s Egress Systems Flight and Lockheed Martin could be a catalyst for future technological advancements, according to Michael Morreale, Lockheed Martin Luke F-35 chief of maintenance. “I see that in the future these training advancements have application, not just Air Force-wide but throughout all of our partner nations in the F-35 consortium,” Morreale says. “You have to remember we work on aircraft and train pilots from all over the globe.” While Luke’s partnership with Lockheed Martin is expanding innovation in F-35 training, it also represents more opportunities of a collaborative effort to enable the wing’s core mission: to train the world’s greatest fighter pilots and combat-ready airmen.

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Second Lt. Ben Rieben, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron Operations Element requirements and optimization officer in charge, presents a base map on the current status of infrastructure across the installation. The color of each building indicates the relative state of that facilities overall infrastructure. The 56th CES builds, maintains and protects the future of airpower through ensuring a safe work environment. (U.S. Air Force

photo by Airman 1st Class Dominic Tyler)

56th CES Works Ahead of Schedule Squadron garners $1.4 million in funding toward infrastructure BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS DOMINIC TYLER 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

he 56th Civil Engineer Squadron Operations Element garnered a $1.4 million bonus toward Luke AFB infrastructure with 100% of Luke facilities and assets in inventory three months ahead of schedule. Despite the hardship brought on by COVID-19, the 56th CES was one of two bases across Air Education Training Command (11 total installations) able to accomplish the Installation Mission Support Center incentives, providing additional funding toward Luke AFB infrastructure. “The IMSC incentivizes operations engineering to inventory 90% of our assets on Luke to earn a 10% bonus on our budget,” says Capt. Cody Beemer, 56th CES Operations Element chief. “We hit 100% three months ahead of schedule.” The 56th CES builds, maintains and protects the future of airpower. It accomplishes this mission through ensuring a safe work environment for approximately 7,000 people living and working on Luke. “We had to keep working shifts to make

sure we could continue working towards that incentive funding,” says 2nd Lt. Benjamin Rieben, 56th CES Operations Element requirements and optimization officer in charge. “That’s how we were able to actually get 100% inventory several months ahead of schedule to secure that funding for infrastructure.” According to Rieben, using current data analytics on infrastructure is key when it comes to decision making for the future distribution of funding of any assets or facilities on base. “When it comes to Luke, you have to keep in mind that the average age of our buildings are 35 years old,” Rieben ways. “We have to be smart with how we invest, and that’s where data analysis really comes into play. We really have to be thinking in the long term when it comes to our infrastructure.” The Operations Element acquires data to provide support for facility construction and base utilities such as water, electric and internet. Various CE agencies, such as plumbing, electrical and structural maintenance, collect data during routine maintenance and provide their findings to the Operations Element. CES airmen continue to perform building assessments and acquire current analytics, even as COVID-19 continues to change the way agencies perform daily operations and

Senior Airman Natalee Barker, 56th Civil Engineer Squadron Operations Element operations manager, speaks with a customer to obtain needed infrastructure data for the requirements and optimization team. Engineers use the data to determine the order of priority of work orders before assigning teams to take action. The 56th CES builds, maintains and protects the future of airpower through ensuring a safe work environment for nearly 7,000 personnel who live and work on base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Dominic Tyler)

maintenance. “We collect and use data to determine where we can most effectively invest our money on Luke’s infrastructure,” Beemer says. “That way everyone around base can get the mission done, not only today but also 25 years in the future.” The 56th CES Operations Element has consistently achieved the IMSC’s incentives and is anticipating a similar bonus for the 2021 fiscal year. Beemer and Rieben both stress the importance of sustaining a safe and enduring infrastructure so that Luke AFB can continue its mission to train the world’s greatest fighter pilots and combat-ready airmen. “We can’t stop producing fighter pilots,” Beemer says. “If we put a break in that chain of training, then we don’t have fighter pilots five years down the road. Being able to continue our operation is essential to accomplishing the mission.”

