LRAFB DropZone

CLASSIFIEDS >> 06-20-08

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 17:23:00 +0000

THE DROP ZONE CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to 404 Graham Rd., Jacksonville, AR 72078. You may also email them to dropzoneclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.

THRIFT SHOP open to the public. MWF, 10 am to 2 pm, first Saturday monthly. Great bargains. All revenues used to support mission. Volunteers and donations welcome. Jacksonville Care Channel, 201 Elm, 982-4647.

YARD SALES

NEIGHBORHOOD YARD Sale, June 20 & 21, 7-3, Turkey Trot & Oneida, Northlake Shubdivision. Lots of stuff.

GARAGE SALE: 7 am.-noon, Sat., 6/21, Yamaha Bear Tracker 4-wheeler, Broyhill couch & 2 La-z-boy wing back recliners, 31 West Oak, Cabot, near Hwy. 89 & 5 junction.

YARD SALE: 105 Nebraska Cir., Fri. & Sat., June 21 & 22. Baby clothes, newborn to 3T. 8 am til ?

YARD SALE: June 21, 7 am-? 200 Delaware Cir. on LRAFB. Lots of misc. items at great prices.

SERVICES

Need a break this summer? Call M&D Lawn Care today! Mow, trim, edge, hedge trimming & debris cleanup. Offer 10% Military & Senior discounts. (501) 628-7154

HORSES

HORSES: LUCKY Acres Boarding Stable, TLC for your horse, box stalls and paddocks, clean pastures, indoor and outdoor arenas, riding instruction and training program. Dressage our specialty. (501) 988-2458.*

PETS

2 FEMALE 1/2 Min. Pin., 1/2 Shih Tzu, 1 yr. old, free to good home, sisters, would prefer to keep together, but will separate if necessary. (501) 551-3835

Husky/Labrador mix puppies. Born March 10th. Cute, loving toward children. Vaccinations are up-to-date. Need a good home ASAP. (501) 681-0037, Thomas.

FREE YOUNG Corgi-mix female dog! A great family pet. Spayed, current shots, crate trained, housebroken. Pics available upon request. (501) 542-4151, Glenna.

FREE KITTENS and mother to good home, Cabot area. Call 628-1111 after 5 pm.

DWARF HAMSTERS, $5 obo. Tonya, (501) 658-2011.

FREE TO good home, German Shepherd, male, 1.5 yrs. old, great with kids. 366-6241

GREAT PYRENEES, needs a loving home, 3 yrs. old, loves people and gets along w/other animals. Loves to play, lay & melt your heart. For more info call Brandon @ (501) 743-6133 or Jacksonville Animal Shelter @ (501) 982-2916

FREE TO good home: SUPER TAILS the Kung Fu Kitten. Sweet 10 mo. old female kitten. PCSing overseas or would keep her. Very loving kitten. (501) 240-7365 to meet her.

FREE BLACK Lab to good home. Approx. 8 yrs. old. Great w/kids and other animals. Must find home asap. (501) 580-2601.

FURNITURE

BLACK GLASS top coffee table and two end tables, like new, $150. Rob, (501) 554-6465

BLACK LEATHER Sectional in good condition w/two rod-iron glass top end tables, $400 obo. (501)563-1703, Liz.

STEP 2 Fire engine toddler bed, good condition, $100. 983-0175

DINING TABLE w/six chairs. From Ashley's. Green, blue, & burgundy pattern fabric on chairs. $400 obo. Exc. Cond. (501) 224-1429

ENTERTAINMENT CENTER, 3-pcs., dark wood, good cond. Fits 36 in. TV. Approx. 7 ft. X 6 ft. New in '02, $300 obo. (501) 425-1628

FREE GREEN floral print hide-a-bed couch. Full size. You haul. (501) 256-3382.

LARGE LIGHT wood dining table, seats 8, includes 3 chairs, $100; Five foot light wood shelving unit, $25. (501) 255-5940.

OAK COMPUTER Armoire, $300. 2 bi-fold doors, 3 drawers (1 for files), pull-out tray, CPU storage, printer shelves, CD storage. 58" Tx48" Wx22" D. Great cond. Keeps computer, papers from view. 988-0255 or 786-9110 Herky@mindspring.com for pics.

COUCH, $400; Reclining love seat, $300; Queen-size bed, $400. 366-6241

KING BASE & frame, clean, less than 1 yr. old, memory foam pillow top, must sell, $350. Tony, 259-6748

Sealy Firm Queen Box Spring and Matt. in ex. cond., $125 set. (501) 882-5790 or (501) 281-2331

LIVING ROOM set, baby furniture, misc. items, PCSing, must sell. 258-3126, Katherine.

ELECTRIC OVEN, $400; Stainless steel sink, $. 258-1273

BUNKBED SET, washer & dryer, misc. items. PCSing, must sell. 983-0106. 139 Kansas Cir.

FULL-SIZE OAK headboard, footboard & side rails & full-size 1 yr. old pillow-top mattress and box springs, all for $150. 681-0832

WHIRLPOOL WASHER & electric dryer, less than 1 yr. old, 4-yr. extended warranty, $1,000 new, asking $650 obo. 987-6820 or 605-8023

LOST & FOUND

Found: Diamond and gold wedding ring at Cabot Middle School South parking lot, around the first of May. Call to describe. (501) 259-0592

WANTED

WANTED: TWIN boy clothing in sets, 6 mos. up to 4T. 247-8130

ITEMS FOR SALE

LARGE CAPACITY Washer & Dryer, Whirlpool, like new, $400 for both; High Top Black table and 4 chairs, $150. Rob, (501) 554-6465

Technics surround-sound (four tower speakers, fifty disc changer, receiver), $200; 5' light wood shelving unit, $25. (501) 554-5439

TOASTMASTER TOASTER Oven Broiler & Sunbeam Microwave Oven both White. $25 set. (501) 258-6057, Cynthia.

CRATE HALF stack 4x10 Cabinet, 100 watt amp. head trans. tube, good condition, $275. 681-0823

COUCH, Loveseat, all-wheel drive 2002 Kawasaki 4-Wheeler, queen-size bed, 2 wooden dressers, Playstation 2, John Deere Kid's Skater. (501) 366-6241.

SONY TV, KV-36FS16. 36 in., perfect cond., original box avail., $275 obo., no delivery. (501) 425-1628

26" MEN'S Huffy bicycle, 21 spd., helmet & 2 pairs of riding gloves, $80. 882-3219

PROFORM AIR Walker XT exerciser, $50. (501) 514-3489, Steve

BABY CLOTHES. Having Twin boys? I have a few preemie/newborn twin clothes to sell. Only will sell as a set., $25 for all. 247-8130

WEDDING DRESS: Beautiful Cinderella sleeveless wedding dress, size 10, $250. 247-8130

ROMAN SHADE, quality fabric, tan, 71" wide, custom made, fits LRAFB housing lg. window, $25. Cathy, 551-6944.

MUST GO! A/C Unit, $30. Used for 3 mos.; Queen Sealy mattress, box springs, & frame, $300. Less than a yr. old; Queen down comforter, $40; Uniflame Charcoal Grill & utensils, $50. (804) 402-0358

SCIENCE FICTION hardback books, from 70's -80's, $1 ea.; VHS Movies, family & action, 50 for $40. 982-6273

GOLD'S GYM XRS20 weight bench. Rarely used. Weight bar & weights incl., $225 obo.; Exercise trampoline, $15. (501)786-0642

HALF-STACK AMP, 4x10 cabinet, 100 watt, head trans. tube, good condition, $250. 681-0823 or 681-0832

54" SAMSUNG projection screen, works good, needs adjusted, pd. $1,500, asking $500. Need to get rid of it. (501) 837-9034 lv. msg.

LAWN & FARM EQUIPMENT

CRAFTSMAN PUSH-MOWER w/bagger, $75. 743-8792

MTD YARD Machine front tine tiller, 5 hp., Briggs & Stratton engine, $200 obo. (501) 514-3489, Steve

8x10 HARD plastic storage shed, paid $900, sell for $300 & 4 ft. high 170 ft. chain link fence w/80" gate & a 40" gate, $200, (you take down and move) 988-9886 or (5010 551-4997

AUTOS/ACCESSORIES

1990 Corvette, Teal met. green, tan leather, black trim, Exc. Cond., Rated 9 out of 10. 77,000 orig. mi., only 4,600 mi. on rebuilt eng., 26 mpg. hwy. Reduced, $8,195, Steve, (501) 606-6672

1996 CHEVROLET Ext. cab Z71, Blue, loaded, billet grill w/clear lens, new A/C system, new trans., toolbox, clean truck. $4,000 obo. (501) 681-7188

2006 CHEVROLET Impala LT 3.5L, black w/gray int., 45,000 mi., new tires, On-star, XM, MP3 player, tinted windows, ext. 75,000 mi. warranty, gets 31 MPG, $13,500. (501) 681-7188

2000 TOYOTA Tacoma Prerunner Xtra Cab, v-6, auto., pwr. windows/locks, cruise, running boards, $7,700. Jenna (501) 240-9761

2007 MAXIMA SE, Loaded; Black w/Gray interior; 14,000 miles; Clean. (501) 605-8946 after 5:00 pm.

1977 GRAND PRIX, power windows; nice car, new paint, carpets, vinyl top and weather stripping, $2,600 obo. (501) 988-4615

1980 CORVETTE, $8,500. PS, PB, A/C, alloy wheels, T-Top. (NADA average retail value $20,200). Lee at (cell) (501) 554-4402 or (home) (501) 796-7048

2006 NISSAN Sentra Special Edition, white, 4-Door Sedan, auto., all power, CD, cruise, 39 mpg., 58,000 mi., $9,980. 580-1047

1999 HONDA CRV, exc. cond., 74,000 mi., great gas mileage. $6,500 obo. 231-0828

TOOLBOX FOR a small size truck. Chrome diamond plate, excellent condition, $85. 681-0823

FULL-SIZE SHORT bed truck cap, color matched for gray Dodge, loaded with options, $1,000 obo. 940-3629

2007 SUZUKI GSXR600, Red, 1,400 miles, mint condition, $6,700 obo. (619) 246-7629

1993 CHEVY Step-side Mark 3 Pickup. 103,000 miles. Runs & looks great!! $5800 obo. 882-0032

FIFTH-WHEEL Hitch, older style, flat slide-in rails, $100. 413-7741

2005 MAZDA RX 8 Grand Touring Edition; Red/black leather. One owner, 6 spd., like new w/16,200 miles, sunroof, custom wheels, loaded. $19,500 obo. (501) 680-6024

2005 INFINITI G35 Coupe, 6-spd., man. trans., garage kept, 21,900 mi., bran new tires, synthetic oil changes only, sports car w/luxury to go. (704) 408-7563

