RANDOLPH JANUARY 21, 2011AIR FORCE BASE 65th Year • No. 3

A publication of the 502nd Air Base Wing – Joint Base San Antonio

INSIDE ... JBSA PROTECTS SERVICEMEMBERS, P3 ... CHANGES TO GI BILL, P4 ... RPA TRAINING, P8 ... COLD-WEATHER EXERCISE TIPS, P9

By Mike Joseph502nd Air Base Wing OL-A Public Affairs

Leaders implementing the federal government’snew consumer protection agency met with JointBase San Antonio servicemembers Tuesday at theGateway Club to discuss the unique financialissues facing military families.

Professor Elizabeth Warren, assistant to thePresident and special adviser to the secretary ofthe treasury on the Consumer FinancialProtection Bureau, and Holly Petraeus, whorecently joined the CFPB implementation team tohelp establish the Office of Servicemember Affairswithin the bureau, will use information gatheredfrom the meeting to mold the new support officefor military members.

“We need to get a sense of what’s happening(financially to servicemembers) because ultimate-ly, we need to be able to build the right supportstructure,” said Professor Warren, who heads theCFPB’s implementation team.

Mrs. Petraeus also emphasized to the group theimportance of communication between service-

members and the Office of Servicemember Affairs,or OSMA.

“We want to make sure your voices are heard in theagency,” Mrs. Petraeus said. “I do realize some ofwhat you’re going through. It’s very important to usthat we hear from you.”

Also wanting to hear from those who serve themilitary community, Professor Warren and Mrs.Petraeus held a roundtable discussion with JBSAfinancial readiness program managers and coun-selors, legal assistance lawyers, chaplains andother professionals who serve the military com-munity. Service providers brought to light theunique personal financial challenges facing mili-tary members today.

The size and diversity of the San Antonio militarycommunity made JBSA a good starting point to assim-ilate information, according to Professor Warren.

“We thought it was an opportunity, in a singlevisit, to get a very broad perspective on the natureof the financial problems facing military families,”she said.

Mrs. Petraeus agreed, adding, “I think it wasgreat to start at a joint base. It’s the wave of the

future, the services all working together. We havea lot of different uniforms in the room and that isvery helpful to us.”

Professor Warren cited Mrs. Petraeus’ extensiveassociation with the military in her selection. Shejoins OSMA after serving the past six years as theBetter Business Bureau’s military line director.Mrs. Petraeus has family military lineage thatdates to her great-grandfather, and has been amilitary spouse for more than 35 years. She is thewife of Army Gen. David Petraeus, the currentInternational Security Assistance Force command-er in Afghanistan.

CFPB is a product of the Dodd-Frank Wall StreetReform and Consumer Protection Act signed into lawlast year. Responsible for enforcing all federal laws inconsumer credit, the new bureau begins operationsJuly 21. It will also provide consumer financial educa-tion and examine financial rules.

“(This agency) is about making sure current lawsare fully observed and that there’s a cop on the beatto ensure that’s the case,” said Professor Warren.

This will be the case for all Americans, and particu-larly for our military families, she added.

Navy Lts. Todd Royles (left) and DavidTickle, Blue Angel pilots, flew their FA-18D Hornet to Randolph Tuesday toconduct a site visit in advance of theBlue Angels’ performance at theRandolph Air Force Base 2011 AirfestOct. 29 and 30. (Photo by David Terry)

Wingspread Office1150 5th Street East

Randolph AFB, Texas 78150Phone: (210) 652-5760

Fax: (210) 652-3142Wingspread Advertisements

Prime Time Military Newspapers2203 S. Hackberry

San Antonio, Texas 78210Phone: (210) 534-8848

Wingspread e-mailnews@randolph.af.mil

This paper is published by Prime Time Military Newspapers, aprivate firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, underexclusive written contract with Randolph AFB, Texas. This com-mercial enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publica-tion for members of the U.S. military services. Contents of theWingspread are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsedby, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or theDepartment of the Air Force.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, includinginserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by theDepartment of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, or PrimeTime Military Newspapers of the products or services advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made avail-able for purchase, use or patronage without regard to the race,color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical ormental handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user, or patron.

Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the PublicAffairs Division of the 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B in accordancewith local policy and style guidance. All photos, unless otherwiseindicated, are U.S. Air Force photos.

Articles for the newspaper should be submitted by noonThursday the week prior to the desired publication date. Items canbe dropped off on a PC- or Macintosh-formatted disk at theWingspread office in Hangar 6.

Articles for submission may also be sent by e-mail tonews@randolph.af.mil.

For details about submissions, call 652-5760.

ON THE COVER

PAGE 3WINGSPREADJANUARY 21, 2011WINGSPREADPAGE 2 JANUARY 21, 2011

COMMENTARY

By 2nd Lt. Bill Kiser81st Comptroller Squadron

As a new financial services officer, Ifound myself spending up to 20 hours aweek on government travel card man-agement tasks – answering questionsfrom agency program coordinators andcommanders who were focused on pro-gram and delinquency management.

My experience wasn’t unusual –many FSOs spend just as much time onsimilar tasks that take us away fromour focus on evaluating and improvingprocesses to ensure customers are paidin an accurate and efficient manner.

One day, an opportunity streamedinto my e-mail. It stated, “Keesler AirForce Base will be piloting theControlled Spend Account program.”

That was my introduction to theCSA program. Over the next severalweeks I saw the benefits of the newcash advance cards that will replacethe GTC.Improvements

At base level, the biggest benefitsoffered by the CSA are manpower sav-ings and increased rebates.

With the GTC, tracking delinquenciesand misuse became a mainstay in dailyand monthly financial services opera-tions. To manage the program effective-ly, financial managers ran eight to 12reports to capture delinquencies. Then,they had to coordinate with agency pro-gram coordinators to follow up on casesof misuse. We did catch the less thanone percent of users who misused thecard, spending a tremendous amount oftime on administrative tasks.

CSA has no reports, only account list-ings. For me, this saved about 12-20hours per week.

When we disbursed cash to completemission requirements prior to the GTC,we didn’t spend hours tracking cashadvance abuses. We just wanted ourAirmen to travel, complete the missionand return home safely. The CSA is amodernized version of that cashadvance system.

The card’s controlled spending limitsare based on the approved travel orderestimates. This cash amount is

uploaded to the card electronically andis visible to both the financial managerand the customer. Because we don’tmonitor how the traveler spends theallotted money, there’s no need to runreports to track misuses. To clarify, thecard should still only be used for officialtravel expenses, but should be used forall travel expenses.

Additionally, delinquencies areextremely limited by the controlledspend capability and Citibank managesthe few instances when overspendingdoes occur. Our responsibility is toensure travelers are using the card forall expenses so major commands andwings can recapitalize rebate dollarsfor mission requirements. The CSA sig-nificantly reduces administrative tasksand increases MAJCOM and wing-levelrebates, but its greatest benefits – morecontrol and freedom – are passed on toour customers.Better for customer

The CSA program gives the cus-tomer the ability to call and establisha temporary spend limit to meetchanges in the mission. An e-mail isgenerated to the approving official asa notification of change, but the trav-eler can complete the mission with nohiccups. The card also provides morefreedom to cardholders. With the CSAprogram, customers no longer need toworry about using the card for thewrong thing; instead, they can focuson managing allocated funds to com-plete the mission.

Additionally, funds saved or earnedwhile traveling can be used in severalways after the temporary duty is over.Customers may choose to transfer theunused funds to other personalaccounts or continue using the card

until the allocated funds are spent. Atthe base level, the new card offersmany benefits to both our customersand our financial managers. As theprogram expands to other bases,sharing our lessons learned will helpfacilitate smooth transitions as CSA isimplemented across the Air Force.

If your organization does switch tothe new CSA, here are some simpleways you can help provide a smoothtransition:

Buy in – We tend to resist change,especially if the current programseems to work. Garner support of theCSA program at every level by ensur-ing everyone knows its ins and outs.Establishing trust with leadership andagency program coordinators willensure a smooth transition.

Letting go – We’ve managed delin-quencies for so long it’s difficult to letgo of past practices. Forget the past –focus on getting the program imple-mented, become an expert and reapthe benefits of the cost and manpow-er savings.

