Capflyer 010915

AN INDEPENDENT PUBLICATION OF COMPRINTMILITARY PUBLICATIONS AT JOINT BASE ANDREWS,MD.DCMILITARY.COM FRIDAY, JANUARY 9, 2015 | VOL. 4 NO. 1

AIR FORCE NEWSMembers to perform at Super Bowl events, Page 3

BASE NEWSWalls are going up, construction

continues, Page 5

COMMENTARYThe Air Force issued me my ‘kids’,

Page 2

11TH WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

Joint Base Andrews is sched-uled to hold a free air show, fea-turing the Air Force’s premieraerial demonstration team, theU.S. Air Force Thunderbirds,Sept. 19.

The 2015 Joint Base An-drews Air Show will commemo-rate the Air Force’s 68th birth-day, the 100th anniversary ofthe Naval Reserves, along withother major military milestones

to be announced at a later date.“The 2015 JBA Air Show

marks the return of the larg-est military event in the Na-tion Capital Region and willculminate the Air Force’s birth-day celebration,” said Col. BradHoagland, Joint Base Andrewsand 11th Wing commander.“The Thunderbirds demon-strate the Air Force’s air supe-riority.”

The air show will also fea-

Air show returns to JointBase Andrews in 2015

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO/ AIRMAN 1ST CLASS MELISSA RODRIGUES

Joint Base Andrews is scheduled to hold a free air show, featur-ing the Air Force’s premier aerial demonstration team, the U.S.Air Force Thunderbirds, Sept. 19. The 2015 Joint Base AndrewsAir Show will commemorate the Air Force’s 68th birthday, the100th anniversary of the Naval Reserves, along with other majormilitary milestones to be announced at a later date.

see AIR SHOW, page 4

BY ELIZABETH WATERSSPECIAL TO ANDREWS GAZETTE

On Dec. 19, the AndrewsAttic held their annual Chil-dren’s Christmas party. Theparty was open to all E-5 andbelow families on Joint BaseAndrews, regardless of branchof service. Approximately 100children were treated to a visitby Santa and the opportunityto receive a free picture onSanta’s lap, courtesy of Kara

Prince Photography. Eachchild received a free toy madepossible by the Andrews Fed-eral Credit Union. Refresh-ments and snack goodie bagswere provided to all participat-ing families courtesy of TraderJoe’s and Giant Foods throughan Attic benefactor, LillyPierce from Charity for Roma-nia. Door prizes were won byhard working parents; and fivelucky families received $100gift cards thanks to a contribu-

tion from an anonymous donor.The Andrews Attic is a

free thrift shop for E-5 and be-low military singles and fami-lies on Joint Base Andrewsand the surrounding NationalCapital Region, easing theirfinancial burden in tryingtimes. The daily operations arerun by a team of volunteers ledby military spouse and AtticManager, Holly McHugh.

Annual Andrews AtticChildren’s ChristmasParty brings somefood, laughter, fun

PHOTO/ELIZABETH WATERS

Attic Manager Holly McHugh, pictured with son, Conner, at the Annual Andrews Attic Children’sChristmas party where children were treated to toys and pictures with Santa.

see PARTY, page 6

BY LESLIE C. SMITHSTAFF WRITER

The Community EmergencyResponse Team (CERT) is of-fering education and trainingin disaster preparedness for thecommunity.

James Morrow, VolunteerService Coordinator, who headsup the CERT Programs train-ing coordination, explainedthat training will cover an ar-ray of basic disaster responseskills such as fire safety, lightsearch and rescue, team orga-nization and disaster medicaloperations. “If any natural or

manmade disaster occurs hav-ing the ability to know what todo during those times providesa sense of assuredness. It mayseem daunting; but it’s thatbase knowledge that gives youa feeling of security. You neverknow what you are capable of– even professionals don’t knowuntil they are in the situation– but the more you know andas in all things if you train, andtrain consistently, you havethat sense of security. It’s thatbase to go back to; and duringthat situation, perhaps, you cansay, ‘Yes I can do this.’ ”

Feel secure during a disasterwith CERT training

see TRAINING, page 6

Andrews Gazette2 Friday, January 9, 2015

Andrews Gazette is published by Comprint MilitaryPublications, 9030 Comprint Court, Gaithersburg,Md., a private firm in no way connected with the U.S.Air Force or any branch of the United States military.The appearance of advertising in these publications,

including inserts or supplements, does not constitute endorsementby the Department of Defense, the Department of the Air Force orthe products and services advertised.

Everything advertised in this publication shall be made available forpurchase, use or patronage without regard to race, color, religion,sex, national origin, age,martial status, physical handicap, political af-filiation or any other nonmerit factor of the purchases, user or patron.