1968 FORD F100, 4-spd., huge engine, runs great, $5,500 obo., needs paint. Alan, (501) 551-5556.

1999 CAMARO Conv., V-6, white, beige top and int., ground effects. 658-3505, Sandy

2004 TOYOTA 4-Runner, 2WD, 6-cyl., 62,500 mi., runs great/good cond! Carfax rpt. avail., Tow Pkg./roof rack! $15,500 obo. (501)628-7038

DK. GRN. 2001 Honda Civic EX , 180,000 mi., 5-spd., new tires, 17" rims, $5,000 obo., 7-2474 (cell (661) 209-6869)

2004 TOYOTA Sequoia, 3rd row seating, leather, nav. system, headrest dvds, 68,000, $19,500 or $17,000 w/out nav. & dvds.

COMPLETE SET of $800, 18 by 7 1/2" wheels w/rims! Tire size 255/55/18. Bolt patterns 5-4.5 and 5-4 3/4. Only used tires for 6 mos. Call for pixs! (501) 554-4564

ADVANCED GPS AUTO.COM - Powered by Millenium Plus - It is now possible to locate cars, trucks & recreational vehicles using advanced internet based GPS tracking systems. Millenium Plus allows you to save time & money. In the event your vehicle is stolen, you can locate it fast & disable the starter with the use of any computer connected to the internet. For more information, log on to www.advancedgpsauto.com or call our product specialist at 1-866-213-5138

TOOLBOX FOR a small size truck, chrome diamond plate, excellent condition, $75. 681-0823 or 681-0832

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

2005 ROAD Star, 13,000 miles, lots of chrome, 2 tone, wire rims, detachable,windscreen, sharp, soft tail, $10,000, offers considered. 351-5425

2006 YAMAHA 4x4 Kodiak 450. ONLY 30 hrs. used. Excellent/mint condition. 5 yr. transferable manufactory warranty. $6,200 obo. (501) 681-0037

2006 YAMAHA R-6, blue, perfect, not a scratch. 2,800 mi. Comes w/Icon jacket, 2 helmets & front stand + more. $8,300 obo. Make Offer, It Must Go. (859) 803-684

2002 KEYSTONE RV, Sprinter, heat/AC, 27' Travel Trailer, slide-out, extras. $13,900 obo. (501) 514-3489, Steve

1998 NITRO 18' Fish and Ski. 125 hp, power trim, 3 blade prop., with trailer, $8,400 obo. (501) 514-3489, Steve

We buy motorcycles & ATVs! Get top dollar here. Call Sunrise Honda (501) 305-2900*

2004 KAW STX12F Jet Ski: Exc. cond., always garaged, approx. 55 hrs. on eng. Recently serviced & ready for the water. White/blue/gray, black trailer w/spare & cover. MUST SELL! $5,500 obo. (501) 605-6665.

2006 YAMAHA R-6, blue, perfect, not a scratch, 2,800 miles. Comes w/Icon jacket, 2 helmets, front stand & more. $8,300 obo., Make offer, must go. (859) 803-6845

LOTS & ACREAGE

3 acre tree shaded lots. Chimney Rock Estates, Beebe. Paved Streets, city water, Beebe schools. Buyer's normal closing costs paid. 5.5% financing available. Buy now, build later. Call (501) 843-2774 or (501) 605-3847

LAND WANTED - Very serious buyer is looking for 3 to 10 acres in Cabot School district. Land must perk and have access to City water and not be inside a flood plain. Country setting with trees preferred and no low land. Family is Planning to build a 2500++ sq. ft. home and shop. Call Matt Robinson at 501-412-8055

HOUSES FOR RENT

FOR RENT: nice 2, 3 & 4 Bedroom Mobile Homes on large lots in quiet safe park, close to LRAFB. New carpet and appliances, community pool. Starting at $300 per month plus deposit. HUD accepting. Call today and get TWO WEEKS FREE RENT. (501) 835-3450.

Brand new duplex for rent in Ward: 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, all electric, washer & dryer included. 1 year lease required. $650 month, $300 deposit. Please call (501) 941-2726 or (501) 258-8960

For Lease: New - Vilonia, 3 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath, garage, full kitchen, stove, refrigerator, microwave, dishwasher, washer & dryer. Lawn care provider. Available +/- July 1st. $700 per month. (501) 428-0597 or (501) 428-2204

Duplex: 2 Bedroom, 1 Bath, Hwy. 107. Dishwasher & Washer/Dryer. Like new. Close to LRAFB. $550 rent, $275 deposit. Call (501) 425-6914

House for Rent in Cabot. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 1,365 sq. ft., 2 car garage. Easy interstate access. Brand new home! Rent, $1,100/month, $750 deposit. No pets. (501) 944-2312

Cabot: beautiful 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath on 1 1/2 acres. Central heat & air, fireplace, covered deck, double garage, fenced backyard, shop building. $1,075 month rent + $1,075 deposit. No smoking, outside pets okay. (501) 350-2322

3 Bedroom, 1 Bath, Central Heat & Air, carpet, storage building, 5 minutes to back gate. Great place for 2 guys to get out of the barracks. $450 month. No pets. (501) 837-0264, (501) 837-0268, (501) 988-5586

For Rent: Efficiency Apartment, 1 Bedroom, fully furnished including washer & dryer. Cabot area. Non-smokers only. No pets. References required. Ken Clark. (501) 843-7873

HOUSES FOR SALE

Beebe area, 2,164 sq. ft. New home on 3 acre lot. 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath. Large bonus room or 4th Bedroom, electronic security system, gas log fireplace, 2 car garage. Large deck, professionally landscaped, paved streets. Reduced price - $219,500. Move-in ready. Builder will pay up to $5,000 closing cost. To view home, call (501) 843-2774 or (501) 605-3847

Newly Remodeled! Gravel Ridge. $78,000. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, beautiful wood floors, new marble in kitchen, Jacuzzi tubs, new Central Heat & Air Conditioning. Must see! For appointment, call (501) 247-4556.

Collins Road - House for Sale - 1,628 sq. ft., 30x18 den with fireplace. new paint & carpet coming! Kitchen updated nicely. Peach, pecan & pear trees. Only $89,900. Call Michele today, (501) 590-1601

Vilonia - 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, all brick, 1,850 sq. ft., fireplace, 10' ceilings, alarm system, 2 car garage, oversized lot, fenced backyard, covered back porch. 7 years old. $161,000. Contact cell # 425-1583

Gravel Ridge: updated 4 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath, about 2,200 sq. ft., pantry/laundry room, bonus room, large backyard, partially covered patio. Available now & move in ready. Priced reduced. (501) 416-9251*

3 BR, 2 BATH with walk-in closet, 1,594 sq. ft., 2 car garage, fenced yard, all appliances stay, $129,000, in Cabot. (501) 843-1888

EVENTS >> 6-20-08

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 17:21:00 +0000

Retirements

Master Sgt. Gregory Cawley, 314th Logistics Readiness Squadron, will retire at 2 p.m., June 27 at the Jacksonville Museum of Military History, Jacksonville, Ark. Contact Tech. Sgt. Ryanne Campbell at 987-6201 to RSVP.

Ms. Jo Butts, 314th Services Squadron training manager, will retire on June 30 after 41 years of federal service. There will be a going-away luncheon on at 11:30 a.m., Wednesday at Hangar 1080. For more information, call 987-6440.

New degree offered

Webster University now offers an environmental management master�s degree, with military discount via Education Center at Little Rock AFB or on-line. For more information, contact Webster University at 988-5331, or www.webster.edu, or visit the university office in Room 110 in the Education Center, Bldg. 840 Leadership Drive.

Ground School in October

Embry-Riddle is planning to offer the ground school course in October that may be used toward a private pilot�s license. Individuals may enroll in the course as part of their degree program with Embry-Riddle, or for CCAF. They can also take the course as a certification. Tuition Assistance will pay for the course for Embry-Riddle. Embry-Riddle and has an agreement with Central Flying Service to accept the flying portion for those that pass, and it will be transferred in for an Embry-Riddle Aeronautical degree. The individual will have to pay for the Central Flying Service or use their GI Bill for that portion. For more information, call the education center at 987-3418.

Flight training benefits

Obtain flight training using Veterans Affairs benefits. To be eligible to receive VA benefits for flight training, you must have your Private Pilot Certificate and be enrolled in a VA-approved course. Training for your Private Pilot Certificate is not covered because the Private Pilot Certificate is not considered a professional certificate. The VA does not approve schools, it approves courses. The VA reimburses up to 60 percent of the cost for approved flight training after your Private Pilot Certificate. Do not assume that because a flight school advertises itself as VA-approved that you will be reimbursed for 60 percent of all the training there. In order to receive tuition assistance, the above rules still apply, but the institution must also be accredited. For more information, contact the VA at 1-800-GIBILL-1.

Volunteer opportunity

The Crossroads Cafe student/Airman center is seeking volunteers to help with operations from 6 to 10 p.m. Monday through Saturday. Training is provided. Volunteers can pick the night that best fits their schedule. Contact Lin Peeler, caf� contractor, at 786-9310.

Job openings

Current Services job openings are as follows: Lodging Custodial Worker, NA-02, flexible hours. Skills center, worker/leader NL-08, regular hours. Golf Course, starter marshall, NF-I, flexible hours. Data Automation, information technology Assistant, (IT) NF-III, flexible hours. Hangar 1080, food service worker, NA-02, flexible hours; cashier, NF-1, flexible hours; bartender, NA-05, flexible hours; Waiter, NA-01, flexible hours.All Federal NAF Employees are required by Public Law 104-134 to have salary payments made by electronic funds transfer/direct deposit.

Summary court claims

Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz Jr., 314th Airlift Wing commander, regretfully announces the death of Master Sgt. Tracy Sisco, 314th Security Forces Squadron. Anyone having claims against or indebtedness to the estate of Sergeant Sisco should contact 1st Lt. Tiffany Johnson, 314th Security Forces Squadron summary courts officer, at 987-2539.

TOP STORY >> New vest requirements

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:55:00 +0000

By Mr. Jim Yowell
314th Airlift Wing ground safety manager

Starting 15 July, Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz Jr., 314th Airlift Wing commander, has directed a change at Little Rock AFB to supplement the Air Force instruction 31-204, Air Force Motor Vehicle Traffic. In addition to the requirements found in AFI 91-207, this change requires motorcycle riders and passengers to wear a brightly colored, reflective motorcycle vest or a brightly-colored, reflective motorcycle jacket. The supplemental change to AFI 31-204, paragraph A6.19.1, will read as follows:

On-base: In addition to the requirements found in AFI 91-207, all motorcycle riders and motorcycle passengers regardless of status, civilian, active duty, reserve, visitor, etc., must wear a brightly colored, reflective vest or jacket on Little Rock Air Force Base.

