July 7, 2017Fort Wainwright, Alaska

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The Interior Military News Connection

A final farewell: The untold story behind Hursey Gate

5-1 CAV Red Flag

Army, joint forces train to fully defend against

Blackhawk Soldiers of the 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team wrapped-up 14 days taking part in the Red Flag 17-02 Exercise June in Alaska. (Photo by 1st Lt. Kalam Tanvir, 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Unit Public Affairs Representative)

U.S. Air Force Airmen commemorate the opening of Hursey Gate by rendering the appropriate customs and courtesies circa 1965 at Eielson Air Force Base, Alaska. Hursey Gate has gone through many upgrades in the following years, but the namesake has always remained. (Photo courtesy U.S. Air Force)

Ice Cream Appreciation Day, with free ice cream soda floats and a carnival from 5 to 7 p.m. Bring friends and family together to celebrate National Ice Cream Day. Ice cream soda floats will be provided for free, as well as yard games and face painting. There’s something for everyone in the entire family at the Last Frontier Community Activity Center, located in building 1044. Call 353-7755 for more information.

Sunday - TuesdayMostly Cloudy, Highs near 80. Lows near 60.

FridayMostly Cloudy, Highs in the lower 80s. Lows near 60.

WEEKEND WEATHER ICE CREAM APPRECIATION DAY

Vol. 8, No. 27

Staff ReportU.S. Army Cyber Command

Fort Wainwright’s Ketcham Road will undergo paving during the month of July. Motorists travelling between North Post and the southeast corner of post. Access to and from Kinney Road from points

Staff ReportU.S. Army Alaska Public Affairs

Fort Wainwright and U.S. Army Alaska will publish a list of the available Interior Alaska military lands available for moose hunting no later than July 14, 2017, to allow hunters time to schedule and resource their hunts.

General moose season on military lands will coincide with hunting season as determined by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game. Hunting-related activities are only permitted during the ADFG-directed hunting season. USARAK intends to make all training area not actively being used for military training available for hunting and other recreational uses.

Information about available and restricted lands will be published through the USARTRAK iSportsman web page http://usartrak.isportsman.net, local news media, the Fort Wainwright website and Facebook page, local fliers, community meetings and at the Fairbanks and Delta Junction Alaska Department of Fish and Game offices.

All sportsmen 16 and older choosing to recreate on military lands must register for a free access permit which can be obtained online at http://usartrak.isportsman.net.

The public will have online access to view which military lands are open to recreation, to include hunting, but will be required to have a Fort Wainwright Recreation Access Permit in their possession prior to entering Fort Wainwright lands.

To ensure the safety of both sportsmen and military personnel, Fort Wainwright Law Enforcement in partnership with Alaska Wildlife Troopers, will significantly increase active patrolling and enforcement of hunting regulations on military lands. Sportsmen will need to be extra vigilant to ensure they are accessing only those lands available to public recreation.

Fort Wainwright and USARAK understand the importance of hunting in the Interior and are working diligently to provide reasonable access to training lands during moose season. Fort Wainwright and USARAK are partnering closely with the U.S. Air Force, the Alaska Department of Fish and Game, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, the Alaska State Troopers, the Alaska Fire Service and the Bureau of Land Management to ensure a safe and enjoyable hunting season for everyone involved.

The Army reserves the right to adjust the available lands for hunting in order to facilitate unscheduled critical training in support of worldwide deployments. Maintaining military readiness to respond to worldwide contingencies is our No. 1 priority.

For more information, contact the Fort Wainwright Natural Resource Office at 907 361-9686 during normal business hours from 7:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. If no one is available to take your call please leave a message and they will return your call.

1st Lt. Kalam Tanvir5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Unit Public Affairs Representative

Soldiers from Fort Wainwright, Alaska and service members of other Armed Forces participated in the 2017 Red Flag exercise here in Alaska.

Blackhawk Soldiers of the 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division wrapped-up 14 days taking part in the Red Flag 17-02 Exercise. Troopers from the squadron had the privilege of working alongside and training with a multitude of forces.

1st Lt. Christopher D. Rainsberger, of Bandit Troop, 5-1 CAV shared his experience.

“Any opportunity that we have to train with the Air Force is extremely valuable time spent communicating with and observing targets for close air support and close combat air,” said Rainsberger. “Red Flag 17-02 has been one of the most beneficial

2nd Lt. Kitsana Dounglomchan354th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

Having recently arrived on Eielson Air Force Base, I was curious about the story behind Hursey Gate. I drive in and out of this gate every morning, but I knew only scant details about its namesake. I wanted to know more.

After speaking to the Airmen who were there 54 years ago, as well as researching decades-old newspaper accounts, what follows is a faithful

retelling of the events that transpired on that tragic night.