COMPRINT MILITARY PUBLICATIONS

Maxine Minar, [email protected]

John Rives, [email protected]

Deirdre Parry, page [email protected]

Leslie Smith, [email protected]

Bobby Jones, [email protected]

Saturdays and SundaysSaturdays and SundaysBumper Cars on IceTucker Road Ice Rink, 1770 Tucker Road, Fort

Washington, Md. 20744 Solo riders must be ages 6& up; riders ages 5 & under must ride with an adult.Last ride begins 10 minutes prior to the end of thesession. Rides are on a first-come, first-served basis.Fees are based on 1 person per ride; each ride is4-5 minutes in length. Prince George’s County Resi-dents: $5/ages 18 & up, $4/ages 6-17; Non-Resident:$6/ages 18 & up, $5/ages 6-17 For more informationcall 301-265-1525; TTY 301-446-6802

January 9 – February 20(Closed Wednesdays) CMIT Annual Student Art

Exhibit11 a.m.-4 p.m.Montpelier Mansion/Historic Site, 9650 Muirkirk

Road, Laurel, MD 20708 Each year, different venueshost the annual CMIT art exhibit. This year, Mont-pelier is honored to display the work of these talent-ed young artists from this Laurel charter school. Thetheme for this year’s exhibit is Autumn Landscapes& Scenes; students have interpreted this theme andwill display a major art piece from the school year.Exhibit is free with cost of admission: $3/Adults; $2/Seniors (60 & better); $1/Children 6-18; FREE forchildren 5 & younger. For more information, call301-377-7817; TTY 301-699-2455 or visit [email protected]

January 9-24Shot in the DarkFriday, Saturday 8 p.m. and Sunday 2 p.m.Bowie Playhouse, White Marsh Park, Bowie, MD

Prince George’s Little Theater Inc. presents A Shotin the Dark about a good hearted, guileless childof nature hauled before the magistrate on a chargeof murder, having been found unconscious, nude,and clutching a gun, with her lover dead beside her.What is most shocking to the magistrate is the com-plete frankness with which she describes her life asa parlor maid and her affairs with both the deadchauffeur and her aristocratic employer.

For more information or tickets, 301-937-PGLT(7458) or [email protected]

January 9-11Julius Caesar by William ShakespeareGreenbelt Arts Center, 123 Centerway, Green-

belt, MD 20770 Presented by the Rude MechanicalsAdult $20, students (22 and under) $16 Senior $16Military $16 Youth (12 and under)$12 For more in-formation or tickets, visit http://greenbeltartscenter.org or call 301-441-8770.

Hot ticketsaround town

Missing 1099RIf you have not received your

1099R tax statement from theDefense Finance and AccountingService, copies may be obtainedin several ways. The fastest andmost secure way is myPay. Log into myPay, and print your 1099R.If not a myPay user, use the tele-phone. Self service requests aresent to your current address of re-cord within three business days.Call 1 800 321-1080. If your mail-ing address is not current, you canupdate your mailing address, enteryour e-mail address, and requestyour 1099R on one form. Completeinstructions on www.dfas.mil/re-tiredmilitary. For traditional mail,send a written request by fax ormail. It takes us 30 to 60 days toprocess requests received by fax ormail. Members with unique situa-tions can speak directly to a cus-tomer care representative.

Movies, Video GamesMilitary families can turn the

lights down, grab a bag of popcornand prepare for movie night as theArmy & Air Force Exchange Ser-vice and Red Box have rolled outa new way to rent the hottest mov-

ies and video games. Some 167 RedBox vending machines, deployedby the Exchange, provide afford-able and convenient opportuni-ties to rent DVDs, Blu-Ray discsand video games. Red Box rentalsare charged at a daily rate. Newreleases start at $1.20 for DVDs,$1.50 for Blu-Ray discs, $2 for vid-eo games. New releases are addedevery Tuesday. Online rentals areavailable as well. Shoppers selecttheir favorite movies and games atredbox.com and pick them up fromthe kiosk during the next visit tothe exchange store. Returning mov-ies is made even simpler by allow-ing customers to return movies andvideo games to any Red Box kiosklocation.

Help Your SurvivorsSometimes the most difficult

conversations to have are the mostimportant, like preparing yourloved ones for your death. Talk-ing to your family about this topicbeforehand shows that you care,and it will help to ease financialburdens they may face. Militaryretirees can have beneficiaries fortheir arrears of pay (AOP), and ifthey have elected coverage under

the Survivor Benefit Plan, they willhave an SBP beneficiary as well.Ideally, you’ve designated yourbeneficiaries for any arrears of paythat may be due. When no ben-eficiary is named, the payment ismade in the Order of Precedence. Itcan take months to locate survivorsand identify who comes highest inthe Order of Precedence. Having acurrent beneficiary designation onfile with the Defense Accountingand Finance Center is important.Designating a sole beneficiary inyour will does not automaticallymake that person your AOP ben-eficiary. Entitlement to your mili-tary retirement ends when you die.Most banks will automatically de-duct overpaid funds without warn-ing. It depends how up to date theaccount was kept. Have a conver-sation today. For more information,call DFAS at 1 800 321-1080.

The Retiree Activities Office isopen 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Mondaythrough Friday. Visit the office inBuilding 1604 at California andColorado Avenues or call 301 981-2726. Call before your visit to ensurea volunteer is on duty. The RAO hasa website at www.andrews.af.mil.

