Public Health

Here’s food for thought this holiday season.

Naval Hospital Bremerton nutritional experts advocate to not forgo nutritional eating habits or wait until the new year to resume or apply a healthy dining regimen.

From the long Thanksgiving weekend to New Years Day, many are presented with an excess of gourmet opportunities at work, at home and at play.

We offer the following epicurean etiquette to consider for several gastronomic gatherings.

“Starches and Sugars and Sodium, Oh My!”

For someone attending a potluck at their work setting, Stefany Jones, NHB registered dietitian, recommends three main tips to keep in mind when presented with a table overflowing with a variety of food(s).

1. To minimize the temptation to overeat, avoid arriving hungry.

“Consider taking the edge off of hunger by filling up with veggies and lean proteins before the potluck feast,” said Jones.

2. Use a salad plate or a dessert plate to help control portions.

“Eat slowly to help savor the flavors,” Jones said.

3. Browse the selections before putting food on your plate.

“Aim to pick a few of your favorite options along with a few healthy options,” advised Jones.

“Cookies and Cakes and Chocolate, Oh My!”

For those planning on attending some function like a bowl game tailgater or New Year dining/dancing gathering, Lt. j.g. Randy Le, NHB Nutrition Management department head and registered dietitian, suggested a few basic pointers.

1. Stay hydrated before and during event. Many people misinterpret thirst for hunger. Excessive calories may be consumed when food is available.

“Staying adequately hydrated with water would keep our bodies satiated, while lowering our chances of consume the extra calories, sodium, saturated fats, and added sugars of certain food products,” said Le.

2. Use smaller utensils and serving plates.

“If you are at a gathering, look around to see if there are smaller utensils or plates/bowls to grab food from. If someone has gone a few hours without any food, they may eat with their eyes as opposed to identifying what their true hunger level actually is. Small portions of plates/bowls help lessening the chance of over-consuming what is actually needed,” Le explained.

3. Have fun!

“Food brings people together. Enjoy the food that is available to you. All foods fit, but moderation is key,” added Le.

“Cocktails and Colas and Caffeine, Oh My!”

During more formal holiday dining circumstances, Kayla Kangiser, NHB registered dietitian nutritionist and certified diabetes care and education specialist, advocated the following.

1. Grab a Plate. Take a glance at the foods that are available and put the foods that are most appealing on a plate.

“This is particularly helpful with appetizers to avoid excessive intake before the main meal,” explained Kangiser.

2. Slow Down.

“The holidays are a wonderful time to build relationships and connect with family and friends,” Kangiser noted. “But make an attempt to slow your chewing while engaging with others to avoid overeating.”

3. Limit/Avoid Sugary Beverages. One cup of Eggnog will add about 20 grams – five teaspoons of sugar – and about 220 calories to your holiday.

“Swap that eggnog for a sparkling cranberry beverage made with six ounce lime seltzer water, two ounce 100 percent cranberry juice and garnish with sliced lime and cranberries to save about 200 calories,” suggested Kangiser. “Best option is always water. Jazz it up with some fancy garnishes such as sliced citrus, cranberries or fresh herbs for the holiday season.”

“Putting Some Glide In Your Stride, Oh My!”

NHB’s Health Promotion and Wellness Center is also actively engaged in promoting healthier options and wellness examples on into the new year. Patricia Skinner, Health and Wellness Coordinator is organizing monthly 5K (3.1 mile) fun runs – and walks – for 2024 to promote cardio fitness. November featured the [cold] Turkey Trot 5K held in conjunction with the Great American Smokeout and the Reindeer Rally 5K (complete with reindeer ears!) featured this month.

“Participating in a monthly physical activity event not only helps to keep our staff physically fit, but also shows self-motivation to keep active since the physical readiness test is only once a year now. This is a great way to show and stay committed to personal physical fitness by taking on the challenge each month,” Skinner said.

Health Promotion and Wellness Center is also finalizing the upcoming lineup for virtual classes such as MOVE, Weight Management Program, Heart Healthy Living, Prevent Diabetes and Self-Care for the Person with Diabetes. For further class information and enrollment questions: 360-475-4541.

