Reserve Airmen test mobilization at Lackland

With the start of the Air Force "Push-Pull 2007" exercise here June 18, some 320 Individual Ready Reserve Airmen from across the country have been called to active duty.  A push-pull exercise, typically conducted every two years, tests the mobilization process and evaluates the skill level of the

'Rescue Dawn' tells true story of Vietnam POW rescue

It was a movie premiere like few others. As the credits rolled down the screen here June 19, a Vietnam veteran in the audience -- not the Hollywood star with some 40 credits to his name -- got the louder applause and the standing ovation. Retired Air Force Col. Eugene Deatrick, 82, slowly ambled to

Commanders lead in challenging times

From a fighter-bomber wing during World War II to today's 50th Space Wing, more than 40 commanders have led dedicated Airmen in the pursuit of protecting the nation. Today's 50th SW provides crucial space support to the joint warfighter in the war on terrorism. 50th Fighter-Bomber Wing (June 1,

'Guardian Angels' put to test at survival competition

Two water survival instructors assigned here earned the Col. Bud Day trophy June 14 as winners of the 2007 SERE (survival, evasion, resistance and escape) Challenge -- a physically grueling and mentally exhausting competition among some of the Air Force's elite special operators. Staff Sgt. Michael

Airman's Roll Call addresses uniform updates

This week's Airman's Roll Call focuses on updates to the Airman Battle Uniform and physical training uniform. Air Force officials are cautioning Airmen to resist rushing to commercial manufacturers who have begun advertising the availability of the new Airman Battle Uniform. Officials said these

Airmen, Soldiers pay respects to fallen comrade in arms

An empty pair of boots placed in front and, just behind, a helmet sat atop the inverted rifle that held hanging dog tags -- the memorial display stood center stage and served as a focal point for the many Airmen and Soldiers who had come to pay respects to an Airman whose ultimate sacrifice was

Barksdale bombers to fly in Koa Lightning

Four B-52 Stratofortress aircraft and aircrew from the 20th Expeditionary Bomb Squadron deployed here from Barksdale Air Force Base, La., are scheduled to fly to Hawaii and back this week to participate in the latest Koa Lightning exercise. The B-52s will fly more than 18 hours and 6,880 nautical

Kunsan Airmen pay tribute to triple ace fighter pilot

Members of the 8th Fighter Wing, known as the "Wolf Pack," honored Brig. Gen. Robin Olds, who passed away June 14, during a commemoration event June 19. General Olds, former commander of the 8th Tactical Fighter Wing and also known as the first "Wolf," was a triple ace fighter pilot who shot down 16

Japanese commend Airman for volunteer efforts

The Japanese government recently recognized a 730rd Aircraft Maintenance Squadron officer in charge for his community volunteer efforts and charitable ways at a ceremony at the Meiji-Jingu Shrine in Yoyogi Park, Tokyo. During the 57th Annual Spring Zenkokai Commendation Ceremony, Capt. Chad Oba was

Pilots' missions relocate for Spangdahlem's runway repair

Spangdahlem Air Base's runway closed June 15 and is scheduled to remain closed for repairs until mid-July. Although the 52nd Fighter Wing will cease flying operations from Spangdahlem, the pilots and crews from the 22nd, 23rd and 81st Fighter Squadrons will deploy to other locations and continue to

CSAF's Scope focuses on new medal, training

The CSAF's Scope focuses on current topics the Air Force chief of staff feels are of special importance to today's Airmen. This month, Gen. T. Michael Moseley's top issues include the Air Force's Combat Action Medal and ancillary training. "Since 9/11, we have seen a dramatic increase in the number

National Air and Space Museum family day wows visitors

More than 17,000 people got an up close and personal look at several civilian and military aircraft during the "Reach for the Sky" family day at the National Air and Space Museum's Udvar-Hazy Center here June 16. The event paid tribute to the Air Force's 60th Anniversary celebration, and featured a

Kadena NCO court-martialed for child porn

A non-commissioned officer recently received nine months confinement, reduction in rank to airman basic and a bad conduct discharge for possessing and displaying child pornography here. Staff Sergeant Jason M. Hooks, 18th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron, pleaded guilty to the charges before a military

