CLASSIFIEDS >> 092515

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.

2015 Low Income Advocates Leadership & Community Development Conference - Training, Networking and leadership training for community based leaders. Sept. 28-29, 2015 | Doubletree Hotel Little Rock, Arkansas, 9-28 - Nonprofit Leadership Institute. 9-29 - Keynote presentation by Ron Anderson and break-out training sessions. To Register Email: rfreeman@cadc.com for more information, $99 Registration Fee. CADC and Entergy are offering scholarships (still avail.) for advocates who work with the low income.**

WANTED 4 MORE HOMES To advertise our Life Time , Warranty PREMIUM SIDING, WINDOWS OR METAL ROOF For our upcoming brochure. Save Hundreds. Payments $69/Mo. No money down EZ financing. Senior/Military Discounts. Call Now!! 866-668-8681.**

SERVICES

Dish Network – Get MORE for LESS! Starting $19.99/month (for 12 months.) PLUS Bundle & SAVE (Fast Internet for $15 more/month.) CALL Now 1-800-393-5829.**

HELP WANTED

Immediate Hire - $725 a week. Are you self-motivated? Local company has 10-15 openings for air quality testers. No experience necessary. No Layoffs. Call for an interview at (501) 605-1303.

PART-TIME POSITION - Ophthalmology/Optometry clinic is searching for just the right person to join our team in North Pulaski county. Must be energetic, detailed oriented and outgoing. Will train. You may email your resume to:  manager@jacksonvilleeyedocs.com or fax to 501-985-0715.

SubTeachUSA eoe. SUBSTITUTE TEACHERS NEEDED! Now Hiring Substitutes for Rockbridge Montessori School- Little Rock Apply online at www.subteachusa.com or call 1-800-641-0149.  Must pass FBI/DHS, Must be 21, must have HS Diploma or GED.**

SUPPORTIVE LIVING COMPANION - COMMUNITY WAIVER SERVICES) Part Time  positions: Weekends, afternoons, evenings. Responsibilities Include: teach activitiesof daily living skills to children or adults w/developmental disabilities, support them in achieving goals, and providing transportation. Ability to lift up to 50 lbs, personal transportation, auto ins. , a valid ARDL, and a HSD, GED or CNA. Exp.  working with adults or children with disabilities preferred. EOE. For info: 501-227-3632 or Apply online: www.eastersealsar.com/jobs.**

“Come join our Management Team at Little Caesars!”  Asst. Managers, Co-Managers and General Managers Central Arkansas locations:  Benton, Bryant, Pine Bluff, Searcy, Conway areas. On-going training & comprehensive benefits pkg. Two yrs. exp. in Restaurant Management preferred. Call 501-833-9444 or fax resume to 501-835-6112, or  email to: info@littlecaesarsofar.com for interview.**

TRUCK DRIVER TRAINEES NEEDED! Learn to drive for Stevens Transport! EARN $800 PER WEEK! No Experience Needed! We will get you trained! 1-888-778-0459.**

AUCTIONS

LARGE PUBLIC AUCTION PONDER’S AUCTION GALLERY, Sunday Sept. 27, Starting At 10 am , 1504 South Leslie St., Stuttgart AR 72160, Multiple Estates From The U.S.  and European Countries. Over 1,000 items! See photos: www.pondersauctions.com For more info. contact J.E. Ponder, Auctioneer at 1-870-673-6551 or cell 870-672-1731 • ALB#787.**

YARD SALES

MOVING SALE, 9/25 & 26, 8 am-5 pm, 431 Campground Rd., Beebe. Livestock & hay equipment, household items, refrigerator, toys, etc. (501) 882-3302.

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.

AUTOS/ACCESSORIES

2008 DODGE Durango SXT 2WD, 74,400 mi., tires w/12,000 mi., new brakes & shocks, tinted windows, rear air, 3rd row seat, garage kept, excellent condition, $8,000. (501) 993-0666.

1992 GEO Metro 4-Dr., auto, 73,500 miles, 2 new tires w/front end alignment, runs well, $1,200 obo. (501) 985-0165.

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

‘07 HARLEY Davidson Ultra Classic, FLHTCU, exc. cond., suede blue pearl/vivid black, 19k miles, foldable front pegs, cruise, radio/CD player (4 spkrs.), hard bags & luggage box w/rails, intercom jacks, 96 ci. (1,584cc), 6-spd., HD maintenance manual, extras, $11,500 obo. (501) 658-3216.

