TOP STORY >> Runway regulators

By Airman 1st Class Mercedes Muro 

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

On the far west end of Chief Master Sgt. Williams Drive, airfield management sits hidden amongst the many buildings along the flightline. Located in the Base Operations building, airfield management is heavily relied upon to keep Little Rock Air Force Base’s airfield up and running. 

Since a variety of squadrons and units work on the flightline, airfield management governs the airfield and the flightline as a “jack-of-all-trades” to ensure all flightline operations are running smoothly. 

“We have to know a little bit about everything that goes around the airfield,” said Kerry Miller, 19th Operations Squadron airfield manager. “We have to know how units operate so we can keep the airfield clear.” 

Airfield management coordinates with the air traffic control tower, security forces, protocol and many other units that work on the flightline to ensure the airfield is safe to use.  Airfield management also oversees all vehicle traffic on the flightline. 

“What most people see us do is manage the front desk,” said Miller. “But we do so much more. If it’s on that airfield, we check it.”

When conducting a check, an airfield management Airman travels out to the flightline to complete their daily checklist. Airmen check for grass height, wildlife, water and foreign object debris. During the winter season, the flightline is checked for large amounts of ice and whether there is enough friction for the airfield to be usable. Twice a year checks are completed for paint markings on the flight line and rubber build up from aircraft tires. 

Airfield management received Air Mobility Command’s and the Air Force’s top airfield award in 2013. The shop is manned 24/7 by 12 Airmen and four civilians to keep up with the mission. 

“The shop runs very well,” said Miller. “We have a very good team of military members and civilians that work together.”

Although their presence may feel small, no one can deny that the role of airfield management is critical to mission success. 

 “Without our runway and our airfield, we have no mission,” said Miller. “It’s my guys who go out there and take care of that airfield. It’s the most vital piece pf property we have, and it’s our job to make sure it’s well taken care of.” 

BRIEFS >> 120514

Chapel position available

The Little Rock AFB chapel is seeking a Catholic parish coordinator. The individual is required to coordinate Catholic parish programs, ministry volunteers and leaders for training, budget inputs and scheduled events. Interested bidders should have formal training that is relevant to this position or at least two years of work experience in a similar or related field. An associate’s degree is required, but higher education is preferred. Background checks will be required as directed by DoDI 1402. The award of this contract will be based upon the best value to the government. Bid documents including the Statement of Work, criteria of selection and general provisions can be obtained from building 950, Monday - Friday, 7:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. and 1- 4:30 p.m. All sealed bids must be received by the chapel no later than 9 a.m., Jan. 7. Further information associated with duties and bid submission for this contract position can be obtained by contacting Master Sgt. David George or Tech Sgt. Juan Santoy at the base chapel at 501-987-6014.

Tax volunteers wanted

The Little Rock Air Force Base Tax Center will open its doors Feb. 2 and is currently accepting  volunteers for the upcoming 2014 tax season. Tax Center volunteers are trained through the IRS Volunteer Income Tax Assistance Program, receiving valuable education on completion of federal and state tax returns. Volunteers are instrumental in meeting the tax filing needs for hundreds of active duty, reservists, dependents, and retirees from the surrounding area. Training is tentatively scheduled for mid-December 2014 and is a requirement for first time volunteers; optional for returning volunteers. Those interested in becoming a Tax Center volunteer or have any questions about the VITA program, please call Capt. David Aschwege or Senior Airman Yia Thao at the Legal Office at 501-987-7886. At the conclusion of the training, volunteers qualify as certified tax preparers, a crucial skill for managing their own financial affairs.

CLASSIFIEDS >> 120514

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.

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

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

BE HOME INSPECTOR IN 30 DAYS OR LESS - We offer: Home & Commercial Inspection Training & Continuing Ed Inspection classes. For details, info: Call 501-796-3627 or e-mail abc@tcworks.net for details or visit:, www.abchii.com.**

CONWAY, ARKANSAS GUN SHOW - Dec. 6-7, Faulkner Co. Fairgrounds Expo Center.  Sat, 9 am-5 pm, Sun, 9 am-4 pm. Guns, Knives, Ammo, Militaria, Lg. Selection new/used rifles, shotguns,& handguns. G&S Promotions, 1-918-659-2201. $2.00 OFF admission with this ad.**

SERVICES

DOES YOUR HOME NEED: SIDING, WINDOWS or a METAL ROOF?  ONLY 3 HOMES LEFT TO QUALIFY for our show case of homes. SAVE HUNDREDS OF DOLLARS. No money down. 100% Financing. Payments as low as $89/mo. CALL NOW !!!! 1-866-668-8681, to qualify.**

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

DISH TV Retailer. Starting at $19.99/month (for 12 mos.) & High Speed Internet starting at $14.95/month (where available.) SAVE! Ask About SAME DAY Installation! CALL Now! 1-800-393-5829.**

YARD SALES

YARD SALE, 12/6, 8 am-noon, 152 Pleasant Ridge Rd., El Paso. Everything must go!

