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Volume 73 No. 1 February 2021
How the Force Generation
Center is improving support
to warfighting Airmen
Official Magazine of the Air Force Reserve
From the Top @ AFRCCommander Chief’s View @ AFRC.CCC
2021: FORWARD RACIAL DISPARITY REVIEW
TOGETHER HIGHLIGHTS IMPORTANCE OF TRUST
Heroes of the Air Force Reserve:
As a command team, improving the During the holidays I spent some time reading the Air
lives of Reserve Citizen Airmen has been Force Inspector General’s report on the recent Racial Disparity
our guiding principle. To that end, we laid Review. First of all, I want to thank every one of you who took
out our three strategic priorities: prior- Lt. Gen. Richard Scobee and Chief Master Sgt. Timothy White received their first COVID-19 the time to provide your input to make this review possible.
itizing strategic depth and accelerating vaccination shots in early January. They encourage all Reserve Citizen Airmen to remain vigilant More than 123,000 members of our Air Force family took the
as the country continues to work to get the pandemic under control. (Tech. Sgt. Nicholas A. Priest)
readiness, developing resilient leaders, and time to respond to the survey.
reforming the organization. As we move the report and think critically about it. maximum transparency throughout the Everyone is a leader in some capacity, and as leaders we need
into 2021, we will continue to accelerate Understanding the contents of the report review. to be both mentally and emotionally prepared to address our
our actions to achieve our objectives, is important for our organization. While In January, the team completed its wingmen’s concerns about some of the findings in this report.
setting our strategic priorities up for the report assessed racial disparity exists first major milestone, in which it iden- Mental preparedness starts with doing the homework of reading
long-term sustainment. throughout the service, it did not examine tified processes that need assessment. the report and talking about it as leadership teams. When it
The command chief and I are eagerly its root causes. That work is ongoing, with Going forward, the team will investigate comes to something this important, you don’t want to be like the
As this screen shot from a recent Yellow Ribbon event shows, the Air Force
awaiting the opportunity to safely travel an additional progress check anticipated racial disparity in these process areas and student who didn’t do the reading and then gets called on by the Reserve is an extremely diverse organization. The Reserve must now fo-
and see more of you throughout the year. within the next six months. develop data-driven recommendations. teacher. Many of our Airmen opened up to talk about traumatic cus on ensuring all Reserve Citizen Airmen are treated equally and have
While the vaccine rollout has given us Our commitment to creating a cul- Our goal is to provide the information experiences in the hope that their leadership would take steps to the same opportunities for career progression. The recent Racial Disparity
hope that we will eventually get the pan- ture of diversity and inclusion remains to the field on its finding along with any make meaningful and lasting change. Review is the first step in this process. (Courtesy photo)
demic under control, we must continue unfaltering. Trust, between ourselves as changes that are implemented as a result. As I thought more on the report, I was reminded of one of
to remain vigilant. Letting our guard Airmen and in our institution, hinges on Once our initial review is complete, we Colin Powell’s most referenced quotes on leadership: “Leader- Over the years, my own mindset has changed. I’ve learned
down at this point is like walking the last our ability to learn and grow. Leaders at will continue to assess progress through ship is solving problems. The day the soldiers stop bringing you words matter. As I’ve learned and grown as a leader, I’ve learned
lap of a fitness assessment. It jeopardizes all levels must have the emotional intel- our Diversity and Inclusion Office. their problems is the day you stopped leading them. They have to embrace change and accept the fact that today’s military is
turning all of the hard work during the ligence to have tough conversations and Building and maintaining trust is either lost confidence that you can help them or concluded that different than the one I enlisted in 31 years ago. Today we are
previous five laps into failure. learn about the individual experiences of a commitment. It is a commitment to you do not care. Either case is a failure of leadership.” This is an better.
Our success in preserving readiness the people they serve alongside. Learning continually cultivate an environment in area where we have some work to do. I’ve learned we must acknowledge our individual problems
during the pandemic has largely been about our differences strengthens us as a which each of our Airmen are able to The report provided us with the “what,” but it did not reveal and shortcomings, as well as those within our organization.
dependent on trust and open commu- team by helping us incorporate different maximize their potential. It is an ongoing the “why.” Reasons behind racial disparity in our Air Force will Problems are opportunities to lead. They provide an opportu-
nication. We worked with our subject perspectives and experiences. conversation based on mutual respect. The be addressed in a follow-on report this summer as we continue nity for us to present the best version of ourselves. If each of
matter experts to get as much infor- Where trust thrives, so does innova- culture of our service is one of constantly to gather more information and analyze data. us commit to being the best version of ourselves, no challenge,
mation as possible to each unit. Based tion. When Airmen are valued, they are striving to improve. As we go into 2021 However, it did highlight one problem that we as leaders need obstacle or foe will be able to defeat us.
on that information, we trusted our empowered to bring new ideas to the together, let’s recommit to making the to address. That problem is one of trust. Reserve Citizen Airmen The boss and I eagerly look forward to being able to safely
command teams’ ability to keep Airmen table. By continuing to foster a culture best Air Force Reserve possible by pre- have to trust that their leadership will listen to their concerns travel to see you in person. Until then, please feel free to share
healthy by tailoring preventative measures where everyone is appreciated for what serving our readiness, enhancing trust and and thoroughly address them. That may mean that we have to your thoughts, issues or concerns with me at afrc.ccc@us.af.mil.
by location, based on their knowledge of they bring to us, we reinforce the fact that providing combat power to the nation at hear some things that are uncomfortable for us or contradict our As always, it’s an honor and privilege serving as your command
local conditions. Finally, we trusted that we value each individual. Valuing each the best value for the American people. own perceptions of the world. chief. ■
every Airman would remain conscientious person is key to ensuring that everyone is Thank you for all you do. ■ Every one of us has blind spots. Leading an organization
about implementing basic countermea- able to reach their fullest potential in our while believing you don’t have blind spots is like driving a car
sures and responsibly accessing personal organization. without using the mirrors: you may be able to get somewhere,
risks. Institutional trust is built through but you’re going to make a lot of your fellow travelers very
As leaders, trust is the currency we transparency. In addition to the Depart- uncomfortable.
work with. In December, the Depart- ment of the Air Force’s Racial Disparity Learning about what makes us different doesn’t make us focus
ment of the Air Force publicly released Review, I asked our team to complete an solely on our differences, but instead helps us appreciate what
RICHARD W. SCOBEE TIMOTHY C. WHITE JR.
its report on the Air Force Inspector Air Force Reserve internal Racial Dispar- Lieutenant General, USAF each person brings to the table. Use the mirrors in your life, Chief Master Sergeant, USAF
General’s independent review into racial ity Review to examine those processes we Chief of Air Force Reserve those who view things from a different angle, to better under- Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chief of Air Force Reserve
disparity. I encourage you all to read own. One of the team’s primary goals is Commander, Air Force Reserve Command stand how your actions affect those around you. Command Chief Master Sergeant, Air Force Reserve Command
2 // February 2021 February 2021 // 3
www.citamn.afrc.af.mil Table of CONTENTS Leadership
Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr.