Off-base: Active Duty members assigned to Little Rock Air Force Base will wear these approved items while riding off base as well. Department of the Air Force and non-appropriated funds employees will wear a brightly-colored, reflective vest or jacket when operating a motorcycle while in a duty status (i.e., while performing their official duties on or off the installation).

Anyone wishing to enter the base who does not meet this new standard will not be allowed to enter the base. Additionally, any service member assigned to Little Rock Air Force Base must meet this new standard when riding off base.

What is defined as �brightly colored?� Brightly-colored vests or jackets shall be in the color range as shown below. Any color that is shown below is considered bright. Black, other dark colors, and shades of gray or silver are not considered bright.

For more information, contact the Little Rock AFB motorcycle program manager at 987-5798.

COMMENTARY >> 'I'm sorry'...two simple words

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:54:00 +0000

By Chief Master Sgt. Jeffrey VanScoy
314th Comptroller Squadron

�I�m sorry.� These two words can mean the difference between success and failure as a leader.

As we go through life, we are bound to make mistakes. We have all made bad decisions or offended someone even when our intentions were pure. Sometimes the problem isn�t the problem. You see, it�s not always the mistake that makes us fail as leaders, it�s how we react to the mistake.

I am speaking of those times when we blow it with our co-workers, subordinates or supervisor. When we make a mistake, we need to humble ourselves, say �I�m sorry� and correct it.

This is not easy because it means admitting that we are not perfect. The ironic part is that although we may not want to admit we are wrong, the people around us know what is going on and often wait to see what we do next. By accepting responsibility and working with others to resolve the mistake, we gain the respect of those around us.

I must admit that recently even an old Chief like myself offended someone in another unit. Though my motive was to resolve a perceived issue, I did not have all the facts. After my blunder was brought to my attention, I could have been defensive, or driven by pride. Alternatively, I could decide to own up to my error and apologize.

The result is the difference between a good relationship and a bad one. Leaders, don�t be so focused with your position that you can�t admit you made a mistake and need help to fix it. You will actually gain the respect of your subordinates and peers.

All it takes is two words.

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Be a �difference maker�

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:44:00 +0000

By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
314th Airlift Wing command chief

As we go through many transitions ranging from downsizing, realigning our wing, while supporting a more robust deployment schedule, each one of us is compelled to do all we can to leave our mark on our organization. I�m not talking doing more with less; I�m referring to looking at the best ways to maximize our talents and available resources to become more efficient while maintaining effectiveness.

Each Team Little Rock Airman should first understand how what they do daily contributes to training and exporting the most focused and lethal brand of C-130 and C-21 assets worldwide. To be a difference maker we must be able to connect what happens in the work section, the tactical level, to what takes place all over the world, the strategic level.

When I entered the Air Force 25 years ago, we had in excess of 600,000 personnel; this number has been essentially cut in half. This fact alone demands that we all assess what functions are necessary and what things we can learn to live without. Who better to engage in this discussion than each one of us in our work sections. Being a difference maker requires thinking outside the box; looking for more creative ways to streamline or eliminate processes that don�t support our primary mission.
Our wing encourages each of you to use your chain of command to up channel your great initiatives; we will in turn look at incorporating these ideas here as well as sharing them around the command. I thank each one of you for taking this leadership opportunity serious and helping us help ourselves. We realize that no one has the market cornered on great ideas so please realize that difference makers see themselves directly tied to the big picture while daily making things better for those around them.

Each one of us represents the best chance our nation has for maintaining its place as the leader of the free world. Less than .02 of 1% of our nation of over 330 million people wears Air Force blue. You are already making a difference; so let�s continue to improve on our daily processes.

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Be smart this summer

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 23 Jun 2008 16:43:00 +0000

By Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz, Jr.
314th Airlift Wing commander

As the summer heat rises along with gas prices, people are increasingly turning to motorcycles as their chief means of transportation. We have had a few motorcycle mishaps and fatalities already this year, and summer brings more good-weather opportunities to ride on the open road, along with motorists who have forgotten over the winter to be mindful of motorcyclists on the roads again. Here are a few safety tips to remember:

Tip 1: Always wear a helmet and appropriate gear. A motorcycle rider not wearing a helmet is five times more likely to sustain a critical head injury. Leather clothing, boots, and gloves can protect your body from injuries if you have to skid. Wearing reflective clothes or accessories is a at night as well as during the day.

Tip 2: No matter how good a rider you are, you should always ride defensively. Don�t assume other drivers can see you. Ride with your lights on, stay out of blind spots, and signal well in advance.

Tip 3: Keep your skills honed through constant education. Don�t take the motorcycle course just to fulfill a requirement. Take riding courses every so often to gain experience and sharpen techniques.

Tip 4: Don�t ride if you�ve been drinking, and don�t ride if you are tired. Both intoxication and fatigue impair your ability to react, and motorcyclists must always be alert.

Starting the July 15, yes, just next month, we are directing an important change here at Team Little Rock to supplement AFI 31-204, which outlines specific motorcycle safety requirements. Our changes will require motorcycle riders and passengers to wear a brightly colored, reflective motorcycle vest or jacket while riding on and off base. These changes may seem inconvenient, but they were made with our best interests at heart. We will never be able to count the lives that could potentially be saved.

That being said, just a friendly reminder that points can be assessed towards your driving privileges on the installation. Remember: 12-12-6 is the standard here at Little Rock. If you receive 12 points in 12 months for any reason -- cell use, speeding, not stopping at stop signs, etc. -- your on-base driving privileges will be suspended for six months. Keep in mind cell phone use on base points have gone up; if ticketed, four points will be assessed to your license. It is a safety measure we are serious about. Drive safely, defensively and conscientiously.

Team Little Rock has experienced an undue amount of tragedy in the past few weeks. The adverse consequences of our actions and not doing our absolute best to watch out for our Wingman or other Airmen both on and off duty in general sometimes take us further than we�re willing to go, and keep us longer than we�re willing to stay. During the summer season, let�s press on as we remember how valuable we and the Airmen we fight next to are. Combat Airlift!

TOP STORY >> The Rock hosts 'D-Day' dining-in

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:51:00 +0000

By Maj. Kimberly Garbett
314th Airlift Wing public affairs

Over 250 members of Team Little Rock enjoyed a fun-filled evening of military heritage and camaraderie, June 6, at Hangar 276 for a time-honored military tradition: a dining-in.

The dining-in, especially designed to foster camaraderie and espirit-de-corps, commemorated and honored one of the most famous D-Days, June 6, 1944, the day on which the Invasion of Normandy began, commencing the Western Allied effort to liberate mainland Europe from Nazi occupation during World War II.

Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz, Jr., 314th Airlift Wing commander, presided as �president of the mess,� while Lt. Col. Aaron Maynard, 62nd Airlift Squadron commander, presided as �Mr. Vice,� ran the festivities in historic tradition.

Numerous military members were sent to toast to �Combat Airlift� that evening in fun-filled fashion for their slight infractions of the rules of the mess.

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Jack Downhill, a former commander of the 62nd Airlift Squadron at Little Rock AFB and a former C-130 pilot, flew the second C-47 aircraft to drop paratroopers over the beaches of Normandy June 6, 1944, was guest speaker for Team Little Rock 2008 dining-in. He recounted his memories and reflections of that now infamous day in history, and, although celebrating its 64th birthday, has never been forgotten.

The event also included memorabilia on display around the hangar of D-Day, a C-130 static display and a video presentation of the history of D-Day.

COMMENTARY >> Back to basics

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:49:00 +0000

By Chief Master Sgt. James Sargent
463rd Airlift Group superintendent

This past spring has been very busy here at the Rock! We�ve successfully completed three operational readiness inspections, multiple deployment rotations and the day to day training mission that keeps us all busy.

There are numerous challenges that lie ahead to include host base transfer and the many leadership changes that happen every PCS season.

With all that, it is easy to get caught up in the �project of the week� and lose focus on one of our primary responsibilities...Leadership! All of us are leaders, from the youngest Airman to the oldest chief. Below are some back-to-basics leadership guidelines we all can review to keep our focus sharp.

1. Engage -- take charge and be decisive in every situation -- don't waiver in the face of adversity.

2. Be professional -- be an expert in our profession of arms -- lead, supervise, and follow with confidence. Apply the core values in every endeavor of our profession and "coach" everyone to maximize individual and unit success.

3. Be knowledgeable -- know, understand, study, and apply our military standards, instructions, and directives in all endeavors.

4. Know your people - be an analog leader -- attain a "look you in the eye" attitude. Get to know them and personalize the opportunity to understand and appreciate who you lead and supervise.

5. Don't settle for second best -- set the standard bar high and hold your people accountable -- properly apply the disciplinary actions -- reward and recognize for those who strive for excellence.

6. Team Build -- be inclusive, firm, fair, equitable and consistent in your duties and responsibilities toward everyone. Instill a sense of pride, spirit, camaraderie and esprit de corps -- cheerlead success and excellence.

7. Communicate -- A four-way process -- up, down and across all levels and do it again. The most crucial aspect of enlisted leadership and supervision.

8. Be respectful -- treat others with compassion -- zero tolerance for maltreatment, harassment and discrimination.
9. Have fun -- invigorate and encourage social functions -- people must relax and have fun away from work.

Our mission, Combat Airlift, is our top priority! We have no place for "latch-key" supervisors or "caretaker" leaders who expect others to maintain the health, morale, welfare, discipline and readiness of our forces.

So step up and become the leader our Air Force needs!

Combat Airlift!

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Together...everyone accomplishes more

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:48:00 +0000

By Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley
314th Airlift Wing command chief

First, let me thank General Schatz and each of you for welcoming me and my family to Little Rock AFB. As I move around the base, I plan to meet all of you and thank you for your contributions to our nation�s security. I am happy to be a part of Team Little Rock! I have heard �Team� broken down like this - Together, Everyone Accomplishes More.

The ways I plan on helping the team is to place an emphasis on the following items: 1. Safety, 2. Training, 3. Supervisory Development, and 4. Quality of Life.

First, we cannot accomplish our mission if we are not acting in a safe way. I am passionate about each supervisor doing all they can to create and foster a safe work environment. Supervisors also need to stress off-duty safety. If you are ever unsure about a procedure or task from a safety standpoint, I am strongly encouraging you to seek guidance before you act. Safety is a team effort.

Second, if we are not properly trained, it can lead to second and third order effects, such as, hurting ourselves or someone else. Improper training also leads to replacing equipment and having to expend more time to redo a task. Training is the life blood of an organization.

Third, our Airmen will become the leaders they see. Plainly put, the first line supervisors are the key to our team functioning effectively. I believe promotions, awards, disciplinary actions, as well as many other things, are related to our supervisors. I expect each supervisor to take a personal interest in their subordinate; understanding how they live, work and play. This will be one that you typically hear more on.