State of the current program – Theinitial phase of the conversion requiresagency program coordinators to scrubcurrent account listings to ensure trav-elers have been transferred, accountsclosed and mailing and e-mail address-es updated. Lack of preparation heremay result in more work.

Training – Providing training is notenough. Travelers, agency programcoordinators and Defense TravelService reviewing or approving officialsmust attend the training. Almost everyquestion I’ve fielded regarding the CSAwas discussed during the initial trainingor is listed in the frequently-asked-questions brochures.

GTC replacement eases hassles

502nd Air Base WingOperating Location Bravo

Editorial StaffBrig. Gen. Leonard Patrick

CommanderMarilyn Holliday

Chief of Public AffairsAirman 1st Class Precious Yett

EditorRobert Goetz, Brian McGloin

Airman Alexis SiekertStaff Writers

Maggie ArmstrongGraphic Designer

WINGSPREAD“Our responsibility is to ensure travelersare using the card for all expenses, so major

commands and wings can recapitalizerebate dollars for mission requirements.”

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT101

JBSA helps mold new servicemember consumer protection office

Photo by Alan Boedeker(Left to right) Rep. Charlie Gonzalez, D-Texas, and Brig. Gen. Leonard Patrick, 502nd Air Base Wing commander, meet with Professor Elizabeth Warren and Holly Petraeus before a townhall meeting with servicemembers and their families Tuesday at the Gateway Club.

By Mike Joseph502nd Air Base Wing OL-A Public Affairs

Leaders implementing the federal government’snew consumer protection agency met with JointBase San Antonio servicemembers Tuesday at theGateway Club to discuss the unique financialissues facing military families.

Professor Elizabeth Warren, assistant to thePresident and special adviser to the secretary ofthe treasury on the Consumer FinancialProtection Bureau, and Holly Petraeus, whorecently joined the CFPB implementation team tohelp establish the Office of Servicemember Affairswithin the bureau, will use information gatheredfrom the meeting to mold the new support officefor military members.

“We need to get a sense of what’s happening(financially to servicemembers) because ultimate-ly, we need to be able to build the right supportstructure,” said Professor Warren, who heads theCFPB’s implementation team.

Mrs. Petraeus also emphasized to the group theimportance of communication between service-

members and the Office of Servicemember Affairs,or OSMA.

“We want to make sure your voices are heard in theagency,” Mrs. Petraeus said. “I do realize some ofwhat you’re going through. It’s very important to usthat we hear from you.”

Also wanting to hear from those who serve themilitary community, Professor Warren and Mrs.Petraeus held a roundtable discussion with JBSAfinancial readiness program managers and coun-selors, legal assistance lawyers, chaplains andother professionals who serve the military com-munity. Service providers brought to light theunique personal financial challenges facing mili-tary members today.

The size and diversity of the San Antonio militarycommunity made JBSA a good starting point to assim-ilate information, according to Professor Warren.

“We thought it was an opportunity, in a singlevisit, to get a very broad perspective on the natureof the financial problems facing military families,”she said.

Mrs. Petraeus agreed, adding, “I think it wasgreat to start at a joint base. It’s the wave of the

future, the services all working together. We havea lot of different uniforms in the room and that isvery helpful to us.”

Professor Warren cited Mrs. Petraeus’ extensiveassociation with the military in her selection. Shejoins OSMA after serving the past six years as theBetter Business Bureau’s military line director.Mrs. Petraeus has family military lineage thatdates to her great-grandfather, and has been amilitary spouse for more than 35 years. She is thewife of Army Gen. David Petraeus, the currentInternational Security Assistance Force command-er in Afghanistan.

CFPB is a product of the Dodd-Frank Wall StreetReform and Consumer Protection Act signed into lawlast year. Responsible for enforcing all federal laws inconsumer credit, the new bureau begins operationsJuly 21. It will also provide consumer financial educa-tion and examine financial rules.

“(This agency) is about making sure current lawsare fully observed and that there’s a cop on the beatto ensure that’s the case,” said Professor Warren.

This will be the case for all Americans, and particu-larly for our military families, she added.

Navy Lts. Todd Royles (left) and DavidTickle, Blue Angel pilots, flew their FA-18D Hornet to Randolph Tuesday toconduct a site visit in advance of theBlue Angels’ performance at theRandolph Air Force Base 2011 AirfestOct. 29 and 30. (Photo by David Terry)

Wingspread Office1150 5th Street East

Randolph AFB, Texas 78150Phone: (210) 652-5760

Fax: (210) 652-3142Wingspread Advertisements

Prime Time Military Newspapers2203 S. Hackberry

San Antonio, Texas 78210Phone: (210) 534-8848

Wingspread e-mailnews@randolph.af.mil

This paper is published by Prime Time Military Newspapers, aprivate firm in no way connected with the U.S. Air Force, underexclusive written contract with Randolph AFB, Texas. This com-mercial enterprise Air Force newspaper is an authorized publica-tion for members of the U.S. military services. Contents of theWingspread are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsedby, the U.S. Government, the Department of Defense, or theDepartment of the Air Force.

The appearance of advertising in this publication, includinginserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsement by theDepartment of Defense, the Department of the Air Force, or PrimeTime Military Newspapers of the products or services advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made avail-able for purchase, use or patronage without regard to the race,color, religion, sex, national origin, age, marital status, physical ormental handicap, political affiliation, or any other non-merit factorof the purchaser, user, or patron.

Editorial content is edited, prepared and provided by the PublicAffairs Division of the 502nd Air Base Wing OL-B in accordancewith local policy and style guidance. All photos, unless otherwiseindicated, are U.S. Air Force photos.

Articles for the newspaper should be submitted by noonThursday the week prior to the desired publication date. Items canbe dropped off on a PC- or Macintosh-formatted disk at theWingspread office in Hangar 6.

Articles for submission may also be sent by e-mail tonews@randolph.af.mil.

For details about submissions, call 652-5760.

ON THE COVER

PAGE 3WINGSPREADJANUARY 21, 2011WINGSPREADPAGE 2 JANUARY 21, 2011

COMMENTARY

By 2nd Lt. Bill Kiser81st Comptroller Squadron

As a new financial services officer, Ifound myself spending up to 20 hours aweek on government travel card man-agement tasks – answering questionsfrom agency program coordinators andcommanders who were focused on pro-gram and delinquency management.

My experience wasn’t unusual –many FSOs spend just as much time onsimilar tasks that take us away fromour focus on evaluating and improvingprocesses to ensure customers are paidin an accurate and efficient manner.

One day, an opportunity streamedinto my e-mail. It stated, “Keesler AirForce Base will be piloting theControlled Spend Account program.”

That was my introduction to theCSA program. Over the next severalweeks I saw the benefits of the newcash advance cards that will replacethe GTC.Improvements

At base level, the biggest benefitsoffered by the CSA are manpower sav-ings and increased rebates.

With the GTC, tracking delinquenciesand misuse became a mainstay in dailyand monthly financial services opera-tions. To manage the program effective-ly, financial managers ran eight to 12reports to capture delinquencies. Then,they had to coordinate with agency pro-gram coordinators to follow up on casesof misuse. We did catch the less thanone percent of users who misused thecard, spending a tremendous amount oftime on administrative tasks.

CSA has no reports, only account list-ings. For me, this saved about 12-20hours per week.

When we disbursed cash to completemission requirements prior to the GTC,we didn’t spend hours tracking cashadvance abuses. We just wanted ourAirmen to travel, complete the missionand return home safely. The CSA is amodernized version of that cashadvance system.

The card’s controlled spending limitsare based on the approved travel orderestimates. This cash amount is

uploaded to the card electronically andis visible to both the financial managerand the customer. Because we don’tmonitor how the traveler spends theallotted money, there’s no need to runreports to track misuses. To clarify, thecard should still only be used for officialtravel expenses, but should be used forall travel expenses.

Additionally, delinquencies areextremely limited by the controlledspend capability and Citibank managesthe few instances when overspendingdoes occur. Our responsibility is toensure travelers are using the card forall expenses so major commands andwings can recapitalize rebate dollarsfor mission requirements. The CSA sig-nificantly reduces administrative tasksand increases MAJCOM and wing-levelrebates, but its greatest benefits – morecontrol and freedom – are passed on toour customers.Better for customer

The CSA program gives the cus-tomer the ability to call and establisha temporary spend limit to meetchanges in the mission. An e-mail isgenerated to the approving official asa notification of change, but the trav-eler can complete the mission with nohiccups. The card also provides morefreedom to cardholders. With the CSAprogram, customers no longer need toworry about using the card for thewrong thing; instead, they can focuson managing allocated funds to com-plete the mission.

