Tricare news available fast and easy at Media Center

Don't feel like waiting for the next newsletter to get all the latest Tricare news? Visit the new media center at www.tricare.mil/mediacenter for the hottest links to Tricare's social media and updates to what's happening with Tricare.The new media center makes it easier than ever for beneficiaries

Retiree dental coverage available for purchase

Good oral health is an important part of maintaining overall health and a military retiree's access to dental coverage doesn't end when they hang up their uniform. With the Tricare Retiree Dental Program, retired servicemembers can purchase affordable dental coverage for themselves and their

AFSOC hosts physical ability stamina test for special tactics Airmen

The Air Force Special Operations Training Center staff is scheduled to host a physical ability stamina test at 7:30 a.m. March 12 at the Special Tactics Training Squadron for applicants interested in joining the pararescue, combat control or special operations weather career fields.Applicants will

Bilateral training hones U.S., JASDF capabilities

U.S. and Japanese military aircraft joined to practice defending Okinawa from simulated enemies during joint bilateral training here Feb. 22 through 26. The training involved a variety of aircraft flying simulated hostile scenarios aimed at training personnel for joint planning and execution of

A1 annual award winners announced

The deputy chief of staff for manpower, personnel and services recently announced the 2009 award winners for the A1 community."The A1 community is ready, engaging and constantly leaning forward to support Airmen and taking care of their families," said Lt. Gen. Richard Newton. "While celebrating the

Military scientists study ionosphere

At a facility in a remote part of south-central Alaska, the largest radio transmitter on Earth sends high-frequency signals into the ionosphere to help scientists better understand the influence of charged particles on radio communications and satellite surveillance systems. Surprisingly, it also is

Photo essay: 'Yellow Bird' comes to life

Wright "B" Flyer "Yellow Bird" comes to life with the help volunteers from the Wright "B" Flyer Inc. Feb. 27, 2010 at Fort Sam Houston, Texas. They assembled two Flyers in San Antonio for the Centennial of Military Aviation event held March 2. View slideshow.

Joint project lifts economy, skills in Kirkuk

A joint project involving the 506th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron readiness management support engineers and a local contractor ishelping Iraqis rebuild their nation on the concepts of learning and earning. The various civil engineers are all involved in upgrading the base sanitary sewer

Day 24 of '30 Days Through Afghanistan'

The Web-based project, "30 Days Through Afghanistan," kicked off Feb. 8 and aims to bring the people, the mission and the experiences of the men and women assigned to the International Security Assistance Force to a worldwide audience through the eyes of Tech. Sgts. Nathan Gallahan and Kenneth

'Don't Ask, Don't Tell' review seeks broadest input

The Defense Department's review on the potential impact of repealing the ban on gays serving openly in the military will solicit input from troops of every service and rank -- as well as their families -- through surveys, focus groups and social media tools, the team heading up the review told

U.S., Thai servicemembers conduct personnel airdrop training

U.S. Airmen and Royal Thai Air Force members conducted personnel airdrop training from a C-17 Globemaster III as part of Cope Tiger 2010 here on March 3.More than 60 qualified jumpmasters completed three separate jumps near Bangkok, Thailand, as the first major activity of the Cope Tiger field

Air Force firefighters in Haiti dig through rubble, protect airfield resources

Twenty-six Air Force firefighters arrived in Haiti more than a month ago and still are protecting airfield resources alongside thousands of other international aid workers providing relief to the country.Since arriving, they've made significant contributions to providing safe airfield operations and

Defense secretary asks entire department to reinforce trust

Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates has called on every member of the Defense Department to play a personal role in creating a secure environment that will help to prevent more tragedies like the Nov. 5 shooting rampage that left 13 people dead at Fort Hood, Texas. Secretary Gates issued a memo March

C-130 low-cost, low-altitude combat airdrops now operational

A C-130 Hercules aircrew conducted a new method of airdrop that makes deliveries more accurate and flexible for resupply of small, mobile forces Feb. 6, in Afghanistan. The C-130 aircrew from Bagram Airfield, Afghanistan, performed the first-ever low-cost, low-altitude combat airdrop to re-supply