February 27, 1963, seven o’clock in the evening

Airman Third Class Frank Abernathy was navigating his black and white ’57 Chevrolet on the snow-slicked roads of Eielson. He was making his way to Fairbanks to buy supplies for the 4,700 mile journey back to his home in North Carolina.

It was winter and dark, 15 degrees below zero, but as Abernathy neared

the guard hut he was able to spot his friend, Airman Second Class Roy Lee Hursey, manning the post and checking identification cards.

He stopped the car and got out to say farewell.

Abernathy and Hursey, both from North Carolina, grew up in towns only three miles apart, but they didn’t become acquainted until they were stationed at Eielson in 1962.

Abernathy teased Hursey,

Military prepares for moose season

See HURSEY on page 6

See CYBER on page 3

See CAV on page 7

Ketcham Road ConstructionFort Wainwright’s Ketcham Road will

undergo paving during the month of July. Motorists travelling between North Post and the southeast corner of post. Some Soldier PT routes may be effected during this time period. Access to and from Kinney Road from points south of the work site will be kept open although there may be delays traveling

through this section of road. During weekdays, traffic moving from North Post to the southeast corner of Fort Wainwright, towards the Badger Gate area will be permitted through the Ketcham Road work site from North Post toward the intersection of Ketcham and Montgomery Roads. Traffic going toward the east/south through the work site will be permitted only between 3:30 until 6 p.m. It is estimated that road closures will be in effect for two to four weeks.

SaturdayPartly Sunny, Highs in the 80s. Lows in the mid 60s.

2 July 7, 2017

ALASKA POST�e Interior Military News Connection

EDITORIAL STAFF

Garrison CommanderCol. Sean C. Williams

Fort Wainwright PAO Mel Slater

Command Information/Editor

Brian Schlumbohm

Staff WritterDaniel Nelson

The ALASKA POST is authorized by Army Regulation 360-1 and is published by the Fairbanks Daily News-Miner, a private firm in no way connected with the U.S. Army, and is under exclusive written contract. Contents of the ALASKA POST are not necessarily the official views of, or endorsed by, the Department of the Army. The editorial content of this publication is the responsibility of the U.S. Army Garrison Fort Wainwright Public Affairs Office. The ALASKA POST welcomes responsible comments from its readers and will publish letters, articles or photos submitted at least one week prior to the next publication. The ALASKA POST reserves the right to edit or reject submissions. All submitted material will become official Army property unless otherwise indicated. To advertise call (907) 459-7548 Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available for purchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital status, physical handicap, political affiliation or any other non-merit factor of the purchaser, user or patron. The Editorial office is located on Ft. Wainwright in Building 1047 #1; Mailing address is Public Affairs Office, 1060 Gaffney Road, 5900, Fort Wainwright, AK 99703. Call 353-6779 or 353-6760, or send emails to

usarmy.wainwright.imcom-pacific.list.pao@mail.milThe ALASKA POST – The Interior Military News Connection

NEWS

Ryki CarlsonSurvivor Outreach Services Support Coordinator

With summer finally here and the kids out of school, the challenge now is how to keep them entertained while staying within budget. Here are some ideas that will help.

BOWLINGIf you’re looking for an activity on

those rainy days or when it’s too hot to play outdoors, consider taking your child bowling. Visit www.kidsbowlfree.com for details on how get 2 free games of bowling daily for the kids.

ARTS AND CULTUREBlue Star Museums are offering FREE

days for military from Memorial Day to Labor Day. Check out the map on the Blue Star site for a museum near you at https://www.arts.gov/national/blue-star-museums. Many of these museums offer the same benefits for Gold Star Families.

BUILD AND GROW CLINICSLowe’s and Home Depot offer classes

for basic projects to help build your child’s confidence.

CRAFTSMany local craft stores offer free classes

for kids, usually on Saturdays. Give them a call or check their Facebook pages.

SUMMER PLAYGROUND PROGRAMSMany local parks are offering drop-in

programs for kids and families. Check their websites for opportunities or if you are traveling and searching for a playground for

your children visit www.playgroundbuddy.com. This free app has an extensive list with over 200,000 playgrounds worldwide.

MOVIESRegal Cinemas are offering $1 family

friendly movies starting at 10 AM each Tuesday and Wednesday during their Summer Movie Express. These tickets can be purchased online as well as at the box office. To find the closest location to you visit www.regmovies.com/movies/summer-movie-express.

Cinemark Theatres are offering Reel Family Time. Their admission every Monday is $1.15 per person for parties of 3 or more. These tickets are only available at the box office and are NOT available for purchase online. Visit their site at www.cinemark.com/discounts to see a full list of their discounts as well as to locate a theatre near you.

