News

United States Air Force

Air Force update for COVID-19

Published June 15, 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:

June 15, 2020

USAF TOTAL STATS*
	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	700 (+49)	8 (+1)	301 (+5)	0
Civilian	257 (+8)	11	136	1
Dependents	308 (+11)	7	150 (+2)	1
Contractors	135 (+5)	7	49	2
Total	1,400	32	636	4

*These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on June 12th.

June 12, 2020
NOTE: This product will end on June 12th. In place, you’ll be able to find COVID numbers on https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2184415/air-force-update-for-covid-19/. The COVID numbers will be updated every Monday, starting June 15th.

The Chief of Staff of the Air Force, Gen. David L. Goldfein, visited the 552nd Air Control Wing and the 137th Special Operations Wing on June 8 to gain a better understanding of financial and mission impacts due to COVID-19.

Read more about his visit to the 552nd Air Control Wing here: https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2214931/chief-of-staff-of-the-air-force-visits-552nd-acw/

Read more about his visit to the 137^th Special Operations Wing here: https://www.afsoc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2216800/csaf-gen-david-l-goldfein-visits-137th-special-operations-wing/

The Air Force Special Tactics community is known for looking at complex problems and finding new ways to accomplish the mission; when COVID-19 became a global pandemic, that was no exception. Medical and Preservation of the Force and Family team members of the 24th Special Operations Wing, headquartered at Hurlburt Field, Florida, teamed up with the Air Force Research Lab to develop a way to monitor ST operators’ health status during the pandemic straight from their smartphones.

Over 22.7 million meals delivered, 311,321 COVID-19 tests collected, 270,686 phone calls answered and 25,554 pallets of medical supplies warehoused and 6,394 distributed. Those are some of the numbers that describe the New York National Guard response to the COVID-19 crisis from March to June of 2020. Along the way, troops established four alternate care facilities - including one at the Jacob Javits Convention Center which treated 1,095 COVID-19 patients - and helped the Medical Examiner of New York City conduct the dignified recovery of 2,882 New Yorkers who died during the crisis. What started as the deployment of several hundred troops to a “containment zone” placed around a outbreak in New Rochelle on March 10, grew to over 3,620 troops on duty by May.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/371878/ny-responds-coronavirus-with-3620-troops

Ohio National Guard medical personnel recently served those Ohioans who have served their country, when they conducted COVID-19 sampling at the Ohio Veterans Home’s facility in the southern part of the state. In support of the Ohio Department of Veterans Services, the Ohio National Guard provided personal protective equipment and about 10 medical personnel — coming from Company C, 237th Support Battalion and the 178th Wing, both located in Springfield, and the 121st Air Refueling Wing in Columbus. During a one-day mission, Guard members collected COVID-19 test samples from more than 200 staff members and approximately 140 resident veterans at the Georgetown facility.

Throughout the COVID-19 response, Indiana National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have been serving the Hoosier citizens. Despite rigorous missions across the state, these Guardsmen continued to maintain combat readiness by practicing combat-related medical care. In between assisting the community through various missions, Soldiers and Airmen completed training on combat-related care at the Medical Simulation Training Center, located in Camp Atterbury, Indiana. The advanced training facility is one of 22 MSTC sites that exist internationally.

Two U.S. Air National Guard Airmen with the South Carolina Air National Guard (SCANG) have been working on the leading edge of South Carolina’s medical response to the COVID-19 pandemic. U.S. Air Force Master Sgt. Jennifer Wagner and U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Jennifer Heller, 169th Medical Group aerospace medical technicians, have been on active duty orders since early May working across the state to augment local authorities’ medical response to COVID-19.

Three brothers, Col Hans Otto, Command, 445th Aerospace Medical Squadron, Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Ohio, Cmdr. Joseph Otto, Health and Human Services, and Gustav Otto, Defense Intelligence Agency, explain how they came together to support U.S. Northern Command's COVID-19 operations in support of FEMA.

See video of their efforts here:

Bunch reflects on first year in command, outlines AFMC future - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2218087/bunch-reflects-on-first-year-in-command-outlines-afmc-future/

National Museum of the U.S. Air Force to reopen July 1 - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2217099/national-museum-of-the-us-air-force-to-reopen-july-1/

U.S., coalition continue to work together to defeat ISIS - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2216065/us-coalition-continue-to-work-together-to-defeat-isis/

US Air Force B-1s, JASDF fighters complete several training missions in one month - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2215661/us-air-force-b-1s-jasdf-fighters-complete-several-training-missions-in-one-month/

Flight prepares future Airmen for Basic Military Training - https://www.403wg.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2216009/flight-prepares-future-airmen-for-basic-military-training/

389th FS returns from extended deployment - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2216243/389th-fs-returns-from-extended-deployment/

Wildfire training turns to trial - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2214963/wildfire-training-turns-to-trial/

Hidden heroes out of sight: AFE equips USAFWS - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2214995/hidden-heroes-out-of-sight-afe-equips-usafws/

New C-17 hangar open for business - https://www.pittsburgh.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2206200/new-c-17-hangar-open-for-business/

SUPT class 20-16 set to graduate - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2217389/supt-class-20-16-set-to-graduate/

Deter, Detect and Defeat: MWD training safeguards TLR - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2215986/deter-detect-and-defeat-mwd-training-safeguards-tlr/

52nd LRS gear up in COVID-19 response – https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2217959/52nd-lrs-gear-up-in-covid-19-response/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., June 11, 2020.

USAF TOTAL STATS*
	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	651 (+17)	7	296 (+1)	0
Civilian	249 (+3)	11 (+1)	136	1
Dependents	297 (+4)	7 (+1)	148 (+2)	1
Contractors	130 (+3)	7 (+1)	49	2
Total	1,327	32	629	4

*These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on June 10th.

June 10, 2020
NOTE: This product will end on June 12th. In place, you’ll be able to find COVID numbers on https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2184415/air-force-update-for-covid-19/. The COVID numbers will be updated every Monday, starting June 15th.

In an effort to minimize the spread of COVID-19 and prioritize the health and safety of participants, Air Force officials have cancelled in-person running of the 2020 Air Force Marathon.

Read the announcement here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2213282/air-force-cancels-2020-marathon-offers-virtual-option/

Nine Reserve Citizen Airmen from the 307th Medical Squadron returned to Barksdale Air Force Base, Louisiana, June 5 after aiding New York in its battle against the COVID-19 pandemic since early April. Throughout the deployment, Airmen worked 12-hour shifts and, in some hospitals, faced patient loads well beyond normal capacity.

More than 400 Ohio National Guard members were activated to provide humanitarian missions in support of COVID-19 relief efforts, continuing the Ohio National Guard’s long history of supporting humanitarian efforts throughout Ohio and the nation.

See photos of their efforts here:

Members of the Delaware National Guard supported the saliva-based testing of 100 people at the fire station location.

See photos of their efforts here:

The 125th Air Expeditionary Squadron (FLANG) provides logistical and traffic support for a COVID19 Testing site located at Eastern Florida State College.

See photos of their efforts here:

Finances made easy with new online portal - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209726/finances-made-easy-with-new-online-portal/

Misawa, Yokota AB collaborate despite COVID-19 - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2213799/misawa-yokota-collaborate-despite-covid-19/

US Airmen in Australia keep an ear to the ground - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2213826/us-airmen-in-australia-keep-an-ear-to-the-ground/

Little Rock AFB, Dyess demonstrate agile combat airlift during JFE exercise - https://www.dyess.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2213662/lrafb-dyess-demonstrate-agile-combat-airlift-during-jfe-exercise/

501 Combat Support Wing Legal Office ensures legal readiness for deployers - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2212371/501-csw-legal-office-ensures-legal-readiness-for-deployers/

62nd Air Wing helps test improvements to combat airlift capabilities - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2214107/62nd-aw-helps-test-improvements-to-combat-airlift-capabilities/

Child Development Center at Laughlin AFB takes measures to prevent COVID-19 - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2213706/child-development-center-at-laughlin-afb-takes-measures-to-prevent-covid-19/

Altus AFB innovation team design shared across service - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2213608/altus-innovation-team-design-shared-across-service/

Goodfellow AFB Airmen Leadership School moving to virtual - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2213641/goodfellow-afb-airmen-leadership-school-moving-to-virtual/

Air Force Research Laboratory brings the “heat” to COVID-19 - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2212603/afrl-brings-the-heat-to-covid-19/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., June 9, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	634 (+30)	7	295 (+13)	0
Civilian	246 (+2)	10 (+1)	136 (+5)	1
Dependents	293 (+5)	6	146 (+2)	1
Contractors**	127 (+1)	6 (-1)	49	2
Total	1,300	28	626	4

*These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on June 8th.

June 8, 2020
The Louisiana National Guard is preparing for emergency operations ahead of Tropical Storm Cristobal, June 7, while continuing its COVID-19 response missions. Louisiana’s Guardsmen are trained, remain ready and fully equipped to stand up at any moment to protect lives and property, maintain communications, and ensure the continuity of operations and government.

German air force medical professionals listen to a briefing from an Airmen assigned to 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing during a COVID-19 Transport Isolation System tour at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, June 4. The German air force’s medical professionals came to the 521st AMOW facilities to learn more about the U.S. Air Force’s TIS use and patient operations. The TIS is an infectious disease containment unit designed to minimize contamination risk to aircrew and medical attendants, while allowing in-flight medical care for patients afflicted by a disease like COVID-19.

See photos of this meeting here:

Airmen from the 133rd Medical Group, provide instructions on how to administer the COVID-19 test in St. Paul, Minnesota, June 4. The Minnesota National Guard, to include the 133rd Airlift Wing, were mobilized in support of Minnesota’s Executive Order 20-64 and performed duties that provided patrols, manned control points, and assisted firefighters in accomplishing their lifesaving mission by providing security throughout Minneapolis, Saint Paul, and its surrounding communities.

See photos of their efforts here:

For the last few months, thousands of medical personnel from Air Force Reserve Command have been working alongside their military and civilian counterparts in the U.S. Army North-led Joint Forces Land Component Command, or JFLCC, which has been assisting state and local governments across the continental United States in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Four nurses who mobilized from Dobbins Air Reserve Base returned to the base, May 28, arriving via a Dobbins ARB C-130H3 Hercules.

D-Day commemoration flight - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2211114/d-day-commemoration-flight/

Dyess Airmen revolutionize C-130 maintenance - https://www.dyess.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2210504/dyess-airmen-revolutionize-c-130-maintenance/

185th Chaplains adapt to COVID-19 - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/371623/185th-chaplains-adapt-covid-19

First enlisted reservist graduates from new Weapons School course - https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/2209791/first-enlisted-reservist-graduates-from-new-weapons-school-course/

39th FTS T-6 team honors 'beloved maintainer' upon retirement - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2211014/39th-fts-t-6-team-honors-beloved-maintainer-upon-retirement/

52nd MXG trains 480th FS pilots on refueling, munitions arming, disarming F-16s - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2211134/52nd-mxg-trains-480th-fs-pilots-on-refueling-munitions-arming-disarming-f-16s/

35th Logistics Readiness, Force Support Squadrons join forces to keep post office ops moving - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209920/35th-logistics-readiness-force-support-squadrons-join-forces-to-keep-post-offic/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., June 7, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	604 (+33)	7	282	0
Civilian	244 (+6)	9 (+1)	131 (+3)	1
Dependents	288 (+9)	6	144	1
Contractors**	216 (-1)	7	49 (-1)	2
Total	1,262	28	606	4

*These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on June 5th.
**Corrects previous reports

June 4, 2020
NOTE: Starting June 1, we will only send out this update on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday.

International Health Specialists' experience in global health engagements proved important to support the Department of Defense’s relief efforts to state health care systems fighting COVID-19. The Ninth Air Force-led Task Force-Southeast provided defense support of civil authorities within Federal Emergency Management Agency, or FEMA, regions III and IV. The task force’s largest mission was delivering support to a COVID-19 alternate care site set up at Temple University in Philadelphia that served as an overflow medical facility.

The Michigan National Guard visited three long-term care facilities on May 28, including Riveridge Rehabilitation and Healthcare Center, West Woods of Bridgman, and Pine Ridge Rehabilitation and Nursing Center, Michigan to assist with continued COVID-19 testing in Berrien County. This initiative is part of the Michigan National Guard’s collaborative effort with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and the State Emergency Operations Center to assist with voluntary COVID-19 testing for staff and residents at the request of long term care facilities across Michigan.

Reserve Airmen from the 433rd Airlift Wing’s Medical Group returned from a 54-day deployment to the Queens Hospital Center in the Jamaica Hills area of New York City to help assist medical staff at the hospital with the overwhelming number of COVID-19 infected patients.

For Chaplain (Capt.) Michael Zimmer, traditional religious services are out the window for Nebraska National Guard Soldiers and Airmen activated and spread throughout the whole state supporting COVID-19 response efforts. In April, Zimmer was activated as the chaplain for the Joint Task Force for Nebraska National Guard COVID-19 mission.

Aviano Air Base Elephant Walk - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209031/aviano-elephant-walk/

The Future of Enlisted Professional Military Education - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2209081/the-future-of-enlisted-professional-military-education/

The 97th Air Mobility Wing conducts large formation exercise - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209583/mighty-97th-conducts-large-formation-exercise/

Aerial refueling: Backbone of long-range Bomber Task Force missions - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209569/aerial-refueling-backbone-of-long-range-bomber-task-force-missions/

The 62nd AS protects training pipeline with airlift assistance - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209562/62nd-as-protects-training-pipeline-with-airlift-assistance/

AFWERX to host JADC2 demo event for government users, tech scouts - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209540/afwerx-to-host-jadc2-demo-event-for-government-users-tech-scouts/

Whiteman AFB flight surgeon keeps 20th Attack Squadron mission ready through COVID-19 - https://www.whiteman.af.mil/News/Article/2207789/team-whiteman-flight-surgeon-keeps-20th-attack-squadron-mission-ready-through-c/

Mountaineer ChalleNGe Academy support ongoing despite COVID-19 - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/371469/mountaineer-challenge-academy-support-ongoing-despite-covid-19

A New Era Takes Flight - https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/2208533/a-new-era-takes-flight/

MCA expands skills, increases lethality - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209268/mca-expands-skills-increases-lethality/

EDIS helping to release wiggles and giggles during COVID-19 - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209036/edis-helping-to-release-wiggles-and-giggles-during-covid-19/

The 309th SMXG adapts to change and continues support - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209243/309th-smxg-adapts-to-change-and-continues-support/

The 448th Supply Chain Management Wing meets challenges of COVID-19 - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2209246/448th-supply-chain-management-wing-meets-challenges-of-covid-19/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., June 4, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	571 (+2)	7	282 (+2)	0
Civilian	238 (+4)	8	128 (+1)	1
Dependents	279 (+6)	6	144 (+2)	1
Contractors	127	7	49 (+3)	2
Total	1,215	28	603	4

*These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on June 3rd.