Fallen Bakers Creek servicemembers honored

On June 14, 1943, a B-17 Flying Fortress converted to carry passengers took off from Mackay, Queensland, Australia, carrying 40 servicemembers on leave back to the war in the Pacific Theater. Soon after takeoff, the plane crashed, killing all but one. That story was held secret until just a few

"Operation Air Force" cadets deploy to Southwest Asia

Many students resuming classes in the fall will write the obligatory school report, "What I did over my summer vacation." But, at summers end, not many will be able to say they spent their summer in Southwest Asia to help support operations Iraqi and Enduring Freedom and operations in the Horn of

Fallen pilot remembered

Maj. Kevin Sonnenberg, assigned to the 112th Expeditionary Fighter Squadron, died June 15 when his F-16 Fighting Falcon crashed shortly after takeoff. He had just departed on a mission to provide air support to coalition ground forces fighting anti-Iraq forces. Major Sonnenberg, known as "Sonny" to

Portable armories make munitions conveniently available

Two newly acquired portable armories on base are streamlining the weapons processes for Airmen in theater here. The new armories will allow the 379th Expeditionary Logistics Readiness Squadron to roll up operations at one of their two armory locations and eventually combine their operations at a

Mentoring program can go long way for Air Force cadets

The Air Force Cadet Officer Mentor Action Program has been mentoring young Air Force officers and cadets for nearly two decades. Currently, there are 12 active chapters. Officials at Headquarters Air Force Materiel Command say they would like to see more bases initiate chapters. The program, also

Stress management critical for servicemembers

In times of war, stress is inevitable. With the closure of the flightline here, added stress will be introduced, but the mental health clinic is providing seminars to deal with the situation."(Stress) impacts all areas of life -- honestly," said Maj. James Young, Mental Health Clinic flight

U.S. Air Force pilot killed in Iraq identified

The Department of Defense identified June 16 the Airman who was killed in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom.Maj. Kevin Sonnenberg was the pilot of the F-16 Fighting Falcon who crashed about 50 miles north of Baghdad shortly after takeoff June 14. Major Sonnenberg, assigned to the 112th Fighter

Expeditionary wing memorializes fallen Airman

Co-workers and friends honored a fallen Reservist Airman's life and military service during a memorial ceremony here June 16. Lt. Col. Glade L. Felix, the 379th Expeditionary Medical Group physical therapist, died of apparent natural causes here June 11. Colonel Felix, 52, stationed at the 622nd

Top Air Force recruiters, trainers of year announced

Air Education and Training Command announced the following Air Force winners of the 2007 U.S. Air Force Recruiter, Military Training Instructor and Military Training Leader of the Year Awards in the following categories: Recruiter of the Year Category: Staff Sgt. Jason Rodriguez, 344th Recruiting

Convoy ops takes training, readiness, communication

One key to successful convoy operations is preparation and if practice makes perfect, then the goal of the 455th Expeditionary Security Forces Squadron is perfection. A refined tactical security escort program devised by Tech. Sgt. Joseph Ilsley, is one way the security forces here hope to reach

Letter to Airmen updates force reduction status

In the latest Letter to Airmen, Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne discusses how force reduction cuts ensure that the Air Force will remain the world's premier air, space and cyberspace force. "One of the duties we have as Airmen is assuring future Airmen that they will be as capable and

Newest 'Week in Photos' features Airmen around the globe

The "Week in Photos" Web feature on Air Force Link provides visitors with photos that highlight Air Force missions around the world. At Kirkuk Air Base, Iraq, Lt. Col. Kimberly Bradley carries away an oxygen tank after helping a patient during an emergency trauma situation. Colonel Bradley is

Guard wing transitions to Langley

The Virginia Air National Guard's 192nd Fighter Wing records its last F-16 Fighting Falcon training mission June 20. The wing, which has flown the F-16 since 1991 and is the nation's first ANG unit to fly the F-22 Raptor, will conduct associated operations with the 1st Fighter Wing here. More than

Travis team preps for air mobility competition

"On your marks, get ready, set ... go!" With that, four Travis Airmen sprint toward a C-5 Galaxy, its engines blasting. The Airmen, members of the 60th Aerial Port Squadron's Rodeo Team, were practicing a C-5 engine running on (and) offload, where they must load and unload a C-5 and a C-17

