Milcom Blog Logs - A Central Florida Edition

My good friend Jack NeSmith has forwarded his May intercept frequency list from his central Florida monitoring post. Thanks Jack and you have a truly impressive list of freqs this month.

225.3500 R-2910 PINECASTLE RANGE "IMPACT"
225.4500 MOODY AFB GA RQS OPS
228.0000 C-LAKE MOA COMMON
228.2250 MOODY AFB GA 347th RQG "ANGEL OPS"
229.9000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
233.9750 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
234.5000 NAS OCEANA VA VFA-106 INTERFLIGHT
234.8000 125th FW
235.1000 AR-200
235.4000 NASA INTERFLIGHT
235.5000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
235.5750 SPECTRUM HOLE
236.0750 MOODY AFB GA GRAND BAY RANGE
236.8500 USAF Nationwide USA USAF A-10 Thunderbolt Demonstration Teams
236.9500 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
237.0250 UNKNOWN
237.5750 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
237.7000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
238.1000 NAVY
238.8000 NAS KEY WEST AF OPS
238.9000 AR-620
239.0500 CCAFS TOWER
245.4000 NAVY
245.5000 ARMY
245.7250 ROOSEVELT EXERCISSE
250.1250 MCAS CHERRY POINT NC
251.1000 ZJX PANAMA CITY
251.1500 JACKSONVILLE IAP APPROACH/DEPARTURE
251.2500 125th FW
251.6000 NAS JAX
251.8000 NAVY
251.9750 MOODY AFB GA
252.9000 TOWNSEND RANGE GA
252.9250 HAVEQUICK
253.1000 MCAS CHERRY POINT NC
253.7000 125th FW
254.2750 ZJX LIVE OAK MOA
254.3250 ZJX TAYLOR - LO w/125.375
254.8500 NAVY
257.2500 HAVEQUICK
257.9000 FAA
258.6250 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
259.3000 MOODY AFB GA APPROACH/DEPARTURE CONTROL
259.6000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
260.9000 NORAD 601st AIR OPERATIONS CENTER "HUNTRESS"
261.2500 PINECASTLE RANGE FL R-2907 LAKE GEOGRE TARGETS
262.7000 NAVY
264.6250 AVON PARK BOMB RANGE FL BRAVO/FOXTROT RANGE
265.2500 UNKNOWN
266.1500 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
266.4000 NAVY
267.5000 NAS JACKSONVILLE FL FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
267.8500 HAVEQUICK
268.3000 NAVY
268.9000 NAS JACKSONVILLE FL HS-1 TACTICAL
269.2500 ZJX OCALA - LO w/133.325
269.3250 JACKSONVILLE IAP FL APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
269.8250 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
270.5000 NAVY
271.8000 95th FS TYNDALL AFB
273.3500 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
273.5500 ZJX ST JOHNS - LO w/134.0
273.6750 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
275.2000 GRUMMAN FLIGHT TEST
275.9000 UNKNOWN
276.6000 AVON PARK RANGE
277.4000 ZJX BRUNSWICK - LO w/126.75
277.6000 NORAD 601st AIR OPERATIONS CENTER "HUNTRESS"
277.7250 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
277.8000 USN FLEET COMMON
277.9000 TYNDALL AFB GCI OPS "HYDRA CONTROL"
279.7000 VFC-13 INTERFLIGHT
281.5000 ZMA MIAMI
282.2000 ZJX JEKYLL - LO w/124.675
282.3000 ZJX ALMA - HI w/135.975
282.4000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
282.6000 NORAD 601st AIR OPERATIONS CENTER "HUNTRESS"
283.4000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC VMFA-122 TAC-1
283.5750 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
284.5000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD"
284.7000 ORLANDO IAP APPROACH/DEPARTURE
285.1000 NAS ATLANTA GA VAW-77
285.5000 ZMA AVON PARK
285.6500 ZJX STATES - HI w/126.125
285.7250 AVON PARK RANGE CHARLIE/ECHO (S TAC) RANGE
287.2000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
288.4000 NORAD 601st AIR OPERATIONS CENTER "HUNTRESS"
289.2000 R-2910 PINECASTLE RANGE CONTROL "AIR CONTROL"
290.3500 ZJX HUNTER - UH w/132.425
290.4000 ZJX WAYCROSS - LO w/132.3
291.2000 NAVY
292.2000 AVON PARK RANGE
293.2250 ZMA VERO BEACH
293.6000 NORAD 601st AIR OPERATIONS CENTER "HUNTRESS"
294.6000 CCAFS Variety Net
298.6250 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
298.6500 HAVEQUICK
299.5000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
301.0000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC SOUTH TACTS RNF 4 X-RAY "WARLOCK"
303.2750 HAVEQUICK
303.4000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
305.8000 MCAS BEAUFORT SC VMFA(AW)-224
305.8500 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
306.0000 NAS JACKSONVILLE FL VP-30 OPEARTIONS
306.9000 ZMA ARRIVAL/DEPARTURE US OCEANIC HI/LOW
307.1000 ZMA PAHOKEE
307.2000 ZJX SEMINOLE- HI w/128.075
307.2500 ZJX ST AUGUSTINE - LO/HI w/126.35
307.3000 ZMA SARASOTA
308.4000 JACKSONVILLE IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE
309.7000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
309.7750 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
310.2000 NAS JACKSONVILLE BASE OPERATIONS
311.0000 MACDILL AFB 6ARW COMMAND POST "LIGHTING OPS"
311.5000 FACSFAC JAX "BRISTOL"
311.6000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
314.2000 125th FW
314.4500 HAVEQUICK
316.3000 NORAD 601st AIR OPERATIONS CENTER "HUNTRESS"
317.5250 ZJX PERRY- HI w/135.625
317.6000 ZMA VERO BEACH
317.6000 ZJX CEDAR KEY - LO w/135.75
320.5000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
320.6000 NORAD 601st AIR OPERATIONS CENTER "HUNTRESS"
320.8250 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
321.0000 PATRICK AFB 920th RQS WING "KING OPS"
322.4750 ZJX LAKE CITY - HI w/133.875
322.5000 ZJX ALLANDALE - LO (SAV) w/120.85
322.8000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
323.0500 ZJX BREWTON - HI w/124.475
324.6000 AR-638
326.5750 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
327.1000 ZJX TORRY - LO/HI w/134.85
327.6000 AR-202S
327.7500 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
327.9750 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
335.5000 ZMA FT. MEYERS
335.5500 ZJX DARBS - LO w/128.05
335.9500 "SENTRY-60" E-3 w/ 125FW acm
336.6250 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
338.3000 ZJX CRESTVIEW - LO w/134.15
338.3750 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
341.7250 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
341.7500 AWACS
343.0000 125th FW
346.2500 ZJX GREEN COVE - HI w/127.475
346.3500 ZJX NEPTA - HI w/124.775
348.7000 ZMA MELBOURNE
349.0000 ZMA AVON PARK
349.4000 USAF ALCC
349.8000 FACSFAC JAX "SEALORD" W-157 DISCRETE
349.9250 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
350.0000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE/MCAS BEAUFORT SC SOUTH TACTS RNG 4 X-RAY "WARLOCK"
350.0250 ICE
321.8000 JACKSONVILLE IAP APPROACH-DEPARTURE CONTROL
352.0000 ZJX TALLAHASSEE - LO (QPE) w/127.8
354.5500 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
357.0000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
360.1500 NORAD KSC CAP 5-31-08
360.7000 ZJX MAYO- HI w/125.175
360.8000 ZJX GENEVA- HI w/125.05
363.3000 NAVY
363.6000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
364.0000 ARMY
364.2000 NORAD AICC
364.2250 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
369.3250 NAVY
369.8000 UNKNOWN
371.5500 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
372.2000 USAF PTD
377.0000 ZJX GAINESVILLE
378.0000 ROOSEVELT EXERCISE
380.3000 ZMA SARASOTA
381.3000 USAF ACC COMMAND POST
387.0250 MOODY AFB GA GCA
395.1500 J-STARS