Iraqi elections, U.S. drawdown to proceed

Iraq's upcoming elections and the U.S. drawdown of troops there later this year will go on undeterred by the suicide bombings March 3 and previous attacks like it, Pentagon Press Secretary Geoff Morrell said here March 3. "Neither this attack nor any of the previous attempts to derail the electoral

Global Positioning System continues improvement initiative

Building on the January 2010 upgrade to the Global Positioning System ground control segment, Air Force Space Command engineers will be installing another software release primarily designed to support the pending mid-2010 launch of the first GPS IIF space vehicle. Engineers at the Global

B-2s arrive at Andersen

More than 240 Airmen from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo., arrived here in late February to support the deployment of B-2 Spirits as part of the continuous bomber presence here.The Airmen and aircraft replaced the servicemembers and the B-52 Stratofortresses deployed here from Barksdale AFB, La.

Exercise builds NATO partnerships at Ramstein

The latest U.S. Air Forces in Europe Silver Flag Exercise offered Airmen from Italy to England to participate in a week long contingency operations training exercise Feb. 21 through 28, here. The exercise opened the door for international partners, allowing members of the Croatian army to observe

U.S. Air Forces in Europe leader discusses future challenges

The U.S. Air Forces in Europe commander recognized the contributions of 86th Airlift Wing Airmen to the U.S. military, as well as to all of Europe during his visit here March 2.Though a frequent customer of many of the services the wing provides due to his residency here, Gen. Roger A. Brady's visit

Air Force Week in Photos

This week's photo highlights feature Airmen around the globe involved in activities supporting expeditionary operations and defending America. This weekly feature showcases the men and women of the Air Force.View slideshow.

Lockheed to speed development of F-35

Defense Department leaders and Lockheed Martin executives explained to international partners changes that have been made in the joint strike fighter program. Ashton B. Carter, the department's undersecretary for acquisition, technology and logistics, and Robert Stevens, the chief operating officer

Budget balances security, economics, Lynn tells Congress

The fiscal 2011 defense budget request includes modest but necessary spending increases in line with President Barack Obama's effort to balance national security with economic needs, the deputy defense secretary told Congress members March 4 here. The $708 billion request "reflects the

U.S., Luxembourg partnership supports U.S. troop surge in Afghanistan

As President Barack Obama's plan to plus up U.S. forces in Afghanistan goes into motion, members of the 86th Materiel Maintenance Squadron here are helping one of U.S. Air Force's in Europe's largest movement of war readiness materiel since Operation Desert Storm in 1991."The pure size of it alone

Incirlik members honor fallen defender

Friends, handlers and fellow military working dogs gathered Feb. 25 at a memorial service for a 39th Security Forces Squadron military working dog who died Jan. 10 due to health complications.Nine-year-old Ronnie was a member of the 39th SFS for eight years, and has served the wing and its

Airmen conduct community event in Thailand

Airmen from the U.S., Thailand and Singapore joined together to provide medical, dental and optometry care to local residents as part of Cope Tiger 2010 March 4 here. Cope Tiger is a multilateral aerial large force exercise aimed at improving interoperability and strengthening relationships with

Yokota Airmen participate in large-force exercise

Airmen and aircraft from the 374th Airlift Wing here participated in the Ryukyu Air Warrior exercise Feb. 22 at Kadena Air Base, Japan.The exercise was designed to enhance aircrew exposure to large force exercises, inter-flying with different aircraft, air-to-air counter tactics and defensive

Day 25 of '30 Days Through Afghanistan'

The Web-based project, "30 Days Through Afghanistan," kicked off Feb. 8 and aims to bring the people, the mission and the experiences of the men and women assigned to the International Security Assistance Force to a worldwide audience through the eyes of Tech. Sgts. Nathan Gallahan and Kenneth

'Dot Mil Docs' celebrates 100th episode

Dot Mil Docs, the Military Health System's official podcast, celebrates its 100th episode this week. Dot Mil Docs is a weekly audio podcast that features military medical professionals and other military health experts from across the DOD. The program upholds the Military Health System's commitment

