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J O I N T B A S E S A N A N T O N I O - L A C K L A N D , T E X A S • V o l . 7 3 N o . 4 3 • O c t o b e r 2 8 , 2 0 1 6

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Photo by Benjamin FaskeOffi cer Brian P. Fowler, 802nd Security Forces Squadron emergency services team commander, disarms Senior Master Sgt. Rich Popp, 433rd Operations Group chief loadmaster, during an anti-hijacking exercise Oct. 5 at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland. The 502nd Air Base Wing, 433rd Airlift Wing and 59th Medical Wing held a joint anti-hijacking exercise to evaluate emergency services reaction time to a real-world hijacking scenario.

Alamo Wing exercises anti-hijacking procedures

TALESPINNER October 28, 2016commentary

This newspaper is published by EN Communities, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with JBSA-Lackland, Texas. This commercial enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publication for members of the U.S. military services. Contents of the Talespinner are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, the Department of Defense, or the Department of the Air Force.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force or EN Communities, of the products or services advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.

Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs Office of the 502nd Air Base Wing. All photos, unless otherwise indicated, are U.S. Air Force photos.

Deadline for story submissionsis noon Wednesday the week prior

to publication.

Office2230 Hughes Ave.JBSA-Lackland, Texas78236-5415(phone) 671-2908(fax) 671-2022Email: [email protected]

Straight Talk: 671-6397 (NEWS)

For advertising information:EN CommunitiesP.O. Box 2171 San Antonio, TX 78297250-2052

Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland

Editorial Staff

Brig. gen. HeatHer Pringle

502nd Air BAse Wing/JBsACommAnder

todd g. WHite

502nd ABW/JBsAPuBliC AffAirs direCtor

oscar Balladares

JBsA-lACklAnd PuBliC AffAirs Chief

alain M. Polynice

CommAnd informAtion Chief

senior airMan lynsie nicHols

senior airMan Krystal WrigHt

PhotoJournAlists

JereMy gerlacH Jose t. garza iii

stAff Writers

dorotHy lonas PAge design/illustrAtor

By Tech. Sgt. Joseph D. CipponeriRobert D. Gaylor NCO Academy Professional Military Education Instructor

On a recent drive home, I caught myself in a moment of jealousy – a moment of jealousy over grass. Let me elaborate.

As I made the turn into my neighborhood, I glanced at a house on the corner that had phenomenal green grass. Weed-free, green grass in Texas!

Honestly, I didn’t even know this was possible, because I fertilize, trim, weed, water and mow my lawn and it’s what I like to call undead. I began to believe a yard, such as the one on the corner lot, was futile.

What bothered me more than the fact that the house on the corner had a better yard than my own, was that I was coveting the “greener grass.” How cliché of me. I began to evaluate how often I was experiencing these jealous tendencies.

That evening, as I sat on my

couch in front of my TV with my four-year old son, while my wife cooked dinner with our toddler by her side, I took myself back to times where I was coveting what others had that I did not.

Back in 2005 when the staff sergeant results were released, I stood among my colleagues anxiously awaiting to hear my name called. The commander made his way through the list and my name was not called. Instead of being proud of my peers, I was thinking, “How did some of these fools make

staff and I didn’t?” I found myself reacting the

same way in 2009 when the technical sergeant results were released. I often found myself not celebrating the wins of my peers if I did not also win.

Fast forward to the present. I had an epiphany – I was creating an environment of negativity, an environment of selfishness. In all of these situ-ations I had a choice. I had a choice to lift up my peers and subordinates, a choice to cel-ebrate the successes of others, but I chose wrong.

I chose instead to be a negative, unmotivated and poor leader. I chose to be a supervi-sor whose damaging and de-structive behavior could trickle down to my fellow Airmen. It hurt thinking I wasted so many opportunities to demonstrate attributes of a true leader.

As leaders, we should be teaching and leading Airmen through our actions. We should be lifting up those around us, celebrating their accomplish-ments without letting our own defeats interfere. I cannot turn back time. I can only move for-ward. I admit I have learned. I have learned it is in those moments I, not only have the power, but the duty to do what is right – to truly lead.

Everyday greatness, every-day leadership, lies in every-day choices. So as I sat on my couch, next to my son and looked into the kitchen at my wife and toddler, I chose to never again covet other’s “grass.”

The envy of other people’s greener grass

By Ricardo S. Campos502nd Fire Emergency Services public fire and life safety educator

Ghosts, goblins and other monsters will be coming up your sidewalk this weekend, but of course these non-threatening creatures of the night are none other than children who are en-joying Halloween festivities.

With the excitement of this annual event, Joint Base San Antonio-Fire Emergency Services asks parents to follow a few tips to ensure the night is filled with fun and not tragedy.

In 2013, an estimated 6,100 pedestrian deaths and 160,000 medically consulted nonfatal injuries occurred among pe-destrians in motor vehicles,

according to Injury Facts 2015, the statistical report on unin-tentional injuries created by the National Safety Council, or NSC.

The NCS research revealed the reasons for pedestrian deaths and injuries varied by age. Darting or running into the road accounted for about 70 percent of pedestrian deaths or injuries for those age 5 to 9 and about 47 percent of inci-dents for those 10 to 14.

The American Academy of Pediatrics, or AAP, has compiled a list of Halloween safety tips (https://www.aap.org/en-us/about-the-aap/aappress-room/news-features-and-safety-tips/Pages/Halloween-Safety-Tips.aspx) to help ensure adults and children have safe holiday. This

includes the do’s and don’ts on the trick-or-treat trail.

• All costumes, wigs, and accessories should be fire- resistant.

• If children are allowed out after dark, fasten reflective tape to their costumes and bags to make sure they are visible.

• When buying Halloween makeup, make sure it is non-toxic and always test it in a small area first.

• Watch for children walk-ing on roadways, medians and curbs.

• Enter and exit driveways and alleys carefully.

• At twilight and later in the evening, watch for children in dark clothing.

• Instruct your children to

travel only in familiar, well-lit areas and avoid trick-or treat-ing alone.

• Tell your children not to eat any treats until they return home.

• Teach your children to nev-er enter a stranger’s home.

To learn more Halloween safety tips, visit the National Fire Protection Association’s website at www.nfpa.org/ education or the National Safety Council at http://www.nsc.org/learn/safety-knowledge/Pages/halloween-safety.aspx.

People can also contact the Fire Prevention Offices at JBSA-Fort Sam Houston at 221-1804; JBSA-Lackland at 671-2921 or JBSA-Randolph at 652-6915.

JBSA Fire Emergency Services wishes you a fire-safe and Happy Halloween

“As leaders we should be teaching and leading Airman through our actions. We should be lifting up those around us, celebrating their accomplishments with-out letting our own defeats interfere.”

– Tech. Sgt. Joseph D. CipponeriRobert D. Gaylor NCO Academy Professional Military Education Instructor

October 28, 2016 TALESPINNER PAGE 3newsCCAF GRADUATION TUESDAY

The Joint Base San Antonio Fall Community College of the Air Force gradua-tion will be held at JBSA-Randolph’s Fleenor Theater. Graduates of CCAF programs or any other degree program are welcome to partici-pate. Call 295-4472 for more information.

FEDERAL EMPLOYEES HEALTH BENEFITS FAIR The 802nd Force Support Squadron will

host a Federal Employees Health Benefi ts Fair 8 a.m. to noon Wednesday at the Arnold Hall Community Center, 1560 Stewart St., building 5506. Representatives will be on hand to discuss the Health insurance options. This is your opportunity to enroll, change or cancel health care coverage.

DIABETES AWARENESS HEALTH FAIR NOV. 16

The 59th Wing Medical Management/Disease Management department will be hosting a Diabetes Health Fair 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Nov. 16 at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center’s atrium for Diabetes Awareness Month. There will be various clinics and vendors participating and giving out very useful information that will cater to all diabetic patients. Guest presenter, Melvin Williams, who retired from the New Orleans Saints, will be in attendance to speak about health and wellness. For information about this event, or to participate as a vendor, call 292-2939.

