By Master Sgt. Margarita Overton
19th Airlift Wing Command Chief
Many of our news headlines today are littered with words like “challenging,” difficult” and “problematic” indicating that the future will bring tough decisions and tough times. While these words are meant to manage expectations of the future budgetary picture, as Airmen, these same words can deter us from our overall mission and potentially lead us down the road of fear, uncertainty and doubt. This “real talk” from media outlets, politicians and service chiefs reminds us of the very real challenges that could await our Air Force in the very-near future, but even in the face of adversity, I encourage you to keep it R.E.A.L.
Take the first step with “R”— remember our history and where we came from as an Air Force. Throughout our brief but rich history, every generation of Airmen has faced and overcome challenges. History shows sharp fluctuations in personnel and resources through various wars and conflicts. Steep demobilization occurred after World War I, and in the 20 year period between the two world wars, our air branch was stagnated while our leaders faced the task of reorganization, while dealing with inter-service rivalries, but overcame these challenges on the way to establishing the Air Force as a separate branch of service.
During World War II heroic service members of the Army Air Corps showed their grit and determination, dominating the skies over both Germany and Japan. After air power made it possible for the Allies to claim total victory over the Axis powers, massive demobilization occurred again.
This trend of ramp-up/ramp-down has occurred for all of the services throughout our Nation’s history, but how have service members responded in the face of this adversity? They’ve dominated the skies and were resilient, as airpower continued and continues to prevail through the Cold War, Dessert Storm and Dessert Shield, the Global War on Terrorism, to today as we conduct operations in multiple theaters.
Budgetary actions and sequestration can cause uncertainty, but remember, our proud heritage and legacy remains — the USAF, propelled by you, is the most respected and powerful air, space and cyberspace force in the entire world.
Our next step is “E” — encouraging our Airmen and ourselves.
To encourage means to inspire with hope, courage or confidence. We can do this regardless of whether we are in a leadership position or not. Positive attitudes are contagious. Recently I got hooked on the show “the Biggest Loser,” because it’s a show about real people striving to make positive behavioral changes for better health. One of the trainers, Jillian Michaels made a statement that really illustrates the point of attitude. She said, “You can’t change circumstances; you have no control over all the events that occur in life…you can only change yourself and your response to those events or circumstances.” What we tell ourselves truly matters.
Of course encouragement, like everything else, should be R.E.A.L. Hard-truths shouldn’t be honey-coated, and as an Air Force we could be set to face some hard time, but a R.E.A.L. leader, supervisor or Airman (civilian or military) will encourage their peers and friends during hard times. The key is to work together, with camaraderie, empathy and support our force can persevere through anything.
Pointing out the bright spots is a way to spread encouragement to those around us and is also linked to the next step which is “A”—act within our circle of influence.
This means being proactive, and according to author Stephen Covey, is one of seven habits of highly effective people. Too many times people try to focus on things they can’t do anything about. Trying to solve world hunger is out of our control, but participating in the Feed the Homeless project in our community is in our control. Our Nation’s debt problem is definitely out of our control, but, as individuals, we can impact our circle of influence by looking for efficiencies within our work center, by conducting risk analysis on the things we can or cannot support, and by keeping “eyes-on” the people around us to notice any behavior changes and step in if you’re concerned. Looming budgetary actions could have consequences for our people, and it’s important for them to be supported by their fellow service members.
Lastly, we can “L”—lean forward and keep moving, knowing that tough times won’t last forever.
We can choose to remain frozen in the face of challenges or see each challenge as an opportunity to overcome. We do not know what changes the future will bring. We know certain benefits and programs are under scrutiny for long-term sustainment. The recent suspension of 100 percent tuition assistance is a good example. Lean forward by working to apply for the numerous benefits that are out there to help you complete your education. Lean forward by ensuring you’re creating and living by a budget that will support your future goals. Lean forward by being the best Airman you can be.
I am convinced our nation’s leaders have confidence in us as Airmen. They know we are the best in the world that we step up to meet any challenge, that we overcome any obstacle and that we defeat the enemy. Our nation knows we can continue to do so as long as we are given adequate resources. Furthermore, I am confident in you all as Airmen. Without fail you, the men and women of Little Rock AFB, deliver in the daily execution of one of the most important missions our country has. Last week, Colonel Robinson, 19th Airlift Wing commander, expressed his commitment as your commander and fellow Airman, to carrying out our mission while dealing with the chaos and inefficiency of budgetary uncertainty. Be assured, your leadership has your back and we will keep it R.E.A.L. I know we will get through these challenging times together ahead and come out stronger.
