Nimitz Presents First Lt. Cmdr. Regina P. Mills Leadership Award

By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Renee Candelario, USS Nimitz Public Affairs

CORONADO, Calif. (NNS) -- The Navy distributed the first Lt. Cmdr. Regina Pearl Mills Leadership Award during an award ceremony at Naval Air Station North Island (NASNI) Aug. 9.

 More than 500 Sailors from the Aviation Boatswain's Mate (AB) community assembled on the flight deck of the aircraft carrier USS Nimitz (CVN 68) for the ceremony.

The award was presented to Aviation Boatswain's Mate (Handling) 2nd Class Saleema N. Massey.

"I'm excited," said Massey. "I didn't expect it. It's a very big thing for me. My heart is still racing. I was really close to Regina. I was here for both her tours on Nimitz and she did my last reenlistment. Having this award means a lot."

During the ceremony, Lt. Cmdr. Jeff Mill's, Regina's husband, addressed the crowd of AB's.

"A few weeks after my wife's death I was contacted by members of the Aviation Boatswain's Mate Association (ABMA) to discuss a way in which we can honor Regina's memory," said Mills. "The decision was made by the ABMA Board of Directors to create this award. I cannot thank the ABMA enough."

Mills added that the purpose of the award is to recognize the outstanding leadership in the AB community.

 Regina's daughter, Cherie Ayer, also attended the ceremony to assist in presenting the award.

"[The ceremony] was really touching for me," said Ayer. "I'm really glad the award went to Massey. She's a great person and she deserves it. I'm glad everyone was able to get together on Nimitz. There's a lot of history on this ship. I'm glad to be here."

Regina reported for her second tour aboard Nimitz in December 2009 to serve as the Navy's first female aircraft handling officer. She is known for her strength, determination and tremendous leadership during her tours, said Mills.

Regina was struck and killed by a vehicle when she stopped to assist others involved in a traffic collision in Gig Harbor, Wash., Jan. 23, 2012.

Nimitz recently arrived at NASNI after successful completion of Rim of the Pacific (RIMPAC) 2012.

Leadership Speakers Tout Community Partnerships

By Amaani Lyle

American Forces Press Service

MONTEREY, Calif.  – Leaders from each of the services shared their perspectives on how to maintain community ties in an era of efficiencies, stewardship and renewable energy pursuits at a conference here today.

Craig College, deputy assistant chief of staff, installation management; Rear Adm. Dixon Smith, Navy southwest region commander; Jim Holland, deputy for Air Force installation policy; and Dave Clifton, Marine Corps Installation Command deputy spoke at the installation leadership forum during the 2012 Association of Defense Communities Annual Conference.

College lauded initiatives such as The Community Covenant, an Army program designed to foster and sustain effective state and community partnerships with all services to improve the quality of life for soldiers and their families at both current and future duty stations.

“It’s this partnering relationship without the exchange of cash, without the exchange of contracts, that gives me some optimism as we look to things like municipal services … that we have already (a) framework of cooperation that will permit us to figure out how to bring (more) of those kinds of support groups,” College said.

Holland spoke about the community support the Air Force received through a partnership regarding the service’s recent decision to base the F-35 at Luke Air Force Base, Ariz. The partnership is important not only to the aircraft arrival in fiscal 2015, but also in December 2014 when the Air Force will make its next F-35 basing decision.

Air Force bases throughout the nation have seen local community partnership surges in ventures ranging from resorts to hotels and even to hyperbaric chambers, Holland said, but the aviation aspect is one of the larger pieces of the budget puzzle.

“For every dollar that a barrel of crude goes up, the aviation fuel bill goes up $600 million … so you can see why we watch this,” he said.

The volatility of the market is huge, Holland explained, stressing the urgency of the service looking to the commercial sector to help carry the load for alternative fuels.

Clifton shared Holland’s sentiment regarding budgetary tides. “The pace and volume of change is enormous right now,” he said. “For leadership to have clear priorities, we need to have a good idea about what we can do differently.”

Clifton said the Marine Corps has pushed efficiencies, paring where feasible and adding where needed, specifically with the addition of 22,000 Marines for war, land acquisitions at 29 Palms, Calif., and the in-sourcing of information technology and security forces assets.

Smith, whose command is headquartered in San Diego, acknowledged the vitality of the job market for military, contractors and retirees in his domain.

“One in four jobs in San Diego exists either because the individual is in the military, or a civilian employee of the Department of Defense or a contractor.”

“We cannot do anything within a stovepipe; we have to work with the community,” he said.