Air Combat Command leader visits Davis-Monthan Airmen

The commander of Air Combat Command visited Davis-Monthan Air Force Base Feb. 23 and 24 to learn more about the base mission and thank the Airmen, civilians and family members for their service. With Davis-Monthan AFB's Airmen continuously deployed around the world, to include supporting relief

Missouri Air Guard C-130s, crews fly to Chile

Two Missouri Air National Guard C-130 Hercules transport aircraft with 47 crewmembers are en route March 5, to aid earthquake-ravaged Chile. 139th Airlift Wing officials sent the two aircraft, crews and maintenance support personnel from Puerto Rico, where they had been supporting U.S. Southern

Air Force leaders outline plans before Senate committee

Secretary of the Air Force Michael Donley and Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Norton Schwartz testified March 4 before the Senate Armed Services Committee to outline specifics about their $119.6 billion budget proposal for fiscal 2011."The last two decades of sustained operations have strained our

March 1 airpower summary

Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations March 4 according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.Air Operations in Afghanistan:Close-Air SupportSurkhabadAir Force B-1B Lancer and

Day 26 of '30 Days Through Afghanistan'

The Web-based project, "30 Days Through Afghanistan," kicked off Feb. 8 and aims to bring the people, the mission and the experiences of the men and women assigned to the International Security Assistance Force to a worldwide audience through the eyes of Tech. Sgts. Nathan Gallahan and Kenneth

March 2 airpower summary

Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations March 2 according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.Air Operations in Afghanistan:Close-Air SupportKabulAir Force F-15E Strike Eagle

Day 27 of '30 Days Through Afghanistan'

The Web-based project, "30 Days Through Afghanistan," kicked off Feb. 8 and aims to bring the people, the mission and the experiences of the men and women assigned to the International Security Assistance Force to a worldwide audience through the eyes of Tech. Sgts. Nathan Gallahan and Kenneth

March 3 airpower summary

Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations March 3 according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.Air Operations in Afghanistan:Close-Air SupportAsmarAir Force F-16C Fighting

March 4 airpower summary

Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations March 4 according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.Air Operations in Afghanistan:Close-Air Support SurkhabadAir Force B-1B Lancer and

'Today's Air Force' features Air Force joint responsibilities

In this edition of "Today's Air Force," Airmen all over the world are teaming up with joint and coalition partners for important training and humanitarian missions. Plus, watch a feature on how Airmen team up to help others after an attack. And, you'll see how Air Force fighter pilots are making the

AFMC leader visits Tinker, highlights civilian issues

The Air Force Materiel Command executive director called upon civilians to broaden their career paths, as a changing Air Force turns to more civilian leadership, during a visit that began Feb. 22, here. During the visit, Dr. Steven Butler had breakfast with the junior force council, spoke to

March 6 airpower summary

Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations March 6 according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.Air Operations in Afghanistan:Close-Air SupportTarin KowtAir Force A-10

Day 28 of '30 Days Through Afghanistan'

The Web-based project, "30 Days Through Afghanistan," kicked off Feb. 8 and aims to bring the people, the mission and the experiences of the men and women assigned to the International Security Assistance Force to a worldwide audience through the eyes of Tech. Sgts. Nathan Gallahan and Kenneth

Air Force officials set developmental education deadline

Officers have until April 5 and civilians have until April 26 to submit applications for consideration by the selection board for intermediate or senior developmental education in 2010.Officers apply using a Web-based application, while civilians submit a hard copy application to the Air Force

Bagram Airmen respond to aircraft emergency

Airmen assigned to the 455th Expeditionary Maintenance Group here were some of the first responders on the scene after an Airbus A300 crew performed an emergency landing March 1 here.The aircraft, contracted to DHL International, was carrying mail and cargo when an unsafe gear indicator alerted the

March 5 airpower summary

Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations March 5 according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.Air Operations in Afghanistan:Close-Air SupportGereshkCoalition aircrews provided

