Raven training at Ramstein

48 Pages·2017·26.14 MB·English

NEWS FEATURES LIFESTYLES
Check out Valentine’s messages USAFE Band wins Air Force award, The King of NASCAR visits Ramstein, Fasching celebrations continue
and offers, Pages 20-25 Page 3 Page 10 through Tuesday, Page 16
February 9, 2018 | Volume 42, Number 6 Read the KA also online at www.KaiserslauternAmerican.com
Blood, sweat, tears: Raven training at Ramstein
Story and photos by
Senior Airman Joshua Magbanua
86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Th e gym echoed with sounds of
bodies hitting the fl oor as instructors
watched their students wrestle each
other to the ground.
Th e students trained tirelessly for
the past week and were showing signs
of wear and tear: cuts, bruises, and red,
sweaty faces steaming with pain.
Th eir instructors watched with
stoic faces and eyes as cold as ice; if
the students can’t handle the heat here,
how can they handle it when they are
on a real mission?
“Keep your heads off the mat,”
yelled one of the instructors. “What
are you doing? Come on, fi gure it out!”
“Find a way to get out of that
choke-hold,” yelled another.
This is the Phoenix Raven
Participants in the Phoenix Raven Qualifi cation Course practice combatives Jan. 29 on Ramstein Air Base. Raven instructors assigned to the 421st Combat Training
See RAVEN TRAINING, Page 7 Squadron at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, formed a mobile training team to conduct the course on Ramstein.
Talk about it: resources and support for pregnancy and infant loss within KMC
Story and photos by
families have lost due to miscar-
Airman 1st Class Savannah L. Waters
riage, stillbirth, and infant loss. But,
86th Airlift Wing Public Aff airs
Chaplain Rendon is on a mission
to make pregnancy and infant loss
“Oftentimes, people don’t know awareness more than just an annu-
resources are out there,” said Maj. al event within the Kaiserslautern
Mark Rendon, U.S. Army Garrison Military Community.
Rheinland-Pfalz family and life Rendon, his wife Tania, and
chaplain. “Or, they’re unaware of son AJ, hosted a “Wave of Light
how to get these resources. And Celebration” at the Java Café
sometimes, it’s just not a subject on Rhine Ordnance Barracks in
that is easily talked about with oth- December 2017, to join parents and
ers, because the loss of a child is families within the KMC who’ve
very difficult.” experienced this particular kind of
Maj. Mark Rendon, U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz family and life chaplain, speaks at a “Wave of Light
October is Pregnancy and Infant loss.
Celebration” at the Java Café in December 2017 on Rhine Ordnance Barracks. October is Pregnancy and Infant
Loss Awareness Month, where “To be transparent and vulner-
Loss Awareness Month, where organizations and communities everywhere host events to commemorate the
organizations and communities able, my wife and I have expe-
lives parents and families have lost due to miscarriage, stillbirth, and infant loss. Rendon is on a mission to
everywhere host events to com-
make pregnancy and infant loss awareness more than just an annual event within the KMC. See TALK ABOUT IT, Page 2
memorate the lives parents and
Page 2 KaiserslauternAmerican February 9, 2018

TALK ABOUT IT, from Page 1
rienced three miscarriages:
Peanut, Button, and Jelly
Bean,” Rendon said. “It is
my honor, privilege, and
calling to serve such fami-
lies because my wife and
I have been there. In our
experience, there was little
to no support of any kind.”
According to the Share
Pregnancy and Infant Loss
Support website, www.
nationalshare.org, near-
ly one in four pregnancies
ends in loss.
“The goal of this event
was to recognize and appre-
ciate the sanctity of life for
each moment every baby
brought joy to every fam-
ily with every heartbeat,”
Rendon said.
“My hope is that fami-
lies can experience this time
together celebrating life
knowing they’re not alone,
and that there are others
who share similar experi-
ences.”
When the Rendons were
Kaiserslautern Military Community members gather at a “Wave of Light Celebration” at the Java Café in December 2017 on Rhine Ordnance Barracks.The event joined
anticipating their first child,
parents and families within the KMC who’ve experienced miscarriage, stillborn, and infant loss. Families experienced this time together celebrating life knowing
they didn’t know what to
they’re not alone, and that there are others who share similar experiences.
expect.
