Space Orbital July 7, 2022 by Colorado Springs Indy & Business Journal

VOLUME 2, #27 • THURSDAY, JULY 07, 2022

SPACE

RBITAL PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE | SCHRIEVER SPACE FORCE BASE

A TIME FOR PRIDE Airmen and Guardians from Space Base Delta 1 participate in the Pride Month

U.S. Space Force photo by Senior Airman Brooke Wise

Airmen and Guardians from Space Base Delta 1 participate in a “Run for your Rainbow” 5K at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, June 10, 2022. The 5K was one of many activities SBD1 hosted to celebrate Pride Month.

Vosler celebrates the first ever graduating class The graduation ceremony marks a moment in history as the graduates set an example for future leaders.

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Connecting from the Arctic Circle

News ......................................... 1-10 Front Range Bulletin .....................12 Crossword .....................................14 Classifieds .....................................15

Connecting from the Arctic Circle By Ashley George, Public Affairs Chief Space Base Delta 1 Public Affairs

THULE AIR BASE, Greenland — Calling family members, sending emails, and downloading games and entertainment are a part of most peoples’ daily life. However, until recently, personnel at Thule Air Base, Greenland, could not easily enjoy those luxuries due to a slow and intermittent commercial internet connection. Thule AB is the northernmost U.S. military installation, situated roughly 1,000 miles from the North Pole. It is a small installation, with a 500-person community made up of military, Danish, and Greenlandic members, and no roads to surrounding villages. As one can imagine, access to the internet is vital to the morale of all those living at Thule – that is why Space Base Delta 1 and the 821st Space Base Group made upgrading the connection a priority. In June, the 821st SBG was successful in upgrading their commercial internet by accessing Low Earth Orbit satellites, thanks in large part to the Air Force Research Laboratory. “Today, with LEO connectivity, the men and women living at this outpost are enjoying video conferencing, streaming, and even interactive games,” said Dr. Brian Beal, Air Force Research Laboratory principal aerospace engineer. “The Thule LEO network was designed, integrated and installed by Hughes engineers using capacity from the OneWeb constellation, which spans four antennas and delivers almost 14 terabits of data per month. More than half of the OneWeb satellites are already in orbit, delivering full coverage of the northern regions spanning the Arctic, Alaska, Greenland and the U.K..” This upgrade was highly anticipated. Due to limited commercial connectivity, not only did Thule members have issues talking to loved ones back home, but actions such as taking online classes and updating personal devices proved near impossible at times. “Incoming folks rely on their devices for various

means of life, so when they get here and the internet doesn’t work, it can be a hard hit,” said Lt. Col. Gavin Brost, 821st Support Squadron commander. Living on Thule takes ingenuity, as some months are spent in complete darkness, while other months are spent in constant daylight. Also, the average temperature during winter is -12 degrees Fahrenheit and the nearest village is 60 miles away… by dog sled. Establishing commercial internet capability was not an easy undertaking, but well worth the outcome. “There are logistical challenges of getting material up here, such as our weather, short-port season, and environmental considerations. But, U.S. Space Force photo by Ashley George AFRL made it happen MSgt Miles Christensen and MSgt Craig Kortan, both with the 821st Support Squadron, Thule Air Base, Greenland, transfer comand I think everyone here mercial internet terminals to their final installation site. Thule AB is the northernmost U.S. military installation, situated roughly is extremely grateful,” 1,000 miles from the North Pole, with a 500-person community made up of military, Danish, and Greenlandic members, and no roads to surrounding villages. said Tech. Sgt. Vanessa Alonzo, 821st Support Squadron Cyber Systems noncommissioned officer where connectivity is the fastest, to download content in charge. for their game consoles and cell phones. The 821st Support Squadron set up two cyber cafés “Overall this has improved the quality of life for not where members can enjoy a multitude of online ac- only our members living here, but for their families tivities and build camaraderie. Members also now back in the states,” said Brost. “Connectivity is somehave the ability to bring their own devices to the café, thing we all take for granted… until you don’t have it.”