The Warren Roughnecks became champions after competing in the Armed Forces Hockey Association tournament in Las Vegas, Nov. 9-12, 2023 by going undefeated for five games against fellow service members and first responders from around the world.

Master Sgt. Nicholas Marriott, 790th Maintenance Squadron vehicle and equipment section chief and team captain, and Staff Sgt. Brandon Sanders, 90th Missile Maintenance Squadron team chief and team manager, decided to start their own hockey team composed of all 90th Missile Wing Airmen to compete in the tournament.

Marriot had played on a team with Airmen from Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, and Minot AFB, North Dakota. Both he and Sanders played with other 90 MW Airmen in the Cheyenne community on a men’s league and on the frozen base lakes in the winter. Once they thought they would have enough people to form a team for the tournament, Marriot made a Facebook page for F.E. Warren AFB hockey and began recruiting team members.

After forming the team in May of 2023, Marriott and Sanders registered the team in June for the tournament later in the year.

“This was the largest tournament they have hosted,” Marriot said. “Seventy teams participated, and this is an international tournament so first responders and military members from around the world can participate.”

From forming the team to the time of the tournament, the Roughnecks did not have any official team practices. The only opportunities to practice came in the form of free play in town, on frozen lakes or games with the local hockey league.

“A lot of the other guys on the team, myself included, have never played in games of this style and the first tournament game was also the first time we even played together as a team,” said Sanders. “I was a little skeptical of how we were going to do, especially with so many teams.”

Each team in the tournament is guaranteed four games throughout the weekend and the Roughnecks started with two games to determine their placement and division among the other teams in the tournament. The first game ended 7-0 with the Roughnecks beating the Nomads and then a second 6-0 shutout against the Utah Warriors Red.

“Our placement games were not exactly easy, but we definitely shouldn’t have been in that division,” said Sanders. “When we got bumped up for our next games, we saw some of the teams playing in our new division and we were worried about keeping up with them.”

The Roughnecks pulled through on these two games, however, and won them both with scores of 4-2 and 7-0., against the Rocky Mountain Patriots and the Hill Falcons, respectively. These wins helped secure their position in the championship game on the final day of the tournament, Nov. 12.

For the division’s championship game, the Warren Roughnecks played a U.S. Coast Guard team called the New England Operators. This was a good game which made for a fun time, according to Sanders. the team scored one goal in the first period, two in the second and both teams scored one goal in the third and final period for a game winning score of 4-1 for the Roughnecks.

“This was a fun team to be around and play with,” said Marriot. “Winning in our first season was great and now we know more people are interested and want to come play with us this coming year.”

Since coming back to Cheyenne from the Las Vegas tournament, the Warren Roughnecks have got the interest of about 20 new people, according to Sanders. For 90 MW Airmen interested in joining, with or without hockey or skating experience, they should reach out to the team captain or manager. There is also a Facebook page called F.E Warren Hockey.

Team members:

Lt Col Kevin Chelf, Chaplain

Capt. Tony D’Urso, 320th Missile Squadron

1st Lt. Thomas Liberta, 321st Missile Squadron

Army Chief Warrant Officer 2 Grant Byelich, Army National Guard, Cheyenne, Wyoming

Master Sgt. Nicholas Marriott (Captain), 790th Maintenance Squadron

Tech. Sgt. Jacob Green, 90th Missile Wing command post

Staff Sgt. Brandon Sanders (Manager), 90th Missile Maintenance Squadron

Staff Sgt. Patrick Murphy, 90th Force Support Squadron

Staff Sgt. Brandon Clemons, 90th Missile Security operations Squadron

Staff Sgt. Mike Bustin, 90th Missile Security operations Squadron

Senior Airman Tristian Ostergard, 90th Missile Maintenance Squadron

Capt. Kyle Brubaker, 90th Maintenance group (has since PCS’d)

Master Sgt. Sgt Cory Carlson, 90th Missile Maintenance Squadron (has since PCS’d)

This article was originally published on the F.E. Warren base website at: https://www.warren.af.mil/News/Article/3621134/warren-roughnecks-claim-hockey-title/, Dec. 15, 2023.