Chief of Staff, United States Air Force
Volume 73 No. 1 // February 2021 FEATURED STORIES NEWS & PEOPLE Lt. Gen. Richard Scobee
Commander, Air Force Reserve Command
13
Col. Beth Horine
Standing Up to Cancer Director, Public Affairs,
Reserve Citizen Airman fights rare disease with unit's support Air Force Reserve Command
14
Magazine Staff
Racial Disparity Review Bo Joyner
Editor, Public Affairs,
Focused step toward equal treatment for all Air Force Reserve Command
17
Anthony Burns
Fuels Management Flight Graphic Designer, Public Affairs,
Keeps 445th C-17s flying Air Force Reserve Command
18
Contributing Writers
Ready for Anything Master Sgt. Chance Babin, Col. Amy Boehle,
CBRNE defense course keeps Airmen prepared Tech. Sgt. Garrett Cole, Lt. Col. Brett J. Dorey, 1st
Lt. Rachel Ingram, Staff Sgt. Matthew Matlock,
19
Senior Airman Noah J. Tancer, Maj. Ashley
ARPC News Walker, Tech. Sgt. Brigette Waltermire, and
Senior Airman Erin Zimpfer
Major promotion, captain continuation boards postponed
Citizen Airman magazine (ISSN No. 0887-9680)
20
Master Sgt. Stephen Schester
is published bi-monthly by Headquarters Air Force
Flexible and Resilient Reserve Command Office of Public Affairs for the
Pacific Reservists host unique Yellow Ribbon event
06 10 16
commander of Air Force Reserve Command.
Periodical postage paid at Warner Robins, Georgia,
Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
21
and additional mailing offices. Copies are mailed, free
Breaking Barriers of charge, to the homes of all Reservists. Content is
Expeditionary wing selects first woman Reserve command chief normally news articles and features developed for
release to commercial media as part of the Air Force
The Force Obsessed with Hard Work
22
Reserve’s continuing public affairs program. Opinions
Wingman Saves of contributors are not necessarily those of the Air
Force Reserve. All photos are U.S. Air Force photos
Generation Center Aviation Pays Off Command stands up program to promote crisis intervention unless otherwise indicated. Readers-per-copy ratio:
23
4-1. Send inquiries and submissions to HQ AFRC/PAOM,
Committed to serving our Indian immigrant living the Defender selected to become HQ RIO News 155 Richard Ray Blvd., Robins AFB, GA 31098-1661.
Or, email them to hqafrc.pa.citizenairman@us.af.mil.
warfighting Airmen in today's American dream, shooting for the active-duty drone pilot Individual medical requirements are your responsibility For questions about the magazine or its contents, call
and tomorrow's fight stars in Air Force Reserve (478) 327-1771 or DSN 497-1771.
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serving a statutory tour of duty, should send a change
ON THE COVER:
Volume 73 No. 1 February 2021
of address to their military personnel flight or unit
Chief Master Sgt. Dana Capaldi, orderly room. Individual mobilization augmentees
Tech. Sgt. Brigette Waltermire
How the Force Generation
The Force Generation Center is the single organization responsible for generating Air Force Reserve forces Center is improving support
command chief for the 379th Air should call the Total Force Service Center-Denver
to warfighting Airmen
by leveraging Reserve strategic capability to meet operational needs in support of global force management. Expeditionary Wing, speaks with toll free at 1-800-525-0102 or DSN 665-0102.
For more on what the FGC is doing in support of the Air Force Reserve's strategic priorities, see the story Airmen at Al Udeid Air Base,
POSTMASTER: Please send all Forms 3579 to Citizen
on page 6. (Photo illustration by Anthony Burns, original photo by Staff Sgt. Marleah Miller. Qatar. Capaldi is the first Re- Airman, HQ AFRC/PAOM, 155 Richard Ray Blvd., Robins
A color gradient technique was added to the original image.) servist and first female command AFB, GA 31098-1661.
chief in the history of the 379th
AEW. For the story, see page 21.
Official Magazine of the Air Force Reserve
Chief of Air Force Reserve’s Priority 1: Prioritize strategic depth
Priority 2: Develop resilient leaders Priority 3: Reform the organization Look for these icons for stories that A publication by the
and accelerate readiness
Strategic Priorities #ReserveReady
#ReserveResilient #ReserveReform focus on these three priorities. U.S. Air Force Reserve
The Force
Generation Center
Committed to serving our
warfighting Airmen in today's
and tomorrow's fight
Above, Paul Jordan and George Broadie, assigned to
the FGC's Mission Planning and Execution Branch,
have been extremely busy this past year working
clean corridor options to support Reserve Citizen
Airmen traveling to and from their
deployed location. Right, Audrey Delaney, a
deployment readiness planning specialist assigned to
the Aviation Branch, coordinates sourcing
solutions for an upcoming deployment. (Bo Joyner)
A Commentary
By Lt. Col. Brett J. Dorey Aligned with AFRC Commander Lt. commanders more flexibility to fill a First, FGC leadership drove a 100%
Gen. Richard Scobee’s priorities for the tasking by delegating authorities for review for all the position descriptions
“Accelerate, change or lose …” When Air Force Reserve of prioritizing strategic change management and substitutions. for our full-time workforce. This review
Gen. Charles Q. Brown issued this depth and accelerating readiness, devel- These efforts not only added agility to the resulted in a myriad of reclassification
provocative edict days after taking the oping resilient leaders, and reforming the process, but also resulted in considerably efforts, including position description
seat as our newly appointed chief of staff organization, the FGC is intensely com- fewer reclamas for the command. rewrites, position upgrades and internal
of the Air Force, it was an intentional call mitted to being the single point of fusion Additionally, the FGC also reengi- realignments of manpower.
to Airmen everywhere on the impera- for the command’s warfighting readiness neered a deliberate approach to our This restructuring focused on recruit-
tive to reimagine and reengineer our Air posture in today’s and tomorrow’s fight. exercise participation across the com- ment, retention and development of our
Force to meet the strategic demands of mand. The result will realign our readiness civilian workforce. Additionally, the FGC
tomorrow’s fight. Accelerating Readiness preparation to match our deploy-to-dwell successfully converted 15 Air Reserve
Having spent the last year at Air War mobilization windows. This newly pur- Technician positions to Active Guard and
College studying our rapidly evolving As recently as 2019, the FGC began posed exercise posturing will reprioritize Reserve positions across the center.
