FSS introduced to CAFB, Air Force - Columbus Air Force Base

YK
S ILVER WINGS
“The Base of Choice In the Command of Choice”
Vol. 32, Issue 16 Columbus Air Force Base, Miss. April 18, 2008
ORI Countdown
News Briefs
Monte Carlo Night
Monte Carlo Night will take place tonight at the
Columbus Club. The doors open at 6 p.m. with free
hors d’oeuvres from 6 to 7 p.m. compliments of The
Landings at Columbus, Pinnacle-Hunt. Games are
from 7 to 10 p.m. with the blind auction beginning
at 10 p.m. Prizes valued at almost $1,000 will be auctioned
off. Cost is $10 for club members and $20 for
nonmembers. For more information, call 434-2490.
POW/MIA Golf Tournament
The Golden Triangle Chapter of the Air Force
Association is hosting a golf tournament April 26 at
the Columbus Country Club. There is a 1 p.m. shotgun
start, registrations is from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30
p.m. Entry fee is $50 per player and include green
fees, cart and range balls. Ladies teams and mixed
teams are invited to participate. All proceeds will go
to enlisted, Air Force ROTC and Chris Hainsey
Memorial Scholarships for Civil Air Patrol. For more
information, call 434-2645.
Inside
24
Days until the ORI
Feature 10
C OLUMBUS AFB TRAINING
TRAINING
T IMELINE
P HASE II PHASE III
W ING S ORTIE B OARD
Senior Squadron
Squadron Class Overall Track Select
T-6 37th (09-02) 3.03 day -2.17 days May 13
41st (09-01) 4.92 days -2.05 days April 22
Education and
awareness of the
environment
brought to youth in
this weeks highlight.
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Josh Harbin
Master Sgt. John Berube unveils the new 14th Force Support Squadron guidon at the stand up ceremony
Wednesday. The new FSS is a result of the merger of the Services Division and the 14th Mission Support Group.
Col. Mark Brown introduced assuming FSS commander, Maj. Jose Aleman, at the event.
FSS introduced to CAFB, Air Force
Services, MSS merge for heightened efficiency
Senior Squadron
Squadron Class Overall Graduation
48th (08-08) 6.53 days 1.56 days April 25
50th (08-08) 4.04 days -2.82 days April 25
Airman Josh Harbin
14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
The 14th Force Support Squadron held its assumption
ceremony Wednesday at the Columbus Club.
This preliminary establishment is a trial to see how the
new FSS, which falls under the 14th Mission Support
Group, will function with the once separate Services
Division and Mission Support Squadron.
“It is a necessary transition for our Air Force so that we
can make our processes leaner on a macro level,” said
Major Jose Aleman, assuming commander of the 14th FSS.
Colonel Mark Brown, 14th MSG commander, made the
opening comments at the presentation, welcoming the
new formation of the FSS to Columbus AFB and the Air
Force.
IFF
Senior Squadron
Squadron Class Overall Graduation
49th (08-GB) 0.96 days 0.64 days May 8
Graduation speaker: The graduation speaker is Lt. Gen. Glenn F. Spears, Deputy Commander, U.S. Southern Command, Miami, Fla.
The new squadron flag was unveiled at the ceremony,
where a formation of enlisted members offered the first
salute to the organization.
“While any transition may seem somewhat challenging,
in a deployed environment the processes of the former
MSS and SVS were laden with redundancies. By merging
the leadership under a single commander, many of these
redundancies can be negated,” said Maj. Aleman.
The FSS oversees a wide variety of activities from child
care to deployment readiness. The organization bears the
same level of responsibility as when the groups were separate
entities, except they now fall under one commander.
At the activity level, our operations will see little
change to daily operations. On the other hand, our flight
leadership will see a huge change in operations because of
the increased sphere of responsibility,” said Aleman.
Aircraft Required Flown Annual
T-6 1,603 1,271 13,845
T-1 660 528 6,450
T-38 636 551 6,742
IFF 130 160 1,767

SILVER WINGS
2 April 18, 2008
NEWS
CAFB welcomes Lt. Gen. Glenn Spears
Lieutenant Gen. Glenn Spears is Deputy
Commander, U.S. Southern Command,
Miami, Fla. He is second-in-command of one
of nine unified commands under the
Department of Defense. USSOUTHCOM is
responsible for all U.S. military activities,
including Theater Security Cooperation, on
the land mass of Latin America south of
Mexico; the waters adjacent to Central and
South America; the Caribbean Sea, with its 13
island nations, European and U.S. territories;
the Gulf of Mexico; and a portion of the
Atlantic Ocean.
General Spears was born in Louisville, Ky.,
and raised in Glen Ellyn, Ill. He earned his commission upon
graduation from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1978. He has
commanded a combined operations/maintenance B-52
squadron, a B-1 operations group, an air refueling wing and an
Shirt
Tales
Master Sgt. Clark Herring
14th Mission Support Group
First Sergeant
Members may now access
their PCS or Separation orders or
amendments through the virtual
MPF. Log into the AFPC secure
website, click on vMPF, click on
the Out Processing link (under
Most Popular Applications), and
you will see the "view orders"
link (under the Pages menu).
When you open this link, you
will see the PDF file(s) is/are
available for you to retrieve.
Either open and print copies or
save to your computer for an
electronic copy.
SUPT class 08-08
Graduation Speaker
FPCON ALPHA Applies when there is an
increased general threat of possible terrorist activity against personnel
or facilities, and the nature and extent of the threat are unpredictable.
14th Flying Training
Wing deployed
airlift wing. He also commanded the 100th Air
Expeditionary Wing during Operation Allied
Force, leading combat and combat support operations
with more than 75 B-1, B-52, E-3,
KC-135 and RC-135 aircraft, their crews and
support personnel. Prior to his current assignment,
General Spears served as the Director of
Force Management Policy, Deputy Chief of Staff
for Manpower and Personnel, Headquarters U.S.
Air Force, Washington, D.C. In this role, he was
responsible for establishing force management
policies for more than 525,000 Air Force activeduty
military and civilian personnel.
General Spears is a command pilot with more
than 3,400 flying hours in 13 types of Air Force aircraft. He
has flown the B-1B, B-52D/G/H, C-20B/C/H, C-21A, C-9C,
C-32A, C-37A, C-40B, KC-135A/Q/R/T, MC-130H, T-37B,
T-38A and UH-1.
Training for the ORI
U.S. Air Force photo by Melissa Duncan
Members of the Search and Recovery team search the field during
the exercise Tuesday. The exercise was a simulated T-37 crash at
the parasailing field on CAFB. The exercise was in preparation for
the upcoming Operation Readiness Inspection in May.
As of press time, 40 BLAZE TEAM members are deployed worldwide. Remember to support
the Airmen and their families while they are away.
Park it
before you
pour!
SILVER WINGS
How to reach us
14th Flying Training Wing Public
Affairs
555 Seventh St. Suite 203
Columbus AFB, MS 39710
Commercial: (662) 434-7068
DSN: 742-7068
Fax: (662) 434-7009
E-mail: silverwings@columbus.af.mil
Editorial Staff
Col. David Gerber
14th Flying Training
Wing Commander
Mr. Rick Johnson
Public Affairs Chief
Airman 1st Class
Danielle Hill
Editor
Airman Josh Harbin
Staff Writer
Mrs. Michelle Lee
Layout Designer
Submission Deadline
The deadline for submitting copy for
next week’s SILVER WINGS is noon
Monday. Articles may be dropped off
at the public affairs office or e-mailed.
Published by the Commercial Dispatch Publishing
Company, Inc., a private firm in no way connected with
the U.S. Air Force, under exclusive written contract with
the 14th Flying Training Wing.