Dustin Wilson has made a major contribution as Central Issue Facility manager and accountable officer at Logistics Readiness Center-Daegu since his arrival in June 2022. He has reduced excess/outdated stock by 45 percent, scored “commendable” on all inspections and set up a highly effective ICE feedback system which nets in excess of 10 comments a month (all positive). He brings significant energy, creativity, customer service and efficiency to LRC-Daegu CIF making it one of the best in the Army.

Hometown:

Surprise, AZ

How long have you been working for the U.S. Army?

I started civilian service in 2017 working for the 402nd AFSB LRC-Wainwright Central Issue Facility as a supply technician. With the knowledge I gained there I was able to move to 405th AFSB LRC-Benelux in 2019 as the accountable officer for the CIF Main in Chievres, Belgium, and CIF Annex in Brunssum, Netherlands. I started my current position the CIF accountable officer for the Camp Carroll CIF under 403rd AFSB LRC-Daegu in 2022.

What other positions have you held with the U.S. Military?

Army active duty from 2013-2017 in 6th Squadron, 17th Cavalry Regiment stationed at Fort Wainwright, Alaska, as MOS 15J, OH-58D Kiowa helicopter armament, electrical, and avionics systems maintenance. Completed one 9-month rotation to Camp Humphreys ending February 2015. As the Kiowa began to be phased out, I was detailed to CIF as a material handler assistant in April 2015, preparing issues and turn-ins of Organizational Clothing and Individual Equipment (OCIE). This was really the start of my career at CIF as I became knowledgeable in OCIE and CIF procedures.

Tell us about your job and what you do:

As a CIF accountable officer, I am responsible for ensuring the accountability of OCIE and Chemical Individual Protective Equipment issued, received, and stored at CIF. CIFs mission is all about readiness, providing protective and load carrying equipment to our assigned service members to ensure they are always fully capable and ready to complete their missions. We support thousands of service members in Area IV with issues and turn-ins of authorized equipment, handling 282,380 pieces of equipment with a value of $28.1m in the past year.

What motivates you?

I love working as part of the CIF team and supporting the service member. CIF is a place I know I can make a positive impact for service members. As the CIF accountable officer, Soldiers often come to me for questions and concerns regarding their equipment and records. While I can’t immediately solve every problem, taking a moment to hear what the individual has to say and understanding their issue makes a difference. I can provide accurate guidance and options for the service member to pursue, ensuring the individual has a way forward and positive experience even in stressful situations.

What other duties are you responsible for?

Alternate Billing Official

What are some of your accomplishments while at LRC-Daegu?

Camp Carroll CIF has achieved a Best-In-Class rating in the ICE Comment system for FY22 and FY23 with a 100 percent satisfaction rating. Our team provides outstanding customer service and ensures every service member is treated with respect and understanding, guaranteeing a positive experience for all.

What is the best thing about working at LRC-Daegu?

Camp Carroll CIF has an amazing team of Korean local national employees, several of whom have worked there over 20 years. I love working with them, sharing CIF knowledge, and learning from their experiences over the years. They made a positive difference in my life and have been very helpful in the transition to living in Korea. I am truly grateful to have them on my team.

What do you like to do in your free time?

My family and I love the simple things like walking along the Sincheon River and visiting the local markets in Daegu, enjoying the amazing cuisine and culture of Korea.

Do you have anything else you would like to share?

After starting my Army career as an enlisted aviation Soldier, I would have never thought my time detailed at CIF would lead me into the career I have today as a CIF accountable officer. I am thankful for the great leaders, colleagues and friends who personally educated and supported me, providing opportunities to grow professionally and further my career.

OSAN AIR BASE, Republic of Korea – The 25th Fighter Squadron participated in the routine training event, EPIC FOG 24-1, Dec. 11 – 15, 2023, focusing on close air support or CAS, forward air control or FAC and air-to-air refueling, to enhance operational capabilities.

The training took place on the eastern side of the Korean peninsula and brought together joint and international partners including the U.S. Army 1st and 2nd Striker Brigade Combat Team, the 8th Fighter Wing and the Republic of Korea Air Force 261st Air Refueling Squadron. Capt. Keenan Allen, 25th Fighter Squadron current operations flight commander, described the training as critical for pilots to hone their skills in combined air-to-ground operations.

“The main goal of EPIC FOG was to exercise our support for large-scale combat operations in air-to-ground conflicts,” said Allen. “This training is exactly what CAS and attack pilots dream of, as it challenges us to utilize the full diversity of our skill sets while enhancing our understanding of integration with our joint and international partners.”

During the training, several 25th FS pilots earned their airborne forward air controller, or FAC(A), qualifications, further strengthening the squadron’s capability to deliver coordinated joint air combat power. A FAC(A) pilot is a qualified aviation officer who coordinates air support for ground troops, functioning as an airborne link with ground-based joint terminal attack controllers.

“Essentially, a FAC(A) works in conjunction with a JTAC to facilitate the fire of airborne assets,” Allen explained. “This mission set brings a plethora of capabilities to the fight. An effective FAC(A) shortens the timeline of engagement from air assets through detailed integration and planning with ground maneuver units. In the air, the FAC(A) finds and nominates targets, tasks assets to targets and ensures positive deconfliction to effectively neutralize those targets.”

Collaboration was a key theme of the event. For the first time ever, the 25th FS conducted air-to air refueling with ROKAF KC-330s, providing realistic, effective training for pilots during simulated bilateral combat operations.

“EPIC FOG 24-1 was the first to include ROKAF KC-330/A-10 aerial refueling,” said Maj. Justin Ledvina 25th Fighter Squadron director of operations. “This was the first opportunity for many of our pilots to refuel with a ROKAF tanker. [Air-to air refueling] enhances our fighters’ capabilities by increasing both their operational range and the duration they can remain engaged in combat. The ROKAF’s support not only granted us extended training time in the airspace, but also fostered mutual trust in our capabilities and an understanding of our limitations.”

Ledvina said the 25th FS intends to keep hosting EPIC FOG, bringing together different units, services, and allies for advanced CAS training in the future.

“EPIC FOG allows us the opportunity to work with our joint and combined partners in a CAS-focused environment,” Ledvina said. “From this integration, we’re able to learn from each other, enhance interoperability and strengthen relationships. Ultimately, the EPIC FOG series creates a more lethal joint and combined force.”

Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) helped commemorate the 79th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne, Belgium, Dec. 16, 2023 with a parade through the city center. The 101st Soldiers were joined by WWII Veterans, a local Belgian band, members of the Belgian military, Soldiers from Benelux, Belgian school children, and members of the community.

The Battle of the Bulge occurred in the winter of 1944 as elements of the 101st looked to secure and defend the city of Bastogne, surrounded by the German Army. The airborne Soldiers were able to repel the attacks of the Germans and outlast the barrage of German artillery until Lt. Gen. George S. Patton’s Third Army was able to break through the German line to aid the 101st Soldiers. Both Lt. Gen. Patton and Brig. Gen. Anthony McAuliffe, commander of the 101st Airborne Division, are seen as heroes that saved the town of Bastogne from destruction.

That legacy of service and sacrifice has not been forgotten by those serving in the 101st today. Col. Trevor Voelkel, commander of the 1st Brigade Combat Team (Bastogne),101st Airborne Division (Air Assault) has not forgotten the importance of what his unit’s namesake is. “It’s an absolute privilege and honor to represent the great Soldiers of the Bastogne brigade,” said Voelkel. “To see the WWII veterans, to hear their stories and to understand their sacrifice and how that relates to the sacrifice that our Soldiers and families have today is truly a wonderful opportunity and amazing experience.”

“It is a community within a community in Bastogne,” said Voelkel, “and what I think you’ll find is that they have not forgotten and it’s a part of the fabric of society here. They still remember through their relatives and their stories, the liberation of Belgium when the Americans and Allies came to liberate them after years under the Nazis. It’s important that we all remember what the world went through, so that it never happens again.”

Fairchild Air Force Base leaders hosted a Wreaths Across America ceremony at the Fort George Wright Cemetery, in Spokane, Washington, Dec. 16, 2023.

During the event, past and present service members, volunteers and community leaders honored the service and sacrifice of 254 fallen American veterans by laying remembrance wreaths on their graves and speaking their names aloud.