Server Down

I have received several emails regarding the dead links in some of our resource sections on the right hand side of this page. The links are still valid, but the server that serves those files is down. The IT folks are working overtime to get that system back up and hope to have it back online shortly. Sorry for the inconvience.

SECNAV Tours Next Generation Amphibious Assault Ship

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class Justin Webb, Pre-Commissioning Unit Makin Island Public Affairs

A bow view of the Pre Commissioning Unit (PCU) Makin Island (LHD 8), which is currently under construction in Pascagoula. Makin Island, the Navy’s first amphibious assault ship equipped with an all electric auxiliary systems and a hybrid gas turbine - electric propulsion system. (Photo by Mr. Steve Blount courtesy Northrop Grumman Ship)

PASCAGOULA, Miss. (NNS) -- Secretary of the Navy, Donald C. Winter visited Pre-Commissioning Unit (PCU) Makin Island (LHD 8) May 29, as part of a scheduled Gulf Coast visit.

Winter toured the Northrop Grumman Shipbuilding (NGSB) facility and spaces aboard PCU Makin Island. His primary goal for the tour was to review updates on the overall shipbuilding activities at NGSB and for a status assessment of what's happening with Makin Island.

"The overall integration of combat systems in particular was most helpful, and I think it helped gauge not only where we are right now but where we'll be in the future," Winter said.

He added that he felt that "from an informational perspective, just getting a better understanding of where we are in terms of the test activities and testing of that progress" was critical.

Winter also spoke about the importance of getting Makin Island through waterfront trials and work-ups so that she could join the operational fleet.

"We need our amphibious lift capability," Winter said. "It's an integral part of how we are able to project power around the world, and this [Makin Island] is one of the major parts of that future amphibious fleet."

PCU Makin Island's Commanding Officer, Capt. Robert Kopas, accompanied Winter on the tour, which focused on many of the specifics that make PCU Makin Island the next generation of amphibious assault ship.

"We showed our hybrid gas turbine/diesel-electric propulsion system, our state of the art combat systems capabilities and our machinery control system, which automates and integrates most of our engineering and auxiliary systems," Kopas said.

Kopas added that he and his crew are working diligently in cooperation with the LHD-class squadron and Washington, D.C. program office to ensure Makin Island is ready to fill its role as the Navy's latest and greatest amphibious vessel.

"We are laser-focused on preparing our 1,100 person crew to take custody of Makin Island," Kopas said. "When the shipyard completes its efforts, I have total confidence that the crew will have all the tools to make Makin Island a deployable ship within six months after our arrival in San Diego."

Currently, more than 100 of Makin Island's 581 crew members are embarked on ships in both the Atlantic and Pacific Fleets. These Sailors are actively involved in operations in order to keep their skills current and to prepare themselves for the road ahead.

Following delivery to the Navy, Makin Island will be commissioned and homeported in San Diego.

Sailors, who are in their nine to 12-month negotiating window for orders and want to be part of the pre-commissioning command, can contact their rating detailer and ask to be released to the pre-commissioning detailer for further assignment to Makin Island.

Predator, Reaper unit becomes air expeditionary wing

by Capt. Ed Ekpoudom, 432nd Air Expeditionary Wing Public Affairs

A fully armed MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle taxies down the runway at an air base in Afghanistan on its way to a wartime mission. (U.S. Air Force photo/Staff Sgt. Brian Ferguson)

CREECH AIR FORCE BASE, Nev. (AFPN) -- The 432nd Wing here that flies the MQ-1 Predator and MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicles was designated an air expeditionary wing by Air Combat Command officials in May.