MISCELLANEOUS

PANTHER CREEK CARPORTS - FACTORY DIRECT - 10'x20'x7', $598. Delivered and Installed! Rated for 90 mph winds & 20 lb. snow loads. Offer expires Sept. 26th. Call 501-835-7222, O.D. Funk Manufacturing, Sherwood, AR. Since 1976.**

FURNITURE

KING BEDROOM suite, twin towers w/lighted bridge, dbl. dresser w/mirror, sofa table, entertainment center, no mattress or stand. (501) 851-1923 or (501) 960-3707.

HOUSES FOR RENT

AFFORDABLE MOBILE HOMES: Clean and move-in ready. Hillside Bayou has several 2 & 3 bedroom homes starting at $450/month. Enjoy a quiet, friendly neighborhood. MILITARY DISCOUNT! Call Mandy, (501) 835-3450.

HOUSES FOR SALE

FSBO. - 3 bedroom, 2 full baths. Priced to sell. Will pay closing costs. Nice, all brick home. Fenced backyard. 1850 sf., Stonehenge subdivision. 2402 Lanchashire Ln., Cabot, $154,000. (501) 554-1550.

MOBILE HOMES

MUST Move - 96 Clayton Singlewide, $12,000 call asap 501-653-3202.**

BRIEFS >> 092515

Drug take back Saturday

Drug take back day is Saturday and the 19th Security Forces Squadron will be at the base exchange for people to turn in used or expired medications for safe disposal. Law enforcement agencies state wide are participating in the event. For more turn-in sites, visit www.Artakeback.org.

Volunteers needed

Motivated volunteers are needed for the third annual Diversity Day slated for January. Planning meetings are set for 1 p.m. Tuesday and Thursday in Bldg. 430 Passenger Room 1. The event will encompass all 10 federal observances, including Women’s History Month, Hispanic Heritage Month, and Black History Month, and there are committees for each observance. For more information, email the event project officer, Capt. Tarah Mitchell, at tarah.mitchell.1@us.af.mil.

Scam alert

The Defense Health Agency, Office of Program Integrity has identified a scam that is targeting TRICARE beneficiaries. This scam asks beneficiaries to become TRICARE “Secret Shoppers.” Beneficiaries may receive a letter along with a fake check from Wisconsin Physician Services in the amount of $3,775, along with instructions on what to do with the check. These letters and checks are bogus, and individuals who participate in the “program” may become liable for payment to the bank. For more information, see “TRICARE Beneficiaries Being Targeted by Fraudulent Secret Shopper Offer” at http://www.health.mil/News/. Beneficiaries who receive these fraudulent letters are asked to report them to DHA Program Integrity at http://www.health.mil.   

TOP STORY >> POW/MIA: Run to Remember

By Senior Airman Harry Brexel

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs 

Team Little Rock honored National Prisoner of War/Missing in Action Recognition Day Sept. 17-18 with a 24-hour run to pay homage to those missing and to those who gave the ultimate sacrifice. 

Since 1986, the third Friday in September is observed as POW/MIA Recognition Day. This year, the date coincided with the Air Force’s 68th birthday.  

As the U.S. remains to be a country at war, the American Airmen continue to be among those at the front lines of combat.

Since World War I, approximately 83,400 U.S. service members are still unaccounted for, and more than 150,000 Americans have been held as prisoners of war. 

While recognizing the Air Force’s birthday and National POW/MIA Recognition Day, Col. Charles Brown, the 19th Airlift Wing and installation commander, spoke to hundreds of Little Rock Airmen.

“Think about those that wish they could be here with us; those who wish they had the comradery and friendship here today; who wish they were with their families and who would give anything to do what we’re doing this morning,” Brown said. 

The POW/MIA run on Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, consisted of nearly 400 runners, representing 27 squadrons from around the base. Airmen took shifts carrying the POW/MIA flag, keeping the flag in motion for the full 24 hours. 

The National League of Families’ POW/MIA flag symbolizes the United States’ resolve to never forget POWs or those who served their country in conflicts and are still missing. The father of a POW designed the flag after imagining what life was like for those behind barbed wire fences on foreign shores.

The flag began to fly around the Warfit track after retreat sounded Sept. 17. It continued to wave while in the hands of Airmen until retreat sounded again the next afternoon. 

“Being able to participate in this event gives me a sense of pride,” said Staff Sgt. Jacqueline Jauregui, a 19th Operations Support Squadron commander support staff personnelist. “This is my sixth year running in a POW/MIA run and each time it reminds me of what being in the Air Force is all about.” 