June 3, 2020
NOTE: Starting June 1, we will only send out this update on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

California National Guard service members previously conducting COVID-19 testing in Indio, California, answered the call from nearby Imperial County during a surge of COVID-19 patients. The Cal Guard’s aid allowed for increased bed capacity and patient care at Pioneer Memorial Hospital in Brawley. Chris Herring, the county’s emergency medical services manager, fielded the request for medical personnel support through the state and received 19 Airmen from the California Air National Guard’s 144th Medical Detachment, 146th Medical Group and 163d Medical Group consisting of five registered nurses and 14 medics.

Since beginning operations in support of the state’s COVID-19 response 81 days ago, Soldiers and Airmen with the West Virginia National Guard has completed 1,326 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, 561 members of the WVNG are on duty serving the citizens of the State of West Virginia. Soldiers and Airman have been supporting mobile testing labs, testing lanes, and providing PPE training for various businesses, state agencies and first responders.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/371302/wva-guard-update-covid-19-response

A total of 25 specimen collection teams from the Wisconsin National Guard continue to operate across Wisconsin supporting local health departments and the Wisconsin Department of Health Services effort to increase the state’s COVID-19 testing capacity. The teams, comprised of nearly 600 Soldiers and Airmen in total, established mobile testing sites at locations ranging from correctional facilities and health clinics, to private businesses, and community-based testing sites.

Two Airmen from the 621st Contingency Response Wing have been supporting the Department of Defense’s effort to combat COVID-19 since March 2020. Lt. Col. Curt Haase and Master Sgt. John Huck from Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, have been embedded with the 64th Air Expeditionary Group to help bring Air Force Reservists into the fight against the pandemic.

RPA Training Next transforming pipeline to competency-based construct - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2200393/rpa-training-next-transforming-pipeline-to-competency-based-construct/

B-1B bombers integrate with U.S., Turkish tankers over Black Sea - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2204849/b-1b-bombers-integrate-with-us-turkish-tankers-over-black-sea/

Global Hawks return to Yokota Air Base to provide continuous support to joint partners, allies - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2203962/global-hawks-return-to-yokota-to-provide-continuous-support-to-joint-partners-a/

Public Health on the front lines of the invisible enemy - https://www.barksdale.af.mil/News/Article/2204893/public-health-on-the-front-lines-of-the-invisible-enemy/

Packing Resiliency: 124th FW Airmen Deploy Amidst COVID-19 - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/371223/packing-resiliency-124th-fw-airmen-deploy-amidst-covid-19

Engineers' ICE protect warfighters from intense summer heat - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2204710/engineers-ice-protect-warfighters-from-intense-summer-heat/

Little Rock AFB's 62nd AS protects training pipeline with airlift assistance - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2205475/little-rock-afbs-62nd-as-protects-training-pipeline-with-airlift-assistance/

Sheppard NCOA leverages agile resources in fight against COVID-19 - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2204598/sheppard-ncoa-leverages-agile-resources-in-fight-against-covid-19/

COVID-19 Telework Operations Create New Opportunities for 412 TW Teams - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2206590/covid-19-telework-operations-create-new-opportunities-for-412-tw-teams/

The 309th Missile Maintenance Group keeps 'big stick' on alert through the pandemic - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2206575/309th-missile-maintenance-group-keeps-big-stick-on-alert-through-the-pandemic/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., June 2, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	549 (+23)	7	280 (+8)	0
Civilian	234 (+5)	8	127 (+8)	1
Dependents	273 (+4)	6	142 (+9)	1
Contractors	127 (+3)	7	46 (+5)	2
Total	1,183	28	595	4

*These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on June 1st.

June 1, 2020
NOTE: Starting June 1, we will only send out this update on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

Secretary of the Air Force Barbara Barrett toured Cannon AFB and visited several units May 20. The day-long visit gave Barrett the chance to see first-hand the readiness capabilities of the 27th Special Operations Wing.

Amidst COVID-19, Gen. Stephen W. “Seve” Wilson, vice chief of staff of the Air Force, visited Goodfellow AFB, May 29. During his visit, Wilson saw how Goodfellow AFB is fighting and adapting through COVID-19 to carry out the mission of training and inspiring the future force.

Medical personnel from the 90th Medical Group tested more than 250 troops from across the 90th Missile Wing, May 20 on F. E. Warren Air Force Base, Wyoming. The personnel, composed of maintainers, operators, facility managers and missile chefs, were directed to receive testing to ensure minimization of COVID-19 infections to personnel traveling to the missile field.

The Michigan National Guard conducted drive-thru and walk-up testing for local residents of Calhoun County, Michigan at the Marshall Opportunity High School, Albion, Michigan, May 30. The Michigan National Guard has more than 60 trained testing teams ready to assist, of which 21 are currently assigned to support the community testing mission. These three-member teams include a certified medic to conduct the testing and two members to assist with paperwork, logistics, and non-medical tasks.

See more of their efforts here:

More than two months after Ohio Gov. Mike DeWine activated members of the Ohio National Guard to assist with food distribution at food banks statewide, the need in the community for the Ohio National Guard’s assistance is still prevalent. As the state slowly begins to reopen and life returns to a new normal, Ohio National Guard members across the state continue to work hard in supporting their local community members through food packaging and distribution.

North Carolina National Guard Soldiers and Airmen assigned to the 42nd Civil Support Team supported a drive-thru COVID-19 test site at Deep River Elementary School in Sanford, North Carolina, May 27-28. The Guardsmen collected about 500 samples in two days. This is the second time they have supported a COVID-19 test site; the first tested employees at a Chatham county chicken processing plant on April 23.

The Georgia National Guard deployed more than 2,600 Soldiers and Airmen in support of military operations and training missions around the world in 2019. Now in 2020, many of these service members serve a different kind of mission– to fight the COVID-19 virus.

Senior Airman Ledarius Carpenter is a Mississippi National Guardsman traveling around the state helping to facilitate community-based COVID-19 testing sites with his team from the 186th Air Refueling Wing of Meridian.

See more of his efforts here:

Joint Base Charleston hosts rescue team ahead of NASA human space flight mission - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2203514/joint-base-charleston-hosts-rescue-team-ahead-of-nasa-human-space-flight-mission/

AFRL centrifuge part of NASA’s history-making launch - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2203373/afrl-centrifuge-part-of-nasas-history-making-launch/

B-1 Lancers integrate with Ukraine aircraft for first time - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2203357/b-1s-integrate-with-ukraine-aircraft-for-first-time/

Hill AFB F-35 fighter wing members arrive at ADAB - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2203615/hill-afb-f-35-fighter-wing-members-arrive-at-adab/

The 28th CONS trains for future deployments - https://www.ellsworth.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2192898/28th-cons-trains-for-future-deployments/

USAF Weapons School continues to innovate air superiority - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2203574/usaf-weapons-school-continues-to-innovate-air-superiority/

Little Rrock AFB surges airlift operations in the face of COVID-19 constraints - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2201744/lrafb-surges-airlift-operations-in-the-face-of-covid-19-constraints/

AFLCMC division to launch new feedback app - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2203362/aflcmc-division-to-launch-new-feedback-app/

F-22 CTF implements EAFB’s first operational F-22 rapid crew swap to overcome COVID-19 limitations - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2203428/f-22-ctf-implements-eafbs-first-operational-f-22-rapid-crew-swap-to-overcome-co/

Air Force Civil Engineer Center consolidates program to maximize lethality, readiness - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2203652/air-force-civil-engineer-center-consolidates-program-to-maximize-lethality-read/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 31, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	526 (+22)	7	272 (+5)	0
Civilian	229 (+8)	8 (+2)	119 (+2)	1
Dependents	269 (+8)	6	133 (+4)	1
Contractors	124 (+4)	7	41 (+1)	2
Total	1,148	28	565	4

May 29, 2020
NOTE: Starting June 1^st, we will only send out this update on Monday, Wednesday, and Friday

Since its formation on March 27, 2020, the U.S. Transportation Command’s Repatriation Coordination Cell organized the stateside return of more than 3,900 Americans stranded abroad due to tightened COVID-19 travel limitations imposed by numerous countries. Supporting the Department of State’s efforts to bring American citizens home as the pandemic spread across the globe, the USTRANSCOM unit, which stood down in mid-May, contracted 14 separate commercial charter airlift missions, transporting many thousands back to the U.S. from five different African and Asian nations.

Eighty-two days into the COVID-19 pandemic response mission, New York National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have helped test 285,659 New Yorkers for COVID-19, delivered 16,643,740 meals, and assembled 1,399,580 COVID-19 test kits. State officials are currently focused on “reopening” more businesses and other activities on a regional basis across New York.

A half of dozen Reserve Citizen Airmen from the 315th Aerospace Medicine Squadron from Joint Base Charleston, S.C., returned to a heartfelt “welcome home” from family and fellow team members Thursday, after responding to the call for medical personnel in New York City to fight the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Members of the Oklahoma Army and Air National Guard are supporting the Oklahoma State Department of Health in fulfilling Oklahoma Governor Kevin Stitt’s continued efforts to slow the spread of COVID-19 throughout the State. In this latest push, Oklahoma Guardsmen, like so many other Guardsmen throughout the U.S., help with contact tracing, which is the process of tracing and monitoring the contacts of infected people within the State, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

See video here:

Members of the Iowa Air and Army National Guard, working with the Iowa Department of Public Health helped set up a new COVID-19 test site this week in the Northwest Iowa hamlet of Sioux Center. The Sioux Center site is one of a number of “TestIowa” COVID-19 test sites to be in operation since mid-April. A key concern for the TestIowa initiative includes communities that have meat processing plants in the state whose economy is largely dependent on agriculture or Ag related business.

See video here:

Michigan National Guard’s Civil Support Team (CST) has faced a trilogy of events in the recent weeks as they expanded their resources to respond to simultaneous mission demands. From COVID-19, to floods, to a presidential visit, the 51st Civil Support Team has answered the state’s call. The 22-person team, made up of Michigan Army and Air National Guard members, provide initial assessments of incidents and assist the state emergency management office, the state’s Joint Forces Headquarters, and other key officials including representatives of federal agencies when requested.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370926/michigan-cst-responds-floods-potus-visit-and-covid-19

Fresh off three recent deployment cycles, the 150th Security Forces Squadron has been busy responding to the New Mexico National Guard Joint Task Force COVID-19 response effort.

VCSAF and former 14th FTW commander congratulate SUPT Class 20-14/15 graduates - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2200597/vcsaf-and-former-14th-ftw-commander-congratulate-supt-class-20-1415-graduates/

Team Hickam supports NASA’s Human Space Flight program - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2200719/team-hickam-supports-nasas-human-space-flight-program/

Air Force Global Strike Command’s innovation hub ‘STRIKEWERX’ now open for business - https://www.afgsc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2200536/air-force-global-strike-commands-innovation-hub-strikewerx-now-open-for-business/

Military Medical Experts Explore Psychological Impacts of COVID-19 - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2201490/military-medical-experts-explore-psychological-impacts-of-covid-19/

Puerto Rico Airmen conduct a virtual drill during COVID-19 pandemic - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370921/puerto-rico-airmen-conduct-virtual-drill-during-covid-19-pandemic

Finding new ways to recruit amid the COVID-19 pandemic - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370948/finding-new-ways-recruit-amid-covid-19-pandemic

Warhorses gallop steadfast through COVID-19 - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2201360/warhorses-gallop-steadfast-through-covid-19/

Intel analysis cells continue worldwide support amid COVID-19 - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2201463/intel-analysis-cells-continue-worldwide-support-amid-covid-19/

Delivering pilots despite global pandemic, face masks - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2200893/delivering-pilots-despite-global-pandemic-face-masks/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 28, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	504(+17)	7	267 (+20)	0
Civilian	221 (+3)	6	117 (-1)*	1
Dependents	261 (+1)	6	129	1
Contractors	120 (+4)	7	40 (+1)	2
Total	1,106	26	553	4

*Corrects previous reports

May 28, 2020
As the officer in charge of 15 Washington National Guardsmen, 2nd Lt. Megan E. Zurliene’s natural enthusiasm is well suited for the demands of the COVID-19 testing site on the Quinault Reservation. Her team consisting of both Airmen and Soldiers, are testing more than 100 members per day, working long hours in HAZMAT suits, all the while safeguarding those they test, as well as themselves. With a goal of testing more than 2,000 people, Zurliene's team is running a walk-up testing site, which focused on testing the tribe’s first responders and casino staff first, but plans to test every member of the tribe.

More than 30 Alaska National Guard Soldiers and Airmen, Alaska State Defense Force Soldiers, and other DMVA personnel volunteered to give blood at the National Guard Armory in coordination with the Blood Bank of Alaska. Donating blood products is essential to community health and the need for blood, plasma, and platelets is constant as part of our nation’s critical infrastructure, according to the American Red Cross. Blood drives like this can maintain and secure adequate supplies for blood transfusions for patients throughout Alaska.

Late March 2020 was a time not to know. Members of the Texas Military Department activated in support of the COVID-19 response mission faced uncertainty with the daily awareness that we didn’t know how long the pandemic would continue. When do we go home, to our families, to our jobs, to our lives? And yet, the morale was high. Soldiers, Airmen and Texas State Guardsmen who were supporting Texans by serving at food banks, distributing medical supplies and disinfecting nursing homes smiled with calm determination. They moved with enthusiasm and purpose as if life were both enjoyable and meaningful as they got their jobs done.

US, Japan bomber-fighter integration demonstrates commitment, enhances readiness - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2199435/us-japan-bomber-fighter-integration-demonstrates-commitment-enhances-readiness/

COVID-19 Centrifuge Training B-Roll -

The 361st TRS swings into action to limit potential spread of COVID-19 - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2200044/361st-trs-swings-into-action-to-limit-potential-spread-of-covid-19/

Spangdahlem AB F-16s participate in large force exercise - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2199927/spangdahlem-ab-f-16s-participate-in-large-force-exercise/

Airmen learn Tactical Combat Casualty Care - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2199146/airmen-learn-tactical-combat-casualty-care/

Mental Health Awareness Month - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2200053/mental-health-awareness-month/

The 309th AMXG credits wingman culture as key to success during pandemic - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2200155/309th-amxg-credits-wingman-culture-as-key-to-success-during-pandemic/

AFIMSC analytics tool expands to help leaders prioritize investments -https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2200124/afimsc-analytics-tool-expands-to-help-leaders-prioritize-investments/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 27, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	487(+4)	7 (+1)	247 (+2)	0
Civilian	218 (+1)	6	118	1
Dependents	260	6	129	1
Contractors	116 (+3)	7	39	2
Total	1,081	26	533	4

May 27, 2020
Airmen from the Maryland Air National Guard are playing an integral role in the state's response to the COVID-19 pandemic. Working alongside civil authorities and partners in the community, they have performed many successful missions throughout Maryland but none of that would be possible without the support of personnel back on base doing the behind the scenes work. Airmen from the 175th Logistics Readiness Squadron have processed over 40 million pieces of medical personal protective equipment and supplies, as well as distributing it across the state. Medical personnel from the 175th Medical Group have supported over 100 skilled-nursing facility visits and helped distribute thousands of test kits with their Army counterparts and other government agencies.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370797/mission-support-group-plays-pivotal-role-wings-response-covid-19

Michigan Air and Army Guard service members partnered with the Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, Muskegon County, and Muskegon Heights to provide no-cost COVID-19 testing to residents of Muskegon County, May 23, 2020. As of May 23, more than 950 Michigan Guard members are actively supporting the state's COVID-19 response which includes food distribution, screening operations, and testing support.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370739/michigan-national-guard-suppports-successful-free-covid-19-testing-muskegon-heights-residents

The Michigan National Guard has joined a collaborative effort with the Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) and State Emergency Operations Center to assist with voluntary COVID-19 testing for staff and residents at the request of long term care facilities across Michigan. With more than 60 trained testing teams ready to assist, the Michigan National Guard has 15 teams currently assigned to support this long term care facility testing mission.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370741/michigan-national-guard-assists-with-voluntary-covid-19-testing-long-term-care-facility-staff-and-residents

Soldiers and Airmen with the Florida National Guard are providing COVID-19 antibody testing support at the Miami Beach Convention Center and Hard Rock Stadium community based testing sites This support will allow the state and local partners to conduct rapid antibody testing for first responders at both facilities, providing a result within 15 minutes.