Thursday, March 21, 2013
top story>>Sequestration impacts on Little Rock AFB
By 1st Lt. Mallory Glass
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Little Rock Air Force Base officials are currently assessing how the Fiscal Year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act, sequestration actions and the findings of the Intra-Theater Airlift Working Group, released Wednesday, will influence operations, readiness and personnel.
“The 19th Airlift Wing, along with our partners in the 314th Airlift Wing, 189th Airlift Wing and 22nd Air Force Detachment 1, are engaged with higher headquarters to ensure we are managing and articulating the capacity risks we are taking in a fiscally constrained environment,” said Col. Brian Robinson, 19th Airlift Wing commander. “Furthermore, we want to make sure that we are effectively and efficiently organizing, training and equipping our Airmen to ensure that they can respond to future global contingency operations.
Near term cost-saving actions
Due to sequestration the base has taken the following actions: curtailing non-readiness or mission essential flying and travel, curtailing or stopping minor purchases such as furniture and information technology refresh, deferring non-emergency facility sustainment, restoration and modernization, implementing a civilian hiring freeze for all non-mission critical positions and releasing non-mission critical temporary and term employees (at the end of their term for term employees). Little Rock AFB will have to cut $2 million out of its base operations budget and in addition the base has been tasked to cut $1.8 million in fiscal year 2013 spending. These cuts include decreases in aircrew temporary duty travel, which corresponds with the 19th Airlift Wing’s 35 percent cut in flying hours, and baseline operations and maintenance funds. The base has been slowing down spending since January to ensure this goal is met.
Civilian furloughs
Sequestration has also prompted unpaid civilian furloughs across the federal government. The 650-plus civilian workforce here is scheduled to be furloughed two days per pay period starting in late April. A furlough is placing an employee in a temporary non-duty, non-pay status due to lack of budget funds. Both the Air Force and leadership here are deeply concerned about the negative effects furloughs will have on the morale and effectiveness of the valued civilian workforce. Furthermore, furloughs will increase workloads for the active duty service members and decrease services capabilities.
Defense Department Strategic Guidance required all the military services to determine how to most effectively and efficiently posture forces for the future security environment. Both sequestration and the Budget Control Act means doing so with a drastically reduced budget.
Little Rock aircraft movement
In response to those challenges, the Air Force, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard leadership collaborated to develop one Total Force Proposal. In this proposal, authorized in the fiscal year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act, Air Force leadership of the 19th AW’s legacy C-130H squadrons was proposed for reduction in fiscal year 2014. At the same time, the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard are scheduled to gain C-130 units, resulting in only a net reduction of 20 C-130s at Little Rock in fiscal year 2014.
Total force mindset
“We are looking at this from a total force perspective” said Robinson. “The Team Little Rock tactical airlift mission is integrated and innovative. We approach installation excellence through a synergistic concept of civilian and active duty, guard and reserve, community and base; this enables Little Rock AFB to remain the nation’s center for ‘cradle-to-grave’ C-130 warfighting capability.”
However, it is also worth noting that the Air Force Total Force Proposal, which was incorporated in the fiscal year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act, included a re-allocation of future deliveries of C-130Js to the 19th and 314th AWs in the fiscal year 2018 timeframe.
Retaining additional airlift capacity
The Air Force announced Wednesday it will retain additional airlift aircraft through fiscal year 2014 in response to a congressional mandate to retain an inventory of 358 intra-theater airlift aircraft. Five of the 25 aircraft retained in fiscal year 2014 will be assigned to Little Rock AFB total force units. The aircraft will facilitate the Air National Guard ANG unit’s transition to meet the required aircrew production goals and provide further resources to 22nd AF Det. 1.
“The Arkansas Air National Guard has been working hand-in-hand with the active duty at Little Rock AFB since 1986,” said Col. Harold S. Eggensperger, 189th Airlift Wing commander. “We look forward to continuing this strong partnership with the active duty wings here and expanding that partnership with the Det. 1 22nd Air Force Reserves.”
In addition to the aircraft allocated to units affected by the President’s 2013 Budget, the Air Force also added aircraft to enhance mission effectiveness. The following aircraft will also beback-up aircraft:
Two aircraft to 22nd Air Force Detachment 1, Little Rock AFB
One aircraft to 19th Airlift Wing, Little Rock AFB
Two aircraft to 189th Airlift Wing, Little Rock AFB
Long term impacts
As a result, the slated net effect of the National Defense Authorization Act at Little Rock over the long term (from fiscal years 2013 to 2018) is a reduction of 10 C-130 aircraft and 330 personnel billets.
“Specific fleet management decisions on individual aircraft movements remain to be determined; however, we will remain focused on readiness and supporting all the Airmen, their families and civilians of Team Little Rock,” said Robinson.