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BY LAURIE FAGEN

rom the military to health care workers, Arizona students in kindergarten to 12th grade are invited to enter Sonoran Arts League’s first “Honoring Those Who Serve” art contest, with electronic art submissions due September 20. Top winners in each grade of the juried online competition, with judges from the nonprofit Sonoran Arts League, will receive cash prizes or free workshops and have their art on community “art cards” that will be sold by the league to benefit its outreach programs, art education and “Art in Public Places.” Winners will be announced in November, and the artwork will be exhibited in the league’s Center for the Arts at Stagecoach Plaza during Hidden in the Hills from November 20 to November 22 and from November 27 to November 29. Up to 26 awards will be given. “Your canvas is blank and waiting for you to free your imagination with an array of color and style,” Youth Art Chairwoman Robin Ray says. “Create artwork expressing your thanks and appreciation to someone who has made a difference in your life and help honor those who serve in our communities and country.” This can include a doctor, nurse or other health care worker; military veteran; firefighter, police officer or civil servant; educator or art teacher; sports coach or athletics mentor; or parent, grandparent or caregiver. All Arizona public, private, charter and home-schooled students may enter one piece of original artwork in any medium. Computer-generated images and traced images will not be judged. Photograph the artwork and save a high-resolution image. Register the entry and submit the photo online at sonoranartsleague.org by clicking on the Art Education tab and Art Contest. Do not send original artwork. “The challenge is on to use creativity and imagination to put your thoughts into art,” league board member Sarah Byrne adds. “The league promotes creativity through art as an effective method for artists of all ages to express their dreams and ideas for a successful life and a better community.” The Sonoran Arts League is committed to advancing art, artists and art education, with a special focus on mentoring youth, believing that arts training helps develop the abilities to focus and strengthens cognitive skills in young people.

Young artists in grade K-12 can enter a summer art contest. (Photo courtesy Sonoran Arts League)

The league fosters artistic growth with scholarship awards for graduating seniors, incentive awards and art supplies, art experiences and field trips, art workshops, an educational program, and youth art exhibits in “Art in Public Places.” Info: sonoranartsleague.org, 480-575-6624 The City of Peoria is a champion of Luke Air Force Base and works hard to protect the Base to ensure their mission’s viability for years to come.

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO

On behalf of the Mayor and Council, City management and staff, we want to say “THANK YOU” for your service and dedication to our country.

City of Peoria

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 |

Sound of Freedom

F E AT U R E Airman 1st Class Emily Perina, 56th Healthcare Operations Squadron physical therapist assistant, performs a passive range of motion exercise on a patient at the physical therapy clinic at Luke Air Force Base. In a move that saved the Air Force approximately $29,000 in training costs, the Air Force waived Perina’s requirement to attend technical school, making her the first PTA to report to its first duty station directly from basic training. Perina enlisted in the Air Force with an associate degree in PTA, a PTA license in Florida and four years of work experience, completing the certifications needed to bypass tech school. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

Air Force

History Luke airman becomes ﬁrst PT assistant to bypass tech school BY AIRMAN 1ST CLASS BROOKE MOEDER 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

n enlisted physical therapy assistant assigned to the 56th Medical Group became the first airman to complete basic military training and direct transfer to her first duty station, Luke Air Force Base, bypassing technical training. Prior to joining the Air Force, Airman 1st Class Emily Perina, 56th Healthcare Operations Squadron physical therapist assistant, completed an associate degree in PTA, held an active PTA license in Florida and had four years of work experience in outpatient/sports

medicine—everything required to satisfy tech training requirements. As a result, the Air Force waived her technical training and saved more than $29,000. “The importance behind A1C Perina skipping technical school and reporting straight to her duty station is simple,” says Tech. Sgt. Geoffrey Rigby, 56th HCOS surgical services ﬂight chief. “Her PTA license is a higher qualification than one would earn from graduating tech school. This is a license that only 12.6% of the physical medicine career field holds.” “I found out I was skipping tech school from my recruiter,” Perina says. “He showed me an email saying I’m making Air Force history.”

Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

Perina learned she was skipping tech school through an email her recruiter showed her. She said she felt a rush of emotions overcome her: surprise, shock and pride in knowing she graduated BMT and is making history at the same time. “I feel like there’s lots of importance from this opportunity,” Perina says. “I see it as a possible program for those who are already licensed PTAs to come into the Air Force. I feel as though other programs like the one I went through could possibly be set up for other career fields, overall saving the Air Force money.” While Perina acknowledges that she may have missed experiences other Airmen receive in tech school, she said she’s excited to

F E AT U R E

Airman 1st Class Emily Perina, 56th Healthcare Operations Squadron physical therapist assistant, left, uses a goniometer to measure a patient’s range of motion at the physical therapy clinic at Luke Air Force Base. In a move that saved the Air Force approximately $29,000 in training costs, the Air Force waived Perina’s requirement to attend technical school, making her the first PTA to report to its first duty station directly from basic training. Perina enlisted in the Air Force with an associate degree in PTA, a PTA license in Florida and four years of work experience, completing the certifications needed to bypass tech school. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Brooke Moeder)

contribute to the mission. “… It’s just one of those things,” Perina says. “You have to get used to being dropped into normal life.” Perina found a couple of Air Education and Training Command Form 341s, which are used in BMT to track discrepancies and excellence, in her pocket after arriving at Luke. She forgot they were in there because she’s so used to having them on her, she jokes. Perina grew up in Florida and says she found her love for physical therapy while in high school interning at a hospital to become

a nurse. She changed to physical therapy because she wanted to work with patients one on one. “My first patient was unable to walk,” Perina says. “I worked with him for about eight weeks, and at the end of it he was able to walk with a cane. It was a very fulfilling feeling and being able to work with patients one on one and develop that relationship. That’s why I wanted to do it. I love helping people and I love fitness, so it was the perfect opportunity.” Perina says she joined the Air Force because she needed a change of scenery and sought opportunities to further her education and travel. One of her patients, a Navy recruiter, talked to her and motivated her to join the military. Airman 1st Class Emily Perina, 56th Healthcare Operations “I’ve been told the Air Squadron physical therapist assistant. (U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Force is the way to go,” 1st Class Brooke Moeder) Perina says. “That’s when

I saw a recruiter and never looked back. I knew I was making the right decision when I walked into that office.” Perina plans to use her four years of PTA experience to help Luke Airmen maintain physical health. She said there are always new things to learn and she will continue to renew her Florida PTA license every two years. “She is already a subject matter expert in many areas, and we look forward to her insight from her past experience in the civilian sector,” Rigby says. “New and different viewpoints are always encouraged to help progress changes and increase the quality of patient care.” He said Perina’s civilian experience will advance the Luke’s PTA program and its ability to support airmen. “What sets her apart from other PTAs is definitely her high level of knowledge,” Rigby says. “I am not ashamed to say that I, with 10 years’ experience, have been learning new things from her lately. I have never had a three-level (job skill level) airman with this amount of experience and intellect. The Air Force is very fortunate to have her on board performing as a seasoned PTA.”

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 |

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Dedicated to Veterans Peoria Chamber works to promote military members BY PEORIA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE

est Valley veterans and businesses have a new resource and home to help each other thrive and grow. The Peoria Chamber of Commerce has a 101-year history of supporting veterans through its Military Affairs Committee. Although the MAC has been an ongoing Peoria Chamber contributing committee, the new executive leadership recognized significant changes were required to increase and improve the support and positive impact MAC could have on the lives of the veterans and their families who call Peoria their home. “When I became the president and CEO of the Peoria Chamber of Commerce, one of my first objectives was to take a hard look at our committees to see what was working and what