This commercial enterprise Air Force newspaper is an
authorized publication for members of the U.S. military
services.
Contents of the SILVER WINGS are not necessarily
the official views of, or endorsed by, the U.S. government,
the Department of Defense or the Department of the Air
Force.
The appearance of advertising in this publication does
not constitute endorsement by the DOD, the Department
of the Air Force or Service Publications, Inc., of the products
or services advertised.
Everything advertised in this publication shall be made
available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to
race, color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status,
physical handicap, political affiliation or any other
non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron.
Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the
14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs Office of
Columbus AFB, Miss.
The SILVER WINGS staff reserves the right to edit or
rewrite all copy submitted when necessary. All photos are
U.S. Air Force photos unless otherwise stated.
Submit all advertising to the Columbus, Miss.,
Commercial Dispatch advertising department one week
prior to desired publication date. The advertising department
can be reached at (662) 328-2427.

Building the world’s best warriors, leaders and professional military pilots
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 2008
Volunteering a way of life for BLAZE Team
Airman 1st Class Danielle Hill
14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
BLAZE Team members participated in volunteer
opportunities this week in honor of National Volunteer
Week.
National Volunteer Week reflects the power volunteers
have to lead by example. Volunteers both encourage
those they help and motivate others to help. The theme
for this year was “Volunteer to Change the World".
BLAZE Team members are no strangers to volunteer
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Josh Harbin
Thrift Shop volunteers were honored for their service to
the Base Thrift Shop, totaling 40 years of combined
volunteer service. A portion of the profits from the Thrift
Shop fund the Annual Scholarship Awards given out
by the OSC. Pictured are: Col. Dave Gerber, Susan
Dunn, Nancy Franks, Jaynette Robertson, Chris Haley,
Elizabeth Shoemake, Patricia Wilson, Zenny Cuomo,
and OSC president Sarah Dixon. Not pictured: Sue
Weiger.
Hello veterans
work as volunteerism is a yearlong
event. Airmen are often
taking part in highway clean-ups,
Habit for Humanity, United
Way, Friendship Cemetery clean
up, volunteering for on-base
events and other events taking
place in the local community.
Members volunteered to aide
in the clean up of several places
on base including Freedom Park
and the T-37 aircraft display on
Highway 45.
Enlisted Airmen are introduced
to volunteer work as soon
as they reach their first duty station.
While they are in the First Term Airman’s Course,
they take part in at least one volunteer opportunity in
their two weeks of class. There are also many opportunities
for enlisted to become involved including the
Airman’s Activity Council, Blaze 56, Top 3, Air Force
Sergeant’s Association, First Sergeant Council and
Chief’s Group.
Officers can become involved with the Company
Grade Officers Council.
Spouses also have the opportunity to volunteer.
Spouses of enlisted can join the Spouses of Stripes and
spouses of officers can join the Officer’s Spouses’ Club.
The OSC recognized seven Thrift Shop volunteers at
their monthly social April 8. Together they totaled more
than 40 years of volunteer service. The Thrift Shop is run
completely by volunteers, along with the Airman’s Attic.
For more information on volunteering opportunities,
contact your First Sergeant.
Courtesy photo
Captain Brian Caruthers, 14th Medical Support Squadron currently deployed to Iraq pictured
with three Vietnam Era Congressional Medal of Honor recepients. Rretired Col. Robert
Howard, retired Capt. John McGinty and retired Command Sgt. Maj. Gary Littrell visit with
Capt. Caruthers during their recent visit to Iraq. Colonel Howardwas the most decorated
soldier during Vietnam with eight purple hearts.
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Josh Harbin
3
Airman Yelitza Cruz-
Cubano and Staff
Sgt. Shamika Horton,
both of the 14th
Communications
Squadron , spread
mulch during a
beautification project
Monday at
Freedom Park. The
project was successfully
carried out by a
group of volunteers
who came out in
support of the event.
U.S. Air Force photo by Sonic Johnson
Airman Josh Harbin, 14th Flying Training Wing Public
Affairs, and Airman 1st Class Zachary Bishop, 14th
Operations Support Squadron, plant azaleas at the
T-37 display located on Highway 45 at the front gate
on Saturday.
New cell phone policy
14th Security Forces Squadron
Special to Silver Wings
The Department of Defense forbids motorist to utilize a cell
phone while driving on a military installation except with a handsfree
device. Holding a cell phone and using a speakerphone features
does not constitute “hands-free;” the phone must not be in the
hand.
Effective immediately, the following penalties will apply to anyone
found utilizing a cell phone without a hands-free device while
operating a motor vehicle.
The first offense the driver will be issued a warning. On the second
offense, the driver’s driving privileges will be suspended for 30
days. On-base driving privileges will be suspended for a year on the
third offense. For subsequent violations, the 14th Mission Support
Group commander will impose additional administrative actions as
necessary.
These requirements are outlined in the AFI 31-204, Air Force
Motor Vehicle Traffic Supervision, and the AETC Supplement to
the AFI.
For more information, call the 14th Security Forces Squadron
commander, Maj. Kiley Stinson at 434-7112.

4
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 2008
INVENTORY
Building the world’s best warriors, leaders and professional military pilots
Making wise financial choices for a stable future
Sharon Nichols
14th Force Support Squadron
Planning for ones financial future demands that they
stay ahead of the financial factors that shape the economy.
Ironically, financial worries derive not necessarily from
lack of money, but often from lack of planning. Solid
financial planning can take the uncertainty out of the
financial future, leaving one confident that what they do
today will help them acquire what they want tomorrow.
Financial planning should allow them the opportunity to
pursue educational, career and recreational goals, as well as
plan for retirement. Knowing where they are now financially,
where they would like to be and what resources they
have to make that possible, will help them face the future
with confidence.
Financial management involves:
Setting personal and financial goals.
Creating a budget to manage expenses and minimize
debt.
Establishing credit and using it wisely.
Saving and investing regularly.
“Black Hawk Down”
tickets now available
Airman 1st Class Danielle Hill
14th Flying Training Wing
Public Affairs
Retired Army Staff Sgt. Matt
Eversmann, who was portrayed in the
film “Black Hawk Down,” will be the
keynote speaker for the YMCA annual
benefit dinner and meeting April 25 at
the Trotter Convention Center.
Free tickets are available, purchased
by the 14th Flying Training Wing
commander, Col. Dave Gerber, to
enlisted Airman that would like to
attend the event. If interested, please
contact your First Sergeant for a ticket.
Tickets are limited.
Ticket holders will be able to listen
to the speech from the balcony of the
Trotter. Entry time for those ticket
holders is 7:50 p.m. Dress is Sunday
casual.
Sergeant Eversmann will deliver his
speech, “Dedication, Pride and
Commitment: The Story of Black
T weet&
Texan
21
Financial goals can include paying off your debts in full,
creating an emergency fund; establishing a good credit reputation
and developing a savings or investment plan.
However, specific goals may vary from one individual to
another.
A spending plan, or budget, is a tool for establishing
financial control and direction. It helps track where ones
money goes rather than wondering where it went. Using a
spending plan helps avoid wasting money, prepare for
unforeseen expenses and frees up money for savings or
investing for long-term goals.
Every time credit is used, debt is incurred. Used properly,
credit helps achieve major financial goals, but used
improperly, credit can lead to financial trouble. It is easy to
lose track of how much is being spent when credit is used
for vacations, dining out, clothing or gifts, and when credit
is used carelessly, it is easy to spend more than can be
repaid. If credit must be used, be sure to pay bills on time
and in full to avoid finance charges. Do not skip payments
unless pre-arranged with the creditor. Limit the number of
credit accounts used and know the terms and conditions of
all credit cards and loans. Compare credit options careful-
Hawk Down,” where he will focus on
three attributes that brought him
home alive: leadership, courage and
selfless service.