“I was really excited, I
had never been through this reaches out to families who family unit. Their services “How do I honor my That is how I’m going to
before,” Rendon said. “I was have suffered the loss of a include bedside compan- babies?” Rendon asked. honor my babies.”
looking at the screen, and baby, and hosts a variety of ions, phone support, face- “Th ey are a part of my life. The journey of grief
I was anticipating, and I support groups throughout to-face support group meet- It’s not like grieving the end within this experience is
was nervous…and the doc- the nation. ings, resource packets, pri- of an older relative’s life. often overlooked, under-
tor left the room.” The MEND website vate online communities, Th ey’d lived a fruitful, mean- mined, or unrecognized,
That was the first of maintains and regularly memorial events, training ingful, full life. How can a Rendon said.
three losses the Rendons updates a list of resources for caregivers, and more. baby? You never stop griev- “My wife and I would
experienced as parents. for those who’ve needed it Th e KMC is making steps ing, thinking about all that love the opportunity to
“In 2005, when we had the last 19 years, includ- toward becoming a com- they could’ve become.” serve our community in
our first loss, MEND, ing bi-monthly newsletters, munity that has a variety Th e Rendons didn’t really a unique and special way
Mommies Enduring music, books and publica- of choices and support for begin to heal until after their in the area of pregnancy
Neonatal Death, was the tions, and family memorials. those that have experienced third loss, Rendon said. and infant loss,” Rendon
only organization or com- Another resource, the the tragic loss of a baby. “Our story began to be a said. “I really appreciate the
munity I could find online Share Pregnancy and Infant Rendon hosts the Pregnancy teaching point for others,” support to all our families
at the time,” said Tania. Loss Support, is a com- and Infant Loss Support Rendon said. “It still hurt, throughout the KMC in so
Mommies Enduring munity that can provide Group every third Tuesday but I set forth on a path to many areas. It’s an honor
Neonatal Death is a non- support for grandparents, of the month at ROB, Bldg. which God was calling me, and privilege to serve along-
profit organization that siblings, and others in the 277, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. to help heal the wounded. side all of you.”
MASTHEAD
Th e Kaiserslautern American is pub- not constitute endorsement by the DOD, the geographically separated units. missions to: [email protected]. Kaiserslautern American Layout
lished by AdvantiPro GmbH, Kaiserslautern, Department of the Air Force or the AdvantiPro AdvantiPro staff reserves the right to edit all Alexander Pütz
Germany, a private fi rm in no way connected GmbH of the products or the services submitted material. To place classifi ed ads, visit
with the Department of the Air Force or the advertised. www.FindItGuide.com. Sales Team
Department of the Army, under exclusive con- Everything advertised in this publication DEADLINES: For display ads, email Armand Derderian, Karin Flick, Anita Köhler
tract with the 86th Airlift Wing. shall be made available for purchase, use or [email protected]
Th is commercial enterprise newspaper is patronage without regard to race, color, reli- • News, feature, school articles and photos – or call 0631-30 33 55 36. Ad Design & Layout
an authorized publication for members of the gion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, noon Th ursday for the following week’s edition Manuel Flaetgen, Alexander Pütz,
military services overseas. physical handicap, political affi liation or any • Sports articles and photos – noon Th ursday KA Team Marina Richter, Jaqueline Samad
Contents of the KA are not necessarily the other non merit factor of the purchaser, user for the following week’s edition
offi cial view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. govern- or patron. • Free (space available) classifi eds – noon General Manager Classifi ed Ads
ment, Department of Defense or Department Editorial content is based on news releases, Tuesday for that same week’s KA Bret Helenius Jaqueline Samad
of the Air Force. features, editorials and reports prepared by
Th e appearance of advertising in this pub- Department of Defense, Air Force and Army AdvantiPro staff encourages reader comments. Editor, Quality Control & Display ads Printer
lication, including insert or supplements, does agencies, KMC military units and Send questions, comments, article and photo sub- Jennifer Holdsworth Oggersheimer Druckzentrum
February 9, 2018 KaiserslauternAmerican Page 3

USAFE Band wins Air Force award
by Master Sgt. Michelle Harris
Americans. We pose for pic- priorities to help further senior is to leverage commonalities the USAFE Band “the core of
U.S. Air Forces in Europe Band
tures with audience members leader objectives. Highlights for between cultures and bring democracy” in response to the
after each performance in the band included troop morale people together. It’s a fantastic effects created by the perfor-
“The U.S. Armed Forces order to give personal con- missions in Niger, network opportunity to bring messages mances that brought Serbian
have a secret weapon,” report- tact. Band members also bring performances in Moldova, of peace and hope to so many and United States senior lead-
ed Monocle Magazine in a iconic American symbols such and performing alongside people in a non-threatening ers together.
June 2017 article entitled as signed baseballs and base- the Ukrainian military band way. From a planning perspec- What does 2018 hold for
‘Louder than Bombs.’ It’s “a ball cards to give away to kids during their internationally tive, it can be a real challenge. the USAFE Band? Schofield is
jazz band that knows how to as mementos.” broadcast Independence Day We may be in Botswana one excited about the possibilities.
take a nation by storm.” The Brig. Gen. Harry celebration. week performing in villages “2018 is the 100th anniver-
After 364 performanc- Dalton Award is presented to “Conducting the Ukrainian hours from a military base, sary for Baltic independence,”
es through 29 countries in the Public Affairs organization national anthem on live televi- and the next week perform- he said. “This is an excellent
2017, the U.S. Air Forces in that best advances Air Force sion during their celebration ing in Sweden alongside other opportunity to stand beside
Europe Band has won the priorities and achieves mission was one of the most cherished military organizations from our partners as they celebrate
Air Force’s most effective objectives through integrated memories that I have,” said different countries. Having independence, as well as get
public affairs communication research, planning, execution, Schofield. “Being on the loca- the correct country clearance out into their communities and
program award for provid- and evaluation of communi- tion in Kiev where the revo- documents, logistics, cultural help celebrate their freedom.