The wing will now have dual reporting responsibilities to 9th Air Force and U.S. Air Forces Central at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C., as well as to 12th Air Force and U.S. Air Forces Southern at Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz.

The wing remains the Air Force's primary training installation for unmanned aircraft systems pilots, sensor operators and maintenance personnel. That mission will remain under the purview of officials from 12th Air Force (Air Forces Southern).

"Our MQ-1 and MQ-9 crew training is the key enabler allowing us and our (Air Force Special Operations Command), British and Air National Guard partners to execute our combat mission," said Col. Chris Chambliss, the 432nd AEW commander. "Standing up the AEW will not detract one bit from our training requirement."

Members of the 432nd Wing's 15th Reconnaissance Squadron first deployed Predators in support of operations Enduring Freedom and Iraqi Freedom, respectively, in 2004. Since then, six additional combat squadrons, including four distributed Air National Guard units, have been activated. The 15th RS, later the 15th Expeditionary Reconnaissance Squadron, had maintained operational control of the combat air patrols flown by these units.

"The combination of three active duty and four Air National Guard units, as well as AFSOC and our British coalition partners, all executing daily combat missions in support of U.S. Central Command, had grown beyond the appropriate scope of the original mandate," Colonel Chambliss said. "Our Air Force leadership concluded that an expeditionary wing structure was needed to control these missions, synchronize efforts and be responsible to the 9th (Air Expeditionary Task Force) commander."

The wing's maintenance operations and organization will also be affected by the designation, Colonel Chambliss said.

"There had never been a provision for command and control of continental United States maintenance support," Colonel Chambliss said. "While some maintainers have been deploying forward as attached expeditionary units that support launching and recovering MQ-1 and MQ-9 combat missions, many more remain here to maintain the equipment used to execute the (remote split operations) mission. These maintainers will now be directly aligned to our expeditionary mission."

Defense Nuclear Surety Inspection conducted at Minot

LANGLEY AIR FORCE BASE, Va. (AFPN) -- A Defense Nuclear Surety Inspection was conducted at the 5th Bomb Wing, Minot Air Force Base, N.D., from May 16 to 26.

Inspectors from the Defense Threat Reduction Agency, the Department of Defense Inspector General, Air Force IG, Air Combat Command IG and Air Force Space Command IG evaluated the wing. Members of the Air Force Inspection Agency and U.S. Strategic Command provided additional oversight.

A DNSI is designed to thoroughly evaluate a unit's readiness to execute nuclear operations and takes place every 18 months. The last DNSI of the 5th BW took place in June 2006.

More than 140 inspectors evaluated the wing for nearly 10 days in several areas, including technical operations, management and administration, security, logistics movement, storage and maintenance facilities, supply support and safety.

Although the wing excelled in numerous areas, deficiencies were observed in the areas of security and logistics movement. ACC officials are ensuring experienced instructors augment the wing's aggressive plan to address these deficiencies. ACC inspectors will return to inspect necessary areas within 90 days in accordance with established Department of Defense and Air Force guidance.

"It is important to note that these inspections are extremely detailed and demand the highest standards of performance," said Brig. Gen. Joseph Reynes, the ACC IG.

For example, even something such as improper tire pressure on one of the transport vehicles could result in an overall unsatisfactory grade, an ACC inspector said.

"Regardless, there is no room for error in dealing with the nuclear enterprise of the United States Air Force," said General Reynes. "We must meet the highest standards of safety, security and effectiveness. Anything less than full compliance is unacceptable."

To maintain and improve its readiness, the wing will undergo several exercises in the coming months, to include participating in a Red Flag exercise this summer and a nuclear operations readiness exercise. In addition, the wing will prepare to deploy aircraft, aircrews, maintenance and support teams this fall. The wing's mission continues while the wing works to refine its capabilities.

"The 5th Bomb Wing team has the full confidence, trust and support of Air Force leadership," said Gen. John Corley, ACC commander. "Minot Airmen are highly trained professionals who have their safety, the safety of their community, and the defense of our nation in the forefront of their minds. The wing remains capable and certified to continue operations and training for its strategic mission."

The ACC IG recognized 86 individuals and 30 teams for their superior performance during the DNSI.

Reports of inspections are privileged documents and are not releasable.

Carrier Strike Group 12 Prepares for BALTOPS 2008

GDYNIA, Poland (NNS) -- Sailors from around the world and throughout the Baltic region will arrive in Gdynia, June 9, to kick off the 36th annual maritime exercise Baltic Operations (BALTOPS) 2008.

BALTOPS 2008 is an individual combined maritime and land exercise in the Baltic Sea, conducted in the spirit of "Partnership For Peace" (PFP). The operation includes NATO and non-NATO participants. The mission of BALTOPS 2008 is to promote mutual understanding, confidence, cooperation, and interoperability among forces and personnel of participating nations and support national unit and staff training objectives through a series of robust exercises.

Thirteen nations will participate in this year's exercise, including ships, submarines, aircraft, and ground force elements from NATO and PFP nations, including Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Latvia, Lithuania, Norway, Poland, Russia, Sweden, the United Kingdom and the United States.

BALTOPS 2008 is intended to improve interoperability with NATO and PFP nations by conducting peace support operations at sea, including gunnery exercises, replenishment-at-sea, undersea warfare, radar tracking, mine countermeasures, seamanship, search and rescue, maritime interdiction operations and scenarios dealing with potential real world crises and maritime security.

U.S. Navy Rear Adm. Daniel P. Holloway, commander, Carrier Strike Group 12, based in Norfolk, will supervise the exercise from the flagship USS Gettysburg (CG 64). Other U.S. Navy units participating include USS Cole (DDG 67), and USNS Patuxent (TAO 201).

