By Maj Lisa R. Blackman
314th Medical Group mental health flight deputy commander
Let’s face it, life is stressful even on good days. The “normal” course of working 12 hours, working to be fit to fight, working to get the kids to do their homework and eat their vegetables, working to keep the house clean, working to keep colleagues from strangling each other … it’s a lot of work!
But what happens when life hands us something significantly more stressful? Unfortunately, life is full of events that go above and beyond our normal levels of stress. For example: natural disasters, combat, terrorist attacks, suicide or sudden death of a coworker, mass-casualty accidents, aircraft crashes and more. These potentially traumatic events can cause extreme stress reactions even in the most “normal” people.
What can you do if a potentially traumatic event happens to you, your unit, or your community? One option available to you is to contact the 314th Airlift Wing Traumatic Stress Response Team.
The primary mission of the TSR team is to prevent acute stress reactions before they occur. One way to accomplish this mission is to educate those likely to experience potentially traumatic stress (e.g. security forces, fire department, medics, and mortuary affairs) on skills to maintain resiliency and healthy coping. Another way to accomplish this mission is to provide education and resources to the community in order to facilitate healing after a traumatic event.
The team is made up of individuals who work in the mental health clinic, the chapel, the Airman and family readiness center, and other volunteers from across the base.
The TSR team may respond to anyone affiliated with the Little Rock AFB community, to include active duty, family members, contractors, DoD employees, and retirees.
The team can provide group or individual education on psychological self-aid and buddy care. It can also provide screening and referrals for those who may require additional mental health services.
One of the most common roles of the team is to consult with commanders and first sergeants and give advice on how certain critical incidents can be addressed with their unit.
TSR sessions are not considered medical visits. Any TSR team intervention is considered an education service and is not documented in any medical record. In addition, people who have been exposed to a potentially traumatic event may request up to four individual meetings with a TSR team member to discuss the issue in private. If, after the four sessions, it appears the individual needs additional mental health services, a referral can easily be made.
To contact TSR team member during duty hours, call 987-7338. If you require assistance after duty hours, call the Command Post at 987-3200 and ask to speak to the on-call mental health provider.
Thursday, April 17, 2008
COMMENTARY >> Let the games begin
By Lt. Col. Nate Allerheiligen
314th Airlift Wing director of readiness
When the Olympics begin this summer and the big torch is lit, it will be announced in the stadium “Let the games begin.” Some events will already be underway, but the preponderance of the competition will start with that announcement.
It is the same with our inspections. We have received many preliminary messages; the 45th Airlift Squadron at Keesler AFB has already competed, but now is the start of our primary push to the ORI. The deployment tasking for 314th Airlift Wing is in hand, the sourcing is underway and the team is being picked for our field exercise.
How is your preparation coming along? This is really going to be a hard sprint through to the finish. Everyone has been working long and hard hours up to this point, but that has all been the training to get us ready. Now is our time to compete.
No more excuses, no more procrastination. We are playing with full pads on and running at 100 percent. If your preparation was done well, you should be ready to go. If you have been putting things off to this point, now is the time to get those “I’s” dotted and “T’s” crossed to ensure everything is in order. Clean up your binders, prepare presentations for the IG and close up open discrepancies.
There is less than 30 days to our inspections. Let’s show those inspectors the professionalism, excellence, and combat prowess of Team Little Rock. Let’s show them that we’re the best in the world at … Combat Airlift!
314th Airlift Wing director of readiness
When the Olympics begin this summer and the big torch is lit, it will be announced in the stadium “Let the games begin.” Some events will already be underway, but the preponderance of the competition will start with that announcement.
It is the same with our inspections. We have received many preliminary messages; the 45th Airlift Squadron at Keesler AFB has already competed, but now is the start of our primary push to the ORI. The deployment tasking for 314th Airlift Wing is in hand, the sourcing is underway and the team is being picked for our field exercise.
How is your preparation coming along? This is really going to be a hard sprint through to the finish. Everyone has been working long and hard hours up to this point, but that has all been the training to get us ready. Now is our time to compete.
No more excuses, no more procrastination. We are playing with full pads on and running at 100 percent. If your preparation was done well, you should be ready to go. If you have been putting things off to this point, now is the time to get those “I’s” dotted and “T’s” crossed to ensure everything is in order. Clean up your binders, prepare presentations for the IG and close up open discrepancies.
There is less than 30 days to our inspections. Let’s show those inspectors the professionalism, excellence, and combat prowess of Team Little Rock. Let’s show them that we’re the best in the world at … Combat Airlift!
VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Thank you to our volunteers
By Chief Master Sgt. Brooke McLean
314th Airlift Wing command chief
Thanks to the many volunteers who make living at Little Rock AFB better for all of us. Those who give freely of their time and energy add an immense amount of value to our lives and most generally go completely unnoticed and, almost always, under-recognized. They don’t do it for the money — they do it for us.
Who are they? They are professional military council leaders like Master Sgt. Karen Graves, Senior Airman Tashina Ligus, Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Inskeep and Tech. Sgt. Nesha Willis, who help guide, focus, and shape our enlisted force. Every morning, I say hello to John Heffernan as he stands guard over the Arnold Elementary crosswalk — he asks for nothing in return. And the Little Rock Spouses Club is a powerhouse organization of volunteers who strive to improve our community and bring great benefit to our lives. In 2007 they donated approximately $45,000 in resources back into Little Rock AFB and the surrounding communities. Also, if you’ve visited the 314th Medical Group recently, you have more than likely been assisted by a volunteer. I’m not sure how our pharmacy would operate without their contributions!
Most of us cannot begin to repay the debt we owe … most of us wouldn’t know the balance due or even where to start looking. That’s the beauty of our volunteer force here. We don’t need to tally the bottom line; we just need to be courteous and say thank you.
Chances are you know someone who gives their time and expects nothing in return except a small nod of thanks or a warm smile. Thank you, volunteers!
314th Airlift Wing command chief
Thanks to the many volunteers who make living at Little Rock AFB better for all of us. Those who give freely of their time and energy add an immense amount of value to our lives and most generally go completely unnoticed and, almost always, under-recognized. They don’t do it for the money — they do it for us.
Who are they? They are professional military council leaders like Master Sgt. Karen Graves, Senior Airman Tashina Ligus, Chief Master Sgt. Kevin Inskeep and Tech. Sgt. Nesha Willis, who help guide, focus, and shape our enlisted force. Every morning, I say hello to John Heffernan as he stands guard over the Arnold Elementary crosswalk — he asks for nothing in return. And the Little Rock Spouses Club is a powerhouse organization of volunteers who strive to improve our community and bring great benefit to our lives. In 2007 they donated approximately $45,000 in resources back into Little Rock AFB and the surrounding communities. Also, if you’ve visited the 314th Medical Group recently, you have more than likely been assisted by a volunteer. I’m not sure how our pharmacy would operate without their contributions!
Most of us cannot begin to repay the debt we owe … most of us wouldn’t know the balance due or even where to start looking. That’s the beauty of our volunteer force here. We don’t need to tally the bottom line; we just need to be courteous and say thank you.
Chances are you know someone who gives their time and expects nothing in return except a small nod of thanks or a warm smile. Thank you, volunteers!
VIEW FROM THE TOP>> On the road, over the pond
By Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz, Jr.
314th Airlift Wing commander
It’s the final countdown. Over the past several months, we’ve been preparing together for the ORI. We’ve come a long way thanks to your hard teamwork and efforts!
This past week, a Site Activation Task Force team visited Team Little Rock reviewing the feasibility of switching ownership of the base from Air Education and Training Command to Air Mobility Command in the foreseeable future. While there is nothing final yet, we need to prepare for change – just like we are preparing for the operational readiness inspection.
The base transfer will likely be fairly transparent and a “patch change” to most Team Little Rock members. It took months to ensure operations flowed smoothly for the upcoming inspection. So, too, will it take time and preparation for the possible transfer of major command reins. It will take the cooperation of many offices installation-wide to make this happen, but I know we can do it.
That being said, we always need to be prepared, not only for the ORI, but for our deployments. It’s part of our job, part of what we do as America’s Airmen. Our challenge when that deployment order comes down to you or your unit is narrowing the gap between our daily routines and deployed conditions.
Deployments are one of the greatest tasks our Airmen face. They must deal with these daily routines combined with the often austere, dangerous nature of a deployed location. Working and living within close proximity of mortar rounds and IEDs can be genuinely unnerving, however, our superior Airmen and Combat Airlifters – both here at home and “on the road, over the pond” – continue to fight and win the Global War on Terrorism with bravery and enthusiasm. Cling to that mentality heading into the ORI. Be ready to react to any challenge and show the inspectors what great programs we have, but also remember to take your time and do things safely. We can’t sacrifice safety — ever.