Retiree Corner

BY STAFF SGT. NICHOLAS RAU460TH SPACE WING PUBLIC AFFAIRS

While I’ve decided to live thechild-free lifestyle, the Air Force,in its infinite wisdom, saw the needto issue me two kids. They are bothstraight out of technical trainingand brand new to the Air Force --and one is still too young to acceptan adult beverage.

Let’s be honest: As children do,they totally cut into my “me time.”

In all seriousness, though, theseAirmen are bright, young womenwith an incredible future ahead ofthem, and I am duty-bound to en-sure that doesn’t change.

Perhaps like many supervisors,sometimes I feel like a parent. Iam responsible for these ladiesand their development as Airmen.I have a vested interest in theirsuccess and a powerful role in theirmorale.

Sometimes that responsibilityis easy, but sometimes that respon-sibility bolts me into action in themiddle of the night.

One of my Airmen calls me fromthe side of the busiest highway inDenver, nearly in tears, and tellsme that she had just been in herfirst car accident. Like any goodparent would do, I jump out of bedin my pajama pants and head outthe door without thinking twice. Ina flurry of hands-free phone calls toour first sergeant and my Airman,who is now backing up the highway

for miles, we square everythingaway and get her back to base withthe help of the police and a towtruck driver.

It was after everything was tak-en care of and she was back in herroom that I truly realized being asupervisor was about more thansolving a problem.

It was time to listen. She had beenthrough her first car accident ever.She was in a brand new city. Shewas on her own for the first time. Allthings combined, I understood whyshe was so distraught. For me, thiswas a challenge to overcome; but forher, this may have been one of hermost terrifying experiences. I knewI had to listen.

This experience taught me twovaluable lessons. One, if my Airmenare in trouble, I need them to knowthat they can trust me to take careof them. And two, I need a new pairof pajama pants because crushedblue velvet went out of style twodecades ago.

But how do I get these youngAirmen to trust me? I am nearly 10years older, and entire generationseparates my interests from theirs.How can I relate?

I became the next SherlockHomes, paying attention to the lit-tle details to find common ground.My investigative eye was on over-drive as I tried to learn more aboutmy other Airman.

She is quieter and a bit lessoutspoken, but she is unbelievably

artistic. Her talent with a drawingpencil makes me look like a pre-schooler with a crayon. What do ayoung, female Michelangelo and Ihave in common? During a dormroom inspection, I observe pop cul-ture posters on the walls and spother video game system; I can relateto that.

Paying attention to my Airmanallowed me a glimpse into her life.Still, was this enough to get her toconnect with the oldest person inher work center?

It came down to what my dad didwith me for our father-son bonding.He introduced me to Star Wars andStar Trek, engrained classic rockinto my head, and shared outland-ish stories of his past. These mo-ments brought me closer to him, soI thought it might work with myAirmen.

Well, now they know more 1980smusic than they ever thought theywould, and they have heard more“old-man” stories than they prob-ably wished to hear. It took willing-ness from both sides to adapt, butat the end of the day, we built thatAirman-supervisor connection.

I honestly feel that they cantrust me. They can come to me withnot only problems I can listen to orhelp solve, but also with the suc-cesses they have achieved. Hearingthat they won an award or werelauded by the commander givesme the same level of joy and pride

CommentaryThe Air Force issued me my ‘kids’

see KIDS, page 4

Andrews GazetteFriday, January 9, 2015 3

BY LESLIE C. SMITHSTAFF WRITER

Dec. 5, at the monthlymeeting of the PrinceGeorge’s County Com-mission on Veterans,held the first Monday ofeach month, met to dis-cuss the annual reportas well as the resultsof the last Veterans Fo-cus Group, the second ofthree scheduled meet-ings held at the BowieDAV post. The aim ofthese meetings are togather the ideas andthoughts on specificquestions on what thecounty should do – ifthe county should doanything – regarding ac-quiring a local VeteransAffairs office.

During these focusgroup meetings, the at-tendees are divided intogroups, with commis-sioners leading eachgroup, to better facilitatediscussion and to focuson answering discovery

questions including: thepressing concerns of themilitary community; bestways to attract militaryveterans to remain inthe county working, liv-ing and raising families;as well as what shouldbe the functions of a lo-cal office.

“If we aren’t repre-sented – just like if don’t

vote – then you’re not atthe table. And shame onus because the CountyExecutive is giving us –us being veterans – theopportunity to say whatwe need to help makethis a better county forour Veterans, veteranswho are living here aswell veterans that maywant to come here to

Prince George’s County.So here is our opportu-nity to explain to himwhat is of importanceto us and will keep usand our families here inPrince George’s County,”said Henry C. Turner Jr.,

who is heading the feasi-bility study.

The next focus groupis scheduled for Jan. 22,7 to 9 p.m. at the Ameri-can Legion Post 275 inGlenarden. The Com-mission is asking for lo-

cal veterans to attendthe meeting and shareideas for how they seethe functionality of a lo-cal Veterans Affairs of-fice, as well as ideas onretaining and attractingnew veterans to the area.