With just six months in the region, Dixon said, he already has been asked to join the board for Cleantech Group, a San Diego-based organization in collaboration with about 200 eco-centric companies to develop green solutions for business leaders in the military and private sectors.

“Our military forces and installations are phenomenal stewards of the environment,” Dixon said.

First sergeant position provides perspective

by Airman 1st Class Brooke P. Beers
18th Wing Public Affairs

8/1/2012 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan  -- The U.S. Air Force can easily be compared to a 5,000 piece jigsaw puzzle; it wouldn't be a whole picture if even one piece was missing.

Airmen can get absorbed into their individual jobs and easily forget about how other puzzle pieces are helping to hold them together.

"I've been a first sergeant for maintenance, security forces, the 31st Rescue Squadron and now (communications)," said Master Sgt. Sara Solecki, 18th Communications Squadron first sergeant. "All four squadrons are unique in their own way. They all contribute to the mission, but you don't get to see that from sitting in the clinic."

Solecki was a medic for 15 years and worked in the 18th Medical Group's Family Practice section before becoming a first sergeant.

"A medic's job is to take care of people, make them feel better and do what you can to help them with their situation," said Solecki. "But as you go higher up in ranks, the less you get to interact with the patients and you do more administrative things; you're away from the helping type of environment, which is what I liked."

Thankfully, Solecki had a first sergeant at the time that was adamant about being involved in the squadron and did everything to help everyone out. Solecki decided then that being a first sergeant would be the perfect way to be able to stay involved in helping people.

"In Airman Leadership School or NCO Academy you meet new people and learn about what they do, but you don't really get to experience it," she said. "It's neat to see the Air Force from different angles."

New first sergeants are not assigned to squadrons close to the career field they've come to know. They are taken out of their area of expertise for three years, with the possibility to extend for three more.

A first sergeant's job is to help resolve issues that could affect the readiness of enlisted members, prepare Airmen to deploy and award or discipline Airmen when needed.

"I like it when we give stripes out or when the Airmen in the squadron get awards," Solecki said about her favorite part of being a first sergeant. "It's nice when you have Airmen that have problems and you are able to step in and help to fix the situation."

A first sergeant is a special duty. To apply, Airman must at least be a master sergeant and submit a package. Some bases even have a shadow program for interested senior NCOs who can follow first sergeant for a period of time to see if it's something they would truly be interested in.

Solecki, winner of Kadena's First Sergeant of the Year award, says the job is all about team work.

"Yes, the award has my name on it, but it's a reflection of everything we all did. From the squadrons to the other first shirts. We solely cannot do everything, "she said. "Everything I did that was listed on the award package was not done by myself, but by the other first sergeants, undershirts and Airmen. It wasn't anything that I did, it was what we did."

Leading by example: Academy cadets develop leadership skills at BMT

by Mike Joseph
JBSA-Lackland Public Affairs

7/30/2012 - JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, Texas -- U.S. Air Force Academy cadets learned first-hand over the past seven weeks how military training instructors develop the Air Force's newest warrior Airmen in basic military training.

The 27 cadets in the Summer Leadership Program developed leadership skills by shadowing MTIs in seven BMT squadrons at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland.

The cadets from the academy's incoming junior class, along with two supervising seniors, arrived on base May 24 and departed Saturday after participating in key positions in the July 13 BMT graduation parade.

"The cadets followed the same steps as a student training to be a Military Training Instructor," said Staff Sgt. Corey Norris, 323rd Training Squadron NCO in charge, who oversaw the cadets during their stay in BMT.

"They shadowed MTIs to learn the leadership skills and the different leadership techniques it takes to mold future Airmen," he said. "The cadets did the same thing our NCOs do on a daily basis, and they will be able to draw from their experiences here in BMT when they lead basic cadet training next summer for the academy's incoming freshmen."

Norris said the Summer Leadership Program teaches the future Air Force officers how to become better leaders by understanding how future Airmen are developed in basic training.

"They will have a better understanding about the enlisted force and how MTIs mentor the trainees," he said. "They experienced what BMT is like for both the MTIs and the trainees.

Along with developing and enhancing their leadership skills, they also learned about character development."

Seniors Joshua Hall and Christina Beckett supervised their underclassmen counterparts. Both participated in the Summer Leadership Program last year as underclassmen, and gained a greater understanding of the program's future benefits.

"I've learned a lot more this year, especially about leadership and mentoring," Hall said. "Here, you're not worried about school or athletics. You're only concerned about the military side. This summer has better prepared us for our first duty station."

Beckett agreed with her classmate.