TOP STORY >> Dads 101 class offers sage advice

By Arlo Taylor

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

While a wealth of pregnancy books and classes focus on new mothers and a baby, relatively few classes are out there to nurture new dads. 

To bridge that gap, Family Advocacy here offers the Dads’ 101 class quarterly for expectant fathers or those whose child was recently born. The next class is Monday, Sept. 28 at the Family Advocacy office on the second floor of the 19th Medical Group clinic.

“The Dad’s 101 class teaches new dads how to be dads,” said Lisa Dicus, 19th Medical Operations Squadron Family Advocacy Officer. “The class is taught for dads by dads.  [It’s] an especially fun way for the dads to get together, ask the questions that they may not have had the ability to ask before and learn some helpful skills and tips from the other dads that have ‘been there, done that.’”

The expectant fathers learn the basics: pregnancy-related issues, diapering and dressing a baby, bathing and feeding a baby, preparing for deployments and coping with a crying baby and the effects of Shaken Baby syndrome. The new dads also get to walk a mile in their partners’ shoes while wearing an Empathy Belly pregnancy simulator and seeing what it’s really like having a growing baby bump.

Dicus said the experienced dads who volunteer to teach the class work to help the newbies feel at ease with the transition to fatherhood. 

“Fathers are central to the emotional well-being of their children; they are capable caretakers and disciplinarians,” she said. “Research shows that fathers are just as important as mothers in their respective roles as caregivers, protectors, financial supporters and most importantly, models for social and emotional behavior.”

“Sharing personal experiences and making the class relatable are what makes the class successful,” said Tech. Sgt. Justin Nightingale, one of the volunteer teachers.

“The thing I learned and pass on is that there really isn’t an exact science to being a father,” he said. “I liken it to being a supervisor; you apply the good things you’ve learned, try to avoid the bad and make it your own.”

The real-life stories shared – both failures and triumphs – aim to ready the new dads for the adventures fatherhood brings.  

“That is the essence of being a father; sometimes you will succeed and sometimes you will fail; it just depends on if you learn from those failures or not,” said Senior Airman Joshua Palffy, who has taught eight classes.

Nightingale, who has taught three classes and has three daughters ages 8, 6 and 3, said the most important thing the class teaches is the importance of being there for the mother and child.

“We stress the different things the mom is going to experience and how to adjust for the changes that will come with the new baby,” he said. “Fathers have a very important role. They’re their son’s first superhero and their daughter’s first love.” 

“The class is in many ways a “man-to-man” talk about being an involved dad,” said Palffy, who has a daughter and son. 

“I grew up with my father being in prison so I believe that a father’s involvement in the child’s life is very important,” Palffy said. “We try to answer as many questions the dads have to help relive any concerns they may have with pregnancy, childbirth and being a new dad. This class is very rewarding and being a father is something that I pride myself in.” 

The teachers also stress that patience is more than a virtue when it comes to parenting.

“We touch on a lot of subjects, but we try to nurture patience … patience and understanding,” Nightingale said. ”Men are natural fixers and want to fix things and in fatherhood, that’s not always the case. Sometimes you just have to be patient and you have to understand the situation for what it is.”

The class lays a ground work for new dads to build their own family legacy

“Dads 101 is a really good baseline [for learning]. It’s just a way to lay a foundation for the dads to build on and go into the situation with a little more confidence,” said Nightingale.

For more information or to sign up for Dads 101, call Family Advocacy at 501-987-7377.

TOP STORY >> Training exercises Defenders’ rapid reflexes

By Tammy L. Reed

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The Team Little Rock community was reminded June 15 that base security forces do more than check IDs at the gate. 

That day, they stopped an active shooter from making his way onto the base. 

Running toward the danger, 19th Security Forces Squadron Airmen used ingrained tactics and training to end a situation that could have escalated into a more tragic event.

Master Sgt. Stacy Goad, 19th SFS training non-commissioned officer in charge, reviewed the video of the incident and said he was very proud of the actions of the Airmen involved. 

“I could see when the training actually kicked in, I could tell,” Goad said. “There was the initial surprise moment, and then everything where it did kick in; it all clicked. They performed admirably.”

Security professionals prepare for these tense situations with an ongoing, annual requirement. Under the Home Station Training Objective, training instructions will be standardized throughout the Air Force.

Goad explained that Defenders have 216 hours of Home Station Training required every year. Forty-four of those hours are dedicated to local mission scenarios. The training 19th SFS conducts every three weeks covers 95 of those hours in two-week blocks and covers topics such as CPR, fingerprint and DNA collection, and disposition of offenders.