AAFES officials open first 'green' BX at Randolph

Army and Air Force Exchange Service officials unveiled its first-ever environmentally friendly base exchange to shoppers when it opened the doors of the new Randolph Air Force Base Exchange March 5.The new Randolph Air Force Base BX is AAFES' first exchange built to the environmental standards set

Sheppard security forces disarm Airman

Airmen from the 82nd Security Forces Squadron here disarmed a man at 9:20 p.m. March 7after they received a report of someone carrying a weapon near a building here.No shots were fired and no one was injured during the incident.The call came in at about 9:08 p.m. that a man with a weapon was walking

Airmen take flight at Cope Tiger

Flying operations for A-10 Thunderbolt II pilots participating in Cope Tiger 2010 kicked off with a four-ship training mission March 4, here.Cope Tiger is a multilateral, combined and joint command post and field training exercise involving the United States, Thailand and Singapore. This year's

American servicemembers help bring education to Afghan community

The American Provincial Reconstructive Team in Zabul and 451st Air Expeditionary Wing leaders joined the provincial governor and community leaders as they gathered for the ribbon-cutting ceremony Feb. 25 of the newly-built all-boys Sheik Mati High School and dormitory here. The 240-bed facility will

Beale Airmen 'Read Across America'

Airmen from the 9th Communications Squadron here joined in the nation's largest reading celebration March 2, at Arobga Elementary School, here. The Airmen interacted with schoolchildren as they read their favorite books during the National Education Association's Read across America week. The

Secretary Gates: Elections show Iraq's progress

The Iraqi election process shows how far the country has come, Defense Secretary Robert M. Gates said March 7 here.Secretary Gates received reports on the Iraqi election from Army Gen. Ray Odierno, the U.S. commander in the country. General Odierno had expected a high number of high-profile attacks

Air Force mortuary staff ensures dignity, honor for fallen

Under a deluge of rain, the 757 touched down here late at night, returning Army Staff Sgt. Michael David P. Cardenaz home. He had been killed just a few days before in an enemy attack in Afghanistan. With family and friends near, an Army carry team marched in slow, measured steps to the aircraft,

New Military Health System site makes information accessible

Military Health System officials have launched a new Web site that provides a single point of entry to military health news, information and resources. The site, Health.mil, is part of the Defense Department's continued commitment to make health information available and easy to find, officials

Select bases begin using new civilian application procedure

The planned Feb. 22 rollout of a civilian hiring test initiative activated on schedule, requiring current Air Force civilian employees to follow new procedures when applying for jobs at select bases. Air Force civilians applying for jobs at Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas; Osan Air Base, South

U.S. Air Force medics train fledgling Afghan medical corps

Airmen assigned to the 438th Air Expeditionary Advisory Squadron here are teaching Afghan soldiers at the Afghan National Army Air Corps Command Air Corps Medical Service Clinic the skills necessary to keep their soldiers on the battlefield. "The standards we are setting here are critical," said

Photo essay: Shaw aircrews train at Red Flag

Aircrews and F-16 Fighting Falcons from Shaw AFB, S.C., participate in Red Flag Feb. 23, 2010, at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev. Red Flag is a realistic combat training exercise involving the air forces of the United States and its allies. The exercise is conducted on the 15,000-square-mile Nevada Test

Air Force medics deploy to support Chilean medical efforts

An Air Force Expeditionary Medical Support team composed of more than 80 Airmen deployed to Chile March 8 from here to aid local medics in their response to victims of the 8.8 magnitude earthquake Feb. 27 in Chile.The Airmen from 13 different bases left Lackland Air Force Base aboard C-17

Airmen set to arrive in Chile, will begin relief efforts

An Air Force Expeditionary Medical Support team deployed from Lackland Air Force Base, Texas, is scheduled to arrive in Santiago, Chile, March 9 aboard three C-17 Globemaster aircraft, where it will assist citizens affected by an 8.8 magnitude earthquake that struck the nation Feb. 27.The team,