"This is totally different from last year," she said. "We're dealing with more people issues.

"We were in charge of 25 other people. This taught us how to work with them, how to handle their issues and be better mentors. It's been enlightening."

The focus and primary benefit of the program is for the cadets who shadowed MTIs and NCOs to pass on their training knowledge at the academy. It also exposed them to the importance of working with members of the enlisted corps.

"I've learned more in this program about leadership and mentoring in seven weeks than the three years I've been at the academy because of the roles," Hall said.

"We met with all the squadron commanders in an open forum, and had the opportunity to ask questions," he added. "What we learned from them will help us become better officers."

During their seven weeks at BMT, the cadets also worked on perfecting their military drill skills. The program's culminating event was July 13 when the cadets filled the key positions in the weekly BMT graduation parade.

Face of Defense: Reservist's Civilian Skills Benefit Unit Safety

By Army Spc. Phillip Scaringi
78th Training Division

FORT McCOY, Wis., Aug. 1, 2012 - The Army Reserve has a unique ability to integrate professional civilian skills that its citizen-soldiers have acquired and use them to assist the unit in completing its mission.

Army Spc. Ed Lewis prepares to monitor a training site at the 2012 Combat Support Training Exercise on Fort McCoy, Wis., July 30, 2012. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Michael McDevitt (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

Reservists who bring their civilian skills to the Army Reserve are known as "force multipliers." Reserve units see it as imperative to recognize civilian job skills and use them as effectively as possible.

Spc. Ed Lewis is an Army Reserve soldier from Orange, N.Y., who serves with G Company, 3rd Battalion, 78th Training Division, based out of Horseheads, N.Y.

 He is mobilized here to support the unit's Combat Support Training Exercise, one of the largest annual training exercises conducted by the Army Reserve. Lewis, a supply specialist in the Army Reserve, works as a volunteer emergency medical technician and assistant fire chief back home. These civilian job skills on safety procedures and first aid made him a premier candidate to become a task force safety officer during the exercise.

Safety officers ensure soldiers comply with safety standards. Lewis keeps a watchful eye on all aspects of the training; from M16 rifle ranges and convoy operations to troop movement around the various training areas. Lewis and his team inform and direct soldiers to key locations such as medical and hydration stations, and they educate units on best safety practices while training in the field.

The importance of safety is a focus of all people in uniform. Having soldiers like Lewis working in this key role, allow units to prepare for war while minimizing hazards, officials here said.

Agreement Bolsters Reservist, Veteran Employment Opportunities

WASHINGTON, Aug. 1, 2012 - Interior Secretary Ken Salazar and Army Reserve Chief Lt. Gen. Jeffrey W. Talley today signed an agreement to increase employment opportunities for reserve members and to facilitate connecting military families with America's outdoors, history and culture.

Under the agreement, the Army Reserve and the Interior Department will:
-- Seek joint programming opportunities to include employment opportunities;
-- Collaborate to provide developmental opportunities to both workforces;
-- Engage military families in local conservation projects; and
-- Expand recreational opportunities for community-based wounded warriors.

"America's veterans and reservists have the skills and the know-how that not only build the strength of the United States Army, but can also build the capabilities of the Department of the Interior to manage the natural and cultural resources of America," Salazar said. "This agreement answers President [Barack] Obama's call to increase employment opportunities for veterans, while helping Interior build a 21st century, highly skilled workforce that reflects the diversity of the United States, engages youth, and provides sustainable ways to conserve America's great outdoors."

The Army Reserve Employer Partnership Office will collaborate with the Interior Department to provide targeted recruitment opportunities in the communities where reserve soldiers live, and assist reserve soldiers to understand and compete in the federal hiring process, Talley said. "Our goal is to assist civilian employers to recognize and maximize the highly skilled and capable members of their community who also serve in the Army Reserve," he added.

The agreement encourages use of available options, such as noncompetitive hiring authorities, to fairly recruit, select and hire eligible Army Reserve soldiers, mindful of merit system principles, prohibited personnel practices and labor relations obligations.

All federal agencies and departments are establishing plans and goals to enhance recruitment of and promote employment opportunities for veterans. The Interior Department's strategy identifies a goal to establish programs and partnerships that foster an increased veteran understanding of the federal hiring process as well as opportunities at the department, officials said. The strategy also calls upon the department's human resource professionals and hiring managers to use local resources to develop an understanding of the capabilities veterans bring to the workforce and to find qualified veteran candidates.