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.

Tyndall AFB renames school house: Gen. Lori Robinson Hall - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2198684/tyndall-afb-renames-school-house-gen-lori-robinson-hall/

US Space Force to train space professionals in Space Warfighting Disciplines - https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/2198012/us-space-force-to-train-space-professionals-in-space-warfighting-disciplines

Reserve Citizen Airmen help transportation efforts amid coronavirus pandemic - https://www.433aw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2198026/reserve-citizen-airmen-help-transportation-efforts-amid-coronavirus-pandemic/

AFCEC consolidates program to maximize lethality, readiness - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2198353/afcec-consolidates-program-to-maximize-lethality-readiness/

Hurricane Hunters participate in online National Tropical Weather Conference - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2198439/hurricane-hunters-participate-in-online-national-tropical-weather-conference/

52nd MXG teams up with 435th CRS to get hot pit certified - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2197193/52nd-mxg-teams-up-with-435th-crs-to-get-hot-pit-certified/

Hill’s new manufacturing flight overcomes part shortages - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2198548/hills-new-manufacturing-flight-overcomes-part-shortages/

448th Supply Chain Management Wing meets challenges of COVID-19 - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2197174/448th-supply-chain-management-wing-meets-challenges-of-covid-19/

Spangdahlem expedites out-processing with new weekly event -

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 26, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	483 (+8)	6	245 (+3)	0
Civilian	217 (+4)	6	118 (-2)*	1
Dependents	260 (+3)	6	129 (+1)	1
Contractors	113 (+7)	7 (+1)	39 (+2)	2
Total	1,073	25	531	4

*Corrects previous reports.

May 26, 2020
Secretary of the Air Force Barbara M. Barrett visited Hollman Air Force Base and AFB, New Mexico, May 20-21, 2020, to see how Airmen at both locations have been diligently adapting, innovating, and maintaining mission operations amid COVID-19.

Read more about her visit to Holloman AFB here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2196327/secaf-visits-holloman-air-force-base-during-covid-19/

Air Force officials announced that, beginning June 2, the service will continue to hold basic military training at Keesler AFB until the end of COVID-19 surge operations. The decision to stand up BMT's initial operating capability at Keesler AFB under Detachment 5 of the 37th Training Wing at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas comes after a successful proof-of-concept trial run at the base, which began April 7.

Read this announcement here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2191816/feasibility-of-secondary-air-force-bmt-location-proven-covid-19-surge-operation/

Travis AFB Airmen prototyped personal protective equipment April 17 to help base medics safely treat and transport potential coronavirus patients. Members of the 60th Medical Group emergency department at David Grant USAF Medical Center joined forces with the 60th Maintenance and the 60th Operations Support Squadrons, all here, to develop an isolation pod and an intubation protection box.

Airmen with the 156th Medical Group, Puerto Rico Air National Guard, conducted a COVID-19 rapid test for Puerto Rico National Guard members at Muñiz Air National Guard Base, May 22, 2020. In support of Puerto Rico Health Department efforts to prevent the spread of the novel coronavirus, COVID-19, the PRNG offered voluntary rapid tests for all members.

See photos of their efforts here:

Airmen and Soldiers with the Pennsylvania National Guardsmen assigned to Task Force Iroquois, launched a Point Prevalence Sampling Strike Team at Hickory House Nursing Home, Honeybrook, Pa. The mission is designed to identify possible risks of exposure to the COVID-19 virus by testing the entire staff and residents or the virus. This is one of the first locations within the pilot program that will eventually reach out across the state.

See video of their efforts here:

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Reserve Citizen Airmen like Lt. Col. Andrea A. Haylock, chief nurse with the 514th Aeromedical Staging Squadron, Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey, are actively engaged in critical response efforts on the front lines, right in their own neighborhoods. Haylock serves as a clinical assistant nurse manager at Richmond University Medical Center on Staten Island, New York, and was recently mobilized with the Air Force Reserve to Lincoln Hospital in the Bronx, N.Y., for three weeks in support of COVID-19.

Barrett, Raymond speak with US astronaut ahead of historic launch - https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/2195073/barrett-raymond-speak-with-us-astronaut-ahead-of-historic-launch

B-1 Lancers complete 24-hr sprint from Guam to train in Alaska, Japan - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2195433/b-1s-complete-24-hr-sprint-from-guam-to-train-in-alaska-japan/

Academic, business and military innovation hub to solve command challenges; Virtual ribbon cutting May 28 - https://www.afgsc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2194115/academic-business-and-military-innovation-hub-to-solve-command-challenges-virtu/

Global strike, command and control, rapid global mobility missions showcased in aerial formation - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2196960/global-strike-command-and-control-rapid-global-mobility-missions-showcased-in-a/

Coalition Partnerships Strengthen AFCENT -

Jokers Wild support C-17 Air Ops AFCENT wide -

Second CWSS narrows Air Force Weather’s first-in communications gap - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2195688/2nd-cwss-narrows-air-force-weathers-first-in-communications-gap/

Archer University: Sharpening the Intel Hunters’ Toolkit - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2195608/archer-university-sharpening-the-intel-hunters-toolkit/

New trauma training program prepares surgical team for deployment - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2196304/new-trauma-training-program-prepares-surgical-team-for-deployment/

Adapting A Mission to Mars - A Bright New Future for AFRL STEM Academy - https://www.kirtland.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2195604/adapting-a-mission-to-mars-a-bright-new-future-for-afrl-stem-academy/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 25, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	475 (+13)	6	242 (+11)	0
Civilian	213 (+5)	6	120 (+4)	1 (+1)
Dependents	257 (+2)	6 (+1)	128 (+9)	1
Contractors	106 (+8)	6	37 (-1)**	2 (+1)
Total	1,051	24	527	4

*These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on May 21st.
**Corrects previous reports.

May 21, 2020
Members of a unique component of the U.S. Air Force Reserve’s citizen Airmen have been assisting the Hanscom AFB community navigate COVID-19 response operations. Individual mobilization augmentees, reservists assigned to an active duty counterpart, were activated with the 66th Air Base Group to reinforce senior leaders, and provide seamless support during the health crisis.

Soldiers and Airmen with the Florida National Guard support two new COVID-19 walk-up Community Based Testing Sites (CBTS) at Sherbondy Park in the city of Opa-locka and Shirley Branca Park in the city of Miramar, Florida.

When the request for assistance in New Jersey’s state-run nursing homes came in the wake of COVID-19, Citizen-Airmen with the 177th Fighter Wing and 108th Wing came out in force. U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Abby Guercioni, a 2017 graduate of Absegami High School and a Galloway, New Jersey resident, jumped at the opportunity to assist those in need. She is part of Team Vineland, deployed to the Veterans Memorial Home in Vineland, N.J., with thirty other Airmen who are assisting staff with entry control, logistics, maintenance, cleaning, and activities.

Read more about her efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370434/galloway-airman-gives-back

Capt. Jack Gouge, an Air Force Special Tactics Officer assigned to the 17th Special Tactics Squadron at Fort Benning, Georgia, is leading outreach efforts to collect over a thousand pounds of food and supplies for COVID-19 relief in Puyallup, Washington. The STO is currently serving as the Director of Global Outreach and Community Impact at Bethany Baptist Church in Puyallup, Washington as part of the Department of Defense’s Career Skillbridge program.Read more about his efforts here: https://www.afsoc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2194183/special-tactics-airman-leads-outreach-programs-for-covid-19-relief/

Air Force Recruiting, NASCAR to Honor Fallen Tuskegee Airman Memorial Day Weekend - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2194099/air-force-recruiting-nascar-to-honor-fallen-tuskegee-airman-memorial-day-weekend/

Ellsworth AFB B-1s integrate with allies, partners in Nordic region - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2194060/ellsworth-afb-b-1s-integrate-with-allies-partners-in-nordic-region/

B-1s integrate with allies and partners; fly over Sweden for first-time - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Press-Releases/Article/2192276/b-1s-integrate-with-allies-and-partners-fly-over-sweden-for-first-time/

Dyess AFB conducts Air Force’s First Virtual Collider - https://www.dyess.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2193289/dyess-afb-conducts-air-forces-first-virtual-collider/

934th Security Forces Squadron commemorate the fallen - https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/2192822/934th-security-forces-squadron-commemorate-the-fallen/

MAGNUM: 52nd AMXS keeps F-16s flying, supports regional deterrence, security – https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2194073/magnum-52nd-amxs-keeps-f-16s-flying-supports-regional-deterrence-security/

100th Air Refueling Wing’s agility, capability, versatility - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2194062/100th-air-refueling-wings-agility-capability-versatility/

Fourth Graders go behind the 'virtual' scenes with K-9 training - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2193496/4th-graders-go-behind-the-virtual-scenes-with-k-9-training/

Air University, Arizona State University partner to transform Air Force’s online PME - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2193488/air-university-arizona-state-university-partner-to-transform-air-forces-online/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 20, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military	462 (+12)	6	231 (+1)	0
Civilian	208 (+2)	6	116 (+1)	0
Dependents	255 (+3)	5	119	1 (+1)
Contractors	98 (+2)	6 (+1)	38	1
Total	1,023	23	504	2

May 20, 2020

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein and Chief Master Sergeant of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright visited Minot Air Force Base, North Dakota, May 14. The senior leaders saw how Minot AFB has remained mission-ready and resilient throughout the COVID-19 pandemic.

To respond to the growing demand for COVID-19-related supplies, the Air Force is piloting an initiative called the Rapid Agile Manufacturing Platform to leverage the full capacity of the U.S. manufacturing base. This initiative, which kicked off on April 10 as part of the Department of the Air Force Acquisition COVID-19 Task Force, is designed as a framework to keep the Air Force supply system independent of the civilian medical supply market.

Airmen and Soldiers with the Nebraska National Guard mobile testing teams are supporting COVID-19 testing locations under the Test Nebraska initiative, which is aimed at significantly expanding testing capacity in the state over the next several weeks. Test Nebraska is a three-part program, implemented through a public/private partnership designed to help state officials understand the health of Nebraskans, expand testing capacity, and inform those who are affected.

See video of their efforts here:

The 78th Medical Group Clinical Laboratory at Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, activated their in-house COVID-19 molecular testing capabilities May 7, becoming the first Air Force Sustainment Center clinic to offer in-house COVID-19 testing. The decision to test a patient is made by their Primary Care Manager based on symptoms, potential for community transmission and risk of exposure among other factors.

The Civil Air Patrol was established in 1941 and has evolved into a premier public service organization that continues to support emergency missions throughout the country when needed. As a total force partner and auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, the CAP found a way to assist with Michigan’s response to COVID-19 while preserving its 79-year legacy of service and maintaining its commitment to nearly 1,500 communities nationwide.

319th Medical Group Airman collects sample from a visitor during coronavirus testing on Grand Forks Air Force Base, North Dakota, May 19. Those who were tested were then also directed to self-quarantine until results return.

See photos of this effort here:

The 344th TRS participates in resiliency chat with CMSAF Wright - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2191802/344th-trs-participates-in-resiliency-chat-with-cmsaf-wright/

COMACC joins AFTAC Airmen in online training session - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2192609/comacc-joins-aftac-airmen-in-online-training-session/

PSAB continues to provide dynamic mission capability - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2189870/psab-continues-to-provide-dynamic-mission-capability/

In Your Boots: 22nd Expeditionary Weather Squadron -

RED HORSE: heavy construction, self-sufficient, rapidly deployable force - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2191138/red-horse-heavy-construction-self-sufficient-rapidly-deployable-force/

DLIELC hosts firs female Lebanese air traffic controller - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2192563/dlielc-hosts-first-female-lebanese-air-traffic-controller/

U.S. Air Force, Chilean Air Force continue the mission despite COVID-19 -

AFLCMC maintenance team airlifts to repair Holloman AFB F-16s during COVID-19 pandemic - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2191878/aflcmc-maintenance-team-airlifts-to-repair-holloman-f-16s-during-covid-19-pande/

Combat Ready Airman program meets uniform and equipment needs for Airmen - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2192584/combat-ready-airman-program-meets-uniform-and-equipment-needs-for-airmen/

Oregon Airmen leverage technology to complete training and mission during pandemic -

demic">https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370350/oregon-airmen-leverage-technology-complete-training-and-mission-during-pandemic

911th Airlift Wing conducts first C-17 Globemaster III home station check since conversion - https://www.pittsburgh.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2185838/911th-aw-conducts-first-home-station-check-on-pittsburgh-soil/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 19, 2020.

	CASES	HOSPITALIZED	RECOVERED	DEATHS
Military*	450 (-3)	6	230 (+4)	0
Civilian	206 (+1)	6	115 (+3)	0
Dependents*	252 (-25)	5		96 (-2)	5 (+1)	38 (+1)	1
Total	1,004	22	502	1

*Corrects previous rep

r Force are working to keep the workplace safe during the COVID-19 pandemic. Col. Brian Peake, Air Force Bioenvironmental Engineering associate corps chief, says bioenvironmental engineers are using their experience in exposures and risk mitigation to combat the spread of the disease.

Seventy-two days into the COVID-19 pandemic response mission, New York National Guard Soldiers and Airmen have assisted in administering over a quarter of a million COVID-19 tests, distributed over 11 million meals, and assembled just under a million COVID-19 test kits. As of May 18, the New York National Guard had 3,524 personnel on duty as part of

emains the Soldiers and Airmen working at 15 drive-thru testing sites located across the state. 252,959 New Yorkers have been tested at these sites since the first one opened in Westchester County in March.

Read more about their efforts here:

s-help-test-250000-citizens" target="_blank">https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370250/ny-national-guard-troops-distribute-11-million-meals-help-test-2
en Whitmer’s announcement activating the Michigan National Guard for COVID-19 humanitarian support, U.S. Air Force Brig. Gen. Bryan Teff, assistant adjutant general – Air and commander of the Michigan Air National Guard, is reflecting on the challenges and triumphs of the Michigan National Guard’s time at the front lines of the COVID-19 fight.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370266/joint-innovation-hallmark-michigan-national-guards-response-covid-19

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.

