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Volume 72 No. 4 August 2020
A TURNING POINT
COMMAND FOCUSES ON RACE RELATIONS, DIVERSITY, INCLUSION
Official Magazine of the Air Force Reserve
From the Top @ AFRCCommander Chief’s View @ AFRC.CCC
BUILDING TRUST IN A TIME WE ARE ALL IN THIS TOGETHER
OF UNCERTAINTY
"Discussing our different life experiences and viewpoints
can be tough, uncomfortable and therefore often
avoided…We can no longer walk by this problem."
-General David L. Goldfein, CSAF
Lt. Gen. Richard Scobee
The ongoing pandemic and the civil implemented unconscious bias training Inclusion officer provides Equal Oppor-
unrest across the nation have given us for our commanders. tunity facilitator training. Further, as a
pause to reflect on the continuing racial Further, the Command Chief is heavily part of our commitment to transparency,
inequality in our society and our Air involved in a think tank with the Chief we have launched the “Share Your Story”
Force. Master Sergeant of the Air Force focused campaign to encourage Airmen to share
Recently, the Command Chief and I on inclusion and fair treatment of all their experiences with discrimination and
were able to have a candid conversation Airmen. what we did to address it – or what we
about racial inequities with a small group While these measures are a start, we can do to better address it in the future. Let’s face it, there is a lot going on in the world right now. Chief Master Sgt. Timothy White is shown here with the Senior Enlisted
of our Reserve Citizen Airmen stationed cannot be successful without your help. Contact your local Public Affairs office if From daily increases in COVID-19 cases, political differences Council at March Air Reserve Base, California, in January, before
at Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, Many of you have already been asked to you want to share your story. amplified during this election year and racial tensions driving COVID-19 social distancing practices were implemented. Left to right
are Chief Master Sgts. Octavio Ortiz, Imelda Johnson, Cynthia Villa,
North Carolina. I am personally grateful provide feedback directly to the Inspector The rifts in society serve as fracture change across our nation, this is an unprecedented and often
Shirley Ozio, White, Travon Dennis, Jim Loper and Billie Baber.
that those Airmen trusted us enough to General’s office via an anonymous survey. points for adversaries that seek to exploit difficult time for us all.
provide us their perspectives on the diffi- I encourage absolute candor in giving this our division and we must address them Diversity, equality and addressing racial disparity are top
cult issue of racial inequity. feedback, as it will provide insight into decisively. In the face of civil unrest priorities for not only the boss and me, but also the Department nothing. Please join the boss and me in making our command a
We encourage leaders at all levels to our blind spots. and a global pandemic, you have shown of the Air Force. We are listening to your concerns and recom- place where people of all genders, races, ethnicities, backgrounds
demonstrate caring and build trust by Racial disparity in both disciplinary resiliency, innovation, professionalism and mendations and moving swiftly to make our command the best and sexual orientations experience equality and benefit from the
engaging in tough but crucial conver- actions and career development oppor- courage. We must now show empathy. it can be. To be honest, this is long overdue. same career opportunities.
sations about our values, focusing on tunities undermines both institutional Many members of our Reserve family I have been honored to speak with Airmen at several units If you need help navigating this uncomfortable territory,
inclusion, especially with regard to race. and interpersonal trust, which underpin are anxious right now. Reaching out, over the past few months about how systemic racism and please don’t hesitate to reach out to our resident expert, Lee
It is hard to have these discussions, yet mission success. Addressing these issues listening and allowing your fellow Citizen inequality permeates our ranks. These are challenging conversa- Floyd, the chief Diversity and Inclusion officer at AFRC HQ. I
respectful and apolitical conversations will is central to one of our Air Force Reserve Airmen to express their emotions is tions to have. I don’t pretend to have all of the answers, but I am respect Lee tremendously as a friend and teammate, and admire
forge a path toward positive change. priorities: Developing Resilient Leaders. critical toward building the trust neces- thankful we are starting a dialogue, reaching out for help and his ability to facilitate crucial conversations. If you have a sug-
This is also a time for self-reflection Systemic racial disparities undermine sary to defend against those who see this clarity when needed, and practicing empathy when we might gestion for me and the boss on what we can do to improve our
and understanding that we may have the ability for even the most determined moment of division as an opportunity. not understand. organization, please reach out to me at afrc.ccc@us.af.mil.
unconscious bias. leaders to build trust within their units. The Command Chief and I are proud This is the stuff that matters and it is a subject not to be taken Lastly, please take care of yourself, your family and your
The Department of the Air Force The Civil Rights Act of 1964 to serve with each of you and have the lightly. As one of my favorite thought leaders, Brene Brown, fellow wingmen, especially during these challenging and difficult
is taking a hard internal look at racial addressed many issues surrounding racial utmost confidence that you will continue stated, “We are in a fight for the dignity of human beings.” times. As always, it’s an honor and privilege serving as your
injustice. In addition to this review, the inequality; however, it did not prevent to rise to meet future challenges. ■ On June 9, the Department of the Air Force stood up the chief. ■
Air Force Reserve will conduct our own continuing racial injustices from occur- Diversity and Inclusion Task Force to tackle some of these
review to assess potential discriminatory ring in our society. tough problems, change polices and remove barriers to serving.
practices within the command. This is a complex problem without In one short month, the task force has made great strides by
The Command Chief and I are com- simple or short-term solutions. Instead, it revising dress and appearance regulations, implementing uncon-
mitted to both objectivity and transpar- is a call to continually commit ourselves scious bias training, improving shaving waiver procedures and
ency in this process. As an organization, to improve the environment in which we working to increase ROTC scholarships for minority serving
RICHARD W. SCOBEE TIMOTHY C. WHITE JR.
we have already appointed advisors serve, to include all Citizen Airmen. Lieutenant General, USAF institutions. This is real progress and I’m hopeful more positive Chief Master Sergeant, USAF
to the Air Force Inspector General’s To help your unit engage in critical Chief of Air Force Reserve changes are to come. Senior Enlisted Advisor to the Chief of Air Force Reserve
Racial Diversity Review. We have also conversations, our chief Diversity and Commander, Air Force Reserve Command We are all in this together…the worst thing we can do is Command Chief Master Sergeant, Air Force Reserve Command
2 // August 2020 August 2020 // 3
www.citamn.afrc.af.mil Table of CONTENTS Leadership
Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr.