BOOKSBookstores often run summer reading

programs. Barnes and Noble’s summer reading program encourages children to read and even earn a free book.

Book Adventure, created by Sylvan Learning encourages children in grades K-8 to read. They earn points for prizes for successfully reading and taking multiple choice quizzes on the books they have read. Take time to see this fun learning site at www.bookadventure.com.

Local libraries offer summer reading programs. Lots of community libraries offer reading programs with prizes. Visit or call your local library to find out about their summer programs.

The nutrition facts of food products contain information that allows you, as the consumer, to make informed and healthy choices. Frequently the food label is overlooked but it contains all the information you need to ensure you are getting the most bang for your buck in the nutrition department.

Before you look at anything, always check out the serving size. Everything listed on that label is relative to the portion size. Even items that look like they are single serving items, some varieties of chips for example, may have two to three servings.

Next, scope out the calories. This is of particular importance if you are trying to manage your weight. The daily values can be used as a guide but note that they are based on a 2,000 calorie diet which may be more or less than you need. None the less, they are good snapshot at what nutrients the product contains. If a product contains less than 5% of the daily value in a particular nutrient, it is considered “low” in that

nutrient. Conversely, for something to be considered “high” in a nutrient, it must have more than 20 percent of the daily value in a nutrient.

As a general rule of thumb, aim for low in cholesterol, saturated fat, trans fat, and sodium and aim for high in vitamin, minerals, and fiber. Diets high in saturated fat and trans fat can increase your risk for heart disease. High sodi-um diets can lead to high blood pressure. Don’t confuse “reduced sodium” with “low sodium.” Products that are low in sodium must have less than 140 mg of sodium per serving while reduced sodium products only have 25 percent less than their original product. A good example of how this can be misleading is soy sauce. Next time you are in the grocery store, check it out. You will find that the reduced sodium variety is indeed reduced but is still very high in sodium.

FEATURED FOOD

Greek yogurt. Calorie content varies depending on

the brand and ingredients. Aim for yogurts that are low in fat with no sugar added. A great option is to purchase paint, fat free Greek yogurt and add your own fruit or use it as a sour cream alternative.

FEATURED RECIPEBanana and Berry Smoothie

Ingredients:1 1/2 frozen banana1/4 cup orange juice1 cup strawberries1 cup blueberries1 cup plain, fat free Greek Yogurt1/2 cup skim milk

INSTRUCTIONPlace all ingredients in a blender and blend until

smooth. Enjoy!

IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS Emergency: 91124 Hour Nurse Advice Line: 1-800-

874-2273 Opt. 1Appointment Line: 361-4000Behavioral Health: 361-6059Benefits Advisor: 361-5656Immunizations: 361-5456Information Desk: 361-5172Patient Advocate: 361-5291Pharmacy Refills: 361-5803Substance Abuse/Clinical

Counseling: 361-4054Tricare On-Line: www.

tricareonline.comUnited Health Care:

uhcmilitarywest.com, 877-988-9378

PERFORMANCE TRIAD TIPSleep loss and sleep disorders

have a significant economic impact. The high estimated costs to society of leaving the most prevalent sleep disorders untreated are far more than the costs that would be incurred by delivering adequate treatment. Hundreds of billions of dollars a year are spent on direct medical costs associated with doctor visits, hospital services, prescriptions, and over-the-counter drugs.

SCHOOL IS FAST APPROACHINGSchool is fast approaching – Be

ready for the start of school and skip the last-minute rush by getting school and sport physicals July 11 or July 26, from 4 to 6 p.m. at Bassett ACH. The event is for youth three

to 18. Physicals are good for one full year. Please bring any school forms and shot records if available. Make your appointment today by calling 362-4000.

DO YOU KNOW JOE?We want to hear from you and starting

June 20 the Joint Outpatient Evaluation System will be randomly mailed to beneficiaries requesting input on appointment satisfaction. Your responses will assist MEDDAC-AK leadership to improve services and your overall experience. Look for your envelope in the mail.

TRAVELING? If you plan to travel internationally

make an appointment to make sure you are taking all the necessary precautions to stay safe. We recommend you visit the office 6 weeks before your travel date. Make an appointment by calling 361-5182.

A GREAT PLACE TO WORKMEDDAC-AK has job openings for

both clinical and non-clinical positions here at Fort Wainwright. To view job openings go to www.usajobs.gov.

ANIMALS NEED LOVE TOOThe Fort Wainwright Veterinary

Treatment Facility is available for wellness visits and basic sick call visits 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through Friday. To schedule an appointment or for more information on services, call 361-3013.