needed to change,” Scot Andrews says. “With the Military Affairs Committee, we needed leadership, buy-in and committee members to come to the table on behalf of our community.” In 2019, Maj. Brandon Bettis was appointed the MAC chairman. A financial professional and U.S. Army Reserve officer, Bettis says he believes in helping military service members make a successful transition and hopefully call Peoria home. He understands the challenges of small-business owners, being one himself. He wants to see Peoria veterans come together and help each other build a stronger community. The MAC’s first event was on Veterans Day 2019 at the Arrowhead Valley Retirement Resort. The committee sponsored and organized a day of guest speakers, military-themed movies and a barbecue for residents and veterans. Rep. Debbie Lesko and Peoria Mayor Cathy Carlat attended to show support. This year, the MAC organized a veteran

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The city of Surprise invites you to visit an outdoor garden and reflection space in honor of late Surprise resident and combat wounded veteran Brian Mancini. The space pays tribute to Mancini and his legacy of helping fellow veterans by telling his story and providing a place for veterans to reflect, find healing and feel the community’s deep appreciation for their service and sacrifice. Please follow guidelines of social distancing when visiting.

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job hiring fair to bring together businesses looking to hire top talent and help “underemployed” veterans with their job search. Sponsors included Desert Diamond Casino, New Horizons, Liberty Mutual and Principal Financial Group. The event was canceled due to COVID-19, but the MAC is hoping to recreate the event next year. “Our biggest challenge right now is recruiting veterans and patriots to serve on the committee and come to the table ready to work on behalf of West Valley veterans, small business owners, and their families,” Bettis says. “My goal is to make a positive impact for transitioning service members, link them up with mentors in the community and build our partnerships in Peoria.” To get involved, contact Bettis at 602-4213832 or the Peoria Chamber of Commerce at 623-979-3601. For more information, visit peoriachamber.com/committees or find it on Facebook by searching “Peoria Chamber of Commerce, Military Affairs Committee.”

Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

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AIRMAN & FAMILY READINESS CENTER NEVER THE WRONG PLACE TO GO! MILITARY MEMBERS, DOD CIVILIANS* & FAMILIES

The Luke Airman and Family Readiness Center is projected to be closed until the end of September 2020 due to the Coronavirus. We will be available to receive phone calls at (623) 856-6550 Monday-Friday 7:30 am - 4:30 pm for routine and emergency Airman and Family Readiness Center Business. We look forward to serving you in person again soon! Everyone stay safe and take care of yourselves. Contact us for further information: (623) 856-6550 Email: 56fss.fsfr@luke.af.mil 7282 N. 137th Ave. Bldg.1113 Luke AFB, AZ. 85309 “We’re never the wrong place to go!” *Limited Services for DoD Civilians and their families

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 |

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NEWS

Dual Benefit Vitalant gives donors their COVID-19 antibody status BY SUE THEW Vitalant

or a limited time, Vitalant is testing all blood donations for antibodies to SARS-CoV-2, the coronavirus that causes COVID-19. The nation’s largest independent nonprofit blood collector—serving hospital patients in Arizona—is providing the test results to donors who complete successful blood donations. Donors are urged to give blood as soon as possible. Appointments are strongly recommended; visit vitalant.org or call 1-877-25-VITAL (877-258-4825).

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Sound of Freedom | SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020

The COVID-19 antibody tests are part of a full panel of tests that Vitalant performs on successful blood donations. (Photo courtesy Vitalant)