“The onset of sequestration has brought significant uncertainty into the lives of our military personnel, families, retirees, civilian workforce, contractors, and defense industry partners, and this uncertainty is expected to continue given the nation’s ongoing budget challenges. We will have to push through and deal with the uncertainty.”
19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
Little Rock Air Force Base officials are currently assessing how the Fiscal Year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act, sequestration actions and the findings of the Intra-Theater Airlift Working Group, released Wednesday, will influence operations, readiness and personnel.
“The 19th Airlift Wing, along with our partners in the 314th Airlift Wing, 189th Airlift Wing and 22nd Air Force Detachment 1, are engaged with higher headquarters to ensure we are managing and articulating the capacity risks we are taking in a fiscally constrained environment,” said Col. Brian Robinson, 19th Airlift Wing commander. “Furthermore, we want to make sure that we are effectively and efficiently organizing, training and equipping our Airmen to ensure that they can respond to future global contingency operations.
Near term cost-saving actions
Due to sequestration the base has taken the following actions: curtailing non-readiness or mission essential flying and travel, curtailing or stopping minor purchases such as furniture and information technology refresh, deferring non-emergency facility sustainment, restoration and modernization, implementing a civilian hiring freeze for all non-mission critical positions and releasing non-mission critical temporary and term employees (at the end of their term for term employees). Little Rock AFB will have to cut $2 million out of its base operations budget and in addition the base has been tasked to cut $1.8 million in fiscal year 2013 spending. These cuts include decreases in aircrew temporary duty travel, which corresponds with the 19th Airlift Wing’s 35 percent cut in flying hours, and baseline operations and maintenance funds. The base has been slowing down spending since January to ensure this goal is met.
Civilian furloughs
Sequestration has also prompted unpaid civilian furloughs across the federal government. The 650-plus civilian workforce here is scheduled to be furloughed two days per pay period starting in late April. A furlough is placing an employee in a temporary non-duty, non-pay status due to lack of budget funds. Both the Air Force and leadership here are deeply concerned about the negative effects furloughs will have on the morale and effectiveness of the valued civilian workforce. Furthermore, furloughs will increase workloads for the active duty service members and decrease services capabilities.
Defense Department Strategic Guidance required all the military services to determine how to most effectively and efficiently posture forces for the future security environment. Both sequestration and the Budget Control Act means doing so with a drastically reduced budget.
Little Rock aircraft movement
In response to those challenges, the Air Force, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard leadership collaborated to develop one Total Force Proposal. In this proposal, authorized in the fiscal year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act, Air Force leadership of the 19th AW’s legacy C-130H squadrons was proposed for reduction in fiscal year 2014. At the same time, the Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard are scheduled to gain C-130 units, resulting in only a net reduction of 20 C-130s at Little Rock in fiscal year 2014.
Total force mindset
“We are looking at this from a total force perspective” said Robinson. “The Team Little Rock tactical airlift mission is integrated and innovative. We approach installation excellence through a synergistic concept of civilian and active duty, guard and reserve, community and base; this enables Little Rock AFB to remain the nation’s center for ‘cradle-to-grave’ C-130 warfighting capability.”
However, it is also worth noting that the Air Force Total Force Proposal, which was incorporated in the fiscal year 2013 National Defense Authorization Act, included a re-allocation of future deliveries of C-130Js to the 19th and 314th AWs in the fiscal year 2018 timeframe.
Retaining additional airlift capacity
The Air Force announced Wednesday it will retain additional airlift aircraft through fiscal year 2014 in response to a congressional mandate to retain an inventory of 358 intra-theater airlift aircraft. Five of the 25 aircraft retained in fiscal year 2014 will be assigned to Little Rock AFB total force units. The aircraft will facilitate the Air National Guard ANG unit’s transition to meet the required aircrew production goals and provide further resources to 22nd AF Det. 1.
“The Arkansas Air National Guard has been working hand-in-hand with the active duty at Little Rock AFB since 1986,” said Col. Harold S. Eggensperger, 189th Airlift Wing commander. “We look forward to continuing this strong partnership with the active duty wings here and expanding that partnership with the Det. 1 22nd Air Force Reserves.”
In addition to the aircraft allocated to units affected by the President’s 2013 Budget, the Air Force also added aircraft to enhance mission effectiveness. The following aircraft will also beback-up aircraft:
Two aircraft to 22nd Air Force Detachment 1, Little Rock AFB
One aircraft to 19th Airlift Wing, Little Rock AFB
Two aircraft to 189th Airlift Wing, Little Rock AFB
Long term impacts
As a result, the slated net effect of the National Defense Authorization Act at Little Rock over the long term (from fiscal years 2013 to 2018) is a reduction of 10 C-130 aircraft and 330 personnel billets.