HELP WANTED

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

DRIVERS: CLASS A. New pay structure. Security, stability, security, steadiness. Drive Transland.com. (866) 374-8487.

LPN/PRN - FULL TIME, (days and nights available), PA/PTA - Physical Therapist or Physical Therapy Assistant with current Ar. Licensure, working with special needs children. Fax resumes to: 501-945-0219 • Arkansas Pediactric Facility 4100 Heritage, NLR AR 72117 • CALL: 501-945-3177, visit our website:www.arkansaspediatricfacility.com.**

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

ATTN: Drivers - $2K Sign-On Bonus, Love your $55K Job! $2K Sign-On Bonus + Benefi ts. Avg., $1100 Weekly. CDL-A Req. 877-258-8782 www.Ad-Drivers.com.**

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

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

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.

PETS

2 BOXERS, affectionate, playful & very loving, 3 yrs. old, fawn female (75 lbs.) & white male (90 lbs.), both fixed. Must go together. Extras included. Call/text (501) 553-3120.

Cow Feed - Gin trash delivery available. Semi loads 731-676-0857.**

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

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

MOBILE HOMES

MOBILE HOME - Moulding, $1, Floor Vents, $6, Outswing Doors $169, Combo doors $299, Skirting $7.25, Tubs, $160, Tires, $60, Faucets, Vent Hoods, 501-993-3144.**

HOUSES FOR RENT

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

CABOT: 3 bedroom, 2 bath, approximately 1800 sq. ft., all new stainless steel appliances in kitchen. New fixtures & ceiling fans, master bath has his & hers closets & vanity sinks. $1,275 mo., $1,275 deposit. No smoking, pets negotiable. (501) 628-1225.

ROOM FOR rent in Cabot. $400 per month. Laundry & kitchen privileges. Free wifi. For info. text: (501) 514-5263.

DUPLEX FOR rent: Cabot School District, 2 bedroom, 1 bath, 15 minutes from base, large fenced yard, small storage building, washer/dryer hookups, private road. (501) 605-7502.

CABOT: BEAUTIFUL & spacious, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1623 sq. ft. Built 2008, less than 10 minutes from LRAFB. Custom features throughout, low utilities. No smoking, 12 month lease. $1,200 month. (501) 605-2640.

CABOT - NEW construction, 3 bedroom, 2 bath, 1410 sq. ft. home on 1 acre. Quiet lot. All electric. $1150 month & deposit, 1 yr. lease. Call (501) 259-8828,

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

TOP STORY >> More than just a workout

By Senior Airman Stephanie Serrano

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

Little Rock Air Force Base offers numerous fitness and nutrition programs to Team Little Rock members. 

One program in particular has exceeded all expectations in the past few years.

Starting with only a handful of students required to attend due to PT failures, to reaching more than 1,500 participants attending each month on their own free will, the Vital 90 class, has come a long way. 

Vital 90 is a high intensity group-fitness class designed to motivate. Although the class has different and difficult assignments, where physical strength is challenged each time, Airmen and authorized civilians continue to participate as the class continues to grow in numbers as well as instructors. 

“It not only pushes you to your limits but also teaches people the principles behind the workout and the proper way to perform each exercise safely,” said Jeff Vaughn, 19th Medical Group health promotion flight chief and Vital 90 instructor.

The attendees work together and build camaraderie. The class is designed this way to allow people to feel comfortable and help each other. There is constant encouragement in the class from the instructors as well as the classmates. 

“It’s great because it puts you in an environment where you get a solid work out plan, encouragement, and an education on how to get the most out of your activity all for free,” said Tech. Sgt. Jeffery Clouse, frequent member of Vital 90.

After attending the class for 90 days and using dietary guidance the Health and Wellness Center provided, Clouse lost 27 pounds, five inches off his waist, and took two minutes off his run time. 

“Many bases talk about changing lifestyles to meet the physical requirements of the United States Air Force, but this is the only base I’ve seen that is doing and living it,” said Clouse. 

With all the education gained from the course, Clouse can now pass the training down to others as he prepares to become a physical training leader.