ing Departments of Defense cation capabilities during the lution started felt like sacred understanding, and even lan- 2018 is also the 70th anniver-
and State unique placement year. This is a milestone for ground. It was not lost on guage keeps us on our toes.” sary of the Berlin Airlift, and
in hard-to-access information Air Force Public Affairs, as me that the Ukrainian gov- USAFE Band performanc- the USAFE Band will travel
environments, such as Ukraine. the selection of the USAFE ernment asked an American es in Europe and Africa gen- throughout Germany help-
“Sharing a bond of trust Band represents the first time to lead their national anthem erate positive coverage about ing celebrate this milestone of
despite language and cultur- that an Air Force band has on Independence Day. It was American presence and part- human cooperation.
al barriers is a powerful dip- won the Dalton Award at the a graceful example of a dip- nership. Recent performances I am proud of this team and
lomatic tool that can last a Headquarters Air Force level. lomatic relationship between in seven Eastern Ukraine cit- their ability to help bring these
lifetime,” said Lt. Col. Don The USAFE Band’s live per- two countries built on com- ies generated 215 pro-United diverse missions together,” said
Schofield, USAFE Band com- formances and media broad- mitment and trust.” States stories in the Ukrainian Master Sgt. Rebecca Collins,
mander. “It is very reward- casts reached more than 1.12 The USAFE Band tailors and Russian press and pro- USAFE Band director of
ing to connect with people billion viewers internationally each performance to match vided a 17 percent boost in operations. “No matter where
from many countries and offer in 2017. The band integrated the local cultural, political, and pro U.S. social media in the we send our Airmen, we lever-
them a taste of American cul- with U.S. European Command, security climates,” said Capt. Ukrainian cities that the band age soft power to further the
ture. For many, the USAFE U.S. Africa Command, Justin Lewis, USAFE Band visited. The United States security objectives of USAFE
Band is their first contact with USAFE, and Air Forces Africa operations officer. “Its goal Ambassador to Serbia called and EUCOM.”
Lt. Col. Donald Schofield, USAFE Band commander, chats with a Ukrainian soldier
after a performance in Zaparozia, Ukraine, Oct. 28, 2017. The tour serves to fur-
ther increase cultural ties and enhance people-to-people relationship between
the U.S. and Ukraine. Photo by Capt. Elias Zani
Audience members dance during a USAFE Band performance in Kherson, Ukraine, Oct.
26, 2017. The visit underscores U.S. support to Ukrainian independence, democratic
development, prosperity and security. Photo by Capt. Elias Zani
Page 4 KaiserslauternAmerican February 9, 2018

KKMMCC BBLLOOTTTTEERR TAKE NOTE
COMPILED BY THE 569TH USFPS AND 86TH SFS
Photo by Schmidt_Alex / Shutterstock.com Photo by Respiro/ Shutterstock.com
JANUARY 29 Parking discs needed the munitions storage area will be closed to
In certain parking lots on Ramstein Air Base, all account custodians; only emergency issue
7:01 a.m.: Major traffi c collision with injuries in Ramstein-Miesenbach
display of parking disc is required. The maximum requests approved by the respective group com-
7:15 a.m.: Major traffi c collision with injuries in Bruchmuehlbach-Miesau
allowable time a car may remain in these lots is mander may be submitted.
12:10 p.m.: Larceny of private property from an unsecured location in Vogelweh Fitness Center posted; the driver must set the disc to the arrival
1:32 p.m.: Theft from an unsecured motor vehicle in Waldmohr time and make it visible. The following are some Professional of the year
parking lots where discs are required; MOMS, The 2017 Maintenance and Logistics
1:56 p.m.: Theft from an unsecured motor vehicle in Kaiserslautern
Ramstein Offi cers’ Club, commissary, library and Professional of the Year Banquet will be March 9
community center. Parking without displaying in the dual bay hangar, Bldg. 2018 on Ramstein
JANUARY 30 a disc or remaining past the allowed time could Air Base. Social will begin at at 6 p.m., dinner
result in a citation. is at 7. Cost is $5 for Airmen, $20 for NCOs and
2:58 p.m.: Communicating a threat on Ramstein Air Base
GCOs, and $15 for Senior NCOs and FGOs.
Main road closes
JANUARY 31 Constructions on the main road leading ROSC welcome coff ee
through Hirschhorn will continue Feb. 19. The The Ramstein Offi cers’ Spouses’ Club will
12:08 a.m.: Drunken operation of vehicle in Kaiserslautern
main road will be closed totally. Motorists must sponsor a welcome coff ee and conversation at
8:19 p.m.: Major traffi c collision with injuries in Huetschenhausen
follow the detour signs. 9 a.m. Thursday in the KMCC near Starbucks.