“Specific fleet management decisions on individual aircraft movements remain to be determined; however, we will remain focused on readiness and supporting all the Airmen, their families and civilians of Team Little Rock,” said Robinson.
“The onset of sequestration has brought significant uncertainty into the lives of our military personnel, families, retirees, civilian workforce, contractors, and defense industry partners, and this uncertainty is expected to continue given the nation’s ongoing budget challenges. We will have to push through and deal with the uncertainty.”
TOP STORY>>Running for the fallen
Story and photos by Airman 1st Class Cliffton Dolezal of 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs
“Amazing grace, how sweet the sound,” rang from procession vehicles on a chilly and early morning, March 16 as the second annual Arkansas Run for the Fallen commenced. Families gathered on the sides of streets with signs and American flags to pay their respects as droning bagpipes passed by. The sound of their song stirred bittersweet emotions that only the families of the fallen heroes know.
“The sacrifices that their brave sons and daughters made will never be forgotten so long as blood courses through my veins,” said Senior Master Sgt. Bubba Beason, 19th Logistic Readiness Squadron First sergeant and creator of the run. “I told the volunteers for this year, (which included bikers, runners, state police, as well as military personnel and civilians), to remember who and what they were running for. I said their pain from running six miles is nothing compared to the pain these families have to endure for the rest of their lives. You are running because these fallen service members no longer can.”
The two-day event began in Ozark, Ark., after a small ceremony and the singing of the national anthem. This year, runners were grouped in four-person teams. One runner carried the American flag, the second, the Arkansas state flag, the third, the Remember the Fallen flag, and the fourth a smaller American flag attached with the biography of the fallen service member.
Every mile, for 131 miles, a member of the running group read the biography, rendered a salute and placed the smaller American flag in the ground at the location of that fallen service member’s designated memorial site. Once the final runners reached the state Capitol, the ending ceremony included a guest speaker, thankful remarks from Beason, the reading of a letter from a mother to a fallen son, the reading of the names of the fallen and a 21-gun salute.
This run gives family members of the fallen a method to heal and a way to celebrate tragic loss. Many times Beason said he has received emails from gold-star mothers expressing how much the run means to their family. Beason explained that a gold-star mother is the mother of a fallen service member, whereas a blue-star mother is the mother of a service member who’s still alive.
“When you get to see a gold-star family for the first time and you put a flag in the ground and see the family break down in tears, you realize while you’re doing something so simple by running a mile and putting a flag down, it’s so much more for the families because in their hearts and their minds they know their loved one is not forgotten,” said Beason.
Beason said he wants the run to continue to grow.
“Two weeks after these people die, the only people who remember are their family, which is an injustice,” he said. “I’ve got passion for this. To me, this is a self-reward to make sure that the families realize that we’re still trying to remember them for what they did. I would hope that there would be someone out there to keep my memory alive.”
As a gold-star mother read her letter aloud to the crowd, she gave everyone there one final thought to take with them. She said, “I hope what I have just done is put a picture in your mind of a solider from Arkansas, one of our boys, because that’s who we honored yesterday and today in those runs. Those are the people that have fought for our country and have fought for our nation and I am blessed to be the mother of one.”
For more information on this story, watch the news video on littlerock.af.mil and the Little Rock AFB Facebook page.
“Amazing grace, how sweet the sound,” rang from procession vehicles on a chilly and early morning, March 16 as the second annual Arkansas Run for the Fallen commenced. Families gathered on the sides of streets with signs and American flags to pay their respects as droning bagpipes passed by. The sound of their song stirred bittersweet emotions that only the families of the fallen heroes know.
“The sacrifices that their brave sons and daughters made will never be forgotten so long as blood courses through my veins,” said Senior Master Sgt. Bubba Beason, 19th Logistic Readiness Squadron First sergeant and creator of the run. “I told the volunteers for this year, (which included bikers, runners, state police, as well as military personnel and civilians), to remember who and what they were running for. I said their pain from running six miles is nothing compared to the pain these families have to endure for the rest of their lives. You are running because these fallen service members no longer can.”
The two-day event began in Ozark, Ark., after a small ceremony and the singing of the national anthem. This year, runners were grouped in four-person teams. One runner carried the American flag, the second, the Arkansas state flag, the third, the Remember the Fallen flag, and the fourth a smaller American flag attached with the biography of the fallen service member.
Every mile, for 131 miles, a member of the running group read the biography, rendered a salute and placed the smaller American flag in the ground at the location of that fallen service member’s designated memorial site. Once the final runners reached the state Capitol, the ending ceremony included a guest speaker, thankful remarks from Beason, the reading of a letter from a mother to a fallen son, the reading of the names of the fallen and a 21-gun salute.
