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Vol. 8, Issue 6 A Publication of the 144th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Office June 2017

JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii - Airmen and Soldiers of the California National Guard’s Medical Detachment responded to Hawaii’s call for help during Operation Kula Aloha.

Operation Kula Aloha was an exercise created to work on the integration and logistics between two National Guard medical units in FEMA Region IX. Even though the units have the same mission requirements, tasks are accomplished by individuals that don’t always speak the same “language.”

“We are learning how to work together, how our processes overlap

and what works and doesn’t work,” said Lt. Col. Nathaniel Duff, 154th Medical Detachment medical treatment officer. “The most valuable thing that we do here is to learn to work together as a team.”

The training scenario that brought the National Guard units from Hawaii and California together took place at Bellows Air Force Station in Waimanalo, HI May 4, 2017. After a simulated large scale hurricane devastated the island of Oahu, the Hawaiian homeland response force became overwhelmed and required assistance from their counter-parts in California. The 144th MedDet responded with 56 team members, two vehicles and two trailers packed

with the lifesaving equipment and supplies needed to perform the mission at hand. Upon arriving at Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, the California team unloaded and proceeded to a simulated collapsed factory and ammonia leak.

After an initial briefing of the situation, both medical detachments went to work to save lives. The first members to be deployed were the search and extraction teams. Their mission is to scour the immediate area and building wreckage to find people affected by the disaster. This could be anything from being incapacitated by the chemical leak to being trapped in the rubble from the collapsed building.

Once the wounded were extracted, they were then brought to the all hazard triage area where they were evaluated for treatment. After

being triaged, the wounded were then treated by a highly trained staff of military doctors, nurses and medics to stabilize and then transport.

144th Medical Detachment Answers Hawaii’s CallBy Senior Master Sgt. Chris Drudge, 144th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

As other team members observe, U.S. Air Force Maj. Benjamin Bonnes, 144th Medical Detachment 1 physician, instructs Lt. Col. Roxellen Auletto, 144th MedDet 1 nurse practitioner, on the proper technique for inserting a chest tube on a simulated victim during Operation Kula Aloha May 4, 2017. The operation is a FEMA Region IX Medical Collective Training Exercise scenario that involves the Hawaii and California National Guards’ Medical Detachments supporting one another after a large-scale hurricane. (Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Chris Drudge)

U.S. Airforce Airmen from the 154th Wing and 144th Fighter Wing unload support equipment in preparation for Operation Kula Aloha May 4, 2017. (Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Chris Drudge)

(cont. on pg 3)

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The 144th FW/CC’s Top Three priorities have one common theme – Readiness.

Whether we are to deploy at a moment’s notice for the warfight, to support our governor and communities in times of need, or do our 24/7/365 homeland defense Alert mission, we must all be ready and willing to go Fly, Fight and Win. Since declaring Fully Operational Capable (FOC) in the F-15C one year ago, our main focus in the 144th Operations Group has been on establishing and maintaining Combat Mission Readiness (CMR) in the Eagle. The main reason for that CMR focus is because the Air Force has become the smallest it has ever been in its 70-year history, and the nation has come to rely on us as an “Operational Reserve”.

But what does being part of an “Operational Reserve” really mean to us?

From the Air National Guard’s founding in September 1947 until our overwhelming coalition victory over Iraq during Desert Storm in February 1991, the ANG was part of the nation’s “Strategic Reserve.” Created just after WWII when a new world order was emerging between two main superpowers– the democratic United States and the communist Soviet Union – the

ANG was primarily postured for homeland defense and as a hedge against the risk of major theater war between these two great powers in Western Europe (i.e. the “Fulda Gap” scenario). In this capacity, the tempo of operations for the ANG was relatively static. Unforeseen military actions requiring surge operations such as Korea and Vietnam were primarily the responsibility of the Regular forces and the Draft – the involuntary conscription of able men 18 years of age and older into the Armed Forces. This model – static operations tempo for the ANG and surge operations for the Regular Air Force (RegAF) and draftees – was one of the main features of the Strategic Reserve.

Since 1991 as the USAF has become smaller and smaller, the ANG has evolved from a strategic to an “Operational Reserve”. With the maturation of the all-volunteer force (i.e. no draftees) and out of military necessity, the main warfighting function of the RegAF and ANG in a way, have swapped. The RegAF is now postured with a capacity and state of readiness required to deter/dissuade/win major theater wars against potential adversaries such as North Korea and China. Since the ANG is no longer relied upon as a strategic deterrent for major theater war, we are now primarily postured as a hedge against the risk of fighting … well … what, exactly?

The truth is we just don’t know. The world of the 21st Century has emerged geopolitically as not only the “Information Age” where communications, data and decisions are transmitted at the speed of light, but also as the “Age of Uncertainty.” Events can unfold before our old paradigms and strategies have time to react to them– think of the Russian annexation of Crimea, the emergence of ISIS in the Levant and China’s militarization of the South China Sea. If you have kept up with the news, “uncertain” would be a most appropriate word to describe what might be lasting hallmarks of

the nascent Trump Administration. During these times of confusion and strategic opacity, both state and non-state actors can turn world events “on a dime” – for instance consider the implications of North Korea test-launching nuclear-capable intercontinental ballistic missiles, or the next “WannaCry”-style cyber-attack that takes down parts of our nation’s power grid. What would be our response?

This concept of our nation being forced to react to unforeseen catastrophic events is nothing new. Think of our paradigms, strategic posture and military readiness in Hawaii on December 6th 1941, or of our foreign and domestic policy approach on September 10th, 2001. How prepared were we as a nation for the shocking events that immediately followed?

So, the question we should ask is not IF the next history-changing event will occur, but WHEN might it occur. And the reality is, in the Age of Uncertainty, we probably won’t be able to anticipate that either. Since we really cannot predict WHEN or WHERE we may be called, the one certainty that history has taught us is that we need to be READY NOW.

As Guard Warriors in service to our nation in 2017, we are postured and relied upon as the USAF’s Operational Reserve. We are the hedge against the risk of uncertainty. The combat capability of the 144th Fighter Wing WILL be called upon to serve the nation and our state, we just don’t know exactly WHEN or WHERE. Thus the 144th FW/CC’s Top Three Priorities addresses these new paradigms and challenges us to be ready for anything.

Are you?

The 144th Fighter Wing is Ready … Ready for What?By Col. Steven Early, 144th Operations Group Commander

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Upcoming Base Events

UEIJuly 2017

Sentry EagleJuly 2017

FERS Retirement class August 8 - 9 2017

The California and Hawaii medical teams worked seamlessly together through three shifts and dozens of simulated patients. Wounds from a bump on the head to severed limbs were treated. Both medical

detachments looked as though they had worked together for years.

“This is an exercise specifically looking at building our medical capabilities response to domestic operations,” said Lt. Col. James Faumuina, 154th Medical Detachment commander.

Faumuina added building on those medical capabilities

included search and extraction rescue operations, all hazard triage team and trauma treatment as well as health protection for the Soldiers and Airmen in the field.

When asked what the biggest obstacle that had to be overcome, logistics came to the top of the list. “The actual transportation of personnel and equipment proved to be the largest challenge by far,” said Lt. Col. Jordan Darnauer, 144th Medical Detachment commander.

Beyond getting the personnel and equipment to an isolated island in the middle of the Pacific, the exercise was designed to be more of a learning and training experience so the personnel involved got the most value out of everything that transpired throughout the week.

“The most important aspect of the entire process was to ensure that every Airman and Soldier involved has the skill set to save lives,” said Darnauer.

144th Medical Detachment (cont. from pg 1)

U.S. Air Force Maj. Lynda Hirata, 144th Medical Detachment 1, California Air National Guard, nurse, observes Airman 1st Class Prince Anyanwu, 144th MedDet 1, start an IV during Operation Kula Aloha May 5, 2017. (Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Chris Drudge)

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FRESNO AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Calif. — With cheers and applause, Airmen from the 144th Fighter Wing, along with friends and family gathered together to witness U.S. Air Force Chief Master Sgt. Cindy Downing (retired) receive the Legion of Merit award.

The Legion of Merit is awarded to members of the Armed Forces of the United States for exceptionally meritorious conduct in the performance of outstanding service to the United States. It is one of the highest awards given to members of the Armed Forces. The Secretary of the Air Force is the approval authority for Air Force award recipients.

U.S. Air Force Brigadier General Clay Garrison, California Air National Guard commander, presented the Legion of Merit award to Chief Downing during a ceremony held at the 144th Fighter Wing, May 7, 2017. Chief Downing is the first enlisted service member from the state of California to receive the award.

In his remarks Garrison said, “the Legion of Merit obviously isn’t just for anybody. She did the work. She

represented the Airmen of the state of California and the Airmen of the Air National Guard very well.”

Chief Downing served as State Command Chief for the California Air National Guard from January 24, 2013 to September 30, 2016 and she also served as the Region Seven representative on the National Guard Enlisted Field Advisory Council. Prior to that, Downing served as the Command Chief Master Sergeant for the 144th Fighter Wing.

Her efforts created and impacted numerous force development programs statewide and across the nation.

“Most of the programs that we have in place promoting leadership development in the state of California are a direct result of her efforts in the state and a direct result of her efforts at the (Field Advisory Council),” said Garrison.

U.S. Air Force Col. Reed Drake, 144th Fighter Wing commander, was thrilled to host the ceremony for Downing.

“When state leadership informed us that we would be hosting this great

event, we were excited,” said Drake. “As the 144th Fighter Wing, where she had served for most of her career, it was special for us.”

“She’s always gone where she’s needed. She’s always succeeded where she’s gone,” said Col. Mark Groves, 144th Mission Support Group commander. “It’s a testament to everything she does and her character. If there was any enlisted person who was well deserving of the award, it was definitely Chief Downing.”

“She was my mentor. I always looked up to her. I always asked her advise for both professional and personal issues,” said Senior Master Sgt. Lori Wilcox, 144th Comptroller Flight superintendent. “She was a great role model. She had a lot of passion for her Airmen, and you always knew she had your back.”

Wilcox worked under Chief Downing for over 15 years in the finance office at the 144th FW. She noted Chief Downing’s unique ability to speak to top leaders and Airmen at every level. “They all had respect for her, which can be a challenge, even for a top enlisted person.”

When asked about the award Downing said, “it’s amazing. I feel totally humbled and honored. It’s an award for every Airman that I’ve ever worked with and for.”

For Downing, servant leadership was the key. She always kept the big picture in mind and worked to serve the Airmen in the best way that she could.

“It is important to me that Airmen know retirement is a goal that is within reach. It is something that is out there, that all Airmen should strive for— to close the loop of their career,” said Downing. “Just focus on your job and the mission, and be a great Airman.”

First Federal Legion of Merit Awarded to California Enlisted AirmanBy 1st Lt. Jason Sanchez, 144th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Training (cont. from pg 1)

U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Clay Garrison, Commander, California Air National Guard, and Chief Master Sgt. (ret.) Cindy Downing hold the Legion of Merit medal citation Garrison presented to Downing, May 7, 2017, at the Fresno Air National Guard Base. (Air National Guard Photo by Tech. Sgt. Charles Vaughn).

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Below are the six points, with a short explanation of why each is important to making you stand out from the others in your peer group.

You will notice the lack of discussion about leadership, communication and PME. Those are all required, too. In fact, those basic requirements are mandatory to even be considered for promotion, so if you haven’t done your PME, or can’t lead Airmen, forget it. Once you master the basics, concentrate on the six points below to distinguish yourself among your peer group. Please review AFI 36-2618 (The Enlisted Force Structure) and AF Handbook 1 (The Airman Handbook).

1. Become a Technical Expert:Your group is your home base. It is how you are identified by all other members of the group. Whether you are assigned to the HQ/MSG/MXG/MDG or OPS group you will be viewed by your peers as that type of Airman. Others in your group will quickly learn how much they can depend on your knowledge and support at critical times. Your reputation as a great work-under-pressure Airman or your knowledge of the group procedures will precede you in all assignments. Are you the best in your group? When your peers and your superiors know that you are supremely competent in your career field you will stand out among the rest of the pack.

2. Volunteer:It takes so much more than showing up at 0730 on Saturday and staying until 1600 on Sunday to make the 144 FW the great wing that it is. Retirement ceremonies, credible awards packages, holiday parties, recruiting, deployments – none of these are part of your AFSC job. Yes, these and many more things are part of what makes a great wing fly high above the others. Do you have a role in making the 144 FW a great wing? Or do you merely put in your time? Volunteering puts you in the category of going “Above and Beyond” and gives your leadership the impression that you care deeply about the group to which you belong.

3. Be Dependable:UTAs are a busy time. Managing an award-winning 144 FW takes a lot of work. Your leadership team needs members that they can depend upon to take a project from concept to completion. Remember these tips: 1) If you get an assignment, seek your supervisor’s input and guidance to get started, 2) Keep them informed of your progress and 3) ask for feedback once you’re complete. If your supervisor winds up doing the work for you, then you haven’t been dependable. Ask yourself: When given a job, project, or assignment; do I get it done? Or does it fizzle out shortly after I’ve gotten started. As you get higher in the chain of command, it becomes much easier to see who is dependable. If you want to be promoted, your name must be on that list.

4. Participate:Again, this is entry level stuff. You have to be here, in the 144 FW, on UTAs if you expect to get promoted. At the 144 FW we do a lot more than just UTAs and annual tours. There are off-UTA leadership opportunities, conferences, nightshift duties, weekend coverage, and schools. Do you participate in these events, too? There are times in a guard member’s career when he/she will necessarily miss some UTAs. It happens to all of us. However, I am continually

surprised by guard members who miss a majority of UTAs during the year, or seem to be on the “continual reschedule program”, and feel they deserve to be promoted. At the 144 FW, you are recommended for promotion first by your immediate supervisor, then by a board that is composed of your peers and supervisors. You can’t demonstrate your skills, attitude, and military bearing when you are not among your peers and supervisors.

5. Possess Superior Military Bearing:When was the last time you checked your military bearing? Do you know how to treat a Chief Master Sergeant or an Officer? Do you look good or overweight in your uniform? Got all your patches on? Superior haircut? This is entry level stuff, folks. You’ve got to get this right just to play the game. But so often it gets overlooked. We are all books, and we all get judged by our covers, it’s simply human nature.

6. Display a Positive Attitude:It’s not always going to go your way. I promise you will suffer frustrations at times. You may have felt you were a shoe-in for promotion, or thought your medal package was a “done deal”. The experts tell us that the true test of a person is how they act during times of adversity. I have the privilege of being able to work with all of our members, in both good times and bad. Believe me, if you’re always complaining and bad-mouthing the organization, undermining leadership or displaying a bad attitude, you show me and the rest of the leadership team more about yourself than the thing about which you are upset. When you get let down, how do you react?

Well, there it is. Concentrating on these six points will help you stand out among your peers. You will be seen as “first among equals.” Doors marked “Opportunity” will start to open in front of you. From there, it’s up to you to walk through them.

Making Yourself Competitive for PromotionBy Cheif Master Sgt. Johnny G. Leal, 144th Logistics Readiness Squadron

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On February 11, 2017 the Senior Enlisted Council sponsored an Enlisted Town Hall meeting open to all

Wing personnel The following questions were asked during the Town Hall. At the Town Hall base leadership promised to research the questions and provide feedback on the outcome/answers to your questions.

• Question #1: Town Hall meetings should occur more often, Councils should consider holding one during the week so fulltime personnel can attend, fulltime personnel have different issues they would like to discuss.

Answer: The Senior Enlisted Council (SEC) would like to host an event for all personnel on Sunday of September UTA in the DFAC. During this event we will discuss these questions and provide updates from the last Town Hall as well as our 2018 plan, we will again open up the floor to a Q & A. SEC would also like to host an event for fulltime personnel on a Friday in September (TBD). We will work with MXG and OG to de-conflict flying times to facilitate maximum participation. This event would be a trial run to see if there is any value or need to separate Town Hall meetings into a fulltime and/or DSG event.POC Assigned: Master Sgt. Schiotis

• Question #2: Maintenance personnel are often unable to attend council meetings, town halls or other events on UTA weekends because of the flying schedule, can you include Maintenance schedules when planning these types of events?

Answer: Col. Drake contacted both Col. Kelly and Col. Early to ask the question; if a Town Hall or other event was scheduled would both Maintenance and Operations be willing to move the schedule around (i.e. schedule a one go day, etc). Both Commander’s agreed if scheduled far enough in advance they would be willing to schedule around the event.POC Assigned: Chief Master Sgt. Brown

• Question #3: Why doesn’t the Wing provide study groups for personnel working on Distance Learning (DL) courses like ALS or NCOA?

Answer: EPME Distance Learning courses are governed by Barnes Center Instruction (BCI) 36-2301v2, EPME Distance Learning dated 15 Feb 17 and Academic Affairs Handbooks 36-3, 36-14 and 36-15 which are provided at the time of enrollment. Group studies are permitted only under the strict guidelines outlined in the BCI and handbooks under ‘Test Study Rules of Engagement’. If you are currently enrolled in an EPME DL and would like to be involved in a study group, contact the 144 FW Base Education and Training Center or the 144 FW Command Chief.POC Assigned: Senior Master Sgt. Randell

• Question #4: Why doesn’t the Wing offer cultural language center testing? Having access to a list of active duty test facilities and schedules would be beneficial if testing could not

be offered on the installation.

Answer: This is a service the Wing has never offered, it takes some time to do the appropriate research to determine if we have the capability and what is required to actually facilitate the test and provide the appropriate credit in MilPDS. I will ensure there is an update at the next Town Hall in September.POC: Senior Master Sgt. Randell

• Question #5: Why isn’t there a base club? Several members indicated they would like a Social Club where they could enjoy having a drink in an environment that promotes camaraderie and interaction between all squadrons on the base.

Answer: The ANG is not able to have a Base Club or be part of the AF Club association. We can however apply to become a Dining Social Club (DSC), approving official is NGB. I have looked at the regulations and in my spare time formatting a draft copy of the by-laws and all other material to present to the Wing Commander for his approval. We may not have a DSC at this time, but that does not mean we cannot provide opportunities to gather, i.e. Thursday night football in the DFAC with refreshments for members who want to stay and watch Football during the season or provide space for member to gather after duty hours for post Drill discussions. An update will be provided at the next Town Hall. POC: Senior Master Sgt. Hernandez

• Question #6: Why isn’t there a basketball court in the track area? Other activities like volleyball, badminton along with other team sports were also suggested.

Answer: Basketball courts (as well as other activities mentioned) are authorized. The Health & Wellness Committee is meeting to discuss location and funding. The Sustainment Section will then task members under their Recreation Function to organize other unit competitive activities.POC: Chief Master Sgt. Duncan, Senior Master Sgt. Hernandez

• Question #7: Can the Wing move Family Day to an off base location?

Answer: A Wing Family Day Committee, with Ms. Dorene Vierra as the Chairman, will be formed to come up with viable options and locations to present to the Wing Commander for next year’s Family Day.POC: Chief Master Sgt. Duncan

• Question #8: Why is there not an AAFES (Army and Air Force Exchange Service) on base? Does the Wing have a contract for uniform alterations?

Answer: AAFES did perform a study a few years back and determined the expense would not be beneficial. We have not given up trying, we have since contacted AAFES again

Town Hall Q&A

(cont. on pg. 7)

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and scheduled a site visit in June, to look at the possibility of having an AAFES or vending on base.

AAFES does hold case lot sales at the Army National Guard, they provide the space and invite our Wing to participate.

The Wing does have a contract for uniform alterations with ARAMS Clothing Alterations in Fresno. Logistics Readiness Squadron, Military clothing section gives vouchers to those Airmen needing hemming or other alterations. POC: Chief Master Sgt. Duncan, Senior Master Sgt. Hernandez

• Question #9: DSG personnel are leaving the Wing because they have long wait times for BMT Courses. Is it possible to get members to BMT quicker even if it mean a break between BMT and Technical Training? Is it possible to allow more time for Airmen to spend in their respective units? Airmen are reporting burn out from long period of time in Student Flight.

Answer: There is no known evidence supporting this claim. Getting members to BMT and Technical School quicker is

above our level and rests with NGB and Active Duty Air Force. Both NGB and AD AF are aware of the issue and are working to reduce delays. NGB is in the driver’s seat when it comes to booking BMT. The training office only requests Phase I of Technical School. NGB books BMT and any subsequent phases of Technical Schools around that. It’s not the wait time for BMT that is causing the delays, it’s the wait time for Technical Schools. It’s also incumbent upon the member to complete all of their Security paperwork in the system, have it open and running favorably, so we are able to request Phase I schools earlier. As far as letting Airmen report to their projected units, I do not see much value in this beyond site visits and advance orientation. Having Airmen go to work centers when they are unable to do anything besides stand around or sweep/mop/take out trash is not value added, they are not qualified to do any AFSC-related training.POC: Chief Master Sgt. Duncan

We thank you for your participation and all of your great questions, we hope to see you at our next Town Hall in September.

Town Hall Q&A (cont. from pg. 6)

Preparing for Life’s SurprisesBy Milton Ames, CFP®

We devote much of our lives to making and living out our long-range plans. We go to school; have children; plant

gardens; and save for the future with the expectation that we will see the fruits of our efforts. However, often times while living out these plans we encounter surprises, very often pleasant ones.

Surprises are a part of what makes life interesting and worthwhile. Occasionally, some of life’s surprises bring bad news, even tragedy.Without a doubt, the better prepared you are to meet unexpected challenges, the quicker you will recover both financially and emotionally. Here are 10 tools that you can utilize to provide financial protection and greater peace of mind.

1. Emergency Fund—This is money set aside in a savings account to cover unplanned expenses such as major care repairs, emergency travel, or replacing

a large appliance. Plan to grow this account the equivalent of three to six months of living expenses in case you temporarily lose your income.

2. Auto Insurance—You purchase this insurance to a) cover legal liability resulting from owning and operating a car, and b) physical damage to your insured automobile.

3. Homeowner/Renter Insurance—Homeowner insurance typically covers your personal liability as well as the structure and contents of your house and out-buildings. Renter insurance usually covers personal property in a rented house or apartment and personal liability.

4. Umbrella Insurance—This insurance covers financial loss due to personal liability that exceeds the coverage offered through your other insurance policies such as auto or homeowner.

5. Life Insurance—Life Insurance is typically purchased by individuals who have dependents. When the person who is insured dies, the amount of the policy (death benefit) is distributed to the designated beneficiaries.

6. Health Insurance—This insurance helps you pay the costs of regular health care and protects you against the catastrophic health care costs that can result from treating serious illness and injuries.

7. Disability Insurance—This is a form of health insurance that will provide you periodic payments to partially replace income you lose due to illness, injury, or disease.

8. Long-Term Care Insurance—This insurance pays for your long-term care if, as the result of physical or mental disabilities, you can no longer accomplish the tasks of independent, everyday living.

9. Durable Power of Attorney—This is a legal document that gives direction as to whom you choose and trust to make your health care and financial decisions in the event you are temporarily or permanently unable to do so.

10. Will—A will is the first step in estate planning. It is a legal document that specifies how and to whom you would like to have your assets distributed at the time of your death. Every adult should have a will!

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144th Fighting Falcon Once Again Stands ProudBy Senior Master Sgt. Chris Drudge, 144th Fighter Wing, Public Affairs

Base Beautification ProjectsBy Staff Sgt. George Solis, 144th Fighter Wing, Public Affairs

ATWATER, Calif. -- When retired Col. Larry “Cal” McKoane flew aircraft 80-543, an F-16A Fighting Falcon, to the bone yard at Davis-Monthan Air Force Base in 1994, he never thought he’d see the jet again. 23 years later, he now stands beside this beautifully restored aircraft sitting on display at the Castle Air Museum in Atwater, Calif. during the dedication ceremony May 28, 2017.

Castle was first put on the list to receive an F-16 in 1992, but the F-16As weren’t released for museum duty until mid-2015. That’s when the USAF museum sent out notices to all interested parties. Castle had the fortitude to request and wait for an F-16 that flew at the 144th Fighter Wing.

According to Bill Emery, who retired from the 144th FW eight years ago, the close relationship between Castle and Fresno is the main reason they desired

the aircraft that the 194th Fighter Squadron flew more than 20 years earlier.

The Castle Air Museum was notified in February of 2016 that they were to receive the aircraft they wanted. It took more than three months of planning to actually get a crew of volunteers to go to Davis-Monthan AFB,

AZ. The jet traveled from the DM boneyard to the Pema County Air Museum. That’s when the restoration crew and volunteers from the 144th FW Detachment at March Air Reserve Base traveled down and disassembled the fighter jet into six pieces and transported it to Atwater, Calif.

Once the jet arrived at Castle, it only took the volunteers three weeks to re-assemble and prepare the jet for the arduous task of sanding and painting. After assembly, it took the volunteers just over three months to sand, prime and paint the fighting falcon.

Thanks to the efforts of Larry McKoane, Bill Emery, Carl Knoch, the volunteers from Detachment 1 at March ARB, Jameson Harvesting, Ralph Robledo, Jeff Heyer and the entire Castle Air Museum Restoration Team, the 144th Fighter Wing’s F-16A Fighting Falcon now sits proudly on display for all to see.

FRESNO AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Calif. -- The Fresno Air National Guard Base is getting a facelift and not just for the aesthetics. The reason for these projects are for more practical and financial reasons.

“Because of the drought in California, the state had enforced water restrictions,” said Senior Airman Mark Beninga, 144th Civil Engineer Squadron base beautification project manager. “The base needed to cut back on water usage so by designing the rockscaping around the base with drought tolerant plants and trees the base is cutting back 75% of its

water usage in those areas.”

The 144th CES has completed a couple of projects so far this year with several more in the planning and design stages.

Beninga says, “CES will be doing some more rockscaping in selected areas, adding pavers in selected areas, repairing sidewalks and building a retaining wall.” Beninga added CES also plans on moving some of the static display planes from the Legacy Air Park to a couple of different locations around the base.

The projects completed so far, took about 90 days to finish at a cost of around $380,000. The 144th CES expects the remaining beautification projects slated for this year to take about 90 days to design, plan, and perform the work with the cost coming in around $40,000.

U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Raymond Gipaya, a structural craftsman with the 144th Civil Engineering Squadron, California Air National Guard, lines up the concrete forms where “Old Leroy” an F-86 fighter jet formerly flown at the 144th Fighter Wing will be dispayed as part of the base beautification process May 6, 2017. (Air National Guard photo by Master Sgt. David J. Loeffler)

Retired Col. Larry McKoane speaks at the F-16A Fighting Falcon dedication ceremony at Castle Air Museum May 28, 2017 while Bill Emery and Joe Pruzzo look on in the background. The F-16A was last flown at the 144th Fighter Wing in 1994, when it was taken to Davis-Monthan AFB for decommissioning. (Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Chris Drudge)

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According to Tony Robbins, “The way we communication with others and with ourselves ultimately determines the quality of our lives.” In today’s complex environment the ability to communicate effectively is critical no matter where you work and live. We must know how to convey and receive messages face-to-face, as well as via email, phone, and through social media.

• Nonverbal Communication - Your eye contact, hand gestures, body language, and the tone of your voice all contribute to the message you convey to others. A friendly tone and a relaxed open stance will encourage others to speak openly with you. Also paying attention to other people’s nonverbal signals contributes to good communication.

• Listening – Take the time to practice active listening. Active listening requires you to pay close attention to what the other person is saying. It is difficult to communicate with someone who only cares about putting in his or her “two cents” and doesn’t take the time to actively listen. When another person is communicating

with you, ask clarifying questions and rephrase what the person says to ensure understanding. This practice goes a long way in promoting effective communication.

• Friendliness – A friendly tone sets the stage for open and honest interactions with you. It is important to be polite and nice in all your workplace communication. This is key with both face-to-face and written communication.

• Clarity and Concision – Try to get your message across in as few words as possible. Good communication means recognizing the appropriate information to communicate. You don’t want to say too little or too much. You want to speak directly and clearly in person, on the phone, or through email. Think about the message you want to communicate ahead of time and even bring some notes along to help you stay on point.

• Confidence – Conveying confidence communicates to others that you believe in what you are saying and that you will follow through with the message. Your confidence has a reciprocal effect that fosters other’s confidence in you and your message. Demonstrating confidence can happen through eye contact or using a friendly but firm tone. Of course, be mindful not to come across arrogant or aggressive. Don’t forget to engage in active listening as well.

1. Empathy – Effective communication conveys that you respect the other person even if you disagree with them. You can use phrases such as “I understand where

you are coming from” to show the other person that you are actively engaged in the conversation.

2. Open-Mindedness – Enter into a conversation with a flexible, open mind being willing to listen to another person’s point of view. A willingness to dialogue even when you disagree will foster honest and productive conversations.

3. Respect – Showing respect when you communicate with others promotes quality interactions. Simple actions like making eye contact and actively listening will demonstrate that you respect and value the communication. On the phone, stay focused on the conversation and avoid distractions. When you send an email take the time to proofread the message demonstrating that you value the conversation.

4. Choosing the Right Mode of Communication (in person, email, social media?) – An important communication skill is knowing the right form of communication to use in any given situation. Serious conversations are most often better in person. Consider the person you are communicating with. For example, a very busy supervisor will most likely appreciate quick messaging via email for less serious matters.

Being intentional about developing and fostering good communication skills will foster a more meaningful connection and experience as you interact with others.

Good Communication Skills = A More Meaningful LifeBy Stephanie Grant, 144th Fighter Wing Director of Psychological Health

www.144fw.ang.af.mil10 10www.144fw.ang.af.mil

Wing Commander Command Chief Col. Reed Drake Chief Master Sgt. Linda Brown

Address:5323 E. McKinley Ave. Fresno, CA 93727-2199

559-454-5246 FAX: 559-453-5472

EMAIL: usaf.ca.144-fw.mbx.hq-public-affairs@mail.milWebsite:www.144fw.ang.af.mil/

Facebook:www.facebook.com/144thFighterWing

144TH FIGHTER WING

AFTERBURNER STAFF

This funded monthly newsletter is an authorized publication for members of the United States military services. Contents of this newsletter are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. Govt., Dept. of Defense, Dept. of the Air Force, the National Guard Bureau, or the 144th Fighter Wing.

This newsletter may use materials supplied by the Armed Forces Press Service, the Air Force News Service and the Air Combat Command News Service.

The editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the Public Affairs office, 144th Fighter Wing. Submissions are subject to editing. Full names, rank, titles and contact phone number must accompany all submissions.

Maj. Jennifer Piggott 1st Lt. Jason Sanchez Senior Master Sgt. Chris DrudgeChief of Public Affairs Public Affairs Officer Public Affairs Superintendent

Master Sgt. David Loeffler Staff Sgt. Christian M. Jadot Tech. Sgt. Charles VaughnPhotojournalist / Staff Writer Photojournalist / Staff Writer Photojournalist / Editor

Federal Mission - The 144th Fighter Wing is to provide Air Superiority in support of worldwide joint operations as well as Air Defense of the

United States. Additionally, the wing provides agile combat support, and intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance to combatant commanders around the globe. The Wing also provides a variety of homeland defense

capabilities to U.S. NORTHCOM.

State Mission - The 144th Fighter Wing provides a variety of Defense Support

of Civil Authorities (DSCA) capabilities to the Governor of California. Primary contributions include ready manpower, reconnaissance assets,

response to chemical, biological and radiological attacks, security, medical, civil engineering and command and control.

144FW Mission Statement

SECAF Message to AirmenAirmen,I am grateful for the freedoms we enjoy and it will be an honor to serve with you as Secretary of the Air Force.

In every generation, able volunteers step forward to protect the rest of us.Highly skilled and willing to defend the nation at all costs, you and your families represent the best of what it means to be an American.

Under the guidance of Secretary of Defense Mattis and with the support of the Congress, we will restore the readiness of the force so that we can win any fight. Because our adversaries do not rest, we will cost-effectively modernize the force and drive innovation to bring new capabilities to the service of liberty.

Underpinning it all will be a commitment to our people - to the development of leaders to command the finest combat force in the world.

We will not take for granted American dominance in air and space power.

We will use every taxpayer dollar entrusted to us to train for it, equip forit, and fight for it.

I know each of you will do your duty. I will do my best to do the same.

Heather Wilson

U.S. Air Force Col. Steven Early, 144th Operations Group commander, presents the 194th Fighter Squadron guidon to U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Daniel Wittmer during the squadron’s assumption of command ceremony held in the Fresno Air National Guard Base hangar May 7, 2017. (Air National Guard photo by Tech. Sgt. Charles Vaughn)

Top 3 Priorities By Col. Reed Drake, 144th Fighter Wing Commander

1. BE READY TO DEPLOY AT A MOMENT’S NOTICE.

All 144th Fighter Wing Airmen will be combat ready whenever the Combatant Commander calls or a

deployment tasking is assigned.

2. BE READY TO PERFORM OUR STATE MISSION.

All Airmen must be ready when the Governor calls and needs the support

of the 144th Fighter Wing.

3. CONTINUE ALERT OPERATIONS.

We have a 24/7/365 alert mission -- we must flawlessly continue to execute

that mission.