Air Force update for COVID-19 Published April 29, 2020 By Secretary of the Air Force Public Affairs WASHINGTON (AFNS) -- In an effort to minimize the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 and to prioritize the health and safety of Department of the Air Force personnel, the following modifications have been made: April 29, 2020 In response to COVID-19, the Department of the Air Force is posturing to identify and provide support to the space industrial base, assessing sectors most impacted by the pandemic while creating an environment where companies in need can compete fairly in the event of supplemental federal relief funds. Read the announcement here: https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/2168917/space-force-acquisition-council-looks-to-safeguard-space-industrial-base-from-c The Air Force F-35A Lightning II Demonstration and 388th Fighter Wing will be performing a formation flyover throughout the state of Utah, Thursday, April 30, beginning at 1 p.m., in salute to everyone on the frontlines in the fight against COVID-19, as well as those staying at home to “flatten the curve” of the virus. Learn more about the flyover here: https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2167892/f-35a-lightning-ii-demonstration-team-388th-fighter-wing-to-salute-utah-with-st/ To help prepare for natural disasters or pandemics, such as COVID-19, members from across Vandenberg Air force Base, Calif., participate in different base exercises throughout the year. These types of exercises have helped our Airmen at the 30th Medical Group to be prepared and to have a plan! Watch video of their preparation here: In this challenging time when Reservists and their families have to adjust to the limitations caused by the COVID-19 outbreak, the Airman and Family Readiness staff is still here to help virtually and by telephone and is providing standard and new resources such as the Military One Source, Employee Assistance Program, Military Family Life counselors and the Air Force Aid Society. Read more about Airman and Family Readiness resources here: https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/2165887/afr-provides-reservists-their-families-resources-during-covid-19-pandemic/ Airmen and Soldiers with the Massachusetts National Guard are working alongside the Army Reserves Urban Augmentation Medical Task Force 94-1, at a public health hospital in Tewksbury, Massachusetts. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368745/mass-guard-army-reserve-combine-forces-large-scale-joint-operation Airman with the 125th Air Expeditionary Squadron mobile testing team assist nurses in testing community members. See B-roll of their efforts here: The Hawaii National Guard recently stood up a Joint Medical response unit for the COVID-19 Pandemic. Task Force Medical, is comprised of traditional and full time guardsmen who are professionals in their field. Task Force Medical was assembled quickly and began training on the specific COVID-19 tasks they may be required to perform. Watch more about their efforts here: By utilizing the resources and talents of Airmen across Kadena Air Base, the Wing Innovations team determined how to best assist their community. It was decided that designing and printing face shields would be best in conserving medical PPE. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2168328/kadena-3d-prints-shields-in-covid-19-fight/ Air Force units have recently conducted America Salutes flyovers in their local areas honoring COVID-19 responders and essential workers. Below are links to imagery from the units that have conducted flyovers: 122nd Fighter Wing performs Air Force Salutes flyover over Fort Wayne, Indiana Video B-roll: 152nd Airlift Wing C-130s flyover over Reno, Lake Tahoe, Carson City and other cities in Nevada Video B-Roll: Photos: Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. Hill AFB to Eielson AFB: Cooperation between first, newest F-35A wing speeds stand-up, shapes future - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2168009/hill-to-eielson-cooperation-between-first-newest-f-35a-wing-speeds-stand-up-sha/ Mount Rainier Search-and-Rescue Training for Upcoming Hiking Season - https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/2168187/mount-rainier-search-and-rescue-training-for-upcoming-hiking-season/ Remotely piloted aircraft crews maintain mission readiness during COVID-19 - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2167931/remotely-piloted-aircraft-crews-maintain-mission-readiness-during-covid-19/ The Military Child in the midst of a pandemic - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2163761/the-military-child-in-the-midst-of-a-pandemic/ Air Force recruiting squadron uses virtual bingo as a resiliency tool to boost morale during COVID-19 - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2168354/air-force-recruiting-squadron-uses-virtual-bingo-as-a-resiliency-tool-to-boost/ Little Rock AFB FTAC emerges virtually - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2169086/team-little-rock-ftac-emerges-virtually/ Spangdahlem AB block 50 F-16 first in USAFE to cross 10,000 flight hours threshold - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2168950/spangdahlem-block-50-f-16-first-in-usafe-to-cross-10000-flight-hours-threshold/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 28, 2020. CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 354 (+3) 7 123 (+5) 0 Civilian 192 (+1) 10 68 0 Dependents 225 (+3) 6 69 (+1) 0 Contractors 76 (+1) 5 20 (+1) 1 Total 847 28 280 1 April 28, 2020 The 169th Fighter Wing, South Carolina Air National Guard, saluted the healthcare professionals in South Carolina with a statewide flyover of more than 60 hospitals. See photos of their flyover here: See video of their flyover here: Airmen and Soldiers with the Rhode Island National Guard continued voluntary COVID-19 mapping efforts with the Rhode Island Department of Health to reach contacts of positive cases. This effort is to educate about quarantine and isolation and also ask if anyone is in need of assistance during the COVID-19 pandemic. See video of their efforts here: The New Mexico Air National Guard continues to support the communities around the state. Members of the 150th Mission Support Group and the 210th Red Horse Squadron combined to load, deliver, and unload over 12,000 pounds of food to the Zia Pueblo Northwest. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368579/tacos-deliver-supplies-new-mexico-pueblos The West Virginia National Guard’s Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. James Hoyer, added a sixth line of effort to their COVID-19 response, including state surge capacity and capability as an objective moving forward. Since beginning operations in support of the state’s COVID-19 response 45 days ago, the WVNG has completed 674 missions through our six lines of effort of operationalizing of the event, stabilizing the population, providing logistical movement of critical supplies, innovation, state surge capacity and capability, and conducting data analysis to combat the virus. Currently, 704 members of the WVNG are on duty serving the citizens of the State of West Virginia. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368588/wva-guard-outlines-sixth-line-effort-covid-19-response C-17 Globemaster III aircrew assigned to the 3rd Airlift Squadron, Dover Air Force Base, Delaware, are fitted and trained for personal protective equipment use on April 8, 2020, as the COVID-19 pandemic continues to affect the nation. This training prepared 3rd AS Airmen for any and all Department of Defense COVID-19 response efforts, to include the airlift of COVID-positive U.S. service members. See photos of their efforts here: Airmen from the 621st Contingency Response Wing partnered with The Leaven, Vacaville Fire Department and local churches near Travis Air Force Base, California, to support a food drive to help those in need during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Airmen volunteered to collect nonperishable items and delivered more than 1,600 pounds of food to the Mariposa Head Start Center in Vacaville, California, on April 24, after a two-week food drive. Food items collected included nonperishables such as: canned fruit, vegetables and proteins; grains and cereals; snacks and juice boxes for children. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2167544/airmen-support-food-drive-to-help-those-in-need/ Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. Dynamic response keeps AFGSC mission ready during pandemic - https://www.afgsc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2165770/dynamic-response-keeps-afgsc-mission-ready-during-pandemic/ GPS celebrates 25th year of operation - https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/2166101/gps-celebrates-25th-year-of-operation Ellsworth AFB B-1 plays key role in US, Japan bomber-fighter integration operations - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2167496/ellsworth-afb-b-1-plays-key-role-in-us-japan-bomber-fighter-integration-operati/ Luke Airmen surprise MSgt (ret) Ruth Heeler for her 100th birthday - 71st Rescue Squadron finds new normal - MHAFB Enhances Joint Force Capabilities with Idaho Army National Guard - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2165626/mhafb-enhances-joint-force-capabilities-with-idaho-army-national-guard/ Electronic Signals moves virtual due to COVID-19 - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2167707/electronic-signals-moves-virtual-due-to-covid-19/ 8th Security Forces Squadron innovates with virtual reality training - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2164461/8th-security-forces-squadron-innovates-with-virtual-reality-training/ Showing Respect: Honor Guard continues to serve amid COVID-19 - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2167561/showing-respect-honor-guard-continues-to-serve-amid-covid-19/ Faster, smarter: virtual hiring fair recruits STEM talent - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2166695/faster-smarter-virtual-hiring-fair-recruits-stem-talent/ The U.S. Air Force Lab with MassChallenge selects inaugural cohort - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2167587/the-us-air-force-lab-with-masschallenge-selects-inaugural-cohort/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 27, 2020. CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 351 (+4) 7 118 (+3) 0 Civilian 191 (+5) 10 68 (+9) 0 Dependents 222 (+9) 6 68 0 Contractors 75 5 (-1) 19 (+2) 1 Total 839 28 273 1 April 27, 2020 In a show of national solidarity, the Navy Flight Demonstration Squadron, the Blue Angels, and the Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, will conduct a series of multi-city flyovers over the next two weeks. America Strong is a collaborative salute from the Navy and Air Force to recognize healthcare workers, first responders, and other essential personnel while standing in solidarity with all Americans during the COVID-19 pandemic. The first flyover will occur on April 28th over New York, New Jersey and Philadelphia. Read about the America Strong flyovers here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2165190/america-strong-blue-angels-thunderbirds-to-conduct-multi-city-flyovers-champion/ Learn more about the April 28th flyover here: http://afthunderbirds.com/site/2020/04/25/thunderbirds-blue-angels-to-salute-new-york-new-jersey-and-pennsylvania-covid-19-responders/ Whiteman Air Force Base, Missouri pilots are scheduled to fly over medical facilities in Kansas City, Missouri, April 28th to honor and express Whiteman AFB’s gratitude for all medical and healthcare professionals, essential employees and volunteers in the fight against COVID-19. Read more about what to expect at the B-52 flyover in Kansas City, Missouri here: https://www.whiteman.af.mil/News/Article/2164532/whiteman-afb-b-2-stealth-bomber-a-10-and-t-38-jets-to-fly-over-kansas-city-in-s/ Gen. Mike Holmes, the commander of Air Combat Command, visited the service members of Task Force-Southeast at Shaw Air Force Base, South Carolina. Holmes toured several facilities to learn how the task force operates and about its mission to aid in the country’s fight to combat COVID-19. Read more about his visit here: https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2165072/commander-of-air-combat-command-visits-task-force-southeast/ U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa Airmen around the theater have played a variety of roles in supporting the Department of Defense COVD-19 response. Several Airmen, however, have had the unique opportunity to directly assist the Italian air force, the French air force and the United Kingdom’s Royal Air Force in their response efforts. Read more about this exchange here: https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2165482/military-personnel-exchange-program-officers-strengthen-partner-countries-milit/ As of Sunday, April 26, 55 days after the first COVID-19 case was diagnosed in New York, the New York National Guard had over 3,600 troops on duty as part of New York’s response. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368497/new-york-national-guard-sustaining-fight-against-covid-19-after-55-days-duty Nine members of the 167th Airlift Wing have been tasked with the production of a newly designed N95 mask alternative, April 24, 2020, Martinsburg, West Virginia. The Shepherd Mask gets its name from Shepherd University where it was designed. Watch the story here: The Connecticut National Guard received a shipment of personal protective equipment to include 455,500 N95 medical masks, 325,000 surgical masks, 120,000 protective coveralls, and 4,500 ICU coveralls. The gear was shipped to the Connecticut Division of Emergency Management and Homeland Security commodities warehouse, where it is sorted and distributed to first responders and front line health care professionals through a joint operation with the Connecticut National Guard. Watch video of this donation here: The Alabama National Guard's Task Force 31 combats COVID-19 in McCalla as a part of a state wide operation to reduce potential fatal exposures to the coronavirus disease. Watch the video here: Airmen with Task Force Oahu's COVID-19 response team donate blood to be used by service member’s on the frontline, home front and civilian counterparts. The Armed Services Blood Program held a blood drive on April 24, 2020 See photos of their efforts here: Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. Hickam AFB, Hawaii total force integration readiness - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2164469/team-hickam-total-force-integration-readiness/ USAF delivers medical supplies to Ghana - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2165225/usaf-delivers-medical-supplies-to-ghana/ 9,000th F-35 maintainer headed to 419 FW: http://www.419fw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2161157/9000th-f-35-maintainer-headed-to-419-fw/ Dyess AFB, Texas is scheduled to host a virtual collider event April 28 - https://www.dyess.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2163752/dyess-afb-to-host-virtual-collider-event/ A 104th Fighter Wing Pilot takes off amid COVID-19 and with blue skies up ahead - Refueling F-15C Eagles - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2165180/refueling-eagles/ 86th SFS COVID-19 Operations - Intel squadron continues to make mission happen through COVID-19 - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2165653/intel-squadron-continues-to-make-mission-happen-through-covid-19/ Columbus AFB hosts Wings Over Columbus virtual air show on social media - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2165846/columbus-afb-hosts-wings-over-columbus-virtual-air-show-on-social-media/ Air Force Recruiting, 4th Fighter Wing fill void at NASCAR iRacing with innovation - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2165135/air-force-recruiting-4th-fighter-wing-fill-void-at-nascar-iracing-with-innovati/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 26, 2020. CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 347 (+4) 7 115 (+6) 0 Civilian 186 (+6) 10 (+1) 59 0 Dependents 213 (+6) 6 68 (+5) 0 Contractors** 75 (-7) 6 17 (-1) 1 Total 821 29 259 1 *These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since out last update, April 24th. **Corrects previous report. April 24, 2020 Acting Under Secretary of the Air Force Shon Manasco, along with Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright, observed the ongoing, critical operations at multiple training locations here and at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi, April 22. The visits allowed senior leaders the opportunity to see first-hand how Air Education and Training Command has adjusted operations to mitigate and minimize COVID-19 impacts to the basic, technical and flying training pipelines, all of which have been deemed mission essential. Read about their visit here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2163169/usecaf-cmsaf-visit-aetc-to-see-adjusted-training-operations-in-response-to-covi/ The 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale Air Force Base will honor healthcare workers who are on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic by flying B-52 bombers over Shreveport, Bossier City and Monroe. Read more about what to expect at today’s flyover here: https://www.shreveporttimes.com/story/news/local/2020/04/22/barksdale-air-force-base-honor-healthcare-workers-flyover-friday/3008462001/ Air Force Research Laboratory scientists draw on their academic and industrial connections in the science and technology ecosystem to investigate the possibility of using light and radiation to decontaminate and sterilize areas exposed to the coronavirus. The main objective of this effort is to explore whether exposure to electromagnetic (EM) energy can reduce the ability of the airborne coronavirus to infect. If so, the researchers believe they could use this knowledge to better protect military medical personnel working on the front lines of the pandemic. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2163064/afrl-scientists-investigate-can-microwaves-reduce-viability-of-airborne-coronav/ More than 150 additional Air Force Reserve medical specialists were mobilized in the latest Air Force Reserve call-up in support of COVID-19 relief efforts with most Reservists set to assist medical staff in New York, New Jersey and Connecticut. This latest deployment brings the total of Air Force Reservists mobilized in support of COVID-19 relief efforts to more than 770 around the nation. Most volunteered and reported in less than 48 hours to support. Read the more about the additional mobilization here: https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2162357/more-than-770-af-reservists-called-up-providing-medical-support/ The Department of Defense is deploying Counter-Small Unmanned Aerial Systems (C-sUAS) developed by the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Information Directorate to military medical facilities in support of the medical response to COVID-19, including the hospital ships USNS Mercy and USNS Comfort. With the increase in COVID-19 patients, this technology is essential to provide security to ensure that lifesaving operations continue unhindered. Read more about this effort here: https://www.wpafb.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2162849/amid-covid-19-pandemic-afrl-technology-protects-medical-facilities/ Airmen from the 172nd Airlift Wing transported approximately 90 U.S. citizens who were previously unable to return home from South America, on an a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III to Duke Field, Eglin Air Force Base, Florida. Read the story here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368329/bringing-them-home Airmen from the New Mexico Air National Guard set up medical resources to help battle the Covid - 19 pandemic at a hospital building off Gibson Ave near Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, New Mexico. See photos of their efforts here: Airmen and Soldiers with the North Carolina National Guard 42nd Civil Support Team works with local health and emergency officials to conduct drive-thru and walk-up COVID-19 testing for employees of a Chatham County food processing plant on April 23, 2020. This testing helps to ensure the health and safety of the plant employees and the safety of the food supply. See video of their efforts here: Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. B-52 Formal Training Unit keeps pipeline full despite