Speaking of superior Airmen, some of us may have heard the new Air Force slogan: “Above All.” It’s an innovative educational publicity initiative designed to inform our public about what the U.S. Air Force does and how we accomplish our mission as the most technologically savvy air power in the world today. We exist to dominate the air, space and cyber domains, protecting freedom and democracy for Americans, as well as those in countries around the world. We have more than 25,000 Airmen currently deployed from bases around the world in support of the Global War on Terror, many whom are part of our Team Little Rock family.
Our mission throws its’ own weight into the fight right here from “The Rock” – training and deploying the world’s best Combat Airlifters; keeping convoys and almost 8,500 troops monthly off the dangerous Iraqi roads; taking deployed soldiers, sailors, Airmen and Marines the much needed supplies needed via world-class C-130 airlifters flown by our highly trained crews … as well as taking folk to the fight and bringing them home to their families.
Last year the Air Force airlifted nearly one million passengers and 330 million pounds of cargo, most of it to and from Iraq. That’s approximately equivalent to moving all 361,000 residents of Pulaski County, with 300 pounds of luggage each, from Little Rock to Iraq, back to Little Rock, and then back to Iraq. Pretty amazing, isn’t it?
We truly play a colossal role in the fight against terror. “Above All” may be the new Air Force motto, but Team Little Rock exemplifies it and leads the way! Your contributions from right here in “The Natural State,” the great state of Arkansas, make truly significant positive impacts on the lives and quality of life of American citizens and many others around the world.
Remember, you are a vital part of something much larger and meaningful to hundreds of thousands across the world. Combat Airlift!
314th Airlift Wing commander
It’s the final countdown. Over the past several months, we’ve been preparing together for the ORI. We’ve come a long way thanks to your hard teamwork and efforts!
This past week, a Site Activation Task Force team visited Team Little Rock reviewing the feasibility of switching ownership of the base from Air Education and Training Command to Air Mobility Command in the foreseeable future. While there is nothing final yet, we need to prepare for change – just like we are preparing for the operational readiness inspection.
The base transfer will likely be fairly transparent and a “patch change” to most Team Little Rock members. It took months to ensure operations flowed smoothly for the upcoming inspection. So, too, will it take time and preparation for the possible transfer of major command reins. It will take the cooperation of many offices installation-wide to make this happen, but I know we can do it.
That being said, we always need to be prepared, not only for the ORI, but for our deployments. It’s part of our job, part of what we do as America’s Airmen. Our challenge when that deployment order comes down to you or your unit is narrowing the gap between our daily routines and deployed conditions.
Deployments are one of the greatest tasks our Airmen face. They must deal with these daily routines combined with the often austere, dangerous nature of a deployed location. Working and living within close proximity of mortar rounds and IEDs can be genuinely unnerving, however, our superior Airmen and Combat Airlifters – both here at home and “on the road, over the pond” – continue to fight and win the Global War on Terrorism with bravery and enthusiasm. Cling to that mentality heading into the ORI. Be ready to react to any challenge and show the inspectors what great programs we have, but also remember to take your time and do things safely. We can’t sacrifice safety — ever.
Speaking of superior Airmen, some of us may have heard the new Air Force slogan: “Above All.” It’s an innovative educational publicity initiative designed to inform our public about what the U.S. Air Force does and how we accomplish our mission as the most technologically savvy air power in the world today. We exist to dominate the air, space and cyber domains, protecting freedom and democracy for Americans, as well as those in countries around the world. We have more than 25,000 Airmen currently deployed from bases around the world in support of the Global War on Terror, many whom are part of our Team Little Rock family.
Our mission throws its’ own weight into the fight right here from “The Rock” – training and deploying the world’s best Combat Airlifters; keeping convoys and almost 8,500 troops monthly off the dangerous Iraqi roads; taking deployed soldiers, sailors, Airmen and Marines the much needed supplies needed via world-class C-130 airlifters flown by our highly trained crews … as well as taking folk to the fight and bringing them home to their families.
Last year the Air Force airlifted nearly one million passengers and 330 million pounds of cargo, most of it to and from Iraq. That’s approximately equivalent to moving all 361,000 residents of Pulaski County, with 300 pounds of luggage each, from Little Rock to Iraq, back to Little Rock, and then back to Iraq. Pretty amazing, isn’t it?
We truly play a colossal role in the fight against terror. “Above All” may be the new Air Force motto, but Team Little Rock exemplifies it and leads the way! Your contributions from right here in “The Natural State,” the great state of Arkansas, make truly significant positive impacts on the lives and quality of life of American citizens and many others around the world.
Remember, you are a vital part of something much larger and meaningful to hundreds of thousands across the world. Combat Airlift!