Chief of Staff, United States Air Force
Volume 72 No. 4 // August 2020 FEATURED STORIES NEWS & PEOPLE Lt. Gen. Richard Scobee
Commander, Air Force Reserve Command
13
Col. Beth Horine
Reserve Ravens Director, Public Affairs,
AFRC looks for Security Forces to fill critical new positions Air Force Reserve Command
17
Magazine Staff
A Winding Path Bo Joyner
Editor, Public Affairs,
Recruiter follows unusual road to success Air Force Reserve Command
19
Anthony Burns
ARPC Graphic Designer, Public Affairs,
Creates safe space for honest conversations Air Force Reserve Command
24
Contributing Writers
The Reserve Hypersonics Team Staff Sgt. Tara R. Abrahams, Master Sgt. Chance
Citizen Airmen and the really fast Air Force of the future Babin, Staff Sgt. Katrina M. Brisbin, Raoul
Fischer, and Tech. Sgt. Josh Williams
Maintaining Readiness
26
Citizen Airman magazine (ISSN No. 0887-9680)
is published bi-monthly by Headquarters Air Force
Acquisition Reservists and Air Force's COVID-19 response Reserve Command Office of Public Affairs for the
commander of Air Force Reserve Command.
27
Airman 1st Class Jacob Derry
Periodical postage paid at Warner Robins, Georgia,
Cyber Resiliency and additional mailing offices. Copies are mailed, free
Reservist a critical part of efforts to keep weapon systems safe
06 14 20
of charge, to the homes of all Reservists. Content is
Joshua J. Seybert
normally news articles and features developed for
Courtesy photo
28
release to commercial media as part of the Air Force
Motivated by His Kids Reserve’s continuing public affairs program. Opinions
Deployed enlisted defender earns doctoral degree of contributors are not necessarily those of the Air
Force Reserve. All photos are U.S. Air Force photos
A Turning Pegasus Lands in A Different Kind
29
unless otherwise indicated. Readers-per-copy ratio:
HQ RIO: Medical IMAs 4-1. Send inquiries and submissions to HQ AFRC/PAOM,
155 Richard Ray Blvd., Robins AFB, GA 31098-1661.
Point North Carolina of Enemy Mobilized for historic COVID-19 response Or, email them to hqafrc.pa.citizenairman@us.af.mil.
30
For questions about the magazine or its contents, call
National events spur Reserve to take 916th Air Refueling Wing receives Reserve medics discuss what it's like Determined to Serve (478) 327-1771 or DSN 497-1771.
a closer look at race relations, its first KC-46 to battle COVID-19 Critical care nurse joins the Reserve at age 50 Moving? PLEASE DO NOT SEND CHANGES OF
diversity, inclusion ADDRESS TO CITIZEN AIRMAN. To continue receiving
Reserve Citizen Airmen assigned to the 307th Medical Squadron return to Barksdale the magazine, unit Reservists, as well as people
Air Force Base, Louisiana, after helping with COVID-19 relief efforts in New York City. serving a statutory tour of duty, should send a change
of address to their military personnel flight or unit
orderly room. Individual mobilization augmentees
ON THE COVER:
should call the Total Force Service Center-Denver
toll free at 1-800-525-0102 or DSN 665-0102.
Airmen assigned to the 911th Airlift Wing pose for a photo at Pittsburgh POSTMASTER: Please send all Forms 3579 to Citizen
International Airport Air Reserve Station, Pennsylvania. The 911th AW, like every Airman, HQ AFRC/PAOM, 155 Richard Ray Blvd., Robins
Master Sgt. Ted Daigle
AFB, GA 31098-1661.
organization within the Air Force Reserve, is made up of many individuals with
diverse backgrounds. For more on the Reserve's renewed look at diversity,
inclusion and race relations, see the story on page 6. ( Joshua J. Seybert)
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
A Turning Point
The spring and summer of 2020 will long be remembered as Force Reserve Command, and Chief Master Sgt. Timothy
a tumultuous and pivotal time in our nation’s history – a time of White, Scobee’s senior enlisted advisor and AFRC command
civil unrest, protests and demonstrations. The deaths of Ahmaud chief master sergeant, said in a recent message to all members of
Arbery, Breonna Taylor, George Floyd and other African Amer- the Reserve team.
icans inspired thousands to take to the streets to demand an end “The command chief and I have taken steps every day of our
National events spur Reserve to to racial profiling, discrimination and injustice.
African Americans who have long felt they were unfairly
careers to foster an environment where every Reserve Citizen
Airman is treated fairly, is valued, and feels their contributions are
take a closer look at race relations, targeted by police officers were joined by people of all kinds and
colors demanding immediate change. The social unrest sparked
valued regardless of race, ethnicity, gender or orientation…and
we will not stop. But there is more we all can do," Scobee said.
diversity, inclusion countless conversations around the world about equality, race
relations, diversity and inclusion. It also sparked an awakening
“Chief White and I have already begun exploring ways we
can engender a more equitable environment within the Air
within the Air Force and Air Force Reserve as senior leaders Force Reserve. We encourage you to begin by taking this oppor-
called for all Airmen to take an introspective look at where they tunity to have those tough conversations about our values and
stand on diversity, inclusion and equal treatment, and what they treating everyone with decency, respect and equality, especially
By Bo Joyner can do to improve race relations within the ranks. with regard to race. Often times it is hard to have these discus-
As the photos on these two pages and the pages that follow help illustrate, the Air Force Reserve is an amazingly diverse organization comprised of “Our society is imperfect, but each of us can make positive sions, yet respectful and apolitical conversations have served as a
people from different races, cultures and backgrounds. Recent events across the nation have prompted the Reserve to take a closer look at where it stands changes within our spheres of influence,” Lt. Gen. Richard catalyst for change and are the bedrock this country will survive
on diversity, inclusion and equal treatment, and what it can do to improve race relations. Scobee, chief of the Air Force Reserve and commander of Air on. It shows you care.”
