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167TH AIRLIFT WING MARCH 2021
Next UTA 10-11 APRIL 2021PLANE TALK
PLANE TALK is an authorized Air Force publication for the
members of the 167th Airlift Wing, West Virginia Air National Guard. Contents of PLANE TALK are not
necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by the U.S. Government,
Department of Defense, or the Department of the Air Force.
The editorial content is prepared, edited and provided by the Public Affairs Office, 167th AW, WVANG,
Martinsburg, WV 25405-0204. Email comments to:
Col. Marty Timko Wing Commander
Capt. Stacy Gault Public Affairs Officer
Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle Public Affairs Superintendent
Staff Sgt. Timothy Sencindiver PA Specialist
Staff Sgt. Mallory Coleman PA Specialist
Senior Airman Edward Michon PA Specialist
Senior Airman Steven Sechler PA Specialist
The 167th Airlift Wing Public Affairs Office is always looking for story ideas and original content. PLEASE SEND ALL PLANE TALK SUBMISSIONS, INCLUDING STORIES, COLUMNS, AND PHOTOS TO:[email protected]
2MOUNTAINEER PRIDE WORLDWIDE
Command Comments ..................................................................................................3
167th and 175th demonstrate ACE concept in training exercise..............................4
Logan Young honored in memorial service..................................................................5
West Virginia Air National Guard welcomes new commander.................................6
Wing recognizes Outstanding Airmen of the Year.......................................................7
Airman Spotlight, A1C Pujaba Chudasama..................................................................8
Air National Guard and West Virginia National Guard leadership visits wing...........9
Vaccinations and Deployment Processing photos....................................................10
Personal Finanical Counselor, Improving Your Credit Score......................................11
Emergency Management Hazard Highlight...............................................................12
Safe and Secure..............................................................................................................13
Observance, Women’s History Month..........................................................................14
Combating Trafficking in Persons, Sexual Assualt Prevention and Response .........15
Accolades.......................................................................................................................16
ON THE COVERA West Virginia National Guard 35th Civil Support Team vehicle is loaded onto a C-17 Globemaster III aircraft at the 167th Airlift Wing, Shepherd Field, Martinsburg, West Virginia, March 4, 2021, as part of a joint training exercise between the 35th CST, the 167th Logistics Readiness Squadron and the 167th Airlift Squadron. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
IN THIS ISSUE
ON THE BACK COVERAir transportation personnel with the 167th Logistics Readiness Squadron test their Deployable Automated Cargo Measurement System, DACMS, at the 167th Airlift Wing, Shepherd Field, Martinsburg, West Virginia, March, 3, 2021. The DACMS weighs rolling stock and pallets, uses a laser system to determine axle weights and center of balance, and can print or send the data as needed. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
COMMAND COMMENTS
Mighty Airlift Wing!I begin by quoting Brigadier General Crane: “Please pass along my appreciation, and honestly,
total awe of what your team does every day for our great One Guard Family – I was truly impressed by every section. It was a great visit and I and Command Sergeant Major Jones look forward to visiting again.”
I could not be more proud of the efforts throughout this wing in demonstrating to TAG and his SEL the tremendous place Martinsburg is and the people of Team 167th truly are. From a beautiful and touching ceremony honoring SSgt Logan Young, to celebrating our Outstanding Airmen of the Year, to a rousing send-off for Brigadier General Walker while welcoming Brigadier General Shepard as the new AAG-Air: the wing definitely shined! With the packed schedule that TAG participated in over the weekend, his favorite opportunities were meeting wing members and having a chat – he is commit-ted to getting to know the wing mission and its people and is targeting quarterly visits over the year.
In the midst of all of the visiting by TAG and the events, Out-processing was being knocked-out for our RCP Deployers while the standard training events and requirements were dutifully getting accom-plished. Additionally, we were able to accomplish another solid wave of COVID-19 vaccinations for members and their spouses (including mine!) Our diligence, practices, and now the vaccination are all providing a way forward to the more “normal” UTA construct. I still intend to have April UTA under that construct while conducting training smartly in a group setting – hoping for nice weather that will enable us to get outside. The wing leadership will work towards this goal with the objective to get some of our latent training accomplished.
Going along with our “Inspection Year” reality, we had yet another visitor to UTA this weekend: Col Kevin Michael, the new WV State Inspector General came to meet wing leadership and go out and about seeing the wing. From our elite 167 AW/IG Team to interacting with various airman to learn more about the wing mission, Col Michael was very impressed and is pleased to be part of the WV IG Team. We will be seeing more of Col Michael as the year progresses, leading up to our AMC Capstone Event in August.