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A time for pride U.S. Space Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kaitlin Castillo

Airmen and Guardians from Space Base Delta 1 participate in the Pride Month resource fair at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, June 23, 2022. Supportive organizations and resources from Space Base Delta 1 such as the LGBTQIA+ pride club, the Schriever Chapel, Equal Opportunity office and many more were showcased at the fair.

By Senior Airman Brooke Wise Space Base Delta 1 Public Affairs

PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. — Pride month began with a newsletter highlighting the meaning of LGBTQIA+, military history, gender and milestones in the U.S. LGBTQ+ community. Activities included SBD 1’s first LGBTQ+ inclusive 5K color run, food trucks, games and a resource fair highlighting critical services such as mental health, diversity and inclusion, equal opportunity, faith-based, a pride club, and more. The month concluded with the ‘Moments of Pride’ forum which brought people together to share

stories, celebrate accomplishments, an opportunity to learn more about the LGBTQ+ community, and build connections. “Diversity and inclusion events are tremendously important to building an inclusive culture and improving community and team engagement,” said U.S. Air Force Capt. Tatiana Gonzalez, 21st Medical Squadron, force medical operations flight commander. “It helps show that the communities are valued, accepted, and have the same opportunities despite race, ethnicity, gender, sexuality and any other unique group’s differences. These events empower people by appreciating and respecting differences and gaining valuable insight, perspectives, and experiences for all.”

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A TIME FOR PRIDE

U.S. Space Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kaitlin Castillo

U.S. Air Force Lt. Col. Kevin Hudson, Space Base Delta 1 Chaplain, gives a speech during the Moments of Pride forum at Peterson Space Force Base, June 30, 2022. Hudson spoke about the struggles of being a gay man in the church and coming to terms with his sexuality and religion.

U.S. Space Force photo by Airman 1st Class Kaitlin Castillo

Space Base Delta 1 Diversity and Inclusion office hosts a resource fair in honor of Pride Month at Schriever Space Force Base, Colorado, June 23, 2022. Supportive organizations and resources from Space Base Delta 1 such as the LGBTQIA+ pride club, the Schriever Chapel, the Equal Opportunity office and many more were showcased at the fair.

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Schriever SFB welcomes new space squadron, commander

U.S. Space Force photo by Dennis Rogers

U.S. Space Force Col. Matthew Holston, Space Delta 8 - Satellite Communications and Navigational Warfare commander, offers remarks during the 53rd Space Operations Squadron activation ceremony at The Hub on Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, June 29, 2022. Holston introduced U.S. Space Force Lt. Col. Susan Rogers, who assumed command of the squadron directly after its activation.

U.S. Space Force Col. Matthew Holston, Space Delta 8 - Satellite Communications and Navigational Warfare commander passes the newly-activated 53rd Space Operations Squadron colors to U.S. Space Force Lt. Col Susan Rogers, 53rd SOPS commander, during the assumption of command ceremony at The Hub on Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, June 29, 2022. Rogers, the first commander of the 53rd SOPS, was one of 14 U.S. Army officers selected to help establish the U.S. Space Force and was one of the first four U.S. Army officers to transfer into the branch.

By Emily Klinkenborg, Public Affairs Specialist Space Base Delta 1 Public Affairs

PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. — The 53rd Space Operations Squadron unfurled their colors during an activation ceremony at The Hub on Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, June 29, 2022. The activation of 53rd SOPS, assigned under Space Delta 8 – Satellite Communications and Navigational Warfare, signified the transfer of the 53rd Signal Battalion from a U.S. Army unit to the newest space operation squadron in the U.S. Space Force. U.S. Space Force Col. Matthew Holston, DEL 8 commander, offered remarks as the presiding official during the ceremony. “It’s exciting to be here on this historic day and it truly has been a long time coming,” said Holston. “We could not pull this off as an individual service - this is enabled by the integration with the United States Army.” The unit’s heritage can be traced back 81 years to