Air Force, Navy test fuel spill response

With ships coming in and out of the port, there's always the possibility for accidents. A Navy fuel facility at Hachinohe port provides fuel to Misawa Air Base. If an oil spill happens there the response must be quick and effective. While the facility has its own people trained to respond to such

Changes in works for Air Force PT uniform

The Air Force uniform board is working to resolve Airmen's issues with the Air Force physical training uniform, which became mandatory for wear in fall 2006. The board has received nearly 500 inputs from Airmen including suggestions on ways to improve the uniform, and some of those changes are in

Uniform officials warn Airmen about knockoff ABUs

Commercial manufacturers have begun to advertise sale of the new Airman Battle Uniform at various online Web sites. Air Force officials warn Airmen these uniforms are not the authorized items provided by the Air Force's official source, Defense Supply Center Philadelphia, and may not meet the

Firefighters suit up for HAZMAT training in Iraq

A convoy winds through the streets of Iraq, when a technician in the lead vehicle sees an unexploded ordnance device near the road. As he moves closer, he notices the smell of chlorine gas. It's time to take protective measures. For firefighters from the 332nd Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron's

Course prepares mobility team leaders

Of the 57 in-residence and online courses offered at the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center's Mobility Operations School, one course targets future leaders in mobility command and control. The Mobility Air Forces Mobile Command and Control Leadership Course, offered four times a year with 16

'Golden Medic' integrates Army, Air Force medical teams

Leaders of the joint Army and Air Force medical exercise here stressed the importance of the services working together. "Golden Medic 2007 is an extraordinary opportunity for all services - active, Guard and Reserve, in addition to our coalition partners," said Col. Mike Dankosky, Air Force Reserve

'Golden Medic' aeromedical team ready to transport

The 706th Provisional Wing stood up here June 10 at the Augusta Regional Airport in preparation for "Golden Medic 2007" June 12-19. Golden Medic, in its 13th year, is the Army Reserve's largest annual exercise. It integrates several armed services' medical components in response to wartime medical

Airmen can earn bachelor's degrees through Air University

Starting June 15, Airmen can apply their Community College of the Air Force credits toward a bachelor's degree from a variety of universities and colleges. This can be done through the Air Force Virtual Education Center which links a prospective student to the new Air University

Twelve Outstanding Airmen of the Year named

Air Force officials have selected the service's top enlisted members, naming the 12 Outstanding Airmen of the Year for 2007. An Air Force selection board at the Air Force Personnel Center here considered 33 nominees who represented major commands, direct reporting units, field operating agencies and

Calling cards help troops call home

On June 17, most fathers will awake to smiles, hugs and maybe even another tie for their collection. For more than 150,000 American fathers, sons and daughters serving in operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, their Father's Day will be much different. To help bridge the gap between the

Civil engineer Airmen paving way for Iraqi Army

Members of the 407th Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron are constructing a 44,000-square-foot concrete drill pad at Camp Mittica, Iraq. The pad will be used for training by the Iraqi Army. The Air Force was approached by the United Kingdom Brigade forward commander for assistance in standing up

Program helps Airmen with reintegration after deployment

Airmen returning from a deployment usually find their permanent duty station a welcome sight. The chance to finally see family and friends again and get back to a normal lifestyle is something to look forward to during the flight home.But Airmen and their families often find that adjusting to life

Balad honors fallen EOD Airman

Senior Airman William N. Newman, an explosive ordnance disposal technician who was killed June 7 south of Balad Air Base, Iraq, was honored in a memorial service here June 10. Airman Newman, 23, assigned to the 332nd Expeditionary Civil Engineer Squadron, was killed by an improvised explosive

Some Airmen, civilians authorized to wear NATO medals

Some deployed Air Force military and civilian personnel are now authorized to wear one of four North Atlantic Treaty Organization medals. Those who served in a NATO unit for 30 continuous or accumulated days and were listed on a Combined Joint Statement of Requirements may be awarded either the NATO

Air Force officials announce airfield operations awards

Air Force officials announced the winners of the 2006 Air Force Airfield Operation Awards June 13. Airfield operations include airfield operations and control, specifically airfield management and air traffic control. The 2006 winners are as follows: Airfield operations flight complex of the year:

Airman's Roll Call: Taking environmental responsibility

This week's Airman's Roll Call focuses on Airmen and civilians being responsible for Air Force's environmental role. The Air Force continues to set the example as the nation's top customer for buying energy that comes from environmentally-friendly sources. Airmen should always look for ways they can

Master, technical sergeant promotion rates announced

The Air Force selected 6,002 of 24,115 eligible technical sergeants for promotion to master sergeant, and 7,314 of 39,797 eligible staff sergeants for promotion to technical sergeant. The master sergeant selection rate, 24.89 percent, rose 5.03 percent from last year, while this year's technical

Precision airdrops deliver directly to battlefield

Water, food and ammunition are only useful if they make it to the people who need them. Fortunately for battlefield Airmen, Soldiers and Marines in Iraq and Afghanistan these supplies are flown in using the Joint Precision Airdrop System. C-17 Globemaster IIIs at the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing are

Arlington exhibit closes with ceremony honoring the fallen

Arlington National Cemetery's "Faces of the Fallen" exhibit closed June 7, and in a ceremony to honor the fallen, artwork featuring servicemembers who have lost their lives were presented to their surviving family members. While the exhibit comprised 1,319 fallen servicemembers, the closing ceremony

Airmen receive first AF Combat Action Medals

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. T. Michael Moseley awarded six Airmen the Air Force Combat Action Medal during a ceremony June 12 at the Air Force Memorial. These Airmen were the first in the Air Force to receive the new medal.Recipients of the award were Maj. Steven A. Raspet, Capt. Allison K. Black,

Middle school students get 'caught' being good

No talking in class. No running in the halls. No chewing gum. Although the rules vary from school to school, some students often find themselves on the wrong end of a meeting with their teachers.There is no exception for students at the Lajes American School. With just more than 400 students in the

Modernizing an old design a challenge for medal makers

The designer of the Air Force Combat Action Medal said it was a challenge giving the medal a World War I feel but at the same time modernizing it. Graphic designer Susan Gamble used artwork from photos of Brig. Gen. William "Billy" Mitchell's aircraft to inspire the design of the medal, which was

Airmen train for worst-case scenarios at Red Flag

When a pilot gets shot down in combat, it takes more than luck to bring him or her back home, which is why Red Flag-Alaska exercises prepare Airmen for any situation. "(These exercises are going to) give some of our aircraft commanders and the people who are flying an idea of what to expect if a

Changes in Air Force to ultimately benefit Airmen

An Air Force-wide plan to reduce the number of Airmen while saving money for equipment upgrades will be difficult, but ultimately, beneficial, said Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Rodney J. McKinley. During an enlisted call here June 6, Chief McKinley spoke with Airmen about the Air Force

Elmendorf celebrates C-17 arrival

Elmendorf officially received its first C-17 Globemaster III airlifter June 11 during a ceremony here. The C-17, "Spirit of Denali," was delivered by Alaska's Lt. Gov. Sean Parnell. "The C-17 is an exceptional aircraft and what a smooth ride," said the lieutenant governor. "This is a great day for

F-22 Raptor team garners Collier Trophy

The National Aeronautic Association presented its Robert J. Collier Trophy to the Lockheed Martin Corporation for their role in the development of the Air Force's F-22 Raptor. The Air Force was part of the team awarded the honor, one of the nation's most prestigious prizes for aeronautical and space

Airman memorialized at Hill Air Force Base

Hundreds attended a memorial service here June 8 for a Hill Airman deployed to Kirkuk Air Base, Iraq, who was killed June 5 by an improvised explosive device that detonated near his convoy vehicle.Tech. Sgt. Ryan A. Balmer, who was assigned here to the Air Force Office of Special Investigations

Air Force band is expeditionary instrument of peace

There was no waiting for the world to change one recent spring day in Afghanistan when Air Force Band members took matters into their own hands and united with a group of local elementary school students for an afternoon of friendship and music. Singing pop songs by artists such as John Mayer, who

Rollover trainer turns up the HEAT on safety

Before security forces teams deploy from Moody, they are now being put through the "spin cycle" of the Air Force's only vehicle rollover trainer. The Humvee Egress Assistance Trainer, or HEAT, is able to realistically simulate a vehicle rollover in a safe environment and will save lives in a

