September 23, 2016 HAVE YOU READ YOUR KA TODAY? Volume 40, number 38 Future nurses learn from present Airmen Nursing students from Caritas Schulzentrum St. Hildegard in Saarbruecken, Germany, listen to a flight medic from the 86th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron during a tour of the 86 AES facilities Sept. 13 on Ramstein. The students received an introduction to the 86 AES mission from Airmen assigned to the squadron. Story and photo by opportunity to open the eyes and 86 AES education and training NCO real-world situation. Senior Airman Jonathan Bass minds of individuals who do not have in charge. “They had to control the scene, 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs direct involvement or affiliation with “Training like this absolutely ben- effectively direct a team of (Self- military units, organizations or the efits the local community, our interop- Aid and Buddy Care) qualified team In an effort to both increase knowl- (Department of Defense).” erability and builds trust among medi- members and successfully treat their edge and build community partner- The ability to broaden future medi- cal providers,” Christopher said. “The patients,” Christopher said. ship, the 86th Aeromedical Evacuation cal practitioners’ scope of knowledge knowledge gained and lessons learned After touring Ramstein’s facilities, Squadron hosted local national nurs- is a responsibility the squadron takes between nations, especially with our the nursing students visited Landstuhl ing students Sept. 13. very seriously. medics operating in their country, is Regional Medical Center. There, the Nineteen students from Caritas “The 19 students are enrolled in a invaluable to how we represent the Air students visited the neonatal intensive Schulzentrum St. Hildegard in nursing program that will enable them Force Medical Service at Ramstein.” care unit, the post-anesthesia care Saarbruecken, Germany, toured the to enter the workforce of civilian hos- In addition to briefings about what unit, labor and delivery, and the oper- facilities with Airmen from the squad- pitals,” Sutherland said. “The visit the 86 AES does, the students par- ation rooms. ron. today allowed these students to learn ticipated in a simulated mass casu- “Events like the one today allow “U.S. military presence is known opportunities where Air Force nurses alty scenario as part of the Emergency the Air Force and DOD to strength- throughout the world,” said Maj. can incorporate their skill sets and Medical Technician refresher course. en the existing partnerships with the Teri Sutherland, aeromedical evacu- training in an environment outside of The scenario included five simu- international community,” Sutherland ation operations officer. “Many of the traditional clinical setting.” lated casualties who needed treat- said. “This is essential when carry- our host nation civilians are only Medicine is built on the sharing of ment ranging from a broken femur ing out daily mission requirements exposed through social media to knowledge, but it’s as much students to severed limbs. The nursing stu- but especially when responding to events conducted by our armed forc- teaching Airmen as it is vice versa, dents triaged and treated patients as immediate threats, whether locally or es. Educational visits provide the said Staff Sgt. Robert Christopher, Air Force medical staff would in a throughout the world.” TTTTTTTTTTTTTTTTHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEE GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGRRRRRRRRRRRRRRRREEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT KKKKKKKKKKKKKKKKAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAA GGGGGGGGGGGGGGGGIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIIVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVVEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWWAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! RES YLES U T Win a €50 voucher! EWS EAT FES See Page 25 NEO educates, enriches F86 MXG keeps Ramstein LIFarm fest highlights Airmen, Page 3 mission ready, Page 9 pumpkins, arts, Page 12 Page 2 Kaiserslautern American September 23, 2016 86 AMDS keeps track of Ramstein’s health Story and photo by Senior Airman Tryphena Mayhugh 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Just as parents are concerned about the health and safety of their chil- dren, leaders within the Air Force care about the well-being of Airmen. Negligence with personal health not only affects individuals, but it also puts everyone around them at risk. One of the key factors in pre- venting the spread of viruses or infections is education. The 86th Aerospace Medicine Squadron has a number of sections geared to keep- ing Ramstein healthy, including an epidemiology office. “Epidemiology is the study of health-related conditions and inci- dents that occur in a specific popula- tion,” said Tech. Sgt. Jessica Roofe, 86 AMDS NCO in charge of epide- miology. “We use this data to deter- mine if there are any spikes in the community related to any foodborne illness, increases in flu-like symp- toms or other disease outbreaks. For example, we can identify a food- borne outbreak is occurring if a large group of people from the same squadron come in sick with the same symptoms after eating at a potluck.” Once an outbreak has been identi- fied, the epidemiology office reaches Tech. Sgt. Jessica Roofe, 86th Aerospace Medicine Squadron NCO in charge of epidemiology, prepares a tick to be sent for testing Sept. 9 on out to the squadron or individuals to Ramstein. Ticks brought to the office by KMC members are tested for Lyme disease. inform them of procedures for pre- venting further spread of the illness. of sexually transmitted infections. Germany is currently considered or 06371-46-2086. Their office has “If people are sick, they cannot They provide briefings