Guests are welcome to purchase a coff ee/tea or
FEBRUARY 1 Construction works feel free to bring a drink from home. Every guest
Repair works of the traffi c circle on the inter- is encouraged to bring a friend. Club members
5:53 p.m.: Major traffi c accident involving a pedestrian on Ramstein Air Base
section L356/Kindsbacher Strasse (access road love to share information about upcoming ROSC
7:24 p.m.: Major traffi c collision with injuries in Ramstein-Miesenbach to Ramstein West Gate) will begin Thursday. For socials and activities as well as fun travel tips.
three to four weeks motorists must follow the
detour signs. Landstuhl off ers guided tours
FEBRUARY 2
The tourist information offi ce in Landstuhl
7:55 a.m.: Theft from an unsecured motor vehicle in Mackenbach New traffi c circle is off ering guided tours in English. Tour guides
5:37 p.m.: Larceny of private property from an unsecured location in Schrollbach Motorists must start driving through the new will be available to off er tours of the castle, the
traffi c circle in front of Ramstein East Gate starting city and the Sickingen Museum. Flyers of guided
Feb. 17. If weather permits, a new construction tours are available at the tourist information
FEBRUARY 3
phase will start around the traffi c circle. offi ce, Haupstrasse 3a. For more information,
12:26 a.m.: Driving under the infl uence of a controlled substance in Ramstein-Miesenbach call the tourist offi ce at 06371-1300012 or email
New process, new hours [email protected].
The Ramstein Visitor Control Center recently
FEBRUARY 4
changed processes on issuing passes. The VCC Donations needed
1:36 a.m.: Fleeing the scene of a minor traffi c collision and drunken operation of vehicle at now issues passes with a scannable barcode. The German-American and International
These passes are valid for one to three days and Women’s Club Kaiserslautern is asking for dona-
Ramstein East Gate
may be used at any KMC Air Force or KMC Army tions for its annual Pfennig Bazaar March 2
4:31 a.m.: Assault in Kaiserslautern
installation. Any request longer than three days to 4 in the event hall of the Kaiserslautern
5 a.m.: Failure to pay debt in Ramstein-Miesenbach will require customers to receive a long-term Gartenschau. The club will accept donations
pass. Customers should understand with the new such as clean clothes for men, women and
7:35 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in Kaiserslautern
process, waiting times may be longer than usual. children, household goods, books, toys, small
5:55 p.m.: Failure to obey order or regulation on Ramstein Air Base
The VCC changed its operating hours. It opens at electrical appliances, collectibles, bed linens
6:24 p.m.: Fleeing the scene of a minor traffi c collision in Landstuhl 6 a.m. and closes at 10 p.m., seven days a week. and music media. Bulky items such as furni-
After hours, customers may still sign in guests at ture, mattresses, skis and suitcases will not
the west gate. The sponsor must be registered in get accepted. Donations can be dropped off 9
Editor’s note: Th e purpose of the weekly blotter is to deliver a chronological listing of criminal activ-
IACS to sign in visitors. Furthermore, ID card hold- a.m. to noon Saturday, Jan. 20 and Feb. 3 in
ity in the KMC. Th e information contained in the blotter is not indicative of crime trends or the
ers who forget their ID may also be searched in Hackstrasse 4 in Kaiserslautern. Collecting of
targeting of service members or their dependents. Th e location and nature of the entries is dependent
IACS and be granted base access. For more infor- goods in the Gartenschau event hall will begin
upon where the crime was reported and not necessarily where the crime took place.
mation, visit ramsteinvisitorcenter.com Feb. 24. For more information, call Gisela Kau at
0171-9386666.
Offi ce closures
TTHHEE HHOOUUSSIINNGG HYPE
The Kaiserslautern City Hall will close at Fasching parade
noon Tuesday due to Shrove Tuesday. KMC The Ramstein-Miesenbach Carnival
Housing Offi ce and Furnishings Management Association Bruchkatze is looking for American
As a friendly reminder, all bulk trash
Section will be closed Feb. 19 in observation of bands, dancers, cheerleaders, school classes,
must be taken to the recycle centers. For the holiday. Customer service hours will resume scouts and individuals in unique costumes who
Feb. 20. would like to participate in the Fasching parade
any housing maintenance requests, call
Tuesday. The parade will begin at 2 p.m. and last
the 24-hour line at 06371-463-9510
Annual inventory for about 1.5 hours. For more information and
The 86th Munitions Squadron will conduct to register, call the 86th Airlift Wing Host Nation
an annual 100 percent munitions stockpile Offi ce at 480-2094 or 06371-47-2094, or email
inventory March 26 to 30. During this time, at [email protected].
