Friday, January 30, 2015

CLASSIFIEDS >> 013015

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE COMBAT AIRLIFTER CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to 404 Graham Rd., Jacksonville, Ark. 72078. You may also e-mail them to combatairlifterclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday's issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.

WANTED 10 HOMES to advertise siding, windows or roofs for our 2015 advertising remodeling program. Save hundreds of dollars. Payments $89/month. All credit accepted. To qualify CALL NOW !! 1-866-668-8681.**

MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES NEEDED! Become a Medical Office Assistant at Ayers! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Online training gets you ready. HS Diploma/GED & Internet Required. 1-888-734-6717 Licensed by ASBPCE.**

DO YOU LOVE ANIMALS? TRAIN TO BE  a Veterinary Technician,  800.383-4959, www.ChangeLives.com. Heritage College, 1309 Old Forge Dr. LR,  Heritage has applied for accreditation by the AVMA-Committee on Veterinary Tech Education and Activities. For important program info: please visit www.heritage-education.com/disclosures.**


SERVICES

Insurance Claims. Fire/Flood Loss. You need an experienced attorney. Contact Harvey Harris. 501-604-4517. www.HarveyHarrisLawFirm.com.**

Estate and Probate matters. Contact Harvey Harris, Attorney at Law. 501-604-4517. www.HarveyHarrisLawFirm.com.**

DirecTV Only $19.99 per month - Free premium channels HBO, Starz, Cinemax and Showtime for 3 months and Free Receiver upgrade! NFL 2014 Season Included. 1-800-516-5067.**

DISH TV Retailer. SAVE! Starting $19.99/month (for 12 months.) FREE Premium Movie Channels. FREE Equipment, Installation & Activation. CALL, COMPARE LOCAL DEALS!  1-800-393-5829.**

REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL! Get a whole-home Satellite system installed at NO COST and programming starting at $19.99/mo. FREE HD/DVR Upgrade to new callers. CALL NOW 1-800-474-0423.**


HELP WANTED

$725 WEEK, no experience, air quality testing, 10-15 openings. Must be 18 and have reliable transportation. Paid weekly. Call for interview, Mon.-Fri., 9 am-5 pm, (501) 605-1303.

DRIVERS: $3000 orientation completion bonus! $3000 driver referral bonus! Great pay (new hires, minimum $800 work guarantee)! CDL-A OTR experience required. 1-888-335-1785.

Part-time Children's Coordinator position available with Jacksonville First United Methodist Church. Position is responsible for planning curriculum and programming for ages Pre-K - 5th Grade. Experience working in or leading children's activities preferred. Send resume to info@jacksonvilleumc.com.

OFFICE PRO Needed. Arnett Realty & Investments is seeking dependable person to assist broker & agents w/contracts, listings, marketing, etc. Fast-paced environment. Must be a self-starter & multi-tasker.  Real Estate license/experience a HUGE plus! Addtl. training provided. Send resume to ted.arnett@yahoo.com

Earn $100,000. 1st Yr. Income selling funeral ins. to seniors. Daytime market. Leads furnished. Complete training. Daily pay. Health/Dental provided. Call 1-888-713-6020.**

Can You Dig It? Heavy Equipment Operator Training! 3 Week Program. Bulldozers, Backhoes, Excavators. Lifetime Job Placement Assistance with National Certifications. VA Benefits Eligible! (866) 740-4564.**

Holtger Bros., Inc. Utility Contractor IMMEDIATE OPENINGS in the telephone industry for: CDL Laborers, Foreman, Cable Plow/Bore Rig Operators, Aerial Technicians. Training offered TRAVEL REQUIRED FOR ALL POSITIONS. 1-800-831-0754. www.holtger.com. EOE by AA.**

DRIVERS - TRUCK DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED! Learn to drive for Stevens Transport! EARN $750 PER WEEK! No Experience Needed! We will get you trained! 1-888-778-0459.**

25 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for TMC Transportation! Earn $700 per week! No CDL? No Problem! Training is available! 1-888-248-1948.**

FLATBED DRIVERS Needed - $600.00 Sign on Bonus, Great pay, Health Ins, Retirement Plan,  Vacation, Holiday Pay, Home Weekly, Uniforms and Jackets Provided, Earn $45,000.00 to $60,000.00 Yr., Call Chuck or Jeremy 501-945-1433, Apply in person: 5007 E. Broadway, NLR.**


HORSES

HORSES: LUCKY Acres Boarding Stable, TLC for your horse, box stalls and paddocks, clean pastures, indoor and outdoor arenas, riding instruction and training program. Dressage our specialty. (501) 988-2458.


RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

2007 VULCAN 500, 3,254 miles, new tires & battery 10/13, $2,800 obo. (405) 795-9294.


LAWN & FARM

GRASS Winter Pricing!! Bermuda $1.25/ sq yd* Meyers Z-52, Zoysia - $2.50/sq yd*.  Prices are COD on full truck loads in the LR area. Call 800-458-4756.**


HOUSES FOR RENT

Jacksonville - $0 Deposit - 1, 2 & 3 bedroom MH's in nice, quiet, safe park, $400-$600 per month. "One bedroom includes utilities."  Call (501) 472-4100.

COZY STUDIO apartment with wood burning fireplace in Jacksonville. Appliance filled kitchen. Starting at $295 plus utilities. No children or pets. Military discount available. Camp Construction, (501) 982-0434.