Thursday, April 10, 2008
EVENTS >> 6-13-08
Flag Day Prayer Observance
The chapel will display 1,400 flags in front of the Team Spirit monument in Heritage Park for Flag Day. Prayer observance will be held at noon tomorrow.
Retirements
Senior Master Sgt. Orlando Tapia, 463rd Mission Operation Squadron, Maintenance training flight superintendent, will retire at 3 p.m., Friday, June 20 at the conference center. The presiding officer will be Captain Wayne Holbeck, air battle manager, stationed at Robbins AFB, GA. Contact Master Sgt. Kenneth Riley at 987-7053 with any questions.
Women’s Mentoring Group meets
The Women’s Mentoring Group will meet at 11 a.m., Tuesday in the Hangar 1080 ballroom. The topic of discussion is: “Why is your Education Important?” Many men also have questions and concerns about supervising or working with women and this group can assist with those types of questions or issues as well. For more information, contact Chief Master Sgt. Bionca Lindsey at 987-7351.
New degree offered
Webster University now offers an environmental management master degree, with Military Discount via Education Center at Little Rock AFB or on-line. For more information, contact Webster University at 988-5331 or www.webster.edu, or visit in person the university office in Room 110 in the Education Center, Bldg. 840 Leadership Drive.
Volunteer opportunity
A volunteer opportunity is available at Crossroads Café Student/Airmen Center from 6 to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Volunteer training provided. Volunteers pick the night that best fits their schedule. Contact Lin Peeler, café contractor, at 786-9310.
Office closures
The Financial Services Office will be closed from noon to 4 p.m. today. For emergency assistance, call 425-7006.
Commissioning briefing
Commissioning Information Briefing will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, at the Education Center, Bldg. 840. Interested Air Force active duty enlisted members holding a 5-skill level or higher are urged to attend. For details or to sign-up, call 987-3417.
Job openings
Current Services job openings are as follows: Lodging Custodial Worker, NA-02, flexible hours. Skills center, tools and parts attendant, NA-04, flexible hours. Golf Course, starter marshall, NF-I, flexible hours. Data Automation, information technology Assistant, (IT) NF-III, flexible hours. All Federal NAF Employees are required by Public Law 104-134 to have salary payments made by electronic funds transfer/direct deposit.
Cutoff dates set
In preparation for fiscal year end, the 314th Contracting Squadron has established the following cutoff dates for submission of Air Force Form 9, Requests for Purchase. The cutoff date for annual recurring services and maintenance agreements to be renewed effective Oct. 1 is July 1. The cutoff date for requirements over $100,000 is July 15. The cutoff date for all other requirements is Aug. 1. Contracting customers should begin planning their year-end purchases. Requirement packages must be complete, with adequate purchase descriptions and statements of work and must include all necessary supporting documentation if applicable. Incomplete packages will be returned to the customer. For more information, contact Betty Rosewaren at 987-8123.
The chapel will display 1,400 flags in front of the Team Spirit monument in Heritage Park for Flag Day. Prayer observance will be held at noon tomorrow.
Retirements
Senior Master Sgt. Orlando Tapia, 463rd Mission Operation Squadron, Maintenance training flight superintendent, will retire at 3 p.m., Friday, June 20 at the conference center. The presiding officer will be Captain Wayne Holbeck, air battle manager, stationed at Robbins AFB, GA. Contact Master Sgt. Kenneth Riley at 987-7053 with any questions.
Women’s Mentoring Group meets
The Women’s Mentoring Group will meet at 11 a.m., Tuesday in the Hangar 1080 ballroom. The topic of discussion is: “Why is your Education Important?” Many men also have questions and concerns about supervising or working with women and this group can assist with those types of questions or issues as well. For more information, contact Chief Master Sgt. Bionca Lindsey at 987-7351.
New degree offered
Webster University now offers an environmental management master degree, with Military Discount via Education Center at Little Rock AFB or on-line. For more information, contact Webster University at 988-5331 or www.webster.edu, or visit in person the university office in Room 110 in the Education Center, Bldg. 840 Leadership Drive.
Volunteer opportunity
A volunteer opportunity is available at Crossroads Café Student/Airmen Center from 6 to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday.
Volunteer training provided. Volunteers pick the night that best fits their schedule. Contact Lin Peeler, café contractor, at 786-9310.
Office closures
The Financial Services Office will be closed from noon to 4 p.m. today. For emergency assistance, call 425-7006.