This run gives family members of the fallen a method to heal and a way to celebrate tragic loss. Many times Beason said he has received emails from gold-star mothers expressing how much the run means to their family. Beason explained that a gold-star mother is the mother of a fallen service member, whereas a blue-star mother is the mother of a service member who’s still alive.
“When you get to see a gold-star family for the first time and you put a flag in the ground and see the family break down in tears, you realize while you’re doing something so simple by running a mile and putting a flag down, it’s so much more for the families because in their hearts and their minds they know their loved one is not forgotten,” said Beason.
Beason said he wants the run to continue to grow.
“Two weeks after these people die, the only people who remember are their family, which is an injustice,” he said. “I’ve got passion for this. To me, this is a self-reward to make sure that the families realize that we’re still trying to remember them for what they did. I would hope that there would be someone out there to keep my memory alive.”
As a gold-star mother read her letter aloud to the crowd, she gave everyone there one final thought to take with them. She said, “I hope what I have just done is put a picture in your mind of a solider from Arkansas, one of our boys, because that’s who we honored yesterday and today in those runs. Those are the people that have fought for our country and have fought for our nation and I am blessed to be the mother of one.”
For more information on this story, watch the news video on littlerock.af.mil and the Little Rock AFB Facebook page.
Airman with the right stuff wins award
Staff Sgt. Juan Roman, a 19th Contracting Squadron contracting specialist, led a seven member team to a $10 million end of fiscal year, with 70 percent of his team having less than two years experience. The team went on to win the 19th Mission Support Group Small Team of the 3rd Quarter, with Roman winning the 19th MSG noncommissioned officer in charge of the 3rd quarter, as well due to his leadership.
As a lead contract administrator, he was key to the squadron’s 5th largest output in history, more than $50 million, an increase of 10 percent over 2011.
Roman displayed his expertise in taking care of his customers, by rapidly procuring a first class, more than $200 thousand portable air conditioning system in 10 days versus the four-week average, enhancing the 19th Civil Engineering’s environmental control during the hot summer months. In addition, he issued six other HVAC system contracts valued at more than $200 thousand for various squadrons, replacing and upgrading air conditioning needs with energy efficient models, positioning Little Rock AFB to reduce base-wide energy consumption by 3 percent per year and potentially realizing a $50 thousand first year cost savings.
Further, he teamed with Security Forces during a more than $80 thousand furniture buy; his solution driven attitude led to the purchase of 14 new workstations and increased work space by 15 percent, enabling a smooth squadron building transition and increased security readiness.
Lastly, during the 19th Medical Group Staff Assistance visit, his Self-Aid Buddy Care program was rated as “Excellent”, and he volunteered time at his local church, feeding 150 homeless weekly, and accumulated 32 hours during the Little Rock AFB July 4th celebration, Air Show and base blood drive.
Courtesy of the 19th Contracting Squadron
As a lead contract administrator, he was key to the squadron’s 5th largest output in history, more than $50 million, an increase of 10 percent over 2011.
Roman displayed his expertise in taking care of his customers, by rapidly procuring a first class, more than $200 thousand portable air conditioning system in 10 days versus the four-week average, enhancing the 19th Civil Engineering’s environmental control during the hot summer months. In addition, he issued six other HVAC system contracts valued at more than $200 thousand for various squadrons, replacing and upgrading air conditioning needs with energy efficient models, positioning Little Rock AFB to reduce base-wide energy consumption by 3 percent per year and potentially realizing a $50 thousand first year cost savings.
Further, he teamed with Security Forces during a more than $80 thousand furniture buy; his solution driven attitude led to the purchase of 14 new workstations and increased work space by 15 percent, enabling a smooth squadron building transition and increased security readiness.
Lastly, during the 19th Medical Group Staff Assistance visit, his Self-Aid Buddy Care program was rated as “Excellent”, and he volunteered time at his local church, feeding 150 homeless weekly, and accumulated 32 hours during the Little Rock AFB July 4th celebration, Air Show and base blood drive.
Courtesy of the 19th Contracting Squadron
Thursday, March 14, 2013
BRIEFS>>4-5-2013
JOB FAIR AT EDUCATION CENTER WILL BE HELD ON APRIL 12
The Airman and Family Readiness Center is hosting a job fair at the Education Center (Building 1490) on April 12 from 9 a.m. – noon. This capstone event will feature 50 employers and agencies from the local community and is open to all military personnel, dependents and veterans.
EXPECT TRAFFIC DELAYS ON APRIL 27
There will be a BV Memorial 5K on April 27. There is the potential for traffic delays that morning from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Expect traffic delays at the Jacksonville Little Rock AFB University Center and on Vandenberg Blvd, Marshall Road, and McArthur Drive, these roads will be down to one lane.