“For the troops, the HST training is beneficial if they PCS or deploy, as everybody is trained to the same standard,” Goad said. “So they know the person next to them has received the same training, and they aren’t wondering about them, they’ll know the training is there,” Goad said. 

Senior Airman Marsalis Brown, 19th SFS patrolman, was one of 13 airmen participating in a recent training session. He’s been through it a number of times, and each time has been an eye-opening experience for him as he brushed up on skills and techniques. 

“We trained on responding to domestic disturbances in tech school and as soon as I got here we also went over it,” Brown said. “Maybe a few short weeks after the training, I responded to my first domestic. … It kind of surprised me how they train you for it, then when you actually go out on one, it works. In the situation I was dealing with, it was pretty much me trying to de-escalate the situation and able to get the job done in a timely manner.”

Brown’s classmate, Senior Airman Aaron Rivers, 19th SFS armorer, enjoyed the combatives training, which hones hand-to-hand defensive maneuvers to use when a situation may escalate to physical intervention. 

“Personally, I would like to see more combatives taught in the classroom, as you can never have enough experience defending yourself, or defending someone else if the situation arises.”

The defenders aim to defuse situations with the least amount of force necessary.

“If a person becomes hostile, we don’t jump straight to lethal force. Depending on the situation -- if the person has a weapon, how big they are compared to the officer, all these are factors considered when we use non-lethal force,” Staff Sgt. D’Avery Crawford, a 19th SFS trainer, said. 

“About three or four weeks after I taught a student how to use the OC spray (pepper spray), he actually had to use it at the back gate. He did what he needed to do, and he did it pretty well,” he said.

The trainers strive to make the events as real as possible to develop the “muscle memory” to respond to life and death situations. 

“Some of the other training we did was simmunition training that we just started recently, which teaches you how to respond to active shooters in case you have to respond and some of the tactics we’d use in that environment,” said Rivers. 

Goad said the changing training program provides a continually kinetic process that keeps the program scenarios relevant to his Defenders’ duties. 

“If there are any new requirements that come down, we adapt and we adjust our training.  This is the first full calendar year we’ve had a chance to evaluate the program,” he said. “I’m sure there will be a lot of communication between us and AMC and Security Forces Center, but so far it seems to be going really well.

“For people outside looking in, I’d like them to know that the security forces on this base will continue to do their best to protect the people and resources of this base,” he said. “The training we do directly enhances how we do our job.”

TOP STORY >> New shuttle service takes Airmen out, about

By Arlo Taylor

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs 

A new bus shuttle service launched this month providing those living in the dorms without cars a chance to break the surly bonds of the base and have some fun downtown.

The next shuttle trip set for Sept. 26 picks riders up at the Walters Community Support Center at 5:30 and 6 p.m. headed for stops at McCain Mall in North Little Rock and the River Market in Little Rock. The service picks up patrons from McCain Mall at 9:30 p.m. and the River Market at 10:30 p.m. 

Riders must register with the 19th Force Support Squadron’s Information Tickets and Tours office no later than the day before the trip. The cost is $5 per person for the round-trip service.

“We decided to start the shuttle service to offer our airmen a more affordable option [for dorm residents] to get off base and enjoy what North Little Rock and Little Rock have to offer,” said Andrea Hammock, the 19th FSS Information, Tickets and Tours manager. “Advantages to this service are saving money and getting out into the local community, as well as providing an alternative to returning to base safely after a night out. “

Though the service is aimed at Airmen living in base dorms, it is open to all military ID card holders who would like a lift downtown for the nominal fee.

“[We] continuously look for ways to improve the quality of life for our military and their families,” said Monica Young, 19th FSS marketing director. “It is a very economical way to visit McCain Mall or downtown Little Rock.”

Customer feedback, as well as use of the program will be crucial to the service expanding to other areas of the Little Rock Metro area.

“Now that word has started to spread we have received many inquiries and positive feedback on the program,” Hammock said. “[Expanding our route] is definitely a possibility if the locations are popular requests and the service is utilized. 

“Unfortunately, if there is no participation for this service, we could potentially not offer it anymore,” she said. 

The shuttle service can also be reserved for special occasion treks. A person who books a trips with 20 or more passengers will get their trip fee comped. Trip fees are calculated by the actual cost of the trip divided by the number of guests who attend.

For more information about the shuttle service or other adventures ITT offers, call 987-5105 or visit www.rockinattherock.com. 

TOP STORY >> C-130 training spans the globe

By Cheri Dragos-Pritchard 

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

During fiscal year 2014 nearly 200 international students from 19 different countries received C-130 flying and maintenance training here through the 714th and 373rd Training Squadrons respectively.   