Finally, be sure each of our deploying members have an identified “go-to” squadron-mate to depend on, who is staying back here at Martinsburg while they are away. It always seems that once we deploy, that is the time when our car, or hot water tank, or something else decides to break down and cause worry for our members and their significant others. Keep up the communication, even while deployed with your fellow 167th members who can lend a hand and help make the deploy-ment seem a little bit shorter. I know our 167th members who are deploying will carry the Martinsburg banner high and show the rest of the force the elite personnel that makes the 167 AW what it is.
Spring is less than two weeks away bringing Easter with April and UTA: until then, stay healthy, stay safe, and above all: STAY MIGHTY!
--Marty
Command Chief Master Sgt. Troy Brawner167AW WING COMMAND CHIEF
VisionThe Premier Airlift Wing
Mission Ready, Committed to Airmen and Community, and Dedicated to Continuous Improvement
Col. Martin Timko167AW WING COMMANDER
Team,Wow, it was a drill weekend full of activity. First, I want to share with you that the 167th AW collected a total of
$3,012 to be donated to the WVNG Foundation. This was done over just 2 days of drill! This foundation is near and dear to both Col Timko and myself. This fund can be used when WVNG members are faced with difficult times. It has helped our members on numerous occasions. My sincere thank you to every one of you that contributed to this fund. I can’t tell you how excited and proud I was to issue a check to the foundation.
As you know we were afforded the opportunity to host our new TAG, Brigadier General William Crane and our Se-nior Enlisted Advisor, CSM Dusty Jones along with our new ATAG, Brigadier General Ray Sheppard and State CCM Dave Stevens for a couple of days. I could not be prouder of our Wing. They got to meet many of you during their time with us. It was exciting to listen and watch as they made their way throughout the different shops over the weekend. If they weren’t already assured, I think they went away with confirmation that the 167th AW is capable and willing to take on any mission or task that comes their way. Thank you for always making our visitors feel welcome.
If you recall last month, we announced our four 167th AW Outstanding Airman of the Year recipients for 2021. This month we congratulate both A1C Chudasama (Airman Category) and SMSgt Charlie Moore (SNCO Category) for be-ing selected as our state winners in their respective categories. In addition, we congratulate A1C Chudasama as the BG James K. McLaughlin Trophy recipient for 2021. If you see them throughout the base, please congratulate them on their accomplishments. Job well done!
Our RCP rotation is kicking into high gear. I ask each of you to be laser focused on making sure all the details are taken care of so that our members can be successful in the months ahead. Let’s minimize their stress as best we can. We want this to be an exciting time for them. Thank you to each of you for your part in getting our folks ready to go out the door. Please don’t let up. Let’s continue to keep the focus and support for them and their families as they approach their new roles in the months ahead.
I received my second dose of the COVID-19 vaccine over drill. It was good to see a steady line of members getting their first or second dose as well. I understand the hesitation of some of you regarding whether it is the right time for you to receive the vaccine. I too had those concerns until speaking with our medical professionals on base. If you have questions, I recommend you talk with Chief Darby and her staff in the Med Group. They have a lot of information and are more than willing to discuss the vaccine along with answering any questions you might have.
Finally, as we get back to some normalcy in both our personal and professional lives it is a good time for each of you to take a focused inventory of where you are in your career vs where you want to be in the next 3-5 years. I recommend you ask yourself the tough questions. Are you doing all that you can at the present time to put yourself in a position to be where you want to be in the coming years? Competition is tough. Where are you with PME? Are you working to-ward a degree? Are you taking on more challenges in your organizations? Are you involved in your councils and base activities? Your leadership should always be doing their best to assist you in your career. But make no mistake about it, it is your career. You should be the main driver as no one cares more about it than you. Be proactive and put your plan in writing. Talk with your supervisor often about where you want to take your career and then get after it.
As exhausting as drill can be, I am always looking forward to seeing you at the very next one. April drill is right around the corner. Let’s get ready to make it great one. Have a great month!