Civic leaders tour Travis during Air Force Week

As part of Air Force Week California, an honorary commanders' tour was held June 7 at Travis Air Force Base. The event brought local civic leaders to the base to see first-hand how Airmen prepare for deployments. The visitors sat in on a deployment briefing, were issued Kevlar helmets and body armor

Latest 'Today's Air Force' now available

This week's edition of "Today's Air Force" highlights Space Command and its multi-faceted mission, ranging from helping pilots navigate around the world to detecting and tracking objects in space above the United States and maintaining America's nuclear arsenal. And be part of an Air Force joint

Airmen killed in Iraq identified

Senior Airman William N. Newman, 23, of Kingston Springs, Tenn., died June 7 south of Balad, Iraq, of wounds suffered from an improvised explosive device attack.Airman Newman was assigned to the 15th Civil Engineer Squadron's explosive ordnance disposal team at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii.Airman

Air Force Week California concludes with air show

Amid tumble dives and barrel rolls, vintage aircraft and modern fighters, the California Capital Air Show concluded Air Force Week here June 9 and 10. The event, which took place at Mather Airport, the site of former Mather Air Force Base, drew more than 50,000 people and offered a variety of

Airmen, Iraqi air traffic controllers work together

Standing 200 feet above Baghdad International Airport in a weathered control tower, Air Force air traffic controllers are busy directing aircraft while their Iraqi counterparts get certified through intensive formal training and hands-on experience. It's a job that is extremely challenging, yet

Final tributes paid to Airmen killed in Iraq

Two memorial displays, each with a pair of boots, an inverted rifle, a helmet and a set of dog tags, stood side by side reflecting the camaraderie and teamwork and service of Tech. Sgt. Ryan A. Balmer and Staff Sgt. Matthew J. Kuglics, whose ultimate sacrifices were honored in a ceremony here June

Journal focuses on developing Airmen, leaders

The College of Aerospace Doctrine, Research and Education at Air University has published and distributed the Summer 2007 English edition of the Air Force's professional journal, Air and Space Power Journal. The journal serves as an open forum for the presentation and stimulation of innovative

Airman dies at Southwest Asia wing

An Airman assigned to the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing died June 11. The cause of death is being investigated. More details will be released as they become available. The name of the Airman is being withheld pending notification of next of kin. The 379th AEW is comprised of 8,000 Airmen from the

'FOX and Friends' shines spotlight on Wright-Patterson AFB

Television viewers who watched the FOX News Network's "FOX and Friends" morning program June 8 gained insight into the diverse mission of Air Force Materiel Command and the Air Force. With a C-5 Galaxy serving as his backdrop, "FOX and Friends" co-anchor Brian Kilmeade broadcast multiple live

Air Force convoy attacked

One 586th Air Expeditionary Group Airman was killed and another injured during convoy operations in southern Iraq when an improvised explosive device detonated and struck their vehicle June 10. The injured Airman was last listed in good condition and is expected to return to duty. The deceased

Newest 'Week in Photos' features Airmen around the globe

The "Week In Photos" Web feature on Air Force Link provides visitors with photos that highlight Air Force missions around the world. At Kirkuk Air Base, Iraq, Staff Sgt. Anthony Chambers checks a solar-powered security system near the perimeter. Sergeant Chambers is deployed to the 506th

Air Force units promo August Air Force Week event

Air National Guard, active-duty and Reserve units from across New England teamed up June 6 to demonstrate and highlight aerial refueling as a way to kick off a summer-long celebration of 60 years of Air Force history.   The celebration promotes Air Force Week New England which will take place in

First Air Force Combat Action Medals to be presented

The Air Force chief of staff is scheduled to present the first Air Force Combat Action Medals to six Airmen during an 8 a.m. ceremony June 12 at the Air Force Memorial in Arlington, Va. Gen. T. Michael Moseley will award the new medals to recognize Air Force members who were engaged in air or ground

Airmen deployed with Army return home

Allies team up for joint exercise at Kunsan

Members of the 8th Fighter Wing and the Republic of Korea air force have teamed up for a joint training exercise June 8 at Kunsan Air Base. Two South Korean F-16s from the 111th Fighter Squadron, two F-16 Fighting Falcons from the 35th Fighter Squadron, Airmen of the 35th Aircraft Maintenance Unit

Latest 'Vector' focuses on wingmen for life

The Air Force chief of staff released his latest vector for Airmen and it focuses on the importance of being a wingman for your fellow Airmen. The wingman concept reflects the ultimate confidence we all must have in our fellow Airmen -- we trust each other, quite literally, with our lives, Gen. T.

Saving servicemembers' lives one flight at a time

Some might say doctors don't make house calls anymore, but that's exactly what the Airmen of the 455th Expeditionary Aeromedical Evacuation Flight at Bagram Air Base, Afghanistan, do on a daily basis. They bring the hospital to the wounded. A typical aeromedical evacuation, or AE, crew turns

Misawa squadrons swap out Iraqi mission

Two F-16 Fighting Falcons flying thousands of feet in the air track a pair of vehicles full of known al-Qaida insurgents on the ground. The vehicles stop at a location free of collateral damage, and command officials make a decision. The F-16s drop precision-guided munitions and destroy the

Travis unit marks 8 years of being DUI free

Airmen of the 6th Air Refueling Squadron at Travis Air Force Base recently marked their eighth year without a driving under the influence incident. "From the day an individual arrives at the squadron, friends and supervisors mentor (new arrivals) on our program," said Chief Master Sgt. Bruce Zahn,

Tops in Blue entertains at Air Force Week

The Air Force's premiere entertainment group Tops in Blue sang and danced for the Sacramento community as part of Air Force Week during a June 5 performance at the Radisson Hotel here. The performance was one of several events the group will do throughout the local area as part of Air Force

MegaPub offers one-stop shopping for Air Force doctrine

The Air Force Doctrine Center has unveiled a new tool, making it easier than ever to reference and search operational-level doctrine. Known as MegaPub, the one-stop shopping solution offers easy access to the complete library of Air Force Doctrine Documents, or AFDDs."As Airmen, we should advocate

U.S., Japanese Airmen meet for cultural exchange

Air Force and Japan Air Self Defense Force officers came together at the JASDF's Meguro College here May 31 for an English language cultural exchange. During the year-long Command and Staff Course at the college, JASDF majors and captains learn the necessary skills to take on future challenges. One

Incirlik medics train with new decon field equipment

Air Force medics have a vital mission in the event of a chemical or biological attack as they must be able to decontaminate large groups of people quickly and effectively in the event of an attack.Incirlik Air Base Airmen are prepared for such an attack and the base is one of only two Air Force

Tanker Task Force keeps Red Flag flying

KC-135 Stratotankers, aircrews and maintainers are providing air refueling support to aircraft from Alaska's Eielson and Elmendorf Air Force Bases to ensure Red Flag-Alaska meets its training goals. More than 1,400 military members from the United States, Singapore and Australia are in Alaska to

Airman's Roll Call: Government travel card a benefit

This week's Airman's Roll Call focuses on the government travel card, a benefit available to Department of Defense employees with the understanding it will not be abused or misused in any way.Use of the card is a benefit, not an entitlement, and Air Force leaders remind card holders that

'Life skills' renamed 'mental health'

All Air Force "life skills support centers" will be renamed "mental health clinics" effective immediately.After a poll of subject matter experts, first sergeants, command chief master sergeants and mental health patients, it was determined that the name "life skills" was confusing and did not

Air traffic controller honored by FAA

Capt. Todd Lobato, chief air traffic control trainer for the Utah Air National Guard's 299th Range Control Squadron, was honored recently by the Federal Aviation Administration as the FAA Safety Team Representative of the Year. Captain Lobato received this award for his role as the aviation safety

Air Force Week begins in Sacramento

The California governor officially declared here June 4 the start of Air Force Week, which is designed to inform and educate the public about the important roles the Air Force plays in support of the nation's defense. There are numerous events scheduled throughout Air Force Week, which runs through

Being Red Cross ready helps during emergencies

Being prepared for emergencies is crucial at home, school, work and in the community, but how does someone prepare for something as devastating as an earthquake or tsunami? The best way to stay "Red Cross Ready" is to have a kit, make a plan and be informed, said Jane Dustman of the Yokota Air Base

Checkmate: Strategic studies group supports leaders

The Air Force chief of staff announced June 4 the establishment of a new Air Force strategic studies group at the Pentagon that will carry a familiar name -- Checkmate. The new Checkmate will act as a catalyst for strategic initiatives and directly support the chief of staff and Air Force leaders