security environment becoming more and working with our Guard counterparts at local exercise participation during dwell Finally, leadership reclassified many
more defined by reemerging great power the Air National Guard Readiness Center periods and combatant command- military positions from general staff Air
competition, Brown’s decree seemed and the Headquarters Air Force War er-sponsored exercise participation during Force Specialty Codes to more specific
timely. As a newly assigned division chief Planning and Policy Division to revamp deployment preparation windows. This requirements to ensure the team had the
in Air Force Reserve Command’s Force how the Air Force mobilizes Reservists effort will ensure our Reserve Citizen right skillsets in the right positions. These
Generation Center, the opportunity to in support of combatant commander Airmen are relevant to emerging require- actions resulted in the FGC overcoming
directly impact our Reserve Citizen Air- requirements around the globe. ments as defined by our geographic a mission-critical manning shortage to
men’s readiness seemed unparalleled. My While still somewhat transparent combatant commanders. being almost 100% manned over the
excitement grew as I discovered the FGC to the majority of our Reserve Citizen course of the past year.
team already aggressively leaning forward Airmen, this working group’s outcome Developing Resilient Leaders Additionally, the FGC has devoted
into this mindset. resulted in the newly minted Air Reserve considerable time to professionalizing its
Component Mobilization Process, which Over the past year, the FGC has also teammates both internally and externally.
Brig. Gen. Stacey Scarisbrick, AFRC Force Gen-
eration Center commander, leads a Crisis Action added significant agility and flexibility been busy restructuring and rebuilding its Internally, the FGC has developed
Team meeting inside the FGC conference room to the mobilization process. Essentially, team to ensure it is ready to support the controls to track major programs and pro-
in December. (Master Sgt Stephen Schester) the process and policy updates gave evolving needs of our security landscape. cesses; institutionalized officer, enlisted
6 // February 2021 February 2021 // 7
and career field-specific professional • Deployment Orders Cell Pro- Reserve Citizen Airmen from across the As our FGC motto decrees: Ne Quid
development forums; hosted various cesses (Oct. 2020) country to the front lines in New York Pereat! … “That Nothing Be Lost!”
wellness training seminars; and conducted • Single Mobility System and City in less than 48 hours, a first for our #ReserveReady #ReserveResilient
various team building events. Threat Working Group Processes Air Force Reserve. #ReserveReform
Externally, the FGC reinvigorated its (Nov. 2020) As we consider the uncertainty of our (Dorey is the FGC's Systems Division
outreach to units starting with hosting a • Transportation Processes (Nov. evolving geostrategic landscape, there is chief.) ■
virtual mobility conference with all units 2020) little doubt that we need to evolve to face
identified for mobilization in Reserve tomorrow’s challenges. It is a privilege to
Component Period 06. Like all CPIs, these events focused on be part of a team so faithfully committed
In September, the FGC also began identifying and reducing wasted energy, to serving our nation and meeting the
hosting monthly telecons again with wing overcoming communication barriers challenges of tomorrow's fight. We will
leadership for units presently mobi- and evolving our services to better serve be ready!
lized and those postured to mobilize. In our customers. To ensure our customers
October, the FGC even restarted unit remained at the forefront of our solution
Thomas Grissinger, chief of the FGC's Security Cooperation and Exercise Branch, discusses AFRC's
2021 deliberate exercise process schedule with Senior Master Sgt. Eric Vesey and Senior Master Sgt. visits. Although COVID forced most of sets, each event had internal and external
Mary Fisher, regional combatant commander expeditionary combat support planners, and Rhonda these engagements into virtual forums, customer representation.
Grigger-Evans, the FGC’s resource management specialist. (Bo Joyner) FGC leadership remained flexible in Having participated in three of these
exploring different platforms to host and CPIs, I have been amazed to watch the
consistently sought feedback to ensure we team’s dedication and ingenuity as they
remained responsive to the needs of our endeavored to reengineer, reimagine and,
internal and external customers. in some cases, reinvent their processes to
be better for our Reservists.
Reforming the Organization CPIs haven’t been the only vehicle for
change in the FGC. Arguably, one of our
What I believe has been most impres- most significant efforts to date to reimag-
sive about the FGC is the team’s exhaus- ine how we can better serve our custom-
tive efforts to reform itself into the team ers has been our beta test to evaluate the
our Air Force Reserve and nation needs possibility of centralizing mobilization Specialists inside the FGC Battle Watch work behind the scenes during a Crisis Action Team
for today’s and tomorrow’s fight. orders production at the FGC. briefing on the COVID-19 vaccination in December. (Master Sgt. Stephen Schester)
Since September 2019, the FGC The test was aimed at getting Airmen
has conducted nine continuous process their deployment orders 180 days before
improvement events. CPIs are no small their deployment to maximize their
undertaking. Anyone who has been part pre-deployment Tricare benefits.
of a CPI knows the significant prepara- The beta test included eight units and
Above, Oscar Lopez, chief of HQ AFRC's Command Post, monitors e-mail traffic. The Command
Post recently moved to co-locate with the FGC Battle Watch. Below, Senior Master Sgt. Erica tion and required follow-through. The 895 Airmen deploying in RCP05. Over-
White, a mobilization analyst assigned to the Agile Combat Support Branch, trains Sarah Johnson, outcomes, however, can be considerable, all, the test successfully cut the average
a newly hired deployment readiness planning specialist. (Bo Joyner) especially with the fiscal constraints of processing time from 59 days to approxi-
the defense budget so heavily focused on mately seven days for most units involved
recapitalizing our aging infrastructure. in the test.
Here is a list of the events the FGC con- The FGC is currently advocating within
ducted since September 2019: the command’s corporate process to adopt
• Airmen Mobilization Package this mission, with plans to support mobi-
Processing (Sept. 2019) lization requirements for the entire Air
• Functional Area Representatives Force Reserve starting with RCP07.
AMP Standardized Work (Nov.
2019) Reflection
• Battle Watch Data Collection
Process ( Jan. 2020) As I pause to reflect on what the FGC
• Crisis Action Team Command, endeavored this year, I am humbled to be
Control and Communications part of this incredible team. The FGC's
Improvements (April 2020) willingness to reform itself ensured it was
• Request for Information Processes ready when COVID-19 turned our world
(Sept. 2020) upside down. We were ready! Scarisbrick and other Reserve Command senior leaders meet in person and via video teleconference
• M4S Processes (Oct. 2020) The FGC facilitated sending 125 to discuss COVID-19 vaccination issues. (Master Sgt. Stephen Schester)
8 // February 2021 February 2021 // 9
“I wrote an essay saying I would like to be an astronaut and Basu Roy did his first solo flight when he was 19 and he
how I would start by being a pilot,” he said. “But my teacher got passed his first exam for his private pilot’s license with flying
mad at me. She thought I was being a daydreamer even though colors. He received his instrument rating and his commercial
I was a good student at the time. She spanked my hands with a pilot’s license in just six months.
bamboo stick until my palms got red. She even made fun of me With his pilot certificates in hand, he enrolled at Miami
with a few other teachers. But I believe those kinds of experi- Dade College to work on his associate’s degree and began work-
ence made me a strong and successful person today.” ing toward his certified flight instructor rating.