Nutrition Corner: Nutrition facts

MEDDAC MinuteWeekly Financial Tips: Summer fun

Command Financial Non-Commissioned Officers Program

Nikki HinesArmy Community Service Financial Readiness Specialist

As financial stressors on our service members have become increasingly apparent, the need to have financially educated Soldiers is greater than ever. Army Community Service launched the first training class called the Command Financial Non-Commissioned Officers Program in April 2017.

This training covered topics such as basic budgeting, smart consumerism when buying a car, Thrift Savings Plan, and retirement planning.

The training wasn’t only for those in attendance. The program is designed to share the knowledge with the NCO’s so that they can be the subject matter expert’s embedded with in their unit.

The purpose of the CFNCO is to be the point of contact for Soldiers where they

need it most; within the unit and easily accessible. The course is designed to help leaders be better prepared to answer basic financial questions so their Soldiers can make good choices when making financial decisions.

CFNCO’s also have a resource guide to offer Soldiers potential resources outside of the military, such as information about qualifying for the Women, Infant and Children food program or free activities in the local community. Fort Wainwright currently has 12 CFNOC’s embedded within six units. The next training for additional units will be in mid-October.

If you are in a leadership position and want the benefits of having a trained CFNCO in your unit please contact the Financial Readiness Specialist at Army Community Service, Nikki Hines, at 907-353-3459 or email, at nikki.m.hines.civ@mail.mil.

3July 7, 2017 NEWS

L. Amber PhillippeFort Wainwright Landscape Historian

Manufactured by Klauer Manufacturing Company in Dubuque, Iowa, the TU3 SnoGo, along with the LTR (a blade mount snow plow), were used throughout the Alaska theater during World War II and beyond. The TU3 was an auger-style blower head that was mounted to whatever heavy duty truck was handy. Though Klauer Manufacturing claimed the TU3 could throw snow 100 feet, the military generally had another truck ride along side and removed the snow entirely from the site being cleared.

Like Historic Photos? Check out our Pinterest page for more, visit www.pinterest.com/fwacultural/. If you have any stories or photographs to share with the Cultural Resources Management program please call, (907) 361-9329 or email laurel.a.phillippe.ctr@mail.mil. (File photo, Fort Wainwright Environmental Division)

Soldiers of the 780th Military Intelligence Brigade take part in a Cyber Development and Mentorship Exercise to enhance cyber skills. (Photo Credit: U.S. Army Cyber Command photo )

History Snapshot: A TU3 SnoGo being used to clear the road in front of Hangar 1

Join us for the best destination of the summer-SonRise National Park VBS

Come to the land of invigorating power and beauty where there is nothing between you and God’s big sky. Adults, youth, and kids will enjoy the thrills of daily treks where they can face challenges and learn to depend on the promises of God. They will discover the true treasure described in Philippians 4:19, “My God will meet all your needs according to his glorious riches in Christ Jesus.” Adult and youth volunteers still needed. If interested please contact Garrett Northway, at 907-361-4375 or email

south of the work site will be kept open although there may be delays traveling through this section of road.

During weekdays, traffic moving from North Post to the southeast corner of Fort Wainwright, towards the Badger Gate area will be permitted through the Ketcham Road work site from North Post toward the intersection of Ketcham and Montgomery Roads. Traffic going toward the east/south through the work site will be permitted only between 3:30 until 6 p.m. It is estimated that road closures will be in effect for two to four weeks.

CYBER Continued from page 1

Derrick FlowersFort Wainwright Army Emergency Relief, Army Community Service

The Army & Air Force Exchange Services and Army Emergency Relief have joined forces to help Military Families. This is yet another opportunity for the Ft. Wainwright Community to contribute to AER even though the campaign officially closed on May 31st. This effort is scheduled to take place in September 2017 which will allow patrons to go through the checkout counter where they will be afforded the opportunity to make a $5 donation to AER. By giving $5 at the register to Army Emergency Relief, the customer receives a coupon for $5 off their next purchase of $25 or more. The coupon is valid Sept.14 thru18 which AFFES calls this effort “Give and Get Back!”

During our 2016 campaign we as a community didn’t do so well, collecting a little over $50,000 with over $290,000 awarded for assistance. After discussing our strategy for the 2017 campaign, our Garrison Command Team set our

installation goal at $70,000 based off previous historical data. However, thanks to engaged leadership and your team efforts, we were able to collect over $133,000 during this year’s campaign which speaks volume about your commitment. Army Emergency Relief helps with emergency financial needs for Soldiers and Families in support of unit readiness. Donations from Soldiers, active and retired, are essential to ensure the legacy of Soldiers Helping Soldiers continue another 75 years.