Commissioning briefing
Commissioning Information Briefing will be held at 1 p.m. Thursday, at the Education Center, Bldg. 840. Interested Air Force active duty enlisted members holding a 5-skill level or higher are urged to attend. For details or to sign-up, call 987-3417.
Job openings
Current Services job openings are as follows: Lodging Custodial Worker, NA-02, flexible hours. Skills center, tools and parts attendant, NA-04, flexible hours. Golf Course, starter marshall, NF-I, flexible hours. Data Automation, information technology Assistant, (IT) NF-III, flexible hours. All Federal NAF Employees are required by Public Law 104-134 to have salary payments made by electronic funds transfer/direct deposit.
Cutoff dates set
In preparation for fiscal year end, the 314th Contracting Squadron has established the following cutoff dates for submission of Air Force Form 9, Requests for Purchase. The cutoff date for annual recurring services and maintenance agreements to be renewed effective Oct. 1 is July 1. The cutoff date for requirements over $100,000 is July 15. The cutoff date for all other requirements is Aug. 1. Contracting customers should begin planning their year-end purchases. Requirement packages must be complete, with adequate purchase descriptions and statements of work and must include all necessary supporting documentation if applicable. Incomplete packages will be returned to the customer. For more information, contact Betty Rosewaren at 987-8123.
TOP STORY >> I can use a GMV for that, right?
By 1st Lt. Lauren T. Guibert
314th Logistics Readiness Squadron, vehicle operations officer
Requests for Government Motor Vehicle (GMV) transportation occur on a daily basis here in my section.
Most of the requests are for legitimate reasons which fall under the scope of support vehicle operations provided here at Little Rock including delivering parts from the supply warehouse to the flight line, signing out U-Drive-It (UDI) vehicles to people who need them for official purposes, and crew runs that move aircrew between their squadron and aircraft. Conversely, every once in a while, someone requests a government vehicle for something that is not permissible, official or legal. So what exactly are GMVs supposed to be used for?
The governing AFI for vehicle operations is AFI 24-301. Chapter 2 specifically mentions the overarching rule concerning official use of GMVs: “Restrict the use of all DoD motor vehicles, including those rented or leased, to official purposes only, that is, uses that would further the mission of the Air Force. Providing a government vehicle solely or even principally to enhance the comfort or convenience of the member(s) is not permitted.”
The second sentence above tends to disapprove many requests that we receive. A requestor will attempt to use a GMV simply for convenience, when, in almost all cases, a personally owned vehicle is the sensible and legal choice.
A great example of this is the attempt to use a GMV as a “carpool vehicle” in order to attend an off-base function. Simply because military people are involved does not mean a GMV is authorized.
So what exactly is an ‘official’ purpose? As mentioned earlier, there are several functions here on base that GMVs are used for that are official, such as transporting parts to the flight line, transporting aircrew to their airplanes, and the use of UDIs for up to 72 hours by organizations who do not have assigned vehicles in order to meet a short-term official requirement.
Other official functions include transporting military and civilian personnel officially taking part in public ceremonies, parades, and military field demonstrations. This does not include retirements, funerals, awards ceremonies, dedications, promotions, or personal social engagements.
There are many more examples that are included in the AFI, but what do you do when something comes up that isn’t mentioned?
The AFI provides four factors that help determine what an official use is when not specifically mentioned in the AFI. These factors are: Is the purpose of the trip official? Does the request have the potential to create a perception that will reflect unfavorably on the Air Force or cause public criticism? Will the request impact mission requirements? Is commercial or DoD scheduled transportation available?
It is important to note that the Air Force does not provide transportation support that competes with commercial services. If a requestor can answer “yes” to all four of these questions, then the request may be approved.
If you keep all of the factors mentioned above in mind the next time you make a transportation request, success should be assured. Government Motor Vehicle transportation requests can be made by submitting a Form 1 to vehicle operations via fax, e-mail or by calling 987-6087.
314th Logistics Readiness Squadron, vehicle operations officer
Requests for Government Motor Vehicle (GMV) transportation occur on a daily basis here in my section.
Most of the requests are for legitimate reasons which fall under the scope of support vehicle operations provided here at Little Rock including delivering parts from the supply warehouse to the flight line, signing out U-Drive-It (UDI) vehicles to people who need them for official purposes, and crew runs that move aircrew between their squadron and aircraft. Conversely, every once in a while, someone requests a government vehicle for something that is not permissible, official or legal. So what exactly are GMVs supposed to be used for?