Unlike his teacher, Basu Roy’s parents supported his dreams. He earned an associate of science degree in pilot technology
“I remember my parents said, ‘if you dream big over here, and a bachelor of science degree in information technology
people will think you are crazy. We will work very hard and as a distinguished graduate while simultaneously pursuing his
save money so we can send you to the only land of opportunity, aviation career.
which is the United States of America. Nobody will judge you “Four years ago, when I started flying as a flight instructor, I
there. You will have enormous opportunities and freedom.’” trained many new pilots who passed with flying colors and now
Basu Roy continued to do well in school and he never lost his work for airlines worldwide,” he said.
passion for aviation and space. An accomplished flight instructor, Basu Roy accepted a
When he was 18, his parents decided it was time to send job with Air Wisconsin Airlines, a regional partner of United
Basu Roy to the United States. Airlines.
“We had many family members and friends living in the “I joined them as a first officer about three years ago and
U.S.,” he said. “For my parents, it was the best place they could accumulated more than 3,000 hours in total flight time. I now
send their only child. I think that decision forever changed my have more than 1,500 hours in jet time,” he said.
life.” An airline captain at age 24, Basu Roy turned his attentions
Within 19 days of arriving in the United States, Basu Roy to reaching his lifelong dream of becoming an astronaut.
began flight training. Having spent endless hours on a com- “I applied for the U.S. Navy in 2016, thinking that someday it
puter-based flight simulator growing up in India, he was well will open a pathway for me to apply for Test Pilot School, which
prepared for the actual training. will make it easier for me to one day be a NASA astronaut,” he
“My instructor was so happy that I already knew so much said.
Airman 1st Class Sorav Basu Roy (left), an air transportation specialist assigned to the 482nd Fighter Wing, Homestead Air Reserve Base, Florida, and
a commercial airline pilot with United Express, is living the American dream. Basu Roy came to the United States from India and was able to attain his
about the aircraft,” he said. “On top of that, I was able to do all During his application process, the Navy stopped recruiting
pilot’s license and work his way to the rank of captain as a civilian pilot by the age of 24. (Courtesy photo) the maneuvers by myself without his intervention. In my first people without a residency card due to a government directive.
entry in my pilot logbook, he wrote ‘Excellent Job.’” Undeterred, Basu Roy continued to look for a way to chase his
Obsessed with Aviation
Indian immigrant living the American dream,
shooting for the stars in Air Force Reserve
Airman First Class Sorav Basu Roy, an air transportation
specialist assigned to the 482nd Fighter Wing, Homestead Air
Reserve Base, Florida, and a commercial airline pilot with United
Airlines, is living the American dream.
By Master Sgt. Chance Babin Born and raised in the small, mountainous and underdeveloped Basu Roy, shown here
city of Agartala, India, Basu Roy had big dreams as a little boy, and, with his parents and a
thankfully, parents who encouraged him to shoot for the stars. cousin at the Newark,
“My childhood dream was to be an astronaut someday,” he said. New Jersey, airport,
“But, in my society there was so much prejudice that not many credits his parents
with supporting his
people supported me, except my parents.”
dream of becoming
He recalled writing an essay on his life goals when he was just 6 a pilot and, possibly
years old and receiving an unusual reaction from his teacher about one day, an astronaut.
his future aspirations. (Courtesy photo)
10 // February 2021 February 2021 // 11
Standing
While he will begin his Air Force Reserve
career as an air transportation specialist, Basu
Roy, shown here with a fellow United Express
Up to
pilot, hopes to eventually get selected by a
Reserve pilot board. (Courtesy photo)
Cancer
Reserve Citizen
Airman fights
rare disease
dreams of becoming an astronaut and serve his country. Since
he is not an American citizen yet, he is not eligible to be an
States for an undergraduate pilot training slot and eventually
make it to the Test Pilot School.”
with support
Air Force pilot. But he talked to an Air Force recruiter who
explained that he could enlist. He set his sights on joining the
With his sight set on still becoming an astronaut some day, he
has started working on earning his doctoral degree in unmanned from his unit
Air Force Reserve. aerial systems.
“When I first met Basu Roy, I was impressed because he was “This year, for the first time, I applied for NASA’s astronaut
a 24-year-old airline pilot,” said Tech. Sgt. Reynaldo Rodriguez, program as a civilian,” he said. “I know nobody gets selected as
Senior Airman John May poses with some of the awards he has earned during his service with By Maj. Ashley Walker
the Air Force Reserve. May has been fighting a rare form of cancer since 2018 with the help and
a line recruiter with the 351st Recruiting Squadron. “He was an astronaut on the first attempt, so I will keep on tying until support of his fellow Reservists at Little Rock Air Force Base, Arkansas. (courtesy photo)
willing to join as an enlisted member, with hopes of becoming I fulfill this life goal from my childhood. I will be an Air Force
a pilot later. He did whatever we asked of him. He has always Reserve pilot and then, soon enough, a NASA astronaut. That A Reserve Citizen Airman assigned to 10-hour surgery to remove the tumor.” “As a unit, we donate to charities each
been motivated. He has always been active and confident in day will be my dream come true.” the 913th Airlift Group, Little Rock Air The procedure left him with several areas year to give back to the communities that
everything he does.” While he continues to chase his dreams, Basu Roy gives a lot Force Base, Arkansas, is fighting a rare of titanium plating and mesh to replace support us,” she said. “We’ve supported
Basu Roy was all set to join the Reserve in late 2019, when of credit for the success he has achieved so far to his parents. form of cancer with a lot of help from his areas of eroded bone. John throughout his battle with cancer.
an opportunity he couldn’t refuse came up. He received an offer “I believe I am a photocopy of my father,” he said. “He was a fellow Reservists. Since his initial diagnosis, he has This year we decided to help John as our
from United Airlines to transfer from the regional carrier to the highly respected and now-retired police officer and a president In Aug. 2012, Senior Airman John received the “all clear” from cancer twice; official unit fund-raiser event.”