This August, the AER Headquarters leadership have Plan visit Ft. Wainwright AK which will give leadership an opportunity to provide feedback from their positions about how we can improve as a team. Also it will allow Command Teams to ask the tough questions about recent changes and recommendations. Again, we can’t thank you enough for choosing and supporting Army Emergency Relief.

Arctic Tough!

For more information, contact Derrick Flowers at 907-353-7453.

Army Emergency Relief

4 July 7, 2017NEWS

Daniel NelsonFort Wainwright Public Affairs

Servicemembers from Fort Wainwright and Eielson Air Force Base took part in the 4th of July celebrations at Pioneer Park in Fairbanks, Alaska. Soldiers from U.S. Army Alaska have been supporting the community of Fairbanks’ Independence Day celebrations for more than 18 years.

The celebrations kicked off with a performance by the U.S. Army Alaska Arctic Warrior Band before the joint Fort Wainwright and Eielson Air Force Base honor guard opened the official ceremony where distinguished visitors spoke from the top deck of the S.S. Nenana, a renovated sternwheeler steamboat on display in the park.

Among the guest speakers for the event included Karl Kassel, Fairbanks North Star Bureau Mayor; Jim Matherly, City of Fairbanks Mayor; Col. David Mineau, Eielson Air Force Base Commander and Col. Sean Williams, U.S. Army Garrison, Fort Wainwright Commander.

The strong and unique relationship that both Fort Wainwright and Eielson Air Force Base have with Fairbanks and its surrounding communities was ever present on the Nation’s 241st Independence Day as civilian and military members gathered together to listen to the event’s speakers.

A moment of silence was observed to honor the fallen men and women who have paid the ultimate sacrifice to ensure that the people of America have continued to live in a country of liberty and freedom throughout its 241 years of Independence from Britain.

“Our recognition that we have yet to achieve a ‘perfect union’, our refusal to accept anything less, is the finest honor we can pay to the Founders who laid out a lofty goal,” stated Williams. “And to the hundreds of thousands of Americans who gave their lives to move us closer to it.”

Williams spoke about the

incredible accomplishments America has overcome since declaring its independence and becoming a superpower in the world from what started out as an outpost in a new world.

Additionally, he shared in the pride he has knowing that while family and friends gather around the country to celebrate this holiday that nearly 184,000 Soldiers will be celebrating the 4th of July supporting combatant commanders across 140 different counties.

“I can also say with certainty, that just like today, we will still have Soldiers celebrating our Independence Day across the world,” added Williams. “Serving as beacons of liberty and freedom on this historic day for our country.”

In a community where current and retired military members make up nearly one third of the population, the military continues in its commitment of supporting the communities in which it serves. However, the population of Fairbanks and surrounding areas support their local military communities in a way unparalleled to anywhere else.

The incredible relationship shared between the civilian and military communities in Fairbanks makes for a celebration to rival other 4th of July celebrations around the country, even without a fireworks show during interior Alaska’s summer of constant daylight.

An estimated 4,000 people came together to celebrate Fairbanks’ 4th of July celebration at Pioneer Park to honor the sacrifices of the Nation’s Servicemembers and enjoy activities for all ages including a kids parade, the park’s food venders and local bands performing throughout the park.

Fairbanks Celebrates the Nation’s Independence

(Photos by Daniel Nelson, U.S. Garrison Fort Wainwright Public Affairs and Mary M . Rall, U.S. Army Alaska Public Affairs.)

5July 7, 2017 COMMUNITY CALENDARFort Wainwright Family & MWR

Weekly EventsJuly 7 – 14

Family Scenic Day Rafting July 8 8 a.m. to 6 p.m.

Take a ride on the wild side as your river guide dips and dodges past rapids on the Nenana River. This Class I, II, and III river winds its way through scenic mountain valleys near Denali National Park, and sure isn’t a trip you want to miss!Outdoor Recreation, building 4050 Call 361-6349, reservations required

Walk Off the Wait July 11 11 a.m. to Noon

Join other waiting Family Members to walk the distance of separation while you wait for your loved one to return from deployment.Physical Fitness Center, building 3709 Call 353-7223

Yoga Fitness Class July 12 5 to 5:45 p.m.

Join a certified yoga instructor for a relaxing yoga fitness class. Strengthen your body while surrounded by calm energy. Yoga meets every Monday and Wednesday.Physical Fitness Center, building 3709 Call 353-7223

Ice Cream Appreciation Day: Free Ice Cream Soda Floats & CarnivalJuly 14 5 to 7 p.m.