FOR SALE or Rent: 35 Carriage Cove, 3 BR/2 BA, 1425 sq. ft.; 255 Richfield, Jacksonville, 4 BR/2 BA, 1352 sq. ft.; 200 Third St., Ward, 2 BR/1 BA, approx. 1100 sq. ft.; 3639 Hwy. 367, Austin, duplex, 2 BR/1 BA, 900 sq. ft. Call (501) 590-2438.

FOR RENT: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, double garage, nice house. 24 Bent Tree, Cabot. Fenced backyard, central heat & air. No pets, deposit $600, rent $975. (501) 250-3626 after 2 pm.


HOUSES FOR SALE


MOVE-IN READY home - 2717 E. Maryland, Sherwood. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, eat-in kitchen & dining room, new paint, 2+ car garage, fireplace, master suite w/jetted tub. Pristine. Motivated seller. (501) 944-1597.

TOP STORY >> 19th LRS delivers fuel

By Senior Airman Kaylee Clark
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Two Airmen from Little Rock Air Force Base loaded and flew with an Aerial Bulk Fuel Delivery System on a C-130J Jan. 16 during GREEN FLAG Little Rock at Fort Polk, Louisiana. 

Senior Airman Hunter Tucker, 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels management flight fuels lab technician and Senior Airman Richard Hayes, 19th LRS fuels management flight fixed-facilities fuels technician, gained experienced with the ABFDS during GFLR.

The Aerial Bulk Fuel Delivery System is used to deliver fuel to austere locations where fuel may not otherwise be accessible. One complete ABFDS system contains a pumping module and one 3,000-gallon fuel bladder.  

Flight qualified fuels management Airmen attend a five-day in-residence course at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, as well as receive flight physicals and physiological training.  They are required to maintain flight qualifications and perform annual refresher training on the ABFDS equipment.

Little Rock AFB currently has eight members qualified on ABFDS.  

“The experience was definitely a lot more fast paced than I originally though it would be,” said Tucker. “I definitely enjoyed getting to see the way our career field operates with a different branch of the military.” 

A two-person ABFDS team accompanies and operates the equipment while filling and offloading the fuel.

During flight, the ABFDS team constantly inspects the equipment to ensure no fuel leaks or other deficiencies appear that could jeopardize the safety of the aircraft and aircrew.  

After landing in Alexandria, Louisiana, the fuel team filled the bladder with 3,000 gallons of fuel to be flown to a landing zone in Fort Polk. 

“We obviously worked outside of our organization, which was also another change, but seeing the way different organizations came together to make this happen was great,” said Tucker. 

Once on the ground in Louisiana, the 10th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Brigade Combat Team, 10th Mountain Division, secured the area around the C-130J while it downloaded fuel from the fuel bladder onto an Army Oshkosh HEMTT M978 A4 fuel serving tanker.


“The GFLR gave our team an opportunity that many other ABFDS operators around the Air Force never get, and both Tucker and Hayes were motivated and excited to put their training to use,” said Chief Master Sgt. Eric Green, 19th LRS fuels management flight fuels manager.  “They did an outstanding job and helped make GFLR a complete success.”

TOP STORY >> Arming aircrew with survival skills

By Senior Airman Kaylee Clark
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Survival, evasion, resistance and escape instructors are trained from day one to survive on their own. Tech. Sgt. John Conant IV, a 34th Combat Training Squadron SERE specialist lives this training every day. 

Conant is stationed at Fort Polk, Louisiana, a state away from his home unit, the 34th CTS-an isolated situation for the SERE specialist. 

“This can be a foreign feeling to some, but you just have to find a way to meet your needs, improvise along the way, think outside the box, and press forward,” said Conant. “It isn’t impossible; it just doesn’t come easy.” 

Conant serves as the section chief for joint SERE operations for GREEN FLAG Little Rock.

All aircrews that flew to Alexandria, Louisiana, during GFLR Jan. 13-20 were notified to prepare for the possibility of enduring SERE training. Prior to the aircrew’s arrival, Conant filled canteens with water and ensured the crew members’ survival vests were good to go. 

“Of course nobody wants to go through this, but our job is to prepare them for the worst possible day of their life,” said Conant.

Once the aircraft was parked on the flightline, he approached the crew to inform them they had 90 seconds to gather what they needed and get off of the aircraft. 

The SERE specialists explained to observers, “When they see SERE instructors coming and hear them say, ‘grab what you need’, they know what they are about to endure, and most aren’t happy about it.”

All aircrew Airmen are required to go through SERE training. But after initial schooling, Airmen are only required to attend a SERE refresher training every three years at their home station. 

Conant briefed the crew on the way to Fort Polk to watch for prominent, geographic landmarks and pay attention to the turns that were made. These details would help the crew locate themselves on a map at the drop-off point. 

After driving to a remote location surrounded with pine trees and dense brush, Conant supplied the team with a button compass for their navigation to the extraction point. 

“There’s millions of ways to survive,” said Conant. “I can teach you to build a fire a dozen different ways, but I can’t teach you the want to live.”

Although crossing the muddy, unfamiliar terrain was a physical obstacle, the team excelled at keeping quiet to avoid the potential opposing forces.

Conant’s presence to answer questions or support the crew in a time of need is improbable in the event of a real isolated situation.