The story of Black Hawk Down
came from the 18 traumatic hours U.S.
soldiers in Somalia were trapped inside
a hostile district of Mogadishu.
Sergeant Eversmann has many military
decorations including the Army
Service Ribbon, The National Defense
Service Ribbon, eight Army
Achievement medals, four Army
Commendation medals, a Bronze Star
Medal with Valor Device and the
Combat Infantryman’s Badge.
He has lectured students at the Air
Force Academy, Annapolis and West
Point, been a ROTC instructor at
Johns Hopkins University and
appeared on Larry King Live and
Dateline with Stone Phillips. He has
also written a book entitled “The
Battle of Mogadishu.”
T-37 aircraft currently
assigned to CAFB
85
ly and make wise credit choices.
Saving and investing are essential to reaching major
financial goals. Ideally, one should start saving and investing
early and regularly. The key is to establish and continue
a disciplined savings and investment plan. Authorize
the bank to automatically transfer a portion of ones pay to
a savings account as soon as it is deposited. That way, the
money will not be missed. Try to save 10 to 15 percent of
ones net income. If this amount cannot be saved, save as
much as possible. Build an emergency fund of three to six
months of basic living expenses – enough to manage a crisis
without borrowing money. Increase savings contributions
when possible. For example, if a raise or bonus
received, consider adding some or all of the additional
earnings to a savings goals.
Financial planning is a lifelong process and practicing
healthy financial habits is important. Peace of mind comes
with having a realistic, workable plan for a financial future.
Contact the Airman and Family Readiness Center for
more information about setting financial goals, establishing
budgets, using credit wisely or saving and investing.
Aladdin visits law day
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Josh Harbin
The 14th Flying Training Wing Staff Judge Advocate Office hosted a law day Friday
for children from the Columbus AFB Youth Center. The event entailed a mock trial
where the youth made up the jury members and was themed around the Disney
movie "Aladdin."
T-6 aircraft currently
assigned to CAFB

Building the world’s best warriors, leaders and professional military pilots
April is Sexual Assault
Awareness Month
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 2008 5
Every Month is Sexual Assault Prevention Month at Columbus AFB. We have
highly trained and professional Victim Advocates who will do whatever it takes to
help make a Wingman become a Survivor!
Here's some Websites that you can go to.
��DoD Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Website
http://www.sapr.mil
��Civilian Rape Reporting Laws (by State or Jurisdiction)
http://www.sapr.mil/Homepage.aspx?Topic=Resources&P
agename=reportinglaws.htm
��Locate a Medical Treatment Facility
http://www.tricare.osd.mil
��Military Law Enforcement
Army CID http://www.cid.army.mil/
USAF OSI http://public.afosi.amc.af.mil/contact.asp or call
(877) 246-1453
Navy NCIS http://www.ncis.navy.mil/contact.cfm or call
(800)522-3451
��Helping an Employee Recover from an Assault
http://www.opm.gov/ehs/html/Ch5.asp
��National Sexual Violence Resource Center
http://www.nsvrc.org
Safe Haven is sponsoring a Sexual Assault presentation in
support of Sexual Assault Awareness Month:
April 15 at 6 p.m. at the Trotter Convention Center
Call the Sexual Assault Response Coordinator at
Office: (662) 434-2875 or Cell: (662) 386-0822
What can I do to help prevent others from being sexually assaulted?
Dr. David Lisak, a professor of psychology at the University of
Massachusetts Boston and director of the Men's Sexual Trauma
Research Project, has conducted extensive research on men
who commit sexual assaults. His research has shown that most sexual
assaults are committed by a small number of men who commit
multiple offenses against victims with whom they have some
degree of acquaintance.
As an Air Force Wingman, you should report immediately any
activity that indicates a sexual assault may take place or has
taken place.
Report any of the following activities immediately to your commander,
Security Forces, or another authority:
��Support the victim and show respect, but don't be overly
protective.
��Listen to the victim and take the allegations seriously, with
out asking the victim for details.
��Do not make judgments about the victim or the alleged
offender.
��Encourage the victim to report the crime; however you
should report the sexual assault to the proper authorities.
��Get assistance for the victim, but never leave the victim
alone.
��Protect the victim's confidentiality by not discussing the
assault with anyone, except the authorities.
��Repeat to the victim: You are not to blame!
Remember: The safety of your fellow Wingmen, your unit and your
community may depend on your reporting of these incidents. You
should report any suspicious behavior immediately.
HERE'S THE BOTTOM LINE:
HERE'S THE BOTTOM LINE:
Safety isn't just about driving safe. It's not just about running in pairs or not putting yourself in a position where Skanky Bubba
can prey on you. Safety is about going home to your family without any incidents that will haunt you the rest of your life. Think
about the consequences of what you are about to do! You are someone's son, you are someone's daughter, you are loved
and we want you to be whole and a viable asset to our Country and the United States Air Force!
“We are the BLAZE Team!"

6
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 2008 AF NEWS
Attention to Detail
Recently the Department of Defense learned that four non-nuclear
nose cones for a ballistic missile were mistakenly shipped to Taiwan in
the fall of 2006. Regardless of the results of the ongoing investigation,
this situation has identified important lessons for all of the DoD as we
increasingly automate procedures and systems - lessons we Airmen must
absorb as members of the Joint team. These lessons follow our core values,
and they illuminate the critical nature of attention to detail and
checking initial entries.
Our values first and foremost encompass Integrity. We must always
have the moral and intellectual courage to do the right thing and must
continue to follow our moral compass in the decisions we make and
actions we take. Integrity also refers to going the extra mile to ensure our
work is absolutely accurate. The Air Force is made up of skilled Airmen
who perform highly technical jobs. From entering target coordinates on
a GPS-guided weapon to filling out forms, they all entail putting precise
and sometimes complex entries into a computer. Our data entry actions
may have immediate effects, or others may rely on our entry at times well
into the future. Often, many people rely on the pinpoint accuracy of just
one person's work. Every action of this Air Force is critical for our
Nation; as we automate more and more, any data errors become part of a
larger error set.
Our values also include Service. Service here means to cross check any
part of a process when you are involved. From supervisor to wingman, I
need you to be the one to notice when something is not right even if it
is not within your immediate purview. We all can assist each other and
the rest of our Joint and Coalition forces to do it right. With the right
mindset, large organizations can be adept at avoiding mistakes. We can
use our judgment to question or ask for supervisory intervention, a paramount
service we can offer to each other.
Our values encompass Excellence. Excellence here is about closely following
the detailed procedures, and getting it right the first time.
Excellence is about getting the right level of training and taking personal
accountability for being ready, willing and able to execute the mission,
whether administrative or operational, correctly and efficiently. Ask for
help if needed. Supervisors must also provide the support needed to assist
with mentoring, or cross check as appropriate.
The investigation of the mistaken shipment is ongoing and will be
thorough, but all should know that as Airmen we will take ownership
where appropriate. On the Goals Card is a simple statement: "Knowledge
Enabled Actions with an Accountable Airmen Ethic"- this summarizes
our values well. I am proud to serve with you and know that every day
you bring incredible value to our Air Force, and every day, I know you are
working hard to enhance that value.
Innovative idea saves nearly $400,000
Capt. Jason McCree
386th Air Expeditionary Wing
Public Affairs
SOUTHWEST ASIA — Contracting officers
recently leveraged the benefits of technology
to save $395,000 for the Air Force at a
Southwest Asia air base.
Airmen from the 386th Expeditionary
Contracting Squadron used electronic reverse
auctioning or e-RA to save the Air Force hundreds
of thousands of dollars.