Interior Department officials said implementing today's agreement will include:
-- Exploring ways to improve recruitment into mission-critical occupations by leveraging military experience and training in occupations such as those for engineers, technicians, law enforcement officers and administrators, and others;
-- Reaching Native American Army Reserve soldiers with opportunities that exist in their communities;
-- Engaging local land managers, such as those from the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service, with local reserve unit commanders to share information about the department and to learn more about military leadership and technical training, heightening the awareness of both organizations; and
-- Providing volunteer opportunities to families of deployed military reservists and participating in Yellow Ribbon reintegration events in nearby communities

O’Malley award nominations due Dec. 3 by Gloria Kwizera Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas – Nominations for the 2013 General and Mrs. Jerome F. O’Malley Award are due Dec. 3, Air Force Personnel Center officials announced. Named in honor of the late General Jerome F. O’Malley, the award recognizes the wing commander and spouse team whose contributions to the nation, the Air Force, and the local community best exemplify the highest ideas and positive leadership of a military couple in a key Air Force position. The award is based on contributions that occur between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2012. The military member must have served as a wing commander for at least six months during the award period and have at least two years retainability to be eligible. Each major command, field operating agency and direct reporting unit may only submit one nomination. Organizations and base-level personnel must contact their MAJCOM, FOA or DRU for applicable suspense dates and additional information regarding nomination procedures. Completed nomination packages are due sent to the Air Force Personnel Center by Dec. 3.

by Gloria Kwizera

Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas – Nominations for the 2013 General and Mrs. Jerome F. O’Malley Award are due Dec. 3, Air Force Personnel Center officials announced.

Named in honor of the late General Jerome F. O’Malley, the award recognizes the wing commander and spouse team whose contributions to the nation, the Air Force, and the local community best exemplify the highest ideas and positive leadership of a military couple in a key Air Force position.

The award is based on contributions that occur between Jan. 1 and Dec. 31, 2012. The military member must have served as a wing commander for at least six months during the award period and have at least two years retainability to be eligible. Each major command, field operating agency and direct reporting unit may only submit one nomination.

Organizations and base-level personnel must contact their MAJCOM, FOA or DRU for applicable suspense dates and additional information regarding nomination procedures.

Completed nomination packages are due sent to the Air Force Personnel Center by Dec. 3.

Vaught award nominations sought

by Gloria Kwizera

Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas – Air Force officials are accepting nominations for the 2013 General Wilma Vaught Visionary Leadership Award. 

Named in honor of Brig. Gen. Wilma Vaught, the award recognizes service members and civilians who have exhibited innovation, commitment and a selfless spirit of service to others while inspiring others and significantly improving the integration of and opportunities for women in the Air Force.

Officers, enlisted service members and civilians from any career field or occupational series are eligible.

The award is based on contributions that occur Jan. 1–Dec. 31, 2012.

Organizations and base-level personnel must contact their major command, field operating agency, direct reporting unit, or major command equivalent for applicable suspense dates and additional information regarding nomination procedures.

National Intertribal Youth Summit Brings Young Leaders Together

August 1st, 2012 Posted by Tracy Russo

The following post appears courtesy of Acting Assistant Attorney General of the Office of Justice Programs Mary Lou Leary

This week, I was privileged to meet with the more than 200 American Indian and Alaska Native youth and adult leaders from 53 tribal communities across the country at the 2012 National Intertribal Youth Summit. The conference will run through Aug. 2 at the 4-H Conference Center in Chevy Chase, Maryland, and at various locations in Washington, D.C. I was inspired by the enthusiasm of these remarkable young people who are so strongly invested in the future of their communities, and so eager to help bring about positive change.

During the summit, the teens will discuss the critical issues facing them in Indian Country. The participants will have a chance to develop their leadership skills and engage in interactive discussions with tribal elders and leaders, youth advocates, and field experts on cultural values and community-based solutions to these pressing issues. They will talk about their concerns with officials from Congress and the White House, and from the Departments of Justice, Interior, Health and Human Services and Education. And while they are here they will tour our city’s monuments and visit the Capitol and the White House.

The Justice Department launched the Youth Summit initiative to promote long-term improvement in public safety in tribal communities. The Department was responding to requests from tribal leaders for the development of culturally appropriate prevention, treatment and reentry programs for tribal youth and families. The Summit provides an important opportunity for the Department to ask the young people themselves how they perceive the problems and what they recommend in formulating solutions.

6th CMSAF: Lead people instead of trying to manage them

by Senior Airman Benjamin Stratton
92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

7/31/2012 - FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- Retired Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force James McCoy visited Fairchild Air Force Base, Wash., July 27 to be the guest speaker for the senior NCO induction ceremony.