6 // August 2020 August 2020 // 7
Lee Floyd, AFRC’s Diversity and Inclusion officer, has been ethnic heritage. About 72% of the Reserve population is male he said. “And, by far, the most diverse aspect of our command is White, AFRC’s command chief and a police officer in his a part of hundreds of these conversations over the years, and he and 28% is female. our people. By seeking diversity and respecting individuals with home state of California, was one of many police officers who knows they can sometimes be difficult. When looking at diversity by the numbers, Floyd said AFRC different backgrounds and different perspectives, we are stronger spoke out strongly following Floyd’s death. “It’s not easy to sit down with people who don’t look like you compares favorably to both the Air Force and the Department and more effective. Ultimately, our diversity enhances our ability “I stand shoulder-to-shoulder with the vast majority of my do and don’t have the same background as you and really open of Defense. to generate combat power for America.” law enforcement brothers and sisters in blue, of all races, who are up and share your feelings, your biases and your prejudices,” "But numbers are a tricky thing," he said. "What we are Air Force and Reserve senior leaders were quick to speak equally outraged over this and other incidents where the oath Floyd said. “But it’s critical that we have these conversations if hoping to do is establish a highly effective, efficient and harmo- forcefully about the issue of racial equality following George we took to serve and protect was not honored,” he said. “These we are going to get to a point where we truly embrace diversity, niously diverse work force where everyone is treated fairly based Floyd’s death in late May. officers and incidents do not represent us; they disgust us, they treat everyone equally and celebrate the differences that every- solely on merit, fitness and capability. And you can't do that Then-Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Kaleth Wright dishonor us, they disgrace us.” body brings to the table.” by simply tracking numbers. The Air Force Reserve is diverse. posted a lengthy message about his experiences as a Black Gen. Charles Q. Brown Jr., who will become the new Air If you look strictly at the numbers, the Air Force Reserve does What we need to work on is the inclusion piece of the puzzle enlisted leader and declared, “I am George Floyd.” Force chief of staff in August, posted an emotional video in pretty well in the area of diversity. Floyd’s latest numbers show and making sure we include everyone, give everyone the same Then-Chief of Staff David Goldfein denounced Floyd’s which he talked about the challenges of being a Black man. He that the Air Force Reserve is about 69% white, 17% black, 11% opportunities and don’t discount what somebody else brings to death during an encounter with Minneapolis police, calling it a will be the first Black man in U.S. history to serve as chief of Hispanic, 4% Asian, 1% Alaskan Native/American Indian and the fight just because they don’t share your same viewpoints.” national tragedy. Goldfein and Wright then held a virtual town staff of a military service. 1% Native Hawaiian/ Pacific Islander. Hispanic is considered an Scobee has repeatedly touted the Reserve’s diversity over the hall online to talk about racial issues in the Air Force. One of Brown’s first actions was to select Chief Master Sgt. ethnicity, not a racial category, that is registered separately and years and said he thinks diversity is one of the Reserve’s greatest “This is not a Minneapolis issue, this is an Air Force issue,” JoAnne Bass as the 19th chief master sergeant of the Air Force. in addition to the other racial categories. In addition, about 8% strengths. Goldfein said. “What goes on in the streets of America, we She will be the first woman in history to serve as the highest of Reservists decline to provide information about their racial or “The Air Force Reserve is an amazingly diverse organization,” know is going on to a certain extent in the Air Force.” ranking noncommissioned member of a U.S. military service. 8 // August 2020 August 2020 // 9
Diversity and Inclusion: bring our civilian selves into our military life and close our civilian
The Urgency of Now eyes while in uniform? Whether we wear the uniform or not, we
still view the world through the same lenses.
Regardless, there are no rose-colored glasses that will paint a
By G. Lee Floyd pretty, nonracial, unbiased picture. Therein lies the problem. What
you do, see and feel as a civilian is also the same sight, actions and
“We the people of the United States of America in order to form a more feelings that are with you on drill weekends, TDYs, deployments
perfect union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for and annual tours.
the common defense, promote the general welfare and secure the blessings In obtaining this long overdue change, we must not be guilty of
of liberty to ourselves and our prosperity.” wrongful deeds. Let us not seek to satisfy our thirst for equality by
The preamble to the Constitution of the United States promises drinking from the cup of bitterness and hatred. We must always
all citizens five key elements: Justice – reasonable and fair treat- conduct our struggle with the utmost dignity and discipline.
ment not just for some, but for all. Tranquility – peace of mind and And so, it becomes increasingly clear that Reserve Citizen
the right to live free of oppression and discrimination. Defense – As a result of what has been happening around the want to make sure our Air and Space Professionals are Airmen are tied to the Citizen and, more importantly, we are one in
against all enemies foreign and domestic. Welfare – all the health, country over the past few months, the Air Force has able to share their experiences and concerns, and we want the same.
happiness and fortunes this country has to offer. Liberty – freedom initiated an immediate and comprehensive review of racial to empower them to be a part of the solution. Their voices These past few weeks have challenged us to our core. The country
from oppressive restrictions imposed by authority on one’s way of disparity within the service. will be heard and captured for the record. We have a tre- has been forced to come to terms with some painful realities. We
life, behavior or political views. The review will be conducted in two phases. Phase one mendous opportunity here, and we will not waste it.” are aware of serious inequities that currently exist in the country,
Unfortunately, the events of the past few months have made it will assess African American racial disparity in uniformed Enlisted, civilian and officer Airmen and Space DoD, Air Force and, more specifically, the Air Force Reserve.
soberingly clear that there is a large segment of our population who military discipline processes. Phase two will focus on professionals across the services are being asked to take Knowing is only part of the equation. Now comes the hard part
believes the country has reneged on these promises. African American racial disparity in leader development an anonymous email survey facilitated by the Air Force – self-evaluation. If we are to grow as a country, grow as a people
As a result of the recent social unrest across our country, we find systems, including enlisted, civilians and officers. Survey Office. This survey will allow all enlisted, civilian and grow as an organization, we must begin the sometimes-painful
ourselves perched upon the cliffs of hope overlooking the dawn of “We recognize other disparities exist, and these should and officer members to voluntarily and anonymously share practice of self-evaluation.
a new era – an era in which every citizen can recognize his or her be reviewed as well,” an Air Force News Service story said their experiences and thoughts on potential solutions. Self-evaluation will help us garner an appreciation and under-
unalienable rights of life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness. in announcing the review. “However, for this immediate Col. Eltressa Spencer, the director of AFRC’s Com- standing of who we are as individuals. In addition, we should be
As Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. so eloquently stated in his famous effort to be effective and result in lasting and meaningful mander’s Action Group, is one of two AFRC represen- able to determine if we are or have been a barrier to someone else’s
“I Have a Dream” speech, there is an urgency of now! change, it must be narrowly targeted. The efforts that will tatives on the Air Force’s racial disparity review team. progression.