World War II as one of the oldest operational battalions in the U.S. Army. 53rd SOPS is the only unit in the DoD that conducts payload and transmission control for the defense satellite communications system and wideband global SATCOM satellite constellations. The activation of the 53rd SOPS is a critical step in the DoD’s efforts of consolidating all military satellite communication functions under a single military service for the first time. “Over the course of the next few months we will begin the deliberate transition of Army wideband payload control and SATCOM-management personnel, as well as the wideband payload control mission, to the [U.S.] Space Force,” said Holston. U.S. Space Force Senior Master Sgt. Raymond Flores, 53rd SOPS senior enlisted leader, revealed the colors and raised the guidon initiating the assumption of command ceremony for the newly activated squadron. Service members donned their new unit’s patch as

Holston passed the colors to U.S. Space Force Lt. Col. Susan Rogers, entrusting her to lead as the first commander of the 53rd SOPS. Rogers was one of 14 U.S. Army officers selected to help establish the U.S. Space Force and was one of the first four U.S. Army officers to transfer into the branch. “I want to say thank you to the men and women of the 53rd Space Operations Squadron – Soldiers, Guardians, civilians and contractors - you are the heart and soul of the unit,” said Rogers. “I am excited and humbled for the opportunity to lead this fantastic team.” The 53rd Signal Battalion, formally assigned to the Space Operations Brigade under the U.S. Army Space and Missile Defense Command, is postured to retire their colors in 2023. “This is the beginning of our journey and our legacy,” said Rogers. “Stay true to your values, trust in one another and continue to write the story of the 53rd Space Operations Squadron.”

Vosler celebrates the first ever all-Guardian SNCO graduating class By Airman 1st Class Aaron Edwards Space Base Delta 1 Public Affairs

PETERSON SPACE FORCE BASE, Colo. — The first all-Guardian senior noncommissioned officer class graduated from the Vosler NCO Academy during a ceremony at the Hub on Peterson Space Force Base, June 30, 2022. The graduation ceremony marks a significant moment in U.S. Space Force history as the graduates set an example for future USSF leaders. “This room is filled with some of the most influential and important human beings in U.S. Space Force history,” said Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force Roger A. Towberman. Towberman went on to recognize the 6

July 7, 2022

Airman and Guardians for their hard work and dedication. “As a service, we don’t do this by ourselves,” said Towberman. “For all the Airmen that are part of this ecosystem, and there are many, [the U.S. Space Force] couldn’t do this without you.” U.S. Air Force Maj. Gen. Shawn N. Bratton, Commander of the Space Training and Readiness Command also addressed the audience. “The new things that we do every day and every week for the past several years continue to stack up and today is another milestone,” said Bratton. “You can’t let this become accepted and normal that there is a [historic milestone] every day -- we’ve got to celebrate each and every one of these.” Peterson Space Force Base

U.S. Space Force photo by Airman 1st Class Aaron Edwards

U.S. Space Force senior non-commissioned officers pose for a photo with Chief Master Sgt. of the Space Force Roger A. Towberman after their graduation from the Vosler NCO Academy at Peterson Space Force Base, Colorado, June 30, 2022. This class was the first-ever all Space Force SNCO class to graduate from the VNCOA.