While at Fairchild, McCoy spoke at an enlisted all-call and toured the base talking with Airmen on many important subjects in particular, the chief focused on effective leadership and education.

"My philosophy has always been to lead people instead of trying to manage them," he said. "Be brief, be bright and be gone."

As a first sergeant, Master Sgt. Michael Roberts said he was excited to hear the chief holds professional military education with high regards as he also focuses on education as he mentors young Airmen in his group.

"One of the key messages I took away from Chief McCoy is that professional military education is key to developing our Airmen," the 92nd Operations Group first sergeant said. "If we want to continue to be the greatest enlisted force, we need to fight to keep our PME schools alive."

McCoy retired from active duty in November 1981 with more than 30 years of service. He still tours the country speaking with Airmen of all ranks offering helpful and insightful advice.

"Take care of your people," he said. "And for our younger Airmen, listen to those appointed over you -- you may just learn something."

The chief said he couldn't have been more impressed with the mission focus at Team Fairchild.

"It delights me to no end," McCoy said. "It gives me a great sense of pride and accomplishment to see how successful our service has become and to see the high quality of men and women serving our country today."

When asked if he'd serve again, he exclaimed, "You bet your life I'd serve again!"

But jokingly he added, "I don't think they'd take me now."

National Guard senior leaders to host Outstanding Soldiers and Airmen of the Year banquet

by Army National Guard Sgt. Darron Salzer
National Guard Bureau

7/31/2012 - ARLINGTON, Va. (7/30/12) -- Senior leaders from the National Guard will host the 2012 Outstanding Soldiers and Airmen of the Year banquet, scheduled for 5:30 p.m. August 24 at the Sheraton Pentagon City Hotel.

"The National Guard Bureau is excited to host a banquet in honor of our outstanding Soldiers and Airmen from this year," said Chief Master Sgt. Denise Jelinski-Hall, senior enlisted leader of the National Guard Bureau.

The banquet is held each year in honor of the top Soldiers and Airmen from both the Army and Air National Guard.

This year's Army National Guard honorees are:

Army National Guard Soldier of the Year: TBD

Army National Guard Noncommissioned officer of the Year: TBD

Army National Guard Recruiter of the Year:
· Sgt. 1st Class Craig Wester, Arizona Army National Guard

Army National Guard Best Ranger Team Top Placers:
· Staff Sgt. Matthew Madiar, Illinois Army National Guard
· Sgt. 1st Class Zachery Phillips, Oregon Army National Guard
· Cpt. Robert Killian, Colorado Army National Guard
· 1st Lt. Nicholas Plocar, Wisconsin Army National Guard

The top Soldier and noncommissioned officer of the year for the Army Guard will be determined during the Army National Guard's Best Warrior Competition at Fort Benning, Ga. July 30 - Aug. 3.

Army Command Sgt. Maj. Richard Burch, command sergeant major of the Army National Guard - who is en route to the Best Warrior Competition - said, "As the command sergeant major of the Army National Guard, I am looking forward to honoring our top Soldiers and noncommissioned officers from each of the regions around the U.S.

"They will soon be competing at the Army National Guard's Best Warrior Competition down at Fort Benning to see who among them is the best of the best - but, really, they are all the best and have worked hard to prove that to themselves and the Army National Guard," Burch said.

The Air National Guard honorees for this year are:

Air National Guard Senior Noncommissioned Officer of the Year:
· Senior Master Sgt. Luke W. Thompson, 125th Special Tactics Squadron, Oregon
Air National Guard

Air National Guard Noncommissioned Officer of the Year:
· Tech. Sgt. Jacob S. Curtis, 126th Air Refueling Wing, Illinois Air National Guard

Air National Guard Airman of the Year:
· Senior Airman Michael D. McCaffrey, 116th Air Refueling Wing, Washington
Air National Guard

Air National Guard First Sergeant of the Year:
· Master Sgt. Fred W. Hudgins Jr., 161st Air Refueling Wing, Arizona Air
National Guard

Air National Guard Honor Guard Program Manager of the Year:
· Master Sergeant Jeffrey L. Lamarche, Eastern Air Defense Sector, New York
Air National Guard

Air National Guard Honor Guard Member of the Year:
· Staff Sgt. Carrie M. Kline, 122nd Fighter Wing, Indiana Air National Guard

"We celebrate these six Outstanding Airmen who represent the 91,000 amazing ANG enlisted warriors," said Chief Master Sgt. Christopher Muncy, the command chief master sergeant of the Air National Guard. "I wish we could honor all our Guard Soldiers and Airmen like we do these lucky few. They all should be the toast of every town, village, and city in America."