Your Chief,Chief Brawner
167th and 175th demonstrate ACE concept in training exerciseThe 167th Airlift Wing recently teamed up with the 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, to conduct their first agile combat employment exercise Feb. 17.During the single-day exercise, cargo and Airmen were transported via a C-17 Globemaster III from Warfield Air National Guard Base at Martin State Airport, Baltimore, Md.,
to Martinsburg, W.Va. Two A-10C Thunderbolt II aircraft joined the equipment and personnel to mimic operations from a forward location. Capt. Trebor Taylor, C-17 pilot and exercise planner said the primary goal was to help another unit. The objective was to transport their cargo and personnel to Martinsburg,
set up their equipment and operate out of this location, simulating an austere environment, and the exercise accomplished that. “The unit is fully deployed forward and you’re able to take a chunk of your organic elements and move them elsewhere and be able to operate at both places,” he said.
“So essentially, you’re doing more with less.” A forecasted snowstorm forced participants to shorten the exercise from two days to one, but Taylor said it created a secondary element to the training, requiring the
movement of cargo and people quicker, efficiently, and safely. The ACE exercise also provided unique training opportunities to the C-17 aircrew and aerial port specialists, requiring them to work with equipment specifically for the A-10.
During the exercise Airmen moved 44,000 pounds of cargo, including MJ-1B/C Bomblifts, GF-7/E Ammo Loading Systems, and MHU-141 Bomb Trailers.“It’s beneficial for everybody, not only the guys requesting it, but our guys are getting something out of it, too,” Taylor said.
Story and photo by Capt. Stacy Gault
Two A-10 Thunderbolt II aircraft from the 104th Fighter Squadron of the 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard, and a C-17 Globe-master III with the 167th Airlift Squadron, 167th Airlift IWng, West Virginia Air National Guard, taxi to the runway at Shepherd Field, Martinsburg, West Virginia, Feb. 17, 2021, as part of an exercise to demonstrate Agile Combat Employment (ACE) capabilities. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Capt. Stacy Gault)
Logan Young honored in memorial serviceA memorial service to honor fallen 167th Airlift Wing firefighter, Logan Young, was held in an aircraft hangar at
the 167th Airlift Wing, March 6. Young, 30, was killed Dec. 27, while battling an off-base barn fire. The arson fire remains under investigation. The memorial service paid military tributes to Young, who was posthumously promoted to the rank of staff ser-
geant. A funeral service steeped in firefighter tradition was held for Young in Winchester, Va., Jan. 7.“Logan volunteered to stand watch, allow for this wing to conduct its worldwide mobility mission, and without
hesitation, rush into harm’s way to aid the surrounding community,” Col. Martin Timko, 167th Airlift Wing command-er, said. “There is no greater tribute to Logan than the acknowledgement that he laid down his life for his fellow man, the ultimate epitome of service before self.”
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brandon Spears said Young was “an amazing young man who represented the mean-ing of ‘love life’.”
Spears was stationed with Young at Kadena Air Base, Japan, and later at Andrews Air Force Base, Maryland, both men serving in security forces.
“Anybody that knew Logan loved Logan,” Spears said. “If you saw your name posted on the duty roster with him you knew that Logan would make the shift fun some way, somehow.
Spears talked about Young’s grit, his thoughtfulness and his humor. “You needed people like Logan in your life to get through those hard days,” he said. Young was posthumously presented the Meritorious Service Medal and the West Virginia Meritorious Service
Medal. The 167th Fire Department presented the Young’s family with several memorial donations including a shad-ow box, three helmet plaques and wood carved fire protections shields. Teddy bears made from Young’s uniform were presented to his fiancée and her daughter.
Rich Peatro, commander of Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 2123, presented the VFW Firefighter of the Year award to Young’s family.
The base honor guard concluded the service with the folding and presentation of the American flag, the firing of three volleys and playing of taps.
by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle
Top left: U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brandon Spears delivers a eulogy for Staff Sgt. Logan Young during a memorial service held at the 167th Airlift Wing, Shepherd Field, Martinsburg, West Virginia, March 6, 2021. Spears and Logan and become friends while serving together at two different active duty stations. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
Middle: U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Chris Taylor, chief of the 167th fire de-partment presents London Brown with two teddy bears made from Staff Sgt. Logan Young’s uniform during a memorial service held at the 167th Airlift Wing, Shepherd Field, Martinsburg, West Virginia, March 6, 2021. Brown was engaged to Young who died while fighting a fire in December. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Dey-erle)
Bottom left: 167th Airlift Wing base honor guard members, Master Sgt. Jus-tin Bird and Tech. Sgt. Travis Hall perform a flag folding during a memorial service held at the 167th Airlift Wing, Shepherd Field, Martinsburg, West Virginia, March 6, 2021. Three American flags were presented to Young’s family during the service. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
6MOUNTAINEER PRIDE WORLDWIDE
West Virginia Air National Guard welcomes new commander
The West Virginia Air National Guard welcomed its new commander during a change of command ceremony at the 167th Airlift Wing, Martinsburg, W.Va., March 7.