Additionally, funds saved or earnedwhile traveling can be used in severalways after the temporary duty is over.Customers may choose to transfer theunused funds to other personalaccounts or continue using the card

until the allocated funds are spent. Atthe base level, the new card offersmany benefits to both our customersand our financial managers. As theprogram expands to other bases,sharing our lessons learned will helpfacilitate smooth transitions as CSA isimplemented across the Air Force.

If your organization does switch tothe new CSA, here are some simpleways you can help provide a smoothtransition:

Buy in – We tend to resist change,especially if the current programseems to work. Garner support of theCSA program at every level by ensur-ing everyone knows its ins and outs.Establishing trust with leadership andagency program coordinators willensure a smooth transition.

Letting go – We’ve managed delin-quencies for so long it’s difficult to letgo of past practices. Forget the past –focus on getting the program imple-mented, become an expert and reapthe benefits of the cost and manpow-er savings.

State of the current program – Theinitial phase of the conversion requiresagency program coordinators to scrubcurrent account listings to ensure trav-elers have been transferred, accountsclosed and mailing and e-mail address-es updated. Lack of preparation heremay result in more work.

Training – Providing training is notenough. Travelers, agency programcoordinators and Defense TravelService reviewing or approving officialsmust attend the training. Almost everyquestion I’ve fielded regarding the CSAwas discussed during the initial trainingor is listed in the frequently-asked-questions brochures.

GTC replacement eases hassles

502nd Air Base WingOperating Location Bravo

Editorial StaffBrig. Gen. Leonard Patrick

CommanderMarilyn Holliday

Chief of Public AffairsAirman 1st Class Precious Yett

EditorRobert Goetz, Brian McGloin

Airman Alexis SiekertStaff Writers

Maggie ArmstrongGraphic Designer

WINGSPREAD“Our responsibility is to ensure travelersare using the card for all expenses, so major

commands and wings can recapitalizerebate dollars for mission requirements.”

FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT101

JBSA helps mold new servicemember consumer protection office

Photo by Alan Boedeker(Left to right) Rep. Charlie Gonzalez, D-Texas, and Brig. Gen. Leonard Patrick, 502nd Air Base Wing commander, meet with Professor Elizabeth Warren and Holly Petraeus before a townhall meeting with servicemembers and their families Tuesday at the Gateway Club.

PAGE 5WINGSPREADJANUARY 21, 2011WINGSPREADPAGE 4 JANUARY 21, 2011

NEWS

WASHINGTON – The Post-9/11 Veterans EducationAssistance Improvements Actof 2010 was recently signedinto law.

Effective Aug. 1, 2009,but not payable until Oct. 1,2011:• Certain National Guardmembers mobilized on Title32 orders on, or after, Sept.11, 2001, are now eligible forthe Post-9/11 GI Bill and anyqualifying Title 32 mobiliza-tion may be used to increaseyour percentage of eligibility.Effective Aug. 1, 2011:• The Post-9/11 GI Bill will pay all public schooltuition and fees; this includes graduate training, out-of-state tuition differential, etc.• For students attending private institutions of higherlearning or foreign schools, the tuition and fee reim-bursement will be capped at the lesser of net out-of-pocket cost or $17,500 annually. However the YellowRibbon Program still exists.

• College fund payments will bepaid on a monthly basis instead of alump sum at the beginning of theterm. Those training at one-halftime or less will be eligible for col-lege fund payments.• Reimbursement will be availablefor multiple licensing and certifica-tion tests.• Reimbursement will be available

for fees paid to take national examina-tions used for admission to an institu-

tion of higher learning, such as the SAT.• Vocational Rehabilitation participants

will be able to elect the higher housingallowance offered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill if

otherwise eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.• Break or interval pay will no longer be payableunder any Department of Veterans Affairs educationbenefit program unless under an executive order ofthe president or due to an emergency situation suchas a natural disaster or strike. Entitlement that previ-ously would have been used for break pay will beavailable for use during a future enrollment. Thismeans that if a semester ends Dec.15, housing

allowance is paid for the first 15 days of Decemberonly. Benefits will begin again when a new semesterbegins. Benefits will be paid for the remaining days ofthat month and term. • Students using other VA education programs areincluded in this change. Monthly benefits will be pro-rated in the same manner.Effective Oct. 1, 2011:• For those training at greater than one-half time,housing allowance will be prorated according to thetraining time those are enrolled in. For example, if aperson’s full housing allowance is $1000, and thatperson is attending three-quarters time, housingallowance would be $750.• Housing allowance will be payable to studentsenrolled solely in distance learning. The housingallowance will be one-half the national average basicallowance for housing for an E-5 with dependents(The rate would be $673.50 for 2011). Non-collegedegree programs, on-the-job training and flight-train-ing programs will be covered under the Post-9/11 GIBill.• The book stipend will be payable to active-dutymembers.

(Courtesy of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)

Changes coming to the post-9/11 GI-Bill Duty Title: Desk sergeant/installation patrolHometown:Columbus, Ga.Hobbies:Mixed martial arts, running, reading literature andlearning JapanesePersonal Inspiration:My father, who is my hero and role modelPersonal Motto:“Study strategy over the years and achieve the spiritof the Warrior. Today is victory over yourself of yes-terday; tomorrow is your victory over lesser men.” –Miyamoto Musashi

Greatest Accomplishment:Being married to my wife, Eriko, which has been thebest part of my lifeGoals:To become a certified English teacher in JapanPet Peeve:People who are close-minded Commander’s Comments:“Staff Sgt. James Grant is a consummate profession-al and an outstanding mentor to our younger Airmen.You can see his passion to learn and excel in every-thing he does. I have no doubt that he is a futureleader in security forces.”

Maj. Robert Ford902nd Security Forces Squadron commander

Staff Sgt. James Grant902nd Security Forces Squadron

Photo by David Terry

Historic flight

Capt. John Hayes (left), 451stFlying Training Squadron, and Col.Richard Murphy (right), 12th FlyingTraining Wing commander, give apre-flight briefing to 451st FTSCombat Systems Officer students(second from left to right) 2nd Lts. Maria Quatse and HenryFortinbery Jan 12 at Naval AirStation Pensacola, Fla. Thesestudents participated in the firsttraining flight in a modified T-1 A.Colonel Murphy served as the pilotfor this historic flight. When CSOclass 11-01 finishes the T-1segment of training this spring, theywill receive their aviator wings andfill assignments for the Air Force inthe areas of navigation, electronicwarfare and weapon systemsemployment.Photo by 2nd Lt. Colin Blount

By Airman Alexis Siekert502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs

In the spirit of the New Year, many make the tradi-tional weight-loss resolution. Some turn to crash diet-ing for fast results, but Jennifer Sides, registered dieti-tian at the Randolph Health and Wellness Center, saidthey are not only overall ineffective, but dangerous.

Fad diets prove to be counterproductive, causingdieters to not only gain the lost weight back, but alsoadd a few additional pounds.

“These diets don’t change lifestyles,” Ms. Sides said.“They offer quick fixes and never teach you healthyeating habits.”

Quick-fix diets, where participants lose largeamounts of weight in a short amount of time, are veryunhealthy, Ms. Sides said. Crash diets are usually veryrestrictive and hard to stick to.

“Yo-yo dieting is detrimental to your metabolism, takinga toll in your late 30s and 40s,” she said.

With inconsistent dieting and weight loss, metabolismwill slow, making it harder to keep weight off.

Some diets, such as the Atkins Diet, forces dieters tocut out entire food groups. This can cause dehydration,deficiencies, fatigue, irritability and bone issues, includ-ing osteoporosis, she said.

“A lot of times we see crash dieting in conjunction withphysical training testing,” Ms. Sides said.

Servicemembers pair a strict diet with hard training toimprove scores and waist measurements; however, theseresults are only temporary.

“When you are very active, you need to consumemore calories,” she said. “Without eating enough, youwon’t have fuel to keep you going.”

