What’s Inside Outlook Jan. 22, 2009 U.S. Army Garrisons Vicenza & Livorno www.USAG.Vicenza.Army.Mil Vol. 42, Issue 3 Garrison news pages 2 & 3 CIAO 2009 TRICARE vs OHI Speak Out Commander’s Intent Year of the NCO Danger: frozen ponds Who’s at your service? Community events pages 4 & 5 PEO Soldiers coming VCC seeks men Army Africa Soldiers in Rwanda Community news pages 6 & 7 Out & About Movie schedule Hit the slopes with Outdoor Rec Community notes Sports page 8 Team stats Cougars take 3-of-4 Sports shorts The By Rick Scavetta U.S. Army Africa Public Affairs Soldiers from U.S Army Africa spent the first weeks of 2009 preparing for upcoming missions to Africa. Training for Africa with Lion’s Focus Lion Focus, a two-week exercise that began Jan. 5, took place at two locations in Italy –Longare and Aviano Air Base. The training was conducted simultaneously with an exercise in Virginia that was preparing troops heading to Combined Joint Task Force-Horn of Africa. The main exercise goal was to improve the way headquarters’ staff plan and conduct operations, said Col. Eric Nantz, U.S. Army Africa’s senior operations officer. “This training is an opportunity to test our capabilities and lay a solid foundation for future Army missions inAfrica,” Nantz said. As part of the exercise, Soldiers launched an “early- entry” command post from Longare to Aviano Air Base. On a field near the flight line, Soldiers from the 509th Signal Battalion assisted U.S. Army Africa troops to construct the command post – tents filled Sgt. Richard Clement, signal support sytem specialist with SETAF-U.S. Army Africa, sets up a tactical satellite antenna. Spc. Chadd Young (left). and Spc. Seth Garner, both military intelligence Soldiers assigned to SETAF-U.S. Army Africa, construct a satellite reciever during Exercise Lion Focus. Army Africa: ‘On the road’ By Rick Scavetta U.S. Army Africa Public Affairs Kigali, Rwanada-When a U.S. Air Force officer saw Rwandan soldiers marking equipment and loading gear onto a C-17 cargo plane at Kigali International Airport, he asked Staff Sgt. Brian A sign on the road to the airport in Kigali sends a welcome to the U.S. Army Africa Soliders working in Rwanda. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Brian Ruse) Ruse if that was okay. Ruse and 1st Lt. Charlie Jones, both Soldiers with U.S Army-Africa, had been training the Rwandan Defense Force to do the job. “It’s all right, sir,” Ruse told the officer, “They got it.” Ruse and Jones deployed to Rwanda in early January. Around that time, the U.S. government announced U.S. Africa Command would support the international peacekeeping mission in Darfur by airlifting Rwandan peacekeepers’ equipment into the war-torn region of the Sudan. That day, Ruse and Jones were already headed to Africa. They learned about the airlift mission when the arrived in Rwanda. Story continued on page 5. U.S. Army Africa Soldiers assist Rwandan airlift for peacekeepers in Darfur with vital communication gear. “This gives us the opportunity to get out here and do this,” said Staff Sgt. Joshua Sweeton, 30, of McMinnville, Tenn. “So when the call comes for us to deploy into Africa in support of some type of operation then we know we can do this.”
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What’s Inside
OutlookJan. 22, 2009 U.S. Army Garrisons Vicenza & Livorno www.USAG.Vicenza.Army.Mil Vol. 42, Issue 3
Garrison newspages 2 & 3
CIAO 2009
TRICARE vs OHI
Speak Out
Commander’s Intent
Year of the NCO
Danger: frozen ponds
Who’s at your service?
Communityevents
pages 4 & 5
PEO Soldiers coming
VCC seeks men
Army Africa Soldiers in Rwanda
Community newspages 6 & 7
Out & About
Movie schedule
Hit the slopes withOutdoor Rec
Community notes
Sportspage 8
Team stats
Cougars take 3-of-4
Sports shorts
The
By Rick ScavettaU.S. Army Africa Public Affairs
Soldiers from U.S ArmyAfrica spent the first weeks of2009 preparing for upcomingmissions to Africa.
Training for Africa with Lion’s FocusLion Focus, a two-week
exercise that began Jan. 5,took place at two locations inItaly –Longare and Aviano AirBase.
The training was conductedsimultaneously with an
exercise inVirginia that waspreparing troopsheading toCombined JointTask Force-Hornof Africa.
The mainexercise goal wasto improve the wayheadquarters’ staffplan and conductoperations, saidCol. Eric Nantz,U.S. ArmyAfrica’s senioroperations officer.
“This training isan opportunity totest our capabilitiesand lay a solidfoundation forfuture Armymissions in Africa,”
Nantz said.As part of the exercise,
Soldiers launched an “early-entry” command post fromLongare to Aviano Air Base.On a field near the flight line,Soldiers from the 509th SignalBattalion assisted U.S. ArmyAfrica troops to construct thecommand post – tents filled
Sgt. Richard Clement, signal support sytemspecialist with SETAF-U.S. Army Africa, setsup a tactical satellite antenna.
Spc. Chadd Young (left). and Spc. Seth Garner, both military intelligenceSoldiers assigned to SETAF-U.S. Army Africa, construct a satellitereciever during Exercise Lion Focus.
Army Africa: ‘On the road’
By Rick ScavettaU.S. Army Africa Public Affairs
Kigali, Rwanada-When a U.S.Air Force officer saw Rwandansoldiers marking equipment andloading gear onto a C-17 cargoplane at Kigali InternationalAirport, he asked Staff Sgt. Brian
A sign on the road to the airport in Kigali sends a welcome to the U.S. Army Africa Soliders working in Rwanda. (Photo by Staff Sgt. Brian Ruse)
Ruse if that was okay.Ruse and 1st Lt. Charlie
Jones, both Soldiers with U.SArmy-Africa, had been trainingthe Rwandan Defense Force todo the job.
“It’s all right, sir,” Ruse toldthe officer, “They got it.”