“My drive to do this job is knowing I have armed someone with the skills necessary to handle a worst case scenario,” said Conant. “I could spend 20 plus years in this career field and still be learning and attempting to master every aspect until the day I hang up the uniform.”


After 11 grueling hours of trudging through Louisiana’s sub-tropical conditions, the team made it to their extraction point in the pitch-black of the night, and Conant had successfully led another crew through training.

TOP STORY >> 34th CTS provides tactical training

By Senior Airman Kaylee Clark
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The 34th Combat Training Squadron, various Air Force bases and an Army division participated in GREEN FLAG Little Rock Jan. 13-20, 2015, at Fort. Polk, Louisiana.

The 34th CTS’ motto Si Vis Palem Para Bellum, “If you want peace, prepare for war,” directly reflected the mission of GFLR.

“We are going to train you hard,” said Maj. Jeremy Wagner, 34th CTS director of operations. “We are going to challenge your airmanship and leadership.” 

Participants were from Dyess Air Force Base, Texas; Travis AFB, California; Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey; and an Army division from Ft. Drum, New York.

Four units also participated virtually from Joint Base Lewis-McChord, Washington; Travis AFB; Joint Base McGuire Dix-Lakehurst; and Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina. 

“These units flew their simulators and linked up to our participants at Ft.  Polk,” said Wagner.  “They had radios linked to their simulators to talk in real time during the exercise. Each virtual mission saved hundreds of thousands of dollars.”

The goal was to improve on crew and mission management, situational awareness, airspace compliance and weather planning.

“We feel like the exercise was outstanding,” said Wagner.  “Our simulator integration with the geographically-separated units was a huge accomplishment for GFLR.”  

The 34th CTS orchestrates GFLR between six to 10 times per year as participants make themselves available.


The exercise provided the most realistic, tactical-level, joint combat employment training, tailored to mobility Air Force needs.

Friday, January 23, 2015

CLASSIFIEDS 012315

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE COMBAT AIRLIFTER CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to 404 Graham Rd., Jacksonville, Ark. 72078. You may also e-mail them to combatairlifterclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday's issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.

WANTED 10 HOMES to advertise siding, windows or roofs  for our 2015 advertising remodeling program.  Save hundreds of dollars. Payments $89/month. All credit accepted.To qualify CALL NOW !!  1-866-668-8681.**

MEDICAL BILLING TRAINEES NEEDED! Become a Medical Office Assistant at Ayers! NO EXPERIENCE NEEDED! Online training gets you ready. HS Diploma/GED & Internet Required. 1-888-734-6717 Licensed by ASBPCE.**

Can You Dig It? Heavy Equipment Operator Training! 3 Week Program. Bulldozers, Backhoes, Excavators. Lifetime Job Placement Assistance with National Certifications.
VA Benefits Eligible! (866) 740-4564.**


SERVICES

DirecTV Only $19.99 per month - Free premium channels HBO, Starz, Cinemax and Showtime for 3 months and Free Receiver upgrade! NFL 2014 Season Included. 1-800-516-5067.**

DISH TV Retailer. SAVE! Starting $19.99/month (for 12 months.) FREE Premium Movie Channels. FREE Equipment, Installation & Activation. CALL, COMPARE LOCAL DEALS!  1-800-393-5829.**

REDUCE YOUR CABLE BILL! Get a whole-home Satellite system installed at NO COST and programming starting at $19.99/mo. FREE HD/DVR Upgrade to new callers. CALL NOW 1-800-474-0423.**


HELP WANTED

$725 WEEK, no experience, air quality testing, 10-15 openings. Must be 18 and have reliable transportation. Paid weekly. Call for interview, Mon.-Fri., 9 am-5 pm, (501) 605-1303.

DRIVERS: $3000 orientation completion bonus! $3000 driver referral bonus! Great pay (new hires, minimum $800 work guarantee)! CDL-A OTR experience required. 1-888-335-1785.

Part-time Children's Coordinator position available with Jacksonville First United Methodist Church. Position is responsible for planning curriculum and programming for ages Pre-K - 5th Grade. Experience working in or leading children's activities preferred. Send resume to info@jacksonvilleumc.com.

SAFETY COORDINATOR - Steel Construction/Fabrication company seeking a Safety professional for shops in LR AR. Min. of 2 yrs. Safety and/or 5 yrs. Construction Exp.  required. Current Red Cross approved First Aid 7 CPR Certification. EMT certification pref. Must have knowledge of Microsoft Office. Current Drivers license with Exc. driving history is required. Competitive salary/benefits pkg. Call 1-800-925-4565 or email resume: danna@lexgrpinc.com.**

NIGHT NURSE - FULL TIME, 7pm - 8am For large healthcare facility. Apply in person at: NeuroRestorative Timber Ridge, 5000 Hwy 298, Benton, AR 72019, 501-594-5211 ext. 8236 OR resumes can be emailed to: heather.moore@thementornetwork.com, EOE.**

Earn $100,000. 1st Yr. Income selling funeral ins. to seniors. Daytime market. Leads furnished. Complete training. Daily pay. Health/Dental provided. Call 1-888-713-6020.**

DRIVERS- TRUCK DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED! Learn to drive for Stevens Transport! EARN $750 PER WEEK! No Experience Needed! We will get you trained! 1-888-778-0459.**

25 DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED NOW! Become a driver for TMC Transportation! Earn $700 per week! No CDL? No Problem! Training is available! 1-888-248-1948.**

Butler Transport - Your Partner in Excellence. CDL Class A Drivers Needed. Sign on Bonus! All miles paid. 1-800-528-7825 or www.ButlerTransport.com.**


HORSES

HORSES: LUCKY Acres Boarding Stable, TLC for your horse, box stalls and paddocks, clean pastures, indoor and outdoor arenas, riding instruction and training program. Dressage our specialty. (501) 988-2458.


RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

2007 VULCAN 500, 3,254 miles, new tires & battery 10/13, $2,800 obo. (405) 795-9294.


LAWN & FARM

GRASS Winter Pricing!! Bermuda $1.25/ sq yd* Meyers Z-52, Zoysia - $2.50/sq yd*.  * Prices are COD on full truck loads in the LR area. Call 800-458-4756.**


MISC.

COIN OPERATED LAUNDRY EQUIPMENT FOR SALE - 20 Top-loading Washers, 6 front-loading washers, 10 Dryers, Hot Water Heater, Large Water Tank, Bill Changer, 870-448-3061.**


HOUSES FOR RENT

Jacksonville - $0 Deposit - 1, 2 & 3 bedroom MH's in nice, quiet, safe park, $400-$600 per month. "One bedroom includes utilities." Call (501) 472-4100.

COZY STUDIO apartment with wood burning fireplace in Jacksonville. Appliance filled kitchen. Starting at $295 plus utilities. No children or pets. Military discount available. Camp Construction, (501) 982-0434.

ROOMMATES WANTED in beautiful 4 bedroom, 3 bath. Large rooms, walk-in closets, very quiet, plenty of paved parking, pool, utilities split between occupants. $375 month. (501) 605-3585 or bwestbrook51@gmail.com.


HOUSES FOR SALE


MOVE-IN READY home - 2717 E. Maryland, Sherwood. 3 bedroom, 2 bath, eat-in kitchen & dining room, new paint, 2+ car garage, fireplace, master suite w/jetted tub. Pristine. Motivated seller. (501) 944-1597.

TOP STORY >> International students: LRAFB home away from home

By Senior Airman Kaylee Clark
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Visiting a foreign country can be an exciting yet an intimidating experience. Imagine traveling to an unfamiliar country to learn to fly or maintain an aircraft in a second or third language.

Master Sgt. Larry Holland, a C-130 aircraft mechanic and the 714th Training Squadron noncommissioned officer-in-charge of international students, helps foreign students learn the ways of the C-130. 

Holland became the 714th TRS International Military Student Office NCOIC in March of this year.

His job is a two-fold position, comparable to a liaison; he takes care of the students’ needs as soon as he is notified a student will be attending training here, and similar to a first sergeant, he provides guidance to each student when needed.

“The students in process just like any other Airman,” said Holland. “Since some of the students have never been to America we give them an orientation briefing to inform them about the local area such as the weather and even the native animals.”

Poland, Kuwait, Botswana, Afghanistan, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Belgium and Singapore are all currently represented at the “Center of Excellence.” Instructors train these students for various careers such as a C-130H or C-130J pilot, loadmaster or navigator and also maintainers. 

Most of the students go through Defense Language Institute English Language Comprehension in San Antonio, Texas, prior to coming here.

“A lot of them do have thick accents, but the students must score an 85 percent on an English comprehension test,” said Holland. “The standards are higher here because of safety issues since they are flying aircraft.”

Training can range from two weeks for refresher training or up to six months for initial training. 

During these weeks or months, the students participate in a Field Studies Program. Foreign countries pay into the Field Studies Program when they purchase the training, so while Air Force Security Assistance Training manages the finances, the actual money comes from the countries of origin so the students can experience American culture and history. 

Foreign students come here for training, but when they leave they take with them not only a wealth of knowledge but also a taste of local culture and a small experience of American living. The Field Studies program is designed to help students better understand different aspects of American culture, such as the democratic political process, free market system, western education, media, and health and human services

“We will take them to Memphis, Tennessee, to visit the Civil Rights Museum and to Graceland to further learn about an icon in American culture, because everyone knows Elvis,” Holland said, laughing. 

Holland explained that being able to take care of the students and making sure they have what they need and seeing them happy makes him love what he does. 


“Other nations send us the best of the best to train, so the quality of foreign student is incredibly high. The C-130 world is a close knit family and forging friendships here at Little Rock AFB pays dividends on the battlefield,” said Capt. Jason Spaulding, 714 TRS International Military Student Officer. “Working closely with our international partners in the training environment translates directly to operational success as we fly combat airlift missions around the world. Odds are, that when we say goodbye after course completion, we will work with each other again.” 

TOP STORY >> Shut up and color: How a 3-year-old saved cancer patient

By Senior Airman Regina Edwards
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

In 1991, he was on top of the world, in the prime of his life and the healthiest he’d ever been. 

Then 24-year-old “Buck” Sgt. Jimmy Ku, a crew chief stationed at Patrick Air Force Base, Florida, was six years into his Air Force career as well as a year into his marriage and new role as stepfather to two daughters. He woke up one October morning with a severe pain on the right side of his groin that changed his life as he knew it.

“It felt like I’d been kicked in the groin,” said Chief Master Sgt. Jimmy Ku, 19th Maintenance Group superintendent.

At first, doctors diagnosed his pain as an infection. For three weeks they treated it as such, and for three weeks there was no response.

An ultrasound located masses on both the right and left side of his groin area, and though doctors assured Ku that most likely it would be benign, it wasn’t. 

A biopsy revealed that Ku had testicular cancer. 

It was so bad that the doctors stated they didn’t have to send it to pathology to identify it, although they did anyway.

With his wife, Annette, by his side, Ku had a bilateral radical orchiectomy in November. It not only removed both testicles, it took away his right and chance to have children of his own.

“I was in shock,” he said. “I was in disbelief. It didn’t really sink in until the doctor said I may have to receive testosterone treatments for the rest of my life, and I will never be able to have kids. It was a low blow. I mean, I was 24; I had just moved to Florida. I was at the healthiest point of my life, so I thought, and then my world came crashing down with that news.”

After more tests in December, Ku and his team of doctors discovered that his cancer, embryonal carcinoma, had spread, and there was only a 40 percent chance of him surviving. He was immediately sent to Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, his hometown, for chemotherapy.

Hearing those words, Ku said he went to a very low and dark place. A man who was once strong in his faith was now questioning God, asking the question most people ask when impossible circumstances occur: why me?   

For the next five months, the new normal for Ku was three cycles of chemo which entailed: long days of treatment, the breakdown of his immune system, the loss of his hair as well as his will to go on. His cancer was so aggressive, that he received the amount of chemo in a week that others would receive in a month.  

“It was tough,” Ku said, “but family, friends and my local childhood church were very supportive. Even the hospital was supportive; they offered a cancer survivor support group.”

But Ku wanted nothing to do with it. He was still bitter. He was still angry. He was done.

“To me, at the time, I just wasn’t in that right mind set to cope with it,” he said. “I didn’t want to listen to people tell me, ‘we support you,’ because even though I knew other people were going through cancer and chemo, none of them knew what I was going through.”

After weeks of sulking, Ku received a tiny unexpected gift that shined a bright light into his darkness.

“It was the second cycle that I was in, and my wife was staying at the Fisher House, which is something like the Ronald McDonald House,” Ku said. “She was walking down the hall to go to the kitchen, and she saw this little girl. She was 3 years old, dragging her IV tree down the hall. She asked my wife, ‘do you have a sick little girl?’ My wife said, ‘No. It’s my husband that’s sick.’”

The girl asked if she could play with her husband, so the next day, Annette proposed a play date with her husband and this little girl.

At first, Ku was unmoved in his despair. Entertaining a toddler was absolutely not his idea of therapy or relaxation at the time. Ironically, in his refusal to play, Ku displayed his own form of a temper tantrum.

Despite his objections, she showed up anyway, right before Ku had to leave for chemo. She refused to take no for an answer. The innocence in her raspy, quiet voice persuaded Ku to let his guard down. 

She came in with her IV tree and little satchel bag, holding coloring books and crayons, climbed up on Ku’s bed and changed his life forever.

Telling the story now, Ku stared off into nothing as if he was transported back in that moment. He took a long, deep breath as he teared up and whispered, “She just wanted to color and play.”

“And as we were doing that,” he said, “it slapped me in the face. I’d been a brat and idiot all this time. This little girl didn’t know any different; this was life to her. I’ve lived a full life up until now, and I’m mad at the world because this happened to me. She was born with this. And she was living life every day to the fullest, coloring with not a care in the world. There was my resilience; it hit me in the face right then and there and said, Jimmy Ku, you need to wake up; you need to grow up. She was the adult; I was the spoiled little kid.”

That girl walked out of his room that day, and he never saw her again.  But what she left behind was something greater than some pictures to hang on the wall. Ku had a new outlook on everything in his life. He was changed inwardly and began to show it outwardly. Not only did Ku attend the support groups, he spoke there, telling others that faith and a positive attitude will go a long way. 

Trying to stop tears from falling down his face, he mustered the words, “That little girl saved my life. I would have stayed in that dark time if she hadn’t basically told me to shut up and color, handed me the crayons and ultimately altered my attitude. It helped me. It helped me a lot. Seeing her carry on taught me that there’s more to life. I saw how positive she was, and I tried to be that going forward.”

At the end of his chemotherapy, Ku became a part of that 40 percent and was cancer free. 

“I went back to Patrick [AFB] in May 1992 and was placed on temporary disability,” he said. “Basically it was kind of like me being forced to medically retire. I didn’t want to retire, so I fought it. After one year and another medical evaluation, I was placed back on active status.”

Ku said he could not be more appreciative of how the Air Force took care of him. 

“I’m very fortunate that I was able to overcome all of this adversity and enjoy life with a different perspective, while serving my country. I never imagined while going through all of this that I’d be where I am today. I wasn’t given a high probability of beating the cancer, so the thought of eventually making Chief certainly wasn’t in my mind then. I was fortunate to have the support of my family, specifically my wife, great supervisors and leadership throughout the illness as well as after. The Air Force has been extremely good to me and my family.” 

Today, Ku said he is the kind of person that is free spirited, has fun but does his job and doesn’t take everything so seriously. He and his wife of 25 years are now grandparents, and Ku will be retiring this summer from a successful 30-year military career. He still has to have tests run every five years, but it doesn’t stop him from cherishing even the littlest moments in his life.   

“Nothing is that serious or that important. I live life in a more relaxed way. I don’t sweat the small things because of what I’ve been through and what I saw others go through. Some people don’t make it. But I did, and I’m grateful.”


A 3-year-old girl, also suffering from cancer came into Ku’s life, and with one day and a few moments of play time, shook his world and gave him a gift that saved his life: color.

TOP STORY >> Base conducts Innovation and Improvements Facebook Town Hall

Courtesy of 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Col. Patrick Rhatigan, 19th Airlift Wing and installation commander, hosted Little Rock Air Force Base’s 2015 Innovation and Improvements Facebook Town Hall Jan. 13 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Team Little Rock community members virtually attended the event, addressing issues on topics such as modernization and enhancement. The discussion ranged from mission objectives to infrastructure to internal processes and more. The base commander was joined by leaders and team members from the 19th Airlift Wing in order to address the community’s concerns.

“I could not be prouder of your accomplishments in 2014, and I want to express one big thank you to our Airmen for their excellence and dedication to combat airlift,” said Rhatigan. “Last year was filled with amazing feats in the face of adversity, but we continued to commit ourselves to executing the mission.”

“So we begin 2015, and a new year brings new changes,” said Rhatigan. “Part of our ability to adapt and overcome when faced with challenges is through innovation.”

More than a dozen questions were posted, and subject matter experts answered most, if not all, concerns during the one-hour event. Here are the questions and answers from the event:

Q1: Issue - Leadership Pathways Participation

A1: I will make sure your suggestions are reviewed by the Community Support Coordinator and the Leadership Pathways POC to find the best way to add classes, improve current classes, as well as, better advertise the classes available. We will work with the respective subject matter experts (financial, Security Forces, and Protocol) to determine if they have the resources to implement your suggestions and if providing possible “tracks or paths” is a direction we wish to take this program. Please continue to send your suggestions and ideas regarding Leadership Pathways to Public Affairs or to our Community Support Coordinator, Mrs. Stephanie Wynn, anytime! Mrs. Wynn and her team review all recommendations and implement new classes or processes continually.

Q2: Issue – Face Time with Leadership

A2: I appreciate your observation and honest feedback. I absolutely agree that opportunities for frank discussions with leadership are valuable and more effort should be made for small group discussions. In the past we have held Chief Chats as well as hosted small group discussions called REAL Talks that focused specifically on the topic of sexual assault. I assure you that I will continue to encourage leadership down to the lowest level to look for innovative ways, and to take the time, to meet with their Airmen to discuss issues in a safe environment. You have given us an important area in which we can better communicate with and understand our Airmen.

Q3: Issue – Security Cameras to Help Prevent Sexual Assault

A3: Thank you for your suggestion to add security cameras in our efforts to prevent sexual assault. I appreciate your commitment to ending sexual assault at our base, and I want to first start to answer your question by emphasizing one of the best tools we have to prevent this crime starts with each of us as Wingmen. We have a duty to intervene when we see something wrong, inappropriate or harmful to our fellow Airmen. 

As far as security cameras are concerned, we have looked into this as a prevention method, but it only goes so far. In 2014, there were 22 reports that occurred on base, with six of those happening in our dorms. These assaults, more often than not, tend to happen at a private residence, behind closed doors. 

As I mentioned before, community self-policing has shown a greater impact. Peers have proven to be the most impactful tool to reduce assaults and other kinds of misconduct. You don’t have to do everything, but we want you to something...start by speaking up! Thank you for thinking hard about an issue that impacts all of us.

Q4: Issue – Community Policing

A4: Our Security Forces Defenders have a serious and difficult mission to protect the base community. If there is threat to life or injury on base, our defenders and first responders have the training and resources to handle such situations. It’s always helpful to have extra eyes on base to alert us if a situation occurs, however Security Forces would be the only organization able to provide a function under the title of a community policing program. Please know we do have programs currently available for our community members to alert us of a security concern, threat, or suspicious activity. You can contact our Crime Stop Hotline 24/7 at (501) 987-6600 or the Law Enforcement Desk 24/7 at (501) 987-3221. You can also learn more about the Air Force’s Office of Special Investigations Eagle Eye program: http://www.littlerock.af.mil/news/story.asp?id=123411133

Q5: Issue – Physical Training Leader Program & Unit PT

A5: Our Force Support Squadron and Health and Wellness Center teams have combined their resources to continue providing monthly PTL training programs. The base’s current program is already using some innovative techniques. For example, as the Air Force transitions the required PTL course to virtual training (CBT), Little Rock will continue to offer our in-house training located at the Fitness Center.

Ultimately, the PTL program is supported at the unit level. In theory, a unit could have as many PTLs they needed/wanted, as long as they meet the requirement. Units are welcome to send any Airmen who meet these PTL requirements to the Force Support Squadron’s training to ensure their unit is adequately supported. Moreover, the kind of creative workouts or supportive fitness programs you mentioned are entirely up to the unit and how it wants to implement the PTL program. I encourage you to bring your ideas for new ways to utilize the PTLs to your first sergeant or direct supervisor in order to help raise the morale and unit cohesion you discussed.