main airline. medal awardee. My mom was a housewife. They taught me early May joined the 913th Maintenance but it has reemerged three times since The unit also hosts blood drives
“So I stopped the enlistment process for some time,” he said. in life how important it is to have high moral and ethical values. Squadron at Little Rock as a traditional then. He is currently fighting the battle throughout the year through a partner-
“My plan was to start with United and then eventually enlist in Watching them, I learned how to value an organization and Reservist. He later made the switch once again. ship established by Gingrich with the
the Reserve.” have high respect for people in uniform or people in general. We to the 96th Aerial Port Squadron. In “A year later, after undergoing chemo Arkansas Blood Institute in 2016. The
“Back around November of 2019, he told me he had to take a should make sure we do our best to make our employer succeed. April 2018, he was training for his first and radiation, they found the cancer had unit held a drive in January that benefited
break because he was transferring airline positions with United,” I inherited that kind of strong work and life ethics from them.” deployment with the unit when he was metastasized and spread to distant parts May through the institute’s credit-to-pa-
Rodriguez said. “I told him that was a great civilian opportunity He also gives a lot of credit to the people who have helped diagnosed with a rare cancer, alveolar of my body,” he said. “Doctors are now tient plan.
and to not pass it up. He appreciated the honesty and said he him in his new country. rhabdomyosarcoma. working to aggressively treat the cancer.” This plan provides credits to May that
would definitely stay in touch and continue the process some “I am so grateful to the United States of America and its May was devastated, not just because May’s surgeries and subsequent offer financial assistance for services not
day. To be honest, I wasn’t sure if I would ever hear from him people,” he said. “A lot of credit goes to those who came into of the diagnosis, by because he was not treatment left him with visible scars, but covered by insurance.
again. my life and left a positive impact on me. I can succeed in my life able to deploy with his fellow Airmen. did not alter his commitment to the Air “I am beyond thankful for my military
When the COVID-19 pandemic hit and the commercial because of the help I got from so many kind people. I would like Doctors immediately removed a tumor Force and his fellow Airmen. family,” May said. “Their ongoing efforts
aviation industry suffered a major slowdown, Basu Roy thought to thank the United States of America for giving me so many near his eye and followed up with radia- “I, along with his fellow Airmen, to provide blood products, host fund
it would be the perfect time to begin his military career. enormous opportunities. This is and will forever be a land of tion and chemotherapy. They said he was couldn’t ask for a better wingman,” said raisers and their regular check-ins have
“I saw that the aviation industry would take at least another opportunity. Dreams do come true here. God bless America!” fortunate not to lose his eyesight. Master Sgt. Debra Gingrich,” the 913th played a major role in my motivation to
year to recover completely,” he said. “I decided to complete my #ReserveResilient “February of 2018 is when my symp- AG’s Development and Training Flight continue the fight against cancer. Thank
process for enlistment and training with the Air Force Reserve.” (Babin is assigned to the Air Force Recruiting Service public toms of cancer first appeared,” May said. program manager. “I saw how devastated you all!” #ReserveResilient
While he is excited about serving as an Airman, he still has affairs office.) ■ “I thought it was a severe sinus infec- he was when he couldn’t deploy. He is the (Walker is assigned to the 913th Airlift
some loftier goals in mind. tion. Later on in April, while getting type of person I want to serve with.” Group public affairs office.) ■
“My job for now will be air transportation,” he said. “My my physical for pre-deployment, they Gingrich is helping lead efforts at
immediate next goal is to get selected by any pilot board within discovered a tumor the size of a baseball. Little Rock to support May as he contin-
the Air Force Reserve, anywhere in the continental United This prompted the doctors to perform a ues to battle cancer.
12 // February 2021 February 2021 // 13
Racial Disparity Review
for Black/African-American Airmen and Space Professionals in The IG will release a progress report six months after the
the areas of military discipline and career development opportu- report’s initial publication, followed by an annual review. Both
nities. Specifically, varying degrees of disparity were identified in of these assessments will be publicly released and provided to all
apprehensions, criminal investigations, military justice, admin- Airmen and Space Professionals.
istrative separations, placement into occupational career fields, Concurrent with the IG’s review, Air Force and Air Force
certain promotion rates, officer and civilian professional military Reserve senior leaders conducted multiple listening sessions
educational development and some leadership opportunities. with Air and Space Force members to gain additional insight
According to the report, the data does not address why racial and perspectives.
disparities exist in these areas, and that while the data shows Additionally, the Air Force stood up a task force to compre-
race is a correlating factor, it does not necessarily indicate hensively address the issue of racial, ethnic, gender and other
causality. demographic differences and their impact on the Air and Space
“I think it’s really important to note that the Air Force report Forces. Two Reservists, Col. Eltressa Spencer, the director of
provided us with the ‘what,’ but it didn’t reveal the ‘why,’” said Air Force Reserve Command’s Commander’s Action Group,
Chief Master Sgt. Timothy White, AFRC’s command chief and Senior Master Sgt. Kenya Jackson, the aircraft armaments
master sergeant and Scobee’s senior enlisted advisor. “Finding functional manager in AFRC’s Logistics, Engineering and Force
out why certain groups of people are treated differently will go Protection Division, serve on the task force.
a long way toward ensuring there is the necessary trust between Since June, the task force has facilitated additional track-
all Airmen and their leaders in the Air Force and Air Force ing of administrative discipline data, to include demograph-
Reserve.” ics; increased Reserve Officer Training Corps scholarships at
Although the review’s primary focus was on identifying the Historically Black Colleges and Universities; revised dress and
degree to which racial disparity is present, the IG team con- appearance regulations; advocated for acceptance of a Super-
ducting the review received a large volume of firsthand accounts Score combination for the Air Force Officer Qualifying Test,
of experience with bias, as well as individual acts of racism. which gives the applicant the opportunity to use their highest
According to the report, while it is impossible to validate expe- score from each part of the test; created partnerships with Afri-
riences reported during feedback sessions or within the survey, can-American fraternities and sororities and the Congressional
the themes that emerged from the feedback make it reasonable Hispanic Caucus Institute; established a sixth team as part of
U.S. Air Force courtesy graphic
to conclude that individual acts of racism have occurred in the the Barrier Analysis Working group (Asian-American/Pacific
Air Force, Air Force Reserve take focused step Department of the Air Force.