Commission on Veterans seeks the ideas from local veterans

BY MASTER SGT.ERIC SULLIVAN ANDTECHNICAL SGT.MATTHEW GEIST

NFL football is nearlydone for the year, andthat means just one thingto its legions of rabidfans: Super Bowl. TheUnited States Air ForceBand is gearing up forthe big game with a se-ries of performances be-ginning in late January,starting with the annualPro Bowl and culminat-ing at the Super BowlXLIX on Feb. 1. If youwatched last year’s SuperBowl, you may have seenmembers of the SingingSergeants proudly repre-senting the Air Force tothe world during the na-tional anthem ceremony,which featured interna-tional opera star ReneeFleming. This year, weare proud to report thatonce again the Bandhas been asked to par-ticipate in the party andpageantry that is SuperBowl Week that will beheld in sunny Glendale,Arizona from Jan. 25 toFeb. 1, 2015.

On Jan. 25, the NFLPro Bowl takes a hiatusfrom Hawaii and makesa first-ever appearancein Arizona at the Uni-versity of Phoenix Sta-

dium in Glendale, theregular home of the Ari-zona Cardinals and thesite of Super Bowl XLIXthe following week. Justbefore the game, twopercussionists from theCeremonial Brass willplay for the presentationof the national colors by

a joint color guard priorto the singing of the na-tional anthem. SeniorMaster Sgt. Chris Martinhas a unique perspectiveon the event, having par-ticipated in Super BowlsXLIV and XLV. “This isan incredible opportu-nity for us. Watching it

on television doesn’t giveyou any idea of how hugethe operation is--fromthe different countriesreporting, the celebritiesin the stands and back-stage--it’s truly a globalevent and not just a foot-ball game.”

As the week rolls on,

so do the Band’s perfor-mances. On Jan. 29, theAir Force Strings, led byChief Master Sgt. Debo-rah Volker, will provide atouch of class and sophis-tication as they providea strolling show for theNFL Owner’s dinner.

The following day

sees a 180 degree musi-cal turn as the premierrock band of the U.S. AirForce, Max Impact, takesthe stage. They will beperforming a mix of origi-nal tunes and contempo-rary and classic favoritesduring a high-energyshow at the VH1 “Saluteto the Troops” concert onLuke Air Force Base.

Finally, on Sunday,Feb. 1, a week of celebrat-ing America’s greatestsports spectacle reachesits climax with the forty-ninth Super Bowl. TheBand will once againhave a presence withinthe national anthemceremony, with two ropedrummers from the Cer-emonial Brass playingfor a joint service colorguard during the pre-sentation of the nationalcolors.

The Unites States AirForce Band is honoredand excited to representthe Air Force core valuesof “Integrity, Excellenceand Service” to the worldat Super Bowl XLIX. Ifyou’re lucky enough tohave tickets, please sayhello when you see us.(And save us a seat!)Otherwise, check your lo-cal listings for game andevent times, and enjoythe show.

Members to perform at Super Bowl events

Members of the Ceremonial Brass perform with a joint-service color team at the 2011 Super Bowl. Two Cer-emonial Brass members will play as a joint-service color team presents the national colors at the 2015 ProBowl and Super Bowl.

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BY MASTER SGT. ERIC SULLIVAN

Most of the time, Master Sgt. JakeMcCray serves an tenor saxophonist inthe Concert Band. However, last year,he packed up his bags and deployedto the Middle East as a member of theAir Force Central Command Band (AF-CENT Band). Currently, he has putaside his horn for a while and traveledback to Southeast Asia to be the direc-tor of Operations (DO) for the AFCENTBand. I recently had the chance tospeak with McCray about his currentdeployment, the differences betweenplaying and doing ops, and the impor-tance of the DO in a deployed environ-ment.

What caused you to wantto do a second deployment?And, why did you want to doops instead of play?

This deployment is different than thelast one, because I’m functioning in anadministrative role rather than a play-ing capacity.

The director of Operations is a posi-tion I’ve wanted to assume since I washere the last time. I enjoyed my deploy-ment in 2013, and I wanted to comeback in any capacity that I could. I knewI would enjoy creating tours that meetthe requirements of our commandersand sponsors, while utilizing the lessonslearned from the past to simultaneouslyoptimize efficiency and take care of theband. As someone who has deployedas a performer, I can relate to the upsand downs of touring in an operationalenvironment. I’m trying to use my ex-periences in planning for the future, tobenefit both the customers and bandmembers.

What are the big differencesbetween the ops job and theperformer job?

As a band member your primary fo-cus is your instrument and performing.

After that, your concerns are stayinghealthy, not getting hurt and movingthe equipment back and forth betweenperformances. The director of Opera-tions position is in no way a musicalor performing position. Of course, itis beneficial to have performing expe-rience, since having a musical back-ground helps to inform decision mak-ing and communication with sponsors.The roles and responsibilities of this jobare many. As director of Operations, I’mtasked with booking performances, se-curing lodging, airlift and ground trans-portation, coordinating advertising withsponsors, and a myriad of other issues.And keep in mind, any of these pieces ofthe puzzle can change at the last min-ute, causing a cascading effect upon theothers. How one manages those chal-lenges is the mark of a successful DO,in my opinion.

