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    ON-FINAL NEWS BULLETIN -- JUNE 8, 2019 (Vol 39, No. 6)

    On-Final News Bulletin - June 8, 2019

    Photo By Lauren Kelly | A 507th Air Refueling Wing KC-135R Stratotanker flown by pilots Capt. Chris Nutt and...... read more read more

    TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, OK, UNITED STATES

    06.08.2019

    Story by Tech. Sgt. Samantha Mathison 

    507th Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

    ON-FINAL NEWS BULLETIN – June 8, 2019 (Vol 39, No. 6)


    Okies support NATO exercise
    Astral Knight is an exercise taking place throughout various locations in Europe, involving over 900 Airmen and supports the collective defense and security of NATO allies and U.S. forces in Europe. A 507th Air Refueling Wing KC-135R Stratotanker flown by pilots Capt. Chris Nutt and 1st Lt. Cody Rosecrans from Tinker Air Force Base, Oklahoma, lead a formation of U.S. and Italian Air Forces aircraft consisting of F-35 Lightning IIs, F-16 Fighting Falcons and a B-52 Stratofortress over the Adriatic Sea during Astral Knight 19, June 4, 2019.

    Star Spangled Salute Air and Space Show a success at Tinker
    Sounds of jet engines filled the air as the U.S. Navy Blue Angels headlined the 2019 Tinker Air Force Base Star Spangled Salute Air and Space Show June 1-2 in Midwest City, Oklahoma. This year’s Air Show theme, “Saluting our United States Armed Forces, Past, Present and Future,” honored the men and women who served our country and commemorated the 75th Anniversary of D-Day.

    Okies support exercise Northern Edge
    Reserve Citizen Airmen from the 507th Air Refueling Wing joined approximately 10,000 U.S. military personnel participating in exercise Northern Edge 2019, a joint training exercise hosted by U.S. Pacific Air Forces on and above the central Alaska ranges and the Gulf of Alaska May 13-24, 2019.

    507th ARW June Enlisted promotions
    Click the link above to see the 507th Air Refueling Wing’s newest enlisted promotees.

    507th ARW announces quarterly award winners
    On May 5, leadership from the 507th Air Refueling Wing here announced the 1st quarter award winners for 2019 at the wing commander’s call at the base theater.

    VIDEO: Surprise homecoming
    Lt. Col. Stephen Williams, a Reserve Citizen Airman with the 513th Air Control Group, returned home to Oklahoma City to surprise his three sons at an OKC Dodgers baseball game May 10, 2019. Williams was deployed to Southwest Asia performing duties as part of Operation Resolute Support. Welcome home!

    Reserve dining schedule to remain in effect
    Effective May 4, Tinker Air Force Base Reservists will receive their meals in Café 3001 and Golden Corral, until the renovation of the Vanwey Dining Facility is complete in the fall.
    UTA Dining Schedule:
    Breakfast: 0530-0700
    Location: Café 3001, located at on the south end of the Bldg. 3001 in Area C

    Lunch: 1100-1330
    Location: Café 3001, located at on the south end of the Bldg. 3001 in Area C

    Dinner *Saturday ONLY: 1630-1830
    Location: Golden Corral, located at 617 S. Air Depot Blvd

    Tinker Reservists earn CCAF degrees
    Two Reserve Citizen Airmen in the 507th Air Refueling Wing here received their Community College of the Air Force diplomas May 5, 2019, during commander’s call at the base theater. Seven other members of the wing also earned their degrees, along with seven Reservists in the 513th Air Control Group.

    Wilson praises Airmen, expresses gratitude in farewell remarks reflecting on her tenure as Air Force Secretary
    She praised the skill and dedication of Airmen while comparing lessons learned from gardening as a corollary for the qualities that make for good leaders and an effective Air Force secretary. You need a plan, she said; you need friends to help, meaning allies, and “as long as it’s safe, let people tinker with the tools.”
    Fiscal Year 2020 UTA schedule available

    Secretary, chief of staff initiate dialogue with commanders on a plan for new officer promotion categories
    The memo explains the proposed change and directs commanders to solicit and provide feedback from officers to major command commanders by July 31, with “a final recommendation due to the secretary and chief not later than 30 August 2019.”

    Air Force introduces Two-line Promotion Recommendation Forms for officer promotions
    The Air Force is transitioning to a new Two-Line Promotion Recommendation Form (PRF), for officers effective September 2019.

    Air Force announces partnership with FAA
    This effort aims to ensure the continued and long-range health and safety of the aviation industry by collaborating to inspire a passion for aviation in the next generation.