The Air Force Reserve has long been a leader within the Depart- be undertaken upon the completion of this review will not She raised her hand immediately when the call came out Over the past several weeks, I’ve had the honor of facilitating
ment of Defense in the areas of diversity and inclusion. We can be exclusive to a single minority group. We’re confident seeking volunteers to serve on the team. and participating in numerous guided discussions on race relations.
continue to lead the way or we can fall prey to the false sense of the lessons we’ll learn and recommendations we’ll provide “It was a no-brainer,” she said. “This is an extremely These have been extremely intense and soul wrenching sessions that
accomplishment through gradualism. will benefit all of our Airmen and Space Professionals.” important topic that I am very passionate about and I reveal and uncover the many wounds carried by our Reserve Citizen
The urgency of now requires courage and immediate action: The Air Force Inspector General team has already wanted to be part of the solution. This is an issue that will Airmen brothers and sisters.
courage to challenge unconscious biases and deep-rooted socializa- begun to gather information contained in a wide array of take some time to solve, understanding we did not get I was, and continue to be, heartbroken by some of the stories I
tion that makes us who we are, and courage to talk to and listen to previous reports, studies and various databases across the here overnight. This problem is a result of generations of heard. Our courageous team members told their stories in a non-
those who do not look, talk, think or believe the same as we do. Department of the Air Force. Although the data is help- societal injustice and mistreatment of African Americans. threatening, safe environment that provided a much-needed portal
Then there must be immediate and meaningful action: action ful, the most important information will come directly I have had many opportunities to progress in my career, to share some of their most personal, private and painful experi-
that is lasting and not temporary, and action that will ensure every from Airmen and Space Professionals. and feel very fortunate to have made it to the rank of ences. I was amazed at the sympathy and empathy shown during
Reserve Citizen Airman feels and believes he or she is a valued and “It is critical that we hear from you because you are a colonel, especially considering I am prior enlisted. I do these crucial conversations.
integral part of team AFRC. central part of the solution,” the news release said. “We realize however, that everyone, particularly other people I want you to know that Lt. Gen. Scobee, Chief Master Sgt.
The fact that we are living in, going through and will emerge White, the entire leadership structure and I are extremely honored
on the other side of turbulent times provides us an opportunity to to serve with each of you. We want you to know and believe you are
affect an everlasting paradigm shifting change. truly a valued and integral part of this team.
As Mahatma Gandhi said, it is imperative that we recognize our We want you to know we recognize and value the differences
greatest ability as humans is not to change the world, but to change each of you bring to the fight. We want you to know if we’ve
ourselves. made you feel as though we were not listening to you in the past,
Change, however, takes time, and changing perceptions requires we endeavor to ensure you know we are listening to you moving
patience and persistence. We must work to change the mindset of forward.
those who view the military as a safe haven – a place where there is Please continue to engage in the difficult discussions we’ve
no racism, no sexism and the thought that everyone is on the same started. Be sure to acknowledge, appreciate and respect each other.
team, when in actuality, nothing could be further from the truth. Always remember that diversity is our strength and inclusion will
The Air Force Reserve is a microcosm of society. Are we to enable us to fly, fight and win!
believe that we are different when we put the uniform on? Do we (Floyd is Air Force Reserve’s chief diversity and inclusion officer.) ■
10 // August 2020 August 2020 // 11
By Bo Joyner
Reserve Ravens
of color, are not afforded the same opportunities that I have had. military."
AFRC looking for Security Forces
We must get to the point that every Airman has the opportunity
to grow in the military to their fullest potential, be treated fairly,
Jackson said she is optimistic the Air Force's new racial dis-
parity review team can make a difference.
to fill critical new positions
and of course feel valued.” "It's extremely important that we address this situation now,"
Senior Master Sgt. Kenya Jackson, the aircraft armaments she said. "I'm honored to have the opportunity to serve on the
functional manager in AFRC's Logistics, Engineering and Force team and try to make a difference." Air Force Reserve Command officials are looking for Security “Once they complete the training and certification, members
Protection Directorate, is the command's other representative. As AFRC and the Air Force embark on this renewed effort Forces personnel interested in serving on special teams trained are awarded the special experience identifier, an official Raven
She, too, was quick to volunteer when she heard about the Air to ensure equality and promote diversity and inclusion, Scobee to protect aircraft and aircrews in areas where there is limited or number and authorization to wear the coveted Raven tab on
Force team. encouraged all members of the Reserve team to practice toler- unreliable levels of security. their uniform,” Caldwell said.
"People talk about change all the time, but I truly want to be ance and embrace diversity. “AFRC formalized its Phoenix Raven program in October of AFRC Raven UTC grade authorizations are staff sergeant
part of the change," she said. "Growing up in southern Cali- “Our diversity is our strength,” he said. “Our individual, 2019,” said Chief Master Sgt. Michael Caldwell, AFRC Security through master sergeant, and are located only at identified hub
fornia, I grew up in a true melting pot where there were people unique perspectives make us an effective team. What binds our Forces manager. “We’ve had individual Ravens for many years, locations. Individuals interested in becoming a Raven should
from all different races, cultures and backgrounds. In my middle team together is greater than what separates us. I encourage you but this is the first time we have had a fully functional program work with their chain of command and HQ AFRC/A4S. For
school, there were probably 40 different languages spoken. I'm to remain true to our core values – integrity first, service before with Raven unit type codes.” more career broadening and developmental opportunities, con-
not saying everybody always got along, but I don't remember self and excellence in all we do.” #ReserveReady #ReserveResilient Caldwell said AFRC developed its program in conjunction tact Caldwell at michael.caldwell.4@us.af.mil. #ReserveReady
anybody having a problem with somebody else just because #ReserveReform ■ with Air Mobility Command and currently has 42 new Raven #ReserveReform ■
of the color of their skin. I can't say the same thing about our positions spread across five bases.