Photo by Oranzy Photography / Shutterstock.com
February 9, 2018 KaiserslauternAmerican Page 5

A more personal approach with the Commander Advanced Notification process
by 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
this new process include verifying
if any assignment ineligibility fac-
All commanders and senior rat- tors exist after receiving assignment
ers are now receiving seven-day notification and ensuring Airmen log
advanced notifications of assign- into virtual MPF for their official
ments for their Airmen as part of assignment notification no later than
an initiative which began Jan. 18 on seven calendar days after receipt of
Ramstein Air Base. the notification email.
For pay grades of E-8 and below Airmen responsibilities include
and O-5 and below, assignments online acknowledgment of the offi-
will now go in advance to Military cial notification and verification of
Personnel Flight who disseminate their military and personal email
Sergeants of the 786th Force Support Squadron Base Relocations Office pose for a photo Jan. 31 on Ramstein
the information to unit commanders addresses on virtual MPF. Airmen
Air Base. According to Tech. Sgt. Tiffany Hilt, the new Commander Advanced Notification Process will estab-
and senior raters seven days before may also request a projected depar-
lish a greater connection with a commander and their Airmen. Photo by Airman 1st Class Kristof J. Rixmann
the official notification to Airmen. ture date change through their
According to an Air Force Personnel supervisor and commander.
Center Strategic Command message, The seven-day period for com-
the idea was identified after com- manders to meet with their Airmen
manders discussed being unaware of about upcoming assignments is not
the assignments being given to their intended to be a negotiation above
Airmen. already existing assignment rule sets.
“The process is bringing back the The Air Force Personnel Center
value of allowing the commanders is ready for any unanticipated situa-
to be more personable with their tions users may be experiencing and
Airmen,” said Tech. Sgt. Tiffany they encourage feedback throughout
Hilt, 786th Force Support Squadron the introduction of this new process.
NCOIC of base relocations.
“With the Commander Advanced For questions and inquiries on
Tech. Sgt. Tiffany Hilt, 786th Force Support Squadron NCOIC of base relocations, reviews records of Airmen
Notification process, it really lets the this new initiative please contact
in the Base Relocations Office Jan. 31 on Ramstein Air Base. The Air Force Personnel Center is ready for
commanders be more hands on and the AFPC Military Assignments
any unanticipated situations users may be experiencing and they encourage feedback throughout the
involved.” Programs Branch at afpc.dp3am.
introduction of this new process. Photo by Airman 1st Class Kristof J. Rixmann
Commander’s responsibilities with [email protected].
Refuting four ‘Tooth’ Fairy tales
by Capt. Samuel Fowler
In fact, brushing too hard can actually ing once daily, you will notice that your Pro-activity is the key to prevention.
86th Dental Squadron
be damaging to both teeth and gums. child’s gum tissue will return to a state
Myth #4: Any problems with my child’s baby
When it comes to good oral hygiene, it of health with a pink coloration and no
teeth are not a big deal because they will just
As parents, we are completely invest- is all about proper technique. The plaque signs of bleeding.
fall out anyway.
ed in ensuring our child’s health and on our teeth actually comes off very eas-
Myth #3: My child’s toothache will eventually
well-being. However, many of us may ily with a light oscillating stroke at a This is perhaps one of the most com-
heal itself and go away over time.
find it can be very difficult to decipher 45-degree angle to the gumline, where mon and damaging myths about chil-
fact from myth when it comes to oral teeth and gums meet. When it comes If your child falls and scrapes their dren’s dental health. While it is true that
health. Below you will find a few of the to brushing your teeth, brush smarter, knee, it will generally hurt for a few all baby teeth will be replaced with per-
most common misleading myths about not harder. days, but over time the body will heal manent teeth, it should be emphasized
children’s dental health that have the itself without any medical interven- that baby teeth perform an invaluable
Myth #2: My child should not brush or floss as
potential to misguide you from doing tion. Therefore, why wouldn’t a tooth- role in your child’s growth and develop-
often if it causes their gums to bleed.
what is best for your child. ache do the same thing? Unfortunately, ment. Teeth are important not only for
Have you ever noticed after your once bacteria has penetrated through eating, but also for speaking and smiling
Myth #1: If my child has a cavity, it means they
child obtains a small cut or scratch that the enamel, the outermost layer of the as well. Premature loss of baby teeth can
need to brush harder.