For details, visit www.bvmemorial.com.
AIR FORCE BASE TO PERFORM APRIL 13
The Freedom Winds Air Force Band of Mid-America will be celebrating Arkansas music (William Grant Still) and patriotic music at the Central Arkansas Library System library branch (Esther DeWitt Nixon Library in Jacksonville), from 2 - 3:30 p.m. April 13. This event will be free and open to the public. For more information, contact Public Affairs at 501-987-3601.
RETIREMENT CEREMONIES PLANNED
There will be a retirement ceremony for Master Sgt. Richard L. Worrell on April 12 in the Grad Room of Bldg. 1222 at 2 p.m. There will be a retirement ceremony for Master Sgt. Roger Walker on April 19 at Bldg. 450 in the E-ring at 10 a.m.
KUDOS WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY
KUDOS: Kids Understanding Deployment Operations will be hosted by the Airman and Family Readiness Center April 6 from 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. in Hangar 233. KUDOS enables children of military families to understand what parents go through during the deployment process.
BEST OF THE ROCK 2013 UNDER WAY
It is that time of year again to show your appreciation by nominating your favorites for the 2013 Best of the Rock at Little Rock Air Force Base! You have the opportunity to provide feedback and let us know who goes above and beyond to keep you happy. You have a chance to win a $75 gift certificate in our random drawing by providing your contact information. We want to reward all of the activities on base that are doing a great job. Take this survey at bestoftherock.questionpro.com. The survey ends 31 March 2013.
The Airman and Family Readiness Center is hosting a job fair at the Education Center (Building 1490) on April 12 from 9 a.m. – noon. This capstone event will feature 50 employers and agencies from the local community and is open to all military personnel, dependents and veterans.
EXPECT TRAFFIC DELAYS ON APRIL 27
There will be a BV Memorial 5K on April 27. There is the potential for traffic delays that morning from 8 to 9:30 a.m. Expect traffic delays at the Jacksonville Little Rock AFB University Center and on Vandenberg Blvd, Marshall Road, and McArthur Drive, these roads will be down to one lane.
For details, visit www.bvmemorial.com.
AIR FORCE BASE TO PERFORM APRIL 13
The Freedom Winds Air Force Band of Mid-America will be celebrating Arkansas music (William Grant Still) and patriotic music at the Central Arkansas Library System library branch (Esther DeWitt Nixon Library in Jacksonville), from 2 - 3:30 p.m. April 13. This event will be free and open to the public. For more information, contact Public Affairs at 501-987-3601.
RETIREMENT CEREMONIES PLANNED
There will be a retirement ceremony for Master Sgt. Richard L. Worrell on April 12 in the Grad Room of Bldg. 1222 at 2 p.m. There will be a retirement ceremony for Master Sgt. Roger Walker on April 19 at Bldg. 450 in the E-ring at 10 a.m.
KUDOS WILL BE HELD ON SATURDAY
KUDOS: Kids Understanding Deployment Operations will be hosted by the Airman and Family Readiness Center April 6 from 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. in Hangar 233. KUDOS enables children of military families to understand what parents go through during the deployment process.
BEST OF THE ROCK 2013 UNDER WAY
It is that time of year again to show your appreciation by nominating your favorites for the 2013 Best of the Rock at Little Rock Air Force Base! You have the opportunity to provide feedback and let us know who goes above and beyond to keep you happy. You have a chance to win a $75 gift certificate in our random drawing by providing your contact information. We want to reward all of the activities on base that are doing a great job. Take this survey at bestoftherock.questionpro.com. The survey ends 31 March 2013.
COMMENTARY >>Sequestration’s uncertainty clouds LRAFB
By Col. Brian Robinson
19th Airlift Wing commander
Our base, the Air Force and Department of Defense are currently experiencing the effects of sequestration. There is no doubt that the 9 percent budget cut across all DOD programs will affect our mission and you.
This week I want to talk to you about getting through times of uncertainty. In order to get through these uncertain fiscal times, we must foster a culture of bold leadership and innovative, informed risk taking. We need every Team Little Rock Airman – active-duty, Reserve, Guard, civilian – to look for smarter, more efficient and more effective ways to conduct our mission and do business. Leaders should empower Airmen to think creatively, find new solutions and make decisions and recommendations. The person closest to the challenge is often the one with the best solution.
Despite the current budget uncertainty, our vision and focus hasn’t changed. Team Little Rock provides “unrivaled tactical airlift, propelled by Airmen, fueled by innovation.” What is a real mission example of this? The 19th Operations Group realized that a five-day fly week was not efficient or as effective as it needed to be in meeting broader requirements and needed improvement. By dedicating one day a week to mentorship and ground and ancillary training, we have increased readiness, promoted a community of innovative risk-takers and have saved taxpayer dollars.
From an installation standpoint, the base has curtailed or stopped minor purchases. The base is also purchasing office supplies on need-only basis. Furthermore, facility sustainment, restoration and modernization for non-emergency facilities will be put on hold.
Following guidance from Air Force leadership on the uncertain budget environment ahead, Little Rock Air Force Base leadership is currently developing plans in order to execute budget measures in the most efficient and appropriate manner. As you know, the triggering of sequestration means our 650-plus civilian workforce will be furloughed one day per week starting in April. A Furlough is placing an employee in a temporary non-duty, non-pay status due to lack of budget funds. We are deeply concerned about the negative effects of furloughs on the morale and effectiveness of our valued civilian workforce.
Within fiscal 2013, the base has taken actions to address the budget austerity and continue good stewardship of taxpayer resources. The 19th Airlift Wing’s C-130 tactical airlift will continue to support contingency operations around the world, pending Overseas Contingency Operations funding and sequestration, which will have a drastic impact on our mission. The 314th and 189th Airlift Wings and 22nd AF Det 1 will continue to provide “cradle-to-grave” C-130 warfighting capabilities.
There will be times that we have to say “no” or recognize limitations and constraints when we do not have the resources to complete a task. To make these choices, we must collect the data and determine what the costs will be. We must be able to make prudent choices to ensure we are able to employ the greatest potential of tactical airlift.
In the near term, both the 19th and 314th Operations Groups will be conducting less off-station training, to include air show support and fly-overs, to save travel costs. This decrease in off-station flying will result in a greater use of air space in the local area and the potential for fewer flying hours for aircrew; but it will cause a need for additional C-130 simulator resources and an increase in aircraft noise, but these are the risks we must assume in this fiscal environment.
The onset of sequestration has brought significant uncertainty into the lives of our military personnel, families, retirees, civilian workforce, contractors, and defense industry partners, and this uncertainty is expected to continue given the nation’s ongoing budget challenges. We will have to push through and deal with the uncertainty.
As your commander and fellow Airman, I am committed to carrying out our mission while dealing with the chaos and inefficiency of sequestration that will seriously disrupt our ability to serve the nation. I’m confident that with great teamwork LRAFB will see our way through this tough time, take advantage of opportunities and ultimately emerge a better and smarter force.
19th Airlift Wing commander
Our base, the Air Force and Department of Defense are currently experiencing the effects of sequestration. There is no doubt that the 9 percent budget cut across all DOD programs will affect our mission and you.
This week I want to talk to you about getting through times of uncertainty. In order to get through these uncertain fiscal times, we must foster a culture of bold leadership and innovative, informed risk taking. We need every Team Little Rock Airman – active-duty, Reserve, Guard, civilian – to look for smarter, more efficient and more effective ways to conduct our mission and do business. Leaders should empower Airmen to think creatively, find new solutions and make decisions and recommendations. The person closest to the challenge is often the one with the best solution.
Despite the current budget uncertainty, our vision and focus hasn’t changed. Team Little Rock provides “unrivaled tactical airlift, propelled by Airmen, fueled by innovation.” What is a real mission example of this? The 19th Operations Group realized that a five-day fly week was not efficient or as effective as it needed to be in meeting broader requirements and needed improvement. By dedicating one day a week to mentorship and ground and ancillary training, we have increased readiness, promoted a community of innovative risk-takers and have saved taxpayer dollars.
From an installation standpoint, the base has curtailed or stopped minor purchases. The base is also purchasing office supplies on need-only basis. Furthermore, facility sustainment, restoration and modernization for non-emergency facilities will be put on hold.
Following guidance from Air Force leadership on the uncertain budget environment ahead, Little Rock Air Force Base leadership is currently developing plans in order to execute budget measures in the most efficient and appropriate manner. As you know, the triggering of sequestration means our 650-plus civilian workforce will be furloughed one day per week starting in April. A Furlough is placing an employee in a temporary non-duty, non-pay status due to lack of budget funds. We are deeply concerned about the negative effects of furloughs on the morale and effectiveness of our valued civilian workforce.
Within fiscal 2013, the base has taken actions to address the budget austerity and continue good stewardship of taxpayer resources. The 19th Airlift Wing’s C-130 tactical airlift will continue to support contingency operations around the world, pending Overseas Contingency Operations funding and sequestration, which will have a drastic impact on our mission. The 314th and 189th Airlift Wings and 22nd AF Det 1 will continue to provide “cradle-to-grave” C-130 warfighting capabilities.
There will be times that we have to say “no” or recognize limitations and constraints when we do not have the resources to complete a task. To make these choices, we must collect the data and determine what the costs will be. We must be able to make prudent choices to ensure we are able to employ the greatest potential of tactical airlift.