"We are a planet of oceans and exercises like BALTOPS build partnerships and strengthen alliances with navies from around the world," said Holloway. "Fostering relationships with our allies enhances global security and prepares us for potential crisis."

Carrier Strike Group 12 returned from their six month deployment to the Persian Gulf in December, and recently presided over Port Everglades Fleet Week in May.

'Mission Complete' 19th Air Refueling Group mission ends at Robins

by Amanda Creel
78th ABW/PA

5/30/2008 - Robins Air Force Base, Ga. -- When it comes to stories, few units can beat the arsenal of tales associated with the 19th Air Refueling Group.

The group's legacy provides an endless supply of sagas as the unit has recorded each chapter in its 80 year history.

On May 28, the Black Knights recorded the end to its many chapters of service during the group's 40-year residence here.

The unit has served in every major conflict since its inception Oct. 18, 1927, and has been designated as an observation, bombardment and refueling unit.

The "bittersweet end" was celebrated during a mission complete ceremony, where past and present members, community champions and family and friends of the unit gathered to say farewell.

As the Black Knights turn the page and its time at Robins comes to a close, the unit is comforted knowing the unit's designation will continue to make history with its new airlift mission.

The group starts its fourth chapter Oct. 1 as part of the newly designated 19th Airlift Wing at Little Rock Air Force Base.

Maj. Gen. James Hawkins,18th Air Force commander, said the Black Knights would continue to be invaluable in the war on terrorism as its mission transforms from supplying the warfighter with fuel in the air to supplying Airmen, Marines and Soldiers on the ground with the materials needed to continue the fight.

"This is not the night the lights went out in Georgia," he said.

Instead, he said the 80 years of heritage would serve as a foundation for the 19th Airlift Wing.

"Your flag will continue to play a vital role in our mission as we continue to fight the war on terrorism," General Hawkins said.

Colonel Chris Bence, 19th ARG commander, credited the diligence of the Black Knights in continuing to complete its mission in the wake of impending closure for helping make the Air Force's decision to not fold the group's flag an easy one.

"It's a true testament to the proud heritage and all the men and women of the 19th," Colonel Bence said.

He said Black Knight pride is unwavering. As the group prepared for its deactivation, the group earned numerous honors, including the Air Force Meritorious Unit Award, which was formally presented by General Hawkins, and its eighth consecutive Air Force Outstanding Unit Award.

"You are the most decorated unit in Air Mobility Command and the 18th Air Force, and that is why your flag is going to continue to fly proudly," General Hawkins said.

He added the group had lived up to its maxim "In Alis Vincimus," which means "on wings we conquer," throughout its history.

General Hawkins noted many of the unit's accomplishments, including being in the air within five hours of the attacks on Sept.11 providing homeland defense, and its service during World War II where the 19th Bombardment Group earned the honor of flying the last conventional bombing mission of the war.

Colonel Bence said the many decorations received during the past two years made it evident the group's story could not end.

Colonel Bence was also awarded the Legion of Merit Award for his service as commander and his recent deployment to the area of responsibility where he served as U.S. Central Command Combined Air Operations Center deputy commander of mobility.

He said he humbly accepted the honor because he knows without the support of his fellow Black Knights and his family, he would not have been selected for this honor.

"It truly is a team effort. I was just the one fortunate enough to be 'out front,'" he said.

General Hawkins said Colonel Bence's and his family's footprints were evident throughout the Robins community.

After the ceremony, the group's flags flew away with Cherokee Rose, the group's flagship aircraft, where they were returned to AMC at Scott Air Force Base for safe keeping.

Cherokee Rose's departure was meant to signal the conclusion of the ceremony; however the bad weather delayed its departure until 3:45 p.m.

Members of the unit all agreed the thunder, lightning and rain were a message from God that he too couldn't bear to see the unit's tenure at Robins come to an end.

It was fitting a former Black Knight, Maj. Gen. Fred Roggero, AMC Air, Space and Information Operations director, was behind the controls as Cherokee Rose made her symbolic exit. He served with the unit from 1978 to 1982.

"It's an honor and a privilege to be able to fly the aircraft out, although I know it's a sad day for the 19th and for Middle Georgia area," he said.

Instead of the ceremony ending with Cherokee Rose flying away, it ended in "true Black Knight fashion" as the men and women of the 19th bellowed its chant: "Black Knights, Out Front; Black Knights, Out Front; Black Knights, Out Front."

Blue Ridge Conducting Spring Swing Tour

The amphibious command ship USS Blue Ridge (LCC 19) steams within sight of Mt. Fuji on its final stop to Shimizu to complete a six-week Spring Swing tour in the Pacific rim area of responsibility. Blue Ridge made port visits to Thailand, Singapore, Indonesia, Malaysia and the Philippines fostering goodwill among PACRIM nations. U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Heidi McCormick

USS Carr Completes Caribbean Security Cruise

By Ensign Tim Boston, USS Carr Public Affairs

USS Carr (FFG 52) returned home May 24, after a two-month deployment to the Western Atlantic and Caribbean Sea.

Carr was underway conducting Theater Security Cooperation (TSC) events in the Caribbean, and made port calls in Barbados, Trinidad and Tobago, Curacao, Naval Station Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (GTMO) and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

"The combination of Theater Security Cooperation and good liberty in the warm tropical sun of the Caribbean has made a very positive impression on Carr Sailors, and I believe the local populations of these countries we visited were glad we did," said Cmdr. Mark V. Metzger, Carr's commanding officer.

Highlights of the deployment included interaction and training with the Barbados Coast Guard, two community relations projects and multiple Navy-to-Navy engagements.