pandemic - https://www.307bw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2163028/b-52-formal-training-unit-keeps-pipeline-full-despite-pandemic/ How Recce Town’s Laboratory professionals are helping in the fight against COVID-19 - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2163670/how-recce-towns-laboratory-professionals-are-helping-in-the-fight-against-covid/ Test squadron uses simulators to support high-priority F-35 test missions - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2163577/test-squadron-uses-simulators-to-support-high-priority-f-35-test-missions/ First female pilot of Niger trains at LRAFB - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2163546/first-female-pilot-of-niger-trains-at-lrafb/ Certain Victory: A-10 pilots persevere through COVID-19 - Rapid Air Mobility expedites fight against COVID-19 - A look into the future: Embedded Health Engagement Teams - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2161847/a-look-into-the-future-embedded-health-engagement-teams/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 23, 2020. CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 343 (+3) 7 109 (+2) 0 Civilian 180 (+2) 9 59 (+3) 0 Dependents 207 (+2) 6 63 (+2) 0 Contractors 82 (+1) 6 18 (+2) 1 Total 812 28 249 1 *Corrects previous report. April 23, 2020 After careful consideration and close coordination with participating nations and units, Pacific Air Forces has cancelled the Red Flag-Alaska 20-2 exercise scheduled for June 11 - 26 at Eielson Air Force Base and Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska. Read the announcement here: https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2160765/pacific-air-forces-cancels-second-iteration-of-red-flag-alaska/ The Air Force Life Cycle Management Center’s, Air Force CBRN Defense Systems Branch partnered with the Joint Program Executive Office for Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear Defense, along with many other organizations across the Department of Defense and academia, to deliver an isolation container prototype to Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, April 21, to test for potential use as a transport module for individuals infected with the COVID-19 virus and other highly infectious diseases. Read more about the isolation container prototype test here: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2160454/aflcmc-led-team-delivers-isolation-container-prototype-for-testing/ Airmen with the 219th RED HORSE Squadron helped with loading and staging supplies at Malmstrom Air Force Base, Montana, to be delivered to the Metra in Billings, Montana. The Metra is being used as an alternative care facility to ensure Montana has medical facilities necessary to meet the governor's phase re-opening criteria for Montana during Operation COVID Shield. See photos of their efforts here: A second wave of Reserve Airmen medical professionals have been mobilized and began their way to Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey to help with the fight against COVID-19 in New York City. There are currently 275 reserve medical professionals mobilized for COVID-19 operations. Read more about the story of the 307 Bomb Wing mobilization here: https://www.307bw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2161307/barksdale-reserve-citizen-airmen-double-down-on-covid-19-response/ See photos from the 911 Airlift Wing mobilization here: Security Forces Airmen with the 104th Fighter Wing and military police Soldiers from the 211th Military Police Battalion, 747th Military Police Company, are working jointly as a Quick Reaction Force in response to COVID-19. Their security teams are working closely with Massachusetts Emergency Management interagency partners to provide assistance. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368197/rain-shine-supporting-together It’s been more than a month since Air University’s degree-granting schools had to abruptly close their doors and move to virtual teaching because of social distancing measures due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As part of this, hundreds of students attending Air War College, Air Command and Staff College and the School of Advanced Air and Space Studies found themselves having to stay at home and connecting to their teachers and each other through laptops, AU IT systems and social media to complete their education. Read more about how Air University has adapted their programs here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2161415/air-university-advanced-education-continues-from-dens-living-rooms/ Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. US, Japan bomber-fighter integration demonstrates dynamic force employment - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2161283/us-japan-bomber-fighter-integration-demonstrates-dynamic-force-employment/ Innovative thinking leads to first local E-4B wash since flood - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2161910/innovative-thinking-leads-to-first-local-e-4b-wash-since-flood/ First Sergeants adapt to COVID-19 pandemic - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2161408/first-sergeants-adapt-to-covid-19-pandemic/ Five minutes to thrive: Reducing telework burnout - https://www.minot.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2161088/five-minutes-to-thrive-reducing-telework-burnout/ Five minutes to thrive: Kids coping with COVID-19 - https://www.minot.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2161071/five-minutes-to-thrive-kids-coping-with-covid-19/ LRAFB C-130s load HIMARS, train with Army - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2161806/lrafb-c-130s-load-himars-train-with-army/ 100 ARW assists transient Airmen - Air Force Reserve recruiters take enlistments online - https://www.419fw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2161016/air-force-reserve-recruiters-take-enlistments-online/ 78th LRS, 94th APS reuniting families - https://www.robins.