I scream, you scream, we all scream for ice cream! Bring friends and family together to celebrate National Ice Cream Day. Ice cream soda floats will be provided for free, as well as yard games and face painting! There’s something for everyone in the entire family! Last Frontier Community Activity Center, building 1044 Call 353-7755

Friday Family Night: Frisbee GolfJuly 14 5:30 to 8 p.m.

Join Outdoor Recreation as we head out to the Birch Hill Ski Trails off post to play some family-friendly Frisbee Golf. We will shoot the first 9 holes while hiking around and enjoying the beautiful scenery. All skills levels are welcome.Outdoor Recreation, building 4050 Call 361-6349, reservations recommended

PLEASE VISIT WAINWRIGHT.ARMYMWR.COM FOR A COMPLETE EVENT CALENDAR

@WainwrightMWR #WainwrightMWR

Upcoming Eventsnon-stop fun for everyone

Stomp Out Boredom 5k Fun Run/WalkJuly 15 11 a.m.

Join the Youth Center for a fun 5k walk or run around the community! We’ll wind our way around the neighborhood and beat boredom in the process. Registration is held on the day of the walk, and begins at 10 a.m. at the Youth Center.Youth Center, building 4109 Call 361-5437, registration required

B.O.S.S. Skydiving TripJuly 21

B.O.S.S. is going skydiving! Join in on the weekend fun. Soldiers and Airmen will travel to Wasilla for the weekend and partake in a day of skydiving. This event is open to all Single Soldiers and Airmen, Singles Soldiers with dependents, and Geobachelors. A special memo is required for all attendees of this trip, and can be obtained through a B.O.S.S. Representative or the B.O.S.S. OfficeB.O.S.S. Office building 1045, Suite 31 Call 353-7648, registration required.

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6 July 7, 2017NEWS

Friday – 7thLAP SWIM, 6 to 8 a.m. and 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., Pool inside Baker Field House, Eielson AFB, Call 377-1925.

FREE BOUNCE, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Eielson City Center, Eielson AFB, Call 377-2642.

BALLISTICS, 11 a.m., Baker Field House, Eielson AFB, Call 377-1925.

OPEN SWIM, 5 to 8 p.m., Pool inside Baker Field House, Eielson AFB, Call 377-1925.

TEEN BREAK, 7 to 10:40 p.m., Eielson Youth Center, Eielson AFB, Call 377-6336.

LT2 TRAINSPOTTING (R), 7 p.m., Ernie Walker Theater, Eielson AFB, Call 377-2269.

Saturday – 8thLAP SWIM, 10 a.m. to noon, Pool inside Baker Field House, Eielson AFB, Call 377-1925.

FREE BOUNCE, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Eielson City Center, Eielson AFB, Call 377-2642.

PIYO, 9 a.m., Baker Field House, Eielson AFB, Call 377-1925.

TABATA, 10 a.m., Baker Field House, Eielson AFB, Call 377-1925.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL, 11 a.m., 354 Sports Bar inside Yukon Club, Eielson AFB, Call 377-5219.

GIVE PARENTS A BREAK, 12:30 to 5:30 p.m., CDC, Eielson AFB, $30/child, Call 377-3237.

OPEN SWIM, 1 to 7 p.m., Pool inside Baker Field House, Eielson AFB, Call 377-1925.

GOING IN STYLE (PG-13), 7 p.m., Ernie Walker Theater, Eielson AFB, Call 377-2269.

Sunday – 9thLAP SWIM, 10 a.m. to noon, Pool inside Baker Field House, Eielson AFB, Call 377-1925.

FREE BOUNCE, 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Eielson City Center, Eielson AFB, Call 377-2642.

OPEN SWIM, 1 to 7 p.m., Pool inside Baker Field House, Eielson AFB, Call 377-1925.

BOSS BABY (PG), 2 p.m., Ernie Walker Theater, Eielson AFB, Call 377-2269.

Eielson Air Force Base

FINANCE TIPIf you are going on emergency leave please

get in contact with your First Sergeant who will coordinate your orders with your local Budget Office.

FISHING CHARTERS IN VALDEZJoin us for a Halibut or Salmon fishing

excursion in the Prince William Sound and the Gulf of Alaska aboard the “Chinook” and “English Maiden”. Charters run April 15 – Sept. 4. Call 377-1232 to register or for more information.

STORYTIME AT THE LIBRARYThe Eielson library holds story time every

Thursday from 10 to 11 a.m. for children ages 5 and younger. Come out and enjoy listening to themed story’s read by the Library staff or volunteers! Call 377-3174 for more information.

WEEKLY KIDS SEWING CLASSJoin the Arts and Crafts Center Wednesdays

from 10 to 11:30 a.m. and Saturdays from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m. for a kids sewing class! The cost is $11 per person. Each class focuses on different projects gears toward different age groups. Three children at a minimum are needed to hold the class each week and basic sewing supplies will be provided. Call 377-4880 for more information.