the surrounding tissue becomes red, tooth, there is no way for the tooth to be tied to malnutrition, speech impedi-
If your child is brushing twice daily swollen, and possibly painful? Those are repair itself. Bacteria forms an offensive ments, and social issues. Furthermore,
and flossing once daily, yet they are signs that their immune system is fight- front that expands toward the center of baby teeth function to maintain space
still developing cavities, then brushing ing off germs that should not be there the tooth where the blood and nerve in your child’s mouth for permanent
harder is not the solution. Not only in order to prevent infection. The same supply is housed. Possible consequences teeth. Premature loss of baby teeth can
should we evaluate oral hygiene, but process happens with our gums if we include pain and development of an increase the likelihood of tooth crowd-
we should also consider their nutrition. do not brush and floss regularly. When infection that may negatively affect the ing and the need for dental interven-
Frequent snacking on sugary foods or bacteria build up beneath our gums, it development of the permanent teeth. tion (such as braces) in the future. In
carrying around a cup of apple juice can result in red and swollen gum tissue This destructive process can be halt- short, every tooth matters. Be sure to
with frequent sips spread out over the that tends to bleed easily upon contact. ed through the use of Silver Diamine take the time to teach your kids about
entire day are two of the most com- This inflammation of the gum tissue Fluoride and, or, the physical removal of the importance of brushing and floss-
mon causes of cavities in our little ones. is called gingivitis, and it can only be the bacteria and placement of a filling or ing their baby teeth so that when their
Brushing harder is a common miscon- eliminated and prevented with consis- crown. Taking your child to see the den- permanent teeth come in they will have
ception and, unfortunately, doing so can tent and proper oral hygiene. After one tist on a regular basis can actually save the skills they need to keep them clean
actually cause more harm than good. week of brushing twice daily and floss- you a lot of time, money, and heartache. and healthy.
Page 6 KaiserslauternAmerican February 9, 2018

Supporting teens through the dating years
by Family Advocacy 1. Decide your families’ values before you 4. Talk about their friends.
movie to see. Th e closer your teen
talk to your teen.
feels to you, the more likely they are Ask who they hang out with.
Adolescence is a diffi cult time not Decide what you as a parent/s are to open up to you. Inquire (in a non-detective man-
only for teens, but also for parents. ok with in regards to dating. Having a ner) their friends’ ages, interests, and
33.. UUssee eevveerryyddaayy lliiffee,, aass aann ooppppoorr--
Many changes take place physically cclleeaarr ppllaann aahheeaadd ooff ttiimmee,, mmaayy affi liations. Th is is a great opportu-
ttuunniittyy ttoo ssttaarrtt ccoonnvveerrssaa--
and emotionally. Th e need for inde- hheellpp ttoo kkeeeepp yyoouu ffrroomm nity to ask if their friends are dating.
ttiioonnss..
pendence and support take a confl ict- bbeeiinngg ttaakkeenn ooffff Get feedback from them about their
ing seat. It may seem like teens do gguuaarrdd iiff ssoommee-- When you friend’s relationships.
not want or need their parents sup- tthhiinngg ccoommeess sseeee aa sscceennaarriioo
5. Provide support.
port, but guidance and consistency up in conver- played out
provide comfort during a confusing sation. If a on TV, or Let your teen know they can come
period. topic comes in public, to you with their problems. Be open,
As a parent, talking to your chil- up that you talk about supportive, and attentive if they want
dren about the birds and bees may be do not have it. Ask your to talk to you. Just as you are nervous
uncomfortable; and the thought of an answer teen, “how talking to them, they are also nervous
talking to them about dating may just for, it’s ok they would about talking to you.
push you over the edge. It is important to get back to feel,” or
to put your fears aside and provide them. ““wwhhaatt wwoouulldd As parents, it’s important for you
them valid information based on your tthheeyy ddoo iiff tthheeyy to be a positive role model. Your teens
22.. DDeevveelloopp aa bboonndd
families’ morals and values. Would wweerree iinn tthhaatt ssiittuu-- are looking to you for guidance on
with your teen.
you rather your teen hear about dating aattiioonn??”” HHaavvee tthheemm how the world works even when it
and relationships from you or receive Participate in and share explain “pop culture” to you seems like they have it all fi gured out.
skewed information from the media experiences with your teen that are from their point of view. Be open and For more information on teen dating
and/or their peers? of interest to them (even if it is not non-critical to their explanation. Th is go to www.loveisrespect.org/ or www.
You may be wondering how to important to you). Have your teen is an opportunity for you to under- futureswithoutviolence.org/. Th ere are
begin talking to your teen about dat- plan a point of interest on your next stand their world and where they are many websites and books available
ing. Th e following tips may help. vacation, choose a place to eat or coming from. with information for parents.
Airmen read to Kaiserslautern youth
Airman 1st Class Milton Hamilton, 86th Airlift Wing Public Aff airs photojournalist, smiles as he reads a children's book to a class of German kindergarteners Jan. 30 at Villa Winzig in Kaiserslautern-Dansenberg.
This was part of an initiative to further support Ramstein Air Base relations with the Kaiserslautern community. Photo by Airman 1st Class Kristof Rixman
February 9, 2018 KaiserslauternAmerican Page 7

RAVEN TRAINING, from Page 1
came from three squadrons in the
Kaiserslautern Military Community:
Qualification Course, which is Th e 86th and 435th Security Forces
believed by some to be the most rig- Squadrons, and the 569th United
orous training program in the Air States Forces Police Squadron.