Recently, George Gagnon, a senior executive service member and the director of International Training and Education for Air Education and Training Command, visited the 314th and 189th Airlift Wings to discuss the international training program and visit the C-130 Center of Excellence training facility. 

“Our aircraft are not considered the primary weapon we have in our arsenal,” Gagnon said about why other countries want to come to the U.S. for training. “Our primary weapon system is our U.S. Air Force Airmen. We train professionals and other countries want their airmen to be like our Airmen. They want trained professionals.” 

Col. Jeffrey Gast, 314th Airlift Wing vice commander, added, “The 314th Airlift Wing and its partners, the 189th and 19th Airlift Wings, provide the world’s premier training to air forces around the globe that operate C-130s.”

During the visit, Gagnon talked about what his office and personnel can do to help the international training program. He discussed the mission and structure of his office as well as Air Force Security Assistance Training. 

“We develop, deliver and manage education and training solutions,” stated Gagnon. “We are the executive agent for all Air Force-sponsored international training.”

The director went on to say air forces all over the world ask for training here, and he does his best not to turn away a customer. 

“We just have to find the right program and location, and Little Rock Air Force Base is the best solution in the international community for C-130J combat airlift training.”

Gagnon and his team toured the training facility and learned the difference between the J and H model C-130s while here. He also set plans for the Air Force Security Assistance Training team to make a return visit in October to gauge the capacity for increased international training in the future.

TOP STORY >> Defenders vigilant during threat, receive commander’sgratitude and medals for quick response

By Tech. Sgt. Stacia Zachary

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Zachary Freese and Airman 1st Class Codee Smith, 19th Security Forces Squadron Defenders, received the Air Force Commendation Medal during a ceremony Sept. 14 at the Military Operations Urban Terrain (MOUT) Village on Little Rock Air Force Base.

What began as a normal day on June 15 quickly turned into a day that would prove training to be invaluable when dealing with life-threatening situations.

At approximately 9:15 a.m., after the peak of inbound morning traffic passed, the Defenders closed the entry control point on Vandenberg Drive to a single lane. In an instant, a calm situation turned chaotic when a person drove his SUV upwards of 80 miles an hour into the gate. Before ramming the gate, he hit a light post in front of the base visitor center. At that moment, the Defenders reacted as if the person was seriously injured and immediately went to render first aid.

That was until the person got out of the vehicle brandishing a rifle.

The Defenders then went from first responders rendering aid to controlling a hostile situation. After a series of verbal commands, the suspect aimed the weapon at one of the Defenders with the intent to fire. And the Defenders reacted, containing the situation and ultimately stopping the suspect with deadly force.

Ten seconds. That’s how long the Defenders had to react to the situation and regain control.

“One thing that stays with me is how the events went from a vehicle accident to a man with a weapon,” said Freese, a native of Jennings, Louisiana. “It happened so quickly, but we were ready.”

In those few split seconds between the vehicle crashing into a light post in front of the Visitors’ Control Center and the suspect exiting the disabled vehicle brandishing a weapon, the Defenders stepped up and took control of the situation without hesitation.

“When the wolf came knocking at the door ... every one of you ran to the sound of gunfire. It’s impressive that when civilians took cover, you ran toward danger,” said Col. Charles Brown Jr., 19th Airlift Wing and installation commander, before the medal presentation. “You couldn’t get there fast enough. When you come up to the base, there’s a sign that says ‘By order of the installation commander, no weapons allowed on base.’ You took your charge seriously, and your actions quite literally saved lives.”

For Smith, this instinct is something that was instilled in him from an early age.

“We brought him up in Alaska, and we taught him early on about guns and how to protect his family,” said Tammy Smith, mother of Airman Smith, natives of North Pole, Alaska. “I’m so glad that when this happened ... he followed his training and didn’t hesitate.”

For the 19th SFS Defenders, their actions can best be attributed to not only instinct, but also to the regular training that is conducted to keep their skills sharp and prepare them on how to address given scenarios.

“Muscle memory played a large part in how we responded that day,” Freese said. “We train to certain scenarios, and this was a perfect example of something we trained for and unfortunately had to deal with real-world. The thing about that day was everyone reacted - it wasn’t just one person leading and others following along. We reacted as a unit. That’s what training does.”

One Defender ran so quickly to the defense of his fellow Airmen that he had to unleash his military working dog because he was outrunning the service dog. All of these immediate actions were to ensure that the base perimeter was not breached and the safety of those on base and in the community directly outside the fence line remained safe.