Lastly, we will advocate for the things that enhance the way our Airmen and their families live through quality of life initiatives. We owe it to each member of our team that champion the right concerns to enhance environmental concerns for our teammates. It is a privilege to support you in these endeavors, and again thanks for everything you do daily. Combat Airlift!

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Be a good Airman...do your job

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Fri, 13 Jun 2008 16:46:00 +0000

By Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz, Jr.
314th Airlift Wing commander

As many of you may have heard, a few changes are underway in the upper echelon of Air Force leadership. Secretary of the Air Force Michael W. Wynne and Air Force Chief of Staff General T. Michael Moseley have been asked to resign due to a series of events that have highlighted a loss of focus on certain mission areas within our Air Force at various levels. Like any good leader, Secretary Wynne and General Moseley have taken full responsibility for the events that led to their resignation, but some of us may still be wondering how things got to this point.

The answer, you ask? An Airman is only as good as his Wingman, and the �Wingman concept� we have adopted heavily relies on our adherence to our Air Force�s carefully selected three core values. Because we all wear the same uniform and fight under the same banner, when one of our core values is compromised, it reflects on each of us and our American flag�our heritage, our honor. We must take care of each other; sometimes that means keeping each other in check when we see potential adverse consequences of a Wingman�s actions.

When Airmen don't do their mission properly, or follow checklists and job guides, people can get killed and missions fail. Responsibility for failure rises to the top of any organization. Airmen failed to follow proper procedures at Minot AB and allowed nuclear weapons to be flown across the United States. Airman failed to properly mark Minutemen missile warhead fuses and those fuses were shipped to Taiwan. The failure of some Airmen to properly do their duty and act in compliance with Air Force regulations and policy caused our Secretary and Chief of Staff to be relieved.

Every Airman at every level is vital to our mission. Each one of us � along with the decisions we make both on and off duty daily, the checklists we follow, the core values we adhere to - holds far-reaching effects on the entire Air Force family. Integrity, service before self and excellence in all we do need, to be remembered at all levels; they are key players in mission success�that�s why they were selected as our core values in the first place. We all need to look inside ourselves and re-commit to being good Airmen and good Wingmen...with all the responsibility that entails.

Secretary of Defense Robert Gates has nominated General Norton A. Schwartz, U.S. Transportation Command commander, to succeed General Moseley as Air Force chief of staff. I had the honor of serving under General Schwartz recently just prior to my arrival at Little Rock. When I heard the news he had been nominated, I was very excited for our Air Force. General Schwartz is an outstanding leader deeply dedicated to the service of our country. We will be in very good hands under his leadership.
Despite recent turmoil, we remain the best Air Force in the world. We will continue to be the best as long as we exist � as long as we remember and live by our core values, as long as we are training to the best of our abilities, and as long as we -- as warfighters -- continue to fight for all that is right and just: freedom and democracy for our country and our fellow citizens.
I�d like to take a moment to share some sad news with our Team Little Rock community. This past week we�ve had to say untimely farewells to two members of our Air Force family. Maj. Charles Roberts, 314th Medical Group, and Master Sgt. Tracy Sisco, 314th Security Forces Squadron, passed away this week. There�s no one thing to be said that could pay proper tribute to everything that is owed to these two comrades for their service. Our entire nation should be grateful for their patriotism, and we are grateful to them for their friendship and leadership. Both are already truly missed, however, we as an Air Force family must press on in the shadow of their legacy and continue to carry the torch they helped us all keep lit with fond memories of them�always.

One final note, especially for those fathers out there, and as the father of two beautiful children myself: have a safe and well-deserved Fathers� Day Sunday. Each member of Team Little Rock, as well as our Air Force and sister-service comrades, work hard in service to our country so our children of today can have a better tomorrow.

Combat Airlift!

TOP STORY >> Civil engineers hold training exercise

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 19:30:00 +0000

Each month the 314th Civil Engineer Squadron can be found training for war. They operate with their battle rattle and M-16s honing their skills as they constantly prepare to deploy.

During the third week of May, civil engineers put aside their home station duties to participate in a 5 day, 4 night training and exercise event. Eighty-three engineers packed their bags to live out of two primary locations, Camp Warlord and Blackjack drop zone.

The engineers at CWL went through classes and exercises increasing their skills at team movements, night operations, and many other classes typically taught at a CWL training session.

These engineers also worked on their contingency construction skills by making repairs and upgrades to the CWL training area. Engineers installed new area lighting, re-sided hooches, re-built DFPs and many other projects.

The 13 engineers operating at Blackjack drop zone had another mission. They had to operate in austere conditions to repair a road, install a gate, and build a loading dock. They also trained on field sanitation and hygiene, work party security, and convoy operations. The hub and spoke operation allowed the combat engineers to complete two missions at one time.

The five day exercise also provided training and preparation for the CWL cadre. Each year CE volunteers to be the test students before the official CWL season begins.

The cadre used the opportunity to put their new scenarios, training techniques, and classroom briefs to the test to ensure the rest of the base gets the highest quality training from the start. The CWL season began 4 June and will run through 29 August with six training sessions.

COMMENTARY >> Green Flag Little Rock and the 34th Combat Training Squadron

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 19:29:00 +0000

By By Lt. Col. Mike Zuber
34th Combat Training Squadron commander

As I walk around Little Rock AFB I still hear the question �34 CTS? What do you guys do?� This is my chance to tell you how we support Combat Airlift.

Green Flag Little Rock is the Mobility Air Forces contribution to the Joint Readiness Training Center exercise at Fort Polk, La. Our mission is unlike any other in Air Mobility Command. We provide the most realistic tactical level Joint Combat Employment Training in a low to medium intensity conflict, tailored to meet MAF needs!

Sounds great but what does that mean? Our objective is to provide a realistic combat simulation so airlift crews can experience their first five combat missions in a controlled training environment. GFLR exposes aircrews and planning staffs to a continuous, real time and increasingly intense combat environment.

The primary Air Mobility Command objective for JRTC is to provide a simulated combat environment with emphasis on joint force integration for the maximum number of airlift crews, mission planners and ground support elements. Emphasis is placed on providing training not normally available in a local training environment. MAF units and personnel train with Army brigade level units, 3,000 to 5,000 soldiers, normally light infantry, but may include mechanized infantry, cavalry or armor units, in a free play force on force combat environment. The 34 CTS is the executive agent integrating ground force units with air mobility squadrons operating out of Little Rock AFB.

I�m sure many of you have noticed some of our coalition partners flying out of Little Rock AFB and wondered why they�re here. In the last three years, the 34th has hosted more foreign participation than in the last 10 years combined. The issues of coalition operations, interfly and interoperability are being addressed and validated on a regular basis through GFLR exercises. The success of coalitions operations depends heavily on the understanding and integration of combat capability from participating nations. The integration of Canada, Britain, New Zealand, Australia and Germany into GFLR is allowing us to coordinate, plan and test every operational aspect of airlift mission execution in a simulated combat environment.

JRTC exercises foster a mindset of joint and coalition interoperability and communications. Green Flag Little Rock is to the airlift community and Combat Airlift what Red Flag is to the fighter community.

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Enjoy the summer ... safely

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 19:25:00 +0000

By Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz, Jr.
314th Airlift Wing commander

We're two weeks into the 101 Critical Days of Summer campaign, and as temperatures everywhere begin to rise, it's only natural that we would try to enjoy some fun summer activities while trying to cool down at the same time. That is why there's no better time to talk about water safety.

Whenever you choose to swim, remember to never swim alone. Even if you are an excellent swimmer, things happen sometimes that are beyond our control. Simply enjoying the water with a wingman goes a long way towards staying safe. Also remember, you should never drink alcohol when around water. As with driving, a large percentage of water accidents and casualties involve alcohol and many of these accidents are 100 percent preventable.

We are also heading right into the PCS season. Many of us here at Team Little Rock will be saying good-bye to old friends and hello to new teammates and neighbors. We will all be experiencing at least a little stress including the stress of moving our families, the stress of saying goodbye and the stress of change, be it in our neighborhoods or in the workplace. Through it all, we must remember that with these changes come the opportunity to meet new friends, gain new experiences, and new opportunities for growth in both our personal and professional lives.

I would also like to take the time to welcome our new 314th Airlift Wing command chief, Chief Master Sgt. Anthony Brinkley and his wife Than. Chief Brinkley comes to us from the 8th Fighter Wing "Wolf Pack" in Kunsan AFB, Republic of Korea. With over 24 years in the Air Force, nearly 12 of which were served performing first sergeant duties, Chief Brinkley's experience will truly be an asset to us all as he oversees the health, morale and welfare of the wing's enlisted personnel.

Tonight we will be honoring true American heroes at our Team Little Rock D-Day Dining-In. The Dining-In is a great tradition in our Air Force and this one will celebrate the 64th Anniversary of D-Day. It will truly be an honor to hear from Lt. Col. (Ret.) Jack Downhill, a former 62nd Airlift Squadron commander, who will speak about his experiences as a C-47 pilot dropping paratroopers over Normandy on D-Day. On behalf of all of Team Little Rock, I would like to welcome and thank Colonel Downhill for being with us in remembrance of D-Day.

Let's continue to make wise choices, be good wingmen, and enjoy the summer sun safely! See you tonight at the Dining-In!

Combat Airlift!

COMMENTARY >> Did you lead today?

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 17:28:00 +0000

By Senior Master Sgt. John Spillane
29th Weapons Squadron superintendent

Did you lead today or did work get in your way?

On most days, I bet the answer to that question is, work got in the way. In our modern day Air Force, e-mail, phone calls, shrinking budgets and consolidation, doing more with less, distract all of us. We get caught up in our jobs and don�t �lead� on a day-to-day basis. So, I must ask you, �Did you lead today?�

Commander�s desks are stacked high with officer performance reports, first sergeants are coordinating everything from luncheon pro-ratas to what�s going on in military fashion, supervisors are prepping continuity books for the next inspection and everyone else is eyeballs-deep just trying to get to the end of the work day.

There are many reasons why this occurs, but the primary reason is we have to get �work stuff� done. We get caught up in this kind of work stuff, because as a society we define each other by our work.

To illustrate my point, when we meet someone new, one of the first questions we always ask is, �So�what do you do?�
So far, in 45 years of asking that question, nobody has said, �I lead!� I think that leadership is getting buried beneath our everyday lives and we need to get it out, dust it off and exercise it a little more often.

As Airmen, non-commissioned officers and officers in the United States Air Force, it is imperative that we lead every day.
Air Force Doctrine Document 1-1 states, �Leadership is the art of influencing and directing personnel to accomplish the assigned mission.�

Most readers already know this because Airman Leadership School, NCO Academy, Senior NCO Academy, the Chief�s Leadership Course, the USAF Academy, Air and Space Basic Course, Squadron Officer School, Air Command and Staff College and the Air War College all teach leadership.