The governing AFI for vehicle operations is AFI 24-301. Chapter 2 specifically mentions the overarching rule concerning official use of GMVs: “Restrict the use of all DoD motor vehicles, including those rented or leased, to official purposes only, that is, uses that would further the mission of the Air Force. Providing a government vehicle solely or even principally to enhance the comfort or convenience of the member(s) is not permitted.”
The second sentence above tends to disapprove many requests that we receive. A requestor will attempt to use a GMV simply for convenience, when, in almost all cases, a personally owned vehicle is the sensible and legal choice.
A great example of this is the attempt to use a GMV as a “carpool vehicle” in order to attend an off-base function. Simply because military people are involved does not mean a GMV is authorized.
So what exactly is an ‘official’ purpose? As mentioned earlier, there are several functions here on base that GMVs are used for that are official, such as transporting parts to the flight line, transporting aircrew to their airplanes, and the use of UDIs for up to 72 hours by organizations who do not have assigned vehicles in order to meet a short-term official requirement.
Other official functions include transporting military and civilian personnel officially taking part in public ceremonies, parades, and military field demonstrations. This does not include retirements, funerals, awards ceremonies, dedications, promotions, or personal social engagements.
There are many more examples that are included in the AFI, but what do you do when something comes up that isn’t mentioned?
The AFI provides four factors that help determine what an official use is when not specifically mentioned in the AFI. These factors are: Is the purpose of the trip official? Does the request have the potential to create a perception that will reflect unfavorably on the Air Force or cause public criticism? Will the request impact mission requirements? Is commercial or DoD scheduled transportation available?
It is important to note that the Air Force does not provide transportation support that competes with commercial services. If a requestor can answer “yes” to all four of these questions, then the request may be approved.
If you keep all of the factors mentioned above in mind the next time you make a transportation request, success should be assured. Government Motor Vehicle transportation requests can be made by submitting a Form 1 to vehicle operations via fax, e-mail or by calling 987-6087.
TOP STORY >> Top 10 ways to dazzle IG: No. 10 Pride
By Lt Col Nate Allerheiligen
314 Airlift Wing Director of Readiness
Visibly exude pride in yourself, your unit, your mission and your base: Looking good, feeling good, being a winner!
Maj. Gen. Mark Zamzow, TIG Brief Sept.-Oct. 2004
Team Little Rock, you’ve got something to be proud of.
Day-in, day-out, you execute our combat airlift mission with poise, demonstrating your prowess as the world’s leading combat airlift center of excellence.
The recent exercises, self-inspections, and SAVs all point to the same thing: Team Little Rock is ready to go. Now is the time to stretch your legs, take one last big breath, and get ready for the final stretch.
From this point on, everything counts. There are no more rehearsals, no more practices, and no more second chances. We are in the hot seat and ready for the IG team to arrive.
There isn’t anyone better. Team Little Rock is known world-wide as the best combat airlift base, bar none!
Take pride in your team.
Take pride in your accomplishments. Take pride in your uniform. Take pride in yourself. Let’s “Dazzle the IG” with how truly “Outstanding” we are!
314 Airlift Wing Director of Readiness
Visibly exude pride in yourself, your unit, your mission and your base: Looking good, feeling good, being a winner!
Maj. Gen. Mark Zamzow, TIG Brief Sept.-Oct. 2004
Team Little Rock, you’ve got something to be proud of.
Day-in, day-out, you execute our combat airlift mission with poise, demonstrating your prowess as the world’s leading combat airlift center of excellence.
The recent exercises, self-inspections, and SAVs all point to the same thing: Team Little Rock is ready to go. Now is the time to stretch your legs, take one last big breath, and get ready for the final stretch.
From this point on, everything counts. There are no more rehearsals, no more practices, and no more second chances. We are in the hot seat and ready for the IG team to arrive.
There isn’t anyone better. Team Little Rock is known world-wide as the best combat airlift base, bar none!
Take pride in your team.
Take pride in your accomplishments. Take pride in your uniform. Take pride in yourself. Let’s “Dazzle the IG” with how truly “Outstanding” we are!
VIEW FROM THE TOP>> ORI success – make it personal
By Chief Master Sgt. Brooke McLean
314th Airlift Wing command chief
Many have heard the joke which states the two greatest deceptions associated with an inspector general visit: the unit being inspected says “we are glad you are here” and inspection team says “we are here to help.” All kidding aside, our base is getting ready for a significant emotional event … nearly the entire month of April is consumed by our ORI.