Those lucky few will most certainly be the toast of the District when they are recognized for all of their hard work to rise to the top of their respective services.

"The choice of who will represent the Army and the Air National Guard is never easy, however, individuals who will be honored in August in our nation's capital are truly America's finest Citizen-Warriors, and I very much look forward to meeting each of them," Jelinski-Hall said.

Face of Defense: Coma Survivor Works to Improve Others' Lives

By Army Spc. Jamie Philbrook
1st Theater Sustainment Command

FORT BRAGG, N.C., July 31, 2012 - Army Sgt. Merrell Lowe went to a doctor for what he thought was a minor issue, but his next memory was waking up from a coma.

Army Sgt. Merrell Lowe stops to catch his breath between exercises. On his own time, he conducts daily fitness classes that he developed to help other soldiers. U.S. Army photo by Spc. Jamie Philbrook (Click photo for screen-resolution image);high-resolution image available.

"I woke up to the beeping noises of the heart monitor. When I opened my eyes, I saw my company commander looking down at me asking if I was OK," said Lowe, an automated logistical specialist with 1st Theater Sustainment Command. "I remember thinking to myself, 'Why is he at my house?' I was completely unaware that I had just spent the past week in a coma. The last thing I remembered was going to the doctor for a cramp in my leg."

In 2010, Lowe found himself consumed with a demanding job and long hours that left little time for anything else. In a few short months, lack of proper nutrition and fitness put his health in danger and his life at risk. His blood sugar spiked to more than 10 times higher than normal, causing a diabetic coma.

"I was diagnosed with Type 2 diabetes and rhabdomyolysis," Lowe explained. Rhabdomyolysis is a condition in which the muscle fibers break down, releasing myoglobin into the bloodstream.

"After waking up from that state, I came to the conclusion that I would not be back in the hospital again," Lowe said. "From that point on, I said, 'This is it'. Once I got out of there, the healthy eating [and] the training started immediately."

After struggling to meet the Army's physical fitness and weight standards, Lowe took matters into his own hands. He created a system that worked. Later, he found success implementing his system to help other soldiers with their fitness.

"I 'guinea pigged' myself," he said. "I went out and did exercises to see if I would improve. I started focusing on eating, exercising and praying so I could get back to helping soldiers."

That was more than two years ago. Now, Lowe can be found helping others who are struggling with weight, fitness and nutrition.

While physical fitness is a staple of everyday military life, some soldiers need a little extra help in that department. Whether it is to improve Army Physical Fitness Test scores, to get back in shape after having a baby, or to recover from an injury, the command's soldiers seek out Lowe.

During the duty day, Lowe, the operations noncommissioned officer in charge, can be found in the orderly room of the 1st TSC Headquarters and Headquarters Company. However, while most soldiers are enjoying their lunches or are home with their families after the duty day, Lowe is at various facilities on and off post, helping others get to where they need and strive to be.

When Army Sgt. 1st Class Mary Upshaw found out about an upcoming duty assignment, she knew she needed to take her physical fitness to the next level. She went straight to Lowe for that additional support.

"I am about to go to a new and challenging job as an advanced individual training platoon sergeant," Upshaw said. "I knew with [the AIT soldiers] being so young that I was going to have the extra challenge of keeping up with them."

Upshaw rapidly noticed drastic improvements, not only in her physical capabilities, but also in her overall health.

"I am no longer sluggish in the morning," she said. "I am full of energy. I can run further and faster, and the weight loss has been phenomenal."

Noting that he had to work through a rough period with his health, weight and physical fitness, Lowe said he encourages others who may be having some of the same struggles to join him during his workout sessions.

"You are going to get maximum results," he said. "I am out here doing it with you. I may laugh and joke, but I am hurting just like you." Lowe said he uses humor to cover up the pain he endures.

"No one helped me, so I want to help others," he said. "I love helping people. It's who I am. It's my personality." Lowe also runs a two-week recovery program to ease injured soldiers back into physical training.

Upshaw is among many who are grateful for the time Lowe spends helping soldiers.
"I appreciate Sergeant Lowe," she said. "He makes time for anybody that needs that extra push. He is a great motivator."

Reservist earns chaplain assistant award

by Airman 1st Class Brooke P. Beers
18th Wing Public Affairs

7/30/2012 - KADENA AIR BASE, Japan -- A Citizen Airman, an award set aside for Air Force Reservists, is someone who can be excellent in all they do in their Air Force career and allow that excellence to pour into their civilian lives.