Best thing about deployment?I think the best thing about being de-

ployed is the amount of time you haveto yourself, and what that affords you.While it’s true that one is very busycompleting the mission all through-out the day and into the night, it’s thethings that one doesn’t have to dealwith back home that makes for a muchsimpler experience. And what I mean bythat, is that there is no daily commute,you don’t have to cook or clean. All of themeals are prepared for you in the caf-eterias. Also, everything is within walk-ing distance, so all of the normal day today responsibilities are virtually gone.It makes for a much simpler, and in myview, a more peaceful existence.

Worst?The worst thing about the deploy-

ment is being separated from my lovedones back home, and missing many im-

portant milestones, including all of theholidays, and my mother’s birthday, justto name a few. Something else I’ll missis seeing the changing of the leaves inthe fall and the snowfall throughout thewinter, something I enjoy very much. I’llalso miss a major milestone, the retire-ment of my first saxophone teacher whois retiring from the U..S. Army Bandafter 28 years of service. That is quitean accomplishment, and I would haveloved to have represented The U.S. AirForce Band at his ceremony. However,this mission is a fine reason to miss thatevent.

Finally, what are you lookingforward to the most duringthis deployment?

I’m looking forward to helping tocreate and facilitate trips and perfor-mances that bring joy and excitementto our people through the OperationalEnvironment. One of the components ofour job here in the AFCENT Band is tobuild partnerships with the nations inthis region, and we do that with educa-tional outreach events and public con-certs. Often times, these appearancesare in schools or other public gatheringplaces. These performances present atremendous opportunity to provide avery positive and uplifting image of theUnited States, and I’m happy to have asmall role in that responsibility. But tobe honest, I’m most looking forward totraveling, and I hope to have the chanceto do much of that, particularly to Af-ghanistan. Having traveled there on myprevious deployment, I can attest to thebreathtaking landscapes of the moun-tains and the stark horizons in the ruralregions. It is such a beautiful, remote,and often times very primitive region.To be one of the few Americans whohave actually set foot in the country andhave some sort of positive impact on ourown troop morale, and impart a smallportion of progress to the society is anhonor and privilege, and something I donot take for granted.

So much to do when deployed

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO/SENIOR AIRMAN SCOTT SALDUKAS

Master Sgt. Jake McCray performs with the Air Force Central Command Band“Vector” on The Boardwalk at Kandahar Airfield, Afghanistan, April 16, 2013.McCray is currently serving as director of Operations for the Air Force CentralCommand Band.

ture a myriad of attractions on theground to include static displays ofmodern and vintage/legacy aircraft,and Joint Base Andrews assets suchas the USAF Honor Guard and theUSAF Band.

“The Air Show is Joint Base An-drews’ opportunity to say thank youto our community, the state and theNational Capital Region for all theirincredible support, and we hope ev-eryone will come out and enjoy theshow.”

The show will feature entertain-ment for all ages.

“We have been working with lo-cal community partners from PrinceGeorges’ County and across the NCR.We are expecting an awe-inspiringexperience for the public,” said Maj.Marc Milligan, JBA Airshow 2015 di-rector.

The air show will be open to all in-terested in attending. More details onaerial performances will be availableat a later date.

Visit www.andrews.af.mil for up-dates on the 2015 JBA Air Show asthey become available.

AIR SHOW, from page 1

as they have. I am proud of my Airmenand they have become more than a re-quired responsibility to me.

The best thing I have found is thatevery supervisor can come to feel thisway. All it takes is a desire to be a part

of their Airmen’s lives and a genuineinterest in their well-being. Find yourconnections, build them and adapt asnecessary, and don’t give up on yourAirmen.

For me, regardless of whether or notthese young ladies are my blood, I wishonly the best of success for my “daugh-ters.”

KIDS, from page 2

USAF BAND SPREADS CHEER

TO CHILDREN

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO BY SENIOR AIRMAN MARIAH HADDENHAM

Members of the United States Air Force Band play for children at the Child Devel-opment Center on Joint Base Andrews, Dec.19, 2014. The band played a variety ofholiday favorites at all three child development centers and the Imagine AndrewsCharter School.


BY DOD NEWS, DEFENSEMEDIA ACTIVITY

The Department of Defenseannounced the 2015 militarypay and compensation ratesfor service members, with mostservice members receiving aone percent increase in basicpay.

The new rates for basic pay,basic allowance for housing,basic allowance for subsis-tence, and the cost of living al-lowance rates for the contigu-ous United States will takeeffect on Jan. 1.

Basic pay for service mem-bers will increase one percent,except for general and flag of-ficers who will not see an in-crease in 2015. For example, anE-4 with 3 years of service willsee an increase in basic payof $22.20 per month, while anO-3 with 6 years of service willreceive a basic pay increase of$54.30 per month in 2015.

Basic allowance for housingrates for service members in2015 will increase on average$17 per month, or 0.5 percent.Rates are calculated usingmedian current market rentand average utilities (includ-ing electricity, heat, and wa-ter/sewer) for each pay grade,both with and without depen-dents. Two changes were madeto BAH rate computations for2015: renter’s insurance, which

contributed an average of onepercent to rates, was eliminat-ed, and the Fiscal Year 2015National Defense Authoriza-tion Act reduced housing rateson average one percent for ser-vice members.