MEDICAL GROUP OFFERS SLEEP ENHANCEMENT CLASS

The 354th Medical Group provides sleep enhancement education classes on Tuesdays from noon to 1 p.m. The class is four weeks long and begins the first Tuesday of every month. For any questions or to register for the class, please call 377-6354.

EIELSON CHAPEL SERVICESThe Eielson Air Force Base Chapel team

offers a variety of services. Your Chaplain Corps offers Catholic and Protestant worship services each week and our multi-faith worship center can support the needs of other faith groups. For more information, call us at 377-2130.

Catholic Community:Religious Formation, 9 a.m., SundaysCatholic Mass, 10:30 a.m., SundaysSacrament of Reconciliation by appointment

Protestant Community:Contemporary Service, 9 a.m., SundaysKids Church, 9 a.m., SundaysAWANA, 4 to 6 p.m., SundaysJr./Sr. High Youth Service, 6 p.m., Wednesdays

IN BRIEF

joking with him about a waitress who worked at the North Pole Diner they frequented. Hursey had been nursing a crush for some time, and would tip the waitress the cost of the entire meal in the futile hope of getting a date.

Hursey, not taking kindly to Abernathy’s playfulness, popped him on the shoulder in a jocular manner, like young men often do. Abernathy got the message and eased up on his friend.

They conversed for a little while longer before saying goodbye.

Before leaving, Hursey asked Abernathy to deliver a message for him: “Tell everyone back home hello for me and that I’ll be seeing them soon.”

“Sure thing,” Abernathy said.The two men hugged, and as Abernathy drove away

he saw Hursey smiling at him in his rear view mirror, waving goodbye.

This would be the last time they spoke. February 27, 1963, eight o’clock in the eveningA KC-135A Stratotanker roared down the runway

for takeoff. Almost immediately, everyone working on the flightline knew something was amiss.

Airman 1st Class William Elliot was one of those Airmen. Elliot noticed the KC-135’s wingtip through his shop’s windows, and became “sick to his stomach,” because aircraft were normally well airborne by then. The KC-135A lost an engine after takeoff, and moments later Elliot heard the crash. The phones rang immediately.

Abernathy, who was driving through North Pole, remembers the details vividly.

“It lit the sky completely up, a giant fireball. It was scary and I didn’t realize a plane had crashed until I got back to Eielson.” The chaos and confusion only multiplied when Abernathy arrived back on base, where they’d already diverted traffic on the highway. “People were screaming and going crazy. There were airplane parts everywhere.”

Back on the flightline, Elliot was told to deliver portable lights and heaters to the crash site, and he quickly responded, arriving at the wreckage soon thereafter.

All Elliot could see was debris, “an engine and a large piece of a wing section.” And then he walked over to the main gate and noticed the “red brick, wood and glass structure was gone.” This was the same guard hut that Hursey was manning when he said his unknowing goodbye to Abernathy over an hour ago. The only thing remaining was, “a foot tall stump of a wooden telephone pole.” Everything else was gone, including Hursey.

Hursey’s hometown of Star, North Carolina, a town of around 750 people, was shocked when they heard about his passing.

“There were a lot of folks from his school that weren’t even in his grade that showed up to the funeral,” said Gary Mabe, a Star resident who went to high school a few years behind Hursey. “We were astonished to find he had been killed while he was on guard duty.”

Mabe shared more details about Hursey’s life before the Air Force, filling in the otherwise scant details about the type of person he was.

“Roy Lee walked two miles to and from school every day, but sometimes my father and I would stop and give him a lift.” Hursey was also an athlete who was known for staying out of trouble. “He was an excellent baseball player. He played infield in high school and was a good hitter, and I don’t ever recall hearing anything negative in regards to Roy Lee. He was someone who I looked up to growing up.”

In the days following the mishap, the Airmen of Eielson scoured the frozen ground, searching for any human remains of the departed. But there was nothing to be found because of the wintery conditions.

It wasn’t until springtime that the majority of the remains were found. The snow had melted by then and the Airmen were told “to look where the large black raven birds were scavenging.”

All told, nine Airmen lost their lives that night. All seven of the flight crew perished and two Airmen on the ground, to include Airman Second Class Martin Jones who was struck by aircraft debris while driving his vehicle.

We have the time-honored tradition of naming our installations, forward operating bases, and gates after memorable Airmen, many of whom lost their lives in the line of duty. The only way to keep the flame of their memories alive, lest they be extinguished for eternity, is to learn about them.