Ruse and Jones deployed to
Rwanda in early January.Around that time, the U.S.government announced U.S.Africa Command would supportthe international peacekeepingmission in Darfur by airliftingRwandan peacekeepers’equipment into the war-tornregion of the Sudan.
That day, Ruse and Joneswere already headed to Africa.They learned about the airliftmission when the arrived inRwanda.
Story continued on page 5.U.S. Army Africa Soldiersassist Rwandan airlift forpeacekeepers in Darfur
with vital communication gear.“This gives us the
opportunity to get out here anddo this,” said Staff Sgt. JoshuaSweeton, 30, of McMinnville,Tenn. “So when the call comesfor us to deploy into Africa insupport of some type ofoperation then we know wecan do this.”
2 THE Outlook Jan. 22, 2009
Garrison news
SpeakOut
What are the benefits of walking on post? -By Laura Kreider
Gary DonaldVHS Student
“Walking works mylegs out. It’s goodexercise.”
Mike WestonVHS student
“Get around easily onpost with friends.On mybasketball shoes I put thenames of my family members,so they are always with meon the court.”
Dominic La ForgiaUSAG Vicenza
Internal Review
“You don’t getsculpted, muscularcalves like these bydriving around.”
Staff Sgt. ReinaldoGotierrez
Vicenza Health Clinic
“I prefer to walkbecause things are not farfrom each other and I getsome exercise.”
Anna TerracinoUSAG Vicenza PAO
“It might be fasterthan driving. Sometimesit takes longer to drivearound trying to find aparking space.”
Vicenza Community ClubPress releaseSpecial to the Outlook
Each year, the VicenzaCommunity Club hosts aconference to inspire,educateand uplift the women of ourcommunity. Italians celebratethe Festa Della Donna in March- the same month thatAmericans celebrate Women’sHistory Month.
In that spirit, VCC createdthe CIAO Women’s Conferenceto focus on women celebratingwomen through education,friendship and fun.
This year’s CIAOConference will take place onMarch 6 at ristorante Dai
Gelosi. Transportation isarranged.
The CIAO conference is acompilation of mini-workshopscelebrating women and thecombined Italian Americanexperience of being stationed inVicenza.
Classes range from Italiancooking classes with the chef ofristorante Dai Gelosi and winetasting with Antonietta andRodolfo of Villa Sceriman, to aneclectic approach to degreecompletion for military spouses.
A variety of presenters arelined up to share a littlesomething with everyoneattending the conference.
“I was really surprised athow much information is out
special day “just for me”without the children.
“I look forward to the CIAOconference each year,” saidAndi Fehl. “The workshopsoffered are terrific and it’s niceto have a girl’s day out.”
This conference is open to theentire community. Pick up yourregistration form at Davis Hall,the post library, the gym or thethrift shop.
Transportation is providedfrom Caserma Ederle to DaiGelosi. Childcare is available tothose attending the conference.Current registration with CYS isrequired.
Completed registration forms(and applicable fees) should bedropped in the VCC drop-boxlocated in the post library nolater than Feb. 23.
Workshops are filled on afirst-come, first-served basis.
If you have any questions;contact Ani Pry at 346-3940328or via email at: [email protected].
CIAO 2009
there for spouses wanting tofurther their education,” saidRachel Perez, who attendedthe 2008 CIAO conference.
Volunteers for the CIAOconference have been hard atwork pulling together thedetails to create anunforgettable experiencecomplete with childcare,
transportation, breakfast andlunch, easy registration anddoor prizes available for eachparticipant.
Each year, CIAO receivesrave reviews from attendeessaying they enjoyed spendingtime with friends and meetingnew ones and being affordedthe opportunity to have a
Workshops scheduled March 6
Workshops from wine tasting to degree completion are offered duringthe CIAO conference. (Outlook file photo by Laura Kreider)
By Muriel D. MetcalfTricare Press Release
Believe it or not OHI isalways on first.
But what is OHI?OHI (other health insurance)
is any health care coverageprovided through an employer,national health insurance fromother countries, school healthprogram, private insurancecompanies or other entitlementprograms such as Medicare.
TRICARE, on the other handis not insurance per se, but amedical entitlement program,available for eligible
beneficiaries from any of theseven uniformed services andtheir families, both active dutyand retired.
Eligibility for TRICARE isdetermined by the aboveuniformed services anddocumented in the DefenseEnrollment Eligibility ReportingSystem (DEERS) for active dutymembers, reserve members,retired service members andfamily members.
When a beneficiary has bothTRICARE and OHI, the otherhealth insurance is alwaysconsidered the primaryinsurance, so the rules of that
plan, including referrals andauthorization requirements, mustbe followed.
Federal law requiresTRICARE to be the secondarypayer to any OHI with very fewexceptions – that’s why OHI isalways on first.
Three simple steps can makethe process easy.
Step 1. Know the benefitsoffered by your OHI and theprocess for seekingpreauthorization or care fromyour insurance.
Step 2. File health careclaims with your primary healthinsurance (OHI) first.
Step 3. After your OHIdetermines the amount it will pay,you then submit a copy of theOHI payment determination (i.e.EOB), a copy of the itemized billand a signed claim form(DD2642) to the TRICAREoverseas claim processor.
For more information on filingclaims or obtaining forms visitthe Web site: www.tricare.mil/claims or contact your localTRICARE Service Center forassistance.
In Italy the TRICAREService Center is located insidethe Vicenza and Livorno HealthClinics
It is important to follow therules of your OHI. If somethingis not covered because you didnot follow the rules of your OHI,i.e. you saw a private physicianrather than a statutory physician,then TRICARE cannot payeither.
TRICARE beneficiaries maychoose to purchase a TRICAREsupplemental insurance policyoffered by a military associationor private company.
Unlike OHI, supplementalinsurance pays after TRICAREhas paid. For details on OHI orsupplemental insurance visitwww.tricare.osd.mil/OHI.