The weight lost with these programs and dietstends to be only water and muscle weight, she said.After the diet is completed, participants will return totheir old eating patterns, or overindulge due to thelimitations, and gain back only fat.

Some dieters are unaware that they are crash diet-ing. Ms. Sides distinguishes them by the strict, rigidmeal plans and rules, and the promise of a large loss ina short amount of time with little exercise.

“When I question someone’s diet, I always ask, ‘Is thissomething you could stick with for the rest of your life?’and if the answer is no, then I advise against it,” she said.

A healthy weight loss trend is slow, Ms. Sides said. Onehalf to two pounds per week is a “healthy medium.”

Some desperate dieters turn to weight-loss medica-tions, which are unhealthy and dangerous, she said.They increase the user’s heart rate and blood pressure,potentially leading to stroke.

“Fat-burning pills are regulated by the U.S. Food andDrug Administration as food products, not medication;therefore they are not safe,” Ms. Sides said.

The pills contain large amounts of caffeine and

ephedrine, an energy-boosting medication withdangerous side effects.

The Health and Wellness Center can offer assistance.For more information, contact the HAWC or Jennifer

Sides at 652-2300.

Dangers abound with crash dieting

Graphic by Joe Beach

PAGE 5WINGSPREADJANUARY 21, 2011WINGSPREADPAGE 4 JANUARY 21, 2011

NEWS

WASHINGTON – The Post-9/11 Veterans EducationAssistance Improvements Actof 2010 was recently signedinto law.

Effective Aug. 1, 2009,but not payable until Oct. 1,2011:• Certain National Guardmembers mobilized on Title32 orders on, or after, Sept.11, 2001, are now eligible forthe Post-9/11 GI Bill and anyqualifying Title 32 mobiliza-tion may be used to increaseyour percentage of eligibility.Effective Aug. 1, 2011:• The Post-9/11 GI Bill will pay all public schooltuition and fees; this includes graduate training, out-of-state tuition differential, etc.• For students attending private institutions of higherlearning or foreign schools, the tuition and fee reim-bursement will be capped at the lesser of net out-of-pocket cost or $17,500 annually. However the YellowRibbon Program still exists.

• College fund payments will bepaid on a monthly basis instead of alump sum at the beginning of theterm. Those training at one-halftime or less will be eligible for col-lege fund payments.• Reimbursement will be availablefor multiple licensing and certifica-tion tests.• Reimbursement will be available

for fees paid to take national examina-tions used for admission to an institu-

tion of higher learning, such as the SAT.• Vocational Rehabilitation participants

will be able to elect the higher housingallowance offered by the Post-9/11 GI Bill if

otherwise eligible for the Post-9/11 GI Bill.• Break or interval pay will no longer be payableunder any Department of Veterans Affairs educationbenefit program unless under an executive order ofthe president or due to an emergency situation suchas a natural disaster or strike. Entitlement that previ-ously would have been used for break pay will beavailable for use during a future enrollment. Thismeans that if a semester ends Dec.15, housing

allowance is paid for the first 15 days of Decemberonly. Benefits will begin again when a new semesterbegins. Benefits will be paid for the remaining days ofthat month and term. • Students using other VA education programs areincluded in this change. Monthly benefits will be pro-rated in the same manner.Effective Oct. 1, 2011:• For those training at greater than one-half time,housing allowance will be prorated according to thetraining time those are enrolled in. For example, if aperson’s full housing allowance is $1000, and thatperson is attending three-quarters time, housingallowance would be $750.• Housing allowance will be payable to studentsenrolled solely in distance learning. The housingallowance will be one-half the national average basicallowance for housing for an E-5 with dependents(The rate would be $673.50 for 2011). Non-collegedegree programs, on-the-job training and flight-train-ing programs will be covered under the Post-9/11 GIBill.• The book stipend will be payable to active-dutymembers.

(Courtesy of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs)

Changes coming to the post-9/11 GI-Bill Duty Title: Desk sergeant/installation patrolHometown:Columbus, Ga.Hobbies:Mixed martial arts, running, reading literature andlearning JapanesePersonal Inspiration:My father, who is my hero and role modelPersonal Motto:“Study strategy over the years and achieve the spiritof the Warrior. Today is victory over yourself of yes-terday; tomorrow is your victory over lesser men.” –Miyamoto Musashi

Greatest Accomplishment:Being married to my wife, Eriko, which has been thebest part of my lifeGoals:To become a certified English teacher in JapanPet Peeve:People who are close-minded Commander’s Comments:“Staff Sgt. James Grant is a consummate profession-al and an outstanding mentor to our younger Airmen.You can see his passion to learn and excel in every-thing he does. I have no doubt that he is a futureleader in security forces.”

Maj. Robert Ford902nd Security Forces Squadron commander

Staff Sgt. James Grant902nd Security Forces Squadron

Photo by David Terry

Historic flight

Capt. John Hayes (left), 451stFlying Training Squadron, and Col.Richard Murphy (right), 12th FlyingTraining Wing commander, give apre-flight briefing to 451st FTSCombat Systems Officer students(second from left to right) 2nd Lts. Maria Quatse and HenryFortinbery Jan 12 at Naval AirStation Pensacola, Fla. Thesestudents participated in the firsttraining flight in a modified T-1 A.Colonel Murphy served as the pilotfor this historic flight. When CSOclass 11-01 finishes the T-1segment of training this spring, theywill receive their aviator wings andfill assignments for the Air Force inthe areas of navigation, electronicwarfare and weapon systemsemployment.Photo by 2nd Lt. Colin Blount

By Airman Alexis Siekert502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs

In the spirit of the New Year, many make the tradi-tional weight-loss resolution. Some turn to crash diet-ing for fast results, but Jennifer Sides, registered dieti-tian at the Randolph Health and Wellness Center, saidthey are not only overall ineffective, but dangerous.

Fad diets prove to be counterproductive, causingdieters to not only gain the lost weight back, but alsoadd a few additional pounds.

“These diets don’t change lifestyles,” Ms. Sides said.“They offer quick fixes and never teach you healthyeating habits.”

Quick-fix diets, where participants lose largeamounts of weight in a short amount of time, are veryunhealthy, Ms. Sides said. Crash diets are usually veryrestrictive and hard to stick to.

“Yo-yo dieting is detrimental to your metabolism, takinga toll in your late 30s and 40s,” she said.

With inconsistent dieting and weight loss, metabolismwill slow, making it harder to keep weight off.

Some diets, such as the Atkins Diet, forces dieters tocut out entire food groups. This can cause dehydration,deficiencies, fatigue, irritability and bone issues, includ-ing osteoporosis, she said.

“A lot of times we see crash dieting in conjunction withphysical training testing,” Ms. Sides said.

Servicemembers pair a strict diet with hard training toimprove scores and waist measurements; however, theseresults are only temporary.

“When you are very active, you need to consumemore calories,” she said. “Without eating enough, youwon’t have fuel to keep you going.”

The weight lost with these programs and dietstends to be only water and muscle weight, she said.After the diet is completed, participants will return totheir old eating patterns, or overindulge due to thelimitations, and gain back only fat.

Some dieters are unaware that they are crash diet-ing. Ms. Sides distinguishes them by the strict, rigidmeal plans and rules, and the promise of a large loss ina short amount of time with little exercise.

“When I question someone’s diet, I always ask, ‘Is thissomething you could stick with for the rest of your life?’and if the answer is no, then I advise against it,” she said.

A healthy weight loss trend is slow, Ms. Sides said. Onehalf to two pounds per week is a “healthy medium.”

Some desperate dieters turn to weight-loss medica-tions, which are unhealthy and dangerous, she said.They increase the user’s heart rate and blood pressure,potentially leading to stroke.

“Fat-burning pills are regulated by the U.S. Food andDrug Administration as food products, not medication;therefore they are not safe,” Ms. Sides said.

The pills contain large amounts of caffeine and

ephedrine, an energy-boosting medication withdangerous side effects.

The Health and Wellness Center can offer assistance.For more information, contact the HAWC or Jennifer

Sides at 652-2300.

Dangers abound with crash dieting

Graphic by Joe Beach

PAGE 7WINGSPREADJANUARY 21, 2011

RetirementsCongratulations to Col. James Horton and Master Sgt.

Cameron Jones, Air Force Personnel Center, and Master Sgt.Alton Lee, Air Education and Training Command, on theirretirement.