at the First rabies free except for wild bats, walk-in hours Mondays through do their job,” said Airman 1st Class Term Airman Center and local high Roofe said. Fridays from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Brian Voelker, 86 AMDS public schools to provide information to KMC members can bring ticks “We have the best job in the Air health technician. “If they cannot Airmen and students on safe prac- found on themselves to the office Force because we have the opportu- do their job, planes might not go up, tices. The office also encourages and the insect will be sent for testing. nity to help others and educate the which affects the mission.” members to receive screenings. The office also discusses the signs population,” Roofe said. “We are In an effort to prevent spikes in “In regards to STI screening, it and symptoms of Lyme disease with here to help prevent the spread of illnesses from occurring, the epide- is 100 percent confidential,” Roofe the individual. disease and to ensure the Ramstein miology team conducts educational said. “Some patients may not feel Other programs provided are for mission continues day in and day outreach. This includes education comfortable coming to us regarding latent tuberculosis infection, medi- out.” on influenza at the Kaiserslautern certain situations. They think every- cal employee health and bloodborne With knowledge and expertise Military Community Center during thing discussed will end up in their pathogen. These include testing and ranging from Lyme disease to tuber- the flu season, good handwashing record, and it doesn’t.” education within the respective pro- culosis, the 86 AMDS epidemiology techniques, briefings at command- The epidemiology team also deals gram. office keeps a watch over Ramstein er’s calls and more. with animal bites, Lyme disease The 86 AMDS epidemiology so its members can remain healthy The office also tracks the spread surveillance and Zika outbreaks. office can be reached at 479-2086 and fit to fight. including insert or supplements, does not constitute Deadlines: AdvantiPro’s KA Team endorsement by the DOD, the Department of the Air Force • News, feature, school articles and photos – noon Thursday KA Editor Allison M. Conley or the AdvantiPro GmbH of the products or the services for the following week’s edition advertised. Sales Team Armand Derderian, Anita Köhler The Kaiserslautern American is published by • Sports articles and photos – noon Thursday for the follow- AdvantiPro GmbH, Kaiserslautern, Germany, a private Everything advertised in this publication shall be made ing week’s edition Holly Ginas, Karin Flick available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to firm in no way connected with the Department of the race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, • Free (space available) classifieds – noon Tuesday for that  Display Ads Jennifer Holdsworth Air Force or the Department of the Army, under exclu- same week’s KA sive contract with the 86th Airlift Wing. physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non Ad Design & Layout Alexander Pütz, AdvantiPro staff encourages reader comments. Send This commercial enterprise newspaper is an autho- merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. Manuel Flaetgen rized publication for members of the military services Editorial content is based on news releases, features, questions, comments, article and photo submissions to: Erik Nielsen overseas. editorials and reports prepared by Department of Defense, [email protected] or call AdvantiPro at Contents of the KA are not necessarily the offi- Air Force and Army agencies, KMC military units and 0631-3033-5547. Classified Ads Isabell Smith cial view of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government, geographically separated units. To place classified ads, visit www.FindItGuide.com. For Quality Control Jennifer Holdsworth Department of Defense or Department of the Air Force. AdvantiPro staff reserves the right to edit all submit- display ads, email [email protected] or call The appearance of advertising in this publication, ted material. 0631-30 3355 36. Printer Oggersheimer Druckzentrum September 23, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 3 Equal opportunity educates, enriches Airmen Story and photo by Airman 1st Class Savannah L. Waters 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Going into work filled with dread is something everyone has experienced at one time or another. Knowing that you have piles of work to catch up on or that it’s going to be a par- ticularly busy day is one thing. But what happens if you dread work because of unlawful discrimination or sexual harassment? Ensuring Air Force per- sonnel have a healthy envi- ronment to work in free from personal, social or institutional barriers within their organization is a prior- ity of the Ramstein Equal Opportunity Program. Every day, EO strives to further Ramstein Inprocessing Line participants attend an equal opportunity briefing Sept. 6 on Ramstein. When Airmen first arrive at Ramstein, they go through educate the base populace RIP Line to learn about the different services that are available to them, including the EO program. During this briefing, Tech. Sgt. Lakeisha Jones, 86th Airlift on what they can do for Wing equal opportunity advisor, briefed the class on reporting complaints. people that work here. “I think the biggest part NCO in charge. “As a team, we want to “We are making sure they tion and conflict resolution, of our job is that we have to Once a new commander make sure that personnel have everything they need to equal opportunity and treat- think about our people and takes command, they have are being evaluated based do their job,” Jones said. ment incidents, and special- their resiliency and if they 120 days to complete an off of their individual merit In addition to the annu- ized training services. are able to come to work and organization’s Defense and capabilities within their al unit assessments and The EO office is located perform the mission,” said Equal Opportunity Climate organization and not of their DEOCS, EO provides human on Kapaun. For more infor- Tech. Sgt. Lakeisha Jones, Survey. After the first race, color, religion, nation- relations education, media- mation, call 489-8534. 