Brig. Gen. Christopher Walker relinquished command of the states two flying wings and 2,100 members to Brig. Gen. Ray Shepard during the ceremony presided over by Brig. Gen. William Crane, the Adjutant General for the West Virginia National Guard.
Crane explained to the audience, many of whom were viewing a live stream of the ceremony due to COVID-19 limita-tions, that Walker was selected to serve as a special assistant to the Director of the Air National Guard, leading diversity and inclusion at the National Guard Bureau.
“I look forward to continue working with you on that endeavor and I really appreciate you taking that responsibility,” Crane said. “It’s a big deal to me. I think we can’t be the ‘One Guard’ family that I want us to be without having everybody raised up in the organization.”
Walker, who served as the Assistant Adjutant General- Air for West Virginia for two years said, “It has been a tremendous honor and a tremendous privilege to lead this organization and I’m not disappearing into the ether. I am always going to be here for you.”
Walker encouraged the WVANG to carry on the sense of family and create a sense of belonging for all Airmen.“Show them how to become Air Force warriors and how to be members of the West Virginia Air National Guard,” he
said. Shepard joined the WVANG in 1999 and served as a Judge Advocate for the 167th AW and then as the State Judge
Advocate. Prior to taking command of the WVANG he served as the deputy commander and Chief of Staff for the WVANG.“I started my career as a Senior Airman in 1985, never would’ve thought I would be standing on this stage, ever. But, the
West Virginia Air National Guard is my family and I’m proud to be its commander,” Shepard said, adding, “I promise I’ll do the best I can and lead with integrity.”
by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle
U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Christopher Walker, outgoing Assistant Adjutant General- Air for West Virginia National Guard makes remarks before relinquishing command to Brig. Gen. Ray Shepard during a change of command ceremony held at the 167th Airlift Wing, Shepherd Field, Mar-tinsburg, West Virginia, March 7, 2021. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
U.S. Army Brig. Gen. William Crane, the Adjutant General for the West Virginia National Guard, passes the flag representing the 2,100 members of the West Virginia Air National Guard to U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Ray Shepard during a change of command ceremony held at the 167th Airlift Wing, Shepherd Field, Martinsburg, West Virginia, March 7, 2021. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
Wing recognizes Outstanding Airmen of the YearA ceremony to honor the 167th Airlift Wing’s four Outstanding Airmen of the Year was held in the base auditorium,
March 7. Airman 1st Class Pujaba Chudasama, Staff Sgt. William Wagstaff, Senior Master Sgt. Charles Moore and Master Sgt.
James Keller, were recognized in the Airman, Non-Commissioned Officer, Senior Non-Commissioned Officer, and First Sergeant categories, respectively.
The annual Outstanding Airman of the Year awards program seeks to recognize Airmen based on superior lead-ership, job performance and personal achievements. Each group within the wing selects Airmen to compete at the wing level and the wing winners then compete at the state level.
Chudasama, a maintenance management analyst for the 167th Maintenance Operations Flight, was also select-ed as the West Virginia Air National Guard’s Outstanding Airman of the year and the recipient of the James Kemp McClaughlin trophy, annually presented to the top Airman in the state. Chudasama is studying biology at Shepherd University. She has volunteered her time at a school in India, at the Martinsburg VA Medical Center and for the Red Cross. As a maintenance management analyst, she reviewed 488 maintenance records contributing to an overall 95% data integrity rate.
Wagstaff, an all-source intelligence analyst for the 167th Operations Support Squadron, recently graduated from West Virginia University with a Bachelor of Science in economics, minoring in statistics and data analytics. He served 45 days with the West Virginia National Guard’s Sustainment Task Force during the COVID-19 pandemic forecasting and tracking personal protective equipment requirements throughout the state.
Moore, an assistant operations officer and aircrew training non-commissioned officer for the 167th Operations Sup-port Squadron, was selected as the senior non-commissioned officer for the wing and also took honors for senior NCO category at the state level. He planned the wing’s last super drill, led the first West Virginia Air National Guard virtual unit training assembly for the 167th OSS, and developed a new work schedule for his squadron to keep more than 150 aircrew mission ready during the pandemic.
Keller is the First Sergeant for the 167th Security Forces Squadron. He is credited with providing direct assistance to an Airman during a life crisis and maintaining active communication with more than 70 members of his squadron. Keller has volunteered with the Martinsburg STARBASE and the Berkeley County Backpack program.