The 618th AOC undergoes extensive organizational transformation - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2190917/618th-aoc-undergoes-extensive-organizational-transformation/

Wings and Blades of Hope - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370268/wings-and-blades-hope

Flying units still delivering during pandemic - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2190669/flying-units-still-delivering-during-pandemic/

Air Force English language beta test advances despite COVID-19 - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2190360/air-force-english-language-beta-test-advances-despite-covid-19/

Using AI to improve intelligence gathering - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2190029/using-ai-to-improve-intelligence-gathering/

Tourette’s poses no setback for EOD Airman - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2190911/tourettes-poses-no-setback-for-eod-airman/

Defenders close out Police Week - https://www.warren.af.mil/News/Article/2191155/defenders-close-out-police-week/

Food on the Front Lines of COVID-19 -

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 18, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 453 (+4) 6 226 0

Civilian 205 6 112 (+1) 0

Dependents 277 (+5) 5 117 (+3) 0

Contractors 97 (+2) 4 37 (+1) 1

Total 1,032 21 492 1

Airmen graduated U.S. Air Force basic military training outside of Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. A flight of nearly 60 Airmen from the 37th Training W
sissippi, May 15.

Read more about BMT Graduation here: -at-keesler/

U.S. Air Force medical personnel transfer COVID-19 patients from the flightline at Ramstein Air Base, Ger
aster III from Afghanistan, utilizing the Transport Isolation System to prevent the spread of the infectious disease. The TIS is an infectious disease containment unit designed to minimize contamination risk to aircrew and medical attendants, while allowing in-flight medical care for patients afflicted by a disease like COVID-19.

See photos of this effort here: https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Displ
/>

Amidst the COVID-19 pandemic, the Indiana National Guard supported local agencies throughout the state to curb virus’s spread and serve during the time of need. The Guard's COVID-19 plans team, stationed at Stout Field, Indianapolis, filled a critical component in organizing specialized teams while protecting the health and safety of soldiers and airmen serving on the front lines.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370174/indiana-guard-team-provides-crucial-support-frontline-guardsmen

More than 180 Airmen and Soldiers from the Massachusetts National Guard with civilian medical backgrounds have been called up to serve with Task Force Raptor and join the commonwealth’s fight against COVID-19. Unique to TF Raptor, the Guard members on this mission have civilian medical training and were activated regardless of their traditional Army Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) or Air Force Specialty Code (AFSC).

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370132/mass-guard-members-utilize-civilian-medical-training-covid-19-fight

Members of the Iowa Air National Guard’s 185th Air Refueling Wing and the Army National Guard’s D Company, 334th Brigade Support Battalion have opened a joint COVID-19 testing site in Storm Lake Iowa.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370167/iowa-army-and-air-national-guard-open-covid-19-testing-site-storm-lake-iowa

See b-roll of their efforts here: -test-site" target="_blank">

Texas Air National Guard Airmen supported COVID-19 testing efforts in Mount Pleasant, Texas, by establishing and operating a Mobile Testing Team facility. The MTT program is a collaboration between the Texas Military Department and other state agencies under the order of Governor Greg Abbott to provide free COVID-19 testing across the state of Texas.

See photos of their efforts here:

Soldiers and Airmen with the West Virginia National Guard, West Virginia Department of Health and Human Resources, and the Berkeley County Health Department supported COVID-19 test lanes for minorities and vulnerable populations, May 15, 2020, on Bulldog Blvd in between Martinsburg High and South Middle Schools in Martinsburg, W.Va. The WVNG Task Force Chemical, Biological, Radiological, Nuclear (CBRN) Response Enterprise, or TF CRE, along with WVNG medical personnel supported the mission which was being conducted simultaneously at four locations in the state.

See photos of this 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.

Air Force Global Strike Command integrates globally for mission success - https://www.dvidshub.net/video/752824/air-force-global-strike-command-integrates-globally-mission-success

Hurricane Hunters fly first mission of 2020 Atlantic Season - http://www.403wg.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2189349/hurricane-hunters-fly-first-m
ctions - http
-blank-exercise-adapts-to-pandemic-restrictions/

During COVID-19 crisis, Cal Guardsmen prepare for wildfires - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370130/during-covid-19-crisis-cal-guardsmen-prepare-wildfires

JTF 115 J6: Keeping Guardsmen connected - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370086/jtf-115-j6-keeping-guardsmen-connected

926th Wing Airman taking care of deployers - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/370079/926th-wing-airman-taking-care-deployers

124th Fighter Wing Deploy During COVID-19 Pandemic -

Reaper Airman fulfills dream of earning Ranger tab - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2189758/reaper-airman-fulfills-dream-of-earning-ranger-tab/

15th OWS creating margin with Ready Month - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2189772/15th-ows-creating-margin-with-ready-month/

Loud and Clear: 5th Combat Communications Group keeps warfighters connected, communications on point during pandemic - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2189803/loud-and-clear-5th-combat-communications-group-keeps-warfighters-connected-comm/

Load planners create critical balance in cargo, passenger movements - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2189497/load-planners-create-critical-balance-in-cargo-passenger-movements/

The 31st MDSS sets standard for USAFE - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2189549/the-31st-mdss-sets-standard-for-usafe/

IAAFA Adapts during COVID-19, Continues International Professional Military Education via Distance Learning - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2189674/iaafa-adapts-during-covid-19-continues-international-professional-military-educ/

Adopt-An-MTL: Goodfellow's community action team thanks military training leaders - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2189006/adopt-an-mtl-goodfellows-community-action-team-thanks-military-training-leaders/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 17, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 449 (+7) 6 (-3) 226 (+5) 0

Civilian 205 (+2) 6 (-2) 111 (+2) 0

Dependents 272 (+2) 5 (-1) 114 (+4) 0

Contractors 95 4 (-1) 36 (+1) 1

Total 1,021 21 487 1

*These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on May 15th.

May 15, 2020
Even as the U.S. health system faces a shortage of personal protective equipment during the COVID-19 pandemic, the Air Force Medical Service is equipped to protect patients and providers. The Air Force maintains stockpiles of medical PPE at each military treatment facility.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.airforcemedicine.af.mil/News/Display/Article/2186589/air-force-equipped-to-protect-patients-and-providers/

Cyberspace experts in the Maryland National Guard are expanding their efforts with IT professionals statewide to address cyber threats seeking to exploit the COVID-19 pandemic. Joint Task Force Cyber, as it’s known, consists of cyber specialists from the MDNG and Maryland Defense Force, working in cooperation with the Maryland Department of Information Technology to assist in protecting websites and other online platforms that provide critical information and resources to the citizens of Maryland.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369987/joint-cyber-task-force-mdng-assists-howard-county-during-covid-19

Airmen from the 150th Mission support Group went to Rock Springs, New Mexico for another food delivery in support of the New Mexico National Guard Joint Task Force COVID-19 response mission.

See photos of their efforts here:

Members of the Utah National Guard sort medical supplies at a staging warehouse, May 14, 2020 in Salt Lake City. More than 120 Soldiers and Airmen from the Utah National Guard are assisting in the COVID-19 response, including supply and warehouse management, logistics, and testing.

See photos of their efforts here:

Video B-Roll:

Retired Air Force Maj. Jeremy Essman, now senior director of Clinical Operations at Buffalo General Hospital, Ne
ut his efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369963/107th-attack-wing-veteran-appreciates-military-support-healthcare-workers

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:

The 94th Airlift Wing C-130 Hercules flyover to honor healthcare works in Georgia.

Video B-roll: :center">

The 914th Air Refueling Wing conducted a flyover of Niagara Falls and Buffalo, New York-area hospitals to honor healthcare workers.

Video B-Roll:

-over-western-new-york" target="_blank">

Hickam AFB Salutes Hawaii residents.

Video B-Roll:

Video B-Roll: yle="text-align:center">

Photos:

The 146th Airlift Wing Salutes health care workers.

Photos: ing-salutes-health-care-workers-and-first-responders-with-flyover" target="_blank">

Photos:

Video Interview with pilot:

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.

Wilsbach nominated to command Pacific Air Forces - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2187427/wilsbach-nominated-to-command-pacific-air-forces/

AFRL Satellite Duo Probing Earth’s Radiation Belts - https://www.kirtland.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2187232/afrl-satellite-duo-probing-earths-radiation-belts/

A lucky flight in the fight: Aircrew receives combat medal - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2188031/a-lucky-flight-in-the-fight-aircrew-receives-combat-meda
Display/Article/2187238/mcconnell-first-to-test-kc-46-nvg-flights/" target="_blank">https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2187238/mcconnell-first-to-test-kc-46-nvg-flights/

The 52nd CES tame flames from COVID-19 - https://www.u
lames-from-covid-19/

Airfield management propels JBER flight ops amid pandemic - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2187363/airfield-management-propels-jber-flight-ops-amid-pandemic/

Range Squadron to manage 77,000 square miles of airspace - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2187368/range-squadron-to-manage-77000-square-miles-of-airspace/

AFFSA navigates mission-critical support during COVID-19 - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2186786/affsa-navigates-mission-critical-support-during-covid-19/

New research pushes boundaries in metals printing - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2188156/new-research-pushes-boundaries-in-metals-printing/

Fail Forward: Lessons learned from a career AF Special Tactics operator - https://www.afsoc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2187684/fail-forward-lessons-learned-from-a-career-af-special-tactics-operator/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 14, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 442 (+11) 9 221 (+6) 0

Civilian 203 8 109 (+2) 0

Dependents 270 (+1) 6 (-1) 110 (+2) 0

Contractors 95 (+1) 5 35 1

Total 1,010 28 475 1

May 14, 2020
In response to the ongoing COVID-19 outbreak, an 86th Airlift Wing C-130J Super Hercules out of Ramstein Air Base, Germany, assisted the Italian government in transporting medical and other relief supplies between supply hubs in Milan and Rome, Italy, May 13.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.ramstein.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2186436/usafes-c-130j-support-to-italy/
See video of this effort here:

Air National Guardsmen from the 149th Fighter Wing assist the San Antonio Food Bank in sorting, packing and distribution during the COVID-19 pandemic.

See photos of their efforts here:

Members of the Michigan Air and Army National Guard are sweeping across Michigan’s Upper Peninsula assisting long-term care and correctional facilities in testing employees and prisoners. The joint Guard members, known as Task Force Tiger, have been working in conjunction with the governor’s office to complete the COVID-19 testing requirements that have been established for high-risk facilities.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369914/michigan-national-guard-assists-long-term-care-facilities-dept-corrections-covid-19-testing
See video of their efforts here:

Living in poverty in rural China where there was little opportunity, Col.(select) Hui Li’s parents knew they needed to do something different to ensure Li and her siblings would have a better life and education. Having no idea what they were about to get into, her parents took a leap of faith, packed up and immigrated to the United States. Li, who is the 88th Medical Group's Chief of Aerospace Medicine and the 88th Air Base Wing Public Health Emergency Officer has become the COVID-19 Public Health Emergency incident commander.

Read more about her efforts here: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2186086/from-immigrant-to-pandemic-fighter/

Some career choices are a calling rather than simply an occupation. Capt. Tra-Vorus Weaver followed his calling to the ministry and became a chaplain with the 104th Fighter Wing in 2018. He was recently activated by the unit to minister at the Holyoke Soldiers’ Home as part of the COVID-19 response mission there.

Read about his efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369868/104th-fighter-wing-chaplain-ministers-troops-veterans-and-staff

For one retired Grissom AFB Airman, leaving the military doesn’t mean sitting on the sidelines during a crisis. Juanita Withrow, Grissom Drug Demand Reduction Program manager, has produced almost 900 face masks while working from home, all of which have been donated to Grissom AFB Airmen and the local community.

Read more about her effort here: https://www.grissom.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2185590/retired-airman-keeps-team-grissom-supplied-with-masks/

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 conducte
Jersey.
Photos:

California Guard jets fly over state capitol, honoring first responders
Video B-Roll:

The 121st Air Refueling Wing and 180th Fighter Wing Salute Ohio
Photos: yovers
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.

Satellite hacking challenge shifts to fully virtual event - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2185826/satellite-hacking-challenge-shifts-to-fully-virtual-event/

JBLE physician awarded Federal Health Care Executive Award for Excellence - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2186700/jble-physician-awarded-federal-health-care-executive-award-for-excellence/

After a year of successes, Air Force continues to advance S&T strategy - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2186772/after-a-year-of-successes-air-force-continues-to-advance-st-strategy/

Making history, reserve pilot flies the U-2 for the first time - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/A

Multi-domain warfare officers, delivering critical capabilities - ain-warfare-officers-delivering-critical-capabilities/

SUPT classes 20-14, 20-15 set to graduate - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2185840/supt-classes-20-14-20-15-set-to-graduate/

WSSS “kicks it” with social distancing - https://www.kirtland.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2185557/wsss-kicks-it-with-social-distancing/

Mental Health Awareness Month: Resiliency, wellness - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2186680/mental-health-awareness-month-resiliency-wellness/

A new normal - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2186052/a-new-normal/

Honoring fallen Defenders: 100th SFS Memorial Ruck March - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2186434/honoring-fallen-defenders-100th-sfs-memorial-ruck-march/

Housing office provides safe, clean homes for families, ensures mission readiness - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2185757/housing-office-provides-safe-clean-homes-for-families-ensures-mission-readiness/

COVID-19 risk demonstrates importance of keeping healthy - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2185496/covid-19-risk-demonstrates-importance-of-keeping-healthy/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 13, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 431 (-2) 9 215 0

Civilian* 203 (+1) 8 (-1) 107 (-2) 0

Dependents 269 (+2) 7 108 (-1) 0

Contractors 94 (+4) 5 35 (+1) 1

Total 997 29 465 1

* Corrects previous reports.

May 13, 2020
The Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, will honor frontline COVID-19 responders and essential workers with formation flights over San Diego and Los Angeles May 15.

Read the announcement here: irds.com/site/2020/05/12/thunderbirds-to-salute-california-covid-19-responders/

Gen. Arnold W. Bunch Jr., Air Force Materiel Command commander, visited Robins Air Force Base, Georgia, May 8, to view ongoing mission efforts and review “return to full capacity” operational execution plans in progress.

Read more about his visit here: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2184471/afmc-commander-visits-robins/

Several 919th Special Operations Medical Squadron members are putting their extensive training with the Air Force Reserve to good use by supporting community hospitals and clinics around the country. The experience gained from participating in demanding ex
os while working in their civilian capacities on the front lines of the coronavirus crisis.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.919sow.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2184537/919th-medical-professionals-on-the-front-lines/

Michigan Army and Air National Guard members from various units across the state assist the Michigan Department of Corrections (MDOC) with COVID-19 testing of prisoners at the Chippewa Correctional Facility, Kincheloe, Michigan. Guard members assisted the MDOC by testing prisoners at correctional facilities throughout Michigan’s Upper Peninsula in order to help protect prisoners and staff from the coronoavirus disease.