However, individual rateprotection for service membersremains an integral part ofthe BAH program. This meansthat even if BAH rates decline- including through the elimi-nation of renter’s insuranceand the reduction in the calcu-lated rate - a service memberwho maintains uninterruptedBAH eligibility in a given lo-cation will not see a rate de-crease. This ensures that ser-vice members who have madelong-term commitments in theform of a lease or contract arenot penalized if local housingcosts decrease.

Service members can cal-culate their BAH payment byusing the basic allowance forhousing calculator at: http://www.defensetravel.dod.mil/site/bahCalc.cfm.

The 2015 basic allowancefor subsistence rates for mili-tary members will increase by2.9 percent over last year. Thenew rates are:

* $367.92 per month for en-listed members

* $253.38 per month for of-ficers

The annual adjustments to

basic allowance for subsistence-- a monthly nontaxable cashpayment to military membersintended to be used to buy food-- are linked to changes in foodprices as measured by the an-nual change in the U.S. De-partment of Agriculture Costof Food at Home Index. Fromthe beginning of October 2013through the end of September2014, the index rose by 2..9percent, forming the basis forthe increased BAS rates.

The Defense Department al-so released its 2015 contiguousUnited States cost of living al-lowance rates. Roughly 12,000members will see a decrease intheir CONUS COLA payments,while some 7,000 members willsee an increase or no change,and 4,000 members will no lon-ger receive a CONUS COLApayment.

CONUS COLA is a taxablesupplemental allowance de-signed to help offset higherprices in high-cost locations,and rates vary based on loca-tion, pay grade, years of serviceand dependent status. Ratescan increase or decrease de-pending on the prices in a spe-cific duty location compared toprices in an average CONUSlocation. Service members cancalculate their CONUS COLArate at: http://www.defense-travel.dod.mil/site/conusCalc.cfm.

DoD releases 2015 militarypay, compensation rates

The Security Forces Blotteris intended to keep members ofthe Joint Base Andrews Com-munity informed and aware ofthe crimes and offenses thatoccur throughout the base eachweek. If you have any infor-mation that may help SecurityForces solve a crime or preventa criminal act, please contactBDOC (Base Defense Opera-tions Center) at 301-981-2001,CRIME STOP LINE 981-2677(COPS, or the investigationssection at 301-981-5656).

Dec. 30 at 9:32 p.m. 2014:Security Forces received ananonymous tip through the“LiveSafe” app reporting twoillegally parked vehicles on

Laurel Dr. Patrols respondedand cited violators accord-ingly.

Dec. 31 at 5:34 p.m. 2014:An individual contacted Se-curity Forces to report dam-age to their vehicle. The in-dividual stated “they noticedthe damage when they wereleaving the Shoppette.” Thedamages consisted of multiplescratches and paint transferon the passenger side of thevehicle. Patrols respondedand conducted a written state-ment.

Jan. 2 at 7:46 p.m.: Atthe Main Gate, Security Forc-es stopped an individual at-

Security Forces Police Blotter

BY MELANIE MOORE79TH MEDICAL WING PUBLIC AF-

FAIRS OFFICER

On Dec. 18, 79th MedicalWing Commander, Maj. Gen.Roosevelt Allen and CommandChief Master Sgt. Michelle Thor-steinson awarded a Stripes forExceptional Performers, Techni-cal Sergeant promotion to StaffSgt. Matthew Shaffer.

Sgt. Shaffer is a BiomedicalEquipment Repair Craftsmanassigned to the 579th MedicalGroup at Joint Base Anacostia-Bolling.

Sgt. Shaffer has distin-guished himself as the ledfor Pacific Command Medi-cal Equipment Repair Centermissions, pivotal to Pacific AirForces’ Medical Logistics LargeAccount of the Year recognition.As Afghan National Army Advi-sor, he led convoy and transla-tor teams through over 70 com-bat missions being awarded theArmy Commendation Medal.

He led 26 personnel in the ex-ecution of 54 details as FlightSergeant for the base HonorGuard. Furthermore, Sgt. Shaf-fer distinguish himself by win-ning the Airman Leadership

School, John L. Levitow Award.He has also completed his Com-munity College of the Air ForceAssociates degree and is pursu-ing a Bachelor’s degree in Infor-mation Technology.

79th Medical Wing presentsSTEP Promotion

On Dec. 18, 79th Medical Wing Commander, Maj. Gen. RooseveltAllen and Command Chief Master Sgt. Michelle Thorsteinsonawarded a Stripes for Exceptional Performers, Technical Ser-geant promotion to Staff Sgt. Matthew Shaffer.

see POLICE, page 7

BY KATHLEEN CANFIELD779TH MEDICAL SUPPORT

SQUADRON

Construction on the newMalcolm Grow Medical Clinicsand Surgery Center (MGMC-SC) is beginning to take shapeand the walls are going up.