All-Iraqi effort during nation's election

The Iraqi air force flew an all-Iraqi effort in intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance for the first time in Iraq this week in support of an Iraqi election.Kirkuk Regional Air Base's Iraqi air force Squadron 3 launched six of their aircraft on the morning of March 5, during a surge flight

Airmen to train Iraqi air force college students

Airmen will teach the first Iraqi air force college pilot-training course beginning in March with Iraq's new T-6A trainer.The tandem-cockpit aircraft, that began arriving in Tikrit, Iraq, Dec. 16, is the platform Iraqi airmen will use to transform the college into a cornerstone of Iraqi air

Airmen have opportunity to give

Airmen now can contribute to relief operations for the Jan. 12 earthquake that struck Haiti that caused widespread death and destruction, according to Air Force and Office of Personnel Management officials.In a recently signed memorandum, OPM Director John Berry provided guidance to federal agencies

VA secretary seeks improved Agent Orange claims process

Veterans Affairs officials announced March 9 an aggressive new initiative to solicit private-sector input on a proposed fast-track Veterans' claims process for service-connected presumptive illnesses due to Agent Orange exposure during the Vietnam War. "This will be a new way of doing business and a

Day 29 of '30 Days Through Afghanistan'

The Web-based project, "30 Days Through Afghanistan," kicked off Feb. 8 and aims to bring the people, the mission and the experiences of the men and women assigned to the International Security Assistance Force to a worldwide audience through the eyes of Tech. Sgts. Nathan Gallahan and Kenneth

Fledgling eagles learn to fly

Twenty-four F-15E Strike Eagle pilots and weapon systems officers graduated the 333rd Fighter Squadron basic course during a ceremony March 6 at the Walnut Creek Country Club in Goldsboro, N.C. "The 'B-Course,' as it is affectionately known, is a nine-month program designed to mold novice pilots and

National leaders set to discuss Euro-NATO pilot training

Officials from the 80th Flying Training Wing's Euro-NATO Joint Jet Pilot Training program here will host the ENJJPT Steering Committee March 8 to12.  During this 59th meeting of the committee, program participants, including national leaders, plan to discuss issues and set policies. As the commander

24 cadets receive Academy's first UAS-RPA wings

Four junior and 20 sophomore U.S. Air Force Academy cadets received the first unmanned aerial systems-remotely piloted aircraft wings awarded in the school's 55-year history during a function at the Dean's Heritage House Feb. 25, here.  Lt. Gen. Mike Gould, the Academy superintendent and Brig. Gen.

U.S. South Korean militaries kick off joint exercise

American and South Korean military members kicked off Exercise Key Resolve/FOAL Eagle 10 March 8 and will train for 10 days here. The annual joint/combined command post and field training exercise is defense-oriented and designed to ensure the South Korean and U.S. alliance is prepared to defend

NFL players visit Bagram Airmen

Four National Football League players visited Bagram Airfield servicemembers March 5, as part of a USO tour of the U.S. Central Command area of operations.Mario Williams, a defensive end for the Houston Texans; Jason Whitten, a tight end for the Dallas Cowboys; Vernon Davis, a tight end for the San

Utah Air Guard mission in Chile changes from training to humanitarian

Four members of the Utah Air National Guard's 151st Air Refueling Wing based here had a rude awakening Feb. 27 when the 15th floor of their hotel in Santiago, Chile, started to shake. Deployed to Chile to provide flying and maintenance support to the Chilean air force on their new KC-135 "E" model

Single Airman Working Group opens support structure discussion

Air Force officials here established the Single Airman Working Group to evaluate and develop morale and support programs for its members as part of the Year of the Air Force Family.Officer and enlisted single Airmen representatives from each major command and subject-matter experts from several

Latest issue of Airman magazine available

In the latest issue of Airman magazine, the "Ghostwalkers," Airmen with a unique mission hone their skills for action outside the wire.Whether they are called to secure a captured airfield or provide force protection in a combat zone, these security forces warriors depend on each other. Intensive

Remnant of Lackland's past gets new home

The last of three remaining remnants from Lackland's World War II-era housing facilities, a military open-bay barracks, was moved to a site behind the History and Traditions Museum.The only basic military training dormitory left from the 1940s, Bldg. 6351 was loaded by a crane onto a flatbed trailer