In the near term, both the 19th and 314th Operations Groups will be conducting less off-station training, to include air show support and fly-overs, to save travel costs. This decrease in off-station flying will result in a greater use of air space in the local area and the potential for fewer flying hours for aircrew; but it will cause a need for additional C-130 simulator resources and an increase in aircraft noise, but these are the risks we must assume in this fiscal environment.
The onset of sequestration has brought significant uncertainty into the lives of our military personnel, families, retirees, civilian workforce, contractors, and defense industry partners, and this uncertainty is expected to continue given the nation’s ongoing budget challenges. We will have to push through and deal with the uncertainty.
As your commander and fellow Airman, I am committed to carrying out our mission while dealing with the chaos and inefficiency of sequestration that will seriously disrupt our ability to serve the nation. I’m confident that with great teamwork LRAFB will see our way through this tough time, take advantage of opportunities and ultimately emerge a better and smarter force.
TOP STORY>>Air Force suspends military tuition assistance
By Staff Sgt. David Salanitri
Air Force Public Affairs Agency
In the wake of sequestration, the Air Force officially suspended military tuition assistance March 11.
Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley announced the Air Force has officially suspended military TA for the remainder of fiscal 2013.
The program will continue to be evaluated to determine the way ahead in fiscal 2014.
The Defense Department’s comptroller issued guidance to all of the services to “consider significant reductions in funding new tuition assistance applicants, effective immediately and for the duration of the current fiscal situation,” said Navy Cmdr. Leslie Hull-Ryde, a Pentagon spokeswoman. The Army and Marine Corps canceled their TA programs March 8.
Effective March 11, Airmen are not permitted to submit new requests for TA. Airmen currently enrolled in, or approved for future courses, are not affected and are allowed to complete those courses.
“The Air Force has reached a turning point after a decade of war and substantial growth in its operations and resources,» Donley said, adding that the Air Force has had to make difficult choices to preserve readiness, to include: deep cuts to flying hour programs, cancellation of Air Force training and education programs and civilian furloughs.
He continued, “This is an additional step the Air Force unfortunately had to take to operate within mandated budget limitations.”
“We know how education strengthens our force,” he said. “We encourage Airmen to continue their pursuit of higher education through the variety of programs that are available.”
Those include the Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty, (Chapter 30), Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606), Reserve Education Assistance Program (Chapter 1607), the Post 9/11 GI Bill, federal grants and federal financial aid. National Guard Airmen may also be eligible for their state›s individual TA benefits.
“Believe me, this was a tough decision because our Air Force truly values education,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Cody. “We’re still looking at the impacts for fiscal year 14 and will do our best to have TA reinstated, although we’ll likely need to review the eligibility requirements to ensure sustainability.”
Airmen should contact their local education centers with questions and to get updates.
Air Force Public Affairs Agency
In the wake of sequestration, the Air Force officially suspended military tuition assistance March 11.
Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley announced the Air Force has officially suspended military TA for the remainder of fiscal 2013.
The program will continue to be evaluated to determine the way ahead in fiscal 2014.
The Defense Department’s comptroller issued guidance to all of the services to “consider significant reductions in funding new tuition assistance applicants, effective immediately and for the duration of the current fiscal situation,” said Navy Cmdr. Leslie Hull-Ryde, a Pentagon spokeswoman. The Army and Marine Corps canceled their TA programs March 8.
Effective March 11, Airmen are not permitted to submit new requests for TA. Airmen currently enrolled in, or approved for future courses, are not affected and are allowed to complete those courses.
“The Air Force has reached a turning point after a decade of war and substantial growth in its operations and resources,» Donley said, adding that the Air Force has had to make difficult choices to preserve readiness, to include: deep cuts to flying hour programs, cancellation of Air Force training and education programs and civilian furloughs.
He continued, “This is an additional step the Air Force unfortunately had to take to operate within mandated budget limitations.”
“We know how education strengthens our force,” he said. “We encourage Airmen to continue their pursuit of higher education through the variety of programs that are available.”
Those include the Montgomery GI Bill-Active Duty, (Chapter 30), Montgomery GI Bill-Selected Reserve (Chapter 1606), Reserve Education Assistance Program (Chapter 1607), the Post 9/11 GI Bill, federal grants and federal financial aid. National Guard Airmen may also be eligible for their state›s individual TA benefits.
“Believe me, this was a tough decision because our Air Force truly values education,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James Cody. “We’re still looking at the impacts for fiscal year 14 and will do our best to have TA reinstated, although we’ll likely need to review the eligibility requirements to ensure sustainability.”
Airmen should contact their local education centers with questions and to get updates.
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