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Air Force hosts service chiefs to discuss JADC2 By Staff Writer Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

WASHINGTON (AFNS) — Reemphasizing a critical joint partnership in all-domain warfare, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. CQ Brown, Jr. met with his fellow service chiefs from the Army, Navy, Marine Corps and Space Force June 24 to share advancements and discuss the way forward as the services work together to continue cultivating common ground on Joint All-Domain Command and Control. The meeting focused on the Defense Department’s progress and projections for JADC2 in order to identify opportunities for the services to align their developmental efforts and to identify the obstacles that may frustrate moving forward to achieve the objectives of JADC2 in support of the joint force. The senior leaders shared their views on areas of common agreement as well as areas where divergence in individual service efforts is appropriate. In this discussion, each of the services identified several areas on which they must focus in order to realize the intent behind JADC2 – to create and maintain a persistent connection in order to share data across the joint force. Additionally, after a year of baseline activities in support of the JADC2 Strategy and Implementation Plan, the chiefs discussed the need for a more developed Concept of Operations, or CONOPS, for a future joint fight against a peer competitor, which is currently fraught with challenges when forces become disconnected from global communications networks. The creation of a CONOPS for command and control of the joint force is an essential step forward in creating decision advantage. “As the Air Force develops (Advanced Battle Management System) in our effort to achieve information and decision

advantage by delivering relevant data, information and capabilities to warfighters at all echelons, we must work together with our sister services and the DoD to ensure we connect our sensors and platforms and share our data as part of a joint force,” Brown said. “Meetings like the one we held today are important to ensure we continue to stay aligned when it comes to JADC2 – where we are collectively and where we are going.” Space is not only an all-domain warfare enabler but also an increasingly active warfighting domain. In today’s talks, Chief of Space Operations Gen. John W. “Jay” Raymond outlined his Guardians’ most recent contributions to the effort to sense, make sense and act in space and throughout the joint battlespace. “Our ability to sense from the space domain, transport and make sense of data, and then get that data into the hands of our joint warfighting partners on land, in the air and at sea, is what the Space Force delivers to JADC2,” said Raymond. “Space capabilities underpin modern warfare.” Emphasizing the importance of JADC2 in the Marine Corps’ Stand-In Forces concept, Commandant of the Marine Corps Gen. David H. Berger added, “JADC2 means the ability to move data and information in support of the joint force. It means we will improve decision-making processes toward a faster, more effective kill chain and ensure our Marines can best support the joint force to win in all domains.” As Army Futures Command prepares for the third iteration of Project Convergence, their annual JADC2 experimentation and demonstration event, Army Chief of Staff Gen. James C. McConville expressed his thoughts on the way ahead for sensor-to-shooter technologies to his fellow service chiefs: “In large-scale combat operations, overmatch belongs to

the side with decision dominance. Project Convergence is helping us figure out how to connect the right lethal system, the right shooter, the right arrow to get the lethal effects that we need in seconds rather than minutes or in some cases even hours. Having the joint force, allies, and partners involved helps us see ourselves – helps us remember that we never fight alone. That’s why we’re developing JADC2 as a joint force, and I always add a “C” for CJADC2, because we don’t just fight as a joint force, we fight alongside our allies and partners.” Chief of Naval Operations Adm. Mike M. Gilday also highlighted the importance of all the services being on the same page when it comes to all-domain battle management and command and control. “Project Overmatch is the Navy’s contribution to JADC2, so as we develop the networks, infrastructure, data architecture, tools and analytics to enable sustained maritime dominance, it’s critical the Navy remains in sync with our joint teammates,” Gilday said. “Opportunities like this – to sit in the same room and hash things out with my fellow service chiefs – are indispensable to the progress of such high-priority initiatives.” The gathering of the military’s top uniformed leaders to align and synchronize on all aspects of JADC2 emphasizes the high level of importance DoD’s senior leaders place on joint interoperability, timely data-sharing as well as unified and ubiquitous and command and control throughout all warfighting domains. “We cannot afford to lose a day in this effort,” Brown said. “Speed, agility and resilience are essential to decision-making and battle management in future highly contested environments. The progress we make in JADC2 will be determinate in our success as a joint force.”