U.S., Pakistan air forces conduct air refueling information exchange

Pilots and aircrews from the U.S. and Pakistan air forces participated in a joint aerial refueling information exchange as part of an on-going effort to enhance cooperation and develop the air refueling capabilities of both nations in early March at Pakistan air force base Chaklala.Pilots and

Photo essay: Kadena Airmen learn to 'survive'

More than 200 Airmen take part in the "Ability to Survive and Operate" course Feb. 24 through March 2 here.  Members of the 18th Munitions Squadron  trained to operate in an hostile environment covering mobility protective wear, post-attack reconnaissance sweeps, and unidentified explosive ordnance

Women pilots of World War II inspired generations

Under a clear blue sky, beneath the spires of the U.S. Air Force Memorial here, military aviators gathered March 9 here to pay homage to the achievements of the first women to fly military aircraft during World War II. The memorial service and wreath-laying ceremony, with a reception afterward, was

Day 30 of '30 Days Through Afghanistan'

The Web-based project, "30 Days Through Afghanistan," kicked off Feb. 8 and aims to bring the people, the mission and the experiences of the men and women assigned to the International Security Assistance Force to a worldwide audience through the eyes of Tech. Sgts. Nathan Gallahan and Kenneth

Officials emphasize importance of hiring disabled veterans

Federal officials are taking action to reverse years of decline in the percentage of people with disabilities in the federal workforce, speakers said at a March 5 training session held to prepare for a Federal Hiring Event for People and Veterans with Disabilities scheduled for April.The percentage

2009 Air Force safety awards announced

Officials at the Air Force Safety Center here have released the list of recipients of the Secretary of the Air Force, Chief of Staff and Chief of Safety Awards for 2009.  These awards, according to safety officials, exemplify the best of the Air Force safety teams and the hard work of the winners.

March 7 airpower summary

Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations March 07 according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.Air Operations in Afghanistan:Close-Air SupportAsmarAir Force F-15E Strike Eagle

March 8 airpower summary

Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations March 8 according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.Air Operations in Afghanistan:Close Air Support:Morghab An Air Force B-1B Lancer

March 9 airpower summary

Coalition airpower integrated with ground forces in Iraq and International Security Assistance Force troops in Afghanistan during operations March 9 according to Combined Air and Space Operations Center officials here.Air Operations in Afghanistan:Close Air SupportMusa Qala Air Force A-10

Trip to war region heightens general's resolve

The commander of the Air Force Materiel Command returned here recently from a trip to Southwest Asia to interact with Airmen who depend on his command for the supplies, parts and maintenance services they need to get their jobs done.General Donald J. Hoffman shared his message for the AFMC work

Female World War II pilots lay wreath at Air Force Memorial

More than 1,000 civilians and servicemembers watched as World War II Women Airforce Service Pilot corps remembered their sisters-in-arms during a wreath-laying ceremony March 9 at the Air Force Memorial here.Several WASPs, many clad in their World War II-era service uniform, placed roses next to the

Air Guard officials tweak recruiting Web site

Considering today's explosive popularity of social media and online research it may come as no surprise that military recruiting Web sites are rushing to keep up with new technologies and trends.Air National Guard officials are riding that wave with more personal interactivity in their public

Everyone saves with generic drugs

Popular generic drugs like omeprazole, zolpidem and cetirizine, which treat gastrointestinal problems, insomnia and allergies, also are available under familiar brand names. While generic drugs are not advertised on television or in magazines, they provide the same benefits as their brand-name

Cyber Control System launch under way

Electronic Systems Center program managers are in Virginia the week of March 8 for a contract kick-off meeting on Increment One of the Cyber Control System, after awarding the critical $8.9 million contract to Electronic Data Systems, a Hewlett Packard company, two weeks ago.CCS Increment-1 will