“Each wreath is a testament to the indomitable spirit of those who, in times of conflict and in times of peace, answered the call to serve,” said Col. Chesley Dycus, 92nd Air Refueling Wing Commander. “Their sacrifices were not in vain, for they have left an indelible mark on the fabric of our nation.”

In his keynote speech, Dycus also thanked the families of all U.S. veterans who have also made sacrifices for the nation’s defense throughout its history.

“They too have borne the weight of service, supporting their loved ones in times of absence, anxiety, and loss,” he said. “We extend our deepest gratitude to them for their resilience and strength.”

Dating back to 2007, National Wreaths Across America Day is an annual event that takes place on the third Saturday in December at Arlington National Cemetery, as well as other cemeteries across the United States. This year, Fairchild AFB joined more than 2 million volunteers and supporters around the nation to remember the fallen, honor those who serve and teach the next generation the value of freedom.

“Wreaths Across America teaches us that remembrance is a living, breathing act,” said Dycus. “It is not confined to a single day or ceremony, it is a continuous thread that weaves through the tapestry of our national identity.”

Mobile Diving and Salvage Company 1-8, U.S. 7th Fleet’s deployed salvage force, completed the at-sea disposal of a derelict cargo vessel in Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia, as part of Pacific Partnership 24-1 Dec. 15th, 2023.

At the request of the Micronesian government, U.S. Navy divers from Task Group 73.6 (CTG 73.6), in cooperation with the Transportation, Communications, and Infrastructure Department (TC&I), Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Pohnpei Port Authority (PPA), towed MV Micro Glory out of Dekehtik Harbor to a designated disposal site and sank her to a depth of more than 2000m.

The vessel, launched in 1978, had been moored pier-side and exposed to the elements for years. Prior to the start of pre-disposal preparations, the 185-foot long, 790-tonne Micro Glory was sitting on her keel with an 11-degree starboard list and had active leaks in her shaft seals.

Micro Glory’s disposal reduces the risks of future environment and economic impacts in Pohnpei that could have resulted from the vessel capsizing in a storm, said Lt. Cmdr. Max Cutchen, salvage officer for U.S. 7th Fleet.

Task Group divers and personnel from TC&I cleaned Micro Glory of any potential environmentally hazardous waste and removed bulk petroleum, oil and lubricants from the engines and fuel tanks prior to the disposal operation.

“The vessel was covered in the detritus of decay, necessitating a concerted effort by the disposal team to remove thousands of pounds of garbage and debris, in addition to immense quantities of fuel, oil and lubricants,” said Ens. Christopher Greene, Task Group 73.6 Commander. “U.S. Navy divers have been working side-by-side with Pohnpeian locals for over a month to ensure Micro Glory was well prepared for an at-sea disposal while prioritizing the protection of the marine environment.”

Micro Glory was ultimately sunk at a pre-designated site, approved by the Pohnpei Governor’s office, located approximately 5 nautical miles northwest of Pohnpei.

The disposal of Micro Glory provided the opportunity to enhance strong relationships and enduring trust between the United States and the Federated States of Micronesia.

“This operation is one of many ways our countries continue to develop strong diplomatic ties, and cooperatively endeavor to protect our oceans and marine life for future generations,” said Greene. “The disposal of Micro Glory was a successful operation for CTG 73.6, but more importantly, it represents a big step toward the ultimate protection and preservation of the stunning Micronesian waters.”

MV Micro Glory was one of six Japanese-built cargo vessels procured by the government of the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM) under a Japanese grant aid scheme between 1976 and 1978. The vessels were used by FSM to ferry passengers and cargo between the outer islands of the country.

CTG 73.6 is currently deployed to Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia in coordination with Pacific Partnership 24-1. Renowned as the U.S. Seventh Fleet’s premier maritime emergency response and salvage force, CTG 73.6 exemplifies the U.S. Navy’s commitment to aiding communities in need and providing swift assistance during times of crisis.

Pacific Partnership, now in its 19th iteration, is the largest annual multinational humanitarian assistance and disaster relief preparedness mission conducted in the Indo-Pacific. Each year the mission team works collectively with host and partner nations to enhance regional interoperability and disaster response capabilities, increase security and stability in the region, and foster new and enduring friendships in the Indo-Pacific.