Col. Marty Timko, 167th Airlift Wing commander, encouraged the Airmen to start mentoring Airmen to take their places on the stage next year.
“I am very proud of the four of you,” said Col. Marty Timko, 167th Airlift Wing commander. “Don’t let up. The bar has been set and I know the four of you have set a very high one and that now becomes the new standard going forward.”
by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle
Above: U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Ray Shepard, the Assistant Adjutant General- Air for West Virginia, left, and Command Chief Master Sgt. David Stevens, West Virginia Air Nation-al Guard Command Chief, right, present Airman 1st Class Pujaba Chudasama, with the James Kemp McClaughlin trophy during the 167th Airlift Wing’s Outstanding Airman of the Year ceremony March 7, 2021. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
Below: U.S. Air Force Col. Martin Timko, commander, 167th Airlift Wing, makes remarks during the wing’s OutstandBelow: ing Airman of the Year ceremony, as Command Chief Master Sgt. Troy Brawner, wing command chief, standing, Airman 1st Class Pujaba Chu-dasama, Staff Sgt. William Wagstaff, Senior Master Sgt. Charles Moore and Master Sgt. James Keller look on, March 7, 2021. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
Airman
Airman 1st Class Pujaba Chudasama is a maintenance management analyst for the 167th Maintenance Operation Flight and the 167th Airlift Wing’s Airman Spotlight for March 2021.
“A1C Chudasama, is what any supervisor would look for in a new Airman,” said Chudasa-ma’s supervisor, Master Sgt. Crystal Gochenour. “She’s extremely intelligent, more than willing to learn new things, and has the perfect personality to work with maintainers. She came to [our shop] seemingly a very quiet and shy individual, but as we got to know her we realized that she’s observing and taking note of everyone that comes through the door so that she can bet-ter serve their analysis needs.”
Chudasama was also selected as the 167th Airlift Wing’s Airman of the Year and the West Virginia Air National Guard’s Airman of the Year. Additionally, she was awarded the James Kemp McLaughlin trophy, presented to West Virginia’s top airman each year.
How long have you served in the unit: 2 ½ yearsMy job here is important because: My job requires me to collect, monitor, and analyze
maintenance data. I use statistical techniques, interpret finding, and identify trends and devi-ations, and recommend corrective action.
Civilian job: I am a student at Shepherd University.Education: I have my high school diploma and continuing school to obtain a bachelor
degree in General Biology. Hobbies: I love to travel and go hiking. Goals (military or civilian): I would like to graduate from WVU Medical School and become
a psychiatrist. I am proudest of: My ability to bounce back and adapt when life throws a curveball. People may be surprised to know this about me: I can speak three languages. The most exciting thing I’ve done in the military is: I was able to work through a pandemic
and adapt to a different style of work. The most valuable lesson I’ve learned throughout my career: Hold on to your motivation
and ambition. You will see all kinds of opportunities for improvement or success and that am-bition will help you grab them.
My advice to the newest Airmen in the Wing: Trust your chain of command and do not hes-itate to ask for help. The base is filled with wingmen to depend on and you will thrive.