Q6: Issue – Barrier Construction at Front Gate 

A6: I’m glad to hear that the changes implemented by SFS are appreciated. I’ll be sure to pass to our folks standing at the gates your thanks. As to the barriers at the front gate, please understand we have a lot of wear and tear to our roads and barriers. I agree a lot of work still needs to be done to bring our roads up to standards. The project that installed the vehicle denial barriers is an Anti-Terrorism/Force Protection improvements project. The contract is ongoing and some portions of the work have been accepted by CES to include the barriers. The pavement has not been contracted out. Our civil engineers and contracting personnel are monitoring the condition of the pavements. Construction materials and workmanship of construction projects are reviewed by multiple base entities, to include but not limited to, Civil Engineering, Contracting, Communications, Security Forces, and Wing Safety before final acceptance of the contract work. We will continue to monitor the conditions at the barriers and make appropriate changes when and if needed. Furthermore, over the next year or so we will complete multiple pavement projects that will improve some of worst streets across the installation. Thanks for noticing our ongoing efforts to improve our aging infrastructure!

Q7: Issue – Crossing Guard Program

A7: The crossing guard program is taken very seriously as we are all concerned for the safety of our children. I understand the program coordinators are aware of the cases you may be referring to when both the primary and alternate volunteer did not show up. Since these cases, the Rising 6 leaders have been proactive in increasing communication lines with Arnold Drive to eliminate this from happening. If for any reason the volunteers do not show up for their shift, the school has the name and number of points of contact within the Rising 6 to find a replacement. While the Crossing Guard program provides for the safety of the children, the school is ultimately responsible for children crossing the street and must task a teacher to perform this duty in the absence of volunteers. Of course, we never want it to come to a situation where the safety of our children is compromised. I encourage you to get in touch with the school to learn more about the crossing guard program and find out how volunteers are selected. Be assured that safety is a top priority for me. Thank you for bringing this to our attention, your suggestion could prevent an accident in the future! If you have more questions about the program, please contact Public Affairs at (501) 987-5855, and they will put you in touch with the Rising 6.

Q8: Issue – 2015 Outlook for Team Little Rock

A8: I can tell you that Airmen from right here at Little Rock AFB are employing combat airlift around the globe. We have more than 400 Airmen deployed right now. This month, we started our deployment rotations to the AFRICOM and EUCOM. We sent more than 100 Airmen downrange to assist with USAFE’s “New Normal,” missions in the Horn of Africa, all while we are still supporting the follow-on mission to OEF, Operation Freedom’s Sentinel. Even though our operations are changing, we are still called upon to support many routine airlift missions, support a variety of contingencies around the world, and we are doing heavy lifting in Afghanistan.

At home station, you may start to notice multiple construction projects as we keep striving to improve our infrastructure throughout the installation. Remember this base was built in 1955! Additionally, in April we will officially open “The Commons” building which will serve as a centralized location for the A&FRC, Library, and Community Center.

Lastly, one of our biggest focuses in 2015 will be innovation – a contributing factor for tonight’s town hall theme. I want to challenge Team Little Rock to ask themselves, “how can you enhance or improve your unit’s capabilities?” I’ve said before that we have no extra people or money...our budgets are tight and our personnel numbers are shrinking. We need innovative ideas to help work through these potential manning and fiscal challenges, and continue to make our Air Force the world’s greatest air force. In fact, we will be launching a local program for you to submit your innovative ideas right here on base!

Ultimately, it is difficult to predict what challenges we, as Team Little Rock, will face in the future. No matter what the future holds, exceptional Airmen from Little Rock will stand ready to provide Combat Airlift anywhere, anytime.

Q9: Issue – Child Care at Gym

A9: As someone who has children and loves to work out on a regular basis, I can understand how important it is to have dedicated workout time. In fact, I hear this question on a regular basis. We’ve been researching options for a solution that would meet the needs of parents seeking child care while at the fitness center. We would love to hear your thoughts and ideas. Please contact Mr. Aaron Leach, the Fitness Center Director at (501) 987-7716, with any ideas you may have. Along with the family fitness room, we also offer the “Mommy & Me” fitness class for those interested working out along with their children. Thank you for your post to the town hall!

Q10: Issue – Old BX Plans

A10: I am really proud to report that we have spent the last couple years renovating the facility and will be opening “The Commons” in early March. The Commons will provide a one-stop-shop for Airmen, families and retirees by housing the Airmen and Family Readiness Center, library, community center, and a coffee shop. It’s going to rock and be a great gathering place for our Airmen in the heart of the installation. Combining these vital base assets, we hope to be able to provide more efficient customer service to the Airmen and families of Team Little Rock. Thank you for your patience as we modernize our aging facilities and posture for the future!

Q11: Issue – Health and Wellness Education

A11: We have an outstanding Health and Wellness Center staff that provides classes on health and exercise, including the “Be Well” class and numerous Vital 90 classes, which both incorporate nutrition and exercise. For class opportunities, please visit the Health and Wellness Center located within the Fitness Center, the LRAFB HAWC Facebook page, or call (501) 987-7288. If there are classes you would like to recommend, please contact Mr. Jeff Vaughn at the HAWC to submit your suggestions. Thanks for trying to make our Airmen healthier!