Talking about leadership in an academic environment is easy; practicing leadership in the real world, however, is a bit different. Let�s clear some things up.

Conducting roll call is not leading! Making sure a fleet of trucks get washed is not leading! Being an aircraft commander and flying an airplane is not leading! Checking time cards, reviewing customer comments, responding to office e-mails or attending a staff meeting is not leading!

The Air Force definition of leadership, �the art of influencing and directing,� describes leadership but doesn�t adequately describe how to execute the challenge of leading on a day to day basis.

To help out the Air Force definition of leadership, I follow my own definition of leadership which is, �The art of inspiring others to accept the responsibility of executing the leader�s vision.�

That statement alone gives me a definition and a mission statement. A leader�s job is to inspire! A leader�s job is to get his or her followers to embrace a vision! A leader�s job is to get everyone to accept the responsibility of getting the job done right!
Leadership is hard. Most Air Force members have gone to school to learn about leading.

Most Air Force members can recognize leadership when they see it. As Air Force members, we need to crawl out from under our pile of work and translate our leadership education into leadership action.

The question is: did you lead today? Did you set a great example? Did you inspire a subordinate? Did you boost morale? Did you share the commander�s vision with someone? Did you make the work environment better?

We all have a leadership education, we can all recognize leadership, we all have the opportunity: the question is: �Did you lead today?� If not, �Will you lead tomorrow?�

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Thank you

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 17:27:00 +0000

By Chief Master Sgt. Brooke McLean
314th Airlift Wing command chief

It�s been about 20 months since Maria and I arrived in Arkansas, and it�s been an incredible opportunity for us. We�ve enjoyed living among friends and comrades in arms, interacting with a wonderful community and sharing a sense of purpose and mission.
The Air Force has blessed us with the opportunity to be here and to focus on life beyond our calling. We serve in an Air Force at war going through incredibly difficult times and transformational endeavors.

I have learned in my 25 years of service that our Air Force will prevail. We will dominate the skies regardless of challenge, enemy, change or even who sits in the White House. Another chapter is yet to be written for all of us.

One day we will all wear the uniform for the last time and leave the work to the next generation. It�s equally important to accomplish the mission and to remember we are individuals with life after our service to the nation.

I�ve encouraged countless newcomers to the Rock to strive to improve four areas of their lives during their tour: physical, mental, spiritual and financial. For Maria and I, we can depart the Rock and know we�ve reached many of our goals while still leaving some to tackle.

We will miss Little Rock AFB and the central Arkansas region. Chief Master Sgt. Tony Brinkley and his wife Than will carry on the tasks and certainly bring a new purpose to the men and women they will serve. Maria and I never say goodbye � only see you later. I hope to see you soon.

Combat Airlift!

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> 101 critical days � striving for safety

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 17:25:00 +0000

By Brig. Gen. Rowayne A. Schatz, Jr.
314th Airlift Wing commander

It�s great to be home Team Little Rock! I just spent the last month at Columbus AFB, Miss. as the President of a Safety Investigation Board for a T-38 that crashed on April 23, killing both pilots on board.

It was a sober experience walking the crash site, then spending a month trying to figure out what happened. I�ll never forget the smell of burnt aircraft aluminum and jet fuel. It is a smell that gets embedded in your skin as you walk the ground where two valued Airmen/sons/fathers died. It�s something no commander ever wants to smell on his or her watch.

That�s why commanders care about safety. We don�t ever want to walk the ground to investigate why you, one of our valued Airmen, died in an accident.

My first day back was last Friday, just in time to participate in Wingman Day which we purposely focused on safety and getting ready for the 101 critical days of summer. Our Wing Safety team did a great job building the plan for Wingman Day and I look forward to your feedback on how we can work to make Team Little Rock even better.

As we head toward another sunny summer season, we need to remember historically this time period poses the highest risk for accidents. Last Friday, AETC kicked off the initiative �Operation Safe Summer � Campaign for Safety!� offering education on the hazards and dangers the 101 critical days can present.

The Air Force lost 19 Airman during this same timeframe last year. According to the mishap data, 15 of those 19 fatalities were consequences of Airmen making poor choices leading up to these 100 percent preventable accidents. Team Little Rock lost three Airmen to motorcycle accidents last year, and I don�t ever want to give another speech at a memorial for one of our Airmen that was killed in a motorcycle accident. I need you to make safety and personal risk management a priority -- to protect each other, our people�our most valuable resource.

One of our hot safety topics is seat belt use. The leading cause of fatal mishaps during the 101 Critical Days of Summer is off-duty private motor vehicle mishaps. Proper seat belt use is one of the easiest ways to protect yourself. From 1975 to 2000, seat belts are estimated to have saved 135,102 lives, with 11,889 lives saved in 2000 alone. Seat belts remain mandatory on or off base, and on or off duty. No matter where you are or how fast you are going, wearing a seat belt will greatly increase your chance for survival.

Next Friday night we will hold a Team Little Rock D-Day Dining-In in Hangar 276 to celebrate our Combat Airlift heritage. Lt. Col. (Ret) Jack Downhill will be our guest speaker. Jack is a former commander of the 62nd Airlift Squadron and flew as a C-47 aircraft commander on D-Day. Our committee has a great evening planned and there are still some tickets available. I promise a fun night full of camaraderie and heritage�please come join us.

Tomorrow night we gather to say farewell and thank-you to Chief Brooke and Maria McLean. The McLean�s depart early next week for Hurlburt Field, Florida where Chief will assume the duties of the Command Chief for the 1st Special Operations Wing.
Chief, thanks for your selfless dedication to our Airmen and their families.

You and Maria have been a key part of our Team Little Rock leadership team for two years. You have made a positive difference in the quality of life for our Airmen and their families. Kim and I will miss you and Maria, and we join the Team Little Rock Community in wishing you fair skies and tailwinds always. You�ll be missed!

Again, it�s great to be home Team Little Rock. Thanks for all you do every day to help defend our nation and our way of life. Combat Airlift!

TOP STORY >> Just in time for summer: Outdoor fire safety

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:38:00 +0000

By Joe G. Willett
314th Civil Engineering Squadron, assistant chief of fire prevention

The smells of fresh cut grass and hamburgers on the grill signal the beginning of summer. Make this summer safe by following these outdoor fire safety tips.

Grilling

� We all enjoy cooking foods outside and making use of the brand new grill we just bought, however; this can also be one of the leading causes of fires and injuries. Before you fire up that grill, please take a few minutes and think.

� When establishing a site for a barbecue, be sure there is nothing hanging overhead and it is a safe distance from trees, buildings and other combustibles, at least 10 feet from any structure to include wooden fences.

� When using starting your fire, use only the lighter fluids designated for use with charcoal grills.

� Never use gasoline to start your fire. Do not set it down by the grill.

� Don�t add charcoal starter fluid to the fire after it has begun. The flames can travel up to the container and cause an explosion.

� Don�t wear loose clothing or robes around charcoal grills. Flaming grease can ignite clothing. Keep a small spray bottle of water handy to douse flaming grease.

� Liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) when used to fire a home barbecue, is contained under pressure in a steel cylinder. The contents of an LPG cylinder, vaporized and in a confined area, have the explosive force of several sticks of dynamite. Therefore, the wise user of LPG will be aware of the dangers involved and the precautions that must be taken.

� Read the manufacturer�s instructions and be sure you thoroughly understand them.

� Do not transport cylinders in the trunk of a passenger vehicle. A filled cylinder should always be transported in an upright position on the floor of a vehicle with all windows open. Remove the cylinder from the vehicle as soon as possible. Never leave a cylinder in a parked vehicle.

� Using the proper size of wrench, make sure that all connections are tight. Remember that fittings on flammable gas cylinders have left-hand threads, requiring effort in a counterclockwise direction to tighten.

� Make sure that grease is not allowed to drip on the hose or cylinders.

� Don�t be tempted by a rainy day to use outdoor cooking equipment inside � not even in a carport or garage.

� Never use a gas-fired barbecue inside any structure.

Power Equipment

� Power lawnmowers make the job much simpler than hand propelled mowers. However, if not used with caution, lawnmowers can be dangerous.

� If you own a gas-powered mower or gas powered outdoor yard maintenance tools such as a chain saw, check the condition of the muffler at the beginning of the season. Spark arresters on mufflers should be considered in areas where dry grass is common.

� Hot gasses from defective mufflers often can ignite dry grass.

� Never refuel power tools when the engine is running and never refuel it inside a tool shed or a garage. Do so only outside, in well ventilated areas.

� Once the engine has been fueled, wipe up gasoline spills. Since gasoline vapors can travel along the ground and be ignited by a nearby flame, move at least 10 feet away from the fueling spot, and the vapors, before starting the motor. If you must refuel, cool the motor before doing so.

� Never smoke when you use gasoline. Remember that the invisible fumes from the gasoline can seek out a spark or flame from as far as 50 feet away. Once the fumes meet the spark, you, your clothes and skin could be engulfed in flames. Keep away from cigarettes, water heater pilot lights and any flames if you�re handling gasoline.

� Store gasoline in a ventilated area in tightly closed cans away from children, sparks, and flame sources.
Get out and enjoy summer time activities but please take a few minutes and think about fire safety first.

COMMENTARY >> Add some life to your fun

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:37:00 +0000

By Col. Jim Summers
By 189th Airlift Wing commander

There are plenty of �Don�ts� in this world, aren�t there? Don�t drink and drive. Don�t forget your helmet. Don�t forget your seatbelt. Don�t go swimming until an hour has passed after eating.

Parents, supervisors, first sergeants and commanders have been taking the fun out of life for years, right? Perhaps you should look at it this way: They�ve been adding life to your fun.

As a supervisor and a commander, I�ve heard all the excuses: �Colonel, I love to feel the wind blow through my hair as I ride my motorcycle through the Ozarks.�

Allow me to counter with: �Would you love the way the asphalt feels as it rips your aforementioned hair from your head as you skid along the pavement after an accident?� That�s why we wear helmets, and yes, I�ve got a motorcycle.

Another excuse I�ve heard: �Colonel, I don�t like feeling constricted, that�s why I don�t wear my seatbelt.�

Allow me to counter with: �Constricted, huh? What would you call lying in the floor of the crumpled heap you used to call your automobile, while the fire department extracts you with the Jaws of Life?� I�d call that more constrictive than a piece of material that crosses over your lap and chest and buckles into a receptacle by your seat.

Do you see the pattern here? Do you smell what I�m cookin�? Both of these examples drive home � pun intended � the importance of taking proper precautions for the activity you�re engaging in. Failing to do so could result in you not coming home at the end of the day.