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Leading ‘Team 10’:

Col. Christopher Leonard reports on his first year as commander of the 10th Air Base Wing By Staff Writer U.S. Air Force Academy Strategic Communications

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo. — An Air Force Academy grad and self-described “farm boy” from Wisconsin said life as commander of the 10th Air Base Wing during the last year has been an “unbelievable opportunity.” “Returning to the Academy has been a great experience,” said Col. Christopher Leonard, a 1997 Academy graduate. “My family has been happy and excited to be here and it’s surreal to be back.” The 10th ABW is the Academy’s host unit, responsible for medical services provided to 65,000 beneficiaries; security for an 18,000-acre installation; personnel administration; infrastructure; and logistic services across the base and the school’s 4,000 cadets. “The work of our Total Force Airmen, the services we provide cadets, service members, families and beneficiaries, cannot be overstated,” Leonard said. “The wing is fundamental to providing the broad support of the Academy’s mission of developing leaders of character.” Now the wing’s top officer for a year, Leonard’s efforts are centered on developing plans and programs promoting the Academy’s mission and longevity. “Step one, for me, has been establishing a mindset of teamwork where each person understands where their teammates are coming from and respects their expertise,” he said. “Serving at the 10th Air Base Wing is much more than just about what we do – it’s about what we should do, including being role models for cadets. Cadets need to see a professional role model when they interact with anyone from the wing, including myself. When cadets talk to anyone in the wing, I want them to see positive character they can aspire to.” The colonel said the wing plays an important role in national defense by contributing to the success of the National Defense Strategy, which addresses long term strategic threats. “Critical from my perspective is the acknowledgment of an increasingly complex security environment,” he said. “That complexity demands even better leaders in the future.” Leonard said the Academy meets that challenge with a long list of “initiatives and improvements,” the vast majority of which come with a mission or a medical support component. “We meet that challenge by remaining adaptive and flexible to support across all mission elements,” he said.

A Mindset of Teamwork

The wing’s mission is to “forge generations of leaders through world class medical and mission support,” and its vision statement is to “maximize partnerships in service and support to the Air Force’s and Space Force’s premier leadership institution.” Leonard said his priorities, designed to inspire his team to “stay the course” through any challenge, are teamwork, proactive planning and customer experience. “These priorities are grounded in living honorably, preparing for future conflict, driving innovation and agile integrated operations, and establishing a mindset of teamwork where each Total Force Airmen understands that the wing is fundamental to the broader support of 8

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U.S. Space Force courtesy photo

U.S. Air Force Col. Christopher Leonard, commander of the 10th Air Base Wing – the U.S. Air Force Academy’s “host unit” – has been in his position since June 2020. A family man, avid runner and Academy graduate, Leonard said “returning to the Academy has been an unbelievable opportunity.”

the Academy’s mission of developing leaders of character,” he said. Commanding the wing has been Leonard’s first assignment at the Academy after graduating from the school with bachelor’s in civil engineering. He’s earned a master’s in engineering and environmental management, graduated Air War College and Army Command and General Staff College, and was a National Defense Fellow at Harvard-Kennedy Law School’s Belfer Center for Science and International Affairs. His selection to lead the wing occurred when Pentagon leaders and elected officials were still coping with the uncertainties of the global coronavirus pandemic. “Safely and effectively dealing with the challenges of the pandemic led to improvements in the services we provide for cadets and beneficiaries, including installing “Telehealth” - internet-based medical services – he said. “The wing and installation, as a whole, has overcome the challenges presented by the pandemic and in many ways, improved our processes. “I don’t think we’ve seen the last variant, but the wing is ready to adjust and do what it knows how to do keep the base population, and by extension our host community of Colorado Springs, safe,” Leonard said. Leonard rates the partnership between Academy and Colorado Springs as “excellent,” high marks based on a collegiate and congenial relationship between local civic leaders and senior officials at the base. Leonard looks forward to fostering those relationships over the next year. “One of our focuses is restoring face-to-face meetings with local civic leaders and organizations that were difficult to maintain during the pandemic,” he said. “I’d like to do that with our local military and civilian leaders and supporting agencies.”