Who’s on first? TRICARE vs. OHI
Jan. 22, 2009 THE Outlook 3
Garrison news
SETAF CommanderMaj. Gen. William B. Garrett III
USAG Vicenza Commander and PublisherCol. Erik Daiga
USAG VicenzaPublic Affairs Officer
Jon Fleshman
EditorGary L. Kieffer
PhotojournalistLaura Kreider
The Outlook is an unoff icialpublication authorized and provided byAR 360-1.
All editorial content of The Outlookis prepared, edi ted, provided andapproved by the U.S. Army GarrisonVicenza Public Affairs Office in building3, room 101 on Caserma Ederle inVicenza, Italy. Telephone DSN 634-7000,
The Outlook is published weekly bythe USAG V icenza PAO, Unit 31401, Box10, APO AE 09630. It is printed by CentroStampa Editoriale SRL, Grisignano (VI)0444-414-303.
Editorial publication is an authorizedsection for members of the U.S. Armyoverseas. Contents of The Outlook arenot necessarily the official views of, orendorsed by , the U.S. government,Department of Defense, Department ofthe Army, Installation ManagementCommand -Europe, U.S. Army GarrisonVicenza or the U.S. Army SouthernEuropean Task Force.
Submissions: Send all submissionsfor publication to editor@ eur.army.mil.Submission s should be made via e -mailand must be received by Monday at noonfor th at week’s publication.
The editor reserves the right to edit allsubmissions for style, brevity and clarity.Circulation is 2,500 per week.
At your service
UMUC Field Rep
2009 ushers in our firstyear as U.S. Army Africa -and it promises to be anexciting year! Although ourfundamental Army Valuesremain unchanged,transformation has given usnew responsibilities, missionand focus. Forging a newpath as the Army componentfor U.S. Africa Command willbe challenging and rewarding- but our azimuth to the futureis true.
Our Vision: SETAF will beAmerica’s premier Armyteam dedicated toachieving positive changein Africa.
Our transformationsymbolizes America’senduring commitment toAfrica. Yet the Armyrecognizes that SETAF’scurrent structure and size areinadequate to attain this vision.So our headquarters willcontinue to evolve during 2009in composition and structure.Regardless of size, we sharea responsibility to create aworld-class organization thatis well-designed, expertly runand mission-focused. Wemust act now to lay thefoundation for our futuresuccess.
Our Mission: SETAF, inconcert with national andinternational partners,conducts sustained securityengagement with Africanland forces to promotepeace, stability and securityin Africa. As directed,deploys as a contingencyheadquarters in support ofcrisis response.
As we take on new
responsibilities, I expect eachof you to be guided by thefollowing principles: foster afavorable attitude towardsthe U.S. everywhere you go;be team players go beyondcooperation to collaboration;add value to existingprograms in Africa withoutdisruption or confusion;exemplify professionalism inall your actions and promotethe same in our Africanpartners; maintain a strongrelationship with our Italianally and host - remember weare guests in their country;share your experiences andlearn lessons.
Our missions in Africa willcontinue to be both complexand novel as situationschange. But we will learn andadapt quickly so we can moveforward boldly, notbureaucratically.
Our successful launch asU.S. Army Africa team likeno other is a direct result ofyour hard work. As we goforward, everyone must be atthe top of their game becausethere is enormous opportunityin 2009, and we intend to seizeit. The rewards are high: achance to engage with ourAfrican partners to forestallcrises, rather than merelyrespond. Together, we willmake a positive difference forour nation, and for the peopleof Africa.
Change your homepageand keep yourself informed atwww.setaf.army.mil.
recently announced 2009 is theYear of the NCO, which meansgreat things are in store for ourNCOs this year.
Both Maj. Gen. Garrett andI feel strongly about thisinitiative, and we will work hardto ensure NCOs from SETAFand the Vicenza militarycommunity receive the honorand recognition they deserve.
Starting Jan. 29, you will seean NCO from Vicenza featuredweekly in both the Outlook andon the SETAF Web site. Thisis a terrific opportunity toshowcase the hard work anddedication our NCOsdemonstrate every day.
Once a month, you canexpect to see in-depth articlesin the Outlook and the SETAFWeb site. These articles willexplore the four pillars of
education, fitness, leadershipdevelopment and pride in servicethat form the foundation of theYear of the NCO program.
Additionally, you will seecommercials and feature spotson AFN, further highlighting ourhigh-speed NCOs.
You can learn more about theYear of the NCO on the ArmyWeb site at http://www4.army.mil/yearofthenco/home.php. There you will findinformation about initiatives,such as: the Warrior UniversityWeb site, where NCOs can getcollege credit for militaryschooling; an improved MasterFitness Course, which will focuson physical and mental fitness;and the NCO CongressionalFellowship Program, which willfor the first time assign twosergeants major to the Houseand Senate Armed Services
Committee as official ArmyLegislative Liaison officers.
It has long been recognizedthat NCOs are the backbone ofthe Army, and initiatives such asthese will advertise this fact.
This is going to be an excitingyear for the NCO Corps, andI’m proud to represent theNCOs in the Vicenza militarycommunity – the best in theworld. Airborne!
Command Sgt. Maj. Earl RiceSETAF Command Sgt. Major
SETAF, Vicenza military communityramp up for Year of NCO
IMCOM press release
HEIDELBERG, Germany -Winter weather conditions areideal for fun activities, especiallyfor children, but they also canincrease the number ofaccidents.
The Installation ManagementCommand-Europe Safety Officeis advising everyone to stayaware while outside and followthe following safety rules whenice skating, sliding or just walkingon frozen ponds and lakes:
*Everyone should know, andparents shall emphasize to theirchildren, that the most importantsafety rule to learn is that there’sno such thing as safe ice.
*Never go or skate alone.Children shouldn’t be allowed ona ponds or lakes unsupervised.
*In Germany, the ice has tobe checked and inspected by thelocal community. It has to have
a thickness of 15cm (about 5inches) before it can be entered.Watch for signs or ask membersof the local community if thearea is approved. Be aware thatconditions might change.