86th Airlift Wing equal assessment, it is conducted al origin, sex, or sexual ori- opportunity advisor. annually until another com- entation,” Warr said. One of the biggest pro- mander assumes the role. Meeting the people, grams that EO uses to assess Through coordination assessing the morale and a unit’s mission effective- between EO and different determining the communica- ness is called the Out and units, these assessments tion flow within a workplace About Program. allow the commander to is an essential part of EO’s “The purpose of the Out know the human relations DEOCS mission. This gives and About Program is to climate of an organization. them a chance to remind gather EO and human rela- The commander and leaders military members and civil- tions information that may get a second set of eyes that ian personnel of their pro- impact installation per- are not within their organi- tected categories as well as sonnel,” said Tech. Sgt. zation for ideas and process educate the base population Jeannette Warr, 86 AW/EO improvements. on reporting complaints. Paralegal career field offers rewarding prospects by Master Sgt. Mary A. Current edge of legal procedures concerning military 86th Airlift Wing Legal Office courts, administration boards, legal terminol- ogy and interpretations, research methods The paralegal career field has retraining and use of legal publications and civil law slots available and could be exactly what matters. you are looking for. The primary mission of Being a paralegal can be rewarding for a paralegal is to assist attorneys in providing individuals looking for a career that gives legal support to commanders, first sergeants them a challenge, independence in their work, and other key personnel on a broad spectrum personal growth and, most importantly, a of matters, including: military justice admin- sense of accomplishment at the end of the istration, administrative boards, accident and day. To find out more about the 5J career field, collateral investigations, estate planning and visit the Air Force Enlisted Classification tax assistance. Directory, Part II. All applicants must also be Once selected for retraining, Airmen interviewed by leaders from the 86th Airlift will be trained on preparing and process- Wing legal office. For more information, ing claims, interviewing techniques, knowl- email [email protected]. Page 4 Kaiserslautern American September 23, 2016 9:07 a.m.: Assault on Ramstein. 2 p.m.: Major traffi c accident without injures in COMPILED BY THE Kaiserslautern. 569TH USFPS AND 86TH SFS 4:25 p.m.: Domestic assault on Vogelweh Family Housing. SEPT. 17 12:45 a.m.: Larceny of secured private property in Landstuhl. 3:29 p.m.: Shoplifting on Ramstein. 9:01 p.m.: Drunk and disorderly conduct in Bad SEPT. 12 11:35 a.m.: Larceny of unsecured private property Duerkheim. in Bad Duerkheim. 7 p.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in 11 p.m.: Assault in Bad Duerkheim. Landstuhl. 11:37 a.m.: Fleeing the scene of a major traffi c acci- 11 p.m.: Attempted larceny and drunk and disor- 8:25 p.m.: Domestic assault in Siegelbach. dent without injuries in Landstuhl. derly conduct in Bad Duerkheim. SEPT. 13 3:25 p.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries in Kaiserslautern. SEPT. 18 11:05 p.m.: Larceny of private property and dam- 7:12 p.m.: Major traffi c accident with injuries near age to private property in Bann. 4:12 a.m.: Drunken operation of a vehicle in Kaiserslautern. SEPT. 14 Kaiserslautern. SEPT. 16 10:15 a.m.: Major traffi c accident without injuries 11:15 a.m.: Theft from a motor vehicle and damage in Ramstein-Miesenbach. 9 a.m.: Larceny of private property in Woersbach. to private property in Kindsbach. Editor’s note: The purpose of the weekly blotter is to deliver a chronological listing of criminal activity in the KMC. The information contained in the blot- ter is not indicative of crime trends or the targeting of service members or their dependents. The location and nature of the entries is dependent upon where the crime was reported and not necessarily where the crime took place. Offi ce closures of the traditional Christian faith and values either directly to a refugee or to organizations • The 86th Airlift Wing Judge Advocate and the Air Force and Chaplain Corps poli- that collect items for refugees, such as the Red Legal Offi ce on Ramstein, Bldg. 2137, will cies. The bidder is subject to criminal history Cross, without the requirement to effect customs be closed for Resilience Day today. The offi ce background checks and must complete a Child clearance. Coordination with German customs or will reopen at 8 a.m. Monday. Care National Agency Check and Inquiries U.S. military customs offi ces is not necessary as • The KMC Housing Offi ce and Furnishings and Installation Records Check. The request no taxes would need to be paid. Items bought in Management Section will be closed Sept. 30 for proposal and bid package can be picked German stores are taxed by German authorities Reported Larcenies due to an offi ce function as well as Oct. 3 due up from the Ramstein North Chapel through so can be donated to any charitable organization to a German legal holiday. Customer service Sept. 26 during normal duty hours, 7:30 a.m. without restriction. For questions dealing with hours will resume Oct. 4. to 4:30 p.m. Interviews will take place at customs, visit www.eur.army.mil/opm/customs/ 1 p.m. Sept. 28 