“This proves that no matter how far you are from the flightline on Little Rock AFB, you are a Combat Airlifter,” Brown said. “The base remains safe because of their vigilance. My appreciation will never be grander for you.”

The 19th SFS worked closely with the Air Force Office of Special Investigations, Jacksonville Police Department and the FBI to bring a final resolution to the incident.

TOP STORY >> Swinging for Therapy

By Senior Airman Kaylee Clark

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The golfer’s diet is a healthy balance of “greens,” perfect weather and a group of friends who know how to push buttons. 

The environment that surrounds the course is friendly, yet competitive. Like all other golfers, Randy Hays embraces the banter and desire to compete. He commands an inanimate object to do as he says -which may seem like lunacy, but it’s simply part of the game. 

He concentrates on proper grip, ball placement and body alignment for his swing.

And when his one-handed swing hits that sweet spot sending his ball soaring down the fairway on the Deer Run Golf Course, Hays stops and watches in admiration. 

While serving in the U.S. Army, Hays was involved in a car accident 19 years ago and left with little to no use in his left arm and leg. 

He played golf prior to his accident, but it has been two decades since the last time he has swung a club. With no intentions of letting his injuries hold him down, Hays takes full advantage of any opportunity that keeps him active. 

Randy initially learned about the opportunities at the Little Rock AFB course at an Arkansas Freedom Fund tournament. 

“You can do anything you want to under the right conditions and with the right attitude,” he said while preparing to take another swing. 

Hays uses one of the course’s specialized golf carts for wounded veterans.  The carts allow those with limited mobility a way to continue their love of the links. The golf course has adopted the Helping Our Patriots Everywhere (HOPE) program.

He takes the training home by using the carpet in his living room as an opportunity for putting practice. 

Twelve employees and volunteers offered up their time to train and get a feel for what people with disabilities deal with while trying to master the game. 

“We have programs to help everyone learn the game,” said Doug Carlton, 19th Force Support Squadron PGA Golf Course manager. “This year, we trained and started helping golfers with disabilities. Now we can say we truly have a program to help everyone learn the game.” 

The golf clubs may be shorter and built to be swung with one hand or built with special grips, but HOPE provides the specialized equipment so the participants can focus on the swing. 

“Each person is different, and we set up and build equipment for their specific situations,” said Carlton. “Helping everyone enjoy the benefits of the golf course makes my job very rewarding.”

With supporting equipment ready for hitting the links, the golfers only must worry about “gripping it and ripping it.” 

Hays’ legs may be weak and he can’t grip the club with both hands, but his drive and passion becomes more visible than the scars from his accident. When asked if he’d be back next week, he looks as if that question shouldn’t even have to be asked.

Spending most of his time on the driving range and practice green, Hays’ goal is to take his lessons to the course and play a full round of 18 holes. 

“When I told Randy’s therapist he was ready to play, he told me that Randy had been talking about the last golf lesson all week,” said Carlton. “That’s all I need.” 

Deer Run Golf Course offers a variety of golf programs: to try out a free lesson contact them at 501-987-6825 for more details.

TOP STORY >> 31 graduate ALS Class 15-7

Thirty-one senior airmen graduated on Sept. 3 from Airman Leadership School Class 15-7.

Andrew Schmitz, 19th Maintenance Squadron, received the John Levitow Award; Regina Edwards, 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs, received the Leadership Award; Paul Bennett, 19th Contracting Squadron, received the Academic Award and Distinguished Graduate Award; and Nathaniel Pepin, 19th Aerospace Medicine Squadron, received the Distinguished Graduate Award.

The other graduates are: Cassandra Avilez, 314th Operations Group, Kimberly Bailes, 41st Airlift Squadron, Charles Bise, 19th Communications Squadron, Steven Brooks Jr., 19th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Jason Burns, 19th Comptroller Squadron, Jasmine Clark, 913th Airlift Group, Herrmann Drew, 913th Airlift Group, Jonathan Dye, 189th Airlift Wing, Stefan Eiermann, 29th Weapons Squadron, Krystopher Fletcher, 19th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Brandon Goewert, 19th Logistics Readiness Squadron, Sidney Harrington, 19th Aerospace Medicine Squadron, Joseph Hight, 314th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, Tatiana Horn, 19th Security Forces Squadron, Lance Hulley, 50th Airlift Squadron, Cory Jackson, 189th Airlift Wing, Khroy Kean, 62nd Airlift Squadron, Juan Ledet, 61st  Airlift Squadron, Dominque McNeal, 19th Civil Engineer Squadron, Lauren Morris, 19th Force Support Squadron, Nathaniel Pepin, Neil Richardson, 19th Civil Engineer Squadron, Seth Roberts, 19th Operations Support Squadron, Scott Silva, 19th Maintenance Squadron, Joya Stearns, 48th Airlift Squadron, Ryann Vincent, 314th Maintenance Squadron, Steven Walker, 19th Maintenance Squadron, and Alex Yarbrough, 19th Operations Support Squadron.