The deployment culminated in Carr's participation in Caribbean Navy Days 2008 in Curacao, Netherlands Antilles with the Colombian, Dutch, British, French, and Trinidadian navies.

Hosted by the Dutch Navy, Dutch Royal Marines and Netherlands Antilles Coast Guard. Caribbean Navy Days consisted of ship tours, aerial and small boat demonstrations, live music from the Dutch Royal Marine Band and local steel drum bands, a seven-mile run around Willemstad and a parade of ships into the Curacao harbor for thousands of tourists and locals to watch.

"I'm always quite impressed by the camaraderie and genuine fellowship between professional naval forces such as these gathered here," said Metzger. "Together we showed the people of Curacao what we bring to the table in defense capabilities, but moreover the strategic importance of our presence here."

In Barbados, Carr participated in several events to improve interoperability with the Barbados Coast Guard. Lt. Chris Locher, Carr's Combat Systems officer, spoke to Barbados Sailors about U.S. Navy visit, board, search and seizure tactics and discussed differences between his experiences in the Persian Gulf and Mediterranean Sea and the Barbadian Coast Guard's experiences conducting counter-illicit trafficking missions in the Caribbean.

"It is a great opportunity to share experiences with Sailors who conduct the same types of operations, but have a different perspective," said Locher.

Also in Barbados, Carr Sailors delivered two pallets of Project Handclasp toys and medical supplies to the Needy Children's Charity, a local charity in Bridgetown, Barbados. Project Handclasp, an aid organization that collects and delivers donations from the United States to children in need around the world, provided the supplies for Carr Sailors to deliver and distribute.

In Trinidad, 30 Carr Sailors participated in a community relations project repainting the exterior of the Cocorite Government Primary School, a primary school outside of Port of Spain, Trinidad. The school consists of 160 students, ages five to 15. Although they had the day off from school, many students came to observe the Sailors painting their school.

"My grandfather is from Trinidad and my friend's mother is from here as well," said Operations Specialist 2nd Class (SW) Christopher Rainer. "I enjoy giving back and showing that America is here to do good [things]. Talking to the locals, I know they appreciate us being here."

Projects, such as those in Barbados and Trinidad, foster goodwill between Sailors and the local community and allow Sailors to interact with locals and leave a positive impression long after they leave.

Carr visited the U.S. Virgin Islands for supplies and liberty, and visited GTMO to refuel, restock provisions, and conduct Force Protection Training in preparation for a Force Protection Initial Assessment Qualification.

AMC stands up first overseas wing

SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. (AFPN) -- Air Mobility Command officials will stand up a new wing June 5 as part of its en route structure in the Pacific.

The 515th Air Mobility Operations Wing at Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii, will be the first wing AMC officials have established overseas since the command's formation in 1992. Supporting AMC aircraft and crews transiting the Pacific, the wing becomes the headquarters for the existing 715th Air Mobility Operations Group at Hickam AFB and the new 515th AMOG at Yokota Air Base, Japan.

"This new wing will provide an enhanced level of control for our en route structure in the Pacific, which includes critical locations for getting people, cargo and patients to and from war zones," said Col. Richard A. McClain, who is appointed to be the 515th Air Mobility Operations Wing commander and currently serves as the 615th Contingency Response Wing vice commander at Travis AFB, Calif. "The strategic locations of our en route bases maximize the distance our mobility fleet can travel without air refueling. At the same time, we provide maintenance and aerial port servicing, as well as allowing aircrews the opportunity to get the appropriate crew rest."

"This wing standup demonstrates that AMC's en route structure is a flexible organization, shaped by the needs of our nation's security," said Maj. Gen. James A. Hawkins, 18th Air Force commander. "We're always looking for opportunities to make our system more responsive and efficient. This is one more example of adjusting the system to meet the combatant commander's needs."

The en route system serves as a critical link in supporting the warfighter.

"We couldn't perform our global mission without our air mobility people and infrastructure in the theater," said General Hawkins. "Our mobility aircraft transiting from their home base across the Pacific need these locations to refuel and be serviced before and after long missions."

About 1,800 personnel are assigned to the new wing. More than half will stay with the 715th AMOG and its three squadrons, supporting flights transiting Hickam AFB; Andersen AFB, Guam; and Elmendorf AFB, Alaska. The new 515th AMOG at Yokota will have operational control over the three squadrons at Osan AB, Korea; Kadena AB, Japan; and Yokota AB.

Stryker Brigade Returns

About 4000 soldiers with the Fourth Stryker Brigade Combat Team, Second Infantry Division are coming home.

If you would like to view this story with a popup media player click here Stryker Brigade Returns

KC-135: 50 years of refueling the fleet

by Staff Sgt. Matthew Bates, Air Force Print News



In an effort to modernize its aging tanker fleet, the Air Force awarded Northrop Grumman a contract to build the KC-45 aerial refueling aircraft in February. The new tanker is set to augment and eventually replace the KC-135 Stratotanker, currently the oldest airframe still in use by the Air Force.

The first KC-135 was delivered to Castle Air Force Base, Calif., in June of 1957 and the last one was delivered to the Air Force in 1965. This makes the average KC-135 nearly 50 years old.

Though loyal to the aircraft, those within the KC-135 community recognize the need to invest in a new tanker, not because the aircraft is not capable, but because of its age.

"It's a great airplane and it's good at what it does," said Col. Peter Nezamis, commander of the Illinois Air National Guard's 126th Air Refueling Wing at Scott AFB. "The fact that it's still flying is a testament to that. But it's old ... real old."

With this advanced age come increased problems. Fuel lines leak, gear struts break, corrosion is rampant and replacement parts are becoming hard to come by. Most of the suppliers have either gone out of business or have gone on to build parts for newer aircraft.