Reverse auctioning is an online real-time bidding
event between a buying organization and a
group of suppliers. The buying organization, in
this case the Air Force, posted its need for generators
on a specially e-RA-designed Web site, and
the suppliers bid the prices down to win the business.
"When the 386th Expeditionary Civil
Engineer Squadron had a requirement to purchase
29 backup generators here, we identified
this as a candidate for e-RA," said Maj. Tim
Hawkins, the 386th ECONS commander. "This
was a great candidate for e-RA because the generators
were specifiable, there was plenty of competition
for the contract, and the estimated value
of the procurement was significant -- these are all
attributes necessary for a successful e-RA."
"After contracting officers solicited proposals
from several companies, the lowest bid received
was about $2 million," Maj. Hawkins said.
"Often, the government will award a competed
contract based on initial pricing received -- not
this time."
The contracting squadron worked with an e-
RA service provider to conduct the online auction.
The suppliers entered their bids for the generators
during the e-RA, and after 278 bids during
six hours, the price was bid down to $1.5 million
dollars. This reduced the price enough to
save the Air Force $395,000.
Capt. Lisa Gambrel, a 386th ECONS contracting
officer, solicited the proposals from the
competing companies and watched the online
auction unfold from Southwest Asia, while Major
Hawkins watched it in the U.S. while on leave.
"Since it was online, I could view it from the
hotel I was staying in," said Major Hawkins, who
researched e-RA in doctoral studies. "It was great
watching the bidding process unfold."
"Conducting this process online gave each
company the opportunity see what they were up
against as they bid against their competition. It
gave them a chance to sharpen their pencils,"
Captain Gambrel said. "They had to come ready
to compete, but it was that competition that led
to big savings for the Air Force."
Major Hawkins said, they were the first to
conduct an e-RA in the deployed environment,
but it should be continued across the Air Force,
at home and downrange, to save additional dollars.
"I hope we can further leverage e-RAs to get
the biggest bang for our buck," he said. "Our taxpayers
deserve it, and our Air Force needs the
savings to fund modernization. Not all supplies
and services are appropriate for e-RA sourcing,
but by ignoring e-RAs, we are certainly leaving a
lot of money on the table."
Air Force photo/Capt. Jason McCree
A contractor describes the functions on a generator procured by the Air Force to Maj. Tim
Hawkins, Capt. Lisa Gambrel and other contractors April 12 at a Southwest Asia air base. Airmen
from the 386th Expeditionary Contracting Squadron used an innovative method to procure 29
generators, called electronic reverse auctioning, to save the Air Force $395,000. Major Hawkins is
the 386th ECONS commander and Captain Gambrel is a 386th ECONS contracting officer.

Airman's Creed
Capt. Tony Wickman
71st Flying Training Wing
Public Affairs
ACROSS
1. Start of American warships
4. ___-fi
7. USAF auxiliary
10. Person referred to with
respect to complete individuality
12. Wrongful act; results in injury
to another for litigation
14. Fall short of success or
achievement
15. Great Lake
16. Line 8: And a Legacy of ____
17. M*A*S*H actor Alan
18. Line 4: I am an ___ ___
21. Large, stocky, shaggy-haired
wild ox
22. ___ and yang
23. One side of a leaf of something
printed or written
26. Tex-Mex appetizer
30. Part of the Department of
Defense
31. Teenager problem
34. Operation Provide ___
36. Protocol optimized for the
transmission of voice, in brief
37. Line 11: My Nation’s ___ and
Shield
38. Wallet stuffers
39. Jokes
40. Singer Fitzgerald
41. Charged particles
42. Senior member, as in age,
RANK
rank, or experience, of a group
44. Mistakes
45. Mil. pay statement
47. Writer Fleming
49. Line 5: My mission is to ___,
___, and ___
57. Silver or cupronickel coin
and monetary unit of 55 DOWN
58. Odor arising from spices,
plants, or cooking
59. Eye part
61. 1970s hair style
62. Singer Horne
63. Line 3: I have answered my
Nation’s ___
64. CNN founder Turner
65. Lair
66. Michel __; French revolutionary
and Napoleonic military
leader
DOWN
1. Expend or consume
2. Thin, clear parts of the fluids
of plants
3. Thin
4. More or less orderly pile or
heap
5. Overseas mil. pay entitlement
6. Words that are the opposite of
its literal meaning
7. Without rough motion; still or
nearly still
8. Verdi opera
9. Scheme or method of acting,
doing, or proceeding
11. Charge or payment for professional
services
13. Coached to a mode of behavior
or performance
14. Distant
16. By a route that touches or
passes through; by way of
19. Widely cultivated cereal grass
20. __ _ jiffy
23. Line 6: I am faithful to a ___
Heritage
24. Body acid
25. European nomad
27. Singing group
28. Line 7: A Tradition of ___
29. Removes obstructions from;
clears
30. 2004 science fiction movie
31. Pointed instrument for piercing
small holes in leather, wood
32. Pass or depression in a mountain
range or ridge
33. Gun lobby
35. Snake sound
37. Republic in W Africa
43. NY Giant Manning
44. Terminate
46. Cut up, tear
47. Start of Line 14
48. Ugly Betty actress Ortiz
49. College group
50. Line 13: I defend my Country
with my ___
51. 3 feet
52. Alice’s street-smart waitress
53. Quality or character of sound
54. Supplemental food program
55. Middle East country
56. African river
60. Stallone nickname
To solve, place an enlisted rank into each box so that each row across,
each column down, and each small 9-box square within the larger diagram
will contain every enlisted rank. In other words, no rank E1 – E9
may appear more than once in any row, column, or smaller 9-box square.
Working with the ranks already given as a guide, complete each diagram
with the missing ranks that will lead to the correct solution.
LEISURE
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 2008
Mon Tue Wed Thur Fri Sat/Sun
21 22 23 24 25 26/27
09-01 Track
Select
28 29 30
1 2 3/4
Quarterly
Awards
Luncheon
1130 @ Club
Long Term Events
May 8 - CCAF Graduation
May 8 - 08-GF IFF Grad
May 11 - Mother’s Day
May 11-21 - CAFB ORI
BLAZE
Lunch
Brunch
1100-1300 @
Club
Enlisted
Promotions
1530 @ Club
Blaze Lunch
Brunch
1100-1300 @
Club
Daedalians
1800 @ Club
National Day
of Prayer
08-08
Graduation
Lt. Gen. Spears,
US SOUTH-
COMM deputy
commander,
guest speaker
08-09
Assignment
Night & Crud
Tournament
1700 @ Club
May 16 - 08-09 Gradutation Brig. Gen. Walter
Givhan, Director of Secretary of the Air Force
and Chief of Staff Executive Action Group,
Washington, D.C. guest speaker
May 26 - Memorial Day
7
POW/MIA
Golf Tourney
Autocross
@ SAC Ramp
Market Street
Festival

SILVER WINGS
8 April 18, 2008 VIEWPOINT
Serving our country with faith
Chaplain (Capt.) William Logan
14th Flying Training Wing Chapel
I am now about three fourths of the
way through my tour of duty in Iraq.
There is still a lot of work to be done, but
thoughts naturally turn to coming home
and getting back to my life.
There will be so much to make up. I
missed the birth of my son March 20th, a
wedding anniversary and a birthday.
But everybody here has made some
sacrifice. As the song goes, “All gave
some… some gave all.” We all return to
homes that are different, even as we have
all changed ourselves. I will carry with me
more images of suffering and loss than I
care to count, along with countless blessings
and the sense that God helped some
folks because of what I did here. For a pastor
and a chaplain, a deployment is a
richly textured experience, filled with
mountaintops of meaning and valleys of
pain, often within a few minutes of each
other.