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Leonard praised the Military Affairs Council, the Defense Mission Task Force and the Chamber of Commerce’s Economic Development Council for their advocacy of the Academy. “We’re very fortunate to have the support of our community and it’s not taken for granted,” he said. “I hope to build on that.”

A ‘Spectacular’ Career

On duty, he might be “Colonel Leonard” but at home he’s “dad.” My kids keep me grounded,” he said. “No one gives more honest feedback than a 9 or 12 year old,” he said with a laugh. Leonard’s said his family: wife, Erin, and their daughter and son, represent the foundation of any success he’s experienced. “They’re everything,” he said. “Erin is involved with our military community and my daughter follows in that.” “Dad” enjoys outdoor activities with the family, playing cribbage with his daughter and bicycling with his son. He’s an avid runner who makes sure to put in the miles before work. Leonard shrugs off the idea that much of the wing’s efforts go unnoticed by the general public. “I like knowing that the 10th Air Base Wing is so good at what it does that it can be taken for granted,” he said. “The Wing is reliable and we are relentless in our efforts to support the success of others. I know we are appreciated by our teammates across the mission elements.” Service of others is what attracted Leonard to the Academy and the Air Force. “It was a natural fit,” he said. “I always had the desire to serve and be a part of something larger than myself. The Academy continues to check that box in a rather spectacular fashion.”

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Kendall talks PTSD, mental health with medical leaders

HIRING EVENT JULY 12

U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Isabelle Churchill

Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall, speaks with Joint Base Andrews senior leaders to learn about mental health care during PTSD Awareness Month at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland., June 24, 2022. Kendall and the medical team discussed the importance of normalizing mental health care, and the ways the Air Force can improve the systems in place for service members and their families.

By Staff Writer Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

JOINT BASE ANDREWS, Md. (AFNS) — Secretary of the Air Force Frank Kendall met with Air Force Medical Service leaders to discuss the Department of the Air Force’s approach for prioritizing post-traumatic stress disorder care and support during a visit to Joint Base Andrews June 24. Air Force Deputy Surgeon General Maj. Gen. John J. DeGoes joined Kendall in meeting with medics from the 316th Medical Group this PTSD Awareness month to explain ongoing initiatives and new policies aimed at improving access to mental health care resources. “We are piloting a targeted mental health care tactic at several bases. We are triaging and directing members to the appropriate support and care they need. Many people assume every patient needs a mental health appointment, but that is not always the case,” DeGoes said. “Some benefit from group therapy, while others may need a chaplain or a Military and Family Life Counselor. As a result, we are reducing wait times for mental health appointments and increasing access to all available mental health resources.” Learning the necessary skills to manage stressors and knowing when to reach out for help are key to managing PTSD. In an effort to bring care closer to service members and families, the AFMS is expanding its Operational Support Team concept where providers rotate through units. sfspaceorbital.com

Within the remotely piloted aircraft community, PTSD prevention efforts include emotional intelligence training and strategies to manage the stressors that come with their unique operational environment. “The most effective treatment has been trauma-focused therapies where providers use different approaches to help the patient process through the traumatic event,” said Lt. Col. Catherine Callender, deputy, Air Force Director of Psychological Health, Air Force Medical Readiness Agency. “Prolonged exposure therapy is an example; providers gradually help patients face the memories they have been avoiding and address thoughts that may be contributing to difficulties.” The DAF continuously works to ensure all members diagnosed with PTSD receive the latest and most effective evidence-based care. Once diagnosed, up to 95% of those who receive, and complete treatment no longer meet the criteria for the disorder. “Mental health care is health care, and the old misconception about a diagnosis being the end of someone’s career is outdated thanks to advancing support, medical research, and evolving policies,” Kendall said. “Every Airman and Guardian is critical to our mission and we need every member of the team at their best. One Team, One Fight.” Kendall ended his visit by coining three Airmen and thanking all DAF mental health professionals for their dedication to their job and the mission. Peterson Space Force Base

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A transgender pilot’s advice for serving authentically

U.S. Air Force photo by Airman 1st Class Matthew-John Braman

U.S. Air Force Maj. Jason Vero, Joint Base Andrews Air Show director, poses for a photo on the flightline at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, June 28, 2022. As a transgender pilot, Vero credits having open-minded and compassionate leadership that was willing to talk and listen to his position and foster an inclusive environment enabled the major to continue his lifelong dream job of being an aviator.