"The parts for this aircraft are dwindling and becoming more and more costly to procure," Colonel Nezamis said. "And when we can't procure them, we have to manufacture them ourselves."

The aircraft themselves are on a set schedule that determines when they are sent to the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Center at Tinker AFB for a complete overhaul. The tankers receive new paint and any other identified repairs, which include replacing the boom "rudderevator," horizontal stabilizer terminal fittings and fuel bladders.

"Nobody envisioned that this aircraft would be around for so long," said Gaddis Gann, chief engineer at the center. "The KC-135 was designed and built in the 1950s era of 'throw-away' aircraft. Durability was not a major concern, and manufacturers adopted assembly techniques, such as lapping two pieces of metal without sealant, that made the aircraft corrosion prone."

These overhauls at Tinker AFB are becoming more important by the day. Workers at the ALC have to keep the KC-135 in operation for at least another 30 years.

"We're starting to see things break now that typically don't or haven't before," Mr. Gann said.

Even the inspection process has increased, as pilots and maintainers now check items that were unnecessary to check during the airplane's youth.

"When I started flying the KC-135 in the early 80s, our inspections were maybe one page long," said Col. Jeffery Glass, commander of the 507th ARW at Tinker AFB. "Now, we have five pages of inspections that have to be done on the airplane because of its increased age."

The KC-135's mission for more than 50 years is to provide the core aerial refueling capability for the Air Force and to ensure the accomplishment of its primary missions of Global Reach and Global Power.

Still, because of required maintenance due to the aircraft's age, the KC-135 is becoming less and less available to the fleet.

"You have to look at reliability rates as one thing, but then you have to look at the rates of availability for the airplane," Colonel Glass said. "And that keeps dropping."

At the 507th ARW alone, the wing only has five or six of its 12 KC-135s available to fly on any given day due to scheduled and unscheduled maintenance.

The aircraft was designed primarily to be an aerial refueler. Today, though, the Stratotanker is seeing increased use as a cargo hauler and is flying numerous missions in support of operations Iraqi Freedom and Enduring Freedom.

All of this also is combining to place additional stress on the airplane.

"We're pushing an airplane that's made of metal and is fatigued and old, and getting older, and things just start breaking down," Colonel Glass said. "The KC-135 has done its job and it has done it well. But anytime you get to the point where you have a 50-year-old airplane, you don't know what's going to break next."

This, he added, is one reason the KC-45 is a necessary addition to the tanker fleet.

"Without a follow-on tanker for the KC-135, if something happens where the KC-135 has to be grounded, we can't fight a war," he said. "If we don't have refuelers, we can't keep our planes in the air."

This is a fact Air Force officials recognized when deciding to introduce a new tanker.

"Recapitalization of our Air Force's jet tanker inventory is long overdue," said Gen. Duncan McNabb, Air Force vice chief of staff. "Air refuelers are a single point of failure in modern military operations. Across the spectrum of what we do, we absolutely rely on the capabilities they give to us."

The KC-135 is anticipated to stay in the fleet until 2040, and the KC-45 is expected to join the Air Force in 2013.

USS Alabama Returns from Sea Trials

By Mass Communication Specialist 2nd Class (AW/NAC) Eric J. Rowley, Fleet Public Affairs Center, Det. Northwest

The Ohio-class nuclear powered ballistic missile submarine USS Alabama (SSBN-731) is being moved "dead-stick" in the sound by a flotilla of tug boats with Mount Rainer in background. U.S. Navy photographed by Mr. Anthony Madina

USS Alabama (SSBN 731) returned to Naval Base Kitsap, Bangor, May 14, after successfully completing their first at-sea period in two-and-a-half years, recertifying the ship during their sea trials.

The eight days at sea tested every aspect of the ship's integrity after their refueling overhaul and a Trident II (D5) missile system conversion from the older Trident I (C4) missile system.

"Everything went great, the crew preformed admirably and we got through the sea trials with no big issues," said Master Chief Missile Technician (SS) John Sutton, Alabama chief of the boat. "When we did have problems, the crew was quick to fix them. We got out there and got sea trials completed and got back in on schedule and on time with no issues, ready to go and fully certified."

This sea trial also marked 1,000 dives for Alabama.

Before their sea trials, the crew worked many long days preparing the ship for their first underway by doing fast cruises, where the crew stays tied to the pier but drills like they are actually at sea.

"Sea trials went great," said Cmdr. Todd Massidda, USS Alabama commanding officer. "We completed all things we needed to do to get the ship recertified to get back to an operational status and officially close out the shipyard period within two days of getting back. This was one of the most efficient sea trials to date. This was also a good sense of accomplishment for the crew, which was also needed."

During the sea trials they recertified the hull at test depth, their weapons systems, propulsion systems and also worked on their crew proficiency and training.

"Everybody was pretty excited. There were a lot of guys who have been here for two-plus years and had only been to sea with another boat," said Ensign Abe Cook, Alabama supply officer. "I think for a lot of people it was exciting to see their work, which could be very painful and time consuming, was turned into the boat going out and having a very successful run. It showed these guys their two years of hard work were not lost."

Alabama will undergo more system upgrades and certifications to be ready for a full patrol in about one year.

"This was an extremely intense evolution, there were hundreds and hundreds of man hours of work that needed to be completed in a short period of time." said Missile Technician 1st Class (SS) Jonathan Vannoy, Alabama missile technician leading petty officer. "Our hard work paid off. Our system performed exactly as it was designed to."

CSG 7 Hones ASW Skills in USWEX

By Lt. Ron Flanders, Carrier Strike Group 7 Public Affairs

USS RONALD REAGAN, At Sea (NNS) -- The ships of Carrier Strike Group (CSG) 7 commenced an undersea warfare exercise (USWEX) in the waters of the Hawaiian operating area, May 27.

Participating in the exercise are the strike group's flagship, the Nimitz-class aircraft carrier USS Ronald Reagan (CVN 76); the guided-missile cruiser USS Chancellorsville (CG 62), and the ships of Destroyer Squadron (DESRON) 7, the guided-missile destroyers USS Decatur (DDG 73), USS Gridley (DDG 101) and USS Howard (DDG 83) and the guided-missile frigate USS Thach (FFG 43). Also participating are two nuclear-powered fast attack submarines.

The exercise is the final test for the Ronald Reagan Carrier Strike Group, which deployed May 19, before it heads to the Western Pacific and 7th Fleet area of responsibility. USWEXs are held around Hawaii several times a year for commanders to assess the undersea warfare capabilities of deploying strike groups.

"This is a great opportunity to train on our own 'home field' before we head west," said Rear Adm. James P. Wisecup, commander, Carrier Strike Group 7. "Several nations in the areas we're headed have very quiet, diesel-electric submarines that could potentially be adversaries, and it is my responsibility to prepare these Sailors to deal with that threat. The American people expect nothing less than the best-trained Navy in the world."

Capt. William Nault, commodore of DESRON 7, explained the USWEX provides an invaluable opportunity to train his ships' crews to in a realistic, warlike scenario. "We're trying to catch, track and prosecute multiple submarines, and they're trying to find us. We also have to maintain our protection of the carrier. It is a very challenging scenario."

Mid-frequency active sonar remains the Navy's best tool for finding and tracking these very quiet, diesel-electric submarines. The Navy, in conjunction with regulators, has developed 29 protective measures, including marine mammal monitoring and safety zones where the units either power down or shut down active sonar to minimize potential harm to marine mammals.

The exercise includes the use of mid-frequency active sonar, under restrictions imposed by the federal district court in Honolulu. Those restrictions differ from the 29 protective measures the Navy and regulators developed, and from the ones imposed by California federal courts for the strike group's recent certification exercise in Southern California.

Adm. Robert F. Willard, U.S. Pacific Fleet commander, said the 29 protective measures "apply good margins of safety against any potential for harming any animal. Anything in excess of that is unnecessary and imposes unacceptable limits on our training."

Nonetheless, the exercise is a welcome opportunity for the strike group, because anti-submarine warfare (ASW) is the top warfighting priority for the U.S. Pacific Fleet, and is a very perishable skill that is not easily mastered.

"Great sonar operators are trained over many years, and their abilities are as much about art as science," said Wisecup. "Trainers ashore and simulators will only get you so far; the rest is based on experience. And to get that experience you just have to go out there and practice it against a tough adversary."

"Only in a real ocean environment against a thinking enemy can we improve our proficiency to fight submarines," said Cmdr. David Haas, Thach commanding officer.

"USWEX is absolutely critical for my crew," said Cmdr. Gregory Gombert, Gridley commanding officer. "It places my sonar operators and anti-submarine tacticians in an environment that mirrors the tough conditions in the 7th Fleet and 5th Fleet operating areas. Once USWEX is over, the Gridley team will be prepared for just about anything," added Gombert.

Confidence also prevails among the strike group's watchstanders, who relish the prospect of squaring off against two of the world's most sophisticated submarines.

"I'm excited," said Sonar Technician Surface 3rd Class Alexander Avila, a sonar operator aboard Thach. "I want to see where our sonar capabilities stand against them, as a team. I would also like to test myself to see where my strengths and weaknesses are."

Joining the six ships in their battle against the submarines will be the helicopters of Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron 4 of Carrier Air Wing 14, embarked aboard Ronald Reagan, and helicopters from Helicopter Anti-Submarine Squadron Light (HSL) 49, embarked aboard Chancellorsville and Thach, HSL 43, embarked aboard Howard, and HSL 37, embarked aboard Gridley.

Kitty Hawk departs Japan for last time

The aircraft carrier USS Kitty Hawk (CV 63) departs Yokosuka, Japan for the final time. Kitty Hawk, the oldest carrier in the U.S. Navy and the only conventional-powered aircraft carrier, will be replaced this summer by the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier USS George Washington (CVN 73). (U.S. Navy photo by Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Kyle D. Gahlau)

Seven countries hone fighter pilot skills during Maple Flag

by Capt. Brooke Brander, 33rd Fighter Wing Public Affairs



Staff Sgt. Chester Johnson, from Eglin Air Force Base, Fla., performs a post flight inspection on an F-15 Strike Eagle during a Maple Flag exercise at Cold Lake, Canada. Maple Flag 41 is a four-week international air combat exercise held annually at 4 Wing Cold Lake, Alberta, Canada. The exercise provides Canadian and allied aircrew with realistic training in a modern simulated air combat environment, and it emphasizes air operations involving large package coalition forces. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Cecilio Ricardo)

COLD LAKE, Alberta, Canada (AFPN) -- Fighter pilots from seven different countries, including the United States, participate in Maple Flag 41May 5-16 and May 19-30 at Cold Lake in Alberta, Canada.

"Ask any U.S. fighter pilot and he'll tell you the best part about flying here is the unrestricted air space," said Maj. Derrick Johnson, Maple Flag project officer from Nellis Air Force Base, Nev.

Roughly 3,000 servicemembers are participating in this year's exercise, according to the 4 Wing Public Affairs. The exercise is divided into two periods;

"Four Wing Cold Lake is proud to host Exercise Maple Flag 41, one of the largest coalition exercises in the world," said Capt. John Pulchny, 4 Wing public affairs officer. "With its vast and unrestricted air space and its cutting-edge technology and training assets, the wing is a leading center for coalition training."

Four Wing is Canada's largest fighter wing. Its mission is to train, deploy and support tactical fighter forces to meet Canada's defense and security requirements -- domestically, continentally and internationally.