When I first arrived and was working
in the hospital, I came across an Iraqi
man who had lost both legs in a suicide
bombing attack. He looked very despondent
and didn’t very interested in talking
until one day, he just looked like he wanted
to talk, so I pulled up a chair. He spoke
very good English and informed me that
he had been a medical doctor. His name
was “Dr. Muhammed”. As you might
expect, he was in a lot of pain, physically
and emotionally, and pretty much felt
that his life was over, pointing to where
his legs once were, and saying, “This is my
Maj. Jeffrey Ferrer
386th Expeditionary Communications Squadron
Det. 1 commander
SOUTHWEST ASIA — It's been more than 80 days
since I arrived at a Southwest Asian air base, and as I reflect
upon my time here it feels as if we just arrived only a few days
ago. While some Airmen deploy for as few as 60 days, others
deploy for up to 12 to 15 months.
We military folks should be accustomed to being apart
from our loved ones during deployments; however, there are
a multitude of stresses on the military member, as well as on
the families left behind. We sometimes are not there in person
to take care of family issues or being at special events.
We sometimes miss birthdays, wedding anniversaries, a sibling's
wedding, or holidays.
The stresses are often hard to bear. You can see them in
the faces of our fellow Airmen. You may have experienced
someone letting off some steam by chewing out someone in
situation.”
I thought of Peter and John in Acts 3,
when they came upon a man who couldn’t
walk. Peter said, “I don’t have any
money, but I’ll give you what I have.” I
asked Dr. Muhammed if I could pray with
him. He said yes, and I did. He wept and
opened his arms to embrace me. “No one
ever did that before,” he said. We visited
several more times and he went home.
One day several weeks later, I was
making rounds through the emergency
department, and saw an Iraqi man, laughing
and smiling with several staff members.
I didn’t think much of it, until I
caught a glimpse of him as I walked past.
There, with a huge smile on his face, was
my old friend, Dr. Muhammed, looking at
me with arms outstretched for a hug. He
had come back for physical therapy. In
the course of our conversation, he said
something I’ll never forget: “I was a person
of death, but you changed me from a
person of death to a person of life!” I
don’t know where Dr. Muhammed is
today, but I know that it is well with his
soul. God does amazing things everyday.
There is so much to be rebuilt, both
here and at home, both for the good people
of this country and ours. I have seen
so many broken bodies and hurting spirits.
I have ushered many souls to the
other side, Muslim and Christian alike, as
I stood with them as they died. I have
heard stories of faith that humble me and
tales of courage and strength that inspire
me. I wish that the whole story was being
told to the American people. Every media
story containing bad news about what is
wrong with our presence here can be
countered with a dozen or more about
what is right and good.
Having been here, I can say that I love
my God more than ever, because I am
never alone, even in this place. I love my
country more than ever, even though she
is far from perfect. I believe in what I do,
both as a pastor and chaplain, and as a
proud member of our armed forces. I am
thankful for my training and all those
who mentored and shepherded me. Most
of all, I am thankful for my wife and chil-
the office for infractions, yelling at roommates, throwing a
tantrum (yes, some adults still do it), being unreasonable, or
experiencing someone who is normally polite turn into an
angry irrational person. We all need to keep these types of
behaviors in check. The stresses will build up throughout the
deployment, so we need to know when to take a step back
and cool off for a bit.
Do you miss your family? I know I do. I miss my 2-year-old
son and I am missing the moments when he learns a new
word or experiences something for the first time. I miss my
wife, as she always finds ways to make me laugh and smile
each day. I miss their hugs and kisses and the simple things in
daily life, but despite being apart from them, I realize that as
an Airman we have a responsibility to uphold for the Air
Force, our sister services and our nation.
If we do not support our mission, meet career field standards,
fulfill job requirements or take care of ourselves then a
part of the overall mission will fail. Basically, the big picture
is we will hurt the mission, career field, job and ourselves if
Courtesy photo
Chaplain (Capt.) William Logan, 14th Flying Training Wing Chapel, visits with a
family at the hospital while deployed in Iraq.
dren and the thousand simple blessings I
enjoy and often take for granted. I am
privileged to serve the best. From the
Security Forces members who vigilantly
watch the wire here and who keep my
family safe at home, to the dedicated
Airmen who work daily on the flight line
in the heat and dust to keep the aircraft
safely in the air, to the valiant medics,
nurses and doctors who tenderly care for
the sick and the wounded, they are all
simply awesome. Life is good, indeed.
Feeling stressed? Remember freedom
we cannot live up to our responsibilities during our deployment.
Just the other day, I was saddened and reminded of why
we are here in theater. Several military members from the
Marines, Army, Air Force and contract civilians witnessed
the arrival of a C-130 Hercules carrying our fallen comrades
who were killed by a suicide attack recently in Iraq. We held
a procession and rendered them the proper salutes during an
offload honor ceremony.
The stresses we face back home or during our deployments
do not come close to what our fallen comrades in arms
had to face. This brings home a true reminder of our involvement
in support of operation Enduring Freedom and Iraqi
Freedom.
Rather than worrying about stress or feeling the stress, we
need to remember what we are fighting for. That is why I'd
like to impress upon all of us, whether you are military or
civilian, that we are here for freedom.

12
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 2008 COMMUNITY
Base News
Airman’s Attic
The Airman's Attic is looking for a
head volunteer. If interested please call
425-9220.
Customer Service
The Military Personnel Element,
Customer Service will be going to an
appointment only system. Please call
Customer Service at 434-2626 or
434-2624 to schedule an appointment for
your next visit. If you have “locked” your
CAC Card there is a pin reset station
located in Bldg 1100, room 210 for 14th
Medical Group personnel and Building
900, room 4 for all others. Reminder: two
forms of identification are required to
receive an ID card. Hours of operation for
the MPE are 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Monday through Friday, except Thursday
when the hours are from 8:30 a.m. to
noon.
2008 Vacation Bible
School
The base Chapel will be hosting this
summer. This is a great opportunity for
CAFB youth to learn more about Jesus as
he heals, helps and gives power to people
who need him. Volunteers are needed
again this year. If you would like to volunteer,
call the CAFB Chapel at 434-2500.
CCAF Graduation
The CCAF graduation ceremony will
be held May 8 at 10 a.m. at the Columbus
Club. Mr. Tommy Prude, President of the
Board of Trustees for the Columbus
Municipal School District, is the commencement
speaker. A reception will
immediately follow the ceremony.
Everyone is invited. Call Education
Services at 434-2562 or 434-2561 for
more information.
Air Force Assistance Fund
The 2008 Air Force Assistance Fund
campaign has kicked-off and will run
through May 3. Donations received from
Air Force members will be used to help
our own Airmen in need.
Further information on all of these
AFAF programs can be obtained at the
website www.afassistancefund.org or by
contacting your wing, group or squadron
AFAF representative.
Donations to the AFAF campaign can
be made through cash, check or payroll
deduction. Contributors may designate
their contribution to one or more of the
four charities. One hundred percent of
their AFAF contribution is passed to
their chosen charities.
The Group POCs for this are as follows:
For the Wing Staff Agency, Sherron
Belk; for 14th Mission Support Group,
Senior Airman Nicole Towns-Buchanon;
for 14th Operations Group, Capt. Marty
Slovinsky; and for the 14th Medical
Group, Tech. Sgt. Eryn McElroy.
Adjunct Faculty Openings
Saint Leo University is seeking
adjunct faculty in Business, Criminal
Justice, and Psychology to teach undergraduate
classes on Columbus AFB. Saint
Leo University is currently seeking a
Director to manage their new CAFB
Continuing Education Center. Classes
are projected to start in Fall 08.