BAMC clinic movesEffective Monday, the outpatient pain management clinic at

Brooke Army Medical Center will be located in the hospital’sfirst-floor medical mall. The clinic’s new waiting area will beadjacent to the hospital’s main pharmacy. The clinic’s medica-tion line, 916-4625, is operational.

For the front desk, call 916-2888.

Technology ExpoThe 902nd Communications Squadron hosts a Technology

Expo Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Parr Club. For moreinformation, call Merita McToy at 652-0541.

Information fairThe Randolph Exceptional Family Member Program

Information Fair takes place Wednesday from 5-6:30 p.m. at theAirman and Family Readiness Center, Bldg. 693. The event willfeature representatives from organizations that provide servicesfor families with special-needs members.

For more information, call 652-5321.

Special duty briefingThe Air Education and Training Command Special Duty

Team will host a special duty briefing Thursday at 8:30 a.m.in the base theater. Airmen first class with at least 24 monthstime in service through technical sergeants with less than 16years total active federal military service are invited to learnabout special duties. For details, call 652-2525.

Bass guitar accompanist position availableThe Randolph Air Force Base chapel currently has a position

for bass guitar accompanist available. For details on the appli-cation process, call Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Roth at 652-6121.

Base BRIEFS

“TRON: Legacy” (PG)Olivia Wilde, Jeff Bridges

Today @ 7 p.m. and Saturday @ 6 p.m.

“The Tourist” (PG-13)Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie

Sunday @ 3 p.m.

NOW SHOWING atthe Randolph Theater

$4.50 for adults, $2.25 for children 0-11

WINGSPREADPAGE 6 JANUARY 21, 2011

Noteworthy

Maj. Gen. A.J.Stewart, Air ForcePersonnel Center

commander, speaksduring the Joint Base

San Antonio MartinLuther King Dayluncheon at the

Gateway Club Jan. 14.General Stewart deliv-

ered the luncheon’skeynote address, “TheDream: A Look to the

Future.”Photo by Robbin Cresswell

Teen Lock-NThe Youth Center

hosts a Teen Lock-NJan. 28 from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. The cost is $20for members and $25for non-members.

Activities, games,movies, dinner, mid-night snack and break-fast are included.

For more information,contact Andrea Black at652-3298.

By Robert Goetz502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs

Some of the more popular NewYear’s resolutions include spendingmore time with family and friends,becoming more fit, losing weight andgetting out of debt, but few are a mat-ter of life and death.

A resolution recommended byRandolph Fire Emergency Servicescan truly save lives.

“We expect to feel safe and secureinside our homes, so this is a greattime to set a resolution for improvedfire safety throughout the year andtake a few minutes to make ourhomes safer from fires,” said JamesSmith, 902nd Civil Engineer Squadronfire protection inspector.

Making homes safer starts withproper planning, he said.

“Plan ahead,” Mr. Smith urges fami-lies. “If a fire breaks out in yourhome, you may only have a few min-utes to get out safely once the smokealarm sounds. Everyone needs toknow what to do and where to go ifthere is a fire.”

Families should first draw up ahome escape plan, Mr. Smith advised.

“Then, practice the plan at night andduring the day with everyone in yourhome twice a year,” he said. “Know atleast two ways out of every room, ifpossible, and make sure all doors andwindows leading outside open easily.”

Mr. Smith said families should alsodesignate an outside meeting place asafe distance from the home andmake sure children can escape ontheir own if necessary. Calling 911should also be a part of the plan.

He said preparing for a fire or otheremergency will make panic on the partof family members less likely.

“Panicking is just part of life; there’sreally no way to avoid it,” he said.“But if you are prepared for the situa-tion at hand, it becomes less eventful.Practicing for an emergency lessensthe stress.”

The use of smoke alarms – testingthem once a month, changing theirbatteries annually and making surethere is one by each bedroom – isanother important part of fire safetyin the home, Mr. Smith said.

“A good rule of thumb would be tohave one in every bedroom, outsideeach separate sleeping area and onevery level of the home, includingthe basement,” he said. “It’s best to

have them all interconnected aswell, because if one sounds, they allsound.”

Types of smoke detectors are ioniza-tion, which are more responsive toflaming fires, and photoelectric, whichare generally more responsive to smol-dering fires, Mr. Smith said.

“For best protection, install bothtypes, and they do make a combina-tion type – photoelectric/ionization –as well,” he said.

Mr. Smith recommends familieskeep a multi-purpose dry chemical-type fire extinguisher in the home andlearn how to operate it, but use it onlywhen a fire is in its beginning stage.

“If you feel the fire is too big to con-trol, then it probably is,” he said.“Immediately evacuate the area andcall the fire department.”

Mr. Smith said families should alsobe aware of fire hazards in thehome, especially stove-top cooking,which represents the leading causeof home fires. Other hazards areportable electric space heaters,chimneys, smoking, faulty electricalcords and candles.

Randolph officials stress home fire safety“Plan ahead. If a fire breaks out in your home, youmay only have a few minutes to get out safely oncethe smoke alarm sounds. Everyone needs to know

what to do and where to go if there is a fire.”James Smith

902nd Civil Engineer Squadron fire protection inspector

Jesus Lopez, 902nd CivilEngineer Squadron fireprotection inspector, talksabout the importance ofsmoke detectors andescape planning toRandolph ElementarySchool students.Courtesy photo

PAGE 7WINGSPREADJANUARY 21, 2011

RetirementsCongratulations to Col. James Horton and Master Sgt.

Cameron Jones, Air Force Personnel Center, and Master Sgt.Alton Lee, Air Education and Training Command, on theirretirement.

BAMC clinic movesEffective Monday, the outpatient pain management clinic at

Brooke Army Medical Center will be located in the hospital’sfirst-floor medical mall. The clinic’s new waiting area will beadjacent to the hospital’s main pharmacy. The clinic’s medica-tion line, 916-4625, is operational.

For the front desk, call 916-2888.

Technology ExpoThe 902nd Communications Squadron hosts a Technology

Expo Tuesday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Parr Club. For moreinformation, call Merita McToy at 652-0541.

Information fairThe Randolph Exceptional Family Member Program

Information Fair takes place Wednesday from 5-6:30 p.m. at theAirman and Family Readiness Center, Bldg. 693. The event willfeature representatives from organizations that provide servicesfor families with special-needs members.

For more information, call 652-5321.

Special duty briefingThe Air Education and Training Command Special Duty

Team will host a special duty briefing Thursday at 8:30 a.m.in the base theater. Airmen first class with at least 24 monthstime in service through technical sergeants with less than 16years total active federal military service are invited to learnabout special duties. For details, call 652-2525.

Bass guitar accompanist position availableThe Randolph Air Force Base chapel currently has a position

for bass guitar accompanist available. For details on the appli-cation process, call Tech. Sgt. Jennifer Roth at 652-6121.

Base BRIEFS

“TRON: Legacy” (PG)Olivia Wilde, Jeff Bridges

Today @ 7 p.m. and Saturday @ 6 p.m.

“The Tourist” (PG-13)Johnny Depp, Angelina Jolie

Sunday @ 3 p.m.

NOW SHOWING atthe Randolph Theater

$4.50 for adults, $2.25 for children 0-11

WINGSPREADPAGE 6 JANUARY 21, 2011

Noteworthy

Maj. Gen. A.J.Stewart, Air ForcePersonnel Center

commander, speaksduring the Joint Base

San Antonio MartinLuther King Dayluncheon at the

Gateway Club Jan. 14.General Stewart deliv-

ered the luncheon’skeynote address, “TheDream: A Look to the

Future.”Photo by Robbin Cresswell

Teen Lock-NThe Youth Center

hosts a Teen Lock-NJan. 28 from 8 p.m. to 7 a.m. The cost is $20for members and $25for non-members.

Activities, games,movies, dinner, mid-night snack and break-fast are included.

For more information,contact Andrea Black at652-3298.

By Robert Goetz502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs

Some of the more popular NewYear’s resolutions include spendingmore time with family and friends,becoming more fit, losing weight andgetting out of debt, but few are a mat-ter of life and death.

A resolution recommended byRandolph Fire Emergency Servicescan truly save lives.

“We expect to feel safe and secureinside our homes, so this is a greattime to set a resolution for improvedfire safety throughout the year andtake a few minutes to make ourhomes safer from fires,” said JamesSmith, 902nd Civil Engineer Squadronfire protection inspector.

Making homes safer starts withproper planning, he said.

“Plan ahead,” Mr. Smith urges fami-lies. “If a fire breaks out in yourhome, you may only have a few min-utes to get out safely once the smokealarm sounds. Everyone needs toknow what to do and where to go ifthere is a fire.”

Families should first draw up ahome escape plan, Mr. Smith advised.

“Then, practice the plan at night andduring the day with everyone in yourhome twice a year,” he said. “Know atleast two ways out of every room, ifpossible, and make sure all doors andwindows leading outside open easily.”

Mr. Smith said families should alsodesignate an outside meeting place asafe distance from the home andmake sure children can escape ontheir own if necessary. Calling 911should also be a part of the plan.

He said preparing for a fire or otheremergency will make panic on the partof family members less likely.

“Panicking is just part of life; there’sreally no way to avoid it,” he said.“But if you are prepared for the situa-tion at hand, it becomes less eventful.Practicing for an emergency lessensthe stress.”

The use of smoke alarms – testingthem once a month, changing theirbatteries annually and making surethere is one by each bedroom – isanother important part of fire safetyin the home, Mr. Smith said.

“A good rule of thumb would be tohave one in every bedroom, outsideeach separate sleeping area and onevery level of the home, includingthe basement,” he said. “It’s best to

have them all interconnected aswell, because if one sounds, they allsound.”

Types of smoke detectors are ioniza-tion, which are more responsive toflaming fires, and photoelectric, whichare generally more responsive to smol-dering fires, Mr. Smith said.

“For best protection, install bothtypes, and they do make a combina-tion type – photoelectric/ionization –as well,” he said.

Mr. Smith recommends familieskeep a multi-purpose dry chemical-type fire extinguisher in the home andlearn how to operate it, but use it onlywhen a fire is in its beginning stage.

“If you feel the fire is too big to con-trol, then it probably is,” he said.“Immediately evacuate the area andcall the fire department.”

Mr. Smith said families should alsobe aware of fire hazards in thehome, especially stove-top cooking,which represents the leading causeof home fires. Other hazards areportable electric space heaters,chimneys, smoking, faulty electricalcords and candles.

Randolph officials stress home fire safety“Plan ahead. If a fire breaks out in your home, youmay only have a few minutes to get out safely oncethe smoke alarm sounds. Everyone needs to know

what to do and where to go if there is a fire.”James Smith

902nd Civil Engineer Squadron fire protection inspector

Jesus Lopez, 902nd CivilEngineer Squadron fireprotection inspector, talksabout the importance ofsmoke detectors andescape planning toRandolph ElementarySchool students.Courtesy photo

PAGE 9WINGSPREADJANUARY 21, 2011WINGSPREADPAGE 8 JANUARY 21, 2011

(Editor’s note: For security reasons, the last names ofthe members of the 558th Flying Training Squadron,which is responsible for training remotely piloted air-craft pilots and basic sensor operator candidates, havebeen withheld in this article.)

By Robert Goetz502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs

Fresh from Air Force Initial Flight Training inPueblo, Colo., a group of eight young second lieu-tenants are redefining the education of remotelypiloted aircraft aviators at Randolph’s 558th FlyingTraining Squadron.

The young officers, who started hitting the booksthis month, represent a new direction in RPA pilottraining as the first students who have entered thenew, burgeoning career field directly from their com-missioning source.

“These guys are a fresh canvas for instructorsto build on; these guys have no past experience tomuddy the waters, no bad habits to break,” saidLt. Col. Russell, 558th FTS director of opera-tions. “They are all very motivated; the RPAcommunity will really benefit from this.”

The groundbreaking training program,which consists of the RPA InstrumentQualification Course for officers, the BasicSensor Operator Course for enlisted Airmenand the RPA Fundamentals Course for RIQCand BSOC alumni, started in 2009 with officersand enlisted servicemembers cross-training intothe new career field.

For the officer training, the chief of staff of theAir Force directed a five-class “beta” test beforethe new career field was formally approved.During the beta test, officers with prior opera-tional experience as navigators, air battle man-agers and other non-rated specialties attended thenew undergraduate RPA training at Randolph.The last beta class finishes their training atRandolph this month.

“This is our first class from the commissioningsources, the Air Force Academy and ROTC,” saidCapt. Michael, 558th FTS RIQ flight commander.“They applied for this career field; they placed iton their dream sheets. It’s a parallel pipeline toestablished pilot training.”

After being commissioned as officers, the stu-dents spent more than two months at Pueblo,where they trained with aspiring traditional pilots.Now assigned to Randolph, they will take the RIQcourse and the fundamentals course and hope tobecome part of what their squadron commanderonce called not just the future of the Air Force’saviation arm, but “the most sought-after capabili-ty in theater.” After completing the fundamentalscourse they will move on to Creech or Holloman

Air Force Base for further training and to Creech,Cannon AFB or Whiteman AFB to begin theiroperational careers.

One of the RIQ instructors, Chris, a former AirForce instructor pilot, described the course.

“We’re using T-6 simulators as training devices tointroduce them to instrument flying and contact fly-ing,” he said. “It’s similar to what all Air Force pilotsget. Students will have about 36 simulator hours and140 academic hours. We are doing the first four and ahalf months of pilot training in two and a half months.Minus formation flying, RIQ training is the same train-ing that every Air Force pilot gets.”

Captain Michael said the course proceeds at afaster pace than traditional pilot training becausethey “don’t have to deal with weather and aircraftmaintenance issues.”

Chris said the RIQ course is not static.“We’ve gotten feedback from students and

instructors,” he said. “It’s an evolving course tomeet the needs of our customers.”

Chris estimated 10 classes will take the RIQcourse each year.

Active duty and civilian istructors will help studentsmaster their objectives, Chris said.

“Pilots have to know a lot,” he said.“They’re responsible for the actions oftheir crew members.”

Captain Mike said students can counton 12-hour days.

“That doesn’t even include studytime,” he said. “Most have not had this

type of intensity before. It’s a lot ofinformation. It’s completely different from

what they’ve done before.”Two students, 2nd Lts. Joel and Bill, look

forward to the challenges of the RIQ course andbecoming RPA pilots.

“This sounded like a dream job,” saidLieutenant Joel, an Air Force Academy graduate.“It’s exactly what I wanted to do.”

Lieutenant Bill, who completed a university ROTCprogram in Massachusetts, said he did not meetvision requirements to become a traditional pilot,but found the perfect fit for him after all.

“This is definitely what I wanted,” he said. “Learningabout it has made me want to do it even more. I want-ed to be part of the fight.”

Both students acknowledged the RIQ course isdemanding.

Lieutenant Joel said he expects simulatortraining to be more difficult than “flying anactual aircraft.”

“You need thick skin because it’s military training,”Lieutenant Bill said. “They expect a lot from you.”

Students in the RIQ course are now studying atthe 559th Flying Training Squadron, while enlist-ed Airmen are taking BSOC classes in temporarybuildings near Air Education and TrainingCommand headquarters. They will soon join stu-dents in the RPA Fundamentals Course at the for-mer home of the 563rd FTS, which is being refur-bished following the inactivation of the 563rd, foranother new chapter in the fledgling training pro-gram’s history.

“It’s a great thing to be on the leading edge of the AirForce,” Chris said. “It’s made phenomenal strides afterit was stood up as a beta.”