TOP STORY >> Rusty metal: 9/11 memorial stands as tribute to all TLR deployers

By Senior Airman Scott Poe 

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs 

Airmen walk through the hallways of an ordinary building as they leave for a deployment. Before their final steps to the aircraft, Airmen pass something rather extraordinary: a monument constructed out of rusted steel. 

While it may appear to be just a mass of salvaged metal, in reality it is a symbol of rebirth and redemption. The monument is a representation of what the deploying service members are fighting for or why they joined the military. The nearly 200-pound memorial of rusty iron was once a floor joist above the 74th floor of the World Trade Center. 

The metal once stood as physical support. Now, in its new life, it represents adversity and strife that Americans have endured.

Chief Master Sgt. Bubba Beason, the 19th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron superintendent, received orders to deploy in 2009. Before leaving, there was something he wanted to do. Beason wanted a reminder of why he was going. Prior to his departure, Beason visited Hangar 17 at JFK International Airport, where debris from the World Trade Center was stored.

The hangar housed pieces of the World Trade Center and other wreckage from 9/11. There were emergency vehicles that had been crushed by falling debris and mangled subway cars. 

“It was almost like going to church; as we walked in, we all just got quiet,” Beason said. “It takes the air out of your lungs as you realize that this is where 3,000 people died. This is where someone went to work on Tuesday morning and didn’t come back. Seeing something like that will change you.”

After processing all the paper work, he was granted release of pieces from the World Trade Center wreckage. Knowing what it meant to him, Beason wanted the metal to be on display as a constant reminder for others. These pieces were then cut up and dispersed among different military installations. 

“I realized after receiving the steel, that I need to share it,” he said. “We made 27 coin-shaped pieces for gold-star moms. We also had some delivered to different bases.”

At Little Rock Air Force Base, the monument stands in Building 430, where all deploying Team Little Rock Airmen process.   

“We made the base of the monument in the shape of the Pentagon, and then we took the I-beam and stood it straight up and put the metal in the shape of Arkansas on the top,” Beason said. “We also put a mural behind it and lit it up.” 

This mural serves as a constant reminder of the sacrifices that were made that day. It reminds all who pass by the effect the events of 9/11 had on the American way of life.

“I don’t know what memories it evokes or what emotions it evokes, but it’s a chapter of our history,” said Beason. “Everybody who steps out the door touches it, looks at it and takes pictures with it, because that’s ultimately what you are going out the door for.”

TOP STORY >> Exercise tests base’s procedures, resolve

By 19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Team Little Rock members tested the base’s Antiterrorism response procedures Aug. 26, 2015.

The base exercised progression through FPCON levels, Shelter-In-Place Procedures, and Patient Decontamination at the 19th Medical Group.  

Specifically, the teams responded to a domestic terrorist and chemical, biological, radiological and nuclear threats.

“As a key element of the Air Force Inspection System’s (AFIS) continual evaluation process, a small team of AMC/IG professionals were on-site for a mid-point visit to observe the 19th AW Commander’s Inspection Program (CCIP) in action and provide important mentorship to the Wing’s IGI team,” said  Maj. Jason Baker, 19th AW Director of Inspections.

 These exercises are vital to testing processes and capabilities to ensure the base can continue operations in a hazardous environment with minimal to no loss of personnel or resources.

“What they found was a completely integrated Team Little Rock Wing Inspection Team (WIT) effort and invaluable inter-command partnerships at all levels--both of which are crucial to our installation’s defense and continued excellence,” Baker said. 

TOP STORY >> Safety giggles

Comedian makes safety a laughing matter

By Senior Airman Scott Poe

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The subject of safety is no joke, but Team Little Rock members laughed and learned about the serious subject from comedian Steve Verret Aug. 28.

Verret visited the Rock as part of the Base’s continued focus on the critical days of summer. However, his safety spiel was not like most that military members experience. Instead of “death by Powerpoint”, his performance encouraged audience participation and tackled topics ranging from vehicle safety to suicide prevention.  