8MOUNTAINEER PRIDE WORLDWIDE
Name:
Airman 1st Class Pujaba ChudasamaHometown:
Martinsburg, W.Va.Job Title:
Maintenance Management Analysis
ANG Director visits 167th Airlift Wing WVNG adjutant general, state leadership spend weekend with 167th Airlift Wing Airmen
Above: Sherra Triggs, left, director of STARBASE Mar-tinsburg, demonstrates an augmented reality sand-box to U.S. Air Force Lt. Gen. Michael A. Loh, director, Air National Guard, and his wife Diane Loh, during their visit to the 167th Airlift Wing West Virginia Nation-al Guard, at Shepherd Field Air National Guard Base in Martinsburg, West Virginia, March 9, 2021. During his visit, Loh received updates on the unit’s current oper-ations and response to the COVID-19 pandemic. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
Right: U.S. Air Force Col. Chris Sigler, commander, 167th Operations Group, 167th Airlift Wing, West Vir-ginia National Guard, briefs Lt. Gen. Michael A. Loh, di-rector, Air National Guard, on recent airlift operations at Shepherd Field Air Na-tional Guard Base in Mar-tinsburg, West Viriginia., March 9, 2021. (U.S. Air Na-tional Guard photo by Se-nior Master Sgt. Emily Beigh-tol-Deyerle)
U.S. Army Command Sergeant Ma-jor James Jones, Senior Enlisted Advi-sor, West Virginia National Guard, U.S. Army Brig. Gen. William Crane, The Ad-jutant General, West Virginia National Guard, and U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Ray Shepard, Assistant Adjutant Gen-eral – Air, West Virginia National Guard, had lunch with 167th Airlift Wing Airmen who have been serving on the WVNG’s COVID-19 joint task forces, during their visit to the Martinsburg, West Virginia wing March 6, 2021. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by SrA Steven Sechler)
U.S. Air Force Senior Airman Danielle Trucks, second from right, talks with West Virginia National Guard leader-ship in the 167th Medical Group clin-ic, March 6, 2021. U.S. Army Brig. Gen. William Crane, The Adjutant General, West Virginia National Guard, right, along with U.S. Air Force Col. Kevin Ray, director of staff, West Virginia Air Na-tional Guard, left, U.S. Army Command Sergeant Major James Jones, Senior Enlisted Advisor, West Virginia Nation-al Guard, and U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Ray Shepard, Assistant Adjutant Gener-al – Air, West Virginia National Guard, visited the 167th Airlift Wing over the March unit training assembly, attend-ing various events and talking with Air-men around the wing. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Airman Steven Sechler)
U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jonathen Guzik, right, explains equipment in the 167th Airlift Wing’s fabrication shop to U.S. Army Brig. Gen. William Crane, The Ad-jutant General, West Virginia National Guard, March 6, 2021. Crane and other West Virginia National Guard leaders spent the March unit training assembly at the 167th Airlift Wing, Shepherd Field, Martinsburg, West Virginia. (U.S. Air Na-tional Guard photo by Senior Airman Steven Sechler
10MOUNTAINEER PRIDE WORLDWIDE
Task Force Medical - East gives vaccine over UTA
167th Airlift Wing Airmen, slated to deploy this spring, receive and inventory their equipment in the mobility storage area at the 167th Airlift Wing, March 6, 2021. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
167th Medical Group Airman, Tech. Sgt. Rachel Orndorff-Shawyer, currently working with the West Virginia National Guard’s Task Force Medical – East, administers Pfizer COVID-19 vaccinations to Airmen in the 167th Airlift Wing dining facility, March 6, 2021. The task force administered nearly 300 vaccines to Army and Air National Guardsmen and civilians, March 5-7. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Senior Master Sgt. Emily Beightol-Deyerle)
Airmen issued equipment for upcoming deployments
11MOUNTAINEER PRIDE WORLDWIDE
PERSONAL FINANCIAL COUNSELOR
As financial counselors we often get asked how a client can improve a credit score. Most of us aren’t privy to the complete su-per-secret formula, including me. But there are actions you can take to improve your credit score. Scoring models differ and can change a bit over time and we are focusing on the most common score, the FICO score. But here are 5 solid tips.
• The most obvious is to pay your bills on time. Payment history is about 35% of the weighting for the credit score. If you have old outstanding debt-the kind that is lingering, perhaps in collections – then coming up with a plan and addressing them can make a big impact as well.
• Keep the balances of revolving accounts (like credit cards) well below the limit. The amounts owed weigh in at about 30% of the score. So generally you want to always keep the balance on an individual card less than 30% of the limit. I usually tell clients less than 25%. The same is true for the overall credit limit for all the revolving accounts combined. So 25% below each card limit and 25% below the total available credit limit. If you really want to make sure you are maximizing your score, perhaps when buying a home, you may want to consider keeping it even lower. Note that this does NOT mean you should keep a balance. It is generally better to fully pay off the statement balance each cycle and avoid paying interest. It does NOT hurt your score to pay off revolving accounts every month.
• Keep an account or two for a long time. Length of credit history weighs in at about 15%. How long ago you opened accounts and how recent any activity may be. Sometimes closing accounts is the right answer if you need to do that to control spending. But if you can keep your oldest credit card or two that can be beneficial to your score. Even if you have a long history with other accounts, closing an account can cause a short term drop in the score. Also, if you have cards you don’t typically use, you may want to consider using them occasionally. Even just a couple of times a year can be help this calculation. Just make sure you don’t forget to pay it off.
• Don’t ask for any credit or debt. New credit weighs in at about 10%. So whenever your credit report and score are checked for getting new credit or debt it causes what is usually referred to as a hard hit or hard inquiry. This causes a small dip in your score. It often typically recovers in a few months. I usually tell clients to assume 6 months, although it depends on all the factors. One of those is if you actually take on more credit or debt, therefore impacting tip #2. Opening multiple new accounts in a short period of time can be particularly detrimental to the score.