Force security forces world. Th e Air Th e course involves vigorous phys-
Mobility Command’s Phoenix Raven ical training sessions, Armament
program centers upon the concept Systems and Procedures Baton train-
of specially-trained security forces ing, use-of-force scenarios, combat-
Airmen fl ying with and protecting ives classes, and live-fi re training, as
AMC aircraft around the world. well as 15 academic classes.
“Th e (purpose of the Ravens) is to McGuire added that it is not
Staff Sgt. Joseph Mcguire, 421st Combat Training Squadron, Phoenix Raven Qualifi cation Course instructor, conducts
provide close-in security for aircraft uncommon for some students to fail
a mobile training course Jan. 30 on Ramstein Air Base. A mobile training team arrived at Ramstein from Joint Base
and airfi elds that AMC has deemed the course and get sent home. A few
McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, to conduct Raven training for three security forces squadrons in the KMC.
as having inadequate security,” said have already washed out since they
Staff Sgt. Joseph McGuire, 421st started on Jan. 22.
Combat Training Squadron Phoenix “It is extremely hard,” he said.
Raven Qualifi cation Course instruc- “You have to be mentally and physi-
tor. “We guard the aircraft, protect cally tough. You have to have heart.
the personnel, and whatever else is You have to have dedication and
on board.” mental tenacity. And you have to be
Th is particular class, however, is able to make proper decisions while
diff erent: instead of taking place at being in a stressful environment.”
the Raven program’s training hub at Th ose that do make it through the
Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst course are rewarded with an illus-
in New Jersey, it was conducted by a trious career and a place among an
mobile training team sent to U.S. Air elite group of security forces Airmen,
Forces in Europe-Air Forces Africa. McGuire added.
Th e Raven team came to Ramstein “For me personally it’s the most
Air Base upon the request of the rewarding thing as a security forces
Security forces Airmen participate in a combatives class during a mobile Phoenix Raven Qualifi cation Course Jan. 30
86th Airlift Wing and USAFE- member,” McGuire said. “Th ey get
on Ramstein Air Base. Raven instructors assigned to the 421st Combat Training Squadron on Joint Base McGuire-
AFAFRICA leadership, said Master to fl y with senior government offi -
Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, formed a mobile training team to conduct the course on Ramstein.
Sgt. Sean Cunningham, 421st CTS cials, they get to see the world, and
Phoenix Raven Qualifi cation Course be a part of something bigger than
director. themselves.”
While the pressure and stress the Students who graduate from the
instructors push onto the students program receive the Raven tab which
may seem harsh to some people, it they may wear on their uniform, and
all serves as preparation for the reali- also a coin with their Raven number
ties they will face during real-world — a number which stays with them
operations, said Cunningham, who for the rest of their career.
served as the team lead for the MTT As for the students currently tak-
which went to Ramstein. ing part in the Raven Qualifi cation
“If they are unable to complete the Course at Ramstein, they have more
tasks to pass here in training, it casts obstacles to overcome before they
doubt on their ability to accomplish can even see that number. Th ey still
their duties when they’re downrange, have about two more weeks of train-
possibly tired and stressed with abso- ing before they can call themselves
Security Forces Airmen practice combatives during a mobile Phoenix Raven Qualifi cation Course Jan. 29 on Ramstein
lutely no one to help them out but Ravens.
Air Base. Airmen assigned to the 86th and 435th Security Forces Squadrons and the 569th U.S. Forces Police Squadron
themselves,” he said. Until then, the instructors will
took part in a course conducted by a mobile training team from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey.
The students in the course continue to apply pressure.
Page 8 KaiserslauternAmerican February 9, 2018

Leaders unite for Knights Week
by Sgt. DJ Borden
basis in their battalions or companies,”
16th Sustainment Brigade Public Affairs
said Col. Michelle Donahue, com-
mander of the Knights Brigade.
Senior leaders of the 16th Donahue believes events like
Sustainment Brigade came together Knights Week ensure a ready sus-
for Knights Week Jan. 22 to 25 in tainment brigade. Each company and
Baumholder. battalion plays a role in supporting
Company, battalion, and brigade the freedom of maneuver and extend-
leadership gathered for team-building ing the operational reach for a strong
social activities and command briefs to Europe.
ensure leaders share an understanding First sergeants, sergeants major, and
of brigade operations. commanders participated in refresh-
“The purpose of Knights Week is ment trainings on subjects like legal,
to improve unit cohesion throughout Army schools, threat analysis, and the
the brigade,” said Command Sgt. Maj. Digital Training Management System.
Frank Graham, senior enlisted advisor Future leaders were also able to get
of the Knights Brigade. “With stron- something out of the event.
ger command teams we can continue Sgt. 1st Class Darnell Scott, HHC,
Maj. Gen. Steven Shapiro (left), 21st Theater Sustainment Command commanding general, attends a 16th Sustainment
doing our part in ensuring a strong 16th Special Troops Battalion platoon
Brigade Quarterly Training Brief with Col. Michelle Donahue (center), 16 SB commander, and U.S. Army Command Sgt.
Europe.” sergeant, held the role of acting first
Maj. Frank Graham (right), 16th SB senior enlisted advisor, in the brigade conference room, Baumholder, Jan. 25.
The week started with a high-inten- sergeant while the company’s com-
Shapiro discussed upcoming operations in the 16 SB with the senior leaders of the brigade and gave the leaders insight
sity interval training session at the Hall mand team was away for a mission.
on how to prepare and improve their units through the new year. Photo by Sgt. DJ Borden
of Champions Gym, which changed Scott had an advantage to see what
the pace of normal physical readiness his career will look like in the future
training. by participating in Knights Week. He electronic warfare, and threat analysis. the leaders’ trainings with them was a
“Having our leaders come together and other leaders who participated had “This week I saw what I have to look good learning experience.”
in both social and duty-related settings a better understanding of how to pre- forward to when I earn the rank of first Chief Warrant Officer 2 Mohamed
is an excellent way to strengthen the pare and train their Soldiers with more sergeant,” Scott said. “Becoming more Kherbouche, electronic warfare tech-
camaraderie and refresh them on top- in-depth looks at topics like chemical, acquainted with other company first nician and brigade operations officer,
ics they may not come across on a daily biological, radiological, nuclear defense, sergeants of the brigade and attending organized Knights Week and men-
tioned that due to the government shut-
down, members of the 18th Combat
Sustainment Support Battalion were
unable to attend the event physically,
but sat in on the briefs through video
teleconference.
“Despite the obstacles the shut-
down caused, the week went well with
great training support activity, electron-
ic warfare, and cyber electromagnetic
activity briefs,” said Kherbouche. “The
command teams broke away from their
everyday duties, while refreshing on a
few duty-related topics and had a good
Senior leaders assigned to the 16th Sustainment Brigade conduct a Battle Update Brief in the brigade Col. Michelle Donahue (right), commander of the 16th
time together.”
conference room, Baumholder, Jan. 24. The BUB took place during Knights Week, a weeklong event Sustainment Brigade, leaps over a wrestling mat during
The Knights Brigade leaders went
bringing company, battalion, and brigade leaders of Knights Brigade together for command briefs and a high intensity interval training session at the Hall of
bowling at the Strikers Bowling
team building activities. Photo by Sgt. 1st Class Michael O’Brien Champions, Baumholder, Jan. 23. Photo by Sgt. DJ Borden
Center and had a company command
teams’ dinner at the Hard Rock Diner.
Command teams became more famil-
iar with fellow unit leaders and their
role in the brigade.
“It is important that every level of
leadership, from company to brigade,
understand their roles and the roles and
responsibilities of their counterparts to
work better together,” Graham said.
After a week of briefs and develop-
ment trainings, the leadership built
more cohesion, which was Donahue’s
ultimate goal.
“With stronger leaders we will have
even stronger Soldiers and continue
to improve in our mission to create a
Phil Merchant (left), 16th Sustainment Brigade safety advisor, briefs Col. Michelle Donahue (middle), 16 SB commander, and Command Sgt. Maj. Frank Graham (right),
Strong Europe as a result,” Donahue
16 SB command sergeant major, on health and safety promotion at the brigade conference room, Baumholder, Jan. 24. Photo by Sgt. DJ Borden
said.
February 9, 2018 KaiserslauternAmerican Page 9
Page 10 KaiserslauternAmerican February 9, 2018

The King
of NASCAR
visits Ramstein
Richard Petty, NASCAR legend, speaks to members of Team Ramstein at the Kaiserslautern Military
Community Center Jan. 27 on Ramstein Air Base. Petty spoke about his career with young men
and women in the process of joining the military, met Team Ramstein leadership, and answered
questions at an open event for KMC members. Photo by Senior Airman Elizabeth Baker
A child receives a toy car which Richard Petty, NASCAR legend, signed Jan. 27 on Ramstein Air
Base. Petty signed memorabilia, took pictures with new Air Force recruits and their families, and
participated in a question and answer session in part because the Air Force Recruiting Service
sponsors Petty and Richard Petty Motor Sports, which displays the Air Force symbol on car NASCAR
racecar number 43. Photo by Senior Airman Elizabeth Baker
Richard Petty signs his autograph for a member of team Ramstein Jan. 27. United States Air
Richard Petty, left, and his grandson, Thad Moffitt, both NASCAR drivers, answer questions for Force Recruiting Europe invited Petty to answer questions about his career for young men
Team Ramstein at the KMCC Jan. 27 on Ramstein Air Base. Petty and Moffitt signed memorabilia, and women in the process of joining the Air Force. The Air Force Recruiting Service sponsors
posed for pictures with service members and their families, and participated in a question and Petty and Richard Petty Motor Sports, which displays the Air Force symbol on NASCAR racecar
answer session. Photo by Senior Airman Elizabeth Baker number 43. Photo by Senior Airman Elizabeth Baker