Air Force Reserve Command is looking for Security Forces personnel to
Air Force. I never truly experienced racism until I joined the “These five hubs were strategically placed at key locations join the Phoenix Raven program. Ravens are specially trained to protect
throughout the United States, geographically close to air bases aircraft and aircrews in areas where there is limited or unreliable levels
with strategic airlift capabilities,” Caldwell said. of security.
#ShareYourStory “The Phoenix Raven program is critical because it provides
AFRC with the organic capability to secure our aircraft in some
In light of the Air Force’s renewed she has addressed challenges in any area #ReserveResilient. of the most vulnerable and unpredictable locations across the
focus on diversity and inclusion, the – be it gender, sexual orientation, sub- “We learn from each other’s stories globe.”
Headquarters Air Force Reserve stance abuse, religious beliefs, adverse and their perspectives,” Horine said. Raven teams help detect, deter and counter threats to aircraft
Command Public Affairs Office has UCMJ actions, rising out of poverty “That can help us develop a better by performing close-in aircraft security; advising aircrews on
launched its #ShareYourStory cam- or any of the many other stories that understanding of the differences that force protection measures; conducting airfield assessments; and
paign – a unique opportunity for mem- are out there,” said Col. Beth Horine, ultimately make a more inclusive Air assisting aircrews in the performance of their duties when not
bers of the Reserve Citizen Airman AFRC’s director of public affairs. Force Reserve culture for all,” Horine performing their primary security duties.
team to share their stories of overcom- Members of the Reserve team said. “In addition to supporting missions at home station, AFRC
ing or addressing discrimination in the are encouraged to record their own For more information, contact your Ravens are staged globally to support combatant commands and
Air Force. #ShareYourStory videos or work with local public affairs office or e-mail various crisis and contingency operations,” Caldwell said.
“While racial discrimination is at the their local public affairs office to tell AFRC.PAWorkflow@us.af.mil. ■ Prospective Ravens must complete 28 days of training at the
top of the Air Force’s list of efforts to their story. Videos should be less than Air Force Expeditionary Center at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-
address right now, we want to welcome 10 minutes in length and should use Lakehurst, New Jersey. Subjects covered include cross-cultural
any Airman with a story of how he or the hashtags #ShareYourStory and awareness, aircraft searches, airfield surveys, de-escalation tech-
niques, weapons proficiency and flight-deck denial.
12 // August 2020 August 2020 // 13
Pegasus Lands in
The first KC-46 Pegasus lands at
Seymour Johnson Air Force Base,
– air refueling, aeromedical evacuation aircraft to meet all FAA requirements as
North Carolina, June 12. and airlift, as well as the ability to operate well as those set forth by the Air Force,”
North Carolina
The KC-46 will fall under the in contested environments,” Lanier said. Birmingham said. “In the training, they
916th Air Refueling Wing, The occasion was the culmination learned how to complete documentation
replacing the KC-135 Stratotanker. of months of preparing for conversion. in accordance with FAA regulations on
(Maj Cruz A. Dolak)
However, the 916th and its subordinate a dual-certified aircraft when aircraft
unit, the 77th ARS, cherished the last system maintenance or modifications
moments they had with the KC-135 need to be accomplished.”
Stratotanker. In the first 72 hours at its new home,
“A large portion of the squadron went each KC-46 will have to undergo a
on the last unit deployment to Turkey,” rigorous inspection to ensure every piece
said Lt. Col. Darin Dial, 77th ARS com- the factory installed made it from the
mander. “We then flew several USAFE assembly floor to Seymour Johnson.
(U.S. Air Forces – Europe) tanker support “This inspection requires 916th tech-
rotations, and topped off KC-135 opera- nicians to inspect and record every major
tions with final missions to Puerto Rico component’s serial number,” Birmingham
and Savannah, Georgia.” said. “Our maintainers will also open
The 77th also helped secure $1.7 panels and complete serviceability inspec-
billion of combat assets during last year’s tions to make sure every system operates
hurricane evacuations. per Boeing, Air Force and FAA technical
“The last 12 months leading up to requirements.”
the arrival of the first KC-46 has been a The 916th is scheduled to receive 12
memorable year,” Dial said. total aircraft through the end of 2021.
While the wing continuously sup- Seymour Johnson is the fourth base to
ported sorties, Airmen started conversion receive the KC-46. McConnell received
training from the KC-135 to the KC-46 the first in January 2019, followed by
last winter. Altus in February 2019 and Pease Air
“In December, we sent our first crew to National Guard Base, New Hampshire, in
Altus AFB, Oklahoma, for KC-46 train- August 2019.
ing,” Dial said. “Since then, we’ve contin- “It’s a rare opportunity to deliver a new
ued to send pilots and boom operators to aircraft to the Air Force,” Dial said. “The
Altus and McConnell AFB, Kansas, for crews feel privileged to take part in this
916th Air Refueling Wing receives its first KC-46 Base fire trucks spray down the first
Pegasus as it lands at Seymour Johnson.
The 916th is scheduled to receive
KC-46 qualification training.”
The maintainers have also been hard
historic moment for the wing.
12 total aircraft through the end of 2021. at work learning the nuances of the new 931st ARW Reaches KC-46 Conversion
From Staff Reports (Senior Airman Jacob B. Derry) aircraft. Milestone
“The KC-46 is completely different At about the same time the 916th was
In a low-key, COVID-compliant Force Reserve and transitioning to the than the 63-plus-year-old aircraft we had receiving its first KC-46, the Reserve’s
closed ceremony on June 12, the Air next generation of airpower,” Scobee said. been previously working on, and very 931st Air Refueling Wing, McConnell
Force Reserve’s 916th Air Refueling “Being able to be here with you for the little of our KC-135 equipment was able AFB, Kansas, reached a milestone in its
Wing, Seymour Johnson Air Force Base, delivery of your first KC-46 Pegasus is to be used to repair and fly the new air own conversion from the KC-135 to the
North Carolina, accepted its first of 12 an honor and really special for me during frame,” said Chief Master Sgt. Michael KC-46.