Maple Flag nearly mirrors Red Flag training at Nellis AFB. One of Red Flag's aggressor units is participating in this year's Maple Flag.

"From the 64th Aggressor Squadron flying the F-16 Fighting Falcon to the 65th Aggressor Squadron flying the F-15 Eagles -- that aggressor forces provide a huge training opportunity for Maple Flag participants," Major Johnson said.

This year's participants include forces from the United States, Canada, Germany, France, Netherlands, New Zealand and the Republic of Singapore.

The Blue Force, or "good guys," control the pace of the training based on its training objectives. The aggressors' job is to match that level of difficulty, and its Major Johnson's mission to ensure both sides are on the same wavelength. In other words, if one were to put a numerical value on the difficulty of a certain flying scenario, say a rating of four for the Blue team, then the major ensures the threat level presented by the aggressors is also a four, as is the surface-to-air missile threat. All must be equal.
"The difficulty level for fighter pilots increases each day," Major Johnson said. "We usually start with a very vanilla-type of threat. But as the exercise progresses, we try to make the complexity more difficult, based on training objectives. By the time the last training day rolls around, each pilot will see a much more robust threat, from the air and the ground. "

And, it's not just the fighter pilots who receive all the training.

"This is my second Maple Flag, the first being with the 27th Fighter Wing from Cannon Air Force Base in 2006," said Maj. Michael Shetler, 33rd Maintenance Operation Squadron commander at Eglin AFB, Fla. "How we do the job is the same at home or deployed. Exercises like Maple Flag teach our maintainers how to pack-up and deploy and how to work with other military services and host nations."

Taking part in the exercise are F-15s Eagles from Eglin AFB, an E-3 Sentry from the 965th Airborne Air Control Squadron, Tinker AFB, Okla.; eight F-16s from the 64th Aggressor Squadron from Nellis, and three EA-6B Prowlers from VAQ-137 Naval Air Station, Whidbey Island, Wash.

"Exercises, like Maple Flag, Red Flag Alaska and Red Flag Nellis, allow us to train like we fight today; as coalition partners. The training and relationships developed during exercises like this lay the foundation for future interoperability during the real deal," said Col. Jeff Gustafson, 33rd Fighter Wing vice commander from Eglin AFB.

Possible New Blue Angel Frequency Discovered

Paul Sisul in Chicago, Illinois may have uncovered a new Blue Angel frequency during the recent Peoria Prairie Airshow last month. During the Sunday performance their know 255.200 MHz was used by the Diamond formation. This frequency was reported by several other field reporters at this event. But the new frequency was heard by Paul during the Saturday performance -- 250.975 MHz for the Diamond formation.

Since I only have one report for this frequency, I will hold it in the tentative category until I get some additional field reports of its use. So Milcom airshow fans, plug in 250.975 MHz and let me know what you hear.

BTW - 250.975 MHz is one of my spectrum holes, so Paul you get a double thanks. Thanks for passing along this new potential frequency for the BA boyz and sharing it with my Milcom blog readers.

Celebrating Our 2nd Year Anniversary of this Blog

It doesn't seem like it, but tomorrow is the 2nd anniversary of this blog, the Milcom Monitoring Post and its sister blog the Btown Monitoring Post. On Wednsesday of this week it is the 2nd anniversary of Gayle's Shortwave Central Blog.

Gayle and I would like to thank all who have contributed to the effort to make these blogs the best in the world of radio. No one else even gets close in reader traffic or news content.

We would also like to take a second on this Memorial Day weekend to honor all those who have served or are currently serving in the U.S. military. We would like to honor the service of those who have given the ultimate price for this country, and to all the military families. These are the folks who are always in our thoughts and prayers and we will never forget and will always honor.

So on this fantastic weekend, the official start of summer, let's celebrate the 2nd anniversary of the Monitoring Post Radio Blogs - Milcom Monitoring Post, Btown Monitoring Post, and the Shortwave Central. Again thanks to all who have made these blogs possible with your stories, frequencies, and laissez les bons temps rouler.

Airshow Report - Jones Beach NY

Photo of the USAF Heritage Flight over NYC 2006. Photo courtesy of Victoria Arocho and the Jones beach airshow website (http://www.jonesbeachairshow.com/).

Steve Hines, on Long Island, attended the Jones Beach NY Airshow this weekend and passed along this great report on the Milcom newsgroup.

118.8000 Republic Tower
122.7750 Skytypers
123.1500 Show Discrete
123.4750 Golden Knights
128.2500 Air Boss
139.8125 Blue Angels Bravo Comm Cart FM mode
155.5050 New York State Troopers
157.0750 USCG Jones Beach - Marine Channel 81 FM mode
159.3900 Jones Beach State Park
159.4200 Jones Beach State Park Police
237.8000 Blue Angels Solos (behind crowd)
275.3500 Blue Angels Diamond (behind crowd)
284.2500 Blue Angels Show Box
287.5000 106 Rescue Wing
305.5000 Blue Angels Fat Albert
346.5000 Blue Angels Start Up
376.0250 F-22 Demo

Show Simulcast on WHLI 1100 AM

And Dan Myers added the following two freqs to the report (also via Milcom)

The 106th Rescue Wing used 251.900 MHz(secondary) for their air-to-ground rescue demo and also did checks on 282.800 MHz.

Thanks to Steve and Dan for the reports they filed via the Milcom newsgroup on the qth.net network of radio newsgroups.

Screaming Eagles Frequency Confirmed

My good friend Joe Cobb over in Nashville has confirmed the one known 101st Airborne Screaming Eagles air-to-ground frequency of 44.200 MHz FM mode.

Thanks Joe for sharing that frequency with the readers of this blog.