We�re not trying to take the fun out of your life, we�re adding life to your fun. I want each of you to be able to enjoy all of the 101 Critical Days of Summer between Memorial Day and Labor Day � not just the first three or four.

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Change is nothing to fear

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:36:00 +0000

By Chief Master Sgt. Brooke McLean
314th Airlift Wing command chief

It�s venturing into uncharted territory. It�s going outside our comfort zone. It�s changing rank and finding our previous friends are no longer peers � they may even work for us.

Is it fear? No, it�s change. It�s the inevitable evolution of our lives that often leaves us with a hollow pit in our stomach and a dry mouth. Change in our lives can be one of the most traumatic events and has even been known to cause physical illness. �
The good news is our Air Force has prepared us from day one to recognize change, assess the positives and negatives and through training, education, and preparation. Transform it into opportunity and success. Impressions regarding the positives and negatives of change are easily influenced by leadership and this is a challenge for all levels of the chain of command.
We�re confronted with issues from housing dilemmas to Air Force wide manpower cuts that affect and touch us every day. Commanders will change and supervisors will rotate. Many of us will begin October in a new major command.

How we react to those changes is what defines us. How we support the chain of command can have tremendous impacts on whether the change occurs easily or meets resistance for longer durations.

The education, training and preparations provided by the Air Force are keys to making changes into opportunities. �

In the months to come, Little Rock AFB will pass through a window of change and we�re prepared to make this a great opportunity.

There are certainly going to be challenges and frustrations but we�re prepared and the key focus area of Little Rock AFB, providing Combat Airlift, will not change.

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> A night to remember

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Tue, 10 Jun 2008 16:27:00 +0000

By Col. Mark Vlahos
314th Airlift Wing vice commander

On the night of June 6, Team Little Rock will hold a Dining-In to celebrate the 64th Anniversary of Operation Overlord or D-Day. This event is exactly two weeks away, and I encourage all military and civilian government employees to attend. Our Team Little Rock Combat Airlift roots can be directly tied to the Airborne invasion--Operation Neptune--that secured the flanks of the five American and British landing beaches.

At approximately 11 p.m. on the night of May 5, 1944, 60 C-47 aircraft from the 314th Troop Carrier Group took off from Saltby Air Field in Leicester, England and began circling as they formed up as part of an American 850-plane formation with some gliders in tow.

Once the formation was assembled, a southern heading was established with a destination of the Cherbourg Peninsula in France. At this time, the 314th TCG consisted of the 32nd, 50th, 61st, and 62nd Troop Carrier Squadrons ... three of which are still assigned to Little Rock AFB today.

At 2:08 a.m. on the June 6, 1944, at an altitude of 500 to 700 feet, the 62nd hit Drop Zone November, just west of Sainte-M�re-�glise. The 314 TCG carried paratroopers from the 82nd Airborne Division whose mission was to secure the right flank of the American landing beaches.

At the head of the 314th TCG formation was the 62nd Troop Carrier Squadron and flying in the number-2 plane that night was a young pilot named Jack Downhill. Jack Downhill is now 86 years old and lives outside Los Angeles, Calif. He will be our guest speaker for the Team Little Rock Dining In. We are truly honored to have this living hero as our guest speaker, just his presence will truly make this a night to remember. I�ve met Jack at a couple of previous Yacht Club reunions.

He is quite an impressive man and I know you will enjoy listening to his stories from that day ... D-Day. Jack Downhill rose to command the 62nd in 1946 and retired as a Lieutenant Colonel. With our World War II veterans passing away at the rate of over 1,600 per day, we are fast losing the greatest generation.

After dropping men and equipment, the 314th TCG C-47s continued crossing the Cotentin Peninsula on their way back to England. Of the 60 C-47s flown by the 314th TCG that night, anti-aircraft fire destroyed one plane and damaged 16.

Of the 850 American troop carrier planes involved in the mission, all but 21 planes returned to base.

Of the 400-plane British formation only eight failed to return.

On the morning of June 7th, 39 aircraft from the 314th TCG took off to resupply the paratroopers dropped the night before.
One plane was destroyed, 24 damaged and 2 did not return to base. The men flying over France those two nights were part of something bigger than they ever could have imagined ... the rest is history.

I hope you enjoyed this small slice from our Combat Airlift history. I believe it is important to know your heritage and withhold the high standards that those before us set, so those coming after us will too.

Our heritage continues today, as every combat mission flown by a C-130 can trace its roots in some way to Little Rock Air Force Base. Let�s continue to focus on Job One everyday . . . fixing and flying safe airplanes . . . and make Jack Downhill proud.

CLASSIFIEDS >> 05-16-08

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 19 May 2008 18:09:00 +0000

ANNOUNCEMENTS

THE DROP ZONE CLASSIFIED DEPARTMENT will take ads by phone from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday 982-9421, or you may mail your ad to 404 Graham Rd., Jacksonville, AR 72078. You may also email them to dropzoneclassifieds@arkansasleader.com Deadline to advertise in Friday issue is 5 p.m. Tuesday.

THRIFT SHOP open to the public. MWF, 10 am to 2 pm, first Saturday monthly. Great bargains. All revenues used to support mission. Volunteers and donations welcome. Jacksonville Care Channel, 201 Elm, 982-4647.

AA Lunch group, meeting noon-1pm. Big book study group every Wednesday in room 106, base Chapel annex. Please come

Armed Force Day BBQ - delicious food, exciting games, excellent music - 2 pm., May 17 by dorm area basketball court. Sponsors - Dorm Council & Base Chapel.

YARD SALES

RUMMAGE SALE, Friday, May 16, 8 a.m. til ?, side parking lot of Credit Union. All proceeds are matched dollar for dollar by AFCU. Men's, women's, children's, and household items.

YARD SALE- May 24th, (Sat.) at 127 Idaho Cir. (Base Housing, Lake Side) from 1000 to 1400. Tommy, (201)400-7161.

HELP WANTED

Drivers: Wanted Owner Operators! Top Pay! Good Weekly Miles! 90% No Touch! FSC Paid All Miles! Woodfield, Inc., 800-501-6020 x13.

Part-time office help needed in Jacksonville, 30-35 hrs. per week. Duties to include: filing, phone, data entry & light bookkeeping. Please mail resume to: P.O. Box 5646, Jacksonville, AR 72078 or e-mail to: dataentry811@gmail.com

HORSES

HORSES: LUCKY Acres Boarding Stable, TLC for your horse, box stalls and paddocks, clean pastures, indoor and outdoor arenas, riding instruction and training program. Dressage our specialty. (501) 988-2458.*

PETS

FREE KITTENS!! 985-9730

FREE SIBERIAN Husky, 1 yr. old female, spayed with all shots. 425-4996

FREE KITTEN, 743-5370

2 CATS, free to a good home. 1 siamese w/blue eyes, one brown tiger striped, from same litter, approx. 7 mos. old, house trained, very loving & attentive. (210) 381-6401 after 3 pm.

CAT, FREE to good home. Shelby is a five yr. old Tabby cat, gray w/white stripes. Indoor cat, hasn't been fixed or declawed. All shots current. 593-0403.

CATS NEED a home, indoor or outdoor, adult or kitten, many to choose from. Help me save their lives, pick one up soon. Leave a message at (501) 207-2524.

FREE DOG- New Foundland/Chow mix, we are letting her go because we're pcsing. Very nice dog, Tommy, (201) 400-7161

FURNITURE

Two black metal loft beds (single size) each w/desk attached underneath, $100 ea. obo., 743-5370.

Lazyboy electric/heated Lift Chair/Recliner. Great for people w/mobility problems. 6 mos. old. Retail $1,400, Paid $1,000, asking $700. 835-7094

SOFA, flower print but comes w/Blue Slip Cover. Will deliver to Cabot or Base. $200 obo. (501) 941-1828, leave message, will send pics!

HONEY PINE QUEEN BDRM. SET. REAL WOOD, HEAD/FOOT BOARDS, RAILS, 6-DRAWER CHEST OF DRAWERS, AND NIGHT STAND (MATTRESSES NOT INCL.) GREAT CONDITION. $800 OBO, (501) 551-6660 CABOT.

Black Entertainment Center w/coffee table, two end tables, $600; Black computer desk, $100; Beige micro-fiber sectional, $600. (501) 940-4430

MAYTAG WASHER & Dryer, great condition, white, extended warranty until 2010, $750. Must be able to pick up in Ward. (310) 925-6613

MISSION STYLE Solid oak futon w/new mattress, $125. 817-0714

TAN MICRO-SUEDE sofa & loveseat, excellent cond., $550. 1 yr. old. Stove, dishwasher, above range microwave- $250. All for $700. Jacksonville area. (501) 944-2621 for more info.

QUEEN MATTRESS, box spring and frame, Simmons. Beautyrest Elite, excellent condition, $125. 412-2593.

ROUND END tables , $35 for 2; Glass round table w/chairs, $110 obo.; Antique White Queen Wrought Iron Headboard, $150 obo. (501) 231-6383

Lane sofa/loveseat, $600; Curio cabinet, $150; 2-drawer oak filing cabinet, $75; "Icebox" end tables/lift-up coffee table, $150. (775) 830-8052

3 IN 1 Combo bassinet, changing table, crib by your bedside, remote control mobile, great condition, $50. 605-8049

LOST & FOUND

FOUND: WATCH at the Commissary. Call to identify. 988-1767

LOST: YELLOW Gold Wedding Band, April 21, possibly at AR Federal Credit Union in Jax., reward, 843-1094.

ITEMS FOR SALE

8'x10' metal shed (1 yr. old) $150 obo. & 10.1 cubic feet Kenmore chest freezer, $50 obo. 258-6045

Char-broil Patio Caddie, propane grill. Good condition, no tank included. Bought new $150, sell for $50. (501) 366-1125.

DELL COMPUTER, flat screen w/printer/scanner/fax combo, $350 obo. 988-9568 for more info.

INFANT GIRL Crib set, lamp light, switch plate and wall hangings included. $75 obo. 988-9568

2-12" L7 Kicker solarbaric subs. Never used, factory price $300-$400 each. Sell both for $395 obo. (501) 912-0636 Andre.

WASHER & DRYER. Matching White Set. Original Manuals included. Excellent Condition. $400 set. Cynthia @ (501) 258-6057

TOASTMASTER TOASTER Oven Broiler & SUNBEAM Microwave Oven, both White. $45 set. Cynthia @ (501) 258-6057

YERF DOG Go Cart, Two seater, 6.5 HP Engine, roll cage and seat belts. Red in color. $400 obo. (501) 580-9942 for info.

BABY JOGGER, Twinner II (Double) - 20" wheels, 5 pt. harnesses, retractable sun shade, blue color, safety reflective strips, very good condition for $100, 833-6031.