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2160473/78th-lrs-94th-aps-reuniting-families/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 22, 2020. CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 340 (+3) 7 107 (+4) 0 Civilian 178 (-3)* 9 (-2) 56 (+13) 0 Dependents 205 (+1) 6 61 0 Contractors 81 (-2)* 6 16 (+1) 1 Total 804 28 240 1 *Corrects previous report. April 22, 2020 Secretary of the Air Force Barbara M. Barrett, visited Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio, yesterday to learn more about the countless ways Air Force Materiel Command Airmen are supporting the whole-of-government response to the coronavirus pandemic while continuing to safely execute the command’s critical missions for the warfighter. Read about her visit to AFMC here: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2160301/secretary-barrett-views-afmc-missions-in-action-during-covid-19/ In addition, Barrett visited Air Mobility Command headquarters and the 618th Air Operations Center, AMC’s execution arm for providing America’s global reach, at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, April 21, 2020. The SecAF visited 618th AOC to meet Airmen and see how they continue to accomplish their mission in light of social distancing requirements. See photos of her trip to AMC here: https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2159863/secaf-visits-amc-sees-mission-in-action-during-social-distancing/ While supporting the 37th Training Wing and basic military training personnel, Airmen from the 59th Medical Wing have stepped up to the fight against COVID-19 by beginning testing samples taken from patients suspected of having coronavirus. The in-house testing at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas' Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center’s pathology lab will allow for quicker results, allowing Air Force basic military training to continue while reducing the risk of infection. See the video here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2158575/watch-wilford-hall-begins-in-house-covid-19-testing/ Since Colorado Gov. Jared Polis activated the Colorado National Guard to join the fight against COVID-19 March 10, 2020, space warriors of the 233rd Space Group have been on the front lines, assisting civil authorities and augmenting critical space missions. More than 10% of the Colorado Air National Guard’s space force has stepped in to help in whatever capacity possible to support the community’s efforts to stop the spread of COVID-19. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/2159949/colorado-air-national-guard-space-warriors-fight-covid-19 Airmen from the 7th Component Maintenance Squadron and the 28th Bomb Squadron at Dyess AFB, Texas, worked together to create hand sanitizer. The Airman followed instructions from the World Health Organization on how to make the hand sanitizer, and were able to gather all of the hand sanitizer ingredients from locations on base and in the local community. See photos of their efforts here: https://www.dyess.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2156714/dyess-airmen-create-hand-sanitizer/ Airmen and Soldiers from the Connecticut National Guard set up approximately 200 beds at Kaiser Hall at Central Connecticut State University as potential surge capacity for local hospitals in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368021/guardsman-supports-covid-19-response-her-university See b-roll of their efforts here: More than 230 Airmen and Soldiers with the Washington National Guard are working with Food Lifeline in the South Seattle industrial district processing, packing and preparing food for distribution to more than 300 food banks across Washington state. More than 1.7 million Washington state residents are utilizing food banks due to the COVID-19 pandemic. See b-roll of their efforts here: Airmen and Soldiers with the Delaware National Guard assisted the Food Bank of Delaware in providing meals to nearly 2,300 families during the first day of this week's food drive. See video of their efforts here: Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. Virtual Pacific Air Forces conference focuses on competition, resiliency - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2159486/virtual-conference-focuses-on-competition-resiliency/ 509th Communications Squadron ensures mission success during COVID-19 - https://www.whiteman.af.mil/News/Article/2158061/509th-communications-squadron-ensures-mission-success-during-covid-19/ 919th SOW maintainers: Socially distant, operationally ready- https://www.919sow.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2153911/919th-sow-maintainers-socially-distant-operationally-ready/ 104th Communications Flight effectively supporting the mission remotely - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368038/104th-communications-flight-effectively-supporting-mission-remotely COVID-19 ops: Mission can’t stop, won’t stop at IDRC - Online Spanish classes help air advisors maintain language proficiency during COVID-19 - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2159686/online-spanish-classes-help-air-advisors-maintain-language-proficiency-during-c/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 21, 2020. CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 337 (-1)* 7 (-1) 103 (+5) 0 Civilian 181 (+2) 11 43 (+1) 0 Dependents 204 (+4) 6 61 (+1) 0 Contractors 83 6 15 (+1) 1 Total 805 30 222 1 *Corrects previous report. April, 21, 2020 The Department of the Air Force rapidly executed three contract awards worth $133 million with 3M, Honeywell and O&M Halyard to increase domestic N95 production dedicating long-term mask capacity for national demand. These are the first Department of Defense funded awards utilizing Defense Production Act Title 3 authorities in response to COVID-19. Read more about these contracts here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2157653/air-force-expedites-n95-mask-production-contract-awards/ The seamless integration and life-saving performance of the Air Force Reserve Airmen at Javits Center and embedded in the local New York City hospitals continues through the Task Force-Civil Support and U.S. Northern Command taskings. These Airmen are serving side by side with civilian medical professionals to defeat the COVID-19 virus. Watch the video to see more about their story here: Forty two days into the COVID-19 pandemic response mission, the New York National Guard had 3,600 troops performing missions ranging from answering public inquiry hotlines to assisting New York City in retrieving the remains of those who have died at home. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/367781/ny-national-guard-has-3600-duty-42-days-into-covid-19-response Airmen from the 27 SOW, Cannon AFB, New Mexico, volunteered in helping families with a Pharmacy Point of Delivery System to respond to their local retiree community’s medical needs during this time. Due to the remote, rural nature of Cannon and its surrounding communities, the retiree community depends on base support for their prescription needs. COVID-19 forced the medical group to get creative in order to continue providing support to this important demographic. See photos of their efforts here: Nearly 30 Airmen and Soldiers from the Wisconsin National Guard were sent to the Milwaukee County House of Corrections in Franklin, Wisconsin to establish a mobile COVID-19 testing site to collect specimens from staff and inmates there. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/367786/wisconsin-national-guard-team-sent-milwaukee-county-house-corrections-collect-specimens-covid-19-testing Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. Don’t Let COVID-19 Attack Your Mental Health - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2157812/dont-let-covid-19-attack-your-mental-health/ AFIMSC swift action enables Air, Space Force to meet COVID-19 challenges - https://www.afimsc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2157199/afimsc-swift-action-enables-air-space-force-to-meet-covid-19-challenges/ Squadron redesignations bolster enterprise contracting support - https://www.afimsc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2155694/squadron-redesignations-bolster-enterprise-contracting-support/ Sanitizing after sorties - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2157503/sanitizing-after-sorties/ Team Mildenhall cleaning team: a necessary preparation in COVID-19 fight - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2157507/team-mildenhall-cleaning-team-a-necessary-preparation-in-covid-19-fight/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 20, 2020. CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 338 (+2) 8 98 (+2) 0 Civilian 179 (+7) 11 (-1) 42 (+5) 0 Dependents 200 (+1) 6 60 (+11) 0 Contractors 83 (+5) 6 (+2) 14 (+1) 1 Total 800 31 214 1 April 20, 2020 The Department of the Air Force signed an agreement April 17 with Curative, Inc., to deploy and scale an oral fluid coronavirus test, which recently received a Food and Drug Administration emergency use authorization, across Air Force installations. The Department of the Air Force’s Rapid Capabilities Office, in coordination with the Defense Health Agency and Joint Acquisition Task Force established by the Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition & Sustainment and DHA, is managing the $13 million research and development Blanket Purchase Agreement with the COVID-19 testing startup. Read more about this agreement here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2156392/air-force-signs-agreement-for-oral-fluid-coronavirus-testing-at-air-force-insta/ In response to the growing number of COVID-19 cases on Guam, the 36th Wing, with support from Joint Base Elmendorf-Richardson, Alaska and Hickam Air Force Base, Hawaii is constructing an Expeditionary Medical Support System or EMEDS, on the grounds of U.S. Naval Hospital Guam. The EMEDS facility consists of 11 medical units, and six warehouse units. Read more about the EMEDS facility here: https://www.andersen.af.mil/News/Features/Article/2155701/expeditionary-medical-facility-constructed-at-us-naval-hospital-guam/ Three Ohio Air Force Reservists have deployed to the Lincoln Medical Center Intensive Care Unit in the Bronx, New York to aid in the fight against COVID-19. These medical professionals join the more than 125 Reserve Airmen medical professionals mobilized to New York City over the past month. Read more about their story here: https://www.youngstown.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2154050/910th-medical-squadron-storms-front-line-in-pandemic-fight-in-uniform-and-out/ Members of the Hawaii National guard were transported to neighbor islands on a C-17 Globemaster III to assist with the COVID-19 response. Military transport has been utilized to minimize exposure to disease at airports. See photos of their efforts here: Florida National Guard doctors, nurses and medics joined Florida International University at the Miami Beach Convention Center (MBCC) to conduct refresher training in preparation of potentially receiving patients at the MBCC alternate care facility. The Guard partnered with the university to provide “just in time training” so that providers from different specialties could refresh their knowledge in several areas, including proper personal protective equipment wear, medical procedures and several other necessary tasks that that are specific to the COVID-19 response. Read more about this Joint Task Force Aide partnership: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/367791/state-university-partners-with-joint-task-force-aide-support-covid-19-mission On an average Air Force day, Airmen with the 509th Maintenance Group research and engineering shop find themselves crafting and creating specific parts for multi-billion dollar aircraft to ensure the B-2 Spirit is mission-ready. In the wake of COVID-19, the 509th MXG RE section has expanded its mission set to include reusable face shields. Read more about Whiteman AFB, Missouri’s 3D-printed face shields here: https://www.whiteman.af.mil/News/Article/2154040/509th-maintenance-group-airmen-3d-prints-the-mission-to-success/ Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. Class of 2020 takes graduation in stride during COVID-19 crisis - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2155550/class-of-2020-takes-graduation-in-stride-during-covid-19-crisis/ A day in the life: Nurses - https://www.ellsworth.af.mil/News/Features/Display/Article/2153754/a-day-in-the-life-nurses/ Separated but still together, you are not alone (502 ABW Video) - Public Health Emergency Working Group at forefront of Offutt COVID-19 response - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2154974/public-health-emergency-working-group-at-forefront-of-offutt-covid-19-response/ Purple flags honor military children in an uncertain time - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2155658/purple-flags-honor-military-children-in-an-uncertain-time/ Airmen adjust schedule, adapt techniques to combat COVID-19 - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2156304/airmen-adjust-schedule-adapt-techniques-to-combat-covid-19/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 19, 2020* CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 330 (+2) 8 78 (+5) 0 Civilian 172 (+4) 12 (+1) 37 (+5) 0 Dependents 199 (+8) 6(+1) 49 (+7) 0 Contractors 70 (+6) 4 13 (+4 1 Total 757 30 177 1 *These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on April 17th. April 17, 2020 Tomorrow, The United States Air Force Academy will hold its graduation ceremony for the Class of 2020. The ceremony will be live-streamed beginning at 11 a.m. MDT and available for on-demand viewing after the event.You can find out more about USAFA’s graduation events here: https://www.usafa.edu/about/traditions/graduation/ The Department of Defense has stood up task forces across the U.S. to provide relief to state health care systems fighting COVID-19. Task Force-Southeast, led by Ninth Air Force, is the primary DOD support organization for the Federal Emergency Management Agency response to COVID-19 in FEMA Regions III and IV.Read more about this Task Force here: https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2153794/task-force-southeast-supports-covid-19-fight/ Guam Air National Guard Airmen from the 254th REDHORSE Squadron meet with personnel from Guam Department of Public Works and Guam Power Authority to discuss logistics for a potential alternate care facility at the Guam Memorial Hospital in Tamuning, Guam April 17. See photos of their efforts here: Airmen