By Staff Writer Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs

ARLINGTON, Va. (AFNS) — He always knew he wanted to be a rescue pilot, serving a higher purpose and rushing to the aid of others in harm’s way. Fighting courageously to save lives no matter the terrain or conditions. His rescues garnered him multiple awards and decorations to include the Jolly Green Association Rescue Mission of the Year Award and a medal for risking his own life to save the life of a critically injured truck driver. But there was always something bothering him. Something that didn’t quite feel right but couldn’t be easily explained. After years of soul searching, consulting his pastor and talking with friends and family, he decided to tell the truth to himself and the world. The decorated pilot, who risked his life for others, came out as transgender and started the process to become his true self. “In 2017, I suffered a number of tragedies in a short span of time, I felt lost in the ocean with my head barely above water with waves continuously crashing down” said Maj. Jason Vero, Joint Base Andrews Air Show director. “During that period, I did a lot of internal reflection and after speaking

July 7, 2022

at length with my pastor made the decision to transition.” With more than 1,500 flight hours and 350 instructor hours, the seasoned UH-1N Huey aviator sought out as much information and as many answers as he could obtain. “During that initial period – and even now – there is not a lot of guidance for aviators that have transitioned to get back their flight status,” Vero said. “But thorough research of Department of Defense and Air Force policies alongside my mentors and healthcare team guided me through the process.” Having open-minded and compassionate leadership that was willing to talk and listen to his position and foster an inclusive environment enabled the major to continue his lifelong dream job of being an aviator. “Being able to be myself, coupled with a command team that has cared for me and fought for me to be here, has made a world of difference and enabled me to continue to serve,” Vero said. “One great example was my leadership calling me up prior to a urinalysis test and asking if I preferred a medical observer versus a military observer. “A small gesture, but meant a lot to me personally and professionally,” he added. Vero advises service members who are con-

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sidering transitioning and wanting to continue to serve to read and understand what the DoD and Air Force policies state in detail. He suggests starting with DAFPM-2021-36-01 Assessions and In-Service Transition for Persons Identifying as Transgender. “This will assist you in your transition process and advocating for yourself,” he said. “If you’re aircrew, you can still transition and fly. Work with your command and medical team to find a way to ‘Yes.’ Just remember, you are your own best advocate.” In March 2021, the Department of Defense recognized transgender and gender non-conforming people and their continued struggle for equality, security and dignity. The Air Force soon followed suit, releasing guidance that essentially restored the original 2016 policies regarding transgender service. Specifically, they prohibit discrimination on the basis of gender identity or an individual’s identification as transgender. They also provide a means to access into the military in one’s self-identified gender, provided all appropriate military standards are met. More information on how the Department of the Air Force is committed to foster a diverse and inclusive environment can be found here https:// www.af.mil/Diversity.

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FRONT RANGE

SSFB ANNOUNCEMENTS

NEWS

AFSA CHAPTER 1182 MEETING What: ASFA Chapter 1182 wil be having their general membership meeting

PETERSON TOASTMASTERS

SBD 1 ANNOUNCEMENTS SBD 1 PUBLIC HEALTH DIRECTIVE #9 Effective immediately, PHD #9 measures are in effect for PSFB, SSFB and CMSFS. The installations have moved to HPCON Alpha. Wearing masks indoors is no longer required. Other force health protection guidance can be found on the Peterson Space Force Base website under COVID-19.