Multi-aircraft mission provides key training in Thailand

C-17 Globemaster III aircrews integrated with multiple aircraft types to complete an airdrop training mission as part of Cope Tiger 2010 March 8, here.The C-17s from Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska, flew in a three-ship formation to conduct airdrops while under escort of A-10 Thunderbolt IIs from

American, Afghan docs begin surgical process for young burn victim

An American facial thoracic surgeon and an Afghan medical team from Kandahar Regional Medical Hospital partnered March 1, here to help heal a young man who had severe burn injuries for six months.Thirteen-year-old Abdul Rahman was severely burned in a cooking incident in his home. His father managed

Airmen rewarded in Thailand exercise

Reservists and guard members took time away from their civilian jobs to participate in the Exercise Cope Tiger 2010 to help with civic assistance programs in early March. These Airmen have joined nearly 500 U.S. servicemembers from around the country who are taking part in the multilateral exercise

'Legends of Aerospace' visit Airmen in Southwest Asia

The first and last men to walk on the moon, the commander of Apollo 13, the last Air Force pilot "Ace" and the SR-71 chief test pilot, all "Legends of Aerospace,"  were the honored guests of the 386th Air Expeditionary Wing March 8 at an air base in Southwest Asia.Hundreds of servicemembers flocked

WASPs awarded Congressional Gold Medal

The first female military pilots received the Congressional Gold Medal at a ceremony in the Capitol March 10. Almost 70 years ago, the Women Airforce Service Pilots were disbanded with little fanfare, but this ceremony was a way to make things right for the trailblazers, said Secretary of the Air

Secretary, chief of staff brief congressional subcommittee

Policy to mandate head injury evaluations

Defense Department officials said they expect to launch a new policy in the coming months that will make head-injury evaluations mandatory for all servicemembers who may have concussions. The current guidelines for treating servicemembers with such injuries allows for them to come forward on their

Manpower agency officials name annual award winners

Air Force Manpower Agency officials recognized their 2009 top performers recently during an annual awards luncheon here.The awards recognized the top military members, civilians and teams throughout the Air Force Manpower Agency."The winners represent the best across the Air Force at helping

Regular colorectal cancer screening saves lives

Regular colorectal cancer screening saves livesColorectal cancer screenings may be an uncomfortable subject for some people to discuss, but their importance cannot be underplayed. With one in 19 Americans being diagnosed with colorectal cancer in their lifetime, the good news for Tricare

VA targets $39 million for homeless veterans

The Department of Veterans Affairs is allocating $39 million to fund about 2,200 new transitional housing beds through grants to local providers."VA is committed to ending the cycle of homelessness among Veterans,"said Secretary of Veterans Affairs Eric K. Shinseki. "We will use every tool at our

DOD officials identify more phases for Iraq medal

Department of Defense officials announced March 10 that additional campaign stars are authorized for wear on the Iraq Campaign Medal.The campaign stars recognize a servicemember's participation in DOD-designated campaigns in Iraq. Airmen who have qualified for the ICM may display a bronze campaign

Defense secretary comments on tanker competition, other issues

The recently released request for proposals for the Air Force's next-generation tanker aircraft was fair, the Defense secretary said here March 11, and he expressed disappointment that Northrop-Grumman has withdrawn from the competition for the $35 billion contract. Secretary Robert M. Gates also

American servicemembers help Afghans make strides

Some Provincial Reconstruction Team Zabul military members will soon prepare to travel back to their duty stations after assisting their Afghan partners with improvements in Zabul province communities.Over the course of 10 months, the collective staff completed more than 65 projects, totaling more

Day 31 of '30+ Days Through Afghanistan'

The Web-based project, "30 Days Through Afghanistan," kicked off Feb. 8 and has been bringing the people, the mission and the experiences of the men and women assigned to the International Security Assistance Force to a worldwide audience through the eyes of Tech. Sgts. Nathan Gallahan and Kenneth

Employment program to resume for enrolled spouses

The Military Spouse Career Advancement Accounts program, commonly known as MyCAA, will resume March 13 for the more than 136,000 spouses who already have established an account, the Defense Department official who heads up the program announced March 11 here. Officials announced a temporary halt in