Additionally, the review highlighted feedback from a signifi-
Islander); and initiated the Department’s new “GO Inspire”
program designed to increase Air and Space Force general offi-
toward equal treatment for all
cant number of Black Airmen who voiced distrust in their chain cer outreach to youth to increase diversity in operational career
of command to address racism, bias and unequal opportunities fields and the broader force.
within the Air Force. The majority of Black survey respondents In October, the task force transitioned into the Diversity and
also felt that Black/African-American Airmen are not given the Inclusion Office, which will report directly to the Secretary of
By Bo Joyner benefit of the doubt by their chain of command when it comes the Air Force. The IG’s report recommends that this office also
to military discipline. review the report’s findings and assess applicability to broader
Following a tumultuous spring and summer of 2020 marked “While the Air Force Racial Disparity Review includes the Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr. acknowl- D&I initiatives.
by civil unrest, protests and demonstrations across the country, Air Force Reserve, I thought it was important that we take a edged the critical feedback and the need to build and maintain Scobee said he was confident the Reserve’s Racial Disparity
the Air Force and Air Force Reserve embarked on a journey closer look at all of those things that make the Reserve unique trust between Airmen and Space Professionals and their chains Review team can help the command reach its goal of ensuring
to focus more on diversity, inclusion, equal treatment for all through the lens of racial equality to ensure that all of our of command. all members of the Reserve team are treated equally and fairly
Airmen and improved race relations within the ranks. Reserve Citizen Airmen are being treated fairly and have all the “The IG’s survey and interviews are noteworthy in that they and that they all have the same opportunities for career progres-
As an initial step, last June the secretary of the Air Force and same opportunities,” Scobee said on Jan. 8 as he and other senior empowered Airmen and Space Professionals to provide their sion and development.
the Air and Space Forces service chiefs ordered an Air Force leaders received a briefing on Phase 1 of the AFRC Racial Dis- unfiltered personal perspectives and experiences, and they deliv- “If you would have asked me two years ago, I would have told
Inspector General independent review into racial disparity. The parity Review. Phase 1 focused on identifying Reserve-unique ered loud and clear,” he said. “Racial disparity isn’t an easy topic, you that I was happy where the Reserve was from a diversity and
IG review focused specifically on assessing racial disparity in programs and policies that require review. Phase 2, which is and something we don’t traditionally talk about much through- inclusion standpoint,” he said. “But now, it’s clear that we still
military discipline processes and personnel development and scheduled to run through June of this year, will focus on com- out our levels of command. This report and the many engage- have a lot of work to do. The Racial Disparity Review is a good
career opportunities as they pertain to Black/African-American pleting process assessments and implementing countermeasures. ments with Airmen and Space Professionals have increased first step toward getting that work done.”
Airmen and Space Professionals. The narrow focus was necessary The Reserve Racial Disparity Review Board is looking at a chain of command awareness and an opportunity to build trust. The full Air Force Racial Disparity Review report can be
to enable a prompt yet thorough assessment. Subsequent efforts host of programs and processes from a racial equality perspec- Now we must all move forward with meaningful, lasting and found at https://www.af.mil/Portals/1/documents/ig/IRDR.
to be undertaken as a result of the review will not be exclusive to tive, including the Reserve Brigadier General Qualification sustainable change to do so.” pdf. #ReserveReady #ReserveResilient #ReserveReform
a single minority group. Board, colonel assignments, administrative separations and other The IG review provides a preliminary roadmap for address- (Much of the information in this story was taken from a Secretary
In July, Lt. Gen. Richard Scobee, AFRC commander and adverse actions, potential biases in hiring practices, position ing racial disparity within the Air Force. As a next step, the Air of the Air Force Public Affairs news story.) ■
chief of the Air Force Reserve, ordered an Air Force Reserve vacancy promotions and award recognition rates, among others. Force has begun root cause analyses and will provide updated
Racial Disparity Review to examine Reserve-unique processes to In releasing its report on the findings of the IG review in action plans, as appropriate, to the secretary of the Air Force and
supplement the Air Force-wide review. December, the Air Force confirmed that racial disparity exists the Air and Space service chiefs.
14 // February 2021 February 2021 // 15
Hard Work Pays Off A Reserve Citizen Airman assigned to the
445th Airlift Wing, Wright-Patterson Air Force
Base, Ohio, headed to drone pilot training in
Defender selected to become early 2021, following eight years of service to
the 445th Security Forces Squadron.
active-duty drone pilot
During the squadron’s 2018 deployment to
Kuwait, Staff Sgt. Jalen McMahan, fire team
member, completed accelerated online classwork
toward a master’s degree in justice adminis-
By 1st Lt. Rachel Ingram tration. He balanced his course load with the
demands of high-tempo deployment operations,
Fuels Management Flight
at times working upward of 12-hour shifts.
As soon as he returned to the United States,
he contacted a recruiter to apply for an active-
Keeps C-17s Flying
duty commission in the Air Force. With both
his undergraduate and graduate degrees in the
field of criminal justice, along with four years’
civilian experience as a corrections officer, he
anticipated that if he was selected, it would be By Senior Airman Erin Zimpfer
for a security forces role.
“I always wanted to be a pilot, but I just never Senior Airman Jeremy Miller, fuels technician, and Tech. Sgt. Richard Blake, NCO in charge of operations, 445th Logistics Readiness Squadron fuels
thought I’d get there,” McMahan said. “During management flight, service liquid oxygen carts during the November unit training assembly.
that deployment, I simply focused on doing
my job well, putting in the academic work to Fuel keeps the world moving and on the go. With the “These liquid oxygen carts are installed on the aircraft
advance my career and poising my family for the global mission of the Air Force Reserve’s 445th Airlift Wing, and are the source of oxygen for aircrew members during
future.” Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, it is essential that the flight,” explained Binford. The fuels systems and equipment at
For McMahan, this next step has been a long wing has the resources needed to keep flying around the world. Wright-Patterson undergo extensive daily, weekly and monthly
time coming. He was notified of his selection One critical component that keeps operations running inspection and testing.
to become a remotely piloted aircraft pilot in smoothly in the wing is the 445th Logistics Readiness Squad- Binford said contractors have been utilized since 1979 at
December 2019. He was scheduled to report to ron’s Fuels Management Flight. The flight performed its Wright-Patterson and are responsible for all fuels operations for
Officer Training School in Alabama Jan. 5 of November 2020 unit training assembly during the week, instead the 88th Air Base Wing.
this year. Following graduation, he will attend of on the weekend. “Having two Airmen from the 445th Fuels Management
advanced training in both Colorado and Texas. “Performing our UTA during the week and having contrac- Flight work for the contractor has vastly improved our relation-
“I’m excited to tackle something new tors readily available allowed the Airmen to complete the bulk ship and increased training opportunities,” she said.
and push myself,” the 28-year-old said. “I’m petroleum contingency report (commonly called the REPOL),” Tech. Sgt. Justin Rogers, noncommissioned officer in charge
planning to carry what I’ve learned from my said 2nd Lt. Libya Binford, 445th LRS fuels management oper- of the fuels information service center, said because the flight
mentors and teammates here as I transition into ations manager. manages so many different types of fuels and resources, includ-
active duty.” Binford described the REPOL report as a monthly inventory ing seven Jet AA fuel tanks and two ground fuels service sta-
McMahan and his wife, Tanner, are both snapshot to show the fuels assets each installation has available. tions, the system is quite complex.
Ohio natives. When they wed in 2017, the “The report accounts for the jet fuel, diesel, unleaded gasoline, “The flight manages more than two million gallons of fuel
wedding party included friends McMahan met liquid oxygen, de-icing fluids as well as personnel, equipment annually,” Rogers said. “Our fuels are piped throughout the
at the 445th. and vehicle inventory for the base,” said Binford. ground in a loop and progress through fuel separators to ensure
“I will miss the family I’ve found in this Producing the REPOL report is a great opportunity for the the fuels are very, very clean and no contaminates go into the
squadron,” he added. “I was looking for a new fuels management flight as it allows members to inspect every aircraft.”
challenge, but it’s going to be a big change to aspect of the fuels systems housed at Wright-Patterson Air The training proved beneficial to all involved.
leave this behind.” Force Base. “Training during the week has given us a better opportu-
When asked what the future holds, McMa- During the UTA, the fuels management Airmen performed nity to get hands-on with more aircraft runs and allows us to
han said he hopes that once he settles at his per- quality testing on the liquid oxygen and serviced the systems build relationships with our partner contractors,” Rogers said.
manent-duty station, he and Tanner can explore and cryogenic components. The storage and management of #ReserveReady
new places, go backpacking and purchase their all different types of fuels is a full-time job. The flight includes (Zimpfer is assigned to the 445th Airlift Wing public affairs
Staff Sgt. Jalen McMahan, who was assigned to the 445th Security Forces Squadron at first home together. #ReserveResilient traditional Reservists, Air Reserve Technicians, Active Guard office.) ■
Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, for eight years, was recently selected to become an (Ingram is assigned to the 445th Airlift Wing Reserve Airmen and contractors from the Defense Logistics
active-duty remotely piloted aircraft pilot. (Courtesy photo) public affairs office.) ■ Agency, all working together.
16 // February 2021 February 2021 // 17
Ready for Anything
CBRNE defense course keeps Airmen prepared
By Senior Airman Noah J. Tancer
The 910th Civil Engineer Squadron contained an overview of alert color biological, radiological, nuclear, or high-
taught chemical, biological, radiological, levels, force protection condition levels yield explosives attacks,” said Senior
nuclear and high-yield explosives, com- and the corresponding mission-oriented Airman Donald Duda, an emergency
monly called CBRNE, defense courses protective posture gear levels and proce- management member assigned to the
AFR major promotion, captain continuation boards postponed
during the 910th Airlift Wing’s January dures appropriate to each of the scenarios. 910th Civil Engineer Squadron.
unit training assembly at Youngstown Air The Airmen then inspected their M50 The CBRNE course is one of many
Reserve Station, Ohio. gas masks and Mission-Oriented Protec- courses Airmen take to ensure the United
Reserve Citizen Airmen are required tive Posture gear and received an expla- States Air Force is the best prepared Air The Calendar Year 2021 Air Force Reserve Major Line and communication and transactions relating to your inquiry. This
to remain current in CBRNE skills to nation of each piece’s location, purpose Force in the world. #ReserveReady Nonline Promotion Board has been rescheduled for March 29, is the most efficient way to execute a transaction start to finish.
remain consistent with the wing’s mission and donning procedures. The presentation (Tancer is assigned to the 910th Airlift pushing it back two months from its original date of January 29. Please do not directly contact HQ ARPC members for assis-
statement of, “Combat ready NOW…for finished with a walkthrough of team Wing public affairs office.) ■ This change is due to new Department of Defense and Depart- tance as this places information in multiple places and makes it
tomorrow’s fight!” Within about an hour- responsibilities after an attack. Partici- ment of the Air Force requirements, and the time needed to difficult to track and keep a record of your transaction.
and-a-half, the class covers three main pants practiced donning and doffing all implement them.
sections: CBRNE hazards, protective their gear and performing buddy checks As a result of the changes to the major promotion boards, the TAP reform helps Reservists
equipment and CBRNE attack response. on their wingmen and were inspected by captain continuation boards have also been postponed and will
The class began with a presentation the course instructor. be held immediately following the major promotion boards. Until recently, Reserve Citizen Airmen were required to com-
on symptoms of exposure in chemical “CBRNE training is important so Headquarters Air Reserve Personnel Center has made the plete the Transition Assistance Program with every new 180 day
warfare and defending against different that Airmen have the skills to protect necessary changes to the convening notice and will be releasing set of military orders. With new reforms enacted by Congress,
CBRNE threats. The presentation also themselves in the event of a chemical, additional information regarding the new requirements once Reservists are no longer required to attend TAP with every 180
they receive them from the Secretary of the Air Force. day set of orders, according to the policy.
Left to right, Staff Sgt. Cody Dorner dons his mission-oriented protective posture gear, Senior Airman Donald Duda provides instruction and Maj. The board convening notices for the CY21 USAFR Major The policy ensures all Reserve members will complete the
Keisha Wolfe dons her M50 gas mask during a 910th Airlift Wing chemical, biological, radiological, nuclear and high-yield explosives defense course at Line and Nonline Promotion Board (ARPCM 20-18) and TAP mandates after serving their first 180 continuous days or
Youngstown Air Reserve Station, Ohio. (Staff Sgt. Noah J. Tancer)
USAFR Captain Continuation Board (ARPCM 20-30) can be more on active duty but they will not be required to attend all of
found on myPers. the mandates for every 180 days on orders after that.
Eligibility requirements have changed due to the new con- Reservists can voluntarily attend TAP workshops and brief-
vening date. Reservists should note that the one-year require- ings while on additional orders as the program provides a wide
ment on the Reserve Active Status List is now March 29, 2020. array of information on topics including, VA benefits, educa-
tional benefits, employment assistance and retirement planning.
Field orientation videos now available “TAP has a wealth of beneficial information for our Reserv-
ists,” Mandie Holovach, Air Force Reserve Command Airman
Headquarters Air Reserve Personnel Center Public Affairs and Family Readiness program specialist, said. “The new policy
has produced and published videos from the November 2020 will ensure members receive the valuable information presented
Air Reserve Component field orientation event, which was held in a timely and beneficial way.”
virtually. The updated policy also states that if a Reserve member is
These videos target the Air Force Reserve force support TAP eligible at their final separation or retirement, they will
squadrons and military personnel units, but information in sev- be required to attend the VA benefits briefing, if they have not
eral of the videos is also good for every Airman. Some examples attended within the past five years, to ensure they are aware of
are retirements, points and promotion boards for officers, to all VA benefits before ending their military service.
name a few. Reservists should contact their local Airman and Family
The videos can be viewed either on the ARPC YouTube play- Readiness office for information on how to complete TAP
list (currently not accessible via Air Force networks) or via the requirements. For further details, please go to www.DODTAP.