    Flight equipment redesigned to better fit female aviators
    Flight equipment is on its way through a major overhaul. The biggest change coming to the equipment is it is being designed with measurements from female aviators.

    Changes to Post-9/11 GI Bill transfers effective July 2019
    The transferability option under the Post-9/11 GI Bill allows Service members to transfer all or some unused benefits to their spouse or dependent children. The request to transfer unused GI Bill benefits to eligible dependents must be completed while serving as an active member of the Armed Forces.
    The Department of Defense (DoD) determines whether or not you can transfer benefits to your family. Once the DoD approves benefits for transfer, the new beneficiaries apply for them at VA.

    Summer – A time to enjoy family, friends and practice good risk management
    As Airmen approach and plan for summer activities, leadership at all levels should take the time to discuss risk management and highlight hazards Airmen may encounter during the upcoming months. The Air Force’s top three leaders began that conversation in a tri-signature memorandum recently sent to all Airmen.



    MESSAGES FROM AIR FORCE LEADERS

    Memorandum from the 72nd Air Base Wing Commander May 30, 2019

    SUBJECT: Tinker AFB Tobacco Use Policy

    1. Tinker AFB is committed to providing an environment that does not encourage or facilitate the initiation or continued use of tobacco. AFI 40-102, Tobacco-Free Living, established policy governing tobacco use on the installation to minimize the adverse impact of tobacco use on health and fitness, mission readiness, and unit performance. It applies to all military and civilian personnel, to include Air Force, Air Force Reserve Command units, and Navy personnel. Further, it applies to contractor employees, non-DoD personnel, and members of the public visiting or using Federal facilities on the installation. The directive guides mission partners including commanders and leaders in establishing policies that support unit healthy living.

    2. AFI 40-102, defines tobacco as all products that may be configured to deliver nicotine, including but not limited to: cigars, cigarillos, cigarettes, electronic cigarettes ( e-cigarettes ), stem pipes, water pipes, hookahs, vaporizers, smokeless products that are chewed, dipped, sniffed or "vaped", and any other nicotine delivery system that the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) defines as a tobacco product. NOTE: The definition of tobacco does not include FDA-approved prescriptions or over-the-counter nicotine replacement therapy.

    3. The Tobacco Use policy will be implemented IAW requirements outlined in AFI 40-102, Tobacco Free Living, 11 November 2016, and the Department of Defense Instruction Number JOJO.JO, 4 March 2015. Smoking is prohibited in government buildings, warehouses, and aircraft. In accordance with AFMC Memorandum of Agreement (MOA), this also applies to ecigarettes or vaping due to the nature, appearance, and safety concerns consistent with other nicotine products (i.e., cigarettes).

    4. Designated Tobacco Use Areas (DTAs): The installation shall implement and enforce the following minimum standards for DTAs:

    a. Exclusively located outdoors with signage designated as DTAs.

    b. More than 50 feet from building entrances and air intakes to encourage members to live tobacco free and based on risk assessment of secondhand tobacco smoke (STS) exposure to nonsmokers.

    c. All DT A locations must be initially approved by the local Facilities Board, all final DTA approval and signage are coordinated by 72 ABW /CE director.

    d. Any updates to existing DTA structures and/or locations, to include repairs, demolition, removal, and/or replacement, must first be negotiated with AFGE Local 916.

    e. Any waiver requests for DTAs will require 72 ABW/CC approval.

    5. Tobacco users are responsible for keeping DTAs clean and free of cigarette butts and debris. DTAs may be removed if the area around it or leading up to it is cluttered with trash or cigarette butts.

    6. Unit commanders, directors and supervisors are responsible for ensuring tobacco users in their organizations adhere to standards as outlined in this policy memorandum.

    7. Health Promotion (HA WC) will continue to plan, coordinate, and implement targeted tobacco prevention and treatment programs. Health Promotion will also work with the installation's Public Affairs office and the Base Community Action Board (CAB) in providing tobacco use prevention and treatment marketing campaigns. Additionally, Health Promotion offers support and resources to help those seeking to quit tobacco.

    8. The intent of this policy is to provide commanders, directors, and supervisors' uniform guidance so they can enforce this policy and determine penalties for lack of compliance. Commanders, directors, and supervisors are expected to encourage voluntary participation in tobacco treatment programs as mission requirements permit. Our people continue to be our most valuable weapon system and we have the potential to make a significant impact on their quality of life.

    9. My POC on this issue is the Health Promotion Manager, Ms. Laura Crowder, 72 AMDS/SGPZ, who can be reached at (405) 734-5506 or via email at laura.a.crowder4.civ@mail.mil.