Q12: Kudos to Team Little Rock

A12: It is great to hear your appreciation for Team Little Rock leadership! I’m humbled and amazed to be a part of what we do here every day. I’ll be sure to pass along your thanks to Lt. Col. Brooks, and we are certainly glad to have her back home. Let me take the time to thank the Team Little Rock Airmen who make the mission here happen every day. You are the reason we remain the world’s greatest Air Force!

Q13: Issue – New Technology Private Org on Base

A13: We appreciate your efforts to bring as many innovative tools, including dedicated organizations to Little Rock AFB. As you continue to seek out establishing a local Armed Forces Communications and Electronic Association (AFCEA) chapter, please reach out to the FSS Resource Management Flight for guidance and support for establishing a private organization. They will help you with any questions you may have throughout the process. Melissa Walsh manages the program, and can be reached at 987-6930. Good luck and thank you for stepping up in the community!

Q14: Issue – Base Housing Safety/Health Concerns

A14: We understand your concern and would also want safe and healthy housing for our families. We are aware of the mold issue and other reports and are actively working with Hunt Communities to identify and address these issues. I know that Hunt has sent maintenance personnel to some of the houses to investigate mold issues...it has everyone’s attention! We have Hunt Communities representatives here who promise to continue to work this issue until you are satisfied! We ask you to contact Hunt Communities at (501) 983-9044 to file your specific issue and continue to provide them any updates or information on your specific situation. However, if you are not receiving the help you need with Hunt Communities, please contact our housing liaison representative within Civil Engineering at (501) 987-2358. 

Q15: Issue – Next Airshow

A15: Unfortunately, due to our runway construction, we do not have an open house/air show scheduled for 2015 at this time. Hopefully, when our runway is back to full length in 2017, we will hold our next air show to highlight our Combat Airlift capabilities! Please contact Public Affairs for the latest air show update.

Q16: Issue – Observation Area on Runway

A16: We know that several other bases have observation decks, and how amazing it is to watch the planes bank and fly overhead! We will look into this suggestion, and do some research to see if this project is feasible here. In the meantime, there many areas on base which offer amazing views of our aircraft. The easiest area to access is the open field across from the Base Exchange. If you drive down Cannon Drive and turn right onto Fourth Street just before the soccer fields, you will find a large open area that offers a good view of the flightline. Additionally, if you take Thomas Avenue toward the flightline and turn right on Third Street, you will find an area between Thomas and Vandenberg which offers good views as well. It is slightly obscured by buildings, but closer to the flightline. I hope this helps with your suggestion in the meantime as an interim solution. Keep the good ideas coming!

Q17: Issue – Loose Dogs in Housing

A17: Thank you for your concern regarding loose animals in base housing. An unsupervised animal roaming the neighborhood can be treacherous for the dog and for our fellow neighbors. If you are unable to resolve your problem through conversation with your neighbor, please contact Security Forces at (501) 987-3221. Security Forces will contact the Jacksonville Police Department or Jacksonville Animal Control to collect the animal if it is dangerous or in danger. Also, please contact Hunt Communities at (501) 983-9044 to allow them to investigate and engage the owners if appropriate. 

Q18: Issue – Shoppette Hours

A18: You make a great point about the multiple stores! However, the appropriate source for comments and suggestions regarding the shoppettes is AAFES. AAFES owns all the shoppettes and makes the business decisions on hours, merchandise, etc. You may contact AAFES directly at (501) 988-1150. Otherwise, we will gladly work with them to provide a response in a timely manner following this town hall.

Q19: Issue – Manning in 314th AMXS


A19: Thank you for participating in the town hall tonight! I appreciate your foresight into potential problems in the Aircraft Maintenance Units, but tonight’s purpose is about innovation for the future. If you have questions about your AMU, please contact 314th AMXS leadership. 

Friday, January 16, 2015

SPORTS >> Rivals repeat preseason game

By Senior Airman Regina Edwards
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The heat was on Monday night despite the 30 degree weather outside, as the 19th Maintenance Group and the 19th Force Support Squadron faced each other once again on the court. The game would be an unexpected repeat of their previous match up during the preseason game. 

“The pre-season game against [the 19th FSS team] was a close one, but we’re ready,” said Senior Airman Mike Delozier, the 19th MXG coach, as he and his team practiced before the game. “We won it then; we should take it again.”

In the first half, the consistency, chemistry and great communication from the 19th FSS led to false predictions of their victory. Senior Airman Malik Royal, the 19th FSS coach, steered his team on and off the court, but careless fouls and a bigger hustle from the 19th MXG changed the game.    

The second half was full of fouls, free throws and fans yelling from the crowds. The gym was in an uproar due to the back and forth steals, blocks and occasional 3-pointers. 

During a timeout, communication was the game plan for the 19th MXG. With less than five minutes in the game, the 19th MXG had a 7-point lead, 40–33. 

“They’re tired out there; get’em,” yelled a supporter for the now winning team.

Emotions ran high in the final moments. A frustrated Royal debated calls with the referees, while showboating from Delozier caused his team a technical foul.

After falling short in the first half, the 19th MXG regrouped and in the end, held on to the lead and didn’t look back. They ultimately won, 55-46.

“We love to beat services,” said Delozier jokingly. “We’re rivals. They’re a pretty decent team. We had to just play harder.”

And they did.

Delozier said though his team has been finding it hard to gain their rhythm in the first half of the games thus far this season, he knows what they are capable of doing.


“We start slow, but we finish strong,” he said.