FLU VACCINES AVAILABLE Infl uenza vaccines are available at Wilford

Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center’s atrium, building 4600, for military members, retirees and their dependents who are 9 years and older. The pediatric vaccine for children, aged 3 to 8 years old, and a limited supply for children, aged 6 months to 2 years, are available at the Pediatric Clinic through the child’s primary care manager and at the Im-munizations Clinic. The hours of service are 7:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Monday through Friday.

Flu vaccination is mandatory for all military members and hospital employees. In general, contractors are not eligible. Military members can check their individual medical readiness status as well as retrieve shots records for themselves and dependents under 16 years old at https://imr.afms.mil/imr/My-IMR.aspx. For more, call 292-4278.

AIR FORCE APPROVES TURKEY INCENTIVE PAY

Active-duty Airmen assigned to Turkey between Aug. 29, and Dec. 31, 2018, may be

News in Brief

See NEWS IN BRIEF Page 17JBSA-Lackland • JBSA-Randolph • JBSA-Fort Sam Houston

5 – 8 p.m. Oct. 31

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO

By Staff Sgt. Marissa GarnerJBSA-Lackland Public Affairs

San Antonio area families can express their warmth and hospitality to Airmen and trainees at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland by al-lowing them an opportunity to enjoy a holiday meal and family atmosphere through “Operation Home Cooking.”

In its 41st year, the pro-gram provides the oppor-tunity for families to share their traditional Thanksgiving celebrations with Air Force Airmen and trainees.

Throughout the years, fam-ilies have generously opened their homes to these young men and women, recognizing that many of them are away from home for the fi rst time.

This program is designed for family participation and not intended for groups. This ensures everyone want-ing to participate has an opportunity to do so. Last year, local residents hosted 3,440 Air Force members for Thanksgiving dinner.

Families within the San Antonio metropolitan area may invite no more than two Airmen/trainees as a “General Request.” To request an Airman/trainee under the “By Name Request” program, you must be an immediate family member (e.g., parent, sibling or grandparent) and live in

the San Antonio Metropolitan area. Exception will be for Airmen in the seventh week of training. To request an Airman/trainee through either category, call 671-5453, 671-5454 or 671-3701.

Requests can be made starting Oct. 31 on weekdays from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. Reser-vations are required to host Airmen/trainees. In other words, families can not show

up on Thanksgiving Day “no notice/unannounced” and ob-tain trainees.

Due to heightened security measures, hosts without a cur-rent Department of Defense identifi cation card are re-quired to have a background check and visitor’s pass prior to entering the base. Hosts can pick up their visitor’s pass at the Luke Gate Visitor Reception Center, which is

open 24/7 and located off Military Drive until Nov. 23. Once the total number of Airmen/trainees eligible for the program is reached, no more requests will be taken. The phone lines will remain open till Nov. 23 or until all eligible trainees have been requested, whichever occurs fi rst. Anyone who calls after the total number of Airmen/trainees is reached may be placed on a waiting list and called back if more hosts are required.

Out-of-town relatives who have trainees in basic train-ing that will be graduating during Thanksgiving week may request them by name for Thanksgiving lunch/din-ner. Since trainees are not permitted to have personal transportation during train-ing, hosts must pick up them up. Airmen/trainees who are “General Requests” will be picked up at the Pfi ngston Reception Center, building 6330 while those who are “By Name Request” can be picked up from their respective squadrons on Thanksgiving Day between 7 and 11 a.m.

All Airmen and basic trainees must be returned back to their respective squadrons according to their designated return time, which will be no later than 7 p.m. Plan accordingly for traffi c.

Operation Homecooking gets underway Oct. 31

Courtesy graphic

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIOTrick or Treat

TALESPINNER October 28, 2016

During September 2016, Joint Base San Antonio commanders administered 18 non-judi-cial punishment actions under Article 15 of the Uniform Code of Military Justice.

The punishments imposed reflect the command-er’s determination of an appropriate punishment after considering the circumstances of the offense and the offender’s record.

A “suspended” punishment does not take effect unless the offender engages in additional mis-conduct or fails to satisfy the conditions of the suspension. The suspension period usually lasts for six months unless a lesser amount is specified.

Administrative discharge may also be an option for commanders after the conclusion of an Article 15, depending on the circumstances. The following are some of the non-judicial punishment actions that closed out in September. Decisions regarding discharge are not included.

Conduct unbecoming an officer: A major plagiarized an assignment in the Air Command and Staff College distance learning program. The member received forfeiture of $3,724 pay for one month, suspended forfeiture of $3,474 pay per month for one month and a reprimand.

Willful dereliction of duty: A senior airman willfully failed to refrain from engaging in

offensive, inappropriate, and service-discrediting behavior on social networking platforms. The airman received a reduction to the grade of airman first class, forfeiture of $1,041 pay per month for two months with one month suspended, 45 days of extra duty and a reprimand.

Other offenses under Article 134 (providing alcohol to a minor): An airman first class in tech-nical training unlawfully provided alcohol to an-other member who was under the age of 21. The member received a reduction to the grade of Airman, forfeiture of $878 pay per month for two months with one month suspended and a repri-mand.

Willful dereliction of duty: An airman basic in technical training was caught looking at another student’s test during an examination. The mem-ber received 14 days extra duty, 14 days restric-tion to base, forfeiture of $783 pay per month for two months with one month suspended and a reprimand.

Larceny: An airman basic in technical training stole six lipsticks and a tube of eyelash glue from the Base Exchange. The member received 30 days extra duty, 30 days restriction to base, forfeiture of $783 pay per month for two months with one month suspended and a reprimand.

Drunk and disorderly, disrespect to a commissioned officer, wrongfully altering an ID: An airman basic in technical training was found drunk and vomiting in the bathroom of a build-ing. When Security Forces arrived to assist, the member was disrespectful to a commissioned officer, calling him “bro” and “dude.” It was also discovered that the member had altered the birth date on his ID card to make 1997 look like 1992. The member received 30 days extra duty, 30 days restriction to base, forfeiture of $783 pay per month for two months with one month suspended and a reprimand.

Use of a controlled substance: An airman first class in technical training tested positive on a urinalysis for the use of marijuana. The member received a reduction in grade to airman basic, forfeiture of $783 pay per month for two months (suspended) and a reprimand.

Failure to go, failure to obey: A technical sergeant failed to go to his prescribed place of duty and failed to provide work materials to a superior as directed to do. The member received a reduc-tion to the grade of staff sergeant (suspended), 45 days extra duty and a reprimand.

(Source: Joint Base San Antonio Judge Advocate General)

Crimes and punishment at Joint Base San Antonio

October 28, 2016 TALESPINNER PAGE 5

Every year in the early fall, flu season be-gins again. The flu makes most people feel sick and miserable, but for some people it can be deadly. Getting the flu vaccine ev-ery year is the best way to protect you, your fam-ily and your community from the flu.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommend every-one six months and older get the flu vaccine every year. The flu virus is al-ways changing, so the vaccine changes every year. Getting the shot one year probably won’t protect you the next year. Getting a flu shot every year not only lowers your chances of getting the flu, but it means people you come in contact with are less likely to get the flu from you.

TRICARE beneficiaries can get the flu shot at no cost from their doctor, a participating retail net-work pharmacy or from a military hospital or clinic. If you get the shot at a pharmacy, make sure that you get it from the pharmacist. If it is admin-istered by another health professional at a clinic within the pharmacy, it may not be covered.

If you get your flu shot from a military hospital or clinic, you may want to

call ahead to find a good time and make sure it is available.