    KENYON K. BELL, Colonel, USAF
    Commander




    Memorandum from the Secretary of the Air Force April 30, 2019

    SUBJECT: Air Force Summer Safety

    To the Airmen of the United States Air Force:

    The health and safety of you and your family is our priority. As part of our duty, our Nation trusts us all to exercise diligence in all that we do, watch out for our fellow Airmen, and to take care of ourselves and the ones we love. The Memorial Day holiday weekend is the official start of the 2019 Summer Safety focus period that will run through Labor Day. Over the summer, with more daylight, summer vacations, permanent change of station moves, and continued high operations tempo around the globe, our team is exposed to a higher risk of accidental injuries.

    While your personal safety is paramount, this is also a readiness issue. Over the past decade, preventable accidents on and off-duty have tragically claimed 16 Airmen lives on average per year during the summer months. Additionally, last summer our team suffered 797 accidents that took us away from work for at least one day and added up to a total cost in readiness of over 32 man-years.

    As you execute our Air Force mission or participate in summer activities with your family and friends, please use what you have learned about risk management. Plan for the unexpected, make wise choices, and avoid unnecessary risks. Your families need you, and our Nation needs you to be healthy and fit to accomplish our mission.

    Enjoy the warm weather; get out and have fun with safety in mind. We are privileged to serve with you in the world's most powerful Air Force. We wish you all the best for a happy, safe, and healthy summer.

    Heather Wilson David L. Goldfein
    Secretary of the Air Force General, USAF
    Chief of Staff

    Kaleth O. Wright
    Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force





    Memorandum from the Secretary of the Air Force April 30, 2019

    SUBJECT: Memorial Day Message

    To the Airmen of the United States Air Force,

    151 years ago, citizens gathered at Arlington National Cemetery to honor Civil War Soldiers as part of the inaugural Decoration Day. Today, the citizenry of this great Nation know this observance as Memorial Day. We actively reflect on the sacrifice made by our Airmen, Coast Guardsmen, Marines, Sailors, and Soldiers who gave their last full measure of devotion for our liberty.

    As we remember the guardians of our past, we also express deep gratitude to the 685,000 military and civilian Airmen embodying integrity, service before self, and excellence that overwatch our nation's freedom today.

    This Memorial Day, renew your commitment to the fallen and their families that survived them. Remember our wounded warrior families, ever mindful of the observable and invisible wounds our veterans shoulder, as well. Let us walk through this Memorial Day weekend at all times ready to share in both the joys and adversities of life as we remember their service and sacrifice.

    It is an honor to serve with you.

    Heather Wilson David L. Goldfein
    Secretary of the Air Force General, USAF
    Chief of Staff

    Kaleth O. Wright
    Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force






    Memorandum from the Secretary of the Air Force April 30, 2019

    SUBJECT: Farewell Message

    Airmen,

    A mentor of mine once advised me to, "Always leave the woodpile taller than you found it." In other words, use your time each day to make things better - for our mission, our community, our nation.

    I hope, as I leave the service, you might glance at the woodpile near you and see one thing, one piece of kindling, that has made your life better or your mission easier or more likely to be successful because I served as your Secretary. If you do, I'm glad, and that is enough.

    Please know that I will always be an Airman and an advocate for our service.

    May God bless you and your families. You have the watch.

    Sincerely,

    Heather Wilson
    Secretary of the Air Force



    UPCOMING EVENTS

    Every UTA, 2019 – Finance hosting travel assistance; sign up via SharePoint link
    Financial Management is scheduling members for both RTS and DTS assistance in 30 min. increments starting at 0730 until 1400. Please use the link below to schedule a time. Walk-ins will be helped as usual; however, members who schedule a time will have priority.

    June 9, 2019 – American Flag Retirement Ceremony
    The Midwest City Elks Lodge (8635 SE 15th St) will be holding their annual American Flag Retirement ceremony for old, worn or tattered flags at 1400. If anyone has flags at home that are ready to be replaced or have been replaced, feel free to bring the old ones to the Elks Lodge prior to the event. It’s an awesome ceremony rich in tradition if you’ve never attended one in person.
    For more information, contact Ralph Hawkins at 405-734-6778 or email ralph.hawkins.1@us.af.mil.

    June 2019 – Yellow Ribbon Event
    Location: Orlando, Fla.
    If you received a call to Active Duty in support of a deployment for 75+ days or more, which resulted in separation from your family for the majority of the deployment, you are eligible to attend one pre-deployment event and two post-deployment Yellow Ribbon Events.

    For more information, call Tech. Sgt. Stephanie Charkowski at 405-734-7207 or email stephanie.charkowski@us.af.mil.