in the North Chapel conference custommail.htm to fi nd contact information for Renovation on Einsiedlerhof room. For more information, contact the North your local customs offi ce. The Furnishings Management Section on Chapel at 480-6148 or 06371-47-6148. Ramstein outprocessing Einsiedlerhof Air Station is currently undergo- Retiree dental appointments ing renovation, with an estimated completion Ramstein outprocessing is held every Monday date of Oct. 3. Entry will be at Bldg. 720, door The four Army dental clinics in the KMC at 8 a.m. in Bldg. 2402. ROP Line personnel 10. During this time, additional assistance will will be open to support retirees as part of the must be preregistered to attend, and a virtual out- be available at the Vogelweh Housing Offi ce to KMC Retiree Appreciation Day from 7:30 a.m. processing checklist will be loaded upon atten- meet customer needs. to 4:30 p.m. Oct. 5. Appointments can only be dance. ROP has an 80-seat capacity. Unregistered made for retirees. If you do not have a record members will be seated on a fi rst-come basis LVIS Gate closes set up at one of the dental clinics listed blow, until capacity is reached. Remaining members Construction of the LVIS access road is you need to contact them to establish a record will be asked to return at a later date. To preregis- scheduled until Oct. 10. Inbound and outbound prior to requesting an appointment. To make ter, use the following SharePoint link: https://ice. traffi c through the LVIS Gate will be unavail- appointments, call one of the following clinics usafe.af.mil/sites/435MSG/435MSS/786th%20 able for privately owned vehicles. Only trucks to which you belong: Force%20Support%20Squadron/ROP/ will have inbound access. • Baumholder, 06783-99-2211 or 485-2200 SitePages/Home.aspx. • Kleber Kaserne, 0631-411-1720 or Voters week at KMCC 483-1720 An absentee voters week is scheduled from • Landstuhl, 06371-86-8136 or 486-8378 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Monday to Sept. 30 at the • Pulaski Barracks, 0631-3406-4446 or Kaiserslautern Military Community Center on 493-4446 Ramstein. There will be information on getting e Donations to refugees registered to vote, receiving and submitting an t absentee ballot and more. For more informa- Giving used personal belongings or items o tion call 480-VOTE (8683) or 06371-47-8683. bought at U.S. forces sales facilities to people Maintain the proper air pressure who are not eligible for customs exemption in your car tires. Check the pressure N RGS coordinator needed under the NATO Status of Forces Agreement before taking any long trips. Measure The Ramstein Chapel is accepting bids for Germany is subject to certain restrictions. the pressure when the tires are cold. e for a Ramstein Gospel Service coordinator However, customs experts say U.S. forces per- Keep your tires at the recommended contract position through Sept. 26. This posi- sonnel and organizations in Germany can donate infl ation pressure. This can be found k tion supports the RGS in all ministry areas food, clothing and children’s toys to refugees in your owner’s manual or on the label a in coordination with the 86th Airlift Wing without any restrictions based on an exception either in the glove box or near the door T head chaplain or their designee. The coordina- granted by German customs authorities. Food, latch on the driver’s side. tor will conform to all teachings and norms clothing and children’s toys can be donated September 23, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 5 Operation hard target against break-ins by Senior Airman William Reece Ask them to: victim of theft. Break-ins can occur  your car as clean and empty as pos- 86th Security Forces Squadron ‒ Collect  the  mail  from  your  anywhere. Some of the most com- sible to avoid enticing potential lar- mailbox. monly stolen items during vehicle  cenists.  Have  you  or  anyone  you  know  ‒ Place your trash cans out on  break-ins are: • Park in well-lit areas. ever been a victim of theft? Statistics  the curb on pick-up dates. • GPS systems • Avoid placing stickers on your  show that for the past three years, 25  ‒ Randomly  open  and  close  • Cell phones vehicle that portray affiliation with  percent of the KMC population have  your rollladens during your absence.  • MP3 players the United States or the armed forc- become victims of theft each year.  This will signify someone is home.  • Military gear and uniforms es. It can be an indicator that you are  So far this year, there have been  If you ever feel that your home  • Televisions American  and  potentially  increase  17  house  break-ins  in  the  KMC  has  been  broken  into,  do  not  go  • Computers and laptops your risk of becoming a victim of  area.  Of  these  17,  only  four  of  inside. Call 110 immediately. Here are a few things you can do  theft. these crimes were committed dur- So far this year, there have been  to protect against theft of personal  If you suspect that any of your  ing the hours of darkness. Here are  69  reports  of  vehicle  break-ins.  belongings from your vehicle:  personal  belongings  have  been  a few tips that you and your family  Surprisingly, 40 out of the 69 vehi- • Always  lock  your  doors  and  stolen,  contact  security  forces  can use in order to minimize your  cles were secured — doors locked  keep windows rolled up. for  assistance.  