See video of their efforts here:

As Oklahoma’s whole-of-government response to COVID-19 progresses, so does the Oklahoma Air and Army National Guard’s mission. As of May 6, 2020, Oklahoma Gov. Kevin Stitt activated 360 Guardsmen to assist their fellow Oklahomans, alongside state agencies such as the Oklahoma State Department of Health and Regional Food Banks.

See video of their efforts here:

Area residents are rallying around a team of medical Airmen from California Air National Guard units throughout the state as they work with the California Medical Assistant Team-Indio to run a COVID-19 testing facility in Indio. The testing site, which is located at the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival grounds, has received an outpouring of donations from people and organizations in the Coachella Valley who want to help with the fight against COVID-19.

Read about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369544/community-rallies-around-military-indio-testing-facility

Maj. Tori Scearbo is one of thousands of state medical professionals working the front lines of the COVID-19 pandemic. She has been taking care of patients since the virus spread to New Hampshire in March. A native of Bangor, Maine, she serves in the New Hampshire Air National Guard as a nurse for the 157th Medical Group, Det. 1 CERFP and as a critical care nurse at Portsmouth Hospital.

Read more about her story here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369818/maj-tori-scearbo-nh-air-national-guardsman-and-guardian-angel

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:

Various Aircraft from the 27th Special Operations Wing at Cannon AFB, New Mexico, perform a flyover over the Plains Regional Medical Center in support of Essential Workers who continue to work during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Video B-roll:

Maine National Guard Salutes COVID-19 Frontline Workers

Video B-Roll: trong>

New Jersey Salutes Fly Over North Jersey and New York City F-16 D Model

Video B-Roll:

Print Story: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369843/new-jersey-salutes-flyover

Air Force Salutes Upstate New York, 109th Air Wing, New York

Video B-Roll:

Photos:

115th Fighter Wing shows support for healthcare and frontline workers with flyover

Video Package:

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.

Forging the future, first-ever virtual Air Force Women’s Fly-In boldly leads the way - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2185108/forging-the-future-first-ever-virtual-air-force-womens-fly-in-boldly-leads-the/

B-1s conduct training in East China Sea, integrate with JASDF - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2183729/b-1s-conduct-training-in-east-china-sea-integrate-with-jasdf/

COVID-19 delays homecomings for some - https://www.419fw.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2184386/covid-19-delays-homecomings-for-some/

Air Reserve Personnel Center Spread the Word program goes virtual - https://www.arpc.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2180365/hq-arpcs-spread-the-word-program-goes-virtual/

T-38 squadron changes commanders during four-ship formation over Oklahoma - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2184832/t-38-squadron-changes-commanders-during-four-ship-formation-over-oklahoma/

14th Medical Group boosts morale, shows support for workers - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2184889/14th-mdg-boosts-morale-shows-support-for-workers/

309th Electronics Maintenance Group mission ready, delivers critical parts to the warfighter - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2184866/309th-electronics-maintenance-group-mission-ready-delivers-critical-parts-to-th/

Edwards AFB first to test Air Force Comptroller Services Portal - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2185313/edwards-afb-first-to-test-air-force-comptroller-services-portal/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 12, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 433 (+3) 9 215 (+6) 0

Civilian* 202 (-5) 9 109 (+6) 0

Dependents 267 (+2) 7 109 (+5) 0

Contractors 90 (+1) 5 34 (+2) 1

Total 992 30 467 1

* Corrects previous reports.

May 12, 2020
Air University has added to its investment of a multilayered preventative health strategy at Officer Training School to allow it to safely continue its mission of producing Air Force officers while in the midst of the coronavirus pandemic.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2183153/air-university-invests-in-technology-to-mitigate-airborne-pathogens-at-ots/

Southern Nevadan Ai
ltiple missions across the Silver State, roughly 653 Guardsmen are on three southern task forces and roughly 431 have joined the fight in northern Nevada. These men and women have turned in their weapons and armor for masks and scrubs in the largest state activation in Nevada Army National Guard history.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369754/task-force-med-spearheads-fig
r Guard medical professionals are augmenting a civilian nursing home in Covington. The 5-person team, composed of four medics and a registered nurse, had been working at the Alternate Care Facility, located in Louisville, and volunteered to help at the Rosedale Green Nursing Caution-Home.

Read more about their efforts here: rget="_blank">https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369737/kentucky-air-guardsman-provide-medical-support-nursing-home-northern-kentucky

Since mobilizing to respond to the COVID-19 pandemic on March 6, the New York National Guard has assisted in conducting 225,825 COVID-19 tests, made 634,030 COVID-19 test kits and delivered 7.3 million meals to New York residents. As of May 10, the New York National Guard had 3,551 personnel on duty responding to the COVID-19 mission. This included 2,938 New York Army National Guard Soldiers and 451 New York Air National Guard Airmen.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369725/ny-national-guard-continues-missions-with-3500-troops-duty

Texas National Guard Airmen and Soldiers conduct COVID-19 testing in Borger, Texas, as part of a Mobile Testing Team. The Mobile Testing Teams have been dispatched across the state of Texas on the order of Governor Greg Abbott in order to ensure that Texans in every corner of the state have access to free COVID-19 testing in order to curb the spread of the virus.

See photos of their efforts here:

Airmen and Soldiers from Delaware National Guard's Joint Task Force arrived at the Delaware Department of Health and Social Services facility in Dover, Del., to receive specialized training dealing with COVID-19 mapping and data gathering. The Guardsmen, who were placed on State Active Duty prior to this state mission, plan on reaching out to local Delaware residents who tested COVID positive and "mapping" their in-
ere:

See video of their efforts here:

While the 104th Fighter Wing continues to support the COVID-19 response mission, Airmen behind-the-scenes are working hard to take care of their peers and ensure the mission continues to run smoothly. Airman Jack Proulx is a financial management technician in the comptroller flight at the 104th Fighter Wing. He works part-time in the comptroller office while going to school full-time.

Read more about his story here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369723/104th-fighter-wing-airmen-behind-scenes-supporting-mission

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:

The Texas Air National Guard's 149th Fighter Wing, The "Gunfighters", performed an F-16 flyover above Lubbock, Texas on the morning of May 11, 2020. The flyover was performed to support local hospitals, health care providers, and caregivers as they fight on the front-lines of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Video B-Roll:

Photos:

Beale AFB T-38s honor healthcare workers, first responders with flyover
Story: https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2184068/beale-afb-t-38s-honor-healthcare-workers-first-responders-with-flyover/

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-1 integrates with allies and partners during Bomber Task Force mission - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369701/b-1-integrates-with-allies-and-partners-during-bomber-task-force-mission

Environmental Assessment gives Tyndall green light to rebuild into ‘Installation of the Future’ - ticle/2184029/environmental-assessment-gives-tyndall-green-light-to-rebuild-into-installation/

Malmstrom Defenders recognize National Police Week - https://www.malmstrom.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2183332/malmstrom-defenders-recognize-national-police-week/

The Triple Nickel Returns Home -

Pathfinder postal teams maintain readiness during COVID-19 -

RAM flights secure fight against COVID-19 -

4/12 initiative culminates in 19th AW deployment - tes-in-19th-aw-deployment/

Wolf Pack pharmacy: the first line of defense - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2183457/wolf-pack-pharmacy-the-first-line-of-defense/

311th Fighter Squadron graduates Class 19-DBH - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2183874/311th-fighter-squadron-graduates-class-19-dbh/

SUPT Classes 20-12, 20-13 at Laughlin set to graduate - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2183865/supt-classes-20-12-20-13-at-laughlin-set-to-graduate/

Virtually There: Barnes Center graduates first virtual class - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2183845/virtually-there-barnes-center-graduates-first-virtual-class/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 11, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 430 (+13) 9 (+1) 209 (+16) 0

Civilian* 207 9 103 (+3) 0

Dependents 265 (+9) 7 (+1) 104 (+6) 0

Contractors 89 (+1) 5 32 1

Total 991 30 448 1

May 11,2020

The U.S. Air Force Air Demonstration Squadron, the Thunderbirds, will honor frontline COVID-19 responders and essential workers with formation flights over San Antonio and Austin May 13.

Read the announcement here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2182767/usaf-thunderbirds-to-salute-texas-covid-19-responders-may-13/

The 96th Medical Group obtained the ability to test for COVID-19 at their laboratory at Eglin Air Force Base, Florida in early April. The lab’s technicians received and brought the novel coronavirus test kits ‘on-line’ April 10 to begin (in-house) testing for area DOD beneficiaries. With this capability, Eglin’s lab technicians cut the two-day processing time in half.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2182809/eglin-lab-begins-covid-19-testing/

Travis Air Force Base is now one of three staging areas for the U.S. Air Force’s specialized aeromedical evacuation missions relating to the ongoing COVID-19 global pandemic. Air Mobility Command, headquartered at Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, selected Travis AFB, Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina, and Ramstein Air Base, Germany, as staging grounds for its AE missions involving Transportation Isolation System use.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2181839/travis-afb-bolsters-usaf-aeromedical-evacuation-capabilities-amid-covid-19/

COVID-19 has promoted most of the planet to change the way things are done, but for Sheppard Air Force Base, Texas, technical training for Airmen arriving from basic military training doesn’t stop. With that being said, certain protective and precautionary measures have been put in place for the arrival of new Airmen as well as students from sister services, and the departure of those who have completed their training here. Instead of being transported in from Lackland AFB, Texas to Sheppard AFB, Airmen are now being flown in to avoid contamination on the journey.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2182677/sheppard-establishes-temporary-pax-terminal-for-bmt-airmen/

An emergency by nature is unpredictable but, for the 509th Bomb Wing Emergency Management team, preparing for the unknown is their specialty. The nine-person team is accountable for every emergency response plan on the entire installation. Most notably, the Medical Disease Containment Plan with the onset of the COVID-19 virus.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.whiteman.af.mil/News/Article/2181553/emergency-management-whitemans-all-hazard-responders/

Airmen and Soldiers help prepare meals at Veterans Haven North. Operated by the New Jersey Department of Military and Veterans Affairs, it is a transitional housing facility for homeless veterans that provides its residents long-term rehabilitation services and employment training.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369539/guardsmen-make-difference-veterans-haven-north

A team of 35 Iowa Air National Guard members from the 185th Air Refueling Wing helped set up a COVID-19 test site in Sioux City, Iowa this week, assisting local and state agencies with logistics and traffic control at the drive through test site.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369595/iowa-guard-airmen-support-test-iowa-covid-19-test

Indiana National Guard Soldiers and Airmen p
sponse to the COVID-19 pandemic. The medical professionals augmented the governor's effort to reduce the impact of COVID-19 in correctional facilities during this public health crisis.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369572/indiana-national-guard-medics-provide-support-indiana-department-correction

Soldiers and Airmen with the Delaware National Guard are fighting the spread of coronavirus this month, joining hundreds of front-line workers at community-based testing sites throughout Sussex County, the state’s southernmost region, and a recently declared hot spot for COVID-19. The community-based testing locations, utilizing both rapid blood tests and nasal swabs, have been geared towards essential employees, at-risk populations, and those with symptoms associated with the deadly respiratory virus.

Read more about their effort here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369668/covid-19-hot-spot-delaware-national-guard-supports-coronavirus-testing-sussex-county

Nurses working alongside Airmen with the 125th Air Expeditionary Squadron begin antibody testing at the Orange County Convention Center Community Based Testing Site on May 9, 2020. The nurses are collecting blood samples to test for antibodies against COVID-19 as the National Guard provides logistical and traffic control support for the Florida Department of Health.

See photos of this efforts here:

While most people get to go home after a long, grueling day at work, Kevin Kulow an emergency room physician at Gulf Coast Regional Medical Center and Air Force Reservist, walks straight to his camper, a short distance from the emergency room where he has faced a wide range of unexpected illnesses and possibly COVID-19 patients.

Read more about his story here: https://www.919sow.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2182443/home-at-the-hospital/

Air Force units have recently conducted America Salutes flyovers in their local areas honoring COVID-19 responders and essential workers. Below
olumbus AFB salutes local frontline heroes with flyovers

Story: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2182639/columbus-afb-salutes-local-frontline-heroes-with-flyovers/

The 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard conducted community flyovers to honor frontline COVID-19 responders and essential workers across the state.

Video Package:

The 913 Airlift Group at Little Rock AFB, Arkansas participated in an Air Force Salute flyover saluting healthcare worker across the state.

Photos: https://www.dvidshub.net/search?q=LRAFB+America+Strong+flyover&view=grid

Story: https://www.913ag.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/2173167/reserve-group-flyover-honors-arkansas-healthcare-workers/

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.

A passion for helping and leading: Nurse leads Air Force Medical Service - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2182737/a-passion-for-helping-and-leading-nurse-leads-air-force-medical-service/

USSTRATCOM Conducts Long-Range Strategic Bomber Mission - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2182539/usstratcom-conducts-long-range-strategic-bomber-mission/

We Have the Watch! America’s AOC monitors the skies over the continental U.S. - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2182602/we-have-the-watch-americas-aoc-monitors-the-skies-over-the-continental-us/

Managing COVID-19: Ogden ALC's 309th Commodities Maintenance Group continues to thrive - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2182733/managing-covid-19-ogden-alcs-309th-commodities-maintenance-group-continues-to-t/

50th OSS conducts space operator training amid COVID-19 pandemic -

312th TRS continues training DoD firefighters - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2182655/312th-trs-continues-training-dod-firefighters/

334th TRS partners with USM, strive to update curriculum - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2181489/334th-trs-partners-with-usm-strive-to-update-curriculum/

High School Seniors honored during parade, ceremony - https://www.malmstrom.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2182203/high-school-seniors-honored-during-parade-ceremony
-heroes/" target="_blank">https://www.warren.af.mil/News/Article/2181697/rucking-for-heroes/

Resiliency training offered virtually for AMC spouses - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2181266/resiliency-training-offered-virtually-for-amc-spouses/

445th reserve maintainers keep C-17 mission going during COVID-19-
w.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2182592/445th-maintainers-keep-mission-going-during-covid-19/

Hurricane season is less than a month away, starting June 1. Are you ready? - /www.403wg.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2180550/are-you-ready-for-hurricane-season/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 10, 2020.

CASES DEATHS

Military 417 (+8) 8 193 (+12) 0

Civilian* 207 (+1) 9 100 (+9) 0

Dependents 256 (+11) 6 98 (+8 0

Contractors 83 (-1) 5 28 1

Total 943 28 390 1

*These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on May 8th.

May 8, 2020
Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein, along with Chief Master Sgt. Manny Pineiro, the service’s first sergeant special duty manager, visited Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland May 7, seeing firsthand how basic military training has adapted operations to fight through the COVID-19 environment.

Read more about their visit here: https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2179223/nurse-and-tech-week-heroes-among-us/

The Department of the Air Force’s Acquisition COVID-19 Task Force, or DAF-ACT, executed a $126 million contract on May 1 for expanded production of N95 masks — 26 million per month — starting in October. The contract, awarded to 3M, will increase the supply chain of N95 masks and resupply the Strategic National Stockpile following increased demand due to COVID-19.