    June 10-14, 2019 – Green Belt Training
    The next Continuous Process Improvement Green Belt Training at Tinker will be held 10-14 June 2019 in the 507ARW SFS new training classroom. This FREE class is open to all members of the 507th ARW, 513th ACG and 730th AMTS with approval from member’s supervisor or commander.
    The objective of the Green Belt training is to provide Air Force total force military and civilian members with knowledge on strategic planning, CPI principles, CPI tools, facilitation techniques, and practical problem solving to facilitate their CPI development and Green Belt certification.
    For more information, contact Lt. Col. Kimberly Howerton at 405-734-9732 or email kimberly.howerton.3@us.af.mil.

    June 13-14, 2019 – Mental Health First Aid Class
    Mental Health First Aid is an 8-hour course (1/2 day for 2 days) teaches how to offer initial help in a mental health crisis & connect people to the appropriate resources. Like CPR, Mental Health First Aid prepares participants to interact but first Aiders do not diagnose or provide any counseling or therapy. Target audience is supervisors and anyone who wants to learn more about how to support someone who is experiencing a mental health crisis or just needs support in their disorder.
    Contact the Tinker Community Support Coordinator at 72ABW.CVB.CommunitySptCoord@us.af.mil for any questions.

    June 27, 2019 – FERS Financial Guidance Seminar
    The FERS Financial Guidance seminar/course is a 4-hour class covering basic FERS benefits, Thrift Savings Plan (TSP) contributions, financial/estate planning, debit/credit card reduction and investing for the future. The target audience for this course is FERS employees with 1 to 5 years of service. The goal is to provide earlier education on retirement/investment planning.
    FERS Financial Guidance Seminar (ETMS Course number CE-BA 2080) will take place from 8-12 at Rose State College in the Professional Training and Education Center (PTEC), room 114. The PTEC is at 1720 Hudiburg Dr., Midwest City, OK 73110.
    To sign up, call Javier at 405-739-7538.

    July 2019 – Yellow Ribbon Event
    Location: Chicago, Ill.
    If you received a call to Active Duty in support of a deployment for 75+ days or more, which resulted in separation from your family for the majority of the deployment, you are eligible to attend one pre-deployment event and two post-deployment Yellow Ribbon Events.

    For more information, call Tech. Sgt. Stephanie Charkowski at 405-734-7207 or email stephanie.charkowski@us.af.mil.

    July 15, 2019 – Civilian of the Quarter packages due

    Aug. 2019 – Yellow Ribbon Event
    Location: San Antonio, Texas
    If you received a call to Active Duty in support of a deployment for 75+ days or more, which resulted in separation from your family for the majority of the deployment, you are eligible to attend one pre-deployment event and two post-deployment Yellow Ribbon Events.

    For more information, call Tech. Sgt. Stephanie Charkowski at 405-734-7207 or email stephanie.charkowski@us.af.mil.

    Sep. 7, 2019 – First Sergeant 5K
    Registration/check-in will be at 0945, run start at 1000. It will begin and end in front of the Headquarters building (bldg. 1043) and will consist of a 2 loop course, equaling 3.1 miles.
    Cost is $5 for the run, $15 for just a T-shirt and $20 for both the run and the T-shirt. The shirts are tri-blend material, unisex sizing and very comfortable!
    Volunteers are also needed, so if you’d like to participate in the event as either a runner or volunteer, get with your First Sergeant. All money is due by COB Sunday of August UTA to ensure the shirts are ordered and able to be delivered by the event.
    For more information, contact Master Sgt. Lindsay Newton at 405-582-5847 or email lindsay.newton.1@us.af.mil.

    Sep. 2019 – Yellow Ribbon Event
    Location: Orlando, Fla.
    If you received a call to Active Duty in support of a deployment for 75+ days or more, which resulted in separation from your family for the majority of the deployment, you are eligible to attend one pre-deployment event and two post-deployment Yellow Ribbon Events.

    For more information, call Tech. Sgt. Stephanie Charkowski at 405-734-7207 or email stephanie.charkowski@us.af.mil.

    Nov. 15-19, 2019 – Unit Effectiveness Inspection
    ___________________________________________________________________________________
    If you would like to submit information or photos to the On-final, email us at 507arw.pa2@us.af.mil.

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    NEWS INFO

    Date Taken: 06.08.2019
    Date Posted: 06.08.2019 15:54
    Story ID: 326178
    Location: TINKER AIR FORCE BASE, OK, US

    Web Views: 123
    Downloads: 0

    PUBLIC DOMAIN