• Check your credit report relatively frequently. There are quite a few ways to do this today, often for free from companies that want to sell you some-thing else. As long as you are not overly susceptible to their marketing, their websites can often provide useful information. I am not talking just about the score, but the report that shows what is actually being considered to develop your score. Please note that many sources for a free credit score use the Vantage score or another scoring system rather than FICO. There are typically some differences in the scores. FICO is the most commonly one looked at by lenders. The government recommended site is annualcreditreport.com. You can get a free report from each of the big 3 credit bureaus once a year, every 365 days. One way to approach this is to check a different bureau every 4 months. You will NOT get a free credit score this way. Look over these reports carefully to find errors and then take action to correct them as needed.
These tips can help you maximize your score. If they don’t seem to be working, then you may want to consult a financial counselor or coach to help you look over your particular situation. One thing to remember is that taking on more credit or taking on debt just to improve your credit score is often an unwise move. If you keep these tips in mind and follow a relatively normal progression in your life then the high credit score can just develop. I was going to say develop naturally, but there is nothing natural about it.
If it is financial, the Personal Financial Counselor can assist. Jerry Zeigler, AFC®[email protected]
by Jerry Zeigler, AFC, 167th Airlift Wing Personal Financial Counselor
Improving your credit score
Jerry Zeigler, AFC Personal Financial Counselor
Be Ready Newsletter Mar. 2021
ARE YOU READY…? Hazard Highlight
What is a Thunderstorm?
A thunderstorm is formed by a combina-tion of moisture, rapidly rising warm air, and a force capable of lifting the warm air. Typically these forces are warm or cold fronts, sea breeze, or air forced over mountains.
Thunderstorm Facts
-Thunderstorms can occur singularly, in clusters, or in lines.
-Thunderstorms are classified severe if the produce hail at least ¾ of an inch in diame-ter, have winds of at least 58 mph, or if they produce a tornado.
-All thunderstorms produce lightning.
Know the Terms
Severe Thunderstorm Watch- Severe thunderstorms are possible in and near the watch area. Stay informed and be ready to act if a severe thunderstorm warning is issued.
Severe Thunderstorm Warning- Severe weather has been reported by spotters or indicated by radar. Warnings indicate danger to life and property.
What is a Tornado?
A tornado is a violent windstorm charac-terized by a twisting, funnel-shaped cloud. It is spawned by a thunderstorm (or sometimes a hurricane).
Why Should I Prepare? Everyone should have a plan.
Disasters come in many forms: explosions, hurricanes, tornadoes, and others. Being prepared can reduce fear, anxiety, and losses that accompany these disasters. Individuals, families, and com-munities should know what to do in the event of an emergency. Knowing what to expect and how to prepare makes any crisis more manageable.
Start Preparing Today
Take these three simple steps to prepare – Get a Kit, Make a Plan, Be Prepared.
Get a Kit – Assemble a collection of first aid supplies, food, water, medicines, and important papers that can sustain you and your family until the emergency passes.
Make a Plan – You and your family members may not be togeth-er when an emergency strikes. Planning ahead will improve your chances of keeping in touch, staying safe, and quickly reuniting.
Be Prepared – Anticipate emergencies most likely to affect you and your family but prepare yourself and your family for all haz-ards.
Thunderstorms can ne identified by their characteristic flat tops and overall anvil shapes.
Antiterrorism & Force Protection: Suspicious Personnelsubmitted by Lt. Col. Tim Rice, Wing Antiterrorism Officer
These Antiterrorism tips are on suspicious people and activity.
GENERAL SECURITY:- Instruct family and friends not to provide strangers with information about you or
your family.- Be alert to strangers who are on government property for no apparent reason. - Report all suspicious persons loitering near your residence or office; attempt to
provide a complete description of the person and/or vehicle to Security Forces.- Don’t open doors to strangers.- Report all threatening phone calls to security officials.
BE SUSPICIOUS:- Be alert to public works crews and, if overseas, other foreign nationals requesting
access to your residence; check their identities through a peep-hole before allowing entry.
- Be alert to peddlers and strangers.- Write down license numbers of suspicious vehicles; note descriptions of occu-
pants.- Treat with suspicion any inquiries about the whereabouts or activities of other
family members.- Report all suspicious activity to Military/Security Forces or local law enforcement.