Complete information is available at
www.saintleo.edu/jobs. You can also call
Education Services at 434-2565 for more
information.
Testing Office Closure
There will be no testing (CDC, PME,
CLEP, college exams, etc.) in the
Education Office from May 12 to 23.
However, additional testing sessions have
been added for Monday, May 5 and
Wednesday, May 28 at 8 a.m. and 1 p.m.
both days. Testing is normally conducted
each Tuesday and Thursday at 8 a.m. and
1 p.m. Call 434-2562 if you have questions.
Airman and Family
Readiness Center
(Editor’s note: All activities are offered at
the Airman & Family Readiness Center
unless otherwise specified. For more information
about any of the activities listed, call
434-2790 or email afrc@columbus.af.mil.)
Post-Deployment Brief
This mandatory briefing is for active
duty personnel who are returning from
deployment or a remote tour are held
daily at 1:30 p.m. at the A&FRC. For
more information, call 434-2790.
Pre-Deployment Brief
There is a mandatory briefing for
active duty personnel who are deploying
or going on a remote tour. The brief is
held every work day at 9 a.m. Spouses are
welcome to attend.
Wing Newcomers
There will be a Wing Newcomers
briefing held at the Airman and Family
Readiness Center Tuesday from 8 a.m. to
3:30 p.m. This brief is for all AD and civilian
personnel new to CAFB. Spouses are
encouraged to attend. For more information,
call 434-2790.
Sponsorship Training
This training is for Unit Intro Monitors
and Sponsors will be held April 29 at
9 a.m. at the AFRC. Also web-based
training is offered thru Air Force Portal
under CAFB and thru the Public Folder.
For more information, call 434-2790.
AFAS...Air Force People
Helping Each Other
Sudden emergency and no cash? It can
happen to anyone. Your Air Force Aid
Society has assisted Air Force people for
66 years and is there to help you. Call
434-2855 for more information.
Employment Workshop
There is an employment workshop
every Wednesday at 1 p.m. Airman and
Family Readiness Center. Participants will
learn about local and base employment
opportunities. For more information, call
434-2790.
Fam-Link "What's
Happening"
Looking for something to do in the
area—on or off base? Sign up for the
Airman and Family Readiness Flight electronic
newsletter. Events include: plays,
concerts, flea markets, sports, seminars,
wellness classes, festivals and craft classes.
To sign up, send an e-mail to
AFRC@columbus.af.mil and ask to be
added to the list. This newsletter provides
great information to help you explore and
enjoy your tour here at CAFB. For more
information, call the Airman and Family
Readiness Center at 434-2631.
SOLUTION FOR LAST WEEK
(Current weeks puzzle on page 7)
Chapel Schedule
Protestant
Sunday: 9 a.m. — Adult Sunday School
10:45 a.m. — Traditional
Worship Service (Children’s Church)
All are invited to a fellowship luncheon following
the 10:45 a.m. service the fourth
Sunday of each month
Catholic
Monday through Thursday
7:00 a.m. — Mass
Thursday
5 p.m. — Choir Practice
Sunday:
4:30 p.m. — Confession
4:30 p.m. — Choir Practice
5:30 p.m. — Mass
First Communion, Confirmation and
RCIA classes are held Wednesday in conjunction
with Pioneer Club.
The Catholic Parish Fellowship Dinner is
held on the first Sunday of each month following
the 5:30 p.m. Mass.
Wednesdays
5 p.m. — Potluck
6 p.m. — Pioneer Club for ages 3 years
to 7th grade
6 p.m. — Video Study
6 p.m. — “A Case for Kids” Family Life
Study
6 p.m. — “Breaking the Code” A study
of Revelations
6 p.m. — Youth Bible Study for ages 8th
to 12th grades
7 p.m. — Protestant Choir Practice

10
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 2008
CMYK FEATURE
Area students gather for environmental education
Shelby
Staten, U.S.
Corps of
Engineers,
shows a group
of children different
pelts of
fur from local
animals.
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Josh Harbin
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Josh Harbin
Col. Dave Gerber, 14th Flying Training Wing Commander, demonstrates the proper placement
of the hand to students before the Pledge of Allegiance to kick off the Annual Earth
Day event.
Airman 1st Class Danielle Hill
14th Flying Training Wing Public Affairs
More than 500 fourth graders from Columbus City,
Lowndes County and Columbus AFB home-schools came
out to Columbus AFB Tuesday in celebration of Earth
Day/Arbor Day.
Seventeen activities were available for the youth from 9
a.m. to 2 p.m. at Freedom Park.
A few base agencies helped with Earth Day including the
14th Civil Engineer Squadron and the Commissary. Many
local and state organizations including VFW Post 4272
Weyerhaeuser, Squincher, Triangle Maintenance Service,
FiberVision, Paper Traders, Columbus Scrap Materials, Keep
Mississippi Beautiful, 4 County Electric Power Association,
Golden Triangle Regional Solid Waste Management
Authority, Weyerhaeuser, Mississippi School for Math and
Science, Holcim, Lowndes County Extension Service, US
Corp of Engineers, Ducks Unlimited, MS Soil and Water
Conservation, 4 County Electric Power Association, MS
Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), and MS
Forestry Commission provided educational learning stations.
In addition, recreational activities such as a recycling
relay and ring toss were also planned for the students to take
part in. The winners for the events were given imprinted
water bottles with an environmental message
Colonel Dave Gerber, 14th Flying Training Wing commander,
provided opening comments for the event. Rick
Olsen, Mississippi Forestry Commission, then presented the
14th FTW with the 14th consecutive Tree City Award and
the 6th Tree City USA Growth Award.
Former Wisconsin Senator Gaylord Nelson was the
Founder of Earth Day; the idea first took place in 1970 but
had evolved over a period of eight years starting in 1962.
Earth Day provides knowledge and support so the world will
have clean air and water, healthy fish and wildlife and beautiful
places to visit forever.
The first Arbor Day took place April 10, 1872, in
Nebraska where more than one million trees were planted.
On this day, individuals and groups are encouraged to plant
and care for trees. It was the vision of a Nebraska journalist
and politician, Julius Sterling Morton. In the years since the
first Arbor Day, all 50 states have adopted the day. However,
not every state celebrates the event on the same day due to
the climate of that local area. President Richard Nixon
declared the last Friday in April as National Arbor Day.
Arbor Day is also celebrated in other countries such as
Australia, Japan, Israel, Korea, Yugoslavia, Iceland and
India.
ARBOR DAY PROCLAMATION
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Whereas,
Therefore,
trees are a valuable resource that significantly enhance the quality of
life, the beauty, and natural environment of our base, and
trees are a renewable resource giving us paper, wood for our homes,
fuel for our fires, and countless other wood products, and
trees reduce the erosion of our precious topsoil by wind and water, cut
heating and cooling costs, moderate temperature, clean the air, produce
oxygen, and provide habitat for wildlife, and
trees, where they are planted, area source of joy and spiritual renewal
I do herby proclaim this 15th day of April 2008
ARBOR DAY
AT C O L U M B U S A I R F O R C E B A S E
U.S. Air Force photo by Elizabeth Owens
Members of the Columbus AFB Commissary make a
presentation to a group of students at Earth Day
Tuesday at Freedom Park. The Commissary introduced
the students to environmentally friendly items and
organic food products.
Installation Commander
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 200811
U.S. Air Force photo by Elizabeth Owens
John Anderson, Mississippi Soil and Water Conservation, demonstrates the
importance of water and soil conservation to a group of New Hope
Elementary School students Tuesday.