And now, whenever I drive out the front gate in the evening, I can picture Hursey and Abernathy standing outside on that frosty night all those decades ago, their smoky breaths puffing towards the still sky like two stovepipes. Men in their early 20’s with their whole lives ahead of them, only for one to be lost too soon.

HURSEYContinued from page 1

U.S. Air Force Airman Second Class Roy Lee

Hursey poses for an official photo circa 1961. Hursey lost

his life in the line of duty after a KC-

135 Stratotanker crashed into the

guard post he was manning shortly

after takeoff. (Photo courtesy U.S. Air

Force)

7NEWSJuly 7, 2017

training events I have played a role in. This joint training event tested our combat capabilities as the reconnaissance, surveillance, and target acquisition elements for the 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team and the US Air Force.”

“Soldiers from Bandit Troop gained experience through cohesive platoon live fire operations, working on ground with Joint Terminal Attack Controller, and observing targets for CAS/CCA,” Rainsberger continued.

“As one of the greatest assets we have as scouts, the training value was priceless,” he said.

“Following the live fires, we also had the opportunity to work with the 314th Operational Detachment Alpha Special Forces team from Fort Bragg, North Carolina. Solders were trained intensively by the Special Forces team members, ultimately leading to a culminating event that was conducted with the Special Forces team. Through our in-depth and task specific training with the 314th ODA Special Forces team, Bandit Troop and the 5-1 CAV continues to be prepared and poised for future combat readiness,” explained Rainsberger.

Blackhawk, 5-1 CAV Troopers look forward to taking part in next year’s Red Flag; employing the skills gathered there to increase their lethality in real-world scenarios.

CAVContinued from page 1

A Blackhawk Stryker of the 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team maneuvers through rough terrain during Red Flag 17-02 Exercise June in Alaska. (Photo by 1st Lt. Kalam Tanvir, 5th Squadron, 1st Cavalry Regiment, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Unit Public Affairs Representative)

1LT Jeramias OrtizTreatment Platoon Leader, Charlie Company, 25th Brigade Support Battalion

The Kamish Soldier Centered Medical Home, Fort Wainwright, Alaska serves the acute and primary care needs of over 7,000 active duty Soldiers assigned to the post.

Within Kamish, bay two is staffed by Soldiers that are assigned to various battalions to include Charlie Company, 25th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade, 25th Infantry Division.

Although a total of seven battalions utilize bay two to provide care for their Soldiers, C Co. BSB provides the core essential staff necessary for day-to-day clinical operations.

On any given day, five medical providers, six to eight medics, two patient administration clerks, and one registered nurse all work in bay two.

Additionally, the laboratory, dental clinic, physical therapy, audiology, and radiology services all have highly trained technicians from C Co. who stay busy.

The daily operations keep providers and medic teams on their toes from early morning until they input their final notes into Army Forces Health Longitudinal Technology Application at the end of the day.

1st Lt. Bushman, physician assistant, C Co., 25th BSB states, “The effort is well worth it, and makes this place a fine place to work and a remarkable place to receive medical care.”

The Kamich auxiliary services are the driving force behind Soldier readiness for the 1st Striker Brigade Combat Team.

Auxiliary services like audiology sees 80 to 100 Soldiers a day, all of which require documentation for their hearing exam in ALTHA. At 6:30 a.m., laboratory

experts are ready for their first customer and are prepared to conduct phlebotomies and rapid tests. Radiology sees an average of 18 to 30 Soldiers a day; each x-ray can take between 10 to 20 minutes to complete.

Lastly, physical therapy, is the place that seems to do it all. Depending on the injury and the severity, Soldiers may see the physical therapist for a variety of reasons like diagnosis of injury, receiving a prescription, a potential referral to a specialist, or receiving dry needling and manipulation and much more.

Capt. Amanda Hartley, brigade physical therapist, C Co. BSB tells many of her patients “I believe in patient

education. I don't make you better, I give you the tools to make yourself better.”

She adds, “out of all the issues we see, therapy we provide, and reminders we give, the most repetitive one is, stretch more outside of work!”

Staff members take great care to ensure Soldiers receive world class health care.

Capt. Michael Barry, brigade nurse, C Co. BSB, states, “The clinic staff takes great pride in playing our part for readiness and deployability of Soldiers within the Brigade.”

C Co., 25th BSB leads the charge in all services that are provided across all entities.

Charlie Company, 25th BSB takes pride in caring

Charlie Company, 25th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade, 25th Infantry Division lavatory Soldiers are hard at work at The Kamish Soldier Centered Medical Home, Fort Wainwright, Alaska. (Photo by 1Lt. Jeramias Ortiz, Treatment Platoon Leader, Charlie Company, 25th Brigade Support Battalion, 1st Stryker Brigade Combat Team, 25th Infantry Division)