REMEMBER: Antiterrorism and Force Protection is EVERYONE’S job.
These tips, and other important information are located in the CJCS Guide 5260, Service Member’s Personal Protection Guide: A Self-Help Handbook to Combating Terrorism, which can be found on the base intranet.
REMEMBER: Antiterrorism and Force Protection is EVERYONE’S job.The 167th Airlift Wing Antiterrorism Officer is Lt. Col. Tim Rice, 242-5084.
SAFE AND SECURE
13MOUNTAINEER PRIDE WORLDWIDE
Growing out of a California small-town school event in 1978, Women’s History Month honors and celebrates the struggles and achievements of women throughout American history.
In 1980, the president issued the first presidential proclamation declaring the week of March 8th as National Women’s History Week. The U.S. Congress followed suit the next year, passing a resolution establishing a national celebration.
In 1987, at the request of the National Women’s History Project (now called the National Women’s History Alliance), Congress expanded the week to a month. Congress has issued a resolution every year since.
During Women’s History Month the Department of Defense joins the nation in celebrating the vital role of women—not only in American history— but in our future.
The 2021 theme chosen by the National Women’s History Alliance is: Valiant Women of the Vote: Refusing to be Silenced.
The theme reminds us that participating in elections is one of the key freedoms of American life.
Many people in countries around the world do not have the same freedom, nor did many Americans in centuries past.
No matter what you believe or whom you support, it is important to exercise your rights.
“There never will be complete equality until women themselves help to make laws and elect lawmakers.” - Susan B. Anthony
167TH AW POC:MSgt Michael SeavoltCTIP Program Coordinator ext 5759
Sexual Assault Prevention & Response
West Virginia National Guard Sexual Assault Response Coordinator:
Jenny ColagrossoOffice: 304-561-6681; DSN: 623-6681
24 hour Blackberry: [email protected]
167th Airlift Wing Volunteer Victim Advocate:
Emily Beightol-DeyerleOffice: 304-616-5251; DSN: 242-5251; Cell: (304) 839-9157
24/7 Sexual Assault Support for DoD CommunityDoD Safe Helpline: Call: 877-995-5247Texting: (*55-247);
Texting outside the US: (202-470-5546)Online Resources: www.safehelpline.org
Online Chat: www.safehelpline.org
Have questions? Need Help? We’re here for you!
WelcomeA1C Jacqueline Thompson, AS
A1C Evan Roebuck, MXSA1C Cristyn Helmick, MDG
A1C Ryan Yates, MXSA1C Samuel Hardman, SFS
SSgt Matthew Spurgeon, CF
Welcome Back from Technical Training
Dane Labrie, AMXSElizabeth Casteel, FSS
Cody Eichelberger, SFSKyle McKay, SFS
16MOUNTAINEER PRIDE WORLDWIDE
PromotionsTo Airman
Savanna Anderson, MXSDallis Myers, MDG
To Senior AirmanDalton Trail, MXS
To Staff SergeantThomas Sherfey, MXSKaylee Barbour, OSS
Tyler Cole, ASIan King, LRS
David Landis,AS
ACCOLADESPromotions
To Technical SergeantCharles Higgins, LRSDonovan Mills, LRS
To Master SergeantGregory Barham, ASSophia Burnham, OSSLucinda Williams, FSS
To Senior Master SergeantJosh Michael, CES
The 167th Airlift Wing Inspector General is soliciting new Wing Inspection Team (WIT) members. Volunteers must be E-6 to E-8 and have commander endorsement. Com-plete the WIT nomination form on IG sharepoint page: https://cs2.eis.af.mil/sites/13837/HQ/IG/_layouts/15/start.aspx#/SitePages/Home.aspx and send to MSgt Garey Difenderfer or SMSgt Michael Bittinger.
Unit Effectiveness Inspection4-12 August 2021
3 Unit Training Assemblies
COUNTDOWN TO UEI
144 days
Promotions To Second Lieutenant
Samuel Price, ASConnor Cooney, AS
RetirementsTSgt Mark Rushing, AMXS
Tech. Sgt. Anthony Scolaro repairs the nose radome of a C-17 Globemaster aircraft Feb. 23, 2021 at the 167th Airlift Wing, Martinsburg, West Virginia. The damage was discovered during a routine inspection. Scolaro removed multiple plies of composites and honeycomb and rebuilt the damaged area within two days. (U.S. Air National Guard photo courtesy of Tech. Sgt. Matthew Meyercheck)