U.S. Air Force photo by Elizabeth Owens
Frank Lockhart,
14th Civil
E n g i n e e r
Squadron, discusses
proper
way of disposing
of items that
could potentially
harm the environment
Tuesday
at the Earth Day
celebration.
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Josh Harbin
Airman 1st Class Marquis Skinner, 14th Communications Squadron, runs a stand at the
Earth Day celebration where children can guess the weight of a bale of plastic bottles
weighing in at over 600 lbs.

Casino Trips
The ITT office offers a trip to
Philadelphia MS every Friday for $20.
Cost includes transportation and $25 in
play credit at the casino (you make $5).
The bus will depart at 6 p.m. every Friday
from the BX/Shoppette parking lot and
leave the casino for CAFB at 1 a.m. For
more information, call 434-2505.
Monte Carlo Night
The Columbus Club offers this quarterly
program tonight The doors open at
6 p.m. with free hors d’oeuvres from 6 to
7 p.m. compliments of The Landings at
Columbus (Pinnacle Hunt). Games are
from 7 to 10 p.m. with the blind auction
beginning at 10 p.m. Prizes valued at
almost $1,000 will be auctioned off. Cost
is $10 for club members and $20 for nonmembers.
Register at the club by
Tuesday. For more information, call
434-2490.
Parent/Child Arts, Crafts Project
Make a special arts and crafts project
together at the children development
centers program scheduled for 4 p.m.
April 22. For more information, call
434-2441.
Teen Midnight Basketball
Youth, ages 13 to 18, are invited to
enjoy the food, basketball games, lectures
and music for this program scheduled
from 9 p.m. to 1 a.m. April 25. Must
have at least 12 registered by April 22 to
offer. It’s free. For more information, call
434-2504.
Member’s Appreciation Day
The Youth Center offers free food
starting at 4:30 p.m. April 25. Activities
include recognizing the top FitFactor
youth/adult participants and games with
prizes. For more information, call 434-
2504.
Canoe the River, Cookout Party
Join the outdoor adventure staff
April 26 for this canoe trip down the
river and a cookout party. The bus will
depart at 9 a.m. Cost is $20 per person
and includes transportation, canoes
and cookout party. Must have 10 registered
and paid by April 18. For more
information, call 434-2505.
Ballroom Dance Classes
The Youth Center offers these classes
for youth and adults from 7 to 8 p.m.
Wednesday and from 7 to 8 p.m.
Thursdays. The fitness center also offers
a class Monday nights at 7 p.m. Learn
the foxtrot, waltz, east coast swing,
tango, rumba and cha-cha. No partner
required. Cost is $4 per person per class.
For more information, call the Youth
Center at 434-2504 or the Fitness Center
at 434-2772.
SERVICES
White Water Rafting Trip
Register at outdoor recreation by May
1 for this trip to Chattanooga to ride the
white water of the Ocoee River May 30
to June 1. Cost is $155 per person and
includes transportation, lodging, three
meals and rafting. A $55 deposit is
required when registering with the balance
due by May 23. For more information,
call 434-2505.
Canoe, Camping Trip
The outdoor adventure staff offers this
overnight trip May 24 to 25. Cost is $30
per person and includes transportation,
canoes, tents, sleeping bags, cookout dinner,
breakfast and water. Must have 10
registered and paid by May 15 to offer.
For more information, call 434-7861.
Blaze Lunch Bunch
Mark your calendars to lunch at the
Columbus Club Wednesday for the premier
of the Blaze Lunch Bunch dine-in
from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. every Wednesday.
All plate lunches come with one meat,
two sides, roll or cornbread and tea or
water. Cost is $5.75 for members and
$6.75 for nonmembers. Each additional
side is $.50. Desserts are $2.95 each. For
more information, call 434-2490.
Orlando Tour
Put your trip on lay-a-way at the
information, ticket and travel office for
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 2008 13
Tee off this Spring at Whispering Pines Golf Course
Jana Hall
14th Services Division
These days, everyone seems to be itching to get outside
and enjoy the incredible weather here in the Deep South
- between rounds of severe thunderstorms, that is. What
better place to enjoy Mother Nature's wonders than on
the links?
The Whispering Pines Golf Course has officially
kicked off its 2008 season, according to PGA pro and
Golf Course Manager, Ricky Magers. The course is now
open seven days a week from 7 a.m. until dusk each day,
with exception of Tuesdays after 4 p.m. when the
intramural teams play and any day when a tournament is
scheduled.
One of the more popular programs offered at the golf
course is the Thursday Scrambles which are open to
anyone wishing to participate. "If you want to play,"
Magers said, "just call and sign up before 4 p.m. Thursday.
Teams are selected based on player ability in hopes of
giving every team a fair shot." The cost to play in these
weekly scrambles is just $5.00 plus green fees.
The golf course hosts at least one big tournament each
month throughout the year, he said, and there are five
tournaments on the books open to the community in
2008. These big tournaments include the Whispering
Pines Golf Classic this afternoon, the Super Sonic
Scramble June 7 and 8, the McGladney Cup Qualifying
Tournament July 26, the Whispering Pines Golf Course
Club Championship set for Aug. 30 through Sept. 1, and
the Four-Person Mixed Scramble Sept. 27 and 28. "We'll
have other tournaments this season, but these are the
biggies with all the bells and whistles," Magers said. “We
also have one ladies tournament each year and this year
our Princess Open is scheduled for May 9th with play
starting at 3 p.m., dinner at 5 p.m. and Texas hold’em
games right after dinner. This is a fun afternoon for the
ladies and is for all levels of golfers, especially beginners.”
added Magers.
A beginner or novice golfer may feel too intimidated to
jump right into a tournament, according to Magers, so he
offers individual and group lessons and recommends a few
visits to the base driving range located next to the skeet
range out Independence Avenue where it runs into
Perimeter Road.
The driving range is open every day unless it is raining
or undergoing maintenance, Magers said, and a vending
machine will give you 20 to 25 golf balls for just four
quarters or a $1 bill. The PGA pro also plans a minimum
of three junior clinics and three adult clinics each year to
learn or hone basic "duffing" skills.
"Golf is a great sport for folks who like to get outside,"
Magers said. "Plus, golf gives players great networking
potential and face-time with many commanders and
civilian bosses." A club membership can be highly
beneficial for these and other advantages, he said, which
include unlimited year-round play, a GHIN handicap and
discount entry fees for tournaments.
Club memberships are available to military personnel,
dependents, civilian employees and contractors. "If you
have access to this base, you can be a member," Magers
said. The cost of membership and one-time green fees are
based on rank or pay grade and are more affordable than
other area courses, he said. Whispering Pines also
features a pro shop and offers gift certificates for
merchandise or rounds of golf.
For more information about membership, individual or
group lessons, upcoming tournaments, gift certificates
and more, please call 434-7932.
Base people offered choices in recreational outlets
this trip scheduled for June 17 to 22.
Tour includes transportation, hotel on
International Drive, daily breakfast,
shuttle service to and from the theme
parks. Discount tickets are available
through the ITT office. Cost is $700 for
single room, $780 for two to a room,
$810 for three to a room, $830 for four
to a room and $850 for five in a room.
For more information, call 434-2505.
Tannehill Train Days
A great day of learning for the whole
family. Join the outdoor adventure tour
to Tannehill State Park June 21. Cost is
$20 per person and includes transportation,
day use admission and picnic sack
lunch. The bus will depart at 7 a.m. and
return at 5 p.m. Must have 20 registered
and paid by June 1. Activities
include an iron and steel museum, mini
train ride, fishing in the creek, pioneer
farm, sweet shop, country store, gristmill,
cotton gin and 45 other historic
buildings. For more information, call
434-2505.