Defense Visual Information Distribution site. mil or email questions to A1.RZ.workflow@us.af.mil.on mil-
If you or your unit has questions about any of these Connect. #ReserveReady #ReserveReform ■
topics or have an active help ticket, please use myPers for all
18 // February 2021 February 2021 // 19Flexible and Resilient Breaking Barriers
Support Group commander. “It’s espe- Chief Master Sgt. Dana Capaldi was recently named the
cially important to ensure our team is first Reservist and first female command chief master sergeant
ready for deployment, even in the midst for the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing, Al Udeid Air Base,
of a pandemic.” Qatar.
Pacific Reservists overcome “The typical Yellow Ribbon event is
hosted at a central venue,” said Valentine.
Capaldi reported for her new assignment on Dec. 28, after
being chosen for the wing’s top enlisted position by Brig. Gen.
COVID-19 challenges to host “Members fly out to a hotel with their
families and participate in a variety of Expeditionary wing selects Dan Tulley, the 379th AEW commander.
“It was easy to volunteer for this opportunity,” Capaldi
Yellow Ribbon event first woman, first Reserve
programs. Events are scheduled all week- said. “I’ve been in the Air Force for more than 30 years and
end, which includes a variety of breakout deployed multiple times. You never know going in how it will
command chief
sessions covering a wide range of valuable be, but I wasn’t apprehensive. Everyone in the wing has been
By Tech. Sgt. Garrett Cole information.” amazing.”
Because 624th RSG deployers weren’t Capaldi’s assignment is set to last for six months. Until now,
The stress associated with deployments coordinating with a civilian job, family able to travel due to COVID-19 precau- the wing’s command chief was someone who had been in a
can pose one of the biggest challenges care and financial responsibilities. tions, they were encouraged to attend permanent-party assignment at Al Udeid for one or two years.
Airmen face before going “down range.” “I’ve been deployed a few times, but locally and virtually. The 48th Aerial Port “I was humbled to be chosen,” Capaldi said. “There’s a lot of
The Yellow Ribbon Program is there you really don’t know how to deal with Squadron was able to host its first-ever By Tech. Sgt. Brigette Waltermire trust implied because I will be deployed for the rest of (Tul-
to help assist Reservists in obtaining the some of the challenges,” said Senior virtual Yellow Ribbon event and adhere to ley’s) tour here. My goal is to continue the forward momentum
necessary tools to alleviate stress before Master Sgt. Andre Valentine, the 624th social and physical distancing protocols. of the wing and adjust any footing that needs to be adjusted
deploying. During the challenges of RSG Yellow Ribbon representative. “The content of the event remained rather than altering things just for the sake of doing something
the COVID-19 pandemic, the 624th “There are so many programs out there to the same,” said Valentine. “The main while I’m here.”
Regional Support Group, Joint Base Pearl tap into, and as the military has evolved difference is that we didn’t have the travel Capaldi said her experience as an active-duty Airman,
Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, found a way over the past couple of years, those pro- incentives. But all the information that Reservist and Air National Guardsman along with her expe-
to facilitate the program virtually for the grams have grown as well.” pre-deployers normally get, we were able rience working with Army, Navy and Marine entities should
first time. Reservists train to be mission-ready. to provide.” help her in her new job. Prior to being selected as the 379th
Active-duty military members who Leading up to deployment, checking off Shinas expressed support for the pro- AEW command chief, she was the command chief for the
have deployed become well-accustomed numerous boxes in a standardized routine gram in her opening comments. Reserve’s 514th Air Mobility Wing, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-
to the deployment process, and its helps to confirm readiness. Yet, even the “This program is a vital part of Lakehurst, New Jersey.
assembly-line style, ensuring members get most thorough checklist can’t account for maintaining resiliency and showing our “I wasn’t apprehensive about this job because no matter
out the door safely and ready for what’s all potential stressors, and that’s where Airmen that we have their backs,” said where I’m a command chief, the job is to take care of our
to come. For Reservists, however, the the Yellow Ribbon Program helps. Shinas. “It’s critical that we still pressed enlisted Airmen,” she said. “The only difference I have noticed
process is a bit more complex. And with “The Yellow Ribbon Program is an forward in holding the event. Resiliency is here you have more enlisted senior leaders to help get every-
the ongoing pandemic, the challenges are incredibly valuable platform for our starts at the home front and carries one mission ready. The newest experience for me is meeting our
even greater. Reservists have multiple pri- Reserve Citizen Airmen and their fami- on to every aspect of who we are. The coalition partners and getting their perspectives throughout
orities to juggle as they and their families lies so they have the tools they need,” said deployers and their families are all part Above, Chief Master Sgt. Dana Capaldi, command chief for the 379th some of the immersion events about the mission I’ve gone to.
Air Expeditionary Wing, speaks with an Airman with the 379th Ex-
prepare for what is to come, including Col. Athanasia Shinas, 624th Regional of our `ohana, and it’s imperative that we peditionary Comptroller Squadron at Al Udeid Air Base, Qatar. Below, “This is not a typical deployment experience, but I’m looking
consider everyone’s wellbeing and provide Capaldi serves a holiday lunch to Airmen on Christmas Day. Capaldi forward to using the experience I’ve gained from having been
Reserve Citizen Airmen from the 624th Regional Support Group participate during a Yellow
Ribbon predeployment event held at the 48th Aerial Port Squadron at Joint Base Pearl Harbor
them with the support to thrive in what is the first Reservist and first female command chief in the history of the an active-duty Airman, Guardsman and Reservist.”
Hickam, Hawaii. (Tech. Sgt. Garrett Cole) can be a challenging period.” 379th AEW. (Tech. Sgt. Brigette Waltermire) Capaldi said she was honored to be the first Reservist and
During an event, the tools and first woman to serve as the 379th AEW’s command chief.
resources provided are just one facet. “There always has to be a first,” she said. “And in my case
Valentine also added that the interaction that is being a Reservist and a female command chief of the
between attendees helps provide a sense largest expeditionary wing in the world,” she said. “I never
of community. saw myself at the table when I first joined the Air Force, but
For more information on the Yellow we’ve grown a lot as a military and continue to grow. The
Ribbon Program, visit the Air Force unique experiences of my career allow me to be two firsts in
Reserve Command Yellow Ribbon web- this instance, and what I hope many other Airmen take from
site at http://www.afrc.af.mil/AboutUs/ this moment is that they have the potential to be at the table
YellowRibbon.aspx and the DoD Yellow in the future. But it is important to know that I’m here for you.
Ribbon website at http://www.yellowrib- No matter who I am in the history of the wing, what matters
bon.mil. #ReserveReady #ReserveResilient most is I’m here to help you do the mission.” #ReserveReady
(Cole is assigned to the 624th Regional #ReserveResilient
Support Group public affairs office.) ■ (Waltermire is assigned to the 379th AEW public affairs office.)
■
20 // February 2021 February 2021 // 21You can also read