*Beware of ice aroundpartially submerged objects, suchas trees, logs, brush,embankments, or damstructures; the ice is thin aroundthese objects.
*Don’t enter ice after dark.*Don’t congregate in one
area.*Stay away from cracks,
seams, pressure ridges, slushyareas and darker areas thatsignify thinner ice.
Other factors that have to betaken into consideration whenassessing the strength of ice are:
·Ice is not only subject totemperatures from above butalso from constant thawingtemperatures from below due to
water temperatures in the 40degree Fahrenheit range (about4 degrees Celsius).
*Areas where there’s anywater movement due to eitheroverland runoff or undergroundsprings, and shaded or sunnyareas, all lead to freezing andthawing conditions.
+Snow is another contributingfactor, as snow cover acts asinsulator and ice may actuallybegin to melt despite freezingtemperatures.
Keep in mind …there is nosuch thing as safe ice.
Frozen ponds, lakes: fun but dangerous
Michael J. LeahyUniversity of Maryland University College,
As a field representative, he provides educational information to theVicenza community. Leahy counsels students on enrolling in college,planning degree programs and also performs unofficial evaluations.
“I assist students in filling out VA, financial aid, scholarship andenrollment forms. I also provide job opportunities for community memberswho would like to teach for UMUC,” Leahy said. He also volunteers todo presentations and participates in events to generate interest ineducation
Leahy’s office is in the education center. Hours are, Monday-Friday,8 a.m.-5 p.m.. For more information call 634-7055, or e-mail at:[email protected]. Michael J. Leahy, UMUC,
Field representative
4 THE Outlook Jan. 22, 2009
Community events
SETAF PAO Press Release
Are you ready to see thefuture of the Army? Visit thePEO Soldier display in theIMMA Motor Pool (bldg 266)Feb. 9 and 10 between 9 a.m.and 4 p.m. and you will. Thenext generation of Army gear,including the most technologicallyadvanced weapons systems,cutting-edge communicationtechnology, innovative clothingand ground-breaking equipment,will be on display.
PEO Soldier, which stands forProgram Executive OfficeSoldier, is the Army organizationresponsible for every item ofclothing and piece of equipmentSoldiers wear or carry. PEO
Soldier’s objective is two-fold.Develop the best gear and fieldthis gear as quickly as possible,thus making the Soldiers the bestequipped, best protected andmost lethal.
Some of the display highlightswill include:
*Interceptor Body Armorwith Improved Outer TacticalVest and associated plates
In the past Soldiers wereoutfitted with one piece ofequipment at a time. Little orno regard was given to how theindividual pieces work together,according to the PEO Soldierwebsite at peosoldier.army.mil.PEO Soldier, on the other hand,looks at Soldiers as systems.
This new concept evaluates howeach piece of equipment workstogether; everything a Soldierwears or carries is part of anintegrated system. As a result,Soldiers are now better equippedand protected, redundancies inequipment have been eliminatedand levels of effectiveness andcomfort have been increased,according to the PEO Soldierwebsite.
The Interceptor Body Armorillustrates this concept. Initially,it was designed to be worn overthe Soldier ’s Army CombatUniform. Yet, in response tofeedback from Soldiers whostated that wearing it that waycreated bulk and produced heatstress, PEO Soldier engineers incooperation with their industrypartners designed the long-sleeve Army Combat Shirt.
The flame resistant shirt hassleeves similar to the FR ACUand a cool, moisture wickingfabric over the torso areascovered by the IBA. Thus byreducing heat stress, Soldiers’comfort is improved and missioneffectiveness is increased.
At the display you can alsopreview the new Army ServiceUniform, which simplifies thecurrent uniform whilepreserving tradition andproviding quality, fit andconvenience. The new uniformis to be available in military
Future of Army on display at Caserma EderlePEO Soldier highlights next generation Army gear, weaponry
clothing stores by next summer,and Soldiers will be required tohave it by the end of fiscal 2014,
according to the PEO Soldierwebsite. Visit the PEO Soldierdisplay and see it and the futureof the Army.
The Enhanced Night Visiongoggles and Sniper Night Sight willbe on display.
The Interceptor Body Armor with Improved Outer Tactial Vests willbe somewhat familiar to all U.S. Soldiers. (U.S. Army photos)
VCC press releaseSpecial to the Outlook
The Vicenza MilitarySpouses and Civilian’s Club,recently changed their name tothe Vicenza Community Club toreflect the members’ desire tobecome more of a communityorganization, according to clubpresident Richard Breen.
The club is trying to get moremen involved and “break someof the traditional molds” saysBreen who became presidentlast May at the urging ofMelissa Helmick, wife of Lt.Gen. Frank Helmick andDebbie Jordan, wife of thedental clinic commander Col.Andy Jordan.
One of the recent clubadditions is a men’s poker club,he says, since there aren’tmany opportunities for men toget together on post. Anotheraddition will be more eveningevents, like an evening ball andCarnevale celebration slated forFebruary. According to Breen,these events will provide outlets
for people who otherwise can’tmake the normal monthlyluncheons, because of work orother commitments.
Other mini clubs within theVCC include wine tasting, anagriturismo club, shopping and abunko club. If a member has aparticular interest, the VCC cansponsor a club and then sustainit and run it so it’s effective, saysBreen.
“People who join the VCCare motivated by a sense ofcommunity, an opportunity tomake a difference and to enjoya camaraderie with others,” saysBreen. In the 2007-2008 season,he calculates that the clubdonated more than $94,000 tothe Vicenza military community.
The annual membership drivehappens in September, saysBreen, although you can still jointhe club now. To join, there areapplications at the post thriftshop or you can email Breen [email protected] .After the first of the year, themembership fee dropped from$20 to $15 dollars.
According to membershipchairperson Sara Nantz, the clubhas moe than 230 members, themajority of which are women.However, says Breen, this yearhas seen an increase in the
Vicenza Community Club moves to add more men
number of male members, notleast of which is Breen himself.
“This year is the largestmembership ever that reachesacross the entire Vicenzamilitary community,” says
Breen.The next VCC event will be
a luncheon Jan. 21 with a theme,“Once upon a time in China” incelebration of the Chinese NewYear.
Richard Breen and Sara Nantz discuss upcoming events at a recent VCC event. (Photo courtesy VCC)
5 THE Outlook Jan.22, 2009
Community events
Continued from page 1“We were there to train
members of the RwandanDefense Force to U.S.standards for airlifting cargo,”Jones said. “We ended uppartnering with an African nationto help get their mission done.”
The Soldiers’ assignmentbegan Jan. 7, when 36Rwandans gathered in the third-floor classroom in the Kigaliairport terminal. Jones coveredthe role of a unit movementofficer and the basics of loadingmilitary gear onto aircraft. Rusethen explained how to handle andmark hazardous material forshipment.
“The RDF is veryprofessional ,” Jones said. “Thestudents were very attentive andeager to learn and they did nothesitate to ask questions.”
Soon, RDF soldiers werebuilding shipping pallets andpreparing equipment for airmovement. Their first test wasto load and unload woodenpallets from an MI-17 helicopterfrom the Rwanda Air Force.They also learned how toprepare vehicles to load onplanes.
On Jan. 14, when a U.S. AirForce C-17 landed in Kigali, theRwandan team was prepared todo its first mission – loading theirequipment onto Americanplanes.
“We were helping the RDFwith materials that they neededairlifted to their peacekeeping
mission in Darfur,” Ruse said.“We helped make sure it wasdone right, so there weren’t anyhiccups with the Air Force”
Senior Rwandan militaryleaders and the local press wereon hand to see the planes loaded,Jones said.
“There were highexpectations, but everythingwent well,” Jones said. “Wemade sure that our command hasa good name in Rwanda and setthe standard for futuremissions.”
In December 2008, SouthernEuropean Task Force began itstransformation to become theArmy component to U.S. AfricaCommand. The mission Jonesand Ruse accomplished is partof an ongoing U.S. effort to buildstrong partnerships with Africannations.
Both Soldiers relied onknowledge from previousassignments. Jones returnedfrom a combat deployment inJalalabad, Afghanistan, with the173rd Airborne Brigade CombatTeam, where he gained valuablelogistics experience – especiallypreparing equipment for airlifts.
“I had been through thatprocess with the brigade, sowhen I got back fromdeployment, they asked me totrain others in Africa,” he said.
Ruse, a tracked vehiclemechanic who served six monthsin Iraq with the 3rd InfantryDivision, arrived in 2007. Ruseis an expert in handling
Soldiers assist Rwandan airlift for peacekeepers
chemicals, fuel and ammunition;he is certified to train others.
Jones and Ruse made theirfirst trip to Africa in July 2008to train Ugandan soldiers inEntebbe, Uganda. The Rwandamission allowed Ruse and Jonesto further explore Africanculture. A Rwandan captaineven invited Ruse and Jones tohis home, where they met hisfamily and enjoyed a home-cooked meal of fish, meat andrice.
“It reminded me of backhome,” Ruse said. “They were
very friendly and welcoming.”On the tarmac though, the
RDF were all business. TheRwandans quickly put the skillsthey learned during training intopractice, beating the standardU.S. Air Force loading times,Jones said. Both Jones and Ruseassisted their Rwandan partnersduring the upload, but mostlycredit the RDF Soldiers for theirmotivation.
“For us, this was rewarding.They learned really well and tookcharge,” Ruse said. “For them,it was a mission accomplished.”
(Far left) U.S. Air Force C-17crew look on as Rwandansoldiers load gear onto a C-17. (Left) Rwandan DefenseForce soldiers load boxesonto an MI-17 helicopterduring training at KigaliInternational Airport. (Below)A Rwandan soldier greets aU.S. Air Force C-17 as itarrives in Kgali to airliftRwandan equipment tointernational peacekeepers inthe Sudan. (Photos by StaffSgt. Brian Ruse)
(Above) 1st Lt. Charlie Jones, a U.S. Army Africa transportation officer, worked with Rwandan soliders toprepare their equipment for airlift to Darfur. (Below right) A Rwandan Defense Force soldier offers hissentiment on a mission accomplished. (Photos by Staff. Sgt. Brian Ruse)
Now ShowingNow ShowingNow ShowingNow ShowingNow ShowingEderle Theater
Camp Darby TheaterJan. 22 Quantum of Solace (PG-13) 6 p.m.Jan. 23 Twilight (PG-13) 6 p.m.Jan. 24 The Curious Case of Benjamin Button (PG13) 6 p.m.Jan. 25 Bolt (PG) 2 p.m.
Admission: Age 12 and over $4, under age 12, $2.The Ederle Theatre box office opens one hour prior to show time.
6 THE Outlook Jan. 22, 2009
Looking for the movie synopsis? Check out the AAFES Website: www.aafes.com, scroll to the bottom of the page and click onMovie Schedule.
Looking to buy or sell items? Check out MWR’s Marketplace at www.mwrmarketplace.com.
Out&About
Ski Italy with ITR/ODRFolgaria discounts
Going skiing orsnowboarding to Folgaria?ODR has discount coupons.Adults can save 5.50 EuroMon-Fri, 6 Euro on Sat & Sunand kids save 1.50 Euro. Juststop by Odr and pick up asmany as you need.
Ski tripsEvery weekend ODR takes
you to the slopes. Jan 24Kronplatz, and Jan 31Madonna Di Campiglio.Looking for a romantic get-away? The overnight toPanarotta on Jan 31 is just theplace. This is a beautiful smallski village and the ODR tripincludes transportation plus full
board and accommodations. Call634-7453 for information on allski trips.
Discover CortinaiTR! Trips takes you to
Cortina the pearl of the
Dolomites on Jan 25, 6 a.m.–9 p.m.
Discover this Alpine villageand taste hot chocolate Italianstyle as you savor the last ofthe holiday season. Registerby calling 634-7094.
Hit the slopes with ITR/ODR. (Photo by Laura Kreider, Outlook Staff)
Road to Monticello ConteOtto closed
Via Morosana is closedthrough June for work that willwiden the road. Drivers fromCaserma Ederle going toMonticello Conte Otto,Cavazzale or Vigardolo usingVia Ospedaletto should go leftoff Via Ospedaletto as usual,but instead of turning right at theround about, go straight through,keep on SS53 and take ViaNicolosi when it comes up onyour right.
Book drive for Kenyanfree lending library
In support of an initiative bythe local Italian volunteer group“VI Press” (Vicenza PressVolunteer Association), theVicenza military community iscollecting books in English toship to Kenya where VI Pressis helping set up a free lendinglibrary. Please bring your booksto the public affairs office inbldg 3, room 106A. The kind ofbooks you would find in a publiclibrary would be appropriate.Deadline for donations is Feb.6. For more information, callAnna Terracino at 634-7169.
Fairs, ice rinks, concerts
Vivi la casa - HomeGallery, Jan. 23-25, in Verona,Viale del Lavoro, 8, about 38miles west of Vicenza. Classicand modern furniture solutions;products and services for thehouse and the wedding day.Admission fee: Fri 3 euro; Sat
– Sun 7 euro. Free entrance forchildren up to 12 years. Formore details in English visit http:// w w w. h o m e - g a l l e r y . i t /hg_english/evento_eng.asp.
Old Records Show - Tradefair of used and collectors’records, Jan. 24-25, 10 a.m. – 7p.m., in Pordenone, VialeTreviso, 1 33170 Pordenone -about 92 miles northeast ofVicenza. Admission fee: 4 euro.
Ice rink , in Torri diQuartesolo, next to the WarnerVillage Cinemas, Via Brescia,11. Open until Mar. 1; weekdays2 p.m. – 2 a.m.; Sun and holidays10 a.m. – 2 a.m. Entrance fee:5 euro, ice-skate rental: 5 euro.Reduced: 4 euro entrance feeand 4 euro ice-skate rental forchildren up to 12 years old.
Ice rink, in Asiago, ViaStazione, about about 37 northof Vicenza.
Mon, Wed, Fri 10 a.m. – noon;Tue, Thu 10 a.m. - noon and 3:30p.m. - 5 p.m.; Sat 10 a.m. - noon;3:30 p.m. - 5:30 p.m.; 9 p.m. to11 p.m. When it has hockeygames, it closes at 5:15 p.m. (tocheck if there is going to be ahockey game, call 0424/64144);Sun 10 a.m. - noon; 3 p.m. - 6p.m. Entrance fee: 5 euro; ice-skate rental: 4 euro. Discountfor families of 4 or more: 6.50euro for entrance fee and ice-skate rental; Groups of 15 ormore: 7 euro for entrance feeand ice-skate rental.
Antique market , Jan. 25,Piazzola sul Brenta , (PD), Villa
Contarini, about 16 miles east ofVicenza. More than 500vendors.
Classical Music Concert,Jan. 25, 5 p.m., in Vicenza,Teatro Comunale, Viale Mazzini,39. Music by G. Rossini, W. A.Mozart, J. Offenbach. Ticket:6.50 euro. Reduced 3.50 euro forchildren younger than 13.
Free concerts, exhibitsand classes:
Live Jazz music: from the30’s to present day, Jan. 22, 9p.m., in Recoaro Terme, ViaMontagna Spaccata, 4, about 30miles west of Vicenza.
Akusticalma in Concert –Jazz music, Jan. 22, 9 p.m., inVicenza, Strada Vicinale MonteCrocetta.
Radikanera Funk-RockConcert, Jan. 23, 10 p.m., inTorrebelvicino, Caneva Center,
Via XXV Luglio, about 17 milessoutheast of Vicenza.
Conservatory students inConcert, Jan. 24, 5 p.m., inVicenza, Santa Chiara Chapel,Contrà Santa Chiara.
Aim Indie Rock, Jan. 24,10:30 p.m., in Vicenza, TotemClub, Via Vecchia Ferriera, 166.
Exhibits
Popular and oriental stylenativity scenes exhibition, Jan.24-25, 9 a.m. – noon and 3:30p.m. – 6 p.m., in Castelgomberto,Piazza Marconi, about 19 milesnorthwest of Vicenza. Freeentrance.
Explore the sky ,Astronomical Observatory ofArcugnano, Jan. 27, 8:30 p.m.,Via S. Giustina, 127 – about fivemiles south of Vicenza. Viewthe sky and the planets in greatdetail with the observatory’s
Ice rinks, concerts, markets, book drive, old records
telescope.Punk Rock from
Netherlands + Sun City FallsHCM, Jan. 27, 9:30 p.m., inVicenza, Bar Sartea, Contrà SanFelice e Fortunato.
Jazz Live musica withQuintet Feat Mike Moreno,Jan. 28, 10 p.m., in Marostica,Piazza degli Scacchi, Panic JazzClub.
Movies in English
Jan. 26, Madagascar:Escape 2 Africa
plays at the Odeon Theaterin downtown Vicenza, CorsoPalladio, 176. Tickets: 6 euro.Times: 5 p.m., 7 p.m. and 9 p.m.
For the schedule of upcomingEnglish-language movies at thego to the web site, visitwww.mymovies. i t /c inema/vicenza/6217/
The ice skating rink located in Asiago is close by and warm inside with a clean surfaced floor. (Photo byLaura Kreider, Outlook Staff)
Religiousactivities
Community notes
Caserma Ederle ChapelCall the chapel at 634-7519
(0444-71-7519) for details onpost religious activities.
Chaplain Crisis Line:To speak with a chaplain afterhours call 634-KARE (634-5273).
Saturday services4p.m.: Sacrament of
Reconciliation, or byappointment.
5 p.m.: Vigil Mass
Sunday Services9 a.m.: Roman Catholic MassMass is held weekdays at
noon.9 a.m.: Protestant Sunday
school and AWANAs (Sept.through May in Vicenza HighSchool)
10:45 a.m.: Catholic religiouseducation (Sept.-May inVicenza High School)
Latter Day Saints (LDS):Scripture study is held eachMonday, noon-1 p.m. at theChapel. Sunday services, 9:30a.m.-12:30 p.m. downtown. Fordetails, call Sean Peterson, 335-8219492.
All briefs must be received at [email protected] noon Monday , or by Friday at 4 p.m. if Monday is a holiday.
Memorial service plannedJohn Larry Cannon passed
away on Dec. 23, 2008. He wasa long-standing resident of theVicenza community. Cannonserved here as a Soldier and thenas a civilian employee for the509th Signal Battalion.
There will be a memorialservice to honor Cannon Jan. 30at 1:30 p.m. in the post chapel.
ACAP briefingsTransitioning Soldiers, retirees,
veterans who have ETS’d theArmy within the last six monthsand family members of thesecategories are eligible to attendboth the advanced resume classand the federal jobs applicationclass at the ACAP Center bldg28.
If you are a transitioningSoldier you must first completethe Transition AssistanceProgram workshop.
All attendees to the advancedresume class must have a draftresume.
Feb. 11: Advanced resume8:30-11:30 a.m.
Feb. 11: Federal jobapplication 9-11:30 a.m.
Also available: VA benefitsbriefing, disability transitionprogram briefing, and individualcounseling for sensitivediscussions with a VArepresentative.
To schedule, call 634-7189or stop by the ACAP Office,bldg. 28 or go to www.acapexpress.army.mil/ loginand reschedule an appointment.
Job OpportunitiesThe Auto Skills center is
seeking a contractor to provideautomotive detailing servicesusing the west end of Bldg. 44.
Equipment provided include:high pressure washer, industrialvacuum cleaner, wet carpetshampooer and pneumaticbuffer. Contractor will providesupplies. Only individuals withexperience will be taken inconsideration.
The NAF Contracting Officeis seeking Artistic Director tobe contracted. Minimumrequirements include; requirededucation and experience, BAdegree in Education, extensivebackground and experience intheatre education and theatreartistic direction, coordination,staging, and music.
If interested provide resumeto the NAF Contracting officevia e-mail to [email protected]
Parent Child DanceParents and children can
enjoy a special Carnevale
themed dinner dance Feb. 21, 6-9 p.m. at Club V.
The adult menu is $19 andchildren’s tickets are $14.
Tickets are on sale at Child,Youth and School Servicelocations and the Tax ReliefOffice.
Call 634-5087 for information.
Disney’s Armed Forcessalute tickets
Active and Retired U.S.Military personnel may obtaincomplimentary five-DayDisney’s Armed Forces Saluteticket and may purchase up tofive five-day tickets for $99 perticket (tax not included).
Visit www.vicenzaMWR.com for details.
Club Beyondspaghetti dinner
Join the Vicenza communityat the Caserma Ederle chapelJan. 27 from 5-6:30 p.m. for afree spaghetti dinner provided byClub Beyond teens.
Donations are accepted, sobring a friend and support theannual service project in CzechRepublic this April.
Super bowl partyThe Arena Super Bowl party
offers surround sound on the bigscreen and projection tv’s in theLion’s Den.
There is a $5 cover chargethat includes finger foods anddoor prizes throughout the night.
28-31. Come early to find thebest bargains on scrap framingmaterials, sewing and potterykits, samples and scrap bookingmaterials.
For details stop by the ArtCenter or call 634-7074.
School ImprovementProgram meeting
Vicenza Middle/HighSchool will have their monthlyschool improvement meetingJan. 28.
Both parents and studentsare invited to attend themeeting to learn more aboutwhat Vicenza faculty are doingto improve critical thinking andinformation literacy skillswithin the student body.
contest. Submit an originalpoem of any style and anylength to the USO by Feb. 12about the one you love themost. The top poem selectedwill receive a prize.
Level One Italian class isbeing offered from Feb. 23 toApril 22.
The classes are heldMondays and Wednesdaysfrom 5:45–7:45 p.m. at theEducation Center. Course feeis $118 plus 11 Euro for thebook. Sign up at the USO.
RockBand 2 is now at theUSO. Come out and show usyour skills on our new drum setand wireless guitars.
USO Birthday celebrationwill be held at the USO on Feb.4 starting at noon.
Join us for refreshments.Come to the USO for
Super Bowl Sunday andenjoy finger food and watchthe game with surround soundon our leather reclining sofas.Party kicks off at 6 p.m.
The USO is located in bldg 9A.Hours are Monday–Friday 11a.m.–10 p.m. and weekends fromnoon-6 p.m.
The USO phone number is 634-7156.
Passports left in BagramThe Vicenza passport office
has established contact with thepassport agents in Bagram AirBase, Afghanistan.
If you are a Soldier from 173dwho applied for a tourist passportduring the last deployment inAfghanistan and still have notreceived the passport, stop by thepassport office, leave yourinformation and they will send theinformation forward to help inobtaining your passport.
Passport office hours areMonday-Wednesday and Fridayfrom 9–11.30 a.m. and 1 – 4:30p.m. The office is open Thursdayfrom 1 – 4:30 p.m.
The passport office is locatedin bldg 28, next to the MilitaryPersonnel Division. Call: 634-7721or 0444/71-7721 from off post.
Calling all multiculturalspouses
Jan. 23, 2:30-3:30 p.m. a guestspeaker from the Passport andSoggiorno office will discuss theprocess for a green card and thenaturalization steps.
Make reservations at 634-7500.
InfoX is comingThe next Information Exchange
(Info X) will be Jan. 28 beginningat 10 a.m. upstairs in the Arena.
Bring your issues to seniorleaders who can help.
Can’t make it in person? Youcan call or e-mail your issue.
The phone number is 634-7411or 0444-71-7411 from off post.
E-mail issues by going to theUSAG Vicenza Web site:www.usag.vicenza.army.mil ,click on the Info X Issues link onthe left-hand side and follow theinstructions.
The Info X is broadcast live overAFN 106FM and available onchannel 142 on your AFNdecoder.
Family Advocacy issues topic of Up Front with SETAF, Garrison commandersUp Front , the monthly
AFN radio show featuringSETAF Commander Maj.Gen. Burke Garrett III andUSAG Vicenza CommanderCol. Erik Daiga is set forFriday beginning at 8 a.m. onAFN 106FM.
This month, thecommanders are hosting twospecial guests; TammyWilbur-Hoistad (on left),Army Community Service’sFamily Advocacy Programacting manager will talk aboutprograms for community
members on Friday’s Up Frontradio show. She’ll be followedby Carolyn Parse-Rizzo (right)FAP’s Sexual AssaultResponse coordinator.Get the
answers Up Front Friday in the8 a.m. hour on AFN 106FMThe Eagle. AFN 106FM canalso be found on channel 142on your AFN decoder.
8 THE Outlook Jan. 22, 2009
Renovation of thefitness center
Phase-4 renovation ofthe fitness center begins onJan 21. Parts of the gymand the weight room willbe off limits due to thisconstruction until Jan. 31.Plan accordingly.
BadmintonGive the Badminton
Tournament a try on Jan30. The mandatoryparticipant meeting is Jan27. For information call634-7009.
Volleyball seasonUnit level volleyball
begins Feb 10. Your entrysheet with your alpharoster must be submittedto the Sports Office by Feb9. The coaches meeting isTuesday, Feb. 10 at either2:30 or 5:30 p.m. Get yourteams ready. Call 634-7009 for information.Sports and Fitness
Class rates loweredThe cost for taking
fitness classes at thefitness center has beenlowered to $3 per classwhen purchasing monthlypasses.
Call the fitness centerat 634-6222 for details.
Changes for VHScheerleading camp
The Vicenza HighSchool CheerleadingSquad will host acheerleading day camp forall community members ingrades K-6. Campers willlearn cheers, chants andbasic jumps.
The camp date hasbeen changed to Jan. 31from 12- 3p.m. Camp willbe held in the LunaBubble.
All campers will be ableto cheer at half-time withthe VHS cheer squad atthe next home game.Registration begins at11:45 a.m. on the day ofcamp. Cost is $15. Spaceis limited to the first 50campers.
Youth bowlingleague
Youth ages 6-18 canenjoy the fun of after-school bowling everyTuesday.
Open registration runsJan. 19-Feb. 4 throughYouth Sports and theleague will run Feb. 10-March 24.
Call 634-6151 forregistration information.
Sportshorts
Peewee sized, but big actionStory and photo byLourdes FenandezOutlook volunteer
The first Peewee (ages 6-7)basketball game was held Jan.14 at the Villaggio Gym.
Georgia Salyer, CYS Sportsand Fitness Director, said “weare very impressed with the skillsthat the Peewees had for theirfirst game. “We had a lot ofbuckets made and for the mostpart the children dribbled and didnot run with the ball too much.”Sports teach children to work aspart of a team and keep themhealthy and active, she added.
Master. Sgt. EvelinMontealegre, SETAF chaplainassistant, and Sgt. 1st Class
Maria Escobedo, SETAF G4,have coached the kids for twoyears. This year they arecoaching the Wild Cats.
Escobedo said that they do notmind the extra hours because “itis mostly a privilege, the parentsare always very appreciative ofour efforts, and the kids love tolearn.”
She added that it is “veryexciting to watch them [the kids]make progress” and that “theyhave to adapt and overcomedifferent personalities, attitudesand ethnic backgrounds.”
The Peewee group plays onlyother CYS Vicenza teams anddoes not keep score. The focusis on teaching the fundamentalsand having fun.
Both teams make a break for the far end of the court during the firstPeewee basketball games of the season in Vicenza. The leauge for6-7 year olds, provides plenty of exercise for the young children andhelps them establish the basics of teamwork and sportsmanship.
Story by Angela Westonand Laura Kreider
On Saturday the Cougarshosted Milan and easily got thewins.
“Overall the team made a lotof mistakes and didn’t executeeffectively on Friday althoughthe score would indicatedifferently,” Head Coach, JohnParker said.
“However on Saturday theplayers were more willing tosacrifice the scoring forensuring proper execution wasdone,” he added.
Vicenza boys won (71-20and 53-10).
The team was lead by juniorFabian Severson who had 20points hitting on four three-pointattempts in limited play. KanMiller, a sophomore, hit 3-of-5for seven points. Nearly all theCougars scored between thetwo contests this weekend.Shakeel Skeete had a gamehigh of 14 points on Friday andJames Erickson added 12 pointsand 10 rebounds.
“To win at Naples we can
not play as we did against Milan.It will be a tough test for theboys, but if they can execute andbelieve in one another they canplay with anybody,” Parker said.
The Vicenza Cougars girlsteam lost the first game 33-31but won the second 55-46.
Adriona Cleveland scored 26of the 55 points again, being thehighest scoring player of theweekend.
“Cleveland was our highscoring player today and she didreally well on the defense aswell,” said Stephanie Tutton,VHS assistant coach for the girlsbasketball team.
“Last night was harder, welearned what we needed toknow, so today we were ready,”commented Ebony Tyson, whoscored four points in the secondgame.
“They were strong in thedefense, but our team has beenvery good and we plan torepresent Vicenza when we goto the Europeans, we just planto play harder,” she said.
This weekend, the Cougarstravel to Naples.
Cougars take 3-of-4 from Milan
(Above) VicenzaCougars MickeyStoner, right,releases a jumpshot, while Milan’sElliot O’Connor, No.15, attempts ablock. (Left) PerriSweed, No. 52,attempts torebound the ballwhile surroundedby two defensiveplayers, VeronicaMaes, No. 13, left,and Natalie Forstar.(Photos by LauraKreider, OutlookStaff)