The good news is we are ready. This isn’t a surprise inspection and this isn’t anything new. We execute the missions the IG will evaluate every day and we do them with pride and professionalism. Our team has worked hard, prepared well, trained with vigor and the IG is sure to be impressed. Now, it’s time to make the inspection personal.
ORI results are the results of countless dynamics but one common theme in any positive inspection is attention to detail. The devil is in the details but so is our success and that takes individual attention and focus. Unit leadership can set the standards and positive environment. Supervisors can explain goals and expectations. But, ultimately, mission execution is a personal accomplishment. Sometimes it’s as simple as understanding the job won’t get done if you don’t do it. If not you, then who?
Individuals taking responsibility for accomplishing tasks and taking pride of ownership in our mission is what makes Team Little Rock successful every day. In the near future, we’ll show the inspector general what it means to be a Combat Airlifter at the Rock.
314th Airlift Wing command chief
Many have heard the joke which states the two greatest deceptions associated with an inspector general visit: the unit being inspected says “we are glad you are here” and inspection team says “we are here to help.” All kidding aside, our base is getting ready for a significant emotional event … nearly the entire month of April is consumed by our ORI.
The good news is we are ready. This isn’t a surprise inspection and this isn’t anything new. We execute the missions the IG will evaluate every day and we do them with pride and professionalism. Our team has worked hard, prepared well, trained with vigor and the IG is sure to be impressed. Now, it’s time to make the inspection personal.
ORI results are the results of countless dynamics but one common theme in any positive inspection is attention to detail. The devil is in the details but so is our success and that takes individual attention and focus. Unit leadership can set the standards and positive environment. Supervisors can explain goals and expectations. But, ultimately, mission execution is a personal accomplishment. Sometimes it’s as simple as understanding the job won’t get done if you don’t do it. If not you, then who?
Individuals taking responsibility for accomplishing tasks and taking pride of ownership in our mission is what makes Team Little Rock successful every day. In the near future, we’ll show the inspector general what it means to be a Combat Airlifter at the Rock.
VIEW FROM THE TOP>> Up to the challenge and ready for anything
By Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz Jr.
314th Airlift Wing commander
Team Little Rock – Congratulations, and many thanks, for once again coming through our final scrimmage with flying colors. What a huge victory! With the operational readiness inspection just over a month away, a ROCKEX performance like this summarizes how well we’ve practiced for the main event. Continue to take care of business in both our professional and personal lives so we can impress the ORI inspectors and claim our prize: an “outstanding” rating!
As we turn the corner and start heading down the home stretch, the experience we’ve gained from this exercise, as well as those before it, will prove invaluable. Our local ORI-prep team and exercise evaluators, acting as both coaches and umpires, have helped you practice for your final match up the AMC and AETC inspection teams. Let’s show them what we’ve been practicing for every day, how well we’re trained in our warfighting and training mission, and how well-oiled you are in bringing world-class Combat Airlift to the fight.
The exercise scenarios played out were designed to replicate the timing, pace, and intensity we should expect to see during the actual ORI. We can never have too much practice when it comes to the important operations we train and maintain our personnel, aircraft and equipment for daily, to include: major accident response, anti-terrorism/force protection, hijacking, unauthorized strangers in our midst with malicious intent, CBRNE (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, high-yield explosives) response, mass casualty training, deployment lines, cargo loading, etc. Simultaneously, we seamlessly roll our combat-ready, fully-operational C-130 fleet out onto the flightline to get troops, equipment and planes to the fight … all critical elements of our everyday training and real-world missions. Each and every one of you makes this happen.
In these last few weeks, our challenge is to keep narrowing the gap between our daily routines and the stressful situations the inspectors will throw at us during the actual ORI. We are the “C-130 center of the universe.” Our primary mission is training, producing and sending to the fight world-class Combat Airlifters. Our daily routines include maintaining airplanes, flying missions, supporting deployments, deploying, caring for our families, and mentoring our Airmen to become future leaders of the best Air Force in the world.
During the actual ORI, unexpected problems or conditions may arise that challenge our training and the procedures we have practiced to perfection. How well we keep our heads in the game and overcome those challenges during the inspection will in many ways dictate the grade we receive. After the final weeks of practice, I’m confident our Combat Airlift Team made up of the 314th Airlift Wing, 189th Airlift Wing and 463rd Airlift Group will be recognized as “Outstanding” by the AMC and AETC inspectors.
Amidst all our hard work, remember we are in the middle of the Air Force Assistance Fund campaign. This is a great opportunity to do your part and contribute to a variety of worthy organizations. Last year, we raised over $125,654 for very beneficial causes. Thank you for your continued generous spirits; we encourage you to give what you can. Your contributions help other Airmen in need. I know we won’t disappoint, because let’s face it, we never do!