Read this announcement here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2180225/daf-act-contracting-executes-n95-mask-production-for-dod/

What started as an idea from the Air Force chief of staff transitioning to a Joint Task Force capability fulfilled by 9th Air Force. Ninth Air Force stood up Task Force-Southeast to aid FEMA regions III and IV in the fight against coronavirus, showcasing to the Air Force chief of staff that the numbered Air Force is ready and able to execute JTF command and control.

See video of this JTF here:

The key to finding a vaccine or effective treatment against COVID-19 may lie in its genetic code. Researchers around the globe are searching for clues to unlock the secrets of the novel coronavirus as the epidemic continues to spread worldwide. The Air Force Genetics Center of Excellence at Keesler Air Force Base in Biloxi, Mississippi, is aiding in that scientific research effort to sequence the severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2, or SARS-CoV-2, genome, the virus strain that causes COVID-19.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2179613/dha-collaborates-to-further-sequence-the-sars-cov-2-code/

The process of changing duty stations is temporarily evolving now that more precautions are in place due to COVID-19. Tyndall Air Force Base has created Task Force Roadrunner; a multi-agency, collaborate task force specializing in controlling the reception of incoming Airmen to limit the possible spread of COVID-19.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2180734/tyndall-takes-action-inbound-airmen-protected-through-quarantine/

Having served with a community-based organization at a ballpark in Macon, Georgia, for 40 years, Freddie Stewart Jr., a communications focal point in the 78th Air Base Wing’s Communications Directorate at Robins, has seen the needs of many families in the area firsthand.

Read more about his efforts here:  https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2180845/robins-civilian-serves-community-during-pandemic/

Medical professionals from the Pennsylvania National Guard perform ventilator training at the Medical Simulation Training Center at Fort Indiantown Gap, Pa., May 6, 2020. The training is very relevant to what the Soldiers and Airmen might face while assisting the fight against COVID-19.

See video of their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369301/ohio-national-guard-front-lines-during-covid-19-pandemic-soldiers-airmen-provide-medical-assistance-federal-prison

Capt. Jim Kane’s unit, the 144th Medical Detachment, 144th Fighter Wing, was one of the first of the California National Guard to be activated to serve a COVID-19 response mission. He and other members from one of his unit’s medical support teams were tasked by the California Governor’s Office of Emergency Services to support the California Emergency Services Authority with the care and monitoring of 21 passengers from the Grand Princess Cruise Line.

Read more about his efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369446/capt-jim-kane-citizen-airman-caring-community

Airmen from the 190th Air Refueling Wing provide N95 protective mask testing for the staff of the Homestead of Topeka. The N95 masks are used by the Homestead of Topeka staff to minimize spread of diseases, such as COVID-19 and will strengthen their defense response while continuing to care for all residents.

See photos of their efforts here:

Air Force units have
l workers. Below are links to imagery from the units that have conducted flyovers:

The Missouri Air National Guard’s 131st Bomb Wing will conduct B-2 flyovers of six Missouri communities to honor medical and healthcare professionals, essential employees and volunteers in the fight against COVID-19 on the afternoon and evening of May 8.

Story: https://www.whiteman.af.mil/News/Article/2179682/missouri-air-national-guard-to-conduct-b-2-stealth-bomber-salute-to-covid-19-es/

910th launches second round of “Hercs Over America” flyovers

Photos:

The 302nd AW performed a C-130 flyover in support of "Operation Air Force Salutes" to honor Colorado healthcare workers during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Video B-Roll:

Story: https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/2180565/302nd-airlift-wing-thanks-colorado-healthcare-workers-with-flyover/

The Arizona Air National Guard aircraft took flight, combining a training mission with a tribute to the nurses and healthcare workers on the front lines of the fight against COVID-19.

Lt. Col. Dean Owen interview, speaks about Nurses Week and involvement in the flight salute as a pilot.

Video:

Aerial footage of the flying training mission over Northern Arizona.

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.

Gen. Brown testifies at CSAF confirmation hearing - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2180422/gen-brown-testifies-at-csaf-confirmation-hearing/

Military Spouse Appreciation Day: A salute to their sacrifices - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2181026/military-spouse-appreciation-day-a-salute-to-their-sacrifices/

Remaining safe, secure, lethal: COVID-19 has nothing on ICBMs - https://www.afgsc.af.mil/News/Features/Display/Article/2179562/remaining-safe-secure-lethal-covid-19-has-nothing-on-icbms/

Whiteman Key Spouses keep families informed - https://www.whiteman.af.mil/News/Article/2180727/whiteman-key-spouses-keep-families-informed/

Airpower demo showcases mission readiness, total force integration - https://www.477fg.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2180582/airpower-demo-showcases-mission-readiness-total-force-integration/

First deployed Airmen return during COVID-19 - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2180805/first-deployed-airmen-return-during-covid-19/

First group of Airmen from Hill’s 34th Fighter Squadron return home - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2180815/first-group-of-airmen-from-hills-34th-fighter-squadron-return-home/

New roles, unexpected challenges for DAFB Battle Staff - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2180521/new-roles-unexpected-challenges-for-dafb-battle-staff/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 7, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 409 (+9) 8 181 (+22) 0

Civilian* 206 (+1) 9 91 (+6) 0

Dependents 245 (+5) 6 (-1) 90 (+5) 0

Contractors 83 (-1) 5 28 1

Total 943 28 390 1

*Corrects previous reports.

May 7, 2020
Air Force nurses and medical technicians are answering our nation’s call, and now more than ever, during this pandemic, we know they are heroes one and all. Featured on the nightly news, nurses and medical technicians are filling manpower gaps in New York and elsewhere, risking their own lives in the process. They are ordinary people, but they are doing extraordinary work. They are integral to the Air Force Medical Service, and against this unseen enemy, they are the Air Force’s strongest and best defense.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2179223/nurse-and-tech-week-heroes-among-us/

The Department of Defense, in conjunction with U.S. Transportation Command, has adopted a set of safety measures and protocols designed to protect military personnel and their families who are required to move household goods t
>https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2177979/dod-department-of-the-air-force-take-steps-to-protect-military-families-moving/

More than 40 Ohio National Guard medical professionals spent 20 days supporting the Federal Correctional Institution Elkton, with medical services and equipment.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369301/ohio-national-guard-front-lines-during-covid-19-pandemic-soldiers-airmen-provide-medical-assistance-federal-prison

New Jersey Air National Guard Senior Airman Juan Rosado, from Newark, N.J., is one of more than 700 New Jersey Guardsmen activated during the COVID-19 pandemic to support the state’s relief effort.

Read more about his story here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369358/newark-airman-proud-serve-his-community

Col. Christopher Baca, the 150th Special Operations Wing Vice Commander, visited Airmen and Soldiers working at the San Juan Regional Medical Cent
ional Guard Joint Task Force response to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Read more about his visit here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369349/150th-special-operations-wing-vice-commander-visits-guardsmen-helping-local-new-mexico-hospital
erica 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:

The 413th Flight Test Group performed an F-15 Eagle flyover in support of "Operation Air Force Salutes" to honor middle Georgia's first responders during the COVID-19 outbreak

Video B-Roll:

C-130 Hercules aircraft from the 120th Airlift Wing, Montana Air National Guard, perform flyovers across Montana, May 6, 2020.

Video B-Roll:

Photos:

148th Fighter Wing Flyover in support of first responders

Video B-Roll:

Photos:

Two C-130 Hercules cargo aircraft from Rosecrans Air National Guard Base flew over medical facilities in the Northwest Missouri region as part of the flyover

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.

Barrett, Raymond discuss Space Force’s status and future; debut new recruiting ad - https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/2178584/barrett-raymond-discuss-space-forces-status-and-future-debut-new-recruiting-ad

Gen Harrigian conducts calls with African counterparts - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Press-Releases/Article/2179155/gen-harrigian-conducts-calls-with-african-counterparts/

JBER airpower demo showcases mission readiness, total force integration - https://www.jber.jb.mil/News/Photos/igphoto/2002295723/

B-1B Lancer conducts training in East China Sea - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2179000/b-1b-lancer-conducts-training-in-east-china-sea/

386th ECES Conducts All-Hazard Response Exercise - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2179385/386th-eces-conducts-all-hazard-response-exercise/

352d SOW conducts open ocean rescue training over the North Sea - he-north-sea/" target="_blank">https://www.afsoc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2173478/352d-sow-conducts-open-ocean-rescue-training-over-the-north-sea/

Travis AFB childcare centers implement safety measures amid pandemic - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2179239/travis-afb-childcare-centers-implement-safety-measures-amid-pandemic/

Air Force Sustainment Center continues hiring through pandemic - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2179307/air-force-sustainment-center-continues-hiring-through-pandemic/

Commentary: Grief and loss during COVID-19 - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2178253/commentary-grief-and-loss-during-covid-19/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 6, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 400 (+3) 8 159 (+5) 0

Civilian* 205 (-2) 9 (-1) 85 (+2) 0

Dependents 240 (+4) 7 85 (+1) 0

Contractors 84 (+1) 5 28 (+5) 1

Total 929 29 357 1

*Corrects previous reports.

May 6, 2020
Performing the Duties of Under Secretary of the Air Force Shon Manasco, along with Vice Chief of Staff of the Air Force Gen. Stephen “Seve” Wilson, and Space Force Vice Commander Lt. Gen. David Thompson, visited Kirtland Air Force Base, New Mexico, May 4, 2020, to observe ongoing efforts during COVID-19 and how operations have adapted to maintain critical mission readiness.

Read more about their visit here: rmen-for-adapta/" target="_blank">https://www.kirtland.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2177413/senior-depa
p>

Airmen assigned to Air Force Reserve Command from various locations within the United States arrived at Ramstein Air Base, Germany, to assist with coronavirus disease 2019 operations from May 2-3. These technicians are responsible for transporting patients primarily out of the United States Central Command area of responsibility where they will receive treatment at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center, Germany. The personnel will form into groups referred to as Transportation Isolation teams.
Read more about their efforts here: https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2177650/covid-19-ops-aeot-provides-lifesaving-support-transfer-to-positive-patients/

Soldiers and Airmen from the Connecticut National Guard work with the state's Department of Public Health to distribute personal protective equipment to nursing homes, hospitals, and first responders on the front line of the battle against COVID-19 crisis at a distribution point in New Haven, Connecticut, May 5, 2020.

See Video B-roll of their efforts here:

Airmen and Soldiers of the New Mexico National Guard Joint Task Force continue to supply food and water to New Mexico communities during the COVID-19 response mission.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369262/water-truckload

Airmen from the 128th Air Refueling Wing, Wisconsin Air National Guard, are being activated to work at mobile testing and specimen collection sites in support of the battle against COVID-19 throughout Wisconsin.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369260/128-arw-airmen-activated-work-mobile-testing-and-specimen-collection-sites-response-covid-19

Lt. Col. Bruce Simpson, the Headquarters Washington Air National Guard’s Force Support director, started his journey in the fight against COVID-19 by supporting the Grand Princess cruise ship quarantine on Marine Corps Air Station Miramar, California in March. By early April, he was on a different COVID-19 mission: supporting the New York City Office of Chief Medical Examiner.

Read more about his efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369243/air-guardsman-helps-nyc-medical-examiner-covid-19-epicenter

Members of the 150th Special Operations Wing fill in anywhere needed during COVID-19 pandemic to ensure that all New Mexicans have what they need. Airmen have worked to provide aid across the state, putting in thousands of collective hours to support our communities.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369264/faces-behind-masked-service

The New Mexico Wing of Civil Air Patrol, the official auxiliary of the U.S. Air Force, transported COVID-19 test kits from a meat packing plant in southern New Mexico to the Scientific Laboratory Division of the state Department of Health in Albuquerque for processing.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.1af.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2177107/first-air-forces-auxiliary-supports-fema-for-covid-19-test-transport/

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:

Airmen from the 187th Fighter Wing perform a flyover in support of "Operation Air Force Salutes" to honor Alabama's first responders during the COVID-19 outbreak.

Video B-Roll (take-off):


Video B-Roll (landing): style=
e adapted to make sure they can continue to execute these missions despite COVID-19.

Virtual ABMS Industry Day seeks innovative, future-focused ideas - https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2177691/virtual-abms-industry-day-seeks-innovative-future-focused-ideas/

Bomber Task Force conducts Baltic mission with B-1 Lancers - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369300/bomber-task-force-conducts-baltic-mission-with-b-1-lancers

Eyes on the Sky: US, Australia collaborate to advance space superiority - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2177532/eyes-on-the-sky-us-australia-collaborate-to-advance-space-superiority/

Magellan mobility allocation planning app gets an upgrade - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2177738/magellan-mobility-allocation-planning-app-gets-an-upgrade/

The 403rd Wing hosts online resilience training - https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/2175202/innovative-resilience-403rd-wing-hosts-online-resilience-training/

The 48th Fighter Wing flying training continues during pandemic - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2177637/48th-fw-flying-training-continues-during-pandemic/

U-2 Phase Maintenance - https://www.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2176297/u-2-phase-maintenance/

Laughlin AFB Airman writes "Letters to Lackland" - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2177240/laughlin-airman-writes-letters-to-lackland/

The Weekly Grit - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2177056/the-weekly-grit/

Agile contracting team delivers COVID-19 protection to Airmen - https://www.afimsc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2177266/agile-contracting-team-delivers-covid-19-protection-to-airmen/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 5, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 154 (+4) 0

Civilian 207 (+2) 10 83 (+7) 0

Dependents 236 7 84 (+4) 0

Contractors 83 (+1) 5 23 (+2) 1

Total 923 30 344 1

May 5, 2020
A nine-person Polish military medical team is assisting Illinois National Guard members with COVID-19 response efforts, sharing insights gained from dealing with the outbreak in Europe. The Illinois Guard and the Polish military are partners in the Defense Department’s State Partnership Program, a program that teams National Guard elements with partner nations worldwide. Read more about this partnership here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2175745/polish-medical-team-illinois-guard-side-by-side-in-covid-19-response/

Airmen assigned to the 62nd Aerial Port Squadron unit operating out of the Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SeaTac) Air Mobility Command Passenger Terminal have implemented a new procedure to ensure the safety of their workers and the passengers who are required to travel during the pandemic. Read more about this new screening process here: https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2176728/62nd-aps-airmen-conduct-new-covid-19-screening-at-seatac/

Senior Airman Ruben Rios, a reservist from the 514th Air Mobility Wing and New York City Fire Department firefighter, writes about his fight and recovery from COVID-19. Read more about his story here: https://www.514amw.afrc.af.mil/News/Articles/Article/2174277/not-today-covid/

The 86th Maintenance Group leads the charge for the C-130 Hercules community in procuring ion distribution units to ensure the safety of aircrews, passengers and Airmen working in and around the aircraft. An ion distribution unit uses bipolar ionization technology to replicate nature’s cleaning process, creating positive and negative ions from hydrogen and oxygen molecules in water vapor in the air. This process deactivates airborne and surface viruses and allergens. Read more about their efforts here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2174971/86th-mxg-expanding-aeromedical-evacuation-capabilities/

Medical professionals are dealing with a surge in patients needed treatment, the general public is dawning face masks and some states are on lockdown. In the wake of changes implemented to stop the spread of COVID-19, a small yet highly capable Reserve Medical Unit in the Florida Panhandle is making significant contributions in the fight against the pandemic. Read more about this unit here: https://www.919sow.afrc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2172508/fighting-the-invisible-enemy/

Airmen and Soldiers assigned to the Pennsylvania Task Force South working at their Joint Emergency Operations Center continue to plan for missions in support the Montgomery County COVID-19 testing site with medical staff, nursing home medical staff relief, and logistics support ranging from medical PPE or food deliveries to their area of operations.See photos of their efforts here: g>

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:

910th Airlift Wing, two-Ship, C-130 Hercules, Air Force Salute flyover of Northeast Ohio and Western Pennsylvania hospitals

Video:

97th Air Mobility Wing in Photos: Altus Air Force Base, Vance Air Force Base Airmen ‘salute’ Oklahomans fighting COVID-19

Photos: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2175606/97-amw-in-photos-altus-vance-airmen-salute-oklahomans-fighting-covid-19/

Sheppard Air Force Base salutes area COVID-19 frontline fighters with Spirit Over Texoma story and photos: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2175154/sheppard-salutes-area-covid-19-frontline-fighters-with-spirit-over-texoma/

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.