BOWFLEX Exercise system, $500. 983-1009

Maternity clothes/misc., 41 pieces, M/L, for only $60. Call for details. (573) 578-0917, Cabot.

Kolcraft Light Vibes Rocking Bassinet, $45; J. Mason Safe Surround Playpen (Sesame Street), $25; Safety 1st Bathtub, $5. 573-578-0917 Cabot

COSTUMES: Shrek (2-4T) $5; Monkey (6-18m) $10; Skeleton (3-6m) $5. (573) 578-0917, Cabot.

Tigger Snowsuit (0-3m), $10; Bear Snowsuit (0-3m), $8; Coat w/Hood (18m), $5. (573) 578-0917, Cabot.

48 misc. pieces, M/L for only $10. Includes frames, mats, books, paper shredder, iron, etc. (573) 578-0917, Cabot.

Massage Table w/face cradle and arm rest. Burgandy. Makes a great permanent table, $225; Massage Office Software, $50. (501) 240-1095, leave message.

LEXMARK 1100 Color Jet Printer, $25; Kenwood 241A Transceiver, $85; Astron Power Supply, RS20A, $80; MJF Antenna Tuner 901, $75. 362-2206

MAYTAG WASHER & dryer, great cond., white, extended warranty until 2010, $600, must be able to pick up in Ward. (310) 925-6613, Cherry.

GRACO DOUBLE stroller, $75. 817-0714

120 FT. chain-link fence. 982-6341 after 5 p.m.

Matted kitchen picture frame, $18 for 2; Mattress & box springs (Bassett Double), $150. (501) 231-6383

KENMORE DRYER, super capacity gas dryer, works great, $50 (firm). (501) 628-8061

WASHER & Dryer, great condition, $150. 240-9146

WHITE UPRIGHT Freezer, next to new, exc. condition, $250. 240-9146

WHIRLPOOL DELUXE washer & dryer, large capacity, heavy duty, perfect condition, must sell, $285 cash. 224-6769

REFRIGERATOR, WHIRLPOOL Deluxe, newer side-by-side, perfect condition, moving, must sell, $485 cash. 224-6769

47" SAMSUNG TV, 5 yrs. old. Digital, cable ready, PIP. Great Living Room set. Orig. paid $1,600, sell for $400. Must go. (501) 951-5235

HUNTER CEILING fan, white, excellent condition, $20, 833-8307

BATHROOM LIGHT fixture brass w/globes, good condition, $12. 833-8307

EDDIE BAUER car seat, green & beige, good condition, $15. 833-8307

GRACO CARSEAT, blue & gray, good condition, $10.00. 833-8307

CHILD'S BEDROOM accessories, go w/Americana Look, pictures, twin bed sheets & spread, dust ruffles, stools & desk, will sell separately or together, call for prices, cheap! 833-8307

DELL COMPUTER/2004-19 in. TV screen desktop computer w/Pentium 4 processor. New hard drive, about two yrs. old. Printer/scanner also available & computer desk, black in color, $200. 593-0403.

AIR FORCE mess dress, 42S jacket, pants 35x29. $150. (850) 398-3749.

POOL TABLE 8 ft. slate w/red felt. Recently replaced all rails. Must sell, $400 obo. (740) 818-9695 Ryan

HOME GYM, check it out & make me an offer. MUST GO!!! Tommy, (201) 400-7161

AUTOS/ACCESSORIES

1990 Corvette, Teal metallic green, tan leather, black trim, Exc. Cond., 77,000 orig. mi., eng. rebuilt w/only 4,600 miles. Everything works. $9,500, Steve, (501) 606-6672

2007 DODGE Charger, silver, custom wheels, 3.5 w/4,000 miles. Like new, sexy car, moving for work must sell. $19,999 obo. (501) 772-1388.

1999 Ford Expedition, Looks great, runs great. PCSing overseas-must sell. Low miles on new engine. $5,500. (501) 240-7430

2003 TOYOTA Tundra SR5 ext. cab. black, auto, power windows, door, cd, cass., gray int., new tires, 45,000 mi., (850) 398-3749 or (501) 255-9830 $14,900 obo.

1999 MAZDA 626 CS, V6, auto., pwr. sunroof, leather, looks and runs perfect. $4,000. 681-6324

2006 KIA Sedona LX Minivan. Blue, 30,000 mi., & great condition. $10,000. (501) 542-4018.

1985 HONDA Prelude, red, 120,000 miles, 27 mpg., Runs great! Interior rough, new stereo, have receipts & title. $900. (501) 766-4475

4 MICHELIN TIRES 235R70x16, xterrain, already mounted on Ford rims for Ford Explorer. Ex. Cond. $1,000 value for $400. 259-8828.

1997 HONDA Civic, Red & Black, Custom, 5-spd., PW, PL, Sunroof, Brand New Rims & Tires, Stage 2 performance clutch, 160,000 mi., $5,000 obo., William (501) 366-1470 To see it, lots of money invested, must sell

2001 HARLEY Davidson Electra-glide, electronic cruise and many extras, $11,000. 730-3583

2006 Pontiac Vibe, 21,600 mi., great condition, $12,000. 240-9146

1996 GMC Suburban 1500 SLT, Vortex V8, power everything, runs excellent, looks great, sofa leather seats, 130,000 miles, $4,995. 612-2865

1990 AUDI Turbo 200, power everything, pearl w/black leather int., sunroof, great car, 5 cyl., only $2,495. 612-2865

88 CADILLAC El Dorado Birattz, all orig., 104,000 miles, 4.5, exc. cond., collectors car. A steal at $6,000. 612-2865

93 MAZDA 626, P/W, auto., 4 cyl., sun roof, new trans., super clean, 122,000 miles, $2,495. 612-2865

2005 TOYOTA RAV 4, FWD, 5 cyl., auto., silver, non-smoker, L Pkg., garaged. Like new condition, 15,600 miles, 29 mpg. $17,200. obo. (501) 241-6802

1999 TOYOTA Corolla, gold paint. approx., 130,000 mi., 4 dr., great cond., engine runs, like new, never had any problems w/engine. Has gotten up to 35 mpg., plays CD, MP3, WMA. Must sell! (210) 381-6401 after 3 pm., Mon.-Fri., anytime on weekend.

2004 Silverado 4-dr. 2500 LS, $16,500 obo., truck has 69,300 mi., charcoal grey, Flow master True Dual Exhaust, KNN cold air intake system, 16x8 FOOSE wheels. Edgar (501) 680-7458

2000 CHEVROLET S-10 EXTREME SHORT BED SINGLE CAB. DRIVES BUT HAS PROBLEMS. $2,000, COME TAKE A LOOK, bRANDON (210) 748-6283.

1994 CHEVROLET Full Size Blazer (2 door Tahoe/Yukon), 143,000 miles, no leaks, chrome wheels, GREAT shape. $5,000 obo. Derek @ 605-8304 (dpower922@aol.com)

1996 CHEVROLET Ext. cab Z71, Blue, loaded, billet grill w/clear lens, new A/C system, new trans., toolbox, clean truck. $4,500 obo. (501) 681-7188

2006 CHEVROLET Impala LT 3.5L, black w/gray int., 45,000 mi., new tires, On-star, XM, MP3 player, tinted windows, ext. 75,000 mi. warranty, gets 31 MPG, $14,000. (501) 681-7188

RECREATIONAL VEHICLES

Harley Davidson 2003 Fatboy Anniversary Ed, black/silver, 3,900 miles. $14,500 (501) 240-2443

Larson 2002 190LXI ski boat, 4.3 Volvo, 190HP, 60 hours. $13,900 (501) 240-2443

1994 SUZUKI Intruder VS1400 Motorcycle, New Tires, New Rear Brake Rotor, New Seat, Windshield, Brand new custom blue paint w/ghost flames. $3,000.(501)743-6575

'06 YAMAHA 4x4 Kodiak 450. ONLY 30 hrs. used. Excellent/mint condition. 5 yr. Transferable Manufacture warranty. $5,900 obo. Thomas @ (501) 681-0037.

2004 HONDA 400 EX ATV, low hours, well-maintained, yellow, $2,800. (863) 521-1558, Mike.

20' STRATOS dual console V hull, loaded, low hrs., 200 Merc. trolling motor & trailer, all in good cond. $8,500, (870) 247-1177

17' MONARK Bass Boat, refurbished 5 yrs. ago, 2 live wells, 50 hp motor, trolling motor, fish finder & much more! Priced to sell! $3,500 obo email: arkansascrawler@hotmail.com (252) 767-2017

2006 FRONTIER RV Explorer 265, camper's dream, sleeps 7, 16' awning, many upgrades, $13,900. 240-4367

LOTS & ACREAGE

3 acre tree shaded lots. Chimney Rock Estates, Beebe. Paved streets, city water, Beebe schools. Buyer's normal closing costs paid. 5.5% financing available. No money down to qualified buyers. Call (501) 843-2774 or (501) 605-3847.

HOUSES FOR RENT

For Rent: Cabot. Available June 1st. $1,150/month plus security deposit. Pets on approval. 1,950 sq. ft., 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, fireplace, bonus room, covered patio, 2 car garage, fenced yard. No smoking. Contact Walt or Diann at (618) 549-5705 or wtomczak@earthlinik.net

Beautiful 4 Bedroom, 2 1/2 Bath home on corner lot in exclusive Gap Creek, Sherwood. 2,550 sq. ft., office, bonus room, jacuzzi in master, tornado shelter, lots of space. $1,575 rent. (501) 833-0453

For Rent in Ward: 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, duplex, all electric, washer & dryer included. 1 year lease required. $650 month, $300 deposit. Please call (501) 941-2726 or (501) 258-8960

FOR RENT: nice 2, 3 & 4 Bedroom Mobile Homes on large lots in quiet safe park, close to LRAFB. New carpet and appliances, community pool. Starting at $300 per month plus deposit. HUD accepting. Call today and get TWO WEEKS FREE RENT. (501) 835-3450.

(2) 2 Bedroom Houses. Country living only 5 minutes to back gate. One: chain-link fence & pets allowed. Other: new hardwood floors. Both: ceiling fans & storage buildings. $400 rent + deposit (501) 837-0264, (501) 837-0268, (501) 988-5586.

Sherwood: #21 Lee Oaks. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 1,800 sq. ft., double garage, fenced yard,. No pets. 4800 month. (501) 834-1251.