Ramstein  security  chances of becoming a victim of a  and  windows  rolled  up  —  at  the  • Do not leave high-value items  forces  is  located  in  Bldg.  2371,  house break-in: time of the break-in. The majority  in your vehicle. For example, if you  next to the Auto Hobby Shop, and  • Always double lock your doors,  of vehicle break-ins have occurred  have an AUX cable running from  can  be  reached  at  480-2050  or   turning the key until it will not turn  during  the  hours  of  darkness  and  your stereo to the center console, a  06371-47-2050. Vogelweh  security  anymore. on random days of a week. Many  potential thief may be interested to  forces  is  located  in  Bldg.  2067,  • Always  close  and  lock  your  vehicle owners become victims of  see what is on the other end of the  across the street from Kaiserslautern  windows when no one is home.  break-ins because they fail to prop- cable. High School, and can be reached at  • If you are going to be traveling,  erly  secure  their  high-value  items  • Wipe the GPS suction cup ring  489-6060 or 0631-536-6060. TDY, etc., inform your landlord of  or  place  them  out  of  sight. Also,  off of the windshield. The residue  Remember  these  tips.  They  your upcoming absence and have a  just  because  someone  lives  on  a  on the glass may spark the interest  directly contribute to safety, securi- trusted  friend  or  co-worker  moni- military installation does not mean  of a would-be thief.  ty, awareness and prevention — the  tor your home while you are away.   they are immune from becoming a  • In  general,  you  should  keep  foundation of being a hard target. Retiree Appreciation Day events • 8:15 a.m. — Retiree sign-in • 9 a.m. — Free sit-down breakfast • 10 a.m. — Posting of the colors • 10:10 a.m. — National anthems  • 10:15 a.m. — Chaplain invocation • 10:20 a.m. — Opening comments, 86th Airlift Wing vice com- mander • 10:30 a.m. — Guest speaker • 11 a.m. — Free raffle drawing and break • 11:15 a.m. — “Spirits of the Past” presentation by U.S. Air  Forces in Europe NCO Academy staff • 12:15 p.m. — Free raffle drawing and end of formal program • 12:30 p.m. — Information tables open Retiree Appreciation Day information tables • Army and Air Force Exchange  • Force Support Squadron  Service (FSS) • Army Community Service  • Frankfurt Benefits Unit (FBU) (ACS)  • German Tax Advisor • Airman and Family Readiness  • KMC Retiree Council Center  • LRMC (eye check, dermatol- • Air Force Legal Office  ogy) • Air Force Association (AFA)  • LRMC (taking appointments) • Air Force Sergeants  • LRMC Panel Discussion Association (AFSA)  • Passport Office (taking appli- • American Legion  cations) • Army Legal Office • Retiree Activities Office  • Army NAF (MWR)  (RAO) • Association of the U.S. Army  • Red Cross (AUSA)  • Relay Health • Casualty Affairs  • Retirement Services Office  • Commissary  (RSO) • Customs Office  • Dental • Service Credit Union • 86th Medical Group (disease  • TRICARE management, pharmacy, blood  • Veterans Affairs pressure checks)  • VFW • Fire Prevention • Voting Assistance • Flu Shots  • USO Page 6 Kaiserslautern American September 23, 2016 10 EAEF: Flight that saves lives Senior Airman Chris Dale (left) and Tech. Sgt. Erin Morit, 10th Expeditionary Aeromedical Carts hold litters and supplies Sept. 9 on Ramstein. Each team from the 10th Expeditionary Evacuation Flight technicians, load and arrange equipment onto a C-17A Globemaster III Aeromedical Evacuation Flight has an individual set of equipment, to include medical supplies Sept. 9 on Ramstein. After being alerted for a mission, members of the 10 EAEF have just hours to and monitors, they must check and maintain. report, check equipment, load the plane and set up for the mission. Story and photos by other accommodating hospitals while and ready to go. everything can always be accounted Senior Airman Jimmie D. Pike providing medical support. Within that time frame, Airmen for. 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs “We could find ourselves in the going on the mission must pack a “The most stressful thing about back of C-130, KC-135, C-17 and 72-hour bag, attend an intelligence our job is the unknown,” said (Dr.) In the frigid and dim cargo hold of possibly even C-21A (aircraft),” said brief, attend a crew brief, check all Maj. Jason Merrell, critical care air a C-17 Globemaster III, Airmen strive Senior Master Sgt. Theresa Sheheen, their equipment and supplies before transportation team physician. “There to save the lives of injured service flight superintendent. “The back of loading the aircraft, load the aircraft, may be a mission where we don’t get members while being tormented by a plane isn’t the most ideal medical check equipment and supplies again, notification of a patient’s condition or the deafening rumble of four engines. facility, but that’s what makes the job and perform other ancillary tasks. they may take a turn for the worse. These Airmen are the patients’ best interesting.” “There are checklists we follow We have to prepare for scenarios we option for medical care and transpor- The most ‘unhospital-like’ places to ensure that everything is prop- might not expect and stay one step tation to a hospital. are where members of the 10 EAEF erly checked, prepared and complet- ahead.” The 10th Expeditionary set up their work stations and exe- ed for the mission,” Sheheen said. Despite the challenges, the job is Aeromedical Evacuation Flight, under cute their duties to ensure the recov- “The checklists provide step by step very rewarding to those who do it. the 13th Operations Support Squadron, ery, and at times survival, of patients instructions for just about everything “We save lives and get people back transports injured service members within their area of responsibility. we do.” to good health,” Merrell said. “It’s a via aircraft from deployed locations to Upon being alerted, the team has Even though a lot of time and great feeling to know that we contrib- Landstuhl Regional Medical Center or just a few hours to be on the plane dedication go into preparedness, not ute to that.” Traffic circle construction to begin outside Ramstein East Gate by Stefan Alford attention, exercise caution and under- connect Kisling Memorial Drive at The timeline for the road work will U.S. Army Garrison Rheinland-Pfalz stand that there will be some increased Ramstein to the medical center. also help mitigate the impact of con- Public Affairs commute times during the morning Construction of the ACP is sched- struction traffic for the medical cen- and early evening hours.” uled to begin late spring 2017, and ter. In order to minimize construction Construction is anticipated to begin To help minimize the construc- the bridge will begin late 2018. Upon traffic, the main elements of the L369 in November on a traffic circle to tion impact, the German State of completion of the ACP and bridge, traffic circle are being done prior to improve L369 congestion around the Rheinland-Pfalz Transportation Ramstein East Gate will be closed and the vertical construction of the medi- new medical center area and provide Agency has developed a phased work used only for contingencies. cal center, projected to begin in 2019. quick access to and from Ramstein plan that will keep at least one lane of According to leadership, the new “We are working hand-in-hand and Rhine Ordnance Barracks, as well traffic open at all times in each direc- seven-lane ACP, designed to serve with our German partners on these as improve access from the local com- tion on L369, the main access road to both Ramstein and ROB beginning important projects,” said Col. Keith munities to the autobahn. Ramstein East Gate from the A6 junc- in 2020, will further improve traf- E. Igyarto, U.S. Army Garrison While the end result will alleviate tion at Einsiedlerhof. Ramstein East fic as the 600-meter long stacking Rheinland-Pfalz commander. “The traffic issues along the L369 corri- Gate and the medical center construc- lanes will help prevent traffic from German government (with oversight dor, the planned road work through tion site will be accessible at all times. backing up onto L369. In addition, by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers) November 2019 will create an interim The traffic circle is the first of a the new bridge connecting the ACP is the lead agency for most aspects impact on traffic in the area. series of construction projects that with Ramstein will provide direct of the design and construction of the “This is an important project for will overlap to ultimately improve access for wounded warriors from the L369 traffic circle and the medical our community, but there will be an traffic on L369 for U.S. forces and Ramstein flight line to the new medi- center project. The German Federal impact for those using Ramstein’s local communities. There will be con- cal center. It will also reduce traffic on Construction and State Construction East Gate,” said Brig. Gen. Richard current construction of the new access L369 as U.S. personnel will also be and Transportation Agencies have G. Moore Jr., 86th Airlift Wing com- control point to ROB and Ramstein able to travel directly between instal- closely coordinated the construction mander. “We need drivers to pay and a bridge over L369 that will lations. phasing plan with the U.S. Forces.” September 23, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 7 REGISTER NOW! All Memberships are still FREE! You Could Win a GGooPPrroo AACCTTIIOONN CCAAMM!! Now with classifi eds!!! The FindItGuide.com is New and Improved! Open 24/7 incl. Now you can: Sell your used stuff for FREE Sundays! Find used stuff in your community Search for local businesses Online and Find your next job in print! Look for a rental property Sign up for FREE today! Page 8 Kaiserslautern American September 23, 2016 7th MSC’s MSU-E conducts MEDEVAC training Seventh Mission Support Command Soldiers from the Medical Support Unit-Europe conduct medical evacuation training with the 1st Armored Division’s Combat Aviation Brigade Sept. 9 at NCO Field on Daenner Kaserne. Story and photos by Daniel Clark, an operations officer arrives, including how to approach works and what some of our capabili- Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Chlosta with the MSU-E, 7th MSC. the helicopters, how to load patients ties are with that platform as well.” 7th Mission Support Command In the morning there was an air- on and how to interact with their According to Duncan, a major con- Public Affairs crew safety orientation and familiar- crew chief and flight medic, in order cern for medics when transporting ization brief to the MSU-E Soldiers to do ground handoffs and ensure patients is not causing further damage Army Reserve medics and active followed by cold-load training. everything runs correctly in real-life and understanding what happens in duty helicopter pilots worked togeth- “It was great,” said Staff Sgt. Jessie scenarios. the last phase of care when transport- er to practice loading and transporting Turner, flight medic with the 1st “Our medics were really excited to ing somebody. patients. Armored Division’s Combat Aviation work with a flight medic and learn the The training gave some insight into Seventh Mission Support Brigade. “I feel like we reinforced other side of being a medic,” Clark how patients are transported and how Command Soldiers from the Medical skills that we both had.” said. they are loaded, Duncan said. It also Support Unit-Europe conducted med- The afternoon session was more “Today we practiced a few tech- gave the medics some considerations ical evacuation orientation and train- intense with hot-load litter training, niques incorporating a Blackhawk as they hand patients off to the flight ing with the 1st Armored Division’s hoist operations with short flights helicopter platform,” said Spc. John crew. Combat Aviation Brigade Sept. 9 at above and around the NCO Parade Duncan, a medic with the MSU-E, “It was a good review of our Soldier NCO Field on Daenner Kaserne. Field or landing zone. This allowed 7th MSC. “First of which was loading skills, some of our basic Soldier skills, The training was designed to the MSU-E Soldiers to understand a patient onto a litter, and the second such as radio operation and then the improve efficiency and create realis- how to keep future patients stable of which was actually loading a litter liter carries,” Duncan said. “It tied tic training and familiarization with during on-load and off-load from a onto the helicopter.” everything together into a more cohe- the safe use of Army MEDEVAC MEDEVAC helicopter. After that, the training involved sive, real training exercise. UH-60 Blackhawk helicopters during Turner said they trained with spe- hoist operations during which mem- Duncan said the training is more the MSU-E’s annual training exer- cialized litters, which are used to load bers of the crew dropped from the effective when one visualizes what’s cise. patients into their aircraft when they helicopter and picked up a simulated happening and incorporates it into a “Today we had an aviation are unable to land due to the terrain. casualty from the ground, he said. more realistic setting. MEDEVAC unit come down and we Clark said it was important for “It was very exciting,” Duncan “It was great training,” Turner said. basically practiced the interaction, his Soldiers to know what to expect said. “I think it gave a lot of insight “I appreciate everyone that was here the handoff techniques,” said 1st Lt. when a MEDEVAC helicopter into how the operation typically and hope to do it again sometime.” Assistant secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs visits 7th MSC Story and photo by a town hall meeting with 7th MSC Sgt. 1st Class Matthew Chlosta Soldiers, civilians and family mem- 7th Mission Support Command bers. Public Affairs “Thank you for your service,” Wada told the Soldiers during the town hall The assistant secretary of the Army meeting, adding thanks to civilians for Manpower and Reserve Affairs vis- and family members who serve in ited the 7th Mission Support Command Germany. as part of her visit to the U.S. Army “It can be challenging living over- Europe area of operations Sept. 15. seas, away from family, friends and Debra S. Wada came to the 7th traditional support networks,” Wada MSC to meet with leaders, Soldiers added. and civilians to give and receive feed- She answered questions from the back on Army Reserve programs and Soldiers and civilians in attendance policies and understand the Army about topics ranging from health care Reserve’s specific role and missions to civilian hiring practices and the The United States assistant secretary of the Army for Manpower and Reserve Affairs, Debra S. Wada, under USAREUR. effect of budget cuts for Installation meets with 7th Mission Support Command and 21st Theater Sustainment Command Soldiers and Wada was briefed by the 7th MSC Management Command and civilian civilians to give and receive feedback on U.S. Army and Army Reserve programs and policies to command team and then attended hiring. understand the Army Reserve’s specific role and missions under U.S. Army Europe Sept. 15. September 23, 2016 Kaiserslautern American Page 9 86 MXG keeps Ramstein ‘Forward, Ready, Now’ Story and photo by Senior Airman Tryphena Mayhugh 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs The Air Force functions like a com- plex machine made up of interlocking gears that keep the mission rolling. Every wheel is important with its specific function, but when one gear malfunctions, the whole mechanism suffers. The 86th Maintenance Group is an element of Ramstein that keeps the mission pushing forward. “The military is an instrument of national power, and the Air Force is an incredibly flexible and responsive arm of that instrument,” said Col. Paul Filcek, 86 MXG commander. “Ramstein is the nerve center for Air Force operations in this hemisphere, and the 86 MXG is critical.” The group supports European, Africa and central commands. It is home to the only tactical airlift maintenance organization, distin- guished visitor airlift and 24/7 aero- medical evacuation operation in U.S. Air Forces in Europe. It is also the crashed, damaged and disabled air- craft recovery agent for all of Europe Tino Weichel, 86th Maintenance Squadron aero repair aircraft mechanic, describes capabilities of the 86th Maintenance Group to Brig. Gen. Richard G. Moore Jr., 86th Airlift Wing commander, during a demonstration Aug. 31 on Ramstein. The 86 MXG maintains U.S. Air Forces in Europe's See 86 MXG, Page 11 only assigned distinguished visitor airlift and 24/7 aeromedical evacuation operations. Price increase, payment change for USAREUR drivers Story and photo by checks and money orders will released by the USAREUR Senior Airman be accepted by the 86 VRS Registry of Motor Vehicles, Jimmie D. Pike USAREUR licensing office the registry is a supplemen- 86th Airlift Wing until further notice. tary mission nonappropri- Public Affairs “We also do the appli- ated fund entity that does cation for the international not generate profits but must The United States Army driver’s license,” said Senior recover operational costs. Europe Registry of Motor Airman Christopher Correa, The fund can no longer Vehicles will be increasing 86 VRS licensing official. absorb the losses without the price for USAREUR “The price of that will not increasing fees. licenses to $20 and vehicle change with the USAREUR For more information, registration to $35 beginning license and registrations contact the USAREUR Oct. 1. price increases.” licensing office at 480-2394 Prices are being increased According to information or 480-0116. as a necessity to absorb the costs of personnel, supplies, data processing and equip- ment, which have grown over the years. “The fee change will be implemented for all licensing issuances to include initial, renewals, additions to class and reinstatements,” said Staff Sgt. Quinton Franklin, 86th Vehicle Readiness Squadron training validation and operations trainer. “We will have the same applica- tion with no changes to the process.” The United States Army Europe Registry of Motor Vehicles will be increasing A temporary change to the the price of licenses and vehicle registrations starting Oct. 1. Vehicle registra- available types of payments tion will increase from $30 to $35, and USAREUR licenses will increase from has also been made. Only $10 to $20. Page 10 Kaiserslautern American September 23, 2016 Farmers market takes place in Schneckenhausen Courtesy photos The North Palatinate Farmers Market in Schneckenhausen features a tractor exhibition Sunday Visitors can admire mini ponies at the North Palatinate Farmers Market Sunday in in Schneckenhausen. Schneckenhausen. by Petra Lessoing delicacies. The biggest organic strations and apple juice squeezing. 