RPA training begins new chapter with infusion of youngest students“This is our first class from the commissioning sources,the Air Force Academy and ROTC. They applied for thiscareer field; they placed it on their dream sheets. It’s a

parallel pipeline to established pilot training.”Capt. Michael

558th FTS RPA Instrument Qualification flight commander

WAVE OF THE FUTURE

MQ-1 Predator

9 a.m. - Step11 a.m. - Step11:15 a.m. - Cycling5 p.m. - Step5:15 p.m. - Cycling6 p.m. - Yoga7:15 p.m. - Kick Boxing

9 a.m. - Yoga10 a.m. - Senior Strength 11 a.m. - Step5 p.m. - Zumba5:15 p.m. - Cycling6 p.m. - Kick Boxing

9 a.m. - Step11 a.m. - Step11:15 a.m. - Cycling4 p.m. - Power Yoga5 p.m. - Zumba5:15 p.m. - Cycling6 p.m. - Pilates7:15 p.m. - Kick Boxing

9 a.m. - Step/Weights9 a.m. - Yoga10 a.m. - Senior Strength11 a.m. - Step5 p.m. - Zumba6 p.m. - Kick Boxing

9 a.m. - Step10:15 a.m. - Cardiofusion11:15 a.m. - Cycling5:30 p.m. - Yoga

9 a.m. - Kick Boxing9 a.m. - Pilates10:15 a.m. - Zumba

SUNDAYS1 p.m. - Yoga

MONDAYS TUESDAYS WEDNESDAYS THURSDAYS FRIDAYS SATURDAYS

Rambler Fitness Center group exercise class schedule for January

$3 per class. For details on class passes or holiday class schedules, call the Rambler Fitness Center at 652-2955.Equipment orientation available upon request for all patrons.

SPORTS – HEALTH – FITNESS

Course renovationsThe 10th hole at the

Randolph Oaks Golf Courseis closed during the monthof January to clean up con-centrations of lead andpolycyclic and polynucleararomatic hydrocarbons. Atemporary hole will beestablished for use duringthis time.

Twilight golf hoursThe Randolph Oaks Golf

Course offers the followingTwilight and Super Twilighthours and prices:• Twilight hours normallystart at 1 p.m.• Twilight Monday-Friday:$11 to walk and $20 to ride •Twilight weekends andholidays: $12 to walk and$21 to ride•Super Twilight Monday-Friday: start at 5 p.m. with$6 to walk and $12 to ride

Driving rangeThe Randolph Oaks Golf

Course driving range isclosed Monday morningsfor maintenance.

Golfers can buy a fullbasket of balls for only $6or a half basket for $3.

SportsBRIEFS

By Brian McGloin502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs

As the temperature drops to below freezingfrom the sweltering summer sun, those whoexercise outside need to take precautions.

Kimberly Houk, Randolph Health andWellness Center exercise physiologist, said themost important things to remember in colderweather are hydration and layering.

“Proper hydration is important, but not justbefore or after, all day long,” she said. “Wateris the best means of hydration.”

Dehydration is something one needs to con-sider in cooler temperatures in addition towarmer summer months.

“You need to stay well hydrated whenexercising in cold weather just as you dowhen exercising in warm weather,” theMayo Clinic suggests. “You can becomejust as dehydrated in the cold as in theheat from sweating, breathing andincreased urine production, but it may beharder to notice during cold weather.”

Another very important consideration incool weather – whether being physically activeor relaxing – is how one is dressed. It’s impor-tant to dress properly for the weather for safe-ty and comfort.

Ms. Houk said the best way to dress is in lay-ers. The fabrics closest to the skin should bemoisture-wicking and non-absorbing to keepthe skin as dry as possible. Cotton and absorb-ing fabrics should be avoided. The way mostinsulation works is by trapping warm air nextto the skin. If the area is wet, then body heathas a quick escape route.

Certain types of silk, modern wool and poly-ester fabrics and various blends offer excellentmoisture-wicking properties, which feel warmand comfortable against the skin.

Over the moisture-wicking or base layer, oneshould wear an insulating layer, or mid layer,

appropriate for the conditions and activity. Theinsulating layer can be modern wool, fleecelike the extended cold weather clothing systemservicemembers are issued or other similarcommercially available clothing.

Depending on the conditions, this may beenough. But, if it’s raining or windy, then alight windbreaker or waterproof jacket keepsthe wearer warm and dry.

“As you warm up, you can take them off butyou need to put them back on as you cooldown,” Ms. Houk said about mid and upperlayers of clothing.

The jacket and pants of the improvedphysical training uniform issued to Airmenare designed for cold and wet weathertraining. Sometimes, simply adding a baselayer under the IPTU shirt or shorts makesa world of difference.

In very cold weather, one should keepextremities covered to prevent frostbite andhelp the body maintain temperature.

“It is very important to cover extremitiessuch as your head with a hat or scarf andhands with gloves or mittens,” Ms. Houk said.

The Mayo Clinic suggests wearing ascarf to keep the face covered and towarm air before inhaling. A scarf or headband can also be used to cover ears.

“It’s wise to check the weather forecast,”Ms. Houk said.

“Data from the National Safety Council sug-gests little danger to individuals with properlyclothed skin exposed at 20 degreesFahrenheit, even with a 30-mile-per-hourwind,” said cold weather guidelines from theAmerican Council on Exercise. “A danger doesexist for individuals with exposed skin whenthe wind chill factor (combined effect of tem-perature and wind) falls below minus 20degrees Fahrenheit. That can be achieved byany combination of temperatures below 20degrees Fahrenheit with a wind of 40 miles

per hour and temperatures below minus 20degrees Fahrenheit with no wind.”

Ms. Houk said it’s important to warm upbefore physical exertion as well as coolingdown after.

“When finished with an activity, it’s impor-tant to cool down or slow down before youstop completely,” she said. “If you’re a begin-ner or seasoned, it’s important to graduallyincrease your program. Never add more than10 percent to your current program.”

“In South Texas we’re sheltered from thecold – we’re cold when it’s 50 degrees,”she said. “People have different tolerancesfor heat and cold.”

Fitness center offers cold-weather workouts

Photo by Dave TerrySenior Airman Jennifer Stafford, Air ForcePersonnel Center, makes use of the RamblerFitness Center’s indoor running track duringrecent cold weather.

PAGE 9WINGSPREADJANUARY 21, 2011WINGSPREADPAGE 8 JANUARY 21, 2011

(Editor’s note: For security reasons, the last names ofthe members of the 558th Flying Training Squadron,which is responsible for training remotely piloted air-craft pilots and basic sensor operator candidates, havebeen withheld in this article.)

By Robert Goetz502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs

Fresh from Air Force Initial Flight Training inPueblo, Colo., a group of eight young second lieu-tenants are redefining the education of remotelypiloted aircraft aviators at Randolph’s 558th FlyingTraining Squadron.

The young officers, who started hitting the booksthis month, represent a new direction in RPA pilottraining as the first students who have entered thenew, burgeoning career field directly from their com-missioning source.

“These guys are a fresh canvas for instructorsto build on; these guys have no past experience tomuddy the waters, no bad habits to break,” saidLt. Col. Russell, 558th FTS director of opera-tions. “They are all very motivated; the RPAcommunity will really benefit from this.”

The groundbreaking training program,which consists of the RPA InstrumentQualification Course for officers, the BasicSensor Operator Course for enlisted Airmenand the RPA Fundamentals Course for RIQCand BSOC alumni, started in 2009 with officersand enlisted servicemembers cross-training intothe new career field.

For the officer training, the chief of staff of theAir Force directed a five-class “beta” test beforethe new career field was formally approved.During the beta test, officers with prior opera-tional experience as navigators, air battle man-agers and other non-rated specialties attended thenew undergraduate RPA training at Randolph.The last beta class finishes their training atRandolph this month.

“This is our first class from the commissioningsources, the Air Force Academy and ROTC,” saidCapt. Michael, 558th FTS RIQ flight commander.“They applied for this career field; they placed iton their dream sheets. It’s a parallel pipeline toestablished pilot training.”

After being commissioned as officers, the stu-dents spent more than two months at Pueblo,where they trained with aspiring traditional pilots.Now assigned to Randolph, they will take the RIQcourse and the fundamentals course and hope tobecome part of what their squadron commanderonce called not just the future of the Air Force’saviation arm, but “the most sought-after capabili-ty in theater.” After completing the fundamentalscourse they will move on to Creech or Holloman

Air Force Base for further training and to Creech,Cannon AFB or Whiteman AFB to begin theiroperational careers.

One of the RIQ instructors, Chris, a former AirForce instructor pilot, described the course.

“We’re using T-6 simulators as training devices tointroduce them to instrument flying and contact fly-ing,” he said. “It’s similar to what all Air Force pilotsget. Students will have about 36 simulator hours and140 academic hours. We are doing the first four and ahalf months of pilot training in two and a half months.Minus formation flying, RIQ training is the same train-ing that every Air Force pilot gets.”

Captain Michael said the course proceeds at afaster pace than traditional pilot training becausethey “don’t have to deal with weather and aircraftmaintenance issues.”