KC-46 Pegasus aircraft. these trying times.” Birmingham, 916th Maintenance Squad- Wing members gathered on the flight
Lt. Gen. Richard Scobee, chief of the Col. Stephen Lanier, commander of ron superintendent. “We are currently in line June 6 to celebrate the wing’s last
Air Force Reserve and commander of the 916th ARW, was ecstatic to welcome the process of divesting more than 600 KC-135R training flight during a unit
Air Force Reserve Command, and Chief home his 77th Air Refueling Squadron pieces of KC-135 tools and test equip- training assembly.
Master Sgt. Timothy White, senior crew. The closed ceremony marked the ment that cannot be used on the KC-46. Though this was not the last time a
enlisted advisor to the chief of the Air dawning of a new era for the service men The other side of that is we acquired more 931st ARW aircrew would fly a KC-135,
Force Reserve and AFRC’s command and women who serve in the 916th. than 2,500 new pieces of equipment, the flight was the last UTA training flight
chief master sergeant, served as delivery “As the first unit-equipped Air Force designed especially for the KC-46.” in a Stratotanker.
officials and were on board the aircraft as Reserve wing to receive the KC-46, we Along with conversion training, the The KC-135, tail number #58-0124,
it arrived. are poised to leverage our deep knowl- maintainers also learned about Federal departed McConnell early in the morn-
“This KC-46 delivery is a great edge and experience to realize the capa- Aviation Administration regulations. ing as the lead tanker of a combined four-
example of how we are reforming our Air bilities that are inherent in the KC-46 “This will be the first aerial refueling ship formation including three KC-46s.
14 // August 2020 August 2020 // 15
A Winding Path
members, it has travelled worldwide and The KC-46 will eventually replace the
been part of the major forces defending U.S. Air Force's aging fleet of KC-135
the United States. Stratotankers which have been the
Now, after 25 years, many flying hours backbone of the refueling fleet for more
Recruiter follows unusual road to success
and a number of military operations, the than 50 years. The KC-46 will provide
tanker still continues to serve the 931st more refueling capability, an increased
ARW and the 22nd Air Refueling Wing capacity for cargo and modern aeromedi-
to protect its members and the nation; it’s cal evacuation capabilities. #ReserveReady
presence on the flightline shrinking only #ReserveReform
to make way for more KC-46s. (Ashley L. Snipes, 916th ARW public
"It's definitely the end of an era for affairs office, and Tech. Sgt. Abigail Klein,
our flight crews, but our Reservists are 931st ARW public affairs office, contributed
ready," said Col. Kevin Rainey, 931st to this story.) ■
Operations Group commander. "Our
Reserve aircrews are more than prepared A KC-135 Stratotanker lands after flying for
the last time as part of routine training during
and although the KC-135 workhorse the 931st Air Refueling Wing unit training
is an amazing aircraft, it is time to fully assembly June 6, at McConnell Air Force Base,
Lt. Gen. Richard Scobee, Air Force Reserve
Command commander and chief of the Air commit to the KC-46 during our UTAs." Kansas. (Tech. Sgt. Abigail Klein) Bottom, a In his first full year
Force Reserve, helped deliver the first KC-46 The 931st ARW is the first associate McConnell KC-46 refuels another KC-46 on of being an Air Force
to the 916th ARW. (Ashley Snipes) Reserve unit to fly and maintain the new June 10. The aircrafts were carrying Secretary Reserve recruiter,
of the Air Force Barbara Barrett, Senator Jerry Tech. Sgt. Kyle
KC-46. The first Reserve squadron to Hauser met his yearly
Moran and Congressman Ron Estes as Team
The KC-135 aircrew flew to Texas to fly the KC-46, the 924th Air Refueling McConnell aircrews demonstrated the new accession goal in less
refuel it sister Reserve unit, the 301st Squadron, stood up at McConnell in aircraft’s aerial refueling capabilities. than four months.
Fighter Wing at Carswell Air Reserve 2017 to prepare ahead of time. (Airman 1st Class Marc A. Garcia) Hauser has spent his
Base. 14-year Air Force
career bouncing back
The pilots included Lt. Col. Jonathan
and forth between
Flores, Maj. Chris Foote, Capt. Derrick recruiting and air
Lopez and 2nd Lt. Ben Stone from the transportation.
18th Air Refueling Squadron. Master (Courtesy photo)
Sgt. Clay Dotson, 905th Air Refueling
Squadron boom operator, performed air By Master Sgt. Chance Babin
refueling on the flight.
"Knowing it was the last 135 UTA In fiscal year 2020 – Tech. Sgt. Kyle the Navy since my grandpa was in the thought the Air Force is the attractive girl
training sortie, I think of all the past and Hauser’s first full year of being an Air Navy during World War II.” here.”
present members who I’ve had the priv- Force Reserve recruiter – he met his Hauser spoke to recruiters from the Hauser learned a lot about the soft sell
ilege of serving and flying this amazing yearly accession goal in less than four Army, Navy and Marines before finally that day. He didn’t know it at the time,
aircraft with," Dotson said. "We’re now months. How did the personable Airman getting to the back of the office and but that lesson would pay off later when
turning the page to a new chapter in the achieve such remarkable success? By talking to the Air Force recruiter. he was on the other side of the recruiting
931 ARW, with a new weapons system applying what he learned throughout an “Our initial interview made me table.
and the capabilities it will bring to the already successful Air Force career. unsure,” he said. “The recruiter didn’t He enlisted as an air transportation
fight." Hauser, a line recruiter with the seem overly interested. We chatted briefly troop. During his time as a “port dawg,”
To increase the amount of KC-46A 351st Recruiting Squadron at Joint Base and he recommended I do more research he helped convince his little brother,
Pegaus aircrew training and air refueling, Charleston, South Carolina, began his and ended the session. As I walked back cousin and brother-in-law to all join
the three flying squadrons of the 931st Air Force career in 2006, when he was 19. down the long hallway towards the exit, the Air Force. As his first contract was
ARW will no longer fly the KC-135 Looking for a way to pay for college and the Army and Marine recruiters I had approaching the end, Hauser wanted to
during UTAs. This is all part of the gain some independence, he went to a chatted with were in the hallway giving find a different challenge.
continuing familiarization and operations recruiting office in his hometown of Peru, me a second pitch as I tried to leave.” His old supervisor had been a recruiter
testing that began with arrival of the first Illinois, where all four branches were The Air Force recruiter didn’t even take and told him to give it a shot. He applied,
KC-46 in January 2019. represented. his phone number. and soon the young senior Airman was
Since the stand-up of the 931st Air “My plan was to speak with all of the “As I thought about what had hap- on his way to recruiting school.