A final word: safety. We’ve had numerous DUI incidents within the last three months and three motorcycle fatalities since May 2007. We are, very sadly, getting too good at the response mechanisms required for these incidents and having to say goodbye too frequently to our lost team members. Last weekend, as many of you know, we lost yet another member of our valuable Air Force family from Team Little Rock to a motorcycle accident. Our hearts truly go out to his family and friends and those whose lives he touched. Remember: we’re busy both here at home and deployed.
Complacency, fatigue and poor risk management are our worst enemies. Be safe in whatever endeavors and activities you’re engaging in, and make smart decisions. The decisions you make every day create a domino effect for others. Watch out for each other; we can’t afford to lose even one member of our team. Keep up the overall great work!
Thank you, simply, for all you do. Wear your uniform with pride and know what you do makes a difference to millions around the world.
Combat Airlift!
314th Airlift Wing commander
Team Little Rock – Congratulations, and many thanks, for once again coming through our final scrimmage with flying colors. What a huge victory! With the operational readiness inspection just over a month away, a ROCKEX performance like this summarizes how well we’ve practiced for the main event. Continue to take care of business in both our professional and personal lives so we can impress the ORI inspectors and claim our prize: an “outstanding” rating!
As we turn the corner and start heading down the home stretch, the experience we’ve gained from this exercise, as well as those before it, will prove invaluable. Our local ORI-prep team and exercise evaluators, acting as both coaches and umpires, have helped you practice for your final match up the AMC and AETC inspection teams. Let’s show them what we’ve been practicing for every day, how well we’re trained in our warfighting and training mission, and how well-oiled you are in bringing world-class Combat Airlift to the fight.
The exercise scenarios played out were designed to replicate the timing, pace, and intensity we should expect to see during the actual ORI. We can never have too much practice when it comes to the important operations we train and maintain our personnel, aircraft and equipment for daily, to include: major accident response, anti-terrorism/force protection, hijacking, unauthorized strangers in our midst with malicious intent, CBRNE (chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear, high-yield explosives) response, mass casualty training, deployment lines, cargo loading, etc. Simultaneously, we seamlessly roll our combat-ready, fully-operational C-130 fleet out onto the flightline to get troops, equipment and planes to the fight … all critical elements of our everyday training and real-world missions. Each and every one of you makes this happen.
In these last few weeks, our challenge is to keep narrowing the gap between our daily routines and the stressful situations the inspectors will throw at us during the actual ORI. We are the “C-130 center of the universe.” Our primary mission is training, producing and sending to the fight world-class Combat Airlifters. Our daily routines include maintaining airplanes, flying missions, supporting deployments, deploying, caring for our families, and mentoring our Airmen to become future leaders of the best Air Force in the world.
During the actual ORI, unexpected problems or conditions may arise that challenge our training and the procedures we have practiced to perfection. How well we keep our heads in the game and overcome those challenges during the inspection will in many ways dictate the grade we receive. After the final weeks of practice, I’m confident our Combat Airlift Team made up of the 314th Airlift Wing, 189th Airlift Wing and 463rd Airlift Group will be recognized as “Outstanding” by the AMC and AETC inspectors.
Amidst all our hard work, remember we are in the middle of the Air Force Assistance Fund campaign. This is a great opportunity to do your part and contribute to a variety of worthy organizations. Last year, we raised over $125,654 for very beneficial causes. Thank you for your continued generous spirits; we encourage you to give what you can. Your contributions help other Airmen in need. I know we won’t disappoint, because let’s face it, we never do!
A final word: safety. We’ve had numerous DUI incidents within the last three months and three motorcycle fatalities since May 2007. We are, very sadly, getting too good at the response mechanisms required for these incidents and having to say goodbye too frequently to our lost team members. Last weekend, as many of you know, we lost yet another member of our valuable Air Force family from Team Little Rock to a motorcycle accident. Our hearts truly go out to his family and friends and those whose lives he touched. Remember: we’re busy both here at home and deployed.
Complacency, fatigue and poor risk management are our worst enemies. Be safe in whatever endeavors and activities you’re engaging in, and make smart decisions. The decisions you make every day create a domino effect for others. Watch out for each other; we can’t afford to lose even one member of our team. Keep up the overall great work!
Thank you, simply, for all you do. Wear your uniform with pride and know what you do makes a difference to millions around the world.
Combat Airlift!
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