21st Space Wing enlisted keep critical USSF asset training churning during worldwide pandemic - https://www.spaceforce.mil/News/Article/2175737/21-sw-enlisted-keep-critical-ussf-asset-training-churning-during-worldwide-panda href="https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2175881/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-instructor-pilot-during-covid-19/" target="_blank">https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2175881/a-day-in-the-life-of-an-instructor-pilot
19 prevention measures during deployment in-processing -

19th Airlift Wing aids in AFSOC jump training - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2176722/19th-aw-aids-in-afsoc-jump-training/

Air Force SERE modernizes training - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2169509/air-force-sere-modernizes-training/

12th Aircraft Maintenance Squadron keeps Texans flying - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2176282/12th-aircraft-maintenance-squadron-keeps-texans-flying/

Loadmaster duo keeps the family flying tradition - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369183/loadmaster-duo-keeps-family-flying-traditionMilitary recruiting goes virtual in an innovative new campaign - https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369185/military-recruiting-goes-virtual-innovative-new-campaign

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 4, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 391 (+3) 8 150 (+5) 0

Civilian 205 (+4) 10 (-1) 76 (+3) 0

Dependents 236 (+2) 7 80 0

Contractors 82 (+1) 5 (-1) 21 1

Total 914 30 327 1

May 4, 2020
Air chiefs and leadership representing 19 air forces across five continents came together for a video teleconference hosted by Gen. CQ Brown, Jr., Pacific Air Forces commander, April 29, 2020. Discussion focused on sharing lessons learned regarding COVID-19 response, desires for resuming engagement and exercises in a post COVID world, and a commitment to continued cooperation across the Indo-Pacific region.

Read more about this conference here: nk">https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2174087/virtual-conference-unites-19-air-forces-on-pandemic-response/

Culminating with an in-flight demonstration on April 30, 2020, the Negatively Pressurized Conex proof of concept prototype successfully proved its capability to potentially transport individuals with infectious diseases, such as COVID-19. Air Force Materiel Command and Air Mobility Command leaders quickly joined forces in early April to invite creative materiel and non-materiel solutions to address a Joi
d the need for that capability arise.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2174710/npc-determined-to-be-a-successful-proof-of-concept/

Air Force Reserve, active-duty and Air National Guard civil engineers are maintaining a recently built tent city at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas to support basic military trainee and technical training student housing.

Read more about this effort here: htt
g-tent-city-during-covid-19-cris/

Members of the New York Air National Guard don assist the City of New York Office of the Chief Medical Examiner in recovering the deceased in New York City. New York National Guard members are supporting the multi-agency response to COVID-19.

See photos of their efforts here:

Sixty-two days after the first New Yorker was diagnosed with COVID-19, and 55 days after being called to duty to help contain the pandemic, the New York National Guard has 3,629 personnel on duty.

Read the update on their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369112/ny-national-guard-delivers-45-million-meals-half-million-test-kits-62-days-coronavirus-response

Guard and Reserve Airmen from three wings, come together to run a COVID-19 testing facility with Riverside County and California Medical Assistant Team-Indio at the Riverside County Fair and National Date Festival grounds, Indio, California.

Watch the video here:

B-roll package:

Staff Sgt. Jacob Rader, an operations intelligence analyst, 110th Operations Group, Battle Creek Air National Guard Base, Michigan, has come up with a way to provide comfort to those on the front line by using a 3D printer to create face shields.

Read more about his effort here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/369110/michigan-airman-provides-ppe-frontline-workers

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Airmen from the 175th Wing, Maryland Air National Guard are assisting the Maryland Office of Preparedness and Response with receiving, organizing and arranging delivery of medical PPE and life-saving ventilators to local hospitals and county health departments.

Watch video of their efforts here:

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:

B-52s and F-15s fly over New Orleans in support of frontline COVID-19 responders

Photos:

Luke AFB, Arizona ANG salute Phoenix

Photos:

The 123rd Airlift Wing, Kentucky Air National Guard

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.

B-1B Lancers return to Indo-Pacific for bomber task force deployment - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2173296/b-1b-lancers-return-to-indo-pacific-for-bomber-task-force-deployment/

Air Postal Squadron delivers across largest AOR despite COVID-19 disruptions - https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2174069/air-postal-squadron-delivers-across-largest-aor-despite-covid-19-disruptions/

Eight EAMS Airmen execute rapid global mobility during COVID-19 pandemic - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2174214/8-eams-airmen-execute-rapid-global-mobility-during-covid-19-pandemic/

514th FLTS starts ‘taxi service’ to support aircraft deliveries for the warfighter - https://www.afrc.af.mil/News/Article/2173872/514th-flts-starts-taxi-service-to-support-aircraft-deliveries-for-the-warfighter/

57th WPS continues C-17 Weapons Instructor Course at JBLM - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2174712/57th-wps-continues-c-17-weapons-instructor-course-at-jblm/

Whiteman AFB, Missouri EOD Airmen continue to train and respond amid the coronavirus pandemic - ng>https://www.whiteman.af.mil/News/Article/2173774/whiteman-eod-airmen-continue-to-train-and-respond-amid-the-coronavirus-pandemic/
News/Article/2173671/mobile-medics/" target="_blank">https://www.warren.af.mil/News/Article/2173671/mobile-medics/

67th
th-aircraft-maintenance-unit" target="_blank">

Flight Medicine clinic covers wide variety of medical necessities for Saber Nation - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2174573/flight-medicine-clinic-covers-wide-variety-of-medical-necessities-for-saber-nat/

COVID-19 ops; 721 APS maintains readiness - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2174564/covid-19-ops-721-aps-maintains-readiness/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., May 3, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 388 (+21) 8 145 (+11) 0

Civilian 205 (+4) 11 73 (+1) 0

Dependents 234 (+6) 7 80 (+3) 0

Contractors 81 (+2) 6 (+1) 21 (+1) 1

Total 908 32 319 1

* These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on May 1st.

May 1, 2020
Secretary of the Air Force Barbara M. Barrett visited Hill Air Force Base April 30 in order to get a firsthand look at critical mission activities here and how the base was operating under current restrictions due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic.

Read more about her visit here: https://www.hill.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2172850/secaf-tours-hill-missions-to-view-operational-capabilities-during-pandemic/

Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. David L. Goldfein and Chief Master Sgt. of the Air Force Kaleth O. Wright visited Task Force-Southeast April 30 to see first-hand how the unit is supporting the whole-of-government approach to the Department of Defense’s response to COVID-19.

Read more about their visit here: https://www.9af.acc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2172185/top-air-force-leaders-vision-realized-with-stand-up-of-tf-southeast/

Performing the duties of the Undersecretary of the Air Force, Shon Manasco visited Vance Air Force Base, Ohio, to observe pilot training operations. Vance AFB gave the undersecretary a first-hand look at how the pilot training pipeline has been impacted by COVID-19, and how operations have continued through innovation and dedication to the mission.

Read more about his visit here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2172560/acting-undersecretary-visits-vance-to-observe-covid-19-impact-on-pilot-training/

When the tasking came to support the United States’ whole-of-government response to COVID-19 and what would become the first operational deployment of the Transport Isolation System, the 521st Air Mobility Operations Wing answered the call. The wing and its Airmen, who are forward deployed on behalf of Air Mobility Command, are spread across nine countries and 17 locations, spanning more than 5,135 miles, making it possible to employ the right effect at the right place at the right time.

Learn more about the Airmen of the 521st AMOW here: https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2171381/521st-amow-works-behind-the-scenes-to-execute-global-mobility-operations/

Officials at Air Force Global Strike Command responsible for two-thirds of the nation’s nuclear weapons enlisted a new partner in the fight against COVID-19—academia and industry. Through a partnership with the Cyber Innovation Center, Louisiana Tech University, and Virtualitics Inc., they officials rapidly developed a daily report consisting of infection rate projections based on a COVID-19 Susceptible, Exposed, Infected, Resistant (SEIR) model.

Learn more about the effort here: https://www.afgsc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2171749/nuclear-command-leverages-academia-industry-data-in-covid-19-fight/

During this time of continued Air Force Innovation, the T-7A Test Team of the Air Force’s new pilot trainer, the T-7A Red Hawk, has developed innovative ways to mainta
-7A Test Program. The T-7A Test Team executed Distributed Test Operations (DTO) in a Mission Control Room at Ridley Mission Control Center at Edwards Air Force Base, California on April 30.

Read more about this expanded test capability here: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2172547/edwards-expands-test-capabilities-with-t-7a-distributed-test-operations/

A workforce of 12 Airmen from the 58th Operations Support Squadron sewed more than 1,775 face coverings for the 58th Special Operations Wing (and its units geographically separated) and 200 for the 377th Air Base Wing Airmen living in the dorms on Kirtland Air Force Base.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.kirtland.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2171285/58th-sow-airmen-apply-job-skills-to-make-2000-face-coverings/

New York National Guard Soldiers, Airmen and active duty and civilian medical providers on duty fighting COVID-19 in New York City are getting the benefit of a wagging tail and licks to lift their spirits.

Read more about this partnership here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368786/covid-19-response-troops-go-dogs-stress-relief

The front lines of the California National Guard Joint Task Force 115 response to COVID-19 includes supporting food banks, medical equipment logistics and operations of shelters. One team providing critical support from behind the scenes is the J1 section. They are the personnel tracking manpower, processing orders for state activations and ensuring individuals in the COVID-19 fight are taken care of while activated.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368923/jtf-115-j1-providing-manpower-continuity-fight-against-covid-19

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.

Thinking ahead: Agility Prime kicks off - https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2172755/thinking-ahead-agility-prime-kicks-off/

Team Whiteman bands together to continue the mission - https://www.whiteman.af.mil/News/Article/2170652/team-whiteman-bands-together-to-continue-the-mission/

Defender life savers - https://www.warren.af.mil/News/Article/2171480/defender-life-savers/

820th BDG maintains readiness during COVID-19 -

Support Where You Need It -

97 AMW Childcare providers step up to support parents - https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2172549/97-amw-childcare-providers-step-up-to-support-parents/

Continuing the mission during COVID-19 - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2172358/continuing-the-mission-during-covid-19/

Refueling German allies - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2172312/refueling-german-allies/

52 OSS Weather Flight storm through COVID-19 pandemic - https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2172314/52-oss-weather-flight-storm-through-covid-19-pandemic/

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., April 30, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 367 (+4) 8 134 (+3) 0

Civilian 201 (+6) 11 72 (+3) 0

Dependents 228 (+4) 7 77 (+3) 0

Contractors 78 (+1) 5 20 1

Total 874 31 303 1

April 30, 2020
The Honorable Shon Manasco, performing the duties of undersecretary of the Air Force, visited the Oklahoma City Air Logistics Complex, April 29 to observe how the Air Force Sustainment Center continues to meet the needs of the warfighter while overcoming challenges brought on by the coronavirus pandemic.

Read more about his visit here: https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2170752/under-secretary-manasco-visits-tinker-afb/

To support the global fight against COVID-19, the Air Force Research Laboratory quickly stood up an aircraft decontamination team pooling bioenvironmental, aircraft materials and medical experts from across the laboratory who’ve assessed a variety of aircraft decontamination support solutions.

Read more about this effort here: https://www.wpafb.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2168866/afrl-aircraft-decontamination-team-ramps-up-battle-against-covid-19/

The Air Force Research Laboratory is leveraging tactics from the Air Force pararescue (PJ) community, employing a new tool that can monitor multiple patients’ vital signs, helping to alleviate the lean doctor-to-patient ratio that many medical facilities are facing amidst COVID-19. The solution is a medical monitoring tool called the Battlefield Assisted Trauma Distributed Observation Kit, or BATDOK. The original version of this tool has been under evaluation by military medics for about four years and was deployed operationally about a year ago.

Learn more about the effort here: https://www.wpafb.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2168975/afrl-adapts-pj-tactics-for-covid-19-monitoring/

Within weeks of the pandemic’s spread, Brooke Army Medical Center at Joint Base San Antonio-Fort Sam Houston, Texas drew on its deep bench of research expertise and joined the global race to find a COVID-19 treatment.

Learn more about the effort here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2171305/bamc-lends-research-expertise-to-global-pandemic-effort/

As many face hardship during the COVID-19 pandemic, Joint Base Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii, Airmen are helping the local community. Tech. Sgt. David Westerdale, 8th Intelligence Squadron Electronic Intelligency Analysis non-commissioned officer in charge, is leading the JB Pearl Harbor-Hickam effort. So far, Westerdale collected 588 pounds of food, cleaning supplies, masks and toiletries, as well as $700 in donations.

Read more about his efforts here: https://www.pacaf.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2169959/airmen-support-local-hawaiian-community-during-covid-19/

Airmen and Soldiers with the California National Guard regional medical support teams are currently assisting skilled nursing facilities at ten sites in Los Angeles County. The medical support teams each consist of an eight-person team with physician’s assistant or a registered nurse, medical technicians, and one medical administrator. The Soldiers and Airmen on the teams are performing a variety of missions at each facility.

Read more about their efforts here: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/368817/cal-guard-assisting-additional-skilled-nursing-facilities-los-angeles-county

Airmen and Soldiers with the Montana National Guard build an alternative care facility at the MetraPark in Billings, Montana. The mobile modular temporary healthcare facility can be transported anywhere in the state depending on medical necessity.