Refueling Group at Team McConnell in recruiters and gather as much information pened, my 19-year-old self determined it “Recruiting for the active duty was
1995, the KC-135 has been the work- as I could to make my decision,” Hauser was like dating,” he said. “The attractive awesome,” he said. “I immediately loved
horse of McConnell’s Reserve and active said. “I had very limited knowledge of the girl at school wasn’t chasing the guys. She the competition and the autonomy it
duty flying squadrons. Along with its military, but assumed I was going to join was the one being chased. I immediately provided. I was an E-4 with my own
16 // August 2020 August 2020 // 17
Airmen who had been waiting due to October through December – 12-hour Columbia, and they are constantly fun-
COVID-19 sworn in.” days Monday through Friday and even neling people to the right place based on
Fortunately, Hauser reached his yearly some Saturdays – so I can be ahead and the applicant’s needs.
goal several months before COVID-19 enjoy the holidays. This is not a manda- Senior Master Sgt. Anthony Jones,
forced stay-at-home orders. For fiscal year tory recruiting thing but this is how I Hauser’s flight chief, said there are usually
2020, which began on Oct. 1, 2019, he prefer to operate.” pros and cons with getting a prior-service
met his goal of 37 accessions on January While transitioning to the Reserve was recruiter to join his team. This time, the
30, 2020. initially a challenge for Hauser, making pros far outweighed the cons.
“I know I was the first line recruiter the move to working as a Total Force “I found the advantages of having a
to make goal,” Hauser said. “I am only recruiter is a much easier task. prior-service Air Force recruiter on the
in my second year of recruiting for the The Air Force is embarking on a Total team is that he already understood the
Air Force Reserve, but it is unusual for a Force recruiting enterprise approach to general hustle mentality that is needed
line recruiter to make goal as fast as I did. recruit the nation’s best talent. In addition to be successful,” Jones said. “He had
While I may have met my goal, my flight, to recruiting for the regular Air Force, Air experience with explaining Air Force
squadron and command have not made Force Reserve and Air National Guard, benefits and relating to applicants and
goal, so I am still pushing hard to help Total Force recruiting also encompasses families, and he has both active-duty and
accomplish the mission and meet our Air Force Academy admissions, Air Force Air Force Reserve experience.
end-strength number.” civilian service and Air Force ROTC. “The thing that makes him a great
Hauser said he believes his time as a "port dawg" has helped him be a better recruiter. Hauser said he treats the first quar- “I think the Total Force initiative is Airman and great recruiter is that he
His boss said what makes him a great recruiter is the fact that he lives by the ter of the fiscal year like a deployment, awesome,” Hauser said. “This may sound exhibits our Air Force core values. He
Air Force's core values every day. (Courtesy photos) where he grinds it out with little to no crazy but when I joined the Air Force, engages with the team constantly to help
distractions. I had no idea there was an Air Force make everyone better. He is a true force
office in a mall and my flight chief was A chance meeting with an Air Force by watching how the flight interacted “Every October 1st, your year resets Reserve or Air National Guard. I just multiplier for our team.” #ReserveResilient
more than an hour away. I also found the Reserve recruiter at the Travis shoppette as I found my place. I immediately felt with a new goal,” he said. “For me, tack- went to the nearest recruiting office.” (Babin is assigned to the Air Force
accountability refreshing. Your successes led Hauser to become a recruiter in the welcomed and wanted to provide value. ling that first quarter makes the rest of He said he has a great relation- Recruiting Service public affairs office.) ■
and failures were yours alone. You also Reserve. I finished the year at 174% of my goal – my year just feel better. I work long hours ship with an active-duty recruiter in
had a large amount of creative control on “He had his blues on with his gold but had the support from my entire team
how you wanted to meet your goals.” recruiting badge,” Hauser said. “I struck to do it.”
After two successful years as an
enlisted accessions recruiter, Hauser
up a conversation and we chatted about
recruiting. Then I kept running into him
Hauser said one of the first things he
noticed about Reserve recruiting was the ARPC creates safe space for honest conversations
was selected to move into a line officer and it turned out he worked on the first difference in the size of his recruiting
recruiting position and was later tapped floor of the building I worked in.” zone. There were six active-duty recruiters
to manage his squadron’s line officer Hauser initially put in a package and in his area of responsibility. He reached
By Staff Sgt. Katrina M. Brisbin
accessions program. was approved to return to active duty as a back to his past experience of managing
Toward the end of his four-year recruiter, but the timing didn’t work out a large zone as a line officer recruiter on In response to recent national events, Chief Master Sgt. happening and we can’t turn a blind eye to it. I hope everyone
recruiting tour, Hauser began missing to make the switch. active duty. Billi Baber, Headquarters Air Reserve Personnel Center’s is on the same page as far as knowing something is wrong and
the travel and camaraderie of working on With encouragement from the Reserve “Line officer recruiters have large command chief, and Senior Master Sgt. Tony Peel, HQ something needs to be fixed. I think with this generation we can
base with his port dawg team. He opted recruiter and his mentors, Hauser decided zones and tons of interest on active duty,” ARPC’s first sergeant, have hosted a pair of virtual safe-space make a change.”
to go back to his old career field. to make the move from active-duty port he said. “So I had to become familiar with conversations for members of the ARPC team. The overall goal of the conversations was to provide a safe
“I tried everything to talk him out of it, dawg to Reserve recruiter. how to work electronically and be as effi- “We have all experienced a trauma,” Baber said. “This is place for HQ ARPC members to share experiences and get
but one thing about Kyle is his relentless “I felt good about the process, and the cient as possible to maximize my reach.” not a campaign to change anyone’s position. Everyone has a a better understanding of how other people are feeling. The
determination,” said Senior Master Sgt. time line worked out perfectly so I made The experience of working electron- voice and we’re here to make sure everyone is heard with the sessions are just the start of the center’s effort to create a culture
Michael Lear, his supervisor at the time. the transition,” he said. “I am grateful it ically has proven helpful since virtual respect and dignity each of us deserves.” shift within the organization.