from the 116th Air Control Wing, Georgia Air National Guard, conduct infection control operations at Southern Pines Nursing Home in Warner Robins, Georgia, April 16. Airmen from the 116 ACW volunteered to assist with sanitizing long-term care facilities around the Georgia during Georgia National Guard COVID-19 response. See video b-roll of their efforts here: Find photos of their efforts here: Airmen and Soldiers with the Colorado National Guard are supporting multiple task forces that have been deployed around the state in various capacities to support state and local officials combat the coronavirus pandemic. Find photos of their efforts here: Staff Sgt. Brandon McKeever, 342nd Recruiting Squadron, B-Flight recruiter, donated boxes of scrubs to Vanderbilt Medical Center, Nashville, Tennessee that could be used on the front lines of the COVID-19 battle. Read more about his donation here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2153472/recruiting-service-airman-helps-people-on-covid-19-front-lines/ With more than 500 Air Force Reservists mobilized for the COVID-19 pandemic, the vast majority of reservists are still working their civilian jobs. For Master Sgt. Andy. A. Jean-Pierre, a KC-10 Extender production supervisor and a traditional reservist stationed at Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, he is currently on the front lines as a veteran New York City Police Department temporary assigned to the Bronx responding to COVID-19 911 calls. Read more about Master Sgt. Jean-Pierre’s role here: https://www.514amw.afrc.af.mil/News/Articles/Article/2137621/coronavirus-demands-service-before-self/ Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. AFMC mission operational under ‘new norm’ - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2153823/afmc-mission-operational-under-new-norm/ Yokota Medical Support Squadron ready for anything - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2153004/yokota-medical-support-squadron-ready-for-anything/ DM, local businesses join forces to protect Airmen - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2153821/dm-local-businesses-join-forces-to-protect-airmen/ 914 ARW announces full operational capability over converting from C-130s to KC-135s - https://www.niagara.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2151103/914-arw-announces-full-operational-capability/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 16, 2020 CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 328 (+11) 8 73 (+14) 0 Civilian 168 (+2) 11 (-1) 32 (+3) 0 Dependents 191 (+7) 5 42 (+5) 0 Contractors 70 (+6) 4 9 (+1) 1 Total 757 28 156 1 April 16, 2020 Air Mobility Liaison Officers from the 621st Mobility Support Operations Squadron are currently assisting U.S. Army North with air movements of field hospital units into coronavirus disease hot spots around the U.S. The AMLOs are rapidly responding to emerging air mobility requirements in New York City, Seattle, Dallas and New Orleans in coordination with Air Mobility Command and the 618th Air Operations Center, as part of the whole-of-government U.S. response to combating COVID-19. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.expeditionarycenter.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2151582/amlos-provide-expertise-in-covid-19-response-aid-field-hospital-unit-movements/ Approximately 100 Air Force Reserve aeromedical evacuation specialists from across the country have been called up to help care for Americans affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. Approximately 60% of America’s capability to provide global patient movement resides in the Air Force Reserve. Read more about their mobilization here: https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/2151951/reserve-aeromedical-evacuation-medics-called-to-the-fight-against-covid-19/ An innovative solution by the Air Force Installation and Mission Support Center’s Detachment 4 at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, is giving commanders from U.S. Air Forces in Europe and Air Forces Africa the ability to accurately assess operational risk and protect lives in the face of the coronavirus pandemic. Geospatial tools developed by the detachment’s GeoBase team are providing commanders with near real-time data detailing the spread of the disease in their areas of responsibility. Read more about this new tool here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2152514/afimsc-geospatial-tools-help-commanders-manage-covid-19-risk/ Airmen and Soldiers with the 44th Civil Support Team (FLNG) prepares for their upcoming mission of providing support to two assisted living facilities in Starke, Florida. They will be testing the residents and staff at both facilities, to help gage the COVID-19 threat. See video of their efforts here: More than 230 Airmen and Soldiers from the Kentucky National Guard have spent the past four days turning a cavernous exhibit hall into an Alternate Care Facility with 288 beds for patients recovering from COVID-19. Read the story about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/367493/ky-guard-stands-up-alternate-care-facility-covid-19-patients On April 14, U.S. Transportation Command directed the use of personally procured or self-made face coverings in all TRANSCOM and Air Mobility Command terminals and on all military or commercially contracted aircraft to mitigate the spread of COVID-19. The directive is in accordance with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommendation and Department of Defense guidance to wear cloth face coverings in public settings where social distancing at a minimum of six feet of separation is difficult to maintain. Read more about this directive here: https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2151374/ustranscom-issues-guidance-for-face-coverings-in-passenger-terminals-aircraft/ Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. 40 days, nights: AMC Commander’s Battle Staff directs round-the-clock support in COVID-19 fight - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2151433/40-days-nights-amc-commanders-battle-staff-directs-round-the-clock-support-in-c/ Tinker finds ways to stay social despite social distancing - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2152674/tinker-finds-ways-to-stay-social-despite-social-distancing/ Maintenance team's face-covering ingenuity helps meet requirement (149 FW, TXANG)- https://www.dvidshub.net/news/367514/maintenance-teams-face-covering-ingenuity-helps-meet-requirement 71st IS conducts virtual Unit Training Assembly to maintain mission readiness - https://445aw.usaf.afpims.