Staff Sgt. Rachel Barnes, winner of the 2011 Citizen Airman of the Year Award for a Reserve Chaplain Assistant, is a prime example of what being a Citizen Airman is all about.

Although she doesn't work full time, Barnes has still managed to have spent more than 120 hours on 216 services that uplifted 105,000 members all while completing 24 semester hours on the path of earning her aeronautics degree.

On top of her Air Force duties, Barnes is in the process of getting her pilot's license and is dedicating most of her time to being a first-time mom.

She says that being a Reservist allows her to be more flexible with her life and that it gives her the feeling of having the best of both worlds.

"It's a shock and an honor, but I am contributing this award to the team," said Barnes. "When the team wins, you're a part of that."

As a Reservist, working with a unit only one weekend a month and two weeks a year, can present challenges. Without that continuity of going to work every day, she faces the challenge of diving into a work environment that's swinging full force.

"Sometimes it's hard because I'll come in and they will have changed a process," she said "But everyone is so helpful."

AF selects 6 for DOD leadership program

by Debbie Gildea
Air Force Personnel Center Public Affairs

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-RANDOLPH, Texas – Six Air Force majors have been selected for the Department of Defense Executive Leadership Development Program, Air Force Personnel Center officials said.

The one-year program – which begins in October – is designed for highly-motivated leaders whose performance has indicated strong aptitude for success in senior management roles, said Lt. Col. Cotina Jenkins-Sellers, AFPC force development and developmental education branch chief.

Primary selectees are Majors Chandler Atwood, Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance Agency; Damen Forte, Air Mobility Command; and Phillip Shea, Air Force District of Washington.

Alternates are Majors Roger Bass, Air Force Space Command, and Joel Douglas and Brian Palmer, Air Force Global Strike Command.

Participants will function in a simulated environment where they focus on real-life situations that involve short deadlines and require thoughtful decision-making, Jenkins-Sellers explained.

“Candidates must be receptive to a unique training methodology, able to assume responsibility for their own learning, and be able to conceptualize and analyze problems effectively,” she said.

The course requires intense self-discipline and self-study, she explained. Military members remain in the current assignments throughout the program, with the exception of 95 days that are spent in training, briefings and trips to learning environments

Profile: AETC's 2011 NCO Instructor of the Year

by Dan Hawkins
82nd Training Wing Public Affairs

7/30/2012 - EGLIN AIR FORCE BASE, Fla. -- For Tech. Sgt. Ryan Tennyson, Air Education and Training Command's Non-Commissioned Officer Instructor of the Year for 2011, life as an Explosive Ordnance Disposal instructor couldn't get much better.

Whether it be teaching students at Naval School Explosive Ordnance Disposal at Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., or deploying downrange to help prosecute the global war on terrorism, it's the excitement of doing a job that matters drives Tennyson daily.

Assigned to the 366th Training Squadron Field Training Detachment 3 at Eglin, part of the 782nd Training Wing based at Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, Tennyson earned the annual award not only for his outstanding work educating Airmen, Soldiers, Sailors and Marines about improvised explosive devices at NAVSCOLEOD, but also for his deployment time as well.

Tennyson, who's been at NAVSCOLEOD for close to four years, deployed as part of Task Force Troy in Iraq during 2011, acting as the single point of contact within the task force as liaison officer for IED's.

Being an EOD technician is thrilling on many different levels, but the relationships built within the EOD community is what keeps many technicians going through the tough times, both at home station and in the deployed environment.

"The brotherhood we share, that's what I love best about being in EOD," Tennyson said. "It starts right here in tech training and its carried on out to the field and downrange. It's a very tight-knit family."

Being in a position to mentor the newest generation of EOD operators is a satisfying component of being an instructor.

"Showing these students the right way to go about your job and Air Force career is great," Tennyson said. "I work hard every day to make sure they (students) are learning what they need to know to be competent and safe technicians."

Tennyson's work ethic and ability to pass his knowledge on to his students in an extremely technical career field has not gone unnoticed.

"Ryan brings his 'A' game to the training environment every day," said Lt. Col. Jerry Sanchez, 366th TRS Detachment 3 commander. "You can't ask for a better role model for our students."

One of the best things about being an instructor was the chance to spend more time at home with his own family.

"It's not that we don't work long hours here," Tennyson said. "But spending time with my family is my number one priority when I'm not working and I'm grateful this tour at NAVSCOLEOD gave me a little extra time with them."

Headed to Spangdahlem Air Base in Germany and the 52nd Civil Engineering Squadron after he completes his tour as an instructor in the fall, Tennyson could not be more excited to get back out to the field.

"I've had a great time here," he said. "But working out in the field and getting the chance to perform the real-world mission is something we all live to do."

The 782nd Training Group conducts technical training in telecommunications, aircraft systems, avionics, civil engineering, fuels and vehicle operations for more than 13,000 students annually.

Leadership: FBI Citizens’ Academy

The Portland Division is holding one Citizens’ Academy in 2012 (see schedule). The Citizens’ Academy is designed to bring together a diverse group of business and community leaders to learn about the FBI’s work in Oregon and around the world. There are six evening sessions and one weekday session. Participants are required to attend all sessions and to complete a background investigation prior to admittance. After graduation, participants have the opportunity to join the Oregon FBI Citizens’ Academy Alumni Association and to continue the partnership with our office.

Due to high demand, the selection process is competitive and acceptance is not guaranteed. Application packets (pdf) are now being accepted for the 2012 class. Please complete the application and mail the packet to FBI Citizens’ Academy, P.O. Box 709, Portland, OR 97207; fax the packet to FBI Citizens’ Academy, (503) 552-5400; or scan the packet into a .pdf file and e-mail it to the Public Affairs Office. The application is in a fillable document format. Open the document, type in the required information, print it, and send it in one of the ways listed above. Applications are due no later than Friday, July 27, 2012.

Face of Defense: Young Marine Leads Others

By Marine Corps Cpl. Jonathan Wright

31st Marine Expeditionary Unit

SHOALWATER BAY, Australia, July 2, 2012 – He may barely be past his teen years, but Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Theodore Kavich, a fire team leader with the 31st Marine Expeditionary Unit here, is responsible for the management and care of three Marines in his squad.

Outside the Marine Corps, not many 20-year-olds bear the burden of leadership, especially in matters as serious as combat.

“I just got out of my teenage years, and here I am directing my Marines in things like response to enemy contact,” said Kavich, a native of Pasadena, Calif. “Having this responsibility at the age of 20 is not only an honor, but a welcomed challenge.”

Kavich grew up listening to battle stories told by his grandfather, a Marine Corps veteran of the Korean and Vietnam wars. Regaled with these tales, he entered adulthood knowing that if he joined the Corps, it would be as an infantryman.

“Joining the Marine Corps was something I always had in my mind, but I didn’t want to join fresh out of high school,” Kavich said. “I wanted to come in with a little experience.” So after graduating from high school at 17, he went to college for two years and gained some life experience. When he figured he had gone to college long enough and before he missed any opportunities, he enlisted at 19 years of age.

His first assignment, after infantry school, was to his current unit -- 2nd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division at Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton, Calif. Kavich’s potential for leadership was recognized immediately.

“When he first came to the unit, he took the initiative to help other Marines and get things done,” said squad leader Marine Corps Cpl. Moses Weaver. “For those reasons, I put him in the fire team leader position, and he caught right on. Whatever task I gave him, he took care of it right there.”

One year later, Kavich finds himself in Australia on his second deployment with the 31st MEU. He leads his fire team in preparation for an attack during Exercise Hamel 2012, the multi-national training evolution between the Marines of the 31st MEU and the Australian and New Zealand armies.

“That little time he spent between high school and joining the Marine Corps gave him a little time as an adult, which shows in how he leads us,” said Marine Corps Lance Cpl. Jonathan Munday, a member of Kavich’s fire team. “He’s not a leader that dictates; he works with us and listens to any ideas we may have and implements them into his plans if he thinks it’s necessary. We’re very confident following his lead.”

The Marine Corps places the responsibility of military leadership and expectations of sound judgment on young Marines. Kavich said, noting that was part of the attraction for him.

“You join the Marine Corps knowing there’s a near-guarantee you will be deployed,” he said. “That attracts the people who are up for the challenge, especially of becoming an infantryman, regardless of their age. They feel they are ready for whatever is to be expected of them.”

As for the future, Kavich said, he will see how the rest of his initial contract will play out. But those in his fire team say his leadership traits could take him far if he were to continue his service.

“When he gives an order, there’s no questioning it,” Munday said. “He knows what he’s doing, is confident in that decision and has our interests in mind when making it.” Some Marines need to lead for years to develop those traits, he added, but Kavich already grasps them.

Exercise Hamel 2012 is a certification exercise for the Australian army’s 1st Brigade. Marines are acting as the opposition force for the Australians, bringing a unique set of tactics to the training environment.

The 31st is the only continuously forward-deployed Marine expeditionary unit.