Chris said the RIQ course is not static.“We’ve gotten feedback from students and

instructors,” he said. “It’s an evolving course tomeet the needs of our customers.”

Chris estimated 10 classes will take the RIQcourse each year.

Active duty and civilian istructors will help studentsmaster their objectives, Chris said.

“Pilots have to know a lot,” he said.“They’re responsible for the actions oftheir crew members.”

Captain Mike said students can counton 12-hour days.

“That doesn’t even include studytime,” he said. “Most have not had this

type of intensity before. It’s a lot ofinformation. It’s completely different from

what they’ve done before.”Two students, 2nd Lts. Joel and Bill, look

forward to the challenges of the RIQ course andbecoming RPA pilots.

“This sounded like a dream job,” saidLieutenant Joel, an Air Force Academy graduate.“It’s exactly what I wanted to do.”

Lieutenant Bill, who completed a university ROTCprogram in Massachusetts, said he did not meetvision requirements to become a traditional pilot,but found the perfect fit for him after all.

“This is definitely what I wanted,” he said. “Learningabout it has made me want to do it even more. I want-ed to be part of the fight.”

Both students acknowledged the RIQ course isdemanding.

Lieutenant Joel said he expects simulatortraining to be more difficult than “flying anactual aircraft.”

“You need thick skin because it’s military training,”Lieutenant Bill said. “They expect a lot from you.”

Students in the RIQ course are now studying atthe 559th Flying Training Squadron, while enlist-ed Airmen are taking BSOC classes in temporarybuildings near Air Education and TrainingCommand headquarters. They will soon join stu-dents in the RPA Fundamentals Course at the for-mer home of the 563rd FTS, which is being refur-bished following the inactivation of the 563rd, foranother new chapter in the fledgling training pro-gram’s history.

“It’s a great thing to be on the leading edge of the AirForce,” Chris said. “It’s made phenomenal strides afterit was stood up as a beta.”

RPA training begins new chapter with infusion of youngest students“This is our first class from the commissioning sources,the Air Force Academy and ROTC. They applied for thiscareer field; they placed it on their dream sheets. It’s a

parallel pipeline to established pilot training.”Capt. Michael

558th FTS RPA Instrument Qualification flight commander

WAVE OF THE FUTURE

MQ-1 Predator

9 a.m. - Step11 a.m. - Step11:15 a.m. - Cycling5 p.m. - Step5:15 p.m. - Cycling6 p.m. - Yoga7:15 p.m. - Kick Boxing

9 a.m. - Yoga10 a.m. - Senior Strength 11 a.m. - Step5 p.m. - Zumba5:15 p.m. - Cycling6 p.m. - Kick Boxing

9 a.m. - Step11 a.m. - Step11:15 a.m. - Cycling4 p.m. - Power Yoga5 p.m. - Zumba5:15 p.m. - Cycling6 p.m. - Pilates7:15 p.m. - Kick Boxing

9 a.m. - Step/Weights9 a.m. - Yoga10 a.m. - Senior Strength11 a.m. - Step5 p.m. - Zumba6 p.m. - Kick Boxing

9 a.m. - Step10:15 a.m. - Cardiofusion11:15 a.m. - Cycling5:30 p.m. - Yoga

9 a.m. - Kick Boxing9 a.m. - Pilates10:15 a.m. - Zumba

SUNDAYS1 p.m. - Yoga

MONDAYS TUESDAYS WEDNESDAYS THURSDAYS FRIDAYS SATURDAYS

Rambler Fitness Center group exercise class schedule for January

$3 per class. For details on class passes or holiday class schedules, call the Rambler Fitness Center at 652-2955.Equipment orientation available upon request for all patrons.

SPORTS – HEALTH – FITNESS

Course renovationsThe 10th hole at the

Randolph Oaks Golf Courseis closed during the monthof January to clean up con-centrations of lead andpolycyclic and polynucleararomatic hydrocarbons. Atemporary hole will beestablished for use duringthis time.

Twilight golf hoursThe Randolph Oaks Golf

Course offers the followingTwilight and Super Twilighthours and prices:• Twilight hours normallystart at 1 p.m.• Twilight Monday-Friday:$11 to walk and $20 to ride •Twilight weekends andholidays: $12 to walk and$21 to ride•Super Twilight Monday-Friday: start at 5 p.m. with$6 to walk and $12 to ride

Driving rangeThe Randolph Oaks Golf

Course driving range isclosed Monday morningsfor maintenance.

Golfers can buy a fullbasket of balls for only $6or a half basket for $3.

SportsBRIEFS

By Brian McGloin502nd Air Base Wing OL-B Public Affairs

As the temperature drops to below freezingfrom the sweltering summer sun, those whoexercise outside need to take precautions.

Kimberly Houk, Randolph Health andWellness Center exercise physiologist, said themost important things to remember in colderweather are hydration and layering.

“Proper hydration is important, but not justbefore or after, all day long,” she said. “Wateris the best means of hydration.”

Dehydration is something one needs to con-sider in cooler temperatures in addition towarmer summer months.

“You need to stay well hydrated whenexercising in cold weather just as you dowhen exercising in warm weather,” theMayo Clinic suggests. “You can becomejust as dehydrated in the cold as in theheat from sweating, breathing andincreased urine production, but it may beharder to notice during cold weather.”

Another very important consideration incool weather – whether being physically activeor relaxing – is how one is dressed. It’s impor-tant to dress properly for the weather for safe-ty and comfort.

Ms. Houk said the best way to dress is in lay-ers. The fabrics closest to the skin should bemoisture-wicking and non-absorbing to keepthe skin as dry as possible. Cotton and absorb-ing fabrics should be avoided. The way mostinsulation works is by trapping warm air nextto the skin. If the area is wet, then body heathas a quick escape route.

Certain types of silk, modern wool and poly-ester fabrics and various blends offer excellentmoisture-wicking properties, which feel warmand comfortable against the skin.

Over the moisture-wicking or base layer, oneshould wear an insulating layer, or mid layer,

appropriate for the conditions and activity. Theinsulating layer can be modern wool, fleecelike the extended cold weather clothing systemservicemembers are issued or other similarcommercially available clothing.

Depending on the conditions, this may beenough. But, if it’s raining or windy, then alight windbreaker or waterproof jacket keepsthe wearer warm and dry.

“As you warm up, you can take them off butyou need to put them back on as you cooldown,” Ms. Houk said about mid and upperlayers of clothing.

The jacket and pants of the improvedphysical training uniform issued to Airmenare designed for cold and wet weathertraining. Sometimes, simply adding a baselayer under the IPTU shirt or shorts makesa world of difference.

In very cold weather, one should keepextremities covered to prevent frostbite andhelp the body maintain temperature.

“It is very important to cover extremitiessuch as your head with a hat or scarf andhands with gloves or mittens,” Ms. Houk said.

The Mayo Clinic suggests wearing ascarf to keep the face covered and towarm air before inhaling. A scarf or headband can also be used to cover ears.

“It’s wise to check the weather forecast,”Ms. Houk said.

“Data from the National Safety Council sug-gests little danger to individuals with properlyclothed skin exposed at 20 degreesFahrenheit, even with a 30-mile-per-hourwind,” said cold weather guidelines from theAmerican Council on Exercise. “A danger doesexist for individuals with exposed skin whenthe wind chill factor (combined effect of tem-perature and wind) falls below minus 20degrees Fahrenheit. That can be achieved byany combination of temperatures below 20degrees Fahrenheit with a wind of 40 miles

per hour and temperatures below minus 20degrees Fahrenheit with no wind.”

Ms. Houk said it’s important to warm upbefore physical exertion as well as coolingdown after.

“When finished with an activity, it’s impor-tant to cool down or slow down before youstop completely,” she said. “If you’re a begin-ner or seasoned, it’s important to graduallyincrease your program. Never add more than10 percent to your current program.”

“In South Texas we’re sheltered from thecold – we’re cold when it’s 50 degrees,”she said. “People have different tolerancesfor heat and cold.”

Fitness center offers cold-weather workouts

Photo by Dave TerrySenior Airman Jennifer Stafford, Air ForcePersonnel Center, makes use of the RamblerFitness Center’s indoor running track duringrecent cold weather.

WINGSPREADPAGE 10 JANUARY 21, 2011

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902nd Force Support Squadron Briefs