86th Airlift Wing Public Affairs farmer in Rheinland-Pfalz will pres- Children will find ponies, chick- ent his honey. Freshly baked bread ens, ducks and rabbits in a petting The Sixth North Palatinate just for this market will be served zoo and can participate in games. Farmers Market will take place as well as fish from regional ponds. Besides the food specialties by from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday in Also available will be crepes filled farmers and wines by regional vint- Schneckenhausen. Regional farmers with Palatinate and French marma- ners, local women will serve home- and vendors will present items of lades, various kinds of wurst and made cakes in the Buergerhaus. high quality at more than 60 stands. cheese, and selected whiskeys. Here, there will be a chance to taste The event will also feature a tractor Visitors will also find stands with the “Bizzler,” the first new wine display and thresher demonstration. handmade wooden bowls, jewelry, of the year, which tastes more like The market is known for fresh pottery items and wool products. grape juice and contains less alco- regional products such as pumpkins, The market features a display of hol. honey, liquors and juices. old tractors and historical agricul- For more information, visit www. Vendors and farmers sell their products at the Visitors will be able to taste the tural equipment, threshing demon- otterbach-otterberg.de. farmers market Sunday in Schneckenhausen. KMC health care providers prepare for flu vaccinations Courtesy of Landstuhl Regional nity events sponsored by Landstuhl the annual flu vaccination is not only Some people, such as the elderly, Medical Center Public Affairs Regional Medical Center, the flu a recommendation; it is a require- young children, pregnant women vaccine will be offered to benefi- ment. These people should receive and people with certain health con- Army and Air Force medical offi- ciaries ages 4 years and older. The information from their unit or orga- ditions are at higher risk for serious cials are developing plans for all minimum eligibility age for flu vac- nization for guidance on when and flu complications. The best way to service members, family members, cine will be highlighted for each where they will receive their vac- prevent the flu is to receive the sea- Department of Defense civilians and community event in the KMC flu cination. sonal flu vaccination each year. other eligible beneficiaries in the schedule, to be published at a later Both military and civilian ben- The flu season in Europe rou- KMC to receive the flu vaccination. date. If the flu vaccine is not avail- eficiaries are encouraged to attend tinely continues through April, Multiple flu vaccination opportuni- able at a community event for those one of the upcoming flu vaccina- with the greatest number of cases ties will be available throughout younger than 4 years of age, they tion events, which are provided as a occurring in January. Vaccine the KMC. Times, dates and loca- should receive their vaccination convenience as wait times should be and immunization information tions will be publicized once the flu at their military treatment facility shorter than those expected at KMC is available at the CDC website schedule is finalized. pediatric clinic. immunization clinics. at www.cdc.gov/vaccines and the Army and Air Force health pro- The FluMist nasal spray will not It is estimated that each year in the Department of Defense Military fessionals recommend the flu vac- be provided this year. Based on data U.S. an average of 5 to 20 percent of Vaccine Agency website at www. cine for everyone ages 6 months and showing lower effectiveness of the the population gets the flu and more vaccines.mil. older. FluMist compared to the injectable than 200,000 people are hospitalized Other resources for information At Air Force community outreach flu vaccine, the Advisory Committee from seasonal flu-related complica- include: flu events, the vaccine will be pro- on Immunization Practices for the tions. Flu seasons are unpredictable • Ramstein Immunization Clinic, vided to beneficiaries ages 6 months Centers for Disease Control and and can be severe. 479-2549 or 06371-46-2549 and older. Prevention recommends not using During a period of 30 years, • LRMC Allergy and At Army community outreach flu FluMist during the 2016-2017 flu between 1976 and 2006, estimates Immunization Clinic, 590-5816 or events sponsored by the Kleber season. It is Department of Defense of flu-associated deaths in the U.S. 06371-9464-5816 Health Clinic and Baumholder policy to follow the annual ACIP range from a low near 3,000 to a high • Kleber Army Health Clinic, Health Clinic, the flu vaccine will influenza recommendations. of about 49,000 people, according to 590-2615 or 06371-9464-2615 be provided to beneficiaries ages 6 For many, such as military service the Centers for Disease Control and • Baumholder Army Health Clinic, months and older. At Army commu- members and health care workers, Prevention. 590-1135 or 06371-9464-1135