U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY, Colo.- Newly commissioned 2nd Lt. Alfred K. Flowers III’s, who goes by Kendell, most prized graduation gift was a small, rectangular piece of wood resembling what might rest on any officer’s desk. He was gifted the name plate from his father, Brig. Gen. Alfred K. Flowers Jr., after his graduation from the U.S. Air Force Academy June 1.

After his commissioning in 1997, Brig. Gen. Flowers received the name plate from his father, retired Maj. Gen. Alfred K. Flowers, who served 46 years, the longest of any Airman in service history.

“The name plate has always been motivation, in a sense, a symbol of what’s coming my way,” 2nd Lt. Flowers said. “But it means so much more now after going through these four years and having the experiences that I’ve had. I am grateful and thankful to come from this. In terms of symbolism, it’s passing down the torch to the next generation for myself and my younger brother.”

Entering the business

From 2nd Lt. Flowers’ grandfather to his father, the family has always considered the Air Force “a family business.” Both generals also met their wives in the Air Force, and Lieutenant Flowers’ younger brother Ayden is pursuing a commissioning pre-med program as a Texas A&M University ROTC cadet.

When 2nd Lt. Flowers was commissioned the night before the Academy graduation, his father and grandfather gave him the oath of office, his mother and grandmother pinned on his bars, and ROTC Cadet Ayden Flowers gave his brother his first salute.

“I’m still seeing the same kid wearing the heritage brown bomber jacket we gave him,” Maj. Gen. Flowers said. “The same boy always had aspirations of being an Air Force pilot.”

Lieutenant Flowers’ cadet squadron air officer commanding did not know of the family business when he decided to make him squadron commander. But a fellow commander soon informed him of where the cadet acquired his professional qualities.

“Right after I picked Kendell for squadron commander, I remember thinking what an impressive young man he was,” Lt. Col. Nicholas E. Conover said. “He had what I was looking for–a balance between academic smarts and people smarts.”

Not a mystery

The brothers’ biggest role models were their father and grandfather who made it a point to avoid pushing the military as a career on them. But the generals quickly learned the examples they set were enough. Along with their parents and grandparents’ examples and guidance, life on Air Force bases, watching their father at work, and observing how both generals treated their people helped both boys know where they wanted their lives to go.

“We saw the Air Force as a family business, and they saw it, too,” Maj. Gen. Flowers said. “The military was not a mystery to them.”

The simple task of putting on his uniform name tag one morning about a week before graduation caused Brig. Gen. Flowers to ponder his son’s joining the family business, he said.

“I was putting on my uniform the other day, thinking the one thing that bonds us is that name tag,” Brig. Gen. Flowers said. “It costs only $6 at clothing sales. But Kendell will represent our family’s trials, triumphs, tribulations, and our values. That is the intrinsic value of that blue name tag.”

Once he was a cadet, 2nd Lt. Flowers relied on the many lessons he learned from his father and grandfather, especially when he became his squadron’s first sergeant, and later, its commander.

“As Cadet Squadron 2 commander, he would call me about the decisions he was considering for his staff,” Brig. Gen. Flowers said. “I would tell him that you’re the commander. You make the decision, and you own it. If you end up making the wrong decision, you own that, too.”

But his father’s greatest leadership lesson came down to one piece of advice.

“We are very much in the people business,” Brig. Gen. Flowers said. “I challenge anyone to out-care me. You never will but try hard.”

His own task

Second Lt. Flowers graduated with a bachelor’s in management. For at least the next year, he will participate in Academy Admissions outreach in Nashville, Tenn., until his slot opens for specialized undergraduate pilot training at Laughlin Air Force Base, Texas.

As much as the Flowers legacy means to its newest Air Force officer, 2nd Lt. Flowers knows he’s responsible for carving out his own name.

“The big thing with my father is he’s always trying to make his own path,” 2nd Lt. Flowers said. “He even makes sure that Jr. is on the end of his name on everything. When they gave me my Academy name tag on my door, it didn’t have III on it. As soon as he saw it, he told me to go downstairs and get it changed. Our names define us, but we always want to define our own paths.”