WANT TO ASK THE COMMANDER A QUESTION? There’s a number of methods available to ask your questions or voice your concerns to the Space Base Delta 1 commander. Email: p-sgar.cc.actionline@us.af.mil App: “Questions?” feature on Peterson’s AF Connect or Schriever’s AF Connect apps Website: “Contact” tab on the Peterson SFB or Schriever SFB websites Your submission will remain anonymous on the app or website unless you click the “Contact Me” box and include your email address.

What: In the Peterson Toasmasters Club, learn to be better leaders though a proven program of leadership development and public speaking training. No matter your age, background or experience, Toastmasters can make you a better leader and communicator; talents we all need in a fast-paced world. The enviornment is supportive and fun! When: Online via Zoom every Tuesday, 6-7 p.m., and in-person the 1st Friday of each month at the Peterson Hub, noon - 1 p.m. Who: Open to the public (through Zoom) or anyone with access to DoD installaions (in-person meetings) Details: https://petersontoastmasters.toastmastersclubs.org/ or email: contact-5316@ toastmastersclub.org

What: Multiple positions available on base within 21st FSS, large need within Child & Youth Programs Details: Apply through www.usajobs.gov, search “Colorado Springs” for local openings. For more information, visit www.21fss.com/about/naf-hro/

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FITNESS & SPORTS CENTER HOURS OF OPERATIONS 719-556-4462 Mon-Fri: 5 a.m. - 9 p.m. Sat/Sun & Family days: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Holidays Closed Patrons are highly encouraged to register for 24 hour access to secure entry at all hours. See Fitness Center front desk staff for more information.

AQUATICS CENTER 719-556-4608 Lap Swim: M/W/F 6 a.m. - 1 p.m., Tu/Th 11 a.m. - 6 p.m., Sat 10 a.m. - noon Shallow End Fitness: M/W/F 6 - 10 a.m., Tu/Th 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. Sat 10 a.m. - noon Open Swim: M/W/F 10 a.m. - 1 p.m., Tu/Th 2 - 6 p.m., Sat. noon - 4 p.m.

SBD 1 will continue to follow HHQ, DoD force health protection guidance, and state or county policy. This includes the continued requirement for mask wear while within medical facilities.

UPDATED PEDIATRIC COVID-19 VACCINE GUIDANCE At this time, the 21st Medical Group is unable to provide COVID-19 boosters for dependents under the age of 18. Use an off-base facility with Tricare support until booster shots can be offered back on the installation.

COVID-19 VACCINE APPOINTMENTS

NOW: Pfizer BioNTech COVID-19 shots are only being administered to active duty members, at this time. What: All COVID-19 shots are available by appointment. Who: Any individual who has completed a COVID-19 series and appropriate waiting

time may receive a booster. How: Patients may book an appointment through https://informatics-stage.health.mil/ COVAX/ Where: Peterson SFB Main Clinic (559 Vincent Street) Details: Individuals may receive the vaccine booster if: 1. Have completed a COVID-19 vaccine series, i.e. two doses of Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech; or one dose of the Janssen J&J vaccine. 2. Been at least 6 months after the final Moderna or Pfizer-BioNTech dose; or at least two months after the Janssen J&J single dose.

CHILD & YOUTH PROGRAM JOB OPPORTUNITIES

KNOW? 12

Why: Get involved! Bring a friend! Need POC’s for upcoming events.

21ST MDG ANNOUNCEMENTS

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What: VITALANT BLOOD DRIVE When: 14-15 July 2022 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. each day Where: Schriever SFB Building 210, Room 143

Where: Bennie’s, Bldg. 500

PSFB ANNOUNCEMENTS

FOR MORE EVENTS, CHECK OUT Facebook.com/SpaceBaseDelta1

COMMUNITY 411

When: 3rd Tuesday each month at 12:30 p.m.

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What: Multiple positions available Peterson and Schriever Details: Apply at http://www.usajobs.gov and search “Colorado Springs”

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