As a former traffic safety teacher, Verret learned the language of laughter enlivened the dull subject of safety. His funny stories of his Louisiana Cajun upbringing and youthful misadventures were a hit with his students. 

“When I moved to California I was doing comedy at The Improv and someone told me that there was a job opening for someone who wanted to teach driving safety,” said Verret. “So I went to teach traffic safety, but I didn’t do it the traditional way, I taught in a comedic way.”  

He learned quickly that the techniques from his standup act translated well to the safety setting. He uses his gift of gab to inspire people to look at safety from a different perspective. 

“I believe a person retains much more information when they are having fun and laughing,” said Verret. “I figure if I can save one life by doing these shows, then it’s totally worth it.” 

“I always think what a tragedy it would be if someone serving our country would die because of not wearing a seatbelt or they didn’t have their headrest up or they didn’t think before they had alcohol before they drove the car,” he said. “So I am doing my little part I think to help people who serve our country.” 

Richard Myers, 19th Airlift Wing occupational safety manager, said participants enjoyed the show and he looks forward to inviting Verret back.

“Steve Verret offers a fresh way of delivering safety information through comic relief,” said Myers. “His unique approach to communicating the safety message is one that rejuvenates the Airmen’s perspective on safety here at Little Rock, and we look forward to seeing him again.”

TOP STORY >> AFE experts better Afghan Air Force

By Tech. Sgt. Joseph Swafford 

455th Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

KABUL, Afghanistan - Airmen assigned to the 455th Air Expeditionary Wing recently traveled to Hamid Karzai International Airport to assist Train, Advise, Assist Command-Air with training and validating the Afghan air force’s aircrew flight equipment section.

The three-day trip gave the 455th AEW Airmen the opportunity to share their AFE knowledge with their Afghan counterparts and also assist TAAC-Air with keeping Coalition AFE equipment current.

Having AFE qualified technicians is critical as Afghanistan continues to strengthen its Air Force.

“We’re building up the Afghan air force so they can stand on their own two feet,” said Master Sgt. Michael Doane, TAAC-Air flight equipment adviser and operations team superintendent. “A critical part of that is making sure the pilots can leave and return safely to base and they do that with the equipment AFE provides for them in the aircraft.”

Doane is a one man shop and having the extra help from the 455th truly makes an impact on the success of the TAAC-Air mission.

“With having the extra help here we were able to get a week’s worth of work done in half a day,” said Doane. “Without the last visit and this visit I wouldn’t be able to survive my mission and would have failed without working seven days a week, 15 hours a day. It was awesome to have the help and be able to have a team here; the support has been immeasurable.”

One of the Airmen who came down to assist Doane works with him back at their home station of Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas, and he knew he would bring a lot of C-130 knowledge to share with the AAF.

“Having his expertise here for the C-130 mission is awesome. A lot of the things I’ve learned at Little Rock, with it being my first C-130 base, were taught to me by Staff Sgt. Maurer,” said Doane. “So who better to come down and teach these guys. Having worked together in the past I knew it would be a good example for the Afghans to see how the U.S. Air Force works. Knowing what he would say and do showed a unified front and that we have our stuff together.”

The AAF C-130s were acquired from the U.S. and once resided at Little Rock, so seeing the same aircraft that they used to work on brought back memories for the two Little Rock Airmen.

“It was surreal to see the same aircraft that I had seen for years,” said Staff Sgt. John Maurer, 774th Expeditionary Airlift Squadron AFE noncommissioned officer in charge. “I remembered all the times of opening the door and climbing the steps to do post-flight inspections with an American flag on the tail, now coming out here and seeing the same aircraft with an Afghan flag is really cool.”

“It’s full circle seeing some of the same aircraft that I’ve worked on at Little Rock,” said Doane. “The latest aircraft we received I got a folder with all the inspection letters addressed to me. I got to show the Afghans that this came from my base and now I’m here to train them on it. I think it is appreciated to the lowest levels of the AFE shop here that I’m here to teach them on equipment I’m familiar with.”

After the three day trip, the 455th AEW Airmen were amazed at how much knowledge the Afghan airmen retained from Doane and their eagerness to learn more.

“I was honestly taken back on how much the Afghans wanted to show their knowledge of AFE with us,” said Master Sgt. Nicholas Voaklander, 555th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron AFE quality assurance noncommissioned officer in charge. 

“Even with a language barrier they were able to point at things and show us what they would normally check and demonstrated what they have learned.”

“It was pretty awesome to share the knowledge I have for my job with someone who truly appreciates it and is eager to learn,” said Maurer. “They appreciated the fact that we took time out of our regular job to teach them.”