Authorized by the Food and Drug Administration, the antibody test indicates if the donors’ immune system has produced antibodies to the virus, regardless of whether they ever showed symptoms. It is possible that over time, the broad use of antibody tests and clinical follow-up will provide the medical community with more information on whether a person who has recovered from COVID-19 is at a lower risk of infection, and if so, for how long. For more information, visit vitalant.org/antibodytest. “While a positive antibody test does not mean that someone is immune to COVID-19, it does mean that they may be eligible to donate convalescent plasma in the future and help people with the disease,” says Cliff Numark, Vitalant’s chief of marketing. “Convalescent plasma can be given directly to patients currently battling COVID-19 to help boost their ability to fight their illness.” Vitalant began collecting and distributing convalescent plasma in April. For more information, visit vitalant.org/COVIDfree. Donations of all blood types are needed, with an especially high need for type O-positive, O-negative, A-negative and B-negative red blood cells. In addition, platelets are always needed by patients for cancer treatments, surgeries and emergencies. Because of its short shelf life—only 5 days—the supply of platelets must be continually replenished. The antibody tests are part of a full panel of tests that Vitalant performs on successful blood donations. Donors are not charged for the tests, and costs are subsidized, in part, by The Blood Center Foundation of the Inland Northwest and The Bonfils Blood Center Donor Advised Fund. Donors will be able to see their results approximately two weeks after donating by logging into their online donor accounts.

I N C LO S I N G

Republic of Singapore Air Force Military Expert One Staff Sgt. Concenciao Axel, 425th Fighter Squadron maintainer, performs maintenance on an F-16C Fighting Falcon.

Longtime Partners Singapore has teamed with Luke since 1992 BY SENIOR AIRMAN LEALA MARQUEZ AND AIRMAN 1ST CLASS BROOKE MOEDER 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Republic of Singapore Air Force Capt. Tan Wei Yang, 425th Fighter Squadron pilot, stands beside an RSAF F-16D Fighting Falcon. Republic of Singapore Air Force Military Expert One Staff Sgt. Concenciao Axel, 425th Fighter Squadron maintainer, inspects the inside of an F-16C Fighting Falcon.

he Republic of Singapore Air Force Military has specialists at Luke Air Force Base working with the F-16C Fighting Falcon. The F-16 is a multirole fighter that, in an air-to-surface role, can ďŹ&#x201A;y more than 500 miles, deliver its weapons with accuracy, defend itself against enemy aircraft and return to its starting point. RSAF personnel have trained at Luke AFB for more than 27 years, making the 425th FS one of the longest-operating overseas detachments for the RSAF. The RSAF is among six foreign national partners that train at Luke AFB, which directly contributes to the mission of training the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s greatest fighter pilots and combat-ready airmen.

Republic of Singapore Air Force Military Expert One Staff Sgt. Concenciao Axel, 425th Fighter Squadron maintainer, performs maintenance on an F-16C Fighting Falcon.

Republic of Singapore Air Force Military Expert Two Second Warrant Officer Kong Kum Cheong, 425th Fighter Squadron maintainer, gathers aircraft parts at Luke Air Force Base.

From left, Republic of Singapore Air Force Military Expert One Staff Sgt. Chan Jun Heng Andy, Military Expert Two Master Sgt. Teo Choh Hwai and ME2 Master Sgt. Tan Hock Leng, 425th Fighter Squadron maintainers, prepare to install an LAU-129 missile onto an F-16D Fighting Falcon.

SEPTEMBER/OCTOBER 2020 |

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I N C LO S I N G

Back-to-School Mission PHOTOS BY PABLO ROBLES

he Military Assistance Mission, an Arizona-based nonprofit that provides financial support and morale to military families, hosted its Back-to-School Mission at Sanderson Ford on North 51st Avenue in Glendale with National Bank of Arizona and New Horizons Computer Learning Centers. In addition to the supplies provided by National Bank of Arizona, New Horizons Learning Centers donated a ruler for each backpack and Sanderson Ford offered the children full, clear face shields for kids to wear when in-person learning resumes. Info: azmam.org.

Pageant queens, from left, Janille McCain, Sydney Anger and Amberlin Rose made a special appearance at the event.

From left, Samantha Teeter, Taylor Marey, Rylie Teeter, Kelsey Amator and Kelly Seiberlich helped hand out backpacks.

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Military Assistance Mission Executive Director Mark Boehm gives backpacks to military children.

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New Horizons Computer Learning Centers’ staff helped support the Military Assistance Mission’s goal of handing out backpacks.

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