“The project is now 34 per-cent complete. Approximately3,000 truck-loads of concretehave been placed and morethan 825 tons of structuralsteel and five miles of under-ground piping installed. Thesteel framework for the build-ing has been assembled anda large portion of the precastpanel walls have been posi-tioned so that the facility cannow be seen while travelingalong West Perimeter or Allen-town Road,” said Capt. DerekFindlay, 779th Medical Group,Project Health Facilities Of-ficer.

Over the next severalmonths, metal roofing will beinstalled and the large cranewill be moved to begin con-struction on the foundationfor the parking garage. Otheron-going activities includeinstallation of windows, elec-trical wiring, and plumbing.Infrastructure equipment willsoon be delivered to the cen-tral energy plant.

The new multi-story build-ing will encompass more than300,000 square feet and willbe home to an ambulatorycare and surgery center, emer-gent care center, physical andoccupational therapy, fam-ily health facilities and spacefor specialty clinics and otherancillary services. The proj-ect includes the constructionof a new dental clinic, whichwill be co-located within themain medical campus provid-

ing ease of access for patientsand staff.

“The new facility will havestate of the art operating roomcapability, very similar in de-sign to surgical suites at WalterReed National Military Medi-cal Center and Fort BelvoirCommunity Hospital. Armyand Navy surgeons will be ableto operate at MGMCSC, just asour providers go to those facili-ties now,” said Findlay.

The military constructionproject is expected to be com-pleted by 2017. The latest newsand updates can be found onthe 79th Medical Wing’s web-site located at www.79MDW.af.mil and the 779th MedicalGroup Facebook page.

Walls are going up,construction continues

AIR FORCE PHOTO/MELANIE MOORE

Construction on the new Mal-colm Grow Medical Clinics andSurgery Center (MGMCSC) isbeginning to take shape andthe walls are going up. The newmulti-story building will encom-pass more than 300,000 squarefeet and will be home to anambulatory care and surgerycenter, emergent care center,physical and occupationaltherapy, family health facilitiesand space for specialty clinicsand other ancillary services.The project includes the con-struction of a new dental clinic,which will be co-located withinthe main medical campusproviding ease of access forpatients and staff.


“This event is typical of how the An-drews Attic supports the military com-munity here,” said McHugh.

“It is also simply amazing and heart-warming to see how the surroundingcommunity supports our enlisted per-sonnel through this kind of giving,”McHugh said, adding that Trader Joe’sand Giant foods donate perishable foodto the Attic on a weekly basis. The Bran-dywine Chick-Fil-A provides monthlycomplimentary meals to the all-vol-unteer staff, and the Andrews FederalCredit Union routinely supports the At-tic with money for supplies and eventssuch as the Children’s Christmas party.

MSgt Jeremy Peagler, Attic CouncilPresident, said, “An average of 70 – 150military personnel and their families

shop in the Attic every time the doorsare open, and they come from all overthe region.” The Andrews Attic receivestons in donations every year, which thevolunteers sort and use to stock theshelves, accruing hundreds of volunteerhours. Additionally, Andrews Attic pro-vides a non-perishable food bank anddiaper bank for the E-5 and below popu-lation in more critical need by referralfrom a First Sergeant or Supervisor. Inconjunction with the Andrews Spouses’Club Thrift Shop, a separate entity, theAttic recently opened a military uni-form shopping room that is completelyfree to all ranks of active duty military,full-time and part-time Guard and Re-serve, ROTC and Civil Air Patrol.

The Attic is always looking for morevolunteers. Please contact the Attic di-rectly to find out more about volunteer-ing opportunities.

PHOTO/ELIZABETH WATERS

Andrews Attic depends on volunteers like Kaya and Lisa to sort and stock dona-tions from the surrounding community, as well as, run the daily operations of theAttic.

PARTY, from page 1

Morrow further explained that dur-ing training a person can expect allthe basics of disaster management toinclude: disaster psychology in orderto speak to people involved in a disas-ter; working in a disaster in order tohelp a neighbor by knowing the risksand how to adjust to those risks andbasic disaster medical training includ-ing when to move someone as well asdealing with the ‘walking wounded.’

“For example if there is a tornado– how to make assessment of buildingand mark the building or indicate theindividuals you have helped,” Morrowexplained.

“You will also gain a better under-standing of basic CERRT organization,knowing when to step back when firstresponders arrive – the order of thingsif you will,” Morrow said.

Morrow added that participantswill also receive education in whatterrorists are looking for; knowing thedefinition of a terrorist.

The training is comprised of class-room instruction as well as hands-ontraining.

“We recognize that people havelives and wanted to make the classesmore flexible, classes are during theweek and the weekend,” Morrow said.

There are several upcoming train-ing sessions. In College Park the ses-sion is Jan. 10, 24, 31 and Feb. 7 tar-geting College Park residents. There isa session in Cheltenham Jan. 22 -24for adults.

The CERT training in Cheltenhamon Feb. 14 and 15 is family-orientedtraining.

“I know some people might balk attraining on Valentine’s Day but whatother time is more ideal to train fordisaster preparedness so that you cantake care of your loved ones and leadthem to safety in the case of naturalor manmade disaster,” Morrow shared.