Exercise tests fast-response unit's capabilities

Members of the 615th Contingency Response Wing at Travis Air Force Base, Calif., are here conducting a weeklong exercise that will test the unit's ability to set up operations at a seized air field. Called Operation Hydra, the training is taking place at the Castle Airport and Aviation Development

2006 Super Bowl champs visit Randolph

Champions know about the importance of quality teamwork and the Super Bowl XLI champion Indianapolis Colts are no exception. To help improve their teamwork relationship with the Air Force, members of the Colts championship team visited Randolph Air Force Base June 1 to gain a better understanding

Weather flight keeps pilots safe

When planning a mission, Airmen must consider equipment, manpower and cost; however, there is one element that could have a serious impact if not properly planned for -- the weather. Because of Lajes Field's location as the mid-point between the United States and Europe, military flights regularly

Preparing for unexpected keeps vacation worry-free

Many Airmen stationed overseas have family and friends travel thousands of miles to visit, but sometimes they forget to be ready for to the unexpected like a potential medical emergency. A quick check of a person's insurance and being prepared medically and financially can prevent a vacation turning

Air operations center opens at Tyndall

First Air Force celebrated the opening of the 601st Air and Space Operations Center here June 1 with a ceremony and tour of the 37,000-square-foot, $30 million combat center. First Air Force, which also serves under the North American Aerospace Defense Command as the continental U.S. NORAD Region,

Latest 'Today's Air Force' now available

This week's edition of "Today's Air Force" highlights a device called the targeting pod, whicht ensures pilot accuracy and minimizes collateral damage on the battlefield. Also in this edition, experience how Airmen co-exist alongside Soldiers, Sailors and Marines performing their duties as joint

Airmen, Sacramento team up for Air Force Week

The second Air Force Week of 2007 kicks off June 4 as Airmen from Air Combat Command and Beale Air Force Base share the Air Force story with the community of Sacramento Calif.  Air Force Week is part of a proactive approach designed to increase public awareness of the Air Force's mission, heritage,

Joint forces combine for Red Flag-Alaska exercise

More than 1,400 military members from the United States, Singapore and Australia have converged on Alaska to sharpen their collective warfighting edge in Red Flag-Alaska 07-2, which runs from May 31 to June 15. Red Flag-Alaska, a series of Pacific Air Forces commander-directed field training

Aviano Airmen put brakes on travel

After logging more than 20,000 miles per year, 31st Logistics Readiness Squadron supply warehouse personnel here realized they needed to do something to improve efficiency. As an Air Force Smart Operations for the 21st Century initiative, the supply Airmen rearranged their warehouse to cut down on

'Week in Photos' features Airmen around the globe

The "Week In Photos" Web feature on Air Force Link provides visitors with photos that highlight Air Force missions around the world. Among this week's photos are: In Alaska, an A-10 Thunderbolt II pilot fires the aircraft's 30mm Gatling gun May 29 during Red Flag-Alaska 07-2 over the Pacific Alaska

Air Force officials promote sustainability

In general terms, it's development that meets the needs of the present without compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs. In the Air Force, it's the capacity to continue the mission without compromise. In a word, it's sustainability. Without it, operations are diminished

Joint forces combine for Red Flag-Alaska exercise

More than 1,400 military members from the United States, Singapore and Australia converged on Alaska May 31 to sharpen their collective warfighting edge in Red Flag-Alaska 07-2, which runs through June 15. Red Flag-Alaska, a series of Pacific Air Forces commander-directed field training exercises

Small business award winners chosen

The 2006 Secretary of the Air Force Small Business Awards were presented by the under secretary of the Air Force in a ceremony in Washington, D.C. "It is a pleasure to recognize these Air Force members and teams who have excelled in this important area," said Dr. Ronald M. Sega. "Their efforts play

Fallen Airmen memorialized at Hurlburt

Members of the 720th Special Tactics Group dedicated a state-of-the-art training center and an adjacent roadway here May 30 in honor of four air commandos killed in the line of duty in recent operations. An Iraqi Air Force SL7 light aircraft crashed May 30, 2005, about 80 miles northeast of Baghdad,