Personal Trainer Available
The Fitness Center now has a personal
trainer available and is accepting new
clients. Free consultation sessions are
available. Individual sessions are $12.50
for 30-minutes or $25.00 per hour.
Contact Lindsey Stinets at 425-6982 or
email lstinets@hotmail.com.

Boll Weevil Rumble: The 5th Annual Boll Weevil
Rumble will take place Saturday at 7 p.m. at the Magnolia
Motor Speedway in Columbus, Miss. This event will be featuring
the spring championship for late model stock, rebel
challenge super late models, open wheel modified and street
stock. For more information, call 327-0376 or visit
www.magnoliamotorspeedway.net.
1st Annual Humane Society K-9 Fun Run: The 14th
Comptroller Squadron's Community Partnership Committee
is partnering with the Columbus-Lowndes Humane Society
to sponsor this family fun activity for all. It will be April 26
from 7 to 10 a.m. at the Stennis Lock and Dam East Bank
Recreation Area. Entry fees are $15 each with children
under 12 free. Mail registration forms by April 18 to the
Comptroller Booster Club, C/O Jake Elbe, 408 24th Ave.
North, Columbus, MS 39705. For more information contact
Karen at 327-3107 or download from their website: clhumanesociety.org.
Scholarships available: The Military Officers Association
AROUND TOWN
of America is pleased to offer the base scholarships again this
year. This MOAA program provides grants of $1,000 each to
twenty-five dependent children of military personnel.
MOAA’s immensely successful scholarship grants and zerointerest
loans are currently helping over 1,600 uniformed services
dependents to meet their college expenses. For more
information, visit www.moaa.org/scholarshipfund or by
emailing MOAA at edassist@moaa.org.
Relay for Life: This year’s theme for the Relay for Life is
“Celebrate, Remember, Fight Back.” This 12-hour event will
be held April 18 beginning at 6 p.m. and ending at 6 a.m.
April 19. For more information, call Lenny Ring at 327-5971
or Mott Ellis at 574-1104.
YMCA Annual Banquet: The YMCA will hold its
Annual Banquet April 25 at the Trotter Convention Center,
Columbus, Miss. Sergeant Matt Eversmann, who was immortalized
in the epic film, Black Hawk Down, will speak at the
banquet on Dedication, Pride and Commitment: The Story
of Black Hawk Down, focusing on three attributes that
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 200817
brought him home alive: leadership, courage and selfless service.
It is sure to be an event to remember. The silent auction
will begin at 5:30 p.m., with dinner beginning at 6:45 p.m.
Cost is $60 per person for the silent auction, dinner and
speaker; $440 for an eight person corporate table; and $30 for
balcony seating for the speaker only. Tickets must be purchased
by today and are available at all YMCA locations or
by calling 328-7696.
Market Street Festival: The 13th Annual Market Street
Festival will take place May 2 and 3 in Columbus, Miss. The
times for the events on May 2 are from 7 p.m. to midnight
and 9 a.m. to midnight on May 3. This event was voted a
Southeast Tourism Top 20 Event. For more information, visit
www.marketstreetfestival.com or call 328-6305.
For more information about local area events, e-mail
AFRC@columbus.af.mil or call the Airman and Family
Readiness Center at 434-2790.

18 compete for bench
press championship
Airman Josh Harbin
14th Flying Training Wing
Public Affairs
The fitness center held its semiannual
bench press competition
April 7.
There were 18 competitors divided
into eight men’s weight classes and
one women’s weight class.
The overall lifter in the male
weight class with a maximum lift of
435 lbs. was William Luciano, 14th
Medical Operations Squadron.
Representing the women’s weight
class was Natalie Shovelain of the
14th Force Support Squadron.
Also, the fitness center has established
an incentive program called
“The 300 Pound Club.” Those who
qualify will have their pictures posted
in the weight room along with their
name and maximum lift weight. In
order to enroll in the program,
prospective members must be able to
lift a minimum of 300 lbs. at one of
the semi-annual bench press competitions
hosted by the Fitness Center.
However, if one may lift at least
twice their body weight, they can
qualify for membership assuming it is
less than 300 lbs.
Additionally, women who can
bench press 135 lbs. or more may
qualify as well.
The next bench press competition
is scheduled to be held within the
next six months. All those interested
are encouraged to participate.
(Editor’s Note: Information for this
article was submitted by Andrew Pace of
the 14th FSS.)
Charity Golf Tournament
The Golden Triangle Chapter of the Air Force Association is hosting a
golf tournament April 26 at the Columbus Country Club. There is a 1 p.m.
shotgun start, registrations is from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Entry fee is $50
per player and include green fees, cart and range balls. Ladies teams and
mixed teams are invited to participate. All proceeds will go to enlisted, Air
Force ROTC and Chris Hainsey Memorial Scholarships for Civil Air Patrol.
For more information, call 434-2645.
50th defeats CS
U.S. Air Force photo by Airman Josh Harbin
John Michael Suarez, 14th Communications Squadron, spikes the
ball back across the net in defense against the 50th Flying Training
Squadron Tuesday. The 50th FTS defeated the 14th CS two games to
none, with the scores of the games being 15 to 7 and 15 to 11.
SPORTS
Sports
Shorts
7th time’s a charm
Wing’s 1st Annual Golf Classic:
There will be a golf tournament today at 1
p.m. at the Whispering Pines Golf Course.
For more information, call 434-7932.
Second Annual Golf, Bowl
Tournament: This competition begins at
1 p.m. Friday with 18 holes of golf, scramble
format, and five games of “Baker” style bowling.
Four person teams, any combination of
men or women, will compete. The event is
limited to the first 10 teams entered. Entry is
$40 per person and includes 18 holes of golf,
5 games baker style bowling, dinner, t-shirt
and tee prizes. Entry forms available at Golf
Course and Bowling Center.
Buddy Bass Tournament: This
event will take place April 26 at Columbus
Lake. Cost is $100 per boat, and entry forms
can be found at Outdoor Recreation. The first
place prize will be 70 percent of total purse.
Boat owner must be 18 years of age. There is
no age limit on your no-boat partner. This
SILVER WINGS
April 18, 200819
U.S. Air Force photo by 2nd Lt. Carlos Hernandez
Members of the Specialized Undergraduate Pilot Training Class 08-09 took home the
Blazing Balls of O'Leary crud tournament trophy Friday night following the Specialized
Undergraduate Pilot Training class 08-08 assignment night. The members of the winning
team are: 2nd Lt. Jay Doerfler, 2nd Lt. Ryan Cummings, 2nd Capt. Eric Hutcheson and
2nd Lt. Andre Serra. This is the team's seventh time winning the crud title.
tournament is open to any person eligible to
utilize the Columbus AFB Outdoor
Recreation Programs. Scoring will be determined
by pounds and ounces. The tournament
prize winner will be determined by a
combined stringer weight of 5 or less fish. The
golden rule will be used to determine length.
No fish will be weighed that is less than 12
inches in length. As a penalty for every
undersized fish, there will be one pound subtracted
from total weight. Each live fish will
be returned to the lake. There will be a two
ounce penalty for each dead fish. For more
information, call 434-7861.
Triathlon: This triathlon will take place
May 17. There will be a 750 meter swim, 20K
biking event, and a 5K run. Participants will
start and stop at the Columbus Club. Check
in at 6:45 a.m., race meeting at 7:45 a.m. and
the race starts at 8 a.m. Entry fee is $20 for
individuals or $30 for team if pre-registered
by April 30. Cost will be $25 and $35 the day
of the event. There will be twelve age categories
for those 15 and older. Awards will be
given for the top male and female finisher per
age group, the op three male and female overall,
the top male and female military and the
top team. For more information, call the
Fitness Center at 434-2772.