Vilonia: Dove Creek, 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 car garage, brick, 3 years old, kitchen island, fenced. Available 5/17/08, $850 month, $750 deposit. (501) 232-4560

Brand new duplex for rent in Ward: 2 Bedroom, 2 Bath, all electric, washer & dryer included. 1 year lease required. $650 month, $300 deposit. Please call (501) 941-2726 or (501) 258-8960

Beautiful West LR House for Rent! 1,400 Lansing. 4 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2,300 sq. ft., 3 years old, dining room, large den, large master suite. Must see! $1,800 month, $900 deposit. Call Lana (501) 309-3668

Cabot: 3 Bedroom, 1 1/2 Bath, 1,200 sq. ft., carport, has all appliances. Near Central Elementary. $725 month, $500 deposit. No inside pets. 425-7138

Gravel Ridge/Jacksonville: 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, large living room, large game room, fireplace, fenced yard. $800 month, $800 deposit. 1 year lease required. 31 North Valley Drive, 979-285-8464

House to Rent: 3 Bedroom, 1 1/2 Bath, central heat & air, washer/dryer connections. No pets. $500 deposit, $700 rent. (501) 843-3383

Mobile Home, 14x70, newly remodeled, 2 bedroom, 2 bath, on 1 acre, Cabot Schools. $500 per month, deposit required. Call (501) 266-0045 or (501) 605-7200

Mark Avenue, Sherwood. 3 Bedroom, 1 1/2 Bath, approximately 1,200 sq. ft., single car garage, sun room, fenced backyard, quiet neighborhood. Excellent condition. $110,500. Call Diane at 912-4343.

HOUSES FOR SALE

FSBO - Beautiful 2007 builder home. Cabot, new subdivision with lake. 1/3 acre, corner lot, 2351 Lakeshore Lane. 2,390 sq. ft., 3/4 Bedroom, 2 Bath + bonus room. $240. Call (501) 563-0420. Visit 2351lakeshore.com for more information.

Beebe area. 2,164 sq. ft. New Home on 3 acre lot, 3 Bedroom, 2.5 Bath. Large bonus room or 4th Bedroom. Electronic security system, gas log fireplace, 2 car garage. Large deck professionally landscaped, paved street. Reduced Price $229,500. To view home, call (501) 843-2774 or (501) 605-3847.

Gravel Ridge: 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, bonus room, 1,604 sq. ft., quiet cul-de-sac. Many updates, new kitchen counters & appliances, new roof in 2007. 10 minutes to Base. OPEN HOUSE 5/18, MLS #10188466, $123,500. (501) 952-8137

New home for sale by builder. Very nice 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, stainless steel appliances, fenced yard & many extras. 1,330 sq. ft., 402 Boston, Graham Settlement Subdivision, $135,000. (501) 982-9440

4 miles to Base. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, $134,000. Option to buy furnished. House, furniture & appliances - one year old. Quality throughout. Energy efficient. Landscaped. Privacy fence. Storage building. Call (501) 241-0255 or cell (501) 366-5853

Gravel Ridge, 4 Creek Ridge Ct. FSBO. 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 1,718 sq. ft., wood & tile floors, lots of updates, large fenced yard, cul-de-sac, quiet neighborhood, close to Airbase, $131,500. (501) 425-1323

FSBO: 3 Bedroom, 2 Bath, 2 car garage, eat-in kitchen, comes with washer & dryer. 1,269 sq. ft., 5 miles from LRAFB. $129,000. 201 Franklin St., Jacksonville. Contact Ebonie for details (501) 680-9086

TOP STORY >> Chief earns Guard�s �Red� Erwin award

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 19 May 2008 18:05:00 +0000

By Master Sgt. Bob Oldham
189th Airlift Wing Public Affairs

An Arkansas Air National Guard loadmaster was named the Air National Guard�s Henry E. �Red� Erwin Outstanding Career Aviator of the Year award, Senior NCO category, for calendar year 2007.

Chief Master Sgt. Richard W. Merriman, formerly with the 154th Training Squadron and now assigned to the 189th Operations Group, received the award based on his accomplishments, leadership and self improvement.

During 2007, the chief voluntarily deployed with the 39th Airlift Squadron at Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, to support flying operations in Operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom as well as operations in the Horn of Africa, flying 80 combat sorties and 23 combat support sorties, according to his nomination package.

He also flew 180 missions in support of Air Force and Air National Guard missions, Lt. Col. Greg Myers, 154th Training Squadron commander, wrote in the nomination package.

The chief also provided formal instructor training to newly assigned squadron instructors, ensuring new loadmasters understood the training syllabi and unit operating procedures.

Due to his leadership and expertise, he was hand picked to fill the vacant operations group standardization and evaluation loadmaster position.

On April 12, 1945, Erwin, an Air Force staff sergeant at the time and radio operator, was dropping phosphorus smoke bombs through a chute in the B-29�s floor on a raid of a chemical plant north of Tokyo, according to an Air Force fact sheet. Back then, it wasn�t uncommon for aircrew members to have several additional jobs in flight.

The fuse of a smoke bomb malfunctioned, �igniting the phosphorus, burning at 1,100 degrees.�

The canister �flew back up the chute and into Sergeant Erwin�s face, blinding him, searing off one ear and obliterating his nose. Smoke immediately filled the aircraft, making it impossible for the pilot to see the instrument panel,� according to the fact sheet.

Sergeant Erwin managed to carry the bomb to the cockpit and threw it out a window. The pilot was able to pull the aircraft out of a dive at about 300 feet above the water.

For his efforts that day, he received the Medal of Honor.

In 1997, the Air Force created the Henry E. Erwin Outstanding Enlisted Aircrew Member of the Year Award. It�s presented annually to an Airman, NCO and senior NCO in the active-duty or reserve forces. It goes to members of the flight engineering, loadmaster, air surveillance and related career fields.

It is only the second Air Force award named for an enlisted person.

COMMENTARY >> Planes, trains and automobiles: Educating mobility warriors

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 19 May 2008 18:05:00 +0000

By Lt. Col. Nathan Allerheiligen
314th Airlift Wing director of readiness

Creating Combat Airlifters is only part of the Air Mobility community�s larger mission. We must also educate our brightest officers and NCOs in the higher arts of mobility management.

Far beyond just executing tactical airlift missions, the nation�s great mobility machine is powered and managed by US Transportation Command and the Defense Logistics Agency to provide men, equipment, and material to support combatant commanders worldwide, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, in peaceful, hostile and open combat environments.
In order to create that cadre of elite mobility warriors, the Air Mobility Command has partnered with Air Force Institute of Technology to create advanced education programs targeting mobility management, logistics operations, and supply chain theory.

The Advanced Study of Air Mobility program at the U.S. Air Force Expeditionary Center is an intermediate developmental education program that provides a masters of air mobility during a 13-month long program for select Majors.
In addition to an AFIT accredited advanced degree, the 12 to 16 students receive briefings from combatant and major command commanders, tours of all unified combatant commands and interface with the premier companies in the mobility and supply-chain management fields.

Selection for ASAM follows the IDE selection cycle and process.

NCOs have recently been added to the pool of educated mobility warriors through the Enlisted-to-AFIT program.
This year, six NCOs were selected to receive advanced degrees from AFIT, two of them in Logistics Management.
The annual selection process begins in February with results announced by early April.

Continual education is at the core of any profession. Ensuring that Airmen obtain advanced degrees is a critical requirement to keeping our nation�s mobility machine running smoothly and efficiently.

Although the highlighted programs are extremely competitive, there are many other methods to obtain advanced degrees.
Go to http://www.afit.edu in order to research the many opportunities provided by the Air Force.

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Remembering fallen heroes

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 19 May 2008 18:04:00 +0000

By Chief Master Sgt. Brooke McLean
314th Airlift Wing command chief

Over the course of this week, we have paused to remember two Little Rock AFB fallen heroes who paid the last full measure for our freedom and national security since the start of the Global War on Terrorism.

Staff Sgt. Dustin Peters and Staff Sgt. John Self were killed in action in Iraq while not only protecting our way of life but creating a better one for another nation. Our hearts are heavy for the void they left behind but we are grateful for their brave service and the painful sacrifice paid by their families. When asked whom to send, they answered: �Here am I. Send me.�

Our nation�s history is full of ordinary citizens who responded in similar fashion. For this reason, we pause on the last Monday of May and celebrate Memorial Day. This holiday was first officially proclaimed on May 5, 1868, by General John Logan, national commander of the Grand Army of the Republic, in his General Order No. 11 and was first observed on May 30, 1868, when flowers were placed on the graves of Union and Confederate soldiers at Arlington National Cemetery.

More recently, in an effort to help educate and remind Americans of the true meaning of Memorial Day, the "National Moment of Remembrance" resolution was passed in December of 2000 which asks that at 3 p.m. local time, for all Americans "To voluntarily and informally observe in their own way a moment of remembrance and respect, pausing from whatever they are doing for a moment of silence or listening to Taps."

Let us never forget our comrades-in-arms who have gone before us and please remember those who are currently deployed.

VIEW FROM THE TOP >> Back to basics

noreply@blogger.com (LRAFB Drop Zone) — Mon, 19 May 2008 18:00:00 +0000

By Col. Mark Vlahos
314th Airlift Wing vice commander

Once again, congratulations to both AMC and AETC Team Little Rock members on a job well done during the operational readiness inspection.

Now that the ORI is complete, we need to get re-focused on the basics: mission, safe operations, timely performance reports, decorations and awards, and family. These basics can be summed-up in three words � mission, people, and family.
Safe flight and ground operations is critical to our mission.

Operational risk management processes allow us to infuse safety in everything we do from aircraft maintenance to the C-130 aircrew in the air. Flying is multifaceted and requires many people combining their individual expertise to accomplish the mission. ORM is the one common discipline that every member of the team must practice to accomplish the mission successfully and safely. ORM and safety is especially important in our training environment. Always remember, safe and effective flight and ground operations and training are Job One!

History has shown that we lose the most Airmen in off-duty accidents during the 101 critical days of summer. We all need to give this special focus as we head into this timeframe. Anybody who has heard me speak on the subject knows that my bumper sticker is: It's at the tactical level of leadership that lives are saved. This is true in combat, at home station, and off-duty. Commanders and supervisors, encourage your people to get out this summer and have fun, however remind them as Chief McLean did in his article last week, ". . . make sure you take your brain with you."

A key part of rewarding and taking care of our people, is timely performance reports, decorations, and awards. Timeliness is important, not just because the boss is tracking rates, but because we always want our Airmen to meet a promotion board with a current report on top--there is no excuse for not doing this! With regard to decorations ... get them done before Airmen PCS out -- pin'em where they win'em!

Make sure you and those you supervise take some much earned leave to unwind. Spend time with your families, they most likely need a much deserved break also. Our families are our first line of support. Take care of them and keep them strong because the role they play in our lives and AF is critical.

Nothing I've said here today is new, much of this is leadership 101. I do feel it is important to review the basics from time to time -- basics set the foundation for doctrine, core values, and help us strive to maintain a standard of excellence everyday! Thank you for all that you do to keep this nation strong. Combat Airlift!