This year, the recom-mended flu vaccine is an injectable flu shot. In previous years, a nasal spray, called FluMist was also available. This year, the CDC recommends against using the nasal spray, due to questions surrounding its effective-ness. Military hospitals and clinics will not offer FluMist this year and TRI-CARE will not cover it if you get it from a phar-macy or doctor. Talk to your doctor if you have allergy concerns about the flu shot.

TRICARE covers the flu shot for all ben-eficiaries. Service mem-bers should follow their service policy for getting the shot and getting the proper documentation so it is recorded in their readiness system and

medical records.The flu is a serious dis-

ease that has the poten-tial to spread quickly and easily. Getting the flu shot doesn’t mean you can’t get the flu, but most years it lowers your chance of getting the flu up to 60 percent. Most side effects are temporary and mild, such as soreness and red-ness at the injection site, cough, nasal congestion, sore throat and chills.

For more information about the flu, visit http://www.tricare.mil/flu and your local military treat-ment facility.

(Source: TRICARE)

Flu Season: Don’t get sick, get stuckCourtesy graphic


Since 1970, the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce has organized Celebrate America’s Military, or CAM, an annual tribute to the military. The two-week celebration during the month of November features events pre-sented with community partners, making it the largest event of its kind nationwide.

The following events are open to the public:

CAM OPENING CEREMONY AND 30TH ANNIVERSARY VIETNAM VETERANMEMORIAL DEDICATION

Date/time: Tuesday, 10-11 a.m.Location: 100 Auditorium

Circle, Tobin Center for the Performing Arts Steps

In honor of the 30th anniversa-ry of the dedication of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial, the Chamber hosts an opening ceremony to kick off CAM and commemorate the building of San Antonio’s memorial uniquely designed to remember Vietnam War veterans.

SAN ANTONIO SYMPHONY VETERAN’S DAY CONCERT “SALUTE TO SERVICE,” FEATURING THE U.S. AIR FORCE BAND OF THE WEST AND THE 323RD ARMY BAND “FORT SAM’S OWN.”

Date/time: Tuesday, 7-9 p.m. Location: Majestic Theater,

224 E. Houston St.The San Antonio Symphony, the

U.S. Air Force Band of the West and the 323rd Army Band “Fort Sam’s Own” join together to pres-ent a patriotic musical celebration honoring the nation. While the event is free of charge and open to the public, tickets are required. Ticket holders have pre-access to the Majestic Theater when doors open at 6 p.m. Non-ticket holders will enter at 6:45 p.m.

UIW MILITARY APPRECIATION FOOTBALL GAME

Date/time: Nov. 5, 2:30 p.m. Location: Benson Stadium at

the University of the Incarnate Word, 4301 Broadway

The University of the Incarnate Word Cardinals football team plays the Southeastern Louisiana University Lions, with kickoff at 2:30 p.m. UIW Athletics and Extended Academic Programs host a pre-game military appreciation tailgate. Free admission to the game for all active-duty military, veterans and Department of Defense employees with ID and their families. Parking is $8 per vehicle. First 500 fans will receive a military appreciation drawstring bag. Half-time events include

enlistment ceremony and UIW and Army band performance. To contact the UIW Cardinal ticket offi ce, call 805-3000. Children 2 and up will need a full price ticket. For tickets, visit https://uiw.universitytickets.com.

HUMOR FOR HEROES

Date/time: Nov. 5, 7 p.m.Location: Texas A&M-

San Antonio Auditorium, One University Way

Humor for Heroes strives to demonstrate our appreciation to current and former military mem-bers by providing an entertaining night of comedy, fostering con-nections with military resources and contributing much needed fi nancial support to military chari-ties. This is a ticketed event and open to the public. Tickets are $15 each or two for $25.

UTSA CELEBRATES AMERICA’S MILITARY (DOWNTOWN CAMPUS)

Date/time: Nov. 9, 3-6 p.m.Location: UTSA Downtown

Campus, 501 W. Cesar Chavez Blvd.

VETERANS RESOURCE FAIR AND SPEAKING ENGAGEMENTS. HIRING RED, WHITE AND YOU!

Date/time: Nov. 10, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Location: Freeman Coliseum Expo Hall 2, 3201 E. Houston St.

Join the Texas Workforce Commission, Workforce Solutions Alamo for the 4th Annual Hiring Red White and You Job Fair. This event is designed to connect employers seeking qualifi ed candidates with Texas veterans and their family members seeking employment.

UTSA CELEBRATES AMERICA’S MILITARY (MAIN CAMPUS)

Date/time: Nov. 10; 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., veterans resource fair; 3 p.m., veterans study room dedica-tion; 4 p.m., Army and Air Force ROTC pass and review

Location: 1 UTSA Circle

WISH FOR OUR HEROES RIDE TEXAS SAN ANTONIO EVENT

Date/time: Nov. 10, 2:30 p.m.Location: Toyota FieldJoin the San Antonio Spurs and

“Wish for Our Heroes” Riders for a welcome party to San Antonio and to be on site to see a few wishes granted to military heroes. Twenty-four riders and a convoy of support staff travel from Wichita

Falls, Texas, to Corpus Christi, Texas, in the span of fi ve days, covering just over 500 miles. The event begins Nov. 7 and conclude Nov. 11. RIDE TEXAS began in 2011 and has successfully taken a unifi ed team across the state each year since. The event is led by wounded heroes and the pur-pose of the team is to assist our wounded heroes in completing this journey. Each day is fi lled with single day events such as meet and greets, parades, and dinners. These single day events are used to not only meet the community but to raise funds for our Military members and to grant wishes.

A&M UNIVERSITY-SAN ANTONIO CELEBRATE AMERICA’S MILITARY

Date/time: Nov. 11, 8:30 a.m.Location: Patriots’ Casa,

Texas A&M-San Antonio, One University Way

Texas A&M University-San Antonio will honor service mem-bers with a fl ag raising along with a wreath-laying ceremony on Veterans Day at the Patriots’ Casa. This event is free and open to the public.

MOMENT OF SILENCE ANDNATIONAL ROLL CALL TEXAS A&M UNIVERSITY-SAN ANTONIO

Date/time: Nov. 11, 9 a.m.Location: Patriots’ Casa,

Texas A&M-San Antonio, One University Way

Texas A&M University-San

Antonio will honor service mem-bers with a moment of silence and National Roll Call on Veterans Day at the Patriots’ Casa. This event is free and open to the public.

FORT SAM HOUSTON NATIONAL CEMETERY VETERANS DAY CEREMONY

Date/time: Nov. 11, 9:30 a.m.Location: Fort Sam Houston

National Cemetery, 1520 Harry Wurzbach Road

Music prelude begins at 9:30 a.m. with ceremony at 10 a.m. Guest speaker is Allen B. Clark Jr., West Point graduate and Vietnam veteran.

BEXAR COUNTY BUFFALO SOLDIERS COMMEMORATIVE CEREMONY

Date/time: Nov. 11, 1:30 p.m.Location: San Antonio National

Cemetery, 517 Paso Hondo St.Comprised of former slaves,

freedmen and Black Civil War veterans, the historic Buffalo Soldiers persevered through diffi -cult conditions to become some of the most elite and most decorated units in the U.S. Army. The annual Bexar County Buffalo Soldiers Commemorative Ceremony at the San Antonio National Cemetery honors these past heroes with a keynote speaker, the reading of a memorial list, military honors and taps and a benediction.

Speaker is Rear Adm. Rebecca McCormick-Boyle, commander, Navy Medicine Education and Training Command.

SAN ANTONIO SPURS VETERANS APPRECIATION NIGHT

Date/time: Nov. 11, 7:30 p.m.Location: AT&T Center,

One AT&T Center ParkwayThe San Antonio Spurs host

the Detroit Pistons with tip-off at 7:30 p.m. All military and friends of CAM can access this special offer by going to http://spursgroups.com/2016veteransday and using the OFFER CODE: MILITARY. Tickets purchased through this offer will receive a special military-themed T-shirt at the game. Instructions on where to pick up T-shirt will be emailed to the address provided at the checkout 48 hours prior to the game. Children 24 months and younger get in free.

U.S. MILITARY VETERANS PARADE AND WREATH LAYING AT THE ALAMO

Date/time: Nov. 12, 10 a.m. wreath laying, parade at noon

Location: Alamo PlazaThe U.S. Military Veterans

Parade Association presents the annual Veterans Parade in down-town San Antonio, during the San Antonio Chamber of Commerce’s Celebrate America’s Military Week. Representatives from each branch of the military services and special guests speak briefl y then carry wreaths to the entrance of the Alamo in recognition of the nation’s and Texas veterans. Line the downtown streets and wave your American fl ag and show your pride as veterans past and pres-ent are honored. For more parade information, visit http://www.usmvpa.com/index-PARADE_DATE.html. Honorary parade marshall is World War II Navy veteran Susano Ortiz and grand marshalls are District 26 Sen. Jose Menendez and District 19 Sen. Carlos Uresti.

ARMY WEST POINT TAILGATE PARTY

Date/time: Nov. 12, 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

Location: Alamo Beer Company, 202 Lamar St.

Pricing: Tailgate, free; barbecue plate and iced tea, $10; souvenir beer glass (beer discounted with purchase), $10; parking, $10; shuttle bus to/from game (one mile from tailgate to stadium), $6. Kids’ activities include free Fun Zone. For stadium game tickets, contact Army West Point at 845-938-2526. For more informa-tion and tailgate registration, visit https://secure.west-point.org/wpsst/armytailgate. For informa-tion regarding tailgate registra-

tion, email [email protected].

SEGS4VETS MOBILIZING AMERICA’S HEROES 5K RUN/WALK

Date/time: Nov. 13; registration, 7:30-8:30 a.m.; event, 9 a.m. to noon

Location: Freetail Tap Room, 2000 S. Presa St.

Segs4Vets (http://www.Segs4Vets.org) provides mobil-ity devices to military members severely injured while serving overseas in Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Segs4Vets started in 2005 and has since awarded over 1,400 mobility devices to men and women who have served our country. This event will feature a 5K run/walk beginning at the Freetail Tap Room, with an awards ceremony and door prizes afterwards. For more information, email at [email protected] or call 913-2563.

SAN ANTONIO RAMPAGE MILITARY FAMILY NIGHT

Date/time: Nov. 18, 7:30 p.m.Location: AT&T Center, One AT&T Center ParkwayThe San Antonio Rampage

hockey team hosts the Charlotte Checkers with the puck dropping at 7:30 p.m. All military and friends of CAM can access this special discounted ticket offer by going visiting http://spursgroups.com/novemberhockey and using the offer code MILITARY. Children 24 months and younger get in free.

THE STARS BEHIND THE STRIPESDate/time: Nov. 19, 6 p.m.Location: La Fontana Springs,

27618 Natural Bridge Caverns Road

A night of wining and dining presented by Association of the United States Army, myKlick and friends. This special dinner is to honor the spouses and signifi cant others who support the members of the armed forces. Visit myklick.city/myklick-10000strong-event-stars-behind-the-stripes/ for more information.

2016

Be Responsible!Seat Belts Save Lives!

Buckle Up And Wear Yours!


JBSA-Lackland Gate Hours

Valley Hi24 hours/inbound & outbound

Luke WestInbound & Outbound

6 a.m. to 2 p.m.Monday - FridayOutbound Only

2-5:30 p.m.Monday - Friday

Luke East 24 hours/inbound & outbound

Selfridge WestInbound & Outbound



Selfridge East Inbound & Outbound



Security Hill 6 a.m. to 6 p.m.Monday – Friday

Medina Training Annex24 hours/inbound & outbound

Growden 4 a.m. to 8 p.m. Daily

Closed on federal holidays


By J.D. LeviteAir Force Surgeon General Public Affairs

Bullying is not just a part of life that stops in the schoolyard; it can have con-sequences that stretch into adulthood and impact people for the rest of their lives.

According to the National Center for Education, 1 in 4 children will experi-ence bullying in their lives, and it comes in many forms: social, verbal, physical and even cyberbullying. But just be-cause it exists and has remained for a long time doesn’t mean it has to stay that way.

“We can prevent bullying,” said Maj. Joshua Duncan, pediatrician and chief resident for General Preventive Medicine Residency with Uniformed Services University of Health Sciences. “We can change these behaviors and we can prevent some of the conse-quences we see.”

Some of those consequences include an impact on healthy behavior for chil-dren who bully and children who get bullied. For both, there can be psycho-logical effects.

“A lot of people who have experi-enced bullying will develop mental health disorders like anxiety or depres-sion,” Duncan said. “Being bullied also puts them at risk for suicide as well as developing psychoses.”

Children who are bullied while in-volved in sports or other physical ac-tivities can be at a greater risk for de-veloping obesity, he added.

“This can be a form of social bul-lying where they’re the last person picked on the team or nobody wants to include them,” he said. “That causes them to withdraw. They tend to avoid those kinds of experiences. They tend to avoid physical activity because

they’ve been bullied.”Children who bully can develop

many of the same mental health issues and they are more prone to engage in certain activities like substance abuse or exhibit criminal behavior as they age. They also can continue abusive relationships later on in life, Duncan added.

For this reason, Duncan said, it’s im-portant for adults – including parents, teachers and other authority fi gures – to learn to recognize the signs associ-ated with bullying. Children tend not to report bullying because they want to be independent and don’t want to be judged by their peers.

Some of the signs for children who are being bullied include unexplained injuries, psychosomatic symptoms like stomach aches or headaches, diffi culty sleeping, and bed-wetting episodes. These children can be withdrawn and refuse to participate in social activities or sports. Some of them may even run away or attempt to injure themselves.

“These signs aren’t always specifi c to bullying,” Duncan said. “But cases where any of those symptoms are pres-ent should raise a fl ag for not just par-ents, but also primary care providers and teachers, too.”

There are three things Duncan recommends for countering bullying: ignore, stand up and get help.

The fi rst step stems from the fact that bullying is often one person trying to create or take advantage of a real or per-ceived power imbalance. Often ignoringa bully’s advances removes the power he’s trying to wield.

“That doesn’t always work,” Duncan said. “In that case, I would encourage children to stand up both fi guratively and literally. Standing up tall and look-ing the bully in the eye levels the playing

fi eld of the power imbalance.” He said parents are encouraged to rehearse fi rm statements with their children so they have something defi nitive to say.

The last step is getting help, and that means fi nding other people to be on your team.

“One of the best ways to prevent bul-lying is by roping in bystanders. By en-couraging your children to build strong relationships with other kids, they’re going to have friends who are going to stand up for them. It’s going to equalize that power imbalance,” he said.

For Airmen whose children might be getting bullied or doing the bully-ing, there are several things they can do to break that cycle. The fi rst and most important step is to recognize the signs of bullying mentioned above. After that, parents can take action by engaging with the school. Most schools have anti-bullying policies with staff that are trained on how to intervene.

“Your child has a right to attend school in a safe environment that’s also

supportive,” Duncan said. “That’s really what most schools want for your child. So, I’d engage with the schools early on when you know your child is being bullied.”

Parents can also talk to their pediatrician.

“Pediatricians have specifi c training on how to address this and they have some tools they can provide you,” he said. “Additionally, because we know there can be health consequences of bullying, they can also further evalu-ate these children who are being bul-lied or bullying other children to see if any treatment is indicated.”

There are several resources available on bullying. The fi rst place to start is with the school and local governments because both should have anti-bullying policies in place that are worth know-ing. Http://BullyPolice.org is a watchdog group that lists state policies on com-batting and preventing bullying.

Another resource is http://www.Stop-bullying.gov.

Break the cycle of bullying

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Movie Line: 671-3985 or view schedules at: https://www.shopmyexchange.com/reel-time-theatres/Program Note:Locate the Day of the Week and Read across for specific show times.We have one movie screen, one movie per show time. Doors open 30 minutes prior to each show time.

FRIDAY THROUGH THURSDAYFriday • 6 p.m. The Magnifi cent Seven (PG-13)Saturday • Noon Studio Appreciation Advance Screening – Free Admission – (PG-13) Tickets available at your local Exchange Food Court. Seating open to non-ticket holders 30 minutes prior to showtime.) • 3 p.m. The Magnifi cent Seven (PG-13) • 6 p.m. Miss Perigrine’s Home for Peculiar

Children (3D) (PG-13)Sunday • Noon The Magnifi cent Seven (PG-13) • 3 p.m. Studio Appreciation Advance Screening – Free Admission – Not Rated Tickets available at your local Exchange Food Court. Seating open to non-ticket holders 30 minutes prior to showtimeThursday • 4 p.m. The Magnifi cent Seven (PG-13)


Congratulations to the following 72 Airmen for being selected as honor graduates among the 722 Air Force basic military trainees who graduate Oct. 28:

320th Training Squadron–Flight 719Menelik Alexis Austin Brewer Jonathan Cornelius Benjamin Pettus –Flight 720Logan Christensen Andrew Collier Timothy Cormier Jonathan Ensley Colten Keenan Joshua Meyer Kyle Simon Jackson Winum –Flight 721Jordan Coomber Bryan Roy Jay Tucker –Flight 722Hannah Eastland Madison Foote Karalicia Kennedy Angela Massa Amanda Mulvany Adrienne Rogers Natalie Stone Alexis Weitnauer

321st Training Squadron–Flight 727Ryan Cleary Michael Tew –Flight 728Kyle Caccamesi Matthew Dunaway Anthony Lewis –Flight 729William Boyle David Butler Ricardo Dominguez Luis Hernandez Edward Johnson Adam Niemann Xavier Peggins –Flight 730Kayla McClain Jennifer Meda

323rd Training Squadron–Flight 715Sebastian Capola Bryan Colucci Daniel Farrell Luke Mercurio –Flight 717Conner Adams Alejandro Anderson Samuel Bartolotto Jacob Keiter Casey Larkin Hector Silva –Flight 718Chevonne Charmant Alyssa Moreno

324th Training Squadron–Flight 723Caleb Cuneio Ronald Holden Caleb Langford Luis Maldonado Omar Marcof Joshua Stuempert Logan Vish –Flight 724Dylan Barrilleaux Clayton Hoskins Andrew Kievlan Nicholas Licata –Flight 725Kyle Aubin Derek Hess Jared Mallette Matthew McClure Tyler McKee Kaleb Petersen Tyler Santos Dylan Schaeffer –Flight 726Kendal Carpenter Maria Garcia Daniela Khilkevich Sara Willett

Top BMT Airman Conner Adams323rd TRS, Flight 717

Most Physically Fit–Female AirmenAngela Massa 320th TRS, Flight 722 Da’ Necia Black 320th TRS, Flight 722 Consuelo Sanchez 323rd TRS, Flight 718 Gabriella Bourke 323rd TRS, Flight 718 –Male AirmenSpencer Mckay 323rd TRS, Flight 715 Logan Grove 323rd TRS, Flight 717 Colten Keenan 320th TRS, Flight 720 Deion Curry 320th TRS, Flight 720

–Female Flights324th TRS, Flight 726 323rd TRS, Flight 718 320th TRS, Flight 722 321st TRS, Flight 730–Male Flights324th TRS, Flight 724 324th TRS, Flight 723 320th TRS, Flight 720 324th TRS, Flight 725 321st TRS, Flight 728 320th TRS, Flight 719 320th TRS, Flight 721 323rd TRS, Flight 715 321st TRS, Flight 729 323rd TRS, Flight 717 321st TRS, Flight 727 323rd TRS, Fligth 716

Top Academic Flights320th TRS, Flight 722 321st TRS, Flight 729 320th TRS, Flight 720 323rd TRS, Flight 715 323rd TRS, Flight 717 321st TRS, Flight 728 321st TRS, Flight 727 324th TRS, Flight 723 324th TRS, Flight 725 320th TRS, Flight 721 323rd TRS, Flight 716 320th TRS, Flight 719 321st TRS, Flight 730 323rd TRS, Flight 718 324th TRS, Flight 726 324th TRS, Flight 724

By Senior Airman Kyle E. Gese82nd Training Wing Public AffairsSheppard Air Force Base, Texas

About one in eight women and one in 1,000 men will develop breast cancer in their lifetime, according to the U.S. breast cancer statistics at http://www.breastcancer.org.

“I tell people when it comes to cancer, there’s no definitive gender,” said Master Sgt. Nicole McKinstry, 82nd Dental Squadron clinical flight chief and breast cancer sur-vivor. “Don’t assume breast cancer is only for females, men get it too. We all need to be proactive in the fight against cancer because it’s an ‘everybody’ issue.”

While the risk factor for men is significantly lower than women, it’s still a concern for everyone.

Both boys and girls begin devel-oping the same breast tissue, at an early age, according to http://www.cancer.org. The difference is dur-ing puberty when women begin pro-ducing more hormones that cause the breasts to grow, increasing the amount of tissue, inevitably making them a better candidate for breast-feeding. This makes it less common to fi nd breast cancer in men, but still possible.

“The key to fighting breast cancer isn’t always in living a healthy life-style. Some of it has to do with ge-netics,” said Maj. Anastasia McKoy, 82nd Medical Operations Squadron women’s health clinic flight com-mander. “Ultimately, the best thing to do is to be proactive in checking yourself for any unusual lumps, dis-charge, or chronic pain. Early detec-tion is the best way to fight cancer should it form.”

While the Air Force has expert medical teams to aid in the dis-covery, treatment and recovery of cancer, it's not the only entity that can provide support to Airmen and families who suffer from this disease. One such resource is the Military & Family Readiness Center, which helped send McKinstry’s mother on a grant to Holloman Air Force Base, N. M., where she was stationed at the time she was bat-tling breast cancer. Her command-er also authorized her to be with family for several months to re-ceive resident care and be near her

primary support. “There are survivors and early de-

tection will save your life,” McKinstry said. “You have to be a strong advo-cate for yourself and err on the side of caution. If you suspect something might be wrong, get it checked out. The Air Force has so many programs to help patients who’ve been diag-nosed with cancer and they helped me tremendously.”

Despite the challenging circum-stances, McKinstry was able to overcome and beat her cancer and rejoin the Air Force. She now advo-cates for breast cancer awareness and supports Airmen and fami-lies everywhere who are currently battling the disease.

“When I completed chemothera-py, they sent us a bill over the nine months of treatment and it was $895,000,” she said. “The Air Force paid for every dime. It was hum-bling for me and I was so grateful to receive the care I did through the military. I remember looking at my bill and thinking, ‘who has this kind of money?’ I would never have been able to afford it without the services and support from the Air Force.”

If you would like to explore a free resource about breast cancer, visit http://www.brightpink.org or text “Pink” to 59227 to receive text mes-sage health reminders to do your checks each month.

Breast cancer: It’s not just a girl thing

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SEAT BELTS SAVE LIVES! BUCKLE UP AND WEAR YOURS!

TALESPINNER October 28, 2016 community

Air Force Aid Society 671-3722Airman & Family Readiness Center 671-3722Airman’s Attic 671-1780American Red Cross 844-4225Base Post Offi ce 671-1058Bowling Center 671-2271DEERS 800-538-9552Exceptional Family Member Program 671-3722Family Child Care 671-3376Legal Offi ce 671-3362Library 671-3610Medical Appointment Line 916-9900MPF ID Cards 671-6006Outdoor Recreation 925-5532TRICARE Info 800-444-5445Thrift Shop 671-3608

Enlisted Spouses’ Club http://www.lacklandesc.orgForce Support Squadron http://www.lacklandfss.comLackland ISD http://www.lacklandisd.netOffi cers’ Spouses’ Club http://www.lacklandosc.orgJBSA Public website http://www.jbsa.milMy Air Force Life http://www.MyAirForceLife.com

JBSA-LACKLAND KEY FAMILY SUPPORT RESOURCES—PROTESTANT WORSHIP SERVICES

Freedom Chapel – Building 1528Contemporary Service Sun 9:30 a.m.

Religious Education Sun 11 a.m.

Gospel Service Sun 12:30 p.m.

Youth Ministry Mon 6 p.m.

—LITURGICAL SERVICEAirman Memorial Chapel – Building 5432 Sun 9:45 a.m

Religious Education Sun 10:45 a.m.

—CHURCH OF CHRISTPfi ngston – Building 6300 Sun 7:30 a.m. (Room 175)

—SEVENTH-DAY ADVENTISTGateway Chapel – Building 6300 Sat 12:30 p.m.

—CHRISTIAN SCIENCEPfi ngston – Building 6300 Sun 7:30 a.m. (Room 113)

—ORTHODOX CHRISTIANAirmen Memorial Chapel – Building 5432 Sun 8 a.m.

—PENTECOSTAL Religious Education Building – 6300 Sun 8 & 9:30 a.m. (Room. 112)

—WICCAPfi ngston – Building 6330 Sun 9 – 11 a.m. (Auditorium)

Freedom Chapel – Building 1528Open Circle 1st Tue 6 – 7 p.m.

—REFUGE STUDENT CENTERBuilding 9122 (Tech. Training & TDY Students) Wed 6 – 8 p.m.

Thu 6 – 8 p.m.

Fri 6 – 11 p.m.

Sat 12 – 9 p.m.

Sun 11 – 5 p.m.

—JEWISHAirmen Memorial Chapel – Building 5432Sabbath & Kiddush Fri 4:30 p.m.

Religious Education Sun 1:30 p.m.

—ROMAN CATHOLICFreedom Chapel – Building 1528Religious Education Sun 9 a.m.

Adult Religious Education Sun 9:15 – 10:15 a.m.

Mass Sat. 5:00 p.m. Sun 11 a.m.

Youth Ministry Sun 4 p.m.

Reconciliation Sat 4 – 4:45 p.m.

Note: Reconciliation(s) may be scheduled by appointment

—ISLAMICGlobal Ministry Center – Building 7452Jumu'ah Prayer Fri 1:30 p.m. – 2:30 p.m.

—BUDDHISTPfi ngston – Building 6330 Sun 10:45 a.m. (Room 175)

—HINDU WORSHIP Gateway Chapel – Building 6300 1st, 3rd and 5th Sat 2 – 4 p.m. (Room 13)

—ECKANKAR Gateway Chapel – Building 6300 1st, 3rd and 5th Sat 12:30 p.m.

—BAHA'IGateway Chapel – Building 6300 1st, 3rd and 5th Sun 11 a.m.

—THE CHURCH OF JESUS CHRIST OF LATTER-DAY SAINTSGateway Chapel – Building 6300Religious Education Tue 6:30 p.m.

LDS Service Sun 1 p.m.

—LUTHERAN CHURCH MISSOURI SYNODGateway Chapel – Building 6300 Every third Sun 3:30 p.m.

CHAPEL SERVICES

For more details, contact Freedom Chapel at 671-4208 or Gateway Chapel at 671-2911

FRIDAYHORRIFYING HAUNTED HOUSE

Come, if you dare, as Arnold Hall transforms into a haunted house. Enter at your own risk as the Lackland Performing Arts Group morphs into horrifying ghosts and ghastly goblins that will have you running scared. Kids must be age 10 or older with a guardian. The cost for this harrowing event is $8 per person and includes candy and refreshments. It will be 7-10 p.m. Friday and Saturday at the Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland Community Center.

CAMP GLADIATOR WORKOUT The Camp Gladiator program will

conduct a workout from 8-10 a.m. at the Warhawk Fitness Center Track al-lowing participants to exercise for 20 minutes at each of the four different stations with multiple CG trainers. Trainers will also provide tips on how to start or continue a healthy lifestyle. No sign up required.

MONDAYZOMBIE 5K FUN RUN/WALK

All zombies looking for a

challenge must come to the Gillum Fitness Center trails and participate in the annual Halloween-Zombie 5K Fun Run/Walk. Prizes will be award-ed to the top three fi nishers and the best zombie costume. Runners can sign up for the free race on the day of the event. Registration starts at 6:30 a.m. and race starts at 7:30 a.m. Contact the Fitness and Sports Offi ce at 671-2632 or 671-1632.

WEDNESDAYSTRESS DURING THE HOLIDAYS

Learn to identify and recognize signs and symptoms of stress, de-fi ne holiday expectations, review tips for practicing stress management techniques, and strategies to help guide children through the holidays with minimal stress. This workshop will be 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Nov. 2 at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, building 4600. Call the Military and Family Life counsel-ors at 540-5025 or 540-5030 for more information.

NOV. 4SINGLE PARENT SUPPORT GROUP

A brown bag forum for both long- and short-term single parents to connect, share helpful resources,

and ways to overcome challenges as a single parent. It will be 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Wilford Hall Surgical Ambulatory Center Annex, building 4600.

BUSINESS OWNERSHIP FOR VETERANS Attendees to this workshop will

receive the latest information about starting a small business before opening their doors. Learn how to write an effective business plan, perform market research, review tips on selecting a good location, time management and more. The Small Business Development Center will facilitate this workshop 1-4 p.m. at the Arnold Hall Community Center.

NOV. 7VOLUNTEER ADVISORY COUNCIL MEETING

Learn about volunteer opportuni-ties and programs at a quarterly meeting for agencies with volunteers to discuss current issues, share pro-gram plans, success and proposed events from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. at the Military & Family Readiness Center. Call 671-3722.

NOV. 8INVESTING FOR RETIREMENT

Attendees to this workshop will

review retirement expenses like housing, transportation, mainte-nance, hobbies, food and more to gain a better idea of what their retirement budget will look like. Discuss emergency savings, retire-ment options like traditional and Roth IRA’s, and employment after retirement. The Better Business Bureau will facilitate this workshop 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, building 4600. Call 671-3722 for more information.

NOV. 9 CREDIT BUILDING

Review what makes up a credit score and identifi es simple steps to strengthen it. The Air Force Federal Credit Union will facilitate this workshop 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, building 4600. Call 671-3722 for more information.

EMPLOYMENT WORKSHOP Attendees to the employment

workshop can review the federal employment process, resume writing techniques, interviewing skills and how to dress for success. This work-shop will be 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 19

and Nov. 9 at the Military & Family Readiness Center, building 1249. Participants need to bring a copy of their current resume. To register, call 671-3722.

INFORMATIONALBASKETBALL, CHEERLEADING REGISTRATION OPEN

Youth, ages 5-17, may register for basketball and cheerleading teams until Oct. 31. The cost is $50 for basketball and $45 for cheerleading per person. A copy of the shot record and a current physical is required at the time of registration. Practices begin Nov. 28 and games run from January to February. Vol-unteer coaches are also needed. For more information, call 671-2388.

REGISTRATION IS OPEN FOR THANKSGIVING WEEK CAMP

Don’t let the kids be bored! Youth Programs can keep them safe and entertained 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Nov. 21-24. Registration is open until Nov. 7. The cost varies by household income and School Age Care School Year paperwork must be completed and on fi le prior to registration. For more information, call 671-2388.

LOCAL BRIEFS


By Ashley PalaciosJBSA-Randolph Public Affairs

Emotional wellness, which often carries a negative stigma, encompasses a wide variety of skills such as a proactive, instead of a reactive, approach to life, the ability to remain calm while facing adversity, remain-ing nonjudgmental of others and yourself, and even being able to express your feelings in a healthy and assertive way.

“A common misconception of emotional health is that a person with emotional health is always happy or positive,” says Gina Ramirez, 359th Medical Group Mental Health Office outreach and resiliency coordinator.

“Life has its peaks and valleys. There is never a constant state of joy. It’s in our reactions to life that we discover who we truly are,” she said. “No one is perfect, but in practicing healthy behaviors we begin to move toward positive behavior.”

Another common misconception about emotional wellness is that it’s a weakness to seek out help.

“Seeking out help is actually a strength,” reassured Ramirez.

“The weakness is in lack of self-awareness. Military members may be concerned the mental health visit will go onto their record and affect their career,” she said. “Like a medical appointment, it does go into their record. However, the percentage of people whose ca-reers are negatively affected by mental health is slim.

“The negative impact comes from waiting to seek help and spiraling downward. This spiral is what ef-fects job performance, the mission and ultimately the active duty member’s career,” she added.

While there are several reasons people aren’t more proactive with their emotional well-being, Ramirez

believes the main reason may be getting caught in the “busyness” of life.

“We live in this constant tension between produc-tivity and wellbeing,” Ramirez said. “It’s easy to get caught up in taking care of the everyday tasks and putting ourselves last on the priority list. When we do that, we end up with an emotional bank that’s depleted. But when we put ourselves first on the list, we end up with an emotional bank that’s full.

“We’re then able to take care of those urgent tasks without feeling spent and able to build those vital relationships,” she said.

Understanding the mind-body-behavior connection is also critical to emotional well-being.

“What we think affects how we feel and how we feel in our body affects our behavior,” Ramirez advised. “Controlling our mind and feelings goes a long way in emotional health.

“Taking care of yourself touches on each domain of the Comprehensive Airman Fitness Model. If small,

positive steps in each domain can be taken before something becomes a major issue, it will make a huge impact in Airmen’s long-term emotional well-being,” she added.

Some signs that Airmen may need to seek help include difficulty in coping with the day-to-day, impulsive mood swings, excessive sadness or worry, thoughts of hurting oneself or others, and using food, alcohol or drugs to numb the pain.

Ramirez stressed the importance of Airmen getting involved with the events on base and taking a proac-tive approach to their emotional health.

“We all go through seasons and changes in life that take a greater toll on our emotional well-be-ing,” Ramirez continued, “such as a deployment, PCS (Permanent Change of Station, new job, birth of a new baby, and a death in the family. But there are several things Airmen can do to take a proactive ap-proach to their emotional well-being.”

Family Advocacy, Mental Health, Military & Family Readiness Center and the chaplain’s office are a few of the agencies across Joint Base San Antonio with resources to help Airmen maintain a healthy mind-body-behavior connection, she said.

“The 5Ks, Life Skills classes, theme months, and the workshops offered around base are all valuable resources Airmen and their families can take advan-tage of,” she added.

Highlighting the importance leadership plays in Airmen’s emotional well-being, Ramirez said, “Really getting to know your people and who they are is so important.

“When you know what your Airmen are going through, you can ask questions when something doesn’t seem right,” she said. “Also, encouraging your people to take care of themselves by allowing them to take PT time, creating an atmosphere where your people feel valued and respected is vital to helping your Airmen stay emotionally and physically fit for duty.”

To learn more about ways you can be proactive in your emotional well-being, contact the 359th MDG Mental Health Office at 652-2448.

Members are encouraged to stay fit-to-fight during National Emotional Wellness Month

Courtesy graphic


By Staff Sgt. Marissa Garner JBSA-Lackland Public Affairs

Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland hosts several unique training missions essential to providing the greatest Air Power the world has ever known.

As the home of the only Air Force basic military training, members the 502nd Logistic Readiness Squadron Clothing Issue Flight work diligently to ensure future members of the Air Force understand the importance of looking the part.

“I love my job, I don’t think there is a difficult part,” said Kia Tappin, lead supply technician for the female side of initial issue flight. “My favor-ite part is interacting with the trainees. We see them that first week they arrive to BMT just scared and unsure of the process because they’ve just left home for the first time for whatever reason to serve their country. Our goal is to ensure they leave here with properly fitting uniforms and shoes so all they have to worry about is completing training. The Air Force will give you everything you need.”

The initial clothing issue process is conducted during the first three to five days of training in what is known as “Zero Week” of basic training. The flight personnel issue all components of the Airman battle uniform and physical training uniforms dur-ing this first visit.

In a later visit, the service uniform, or blues, are issued and the trainees are finally given their nametapes for their uniform signifying they have made it halfway through basic training.

As one of the most important stops for the trainees in their mission to become Airmen, initial issue is where these future Airmen learn the proper fit of the uniform according to Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Appearance. What they learn in the 45 minutes they spend at the initial issue lays the groundwork for what they know and believe about the proper wear of the Air Force uniform, according to Vernalynne Carter, deputy flight chief for clothing flight.

“We have a no fail mission here,” said Carter, who is a former military training instructor. “From ensuring we have enough uniforms in stock to properly fitting trainees in their uniforms, it is ex-tremely important that we get it all right every time. The basic military training mission depends on it.”

With an office staffed by several veterans, includ-ing several former military training instructors, the fit of the trainees’ uniforms are heavily scrutinized before measurements are finalized, as to stay in compliance with the AFI and to ensure Airmen learn what right looks like from the beginning.

“In military training instructor school, they in-grain the proper wear of the uniform into you and that knowledge never really goes away,” Carter said. “Most of us can just glance at someone and see what is wrong or off very quickly. If these future Airmen grasp the importance of looking the part and paying attention to detail, it’s going to greatly help them in the future.”

Every Wednesday through Friday, with the excep-

tion of non-accession weeks, the flight personnel along with the Department of Defense contractors re-sponsible for proper alterations, distribute hundreds of uniforms to future Airmen. The service more than 50,000 trainees annually.

While most of the process is very routine to con-serve time in the training schedule, there are some instances that require the staff to step in, whether that is a few words of encouragement or extra help in determining their boot size.

“For some people, this is the first time they’re receiving so many things at once and during initial issue, they’ve only been here for about four days on average” said Tappin. “It can be overwhelming, so whatever I can do within the scope of my job to help them, I will do it. I’m a mother also, and I want them to be the most complete adult and Air-man they can be. They’re sacrificing for me, so I believe I owe them at least that.”

Adding a personal touch is also important for Sirinton Hickman, 502nd LRS initial issue flight quality assurance agent.

As a former seamstress responsible for alterations of Air Force uniforms since 1984, she became a civil service employee and has since become responsible

for ensuring service dress uniforms are properly fitted for future Airmen.

“I’ve always cared about clothes and how they make people look,” said Hickman. “My husband was in the Air Force and I sewed his uniforms and took pride in how they looked. I want the trainees to do the same, and feel and look good so people know the Air Force is something to be proud about.”

With more than 30 years of experience, Hickman uses her expert eye to determine when the hem is too low on a skirt and when the pants do not have that signature crease as they fall on the shoe. For her and the other members of the team, im-age is everything and they are dedicated to doing their part.

“This is their introduction to the uniform, and if they leave here just feeling like they can wear it any kind of way, that’s not setting them up for success, said Cecil Harris, lead supply technician for the male side of clothing issue. “We want them to leave confident, look put together and feel like they are ready to start training. The uniform is a large part of being in the Air Force and introduces that feeling of being a part of something larger than themselves.”

502nd LRS clothing issue flight sustains BMT mission

Photo by Staff Sgt. Marissa GarnerJamilla Crawford, 502nd Logistics Readiness Squadron Clothing Issue Flight quality assurance manager, helps ensure the proper fit of a service dress jacket on a trainee Oct. 21 at Joint Base San Antonio Lackland basic military training clothing issue. The Clothing Issue Flight provides all of the clothing and shoes for BMT trainees and ensures the proper fit of the uniforms according to Air Force Instruction 36-2903, Dress and Appearance.

October 28, 2016 TALESPINNER PAGE 17sportsTUESDAYS ARE THREE-4-FIVEGet three bowling games and shoes for $5 all day Tuesdays during October. Call 671-1234 for more information.

DALLAS COWBOYS PACKAGESPackages for Dallas Cowboys home games against the Philadelphia Eagles Sunday and Washington Redskins Nov. 24 are available at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland’s Information, Tickets and Travel. Packages include transportation to the game with a 400-level seat, tailgate party with buffet, autograph and photo opportunity with a Cowboys legend, hotel for one night, breakfast and more. Prices are posted on the ITT Facebook page. Call 671-3059.

UPCOMING

One of the best things about ICE is that people can let service providers know when they do a great job, not just for poor ser-vice. It takes fi ve min-utes or less to submit a comment at http://ice.disa.mil.

eligible for the Secretary of the Air Force-approved Turkey Assignment Incentive Pay.

Airmen may apply for TAIP at three points in time: prior to departing their losing station, within 30 days of arrival in Turkey, or during their date eligible for return overseas forecast and initial vulnerable to move list windows. The TAIP rate is $300 per month.

Airmen currently serving an unaccompanied tour of 12 or 15 months, who are within 30 days of arrival and agree to serve a total of 24 months in Turkey, will receive TAIP with a payment effective date based on when the Airman elects the incentive.

Airmen currently serving an unaccompanied tour of 12 or 15 months, who have been assigned in Turkey for more than 30 days, may elect TAIP if they extend their Date Eligible for Return from Overseas an additional 24 months past their current DEROS.

They will receive TAIP beginning the fi rst month of their 24-month extension.

Airmen that have a projected assignment to Turkey, but have not yet arrived, may request TAIP, and in turn, will serve a 24-month tour upon arrival in Turkey. They will receive TAIP beginning the date they arrive.

For eligibility criteria, application procedures and guidance on TAIP, visit http://www.myPers.mil.

NEWS IN BRIEF from Page 3

Photo and story by Jose T. Garza IIIJBSA-Lackland Public Affairs

The Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland Warhawks men’s varsity basketball head coach is looking to fi nd ways to get his players to step up and lead the team back to the heights it reached in the 2013-2014 season.

“I want to get the Warhawks men’s bas-ketball program back to where it used to be,” said Paul Caviel, 502nd Logistics Readiness Squadron transportation assistant.

Back in the 2013-2014 season the Warhawks won three tournaments, includ-ing the Joe Hall Tournament held annually here at JBSA-Lackland.

The Warhawks’ prospects for a prosper-ous season are currently looking low.

The team win/loss record is currently 1-7 in the Central U.S. Military Basketball League play.

Caviel scouted athletes throughout JBSA-Lackland who could help the team reach that level of success through try-outs back in September. Eighteen players were selected for the team, including three returning members.

He acknowledges the improvements the team has to make to turn around its season.

“There is going to be more communica-tions amongst the team,” he said. “Win or lose, the players have to have each other’s back.”

Veteran players are game to pilot the Warhawks back to prosperity.

The role of Senior Airman Thaddeus Alexander, 802nd Force Support Squadron force management technician

and third-year Warhawks player, is to educate his teammates on team plays, tim-

ing and cohesion.“We are here to win,” Alexander said.

“We have to be more physical and intense. Basketball is 90 percent mental and 10 percent talent. We have to adapt a mental state that we can compete against any team.”

Jonathan Botello, a U.S. Navy vet-eran who is in his second year with the Warhawks, brings motivation and experi-ence to the team. The fl ight to success starts with him and the other veteran players.

“We just have to keep grinding and playing hard as a team,” Botello said. “We have to trust each other, move the ball around and keep fi ghting as a team. As a leader, I have to continue to display positive attitude and show my teammates the right way to do things.”

Despite the team’s underachieving sea-son so far, the Warhawks encourages the JBSA community to continue supporting the team at games. The Warhawks’ next game is Nov. 19 at the Antioch Community Sports Complex, where they will compete against the Alamo City Aztecs, a semipro basketball team.

“Every time we put on the uniform, we represent the military community and play with pride,” Botello said. “We give 100 percent and every time we see fans in the stands it gives us an energy boost.”

“We are going to put on a good show for the community,” Caviel added. “It’s not going to get boring.

Caviel, in his inaugural season as the Warhawks head coach, previously coached the JBSA-Lackland Lady Warhawks basketball team.

Warhawks men’s basketball team struggles to aim high this season

Senior Airman Laundricus Salter, 25th Air Force executive administrator, (left) attempts to drive passt Airman 1st Class Claude Blue, 59th Medical Operations Squadron, during Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland Warhawks men’s varsity basketball practice Oct. 13 at the Chaparral Fitness Center. The Warhawks are looking to reach the level of success it attained during the 2013-2014 season.

FOSTER a PUPPY

Call 671-3686


By Jerry McCallJBSA-Fort Sam Houston Energy Manager

We hear a lot about “Energy Star” these days, but what does it really mean? It’s one of the Joint Base San Antonio energy policy re-quirements when choosing new or replacing old equipment and appli-ances, after all.

I decided to do a little research and fi nd out. The fi rst thing I did was search the Internet for “Energy Star” – profound, huh? Google came up with 917 million results with the fi rst non-commercial one being the Energy Star home page at http://www.energystar.gov.

This tells me that Energy Star “is a government-backed program helping businesses and individuals protect the environment through superior energy effi ciency.” That sounds logical.

Now I have several choices for more information: Find Energy Star Products, Energy Star Quali-fi ed, About Energy Star, Federal Tax Credits, Rebate Finder and Buildings and Plants.

Let’s look at “About Energy Star.” This contains information on how much money the program has saved us in home and business and how much it has protected the environment.

• I want to know more about what it means if a product has an

Energy Star label though, so I’m go-ing to check out the “Energy Star Qualifi ed” choice. Here I learn that the product has to meet the follow-ing “key guiding principles” to get the coveted label:

• Product categories must con-tribute signifi cant energy savings nationwide.

• Qualifi ed products must deliver the features and performance de-manded by consumers, in addition to increased energy effi ciency.

• If the qualifi ed product costs more than a conventional, less-effi cient counterpart, purchasers will recover their investment in in-creased energy effi ciency through utility bill savings, within a reason-able period of time.

• Energy effi ciency can be achieved through broadly avail-able, non-proprietary technologies offered by more than one manu-facturer.

• Product energy consumption and performance can be measured and verifi ed with testing.

• Labeling would effectively dif-

ferentiate products and be visible for purchasers.

Ok, we know what the criteria are for a product to get the label. Now let’s try an example. Say we want to purchase a new computer for the offi ce.

I go to “Find Energy Star Products” on the home page and I fi nd a categorized product listing, and under “Business & Government” and “Imaging Equipment” is a list of computers which can be down-loaded in several different formats depending on your interest.

Here’s an interesting tidbit I ran across while researching: If all com-puters sold in the U.S. met Energy Star requirements, the savings in en-ergy costs would grow to $1 billion each year, reducing greenhouse gas emissions equivalent to those from more than 1.4 million vehicles.

So the next time you buy equip-ment for the offi ce, remember that you are required to choose from the Energy Star approved listing. But it’s a good idea to check this list when buying appliances at home as well. Even if the purchase price appears a little higher than some other brands, you will save money over the long haul.

For more about energy conserva-tion, call the base energy managers at JBSA-Fort Sam Houston at 671-1537, JBSA-Randolph at 671-6468 and JBSA-Lackland at 671-0252.

Energy conservation: choose from the Energy Star approved listings

To advertise in the Talespinner,

call 250-2345 for classifi eds or contact

Michelle Bogue at 250-2052 for

retail ads

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