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2152373/71st-is-conducts-virtual-uta/ Airmen lead volunteerism during COVID-19 pandemic - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2152161/airmen-lead-volunteerism-during-covid-19-pandemic/ 97 TRS implements distance friendly training for students - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2151166/97-trs-implements-distance-friendly-training-for-students/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 15, 2020. CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 317 (+18) 8 (-1) 59 (+5) 0 Civilian 166 (+8) 12 29 (+2) 0 Dependents 184 (+30) 5 37 (+5) 0 Contractors 64 (+2) 4 8 (+1) 1 Total 731 29 133 1 April 15, 2020 Approximately 800 Airmen and Soldiers are supporting Nevada in the fight against COVID-19 in the largest state activation in Nevada National Guard history. The Nevada Guardsmen most recently called into service will provide medical support, food bank and warehouse logistics, transportation of supplies and set up of alternate care facilities. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/367366/nevada-guard-enters-historic-response-battle-covid-19 Approximately 10 Reserve Airmen from the 315th Aeromedical Evacuation Squadron were mobilized this week in support of COVID-19 relief efforts. The Airmen will participate in the COVID-19 Aeromedical Evacuation hub that has been established at Joint Base Charleston and will deploy around the globe as needed. Read more about their mobilization here: https://www.315aw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2148950/charleston-mobilizes-aeromedical-evacuation-airmen-for-covid-19-response/ Airmen assigned to the 8th Operations Support Squadron aircrew flight equipment section are taking the fight to the coronavirus, as they embrace innovation and their technical training to manufacture cloth masks for the more than 2,500 service members assigned to Kunsan Air Base. The mask materials available to the 8th OSS AFE flight are limited to what the base exchange provides, which is limited to bedding, including bedsheets and fleece and wool blankets. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.kunsan.af.mil/News/Article/2148589/8th-oss-afe-combats-covid-19/ The Connecticut National Guard assisted the Connecticut Department of Public Health in distributing masks, gloves, and face shields to local residential care homes, nursing homes, and long-term care facilities in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. See photos of their efforts here: The National Museum of the United States Air Force continues to share the Air Force story with online visitors from around the world, while being closed as a public health precaution in relation to COVID-19 (Coronavirus). The museum has expanded its digital museum experience through a virtual tour, that includes a 360-degree gallery tours, educational content, virtual reality and STEM applications, and social media connections. Read more about their virtual tour and how to link to it here: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2149988/national-museum-of-the-us-air-force-expands-virtual-experience/ Essential missions throughout the Air Force still continue even during this pandemic. Below are some links to stories on how these units have adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19. Andersen AFB Remains Ready - EMEDS maintains readiness posture - https://www.airforcemedicine.af.mil/News/Display/Article/2149632/emeds-maintains-readiness-posture/ Counselors at Travis AFB provide services online during COVID-19 outbreak - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2150671/counselors-provide-services-online-during-covid-19-outbreak/ 52nd LRS POL stay mission ready - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2150308/52nd-lrs-pol-stay-mission-ready/ Command Surgeon team leading AFGSC’s fight against COVID-19 - https://www.afgsc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2149150/command-surgeon-team-leading-afgscs-fight-against-covid-19/ Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 14, 2020. CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS Military 299 (+5) 9 54 (+3) 0 Civilian 158 (+5) 12 (+1) 27 (+11) 0 Dependents 154 (+4) 5 32 0 Contractors 62 4 7 1 Total 673 30 120 1 April 14, 2020 The Air Force Reserve celebrates its 72nd birthday today. Lt. Gen. Richard Scobee in a video message said the reserve has been a part of every military operation since its beginning, supported humanitarian and defense for civil authorities missions and it currently on the frontlines battling the COVID-19 pandemic. Regardless of the mission Air Force Reserve Airmen have answered the nations call and will continue for decades to come. You can watch the video here: In collaboration with the COVID-19 National Response Team, AFVentures has created an industry portal to assess and respond to challenges presented by the pandemic. This initiative was created as part of the Department of the Air Force’s Acquisition COVID-19 Taskforce, or ACT, as a one-stop shop for defense industry, commercial companies and academia to share creative ideas with federal agencies to combat the virus. Read more about this initiative here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2148944/air-force-dod-rallies-industry-academia-service-members-to-combat-covid-19/ Air Force doctors Maj. Evan Fisher, chief of Nephrology, and Maj. Matthew Koroscil, a Pulmonary and Critical Care specialist from the 88th Medical Group at the Wright-Patterson Medical Center, are leading the way in coordination with the Dayton medical community on a new drug protocol for COVID-19 patients. Their work on the project allowed Premier Health’s Miami Valley Hospital to potentially lead the country in the administration of the Mayo Clinic-approved plasma protocol. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2148234/wright-patterson-afb-physicians-coordinate-new-protocol-for-covid-19-patients/ The Air Force is promoting a campaign to recognize those on the front lines battling the COVID-19 pandemic. Air Force Salutes is a way Airmen can honor someone in their community who doesn’t wear the Air Force uniform but still embodies the Air Force core value of service before self. Read more about this campaign effort here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2148925/air-force-salutes-campaign-to-honor-those-working-the-front-lines/ In an effort to mitigate the effects of the COVID-19 outbreak and to continue executing rapid global mobility operations, the U.S. Air Force’s Air Mobility Command sent multiple airframes to participate in particle and airflow testing at Nebraska Air National Guard air base April 4-11, 2020. Read more about this testing here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/367325/covid-response-dod-academia-partner-conduct-aircraft-airflow-testing-nebraska Airmen and Soldiers with the West Virginia National Guard’s Task Force Chemical, Biological, Radiological and Nuclear (CBRN) Response Enterprise (CRE) (TF-CRE) test students and faculty from West Virginia University for COVID-19. You can find imagery of here: