Table Of ContentVol. 40, No. 19 Friday, May 13, 2011
927th Air Refueling Wing in the fight
- pages 3, 4, 13, 16, 17
Photo by Staff Sgt. Shawn Rhodes
Senior Airman Robert Dougherty, a reservist with the 927th Air Refueling Wing, sits with his wife Jessie and two boys, Logan, 4, and Zack, 3, be-
fore deploying to the East Asia Theater of Operations recently. Airman Dougherty and other reservists tasked with the deployment left their fami-
lies and jobs in the Tampa community to serve their country overseas.
COMMANDER’s CORNER
Condolence and thanks; Team MacDill standouts for the week
by Col. Lenny Richoux spouses, anytime you reflect on the support
6th Air Mobility Wing commander you’ve received is a good time to say, “Thank
you.” We should be in the habit of appreciating
I want to extend sincere condolence to the those around us we consider family.
families and friends of the two fallen heroes For this week’s “shout outs” I want to thank
we honored last week, Marine Corps Lance the members of the 6th Security Forces
Cpl. Ronald Freeman and Air Force Maj. Squadron for organizing base participation
Raymond Estelle II. in last week’s 2011 National Police Week Fall-
Thanks to all of the servicemembers who en Police Officer Memorial 5K Run in honor of
rendered honor to them and to the personnel all fallen military and civilian officers.
who did the footwork to support the dignified The 91st Air Refueling Squadron pilots and
transfers. the boom operator who assisted by supporting
This month we will hold a commemorative the “Leadership Hillsborough” tour deserve
ceremony for Memorial Day. As we prepare for recognition for their effort in sustaining Mac- Photo by Staff Sgt. Angela Ruiz
this time of reflection, we collectively honor Dill AFB community relations ties. Recently Col. Lenny Richoux, 6th Air Mobility Wing com-
the military members who made the ultimate Capt. Justin Capper, Capt. Michael Ava- mander, presents Ms. Herta Pila with a plaque
sacrifice. We will remember these two service los and Airman 1st Class Shaun Conners honoring her as the guest speaker for the Ho-
members and so many others who’ve paid that showcased the KC-135 Stratotanker by ex- locaust days of remembrance at MacDill Air
price. plaining the flying mission. The Airmen and Force Base chapel. Ms. Herta Pila is a Holo-
May is also Military Spouse Appreciation civic leaders enjoyed the day and enhanced caust survivor who now lives with her family
Month—thank you all who were involved close bonds between MacDill AFB and the in Florida.
in making last Friday’s Airmen and Family Hillsborough community. sional Development Conference in Tampa this
Readiness Center’s Open House a success. I also want to thank, 2nd Lt. Alessandra month.
Last Sunday, I hope you had a chance to Horban, 2nd Lt. Jamie Brunette, 2nd Lt. 6th Medical Group’s Senior Airman Taw-
recognize or were fittingly recognized for the Megan Meenan, 2nd Lt. Scott Heinlein, ny Uemura-Oquendo public health member
importance mothers all over have in family 1st Lt. Jessica Wruck, 1st Lt. James Scott, and PIMR administrator created a security
life and as pillars of stability. I did, and I con- 1st Lt. Rachael Mooney, Chaplain (Capt.) clearance tracking system and database up-
tinue to show gratitude for my mother and to Meoshia Sanders, Capt. Troy Novak, and date scheme that increased IMR rate for the
the mother of my children, my wife, Michele. Capt. Paula Clark, members of the base’s base substantially.
Although the month of May was proclaimed Company Grade Officers Council who did I am proud to serve with you in the finest
the month we show appreciation for military a phenomenal job hosting the CGO Profes- Air Mobility Wing on the face of the planet!
COMMANDER’S ACTION LINE
The Action Line provides a two-way communication between the 6th Air
Mobility Wing commander and the MacDill community. A 24-hour recording
service is provided so personnel may submit questions, concerns or com-
ments. Call the Action Line at 828-INFO (4636) or e-mail macdillwingcom-
[email protected]
MacDill Thunderbolt fense, the Department of the Air Force or the 6th Air Mobil- may be obtained by calling 259-7455.
ity Wing. News items for the MacDill Thunderbolt can be submit-
Publisher: Denise Palmer The appearance of advertising in this publication, in- ted to the 6th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs office, Bldg.
Editor: Nick Stubbs cluding inserts or supplements, does not constitute en- 25, MacDill AFB, FL 33621, or call the MacDill Thunderbolt
dorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department staff at 828-4586. Email: [email protected].
of the Air Force, 6th Air Mobility Wing or Sunbelt Newspa- Deadline for article submissions is noon, Thursdays to
The MacDill Thunderbolt is published by Sunbelt News- pers, Inc., of the products or service advertised. appear in the next week’s publication. Articles received af-
papers, Inc., a private firm in no way connected with the Everything advertised in this publication shall be made ter deadline may be considered for future use. All submis-
U.S. Air Force. This commercial enterprise newspaper is an available for purchase, use, or patronage without regard to sions are considered for publication based on news value
authorized publication for distribution to members of the race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, and timeliness.
U.S. military services on MacDill. Contents of the MacDill physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-mer- Every article and photograph is edited for accuracy, clar-
Thunderbolt are not necessarily the official views of, or it factor of the purchaser, user, or patron. ity, brevity, conformance with the “Associated Press Style-
endorsed by the U.S. government, the Department of De- Display advertising or classified advertising information book and Libel Manual” and Air Force Instruction 35-101.
NEWS/FEATURES
Commentary
Your T-bolt Today
There’s a lot going on in the world, isn’t there?
News/Features: page 4 by Col. David Pavey Regardless of what exactly triggered your
927th Air Refueling Wing commander decision to serve this nation, I can’t help but
Fallen hero comes home believe that fundamentally you wished to
As we roll through another spectacular make your nation better; stronger. What we
News/Features: page 10 DALE MABRY GAT5E131086 YWH YRBAM ELAD1099 TRAFNFOICR TDHEBTOOTaUUNR DPLAcNakmnpoaw Bleadyg ea rtehae spparsisnign,g t hseeareso’sn b. aItr ewlyo utilmd eb et o caanldl ‘iomurm neadtiiaotne’ fiasm uilltiiems,a ftaemlyi loiuesr wexittehnind efda mi-
GArreaab -oitf DWeovricke.
coy to say there were some “unsettling things” lies. We strive for them; ensuring our nation
Road construction details GATE DETOUR Road Closed.
going on in the world. Anyone who pays any does not “perish from this earth,” as Abraham
COopnpeoss iBnge tTwreaeffnic INTERSECTION DETOUR
attention to recent world events should note Lincoln stated nearly 150 years ago.
NORTH BOUNDARY BLVD
News/Features: page 16 Rev. Date: 2 Mar 2011 current events are replete with example of You are members of that extended family,
wars, natural disasters, and governments making up the best Air Force on the earth.
British cadets drop in on 927th toppling. Change seems constant, and much You have faced many challenges recently,
of it’s not good. Still, regardless of all this, and it doesn’t look as if they are going to stop
the things that make our lives relevant don’t
MacDill Community: page 28 See COMMENTARY, Page 12
change.
National Terrorism Advisory Stystem up and running
Events, movies, more...
Special to the Thunderbolt
Job Opening at DCC
On April 20, Secretary Janet Napolitano vis-
The Davis Conference Center has two open-
ited New York City to announce the implemen-
ings for a staff sergeant – technical sergeant.
tation of the Department of Homeland Securi-
Any AFSC (5- or 7-skill level) may apply for the
ty’s new National Terrorism Advisory System
positions with a report date of June 1. Duties
(NTAS) to replace the color-coded threat ad-
include tasks required for the daily operations
visory system and underscore the critical role
of the DCC:
of all Americans in keeping our country safe.
• Support to event planning activities, in-
The Secretary announced the NTAS on Jan.
cluding meeting set up, rearranging conference
27, during her “State of America’s Homeland
rooms, and posting informational signs
• Responsible for identifying and reporting Security” address beginning the 90-day transi-
maintenance issues tion period with state and local governments,
• Responsible for working with Conference law enforcement, private and non-profit sector
Coordinator to execute daily schedule partners, airports, and other transportation
• Communicate directly with management hubs.
staff on conference center projects The following NTAS web pages, http://www.
Because of its technical nature and the in- dhs.gov/files/programs/ntas.shtm, http://www.
vestment in training required, applicants are dhs.gov/alerts, and http://www.dhs.gov/alerts
expected to remain in this position for one year.
provide information about the new system, in-
Qualifications: NTAS
cluding:
• Possess excellent customer service skills
Nationawl Twewrr.oDrHisSm.g oAvd/vailseorrtsy System
• Able to communicate with staff and guests
u A Public Guide for Citizens
in a professional manner u A template for NTAS alert One of several new airport poster designs used
• Ability to make sound decisions and multi-
u A link to the press release announcing in conjunction with the NTAS.
task
the launch of NTAS
• Detail oriented
u A link to a blog posting on NTAS to play in our shared security, and the new
• Professional demeanor and appearance
u Examples of the new NTAS posters that NTAS system will provide Americans with the
How to apply:
Contact Mr. Kevin Thompson, DCC Direc- will appear in airports and other public information they need to play their role. At
tor, at 828-6601 or e-mail: Kevin.thompson-02@ venues to replace the color-coded images DHS, we are proud of the work we do to secure
macdill.af.mil. Individuals must obtain their As Secretary Napolitano says in her video America, and we are proud to work with the
organizational commander’s approved release. message to all employees, “Everyone has a role American people to secure our communities.”
NEWS/FEATURES
Solemn return
Airman and family members pay
proper respects to U.S. Air Force
Major Raymond G. Estelle II as his
remains arrive on the flightline
at MacDill Air Force Base May 6.
Major Estelle, 40, died April 27, at
the Kabul International Airport,
Afghanistan, of wounds suffered
from gunfire. He was assigned to
Langley Air Force Base, Va.