The office is looking for volunteersin all areas. Some might be thinkingthis training is above their head butyou can serve in a number of areas.There is a need before, during and af-ter a disaster also. “We need help in allareas – help moving debris, help in thesheltering centers, to read to children;or perhaps you are a carpenter or elec-trician and can offer your skills in therebuild process.” Volunteers can behigh school students on up to seniors.”

If you are interested in the train-ing or volunteering, call 240-786-8714or 301-780-8255 or visit Eventbrite.com and search CERT training PrinceGeorge’s County.

TRAINING, from page 1

For more news from other bases around the Washington, D.C. area,

visit www.dcmilitary.com.

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BY MATHEW B. TULLY

Q. What kind of trouble could aservice member get into for enteringa sham marriage?

A. Housing and immigration ben-efits are usually the objects of shammarriages. Service members who en-ter into a marriage for the purpose ofwrongfully obtaining such benefitscould end up facing charges such asmaking false official statements andlarceny of military property in viola-tion of Articles 107 and 121 of theUniform Code of Military Justice.

It is important for service mem-bers to understand what a “sham”or fake marriage is. “Although thevalidity of a marriage is ordinarilya question of fact to be decided inaccordance with state law, state lawis not determinative where a servicemember enters into a sham mar-riage to fraudulently obtain govern-ment benefits or to commit immigra-tion fraud,” the U.S. Air Force Courtof Criminal Appeals said in BrittneyL. Hall (2014). In fact, marriagesthat were not valid under state lawdue to technicalities would not bedeemed shams so long as the twoparties entered the union “in goodfaith” instead of with an intent towrongfully obtain benefits, the courtsaid.

Living with a spouse in the same

home will also not make a marriageirrefutably authentic to the govern-ment. More important is the reasonwhy the two got married in the firstplace. Was it love or the desire toobtain a certain allowance or immi-gration status? “A sham marriage isinvalid from its inception,” the courtin Hall said. It is also important topoint out that not sharing the samehome with a spouse does not make amarriage a sham. Again, what mat-ters most is the intent at inception,not the living arrangements.

The Navy-Marine Corps Courtof Criminal Appeals emphasizedthis point in U.S. v. David D. Curry(2010), in which the appellant, aNavy aviation boatswain’s mate air-man, had been convicted of larcenyof military property of a value ofover $500. The appellant in this casemarried a fellow sailor after eightmonths of dating. However, the mar-riage was rocky from the start andthe two lived together for only twoto three weeks. A few months afterthey got married, the appellant’swife was separated from the Navy.The appellant then applied for, andbegan receiving a basic housing al-lowance at the married rate. Theappellant did pay some of his wife’sdebts and provided her with a payallotment.

The government’s argument thatthe appellant was in a sham mar-riage was largely based on the fact

that he had lived with his wife forsuch a short time. But the court dis-agreed and not only set aside thefinding of guilt and sentence, but italso dismissed the charge. The courtnoted how the couple dated beforegetting married, entered a one-yearlease agreement together, and didlive together, albeit briefly. The ap-pellant’s payment of his wife’s debtwas another factor that contrib-uted to the marriage’s authenticity.“While this record does not paint apicture of marital bliss, it likewisedoes not convince us, beyond a rea-sonable doubt that the appellantintended to steal military property,”the court said.

Service members accused of be-ing in a sham marriage and chargedwith larceny of military property ormaking false statements should im-mediately consult with a militarylaw attorney. Depending on the cir-cumstances, an attorney could showthe service member entered into themarriage in good faith and withoutthe intent to wrongfully obtain ben-efits.

Along with being the foundingpartner of the law firm Tully RinckeyPLLC, Mathew B. Tully is a veteranof Operation Iraqi Freedom and Op-eration Enduring Freedom. E-mailquestions to [email protected]. The information in this col-umn is not intended as legal advice.

Ask the Lawyertempting to bring an illegal substance on base.The individual was detained and charged ac-cordingly.

Jan. 5 at 4:52 p.m.: An individual contact-ed Security Forces to report damage to their ve-hicle. The individual stated “they noticed thedamage to their vehicle when they were leav-ing their place of employment”. The damagesconsisted of a horizontal crack and dent on thehood of the vehicle. Patrols responded and con-ducted a written statement.

Jan. 5 at 5:56 p.m.: An individual contact-ed Security Forces to report a larceny of theirpersonal property. The individual stated “afterleaving the Main Exchange they noticed theirpersonal property missing from their vehicle”.Patrols responded and conducted a writtenstatement. The individual stated, they did se-cure their vehicle.

As a reminderWith the winter season in full affect it is im-

portant to drive safely and ensure your vehicleis winter ready. Be sure when driving in winterconditions to stay in control of your vehicle bystaying alert to the road conditions and reduceyour speed.

Please remember, while driving on the in-stallation you must have a valid driver’s li-cense, proof of insurance, vehicle registrationand proper Military Identification. All creden-tials must be up to date and present at the timethey are asked for.

For reporting any emergencies or non-emer-gencies please feel free to utilize the “LiveSafe”app. “LiveSafe” is an anonymous reporting appthat can be downloaded for free on your smartdevice.

POLICE, from page 5

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