Each person has their own strengths and weaknesses, and the Vital 90 instructors work with participants to modify each workout to maximize ability. 

Just like Clouse, Vital 90 has helped improve the lifestyles of others as well.

New class member, Maj. Philip Erwin, credits the recent success on his PT test to his time attending Vital 90. Erwin was able to complete his first full PT test in two years after being on profiles because of injuring his foot. 

“I tell everyone I know, whether they need it or not, to come to Vital 90 just for the education,” said Erwin.

Vital 90 is a place to adapt and overcome, as long as participants are willing to put in the work. 

“No matter what your fitness level is, anyone can do it,” said Vaughn. “Don’t be intimidated, just come and you’ll see.”

SPORTS >> There can only be one

By Senior Airman Cliffton Dolezal

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

The brackets have been set and the 2014 intramural flag football post season is ready for kickoff. Three teams will enter the playoffs with only one loss. It’s certainly shaping up to be one of the more exciting post seasons Little Rock Air Force Base has ever seen. 

Last year’s champions, the 314th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, managed to skate by this season after only succumbing to two losses. Considering they lost a few key starters, I believe they are happy with the way they finished up this season. Nevertheless I expect the 314th AMXS to be there until the end.

Another one of my favorites to make the championship game is the “Renegades” from Camp Robinson. They run a very fast paced game and are always a threat with the ball. They’ll run circles around you if you’re not a disciplined defense, and once you load the box to try and prevent the run attempts, bam! They’ll run some play action and hit one of their wideouts over the top. Their defense plays the same way; fast and smart. Look out for these guys.

And finally, my sleeper pick. I’m predicting the 19th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron team 2 to do some damage. With a record of 6-3, they have shown they can win games. But two of their losses have come from good teams; last year’s champions, the 314th AMXS, and the Renegades. Plus they only lost those two games by a combined score of six points. Do not take this team lightly. 

I know I’m not going to make many friends with this pick, but I’m going with the Renegades from Camp Robinson to win it all. From what I’ve seen, they are the best all-around team. I expect them to cruise through the playoffs. 

Whoever takes the cake will have bragging rights for a year and the honor of safeguarding the trophy during the offseason. During the games I have covered the team with the largest fan base usually generates momentum more quickly and has more of an advantage in the critical moments of the game, so come out and show your support and fly your colors!

TOP STORY >> ‘After 59 years, Little Rock AFB is still home’

By Airman 1st Class Harry Brexel

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs 

Retired Maj. Julius Budelis has shared a love for his wife and Little Rock Air Force Base for almost 60 years. Budelis is one of the few people who can recall being stationed at The Rock the same year the base opened. 

Budelis first arrived at Little Rock in 1955. 

“Back then, there was nothing here,” Budelis said. “The mission set was to build the base. I remember helping construct the dorm buildings. The dorms, chapel and headquarters’ building were the only major structures on the base.”

At the time, Budelis was a personnel specialist who managed records and handled budgeting, but he completed other tasks in order to adjust to the base’s mission. 

When the base first opened, it was one of only four newly constructed Air Force bases in the country. All other bases at the time were originally built for the Army.

In 1955, the base and surrounding areas were much different than they are now.

“When I first got to Little Rock AFB, Jacksonville had about 3,500 residents,” said Budelis. “There were no highways built, and the only place to eat was a hot dog stand.” 

Budelis originally grew up in Connecticut, the son of Lithuanian immigrants. For him, moving to the south was an easy transition. 

“I grew up in a small town, so I was used to that type of environment,” said Budelis. “Even though there were only around 125 Airmen stationed here, I was able to stay active through volunteering with the boy scouts.” 

Along with volunteering, Budelis stayed busy by attending college at Little Rock Junior College, now named the University of Arkansas at Little Rock. Little Rock Junior College is also where Budelis met his life-long partner.  

“I remember standing in line waiting to register for classes,” said his wife, Rosemary Budelis. “He was standing in front of me and offered to let me go ahead of him.” 

Rosemary, a Little Rock native, and Budelis hit it off and later became one of the first couples to get married at the Little Rock AFB Chapel. 

“Once we were married, we moved to a rustic lodge on Camp Robinson, as there was no base housing at Little Rock AFB,” said Budelis.  

Budelis and his wife received orders that same year. Upon their departure, Little Rock AFB had grown to become an integral part of the Strategic Air Command. The base hosted the 384th Bombardment Wing that flew the B-47E Stratojet, and the 70th Reconnaissance Wing, which flew the RB-47 Stratojet and KC-97 Stratofreighter.

The couple experienced their own myriad of changes during their 57 years of marriage.

“We now have two children and three grandchildren,” said Budelis. “After retiring, we moved back to the Little Rock area, and the base now gives me everything I need as a retiree. This is home for me; it is where I met the love of my life and grew as a young Airman.”

Over the years, Budelis had assignments in Oklahoma, Louisiana, Texas, Ohio and Libya. However, his two-year stint at Little Rock AFB has been his and Rosemary’s favorite.   

“Little Rock is the most family-oriented base we’ve been to,” said Budelis. “People from the area are friendly and Airmen are totally accepted by the community.”

The amount of changes that Little Rock AFB has seen still surprises the Budelis’. The two look forward to the base’s 60th anniversary and embrace all of the base upgrades. 

“We never thought the base would get this big,” the couple said. “It seems like there are new buildings being constructed every time we visit. We’re still waiting on an indoor pool though.” 

TOP STORY >> Little Rock AFB assists Afghan Air Force

Airman 1st Class Harry Brexel

19th Airlift Wing Public Affairs 

Recently, Airmen from Little Rock Air Force Base assisted the Afghan armed forces in making a giant step toward military independence by helping in the organization of a modern Afghan Air Force. One Airman in particular led the way in the pivotal achievement. 

Lt. Col. Christopher Garcia, an Airman from the 19th Airlift Wing, was selected to help in the creation of an Afghan Air Force, consisting of rotary and fixed wing aircraft.

“Essentially, we were to help bring the Afghan Air Force into the 21st century,” said Garcia. “Though I have had five previous deployments, none were similar to my most recent assignment to Kabul.”

Garcia left Little Rock AFB for a one-year deployment in August of 2013 for the 538th Air Expeditionary Wing in Kabul, Afghanistan. 

“When I arrived, the squadron had six C-208 aircraft and zero C-130s. The only two Afghan C-130 pilots and sole flight engineer were still undergoing qualification training abroad,” Garcia said.   

Garcia was the director of operations for a team of coalition members that made up the 538th Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron. The unit had to be very creative in order to work in a dynamic combat environment. Successes were achieved in spite of personnel cuts, base attacks and learning of the Afghan culture. 

“Against the hurdles, the first two Afghan Air Force C-130s arrived at the end of September 2013,” Garcia said. “Both of the planes were formerly assigned to Little Rock AFB.”  

Receiving the C-130s was a huge accomplishment for the Afghans. 

“It was the largest and fastest plane in their fleet,” Garcia said. “Afghan news networks and political leaders were there to see the planes land.” 

More importantly, the Afghan pilots, who recently graduated their initial training, arrived in Kabul at the same time as the aircraft.

Along with providing complete training for the Afghan pilots, the experience contributed to building better relationships.

“The pilots and I were able to work better after going through similar experiences such as qualification training,” Garcia said. “I really got to know them.”

However, for Garcia, a true sense of accomplishment came eight months later. 

“Getting the planes was a start, but getting the Afghans to fly them on their own was another hurdle,” he said. “The pilots and flight engineer had been trained and were very proficient, but we needed to gather the best of their current C-27 loadmasters and train them in Kabul.” 

Garcia and his team were able to qualify the loadmasters in Kabul. The hands-on training allowed the Afghan loadmasters to transport passengers and one baggage pallet. 

“My proudest moment was when the Afghans accomplished their first mission on their own,” Garcia said. “The quality of the Afghan Air Force crew members allowed us to exceed our goals.” 

The fully operable C-130s and Afghan aircrews showed the country’s growing responsibility for, and ability to, manage its own defense.

“It was a huge step in moving forward for their country and their people,” Garcia said.  

Little Rock AFB  Airmen were vital in much of the training accomplished with the Afghans.  

“Little Rock AFB is the only place in the world where pilots can gain the absolute skill, knowledge and experience in C-130 aviation,” said Garcia. “We’ve been doing this for years. The facilities and trained instructors at Little Rock make it the perfect place for Airmen to master their craft. It allows us to work with international partners while simultaneously meeting multiple standards.”

Though Garcia’s deployment ended in July 2014, the work abroad is ongoing. 

“I know that there will be more Afghan pilots, engineers and loadmasters trained for the C-130 platform,” Garcia said. 

In addition to getting better-trained aircrews, the Afghan Air Force is also set to have an acquired total of four C-130s by the end of 2014. 

“Little Rock AFB played a huge part in creating a legacy for the Afghan Air Force,” said Garcia. “Approximately 70 countries in the world fly the C-130, and now Afghanistan is one of them.”