Photo by Airman Basic David Tracy
The roots go deep: An interview with one of the 63rd Air Refueling Squadron’s first commanders
by Staff Sgt. Shawn Rhodes airfield at Fort Knox, he was met by his com- in the 1940s than there are today, they were
927th Air Refueling Wing mander. not unheard of. When some friends of the Kin-
“He was none too pleased with me,” Colonel nairds’ were going through a divorce, the young
This is the second of a three-part series on Kinnaird said. couple made a pact with each other:
Louisville, Ky. native Col. Eugene Kinnaird, Colonel Kinnaird asked how the commander “Dad importuned Mom that they agree to
former commander of the 63rd Troop Carrier knew it was him and not one of the other pilots never let anything come between them that
Squadron. Today the unit is the 63rd Air Refu- flying that day. The commander said that the would threaten their union. They will celebrate
eling Squadron, stationed at MacDill Air Force plane’s number, written on the wing, was re- 71 years this August!” said Thomas Kinnaird,
Base, Fla. ported. one of Kinnaird’s sons.
For Colonel Kinnaird, flying didn’t just pro- “I asked if they got it from the bottom of my According to another of Colonel Kinnaird’s
vide him with a livelihood; it also linked him to wing,” Colonel Kinnaird said. He chuckled as sons, the young pilot made her his first priority
love. Were it not for his enjoyment of acrobatic he answered himself. then and every year throughout their marriage
flying, he may never have caught the attention “They said no, they got the number from the - his faithfulness to her stands as a testament
of a young university student. More than 70 top of my wing!” to their union’s success today.
years later, she sits by his side on the couch in While’ barnstorming’ was more common in With no immediate use for military pilots
their home and tells her part of the story. that era, the military did not turn a blind eye. like Colonel Kinnaird prior to World War II, he
“I was in a Spanish class at the University For his aerial acrobatics, he was ordered to live exited the military and worked as an airline
of Kentucky when a plane came flying in be- in a pup tent on the runway beside his airplane pilot for American Airlines, flying DC-2s. The
tween the buildings,” Jean Kinnaird said. The for a week. Fortunately, Colonel Kinnaird’s job was going well, and he had high seniority in
professor, Dr. Hernandez, shouted ‘There’s my mission at the University of Kentucky was a the new company. One day, he received a tele-
friend Kinnaird!’” success - he and Jean have been married for gram from the president.
When Colonel Kinnaird returned to the 70 years. Although there were fewer divorces See ROOTS, Page 16
HEALTH
New TRICARE program covers
young adults under 26
FALLS CHURCH, Va. – TRICARE Young Adult (TYA) is now open for
enrollment with coverage beginning May 1, 2011.
Uniformed services dependents under 26, unmarried, and not eligible
for their own employer-sponsored health care coverage may be qualified
to purchase TYA, which offers TRICARE Standard coverage for monthly
premiums of $186.
A premium-based TRICARE Prime benefit will be available later this
year.
Dependent eligibility for TRICARE previously ended at age 21, or age
23 for full-time college students. Similar to provisions in the 2010 Patient
Protection and Affordable Care Act, TYA extends the opportunity for young
adults to continue TRICARE health care coverage, as long as their sponsor
is still eligible for TRICARE.
Complete information and application forms are available at www.tri-
care.mil/tya. TRICARE officials encourage beneficiaries to explore all pos-
sible health care plan options and costs when choosing a plan that best
meets their needs.
Those considering TYA should determine if they are eligible before com-
pleting and sending in an application. The application and payment of
three months of premiums can be dropped off at a TRICARE Service Cen-
ter or sent by mail or faxed directly to the appropriate regional health care
contractor.
Beneficiaries can find out where to send their form and payment by fill-
ing out the simple profile at www.tricare.mil to get information tailored to
their specific location. Once the initial payment is made, monthly premi-
ums must be paid in advance through automated electronic payment.
When the application is processed, TRICARE coverage will begin the
first day of the following month. However, since TYA was “fast-tracked” to
begin enrollment as soon as systems changes, forms, premiums and other
rules governing the program were approved and in place, TRICARE Man-
See TRICARE, Page 12
1099
Dale Mabry Gate
NORTHBOUND
Y
W TRAFFIC DETOUR PLAN
maintenance, closure DALE MABRY GATE H
1086 Y
R
B
Maintenance of the Outbound Vehi- A
M
cle Grab System at Dale Mabry Gate is E
L
scheduled for May 15 from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. AD
North bound traffic on North Boundary 513
Road will be diverted to one southbound
Grab-it Device.
Area of Work
lane during the maintenance. There will
be one lane of travel in either direction.
Please exercise caution through this area
during this time.
Road Closed.
GATE DETOUR
INTERSECTION DETOUR
Cones Between
Opposing Traffic
NORTH BOUNDARY BLVD
Rev. Date: 2 Mar 2011
Description:Vol. 40, No. 19 Friday, May 13, 2011 Photo by Staff Sgt. Shawn Rhodes Senior Airman Robert Dougherty, a reservist with the 927th Air Refueling Wing, sits with his