“I mean this in the best way, but once worked out and that I had the opportu- recruiting has become a way of life now The video-based gatherings allowed members to have an “I have challenged the people of ARPC to think outside the
his mind is set on something, he stops nity to recruit once again.” for recruiters during the COVID-19 honest conversation about what they have been feeling and box,” Baber said. “My vision is to make diversity and inclusion a
at nothing to achieve it. In this case, he He was able to attend an Air Force pandemic. what they have experienced in the past. The diverse group of part of our continuous professional development. Learning and
loved his last job and there was unfin- Recruiting Service five-day course for “When the schools in South Carolina participants took the time to share personal stories in order understanding each other’s individual experiences on a continual
ished business that needed to be checked prior recruiters as a refresher and to learn closed, my wife and I began schooling to paint a picture of what their experience with race has been. basis will only help us be better supervisors, better leaders and
off.” some intricacies of the Reserve. at home, like most Americans,” he said. “I had no idea so many of my ARPC colleagues had better human beings.” #ReserveResilient #ReserveReform
Stationed at Travis Air Force Base, Stationed at Charleston, Hauser had a “Since then, we have positioned ourselves experienced racism up close,” said Mark Nelson, HQ ARPC (Brisbin is assigned to the HQ ARPC public affairs office.) ■
California, Hauser said he enjoyed being phenomenal first year. to go completely virtual. Our recruiting historian.
back in the air transportation field, but “I attribute that to Team Charleston’s leadership worked hard to get virtual “I’m glad we have this platform,” said Staff Sgt. Breshay
he definitely missed the many challenges culture and high morale,” he said. “I knew enlistments approved, which was a big Strong, HQ ARPC retirements technician. “These things are
recruiting offered. I was on a winning team when I arrived deal. That allowed us to get our new
18 // August 2020 August 2020 // 19A Different Kind of Enemy
Reserve medics discuss what it's like
to battle COVID-19
From Staff Reports
Air Force Reserve medical specialists are highly trained to Albany, New York, who deployed for two months and was
provide critical care to service members injured in battle; they assigned to the Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx. “We had
aren’t typically trained to care for patients fighting for their lives all been watching the news and we knew it was bad, but I didn’t
on ventilators in crowded city hospitals. But that didn’t keep think it was going to be this bad. The entire hospital had basi-
hundreds of Reserve medics from answering their nation’s call cally been turned into one big intensive care unit.” First Lt. Paula
and volunteering to serve on the front lines of America’s battle Fisher, who works at a gastroenterology practice as a civilian, Bomar, 307th
against COVID-19. said he wasn’t used to treating so many critically ill patients. “We Medical Squadron
nurse, arrives home
We spoke with several Reserve Citizen Airmen who deployed see sick patients at our practice, but most of our patients aren’t at Barksdale
to New York City this spring to help overburdened health sys- dying. Here, everybody was on ventilators. They were critically Air Force Base,
tems care for thousands of people infected with the coronavirus. ill with a very high fatality rate. There were patients who were Louisiana, in early
Here’s what we found out. intubated in the ICU when we got there and they were still June. She was one of
“The first thing that hits you is how very sick all of these there when we left. It was unlike anything any of us had ever the first people from
the unit to deploy to
people were,” said Col. Ari Fisher, a physician assistant from seen before.”
New York during
the COVID-19
Air Force Reserve physician assistants who deployed to New York City to serve on the front lines of America's battle against COVID-19 pose for a pandemic. (Master
photo. Left to right are Capt Kamille Resetz, Lt. Col. Matt Bershinsky, Maj. William Steele, Lt. Col. Troy Houston, Capt. Andrew Cruz, Col. Ari Sgt. Ted Daigle)
Fisher and Capt. Heather Duggan. (Army Sgt 1st Class Greg Sanders, 22nd Mobile Public Affairs Detachment)
As the individual mobilization augmentee for the chief worked, Bershinsky said Lincoln was basically turned into one
physician assistant consultant at the Air Force Medical Readi- big ICU.
ness Center, Fisher said he was proud of how Reserve physician “Interestingly, the place where we spent most of our time was
assistants responded to the coronavirus crisis. the mother-baby unit, which had been turned into a makeshift
“There are only about 40 physician assistants in the entire Air ICU,” he said. “There was this crazy dichotomy of bright blue
Force Reserve and there were eight PAs who were on the initial and pink painted walls and nursery windows and it was all over-
deployment of Reserve medical specialists to New York City the ridden by a lot of really sick people fighting for their life.”
first weekend in April,” he said. Bershinsky, who is assigned to the 624th Aeromedical Stag-
Fisher said he was honored to help care for the people hit ing Squadron, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, as a
hardest by COVID-19 and to provide much-needed assistance Reservist, spent 16 years as an Army medic and he said he has
to New York’s overburdened health care workers. never seen anything to compare to this deployment.
“These doctors and nurses were essentially deployed inside “There’s an old saying that no matter how bad things get, at
their own hospital,” he said. “When we got there, they were in least you’re not doing it in MOPP-4 (the highest mission-ori-
desperate need of some rest and some assistance. My only regret ented protective posture requiring full protective gear). This
is that we didn’t get there earlier so we could have helped as whole deployment was done in MOPP-4. We were in full gear
COVID spiked. When we got there, it was actually starting to all day.”
level off a little bit.” Bershinsky said the toughest thing about this deployment was
Lt. Col. Matt Bershinsky, a physician assistant who works having to watch so many sick people battle their illness without
in orthopedic pediatric surgery at the University of Colorado the support of friends or family members at the hospital.
as a civilian, deployed and spent nearly two months serving at “There were no visitors allowed,” he said. “For me, personally,
Lincoln Hospital in the South Bronx. it was exceedingly difficult to watch these people who were
“The hospital is in one of the poorest neighborhoods in New suffering alone. Even the people who were there taking care of
York,” he said. “A lot of the people who live here are very poor them were wearing the equivalent of MOPP-4 so there was no
and there is a high rate of mental illness and disease. These were human connection. You’re wearing masks, goggles, gowns and
the people getting hit especially hard by COVID.” head coverings so you don’t even look human. There was a loss
Like the Jacobi Medical Center in the Bronx where Fisher of humanity for these people. I come from a practice where it’s
20 // August 2020 August 2020 // 21You can also read