See Video B-Roll of their efforts here:

See Video interviews here:


B-1 Lancers from the 28th Bomb Wing will conduct flyovers at facilities in Sturgis, Rapid City and Hot Springs, South Dakota, May 1 to honor healthcare workers on the front lines of the war on the 2019 Novel Coronavirus (COVID-19). The flyovers, allowed as part of an approved training mission, are part of the Air Force Salutes initiative designed to show appreciation to the countless heroes around the world battling COVID-19.

Read more about Ellsworth Air Force Base's upcoming flyovers here: https://www.ellsworth.af.mil/Press-Releases/Article/2168650/ellsworth-to-honor-healthcare-professionals-with-b-1-flyovers-may-1/

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:

The 509th Bomb Wing and 442nd Fighter Wing joined force to perform Air Force Salutes flyover across Kansas City, Sedalia and Warrensburg, Missouri area hospitals.

Story: https://www.whiteman.af.mil/News/Article/2170145/whitemansaluteskc-wows-thousands-thanks-medical-professionals-healthcare-worker/

Photos and video: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/509BWPA-WAFB

The 403rd Wing's 815th Airlift Squadron flies by the 81st Medical Group at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi.

Video:

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 1 p.m., March 29, 2020:

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 164 (+59) 11 (+2) 7 (+3) 0

Civilian 57 (+21) 4 (-1) 3 (+2) 0

Dependents 41 (+10) 4 (+2) 2 0

Contractors 15 (+4) 3 (+1) 0 0

Total 277 22 12 0

Numbers in parenthesis are updated cases.
*These numbers include all of the cases that were reported since our last update on March 27th.

March 27, 2020
Department of the Air Force Senior Leaders have released the following updates on COVID-19 operations. You can view/download the following videos here.

Secretary of the Air Force Barbara M. Barrett -

Air Force Chief of Staff General David L. Goldfein -

Chief of Space Operations Gen John W. “Jay” Raymond -

On March 26, Air Education and Training Command announced that basic military training will adjust schedules and locations in order to sustain mission readiness. In order to ensure the health and safety of trainees and instructors and to preserve dorm capacity, new recruits will be brought in based on a four-week repeating cycle that includes stringent restricted movement guidelines, dedicated time for deep cleaning between rotations, resetting the instructor cadre and the testing of an alternate BMT location at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi.

You can read the full article on this new revised approach here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2127647/air-force-bmt-adjusts-schedules-locations-to-sustain-mission-readiness/

The Air Force has adjusted how we report the total number of COVID-19 Positive Cases in order to align with DoD reporting.

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 9 p.m., March 26, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 105 (+13) 9 (+2) 4 (+1) 0

Civilian 36 (+6) 5 (+2) 1 0

Dependents 31 (+4) 2 (+1) 2 (+2) 0

Contractors 11 (+1) 2 (+1) 0 0

Total 183 18 7 0

Numbers in parenthesis are updated cases.

March 26, 2020
Today, Gen. Arnold W. Bunch, Jr., Air Force Materiel Command commander, provided an COVID-19 mission update. You can read his statement here:

https://www.afmc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2126538/afmc-commander-provides-covid-19-mission-update/

All Department of the Air Force installations have been directed to move to and implement HPCON Charlie measures by the Secretary of Defense. You can read the transcript of the press conference where that was announced here: https://www.defense.gov/Newsroom/Transcripts/Transcript/Article/2125842/department-of-defense-press-briefing-by-deputy-assistant-to-the-secretary-for-m/

Yesterday, at the request of the U.S. Department of State and at the direction of U.S. Southern Command, a U.S. Air Force C-130J Super Hercules transported 78 U.S. citizens from Soto Cano Air Base, Honduras, who were previously unable to return home, to Naval Air Station Norfolk, Virginia. The C-130J is part of a regular resupply mission to Soto Cano AB. The return flight also included mission-critical U.S. service members.

Here is the link to the release: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2126650/jtf-bravo-facilitates-repatriation-of-us-citizens-from-honduras/

Link to additional imagery: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/365896/jtf-bravo-facilitates-repatriation-us-citizens-honduras

Yesterday, Air Force officials are announced the first restriction of movement or ROM trainee in the Air Force’s basic military training at Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland tested positive for COVID-19. The trainee reported to BMT March 18 and was immediately put into the ROM location, along with about 40 other new trainees. Once the trainee showed symptoms, the trainee was isolated from other ROM trainees in order to protect the health and safety of all Airmen in the training pipeline.

You can read Air Education and Training Command’s statement here: https://www.aetc.af.mil/News/Article/2125674/air-force-restriction-of-movement-trainee-tests-positive-for-covid-19/

The Air Force has adjusted how we report the total number of COVID-19 Positive Cases in order to align with DOD reporting.

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 11 p.m., March 25, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 92 (+37) 7 (+1) 3 (+2) 0

Civilian 30 (+9) 3 (+1) 1 0

Dependents 27 (+11) 1 0 0

Contractors 10 1 0 0

Total 159 12 4 0

Numbers in parenthesis are updated cases.

March 25, 2020

The Air Force has adjusted how we report the total number of COVID-19 Positive Cases in order to align with DOD reporting.

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 7 p.m., March 24, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 55 (+12) 6 (+1) 1 0

Civilian 21 (+8) 2 (+1) 1 0

Dependents 16 (-2)* 1 (-1)** 0 0

Contractors 5 1 0 0

Total 97 10 2 0

Numbers in parenthesis are updated cases.
* Changes due to erroneous previous reporting of retiree dependent and other service dependent
** Changes due to Air Force no longer reporting retiree dependents.

March 24, 2020

In response to COVID-19, Dr. William Roper, assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition, technology and logistics, has released the following statement to publicly recognize the challenges, and confirm our ongoing efforts to overcome new challenges.

You can read his full statement here: https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2123182/a-statement-from-dr-roper-on-covid-19/

The Air Force has adjusted how we report the total number of COVID-19 Positive Cases in order to align with DOD reporting.

Air Force Totals of COVID-19 Positive Cases as of 7 p.m., March 23, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 43 (+9) 5 (+1) 1 (+1) 0

Civilian 13 1 (+1) 1 0

Dependents 18 (+6) 2 (+1) 0 0

Contractors 5 4 0 0

Total 79 9 2 0

Numbers in parenthesis are updated cases.

March 23, 2020
On March 22nd Air Mobility Command announced that it had temporarily suspended most Space-Available travel aboard AMC and contracted aircraft, except for certain Category I, IV, and VI travel, effective March 21, in order to limit COVID-19’s spread and its impact on the force. The temporary suspension remains in effect through May 11.

Read the full announcement here: https://www.robins.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2121665/air-mobility-command-temporarily-suspends-most-space-a-travel-due-to-covid-19/

On March 22, an 86th Airlift Wing C-130J Super Hercules out of Ramstein Air Base, Germany, transported an En-Route Patient Staging System (ERPSS) to Aviano Air Base, Italy, for delivery to the Italian Ministry of Defense. This mobile, or fixed system, provides 10 patient holding/staging beds and can support a maximum throughput of 40 patients in a 24-hour period. This was done in close coordination with the Department of State and at the request of the Italian government to assist with Italy’s COVID-19 response efforts.

AFPIMS: https://www.usafe.af.mil/News/Press-Releases/Article/2121078/usafe-supports-italy-covid-19-response/

DVIDS: https://www.dvidshub.net/news/365653/usafe-supports-italy-covid-19-response

For additional questions please reach out to USAFE-AFAFRICA Public Affairs at +49 (0) 6371-47-6558.

On Friday Evening, March 20, Maj. Mark Graff at Air Mobility Command released the following statement regarding the their participation in transporting members of the U.S. women’s football team from Honduras.

“This morning, in coordination with U.S. Southern Command and the U.S. Embassy Tegucigalpa, a U.S. Air Force C-17 Globemaster III returned to the United States from Honduras’ Soto Cano Air Base with about half of the members of the U.S. women’s football team. Tonight, the remaining members of the women’s football team will arrive at Joint Base Charleston, South Carolina on a U.S. Air Force C-130 Hercules. Through its active, Reserve, and Air National Guard components, Air Mobility Command stands ready to do everything possible to mitigate the effects of COVID-19 and ensure we continue executing rapid global mobility operations in support of the DHHS-led whole-of-government effort to combat the Coronavirus outbreak.”

You can find imagery here:

Video

The Air Force will be adjusting how we report the total number of COVID-19 Positive Cases in order to align with DOD reporting.

Air Force totals as of 9 p.m., March 22.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 34 (+16) 4 (-1) 0 0

Civilian 13 (+8) 0 (-1) 1 0

Dependents 12 1 (-1) 0 0

Contractors 5 (+1) 1 0 0

Total 64 6 1 0

Numbers in parenthesis are updated cases.

March 20, 2020
An active duty member who works for Defense Health Agency, Falls Church, Virginia, tested positive for COVID-19. Although his duty station was in Falls Church, the individual was last in the Pentagon on March 16 for less than an hour and has since received medical treatment and self-quarantined at home.

Military public health and local civilian public health officials have notified those in which the individual came in contact. All have been asked to adhere to Centers for Disease Control guidance.

We continue to ask our personnel to take actions to protect themselves and those around them by employing protective measures including practicing good hygiene, social distancing and taking appropriate actions if experiencing symptoms of an illness. These measures can dramatically decrease the risk of infection and slow COVID-19’s spread.

A defense contractor who works for the Air Force in the Pentagon has tested positive for COVID-19. The last time the infected member was in the Pentagon was March 2. The individual has received medical treatment and has been self-quarantined at home since March 7.

Air Force leadership has notified the contractor’s fellow workers and they are being asked to adhere to Centers for Disease Control guidance, maximize telework and social distancing, and practice good hygiene.

Recently, the contractor worked at the Total Force Integration Symposium at Joint Base Andrews, Maryland, March 3-6. The individual did not have symptoms during the event. The Air Force sent an email to attendees informing them of the positive test.

The Virginia Department of Health has provided a “low risk rating” based on the individual being asymptomatic at the symposium.

We continue to ask our personnel to take actions to protect themselves and those around them by employing protective measures including practicing good hand washing, social distancing, and taking appropriate actions if feeling sick. These can dramatically decrease the risk of infection and slow COVID-19’s spread.

On March 19, Air Mobility Command transported the second shipment of 15 short tons of approximately 500,000 testing swabs, again aboard a C-17 Globemaster II from Aviano Air Base to Memphis, where it was turned over to Fed Ex for further dissemination across the United States. Additional missions are projected to meet Department of Health and Human Services requirements.

Photos can be found here:
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Videos are available here: https://www.dvidshub.net/unit/AMCPA?fbclid=IwAR1hkKnWUaG79QDIClp9nazeOKNc9kukU2_3gskbMr7O_f6A_iIZSfulOn

For additional questions please reach out to Air Mobility Command Public Affairs at 618-229-7804.

The Air Force will be adjusting how we report the total number of COVID-19 Positive Cases in order to align with DOD reporting.

Air Force Totals as of 4:30 a.m., March 20, 2020.

CASES HOSPITALIZED RECOVERED DEATHS

Military 16 5 0 0

Civilian 5 1 0 0

Dependents 12 2 0 0

Contractors 4 1 1 0

Total 37 9 1 0

March 16, 2020

Since March 13th, the following bases are monitoring the following based on positive COVID-19 cases.

Travis Air Force Base, California is currently monitoring two positive cases of COVID-19 – one for an active-duty Airman, and one for a dependent of a service member.

Moody Air Force Base, Georgia has an active-duty member undergoing evaluation and treatment following a presumptive positive COVID-19 test.

Maxwell-Gunter Air Force Base, Alabama has a civilian employee who undergoing evaluation and treatment following a confirmed result for COVID-19.

In an effort to minimize the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 and to prioritize the health and safety of Department of the Air Force personnel, the following modifications have been made:

Department of Air Force personnel who work on the Pentagon Reservation have been authorized to telework when the mission allows in order to disperse the workforce during the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. The Department of the Air Force will continue to do our part to mitigate the spread of COVID-19 as we protect the health of our personnel while ensuring complete readiness to defend our nation.

Headquarters Air Mobility Command to adjust operations to address COVID-19 concerns - https://www.amc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2113368/headquarters-amc-adjusts-operations-to-address-covid-19-concerns/

Based on the March 13th Department of Defense Guidance Memo, Air University has asked all students attending Squadron Officer School and Senior Non-Commissions Officer Academy to return to their home stations.

For additional Air Force related information concerning the new coronavirus please reference the following website: https://www.af.mil/News/Coronavirus-Disease-2019/

March 15, 2020
On March 14, 2020, the White House announced that Proclamation 9993 (Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Certain Additional Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus) will now include the United Kingdom and the Republic of Ireland. As of March 13, 2020, the World Health Organization reported that the United Kingdom had 594 cases of COVID-19, five times more cases than there were 7 days prior.

The presidential proclamations regarding novel coronavirus restrict certain travel and entry to and from China, Iran, South Korea, United Kingdom, Ireland, and the European Schengen area.

According to the White House, an effective date, to begin implementation of certain travel restrictions, limitations, and exceptions, for the United Kingdom and Ireland is March 16, 2020, at 11:59 p.m. Eastern Daylight Time. The CDC has raised England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland (Ireland) to Level 3. More info here: https://wwwnc.cdc.gov/travel/notices/warning/coronavirus-united-kingdom-ireland.

The travel restrictions that apply to CDC Travel Health Notices Level 3 (COVID-19) designated locations from the SecDef memorandum dated 11 March 2020, Travel Restrictions for DOD Components in Response to Coronavirus Disease 2019 now apply to England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, and Republic of Ireland (Ireland). More personnel travel guidance along with FAQ will be released as they become available. For further questions please contact your chain of command or local Military Personnel Flight. In addition, the Total Force Service Center can be reached at 800-525-0102. A TFSC technician is available 24/7 to take your call.

For additional Air Force related information concerning the new coronavirus please reference the following website: https://www.af.mil/News/Coronavirus-Disease-2019/

March 13, 2020
In an effort to minimize the spread of Coronavirus Disease 2019 and to prioritize the health and safety of Department of the Air Force personnel, the following modifications have been made:

• The Air Force finalized their guidance for personnel movements based off of Secretary Esper’s guidance dated March 11. You can find more information here: https://www.afpc.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2111282/dod-directs-stop-movement-in-response-to-covid-19/
• Department of the Air Force is suspending all outreach activities and support to community events through May 15. This includes, but is not limited to, on-base and civilian sponsored air shows, band performances and community engagements and meetings. This decision does not preclude our leaders from meeting or coordinating with local and community officials.
• The United States Air Force Academy made the decision to begin orderly dismissal of a large segment of their Cadet population. The goal of this action is to maximize the chances of graduating their senior class on time.
• The United States Air Force School of Aerospace Medicine Epidemiology Laboratory has begun receiving potential COVID-19 samples from military treatment facilities (MTFs) around the world. MTFs collect samples per CDC guidelines and send them to the Epi Reference Lab or local public health lab to conduct the CDC-approved test. Any presumptive positive test is then confirmed by the CDC per guidelines. The USAFSAM Epi Lab enters all information from the tested samples into the appropriate medical system for medical decision making, and the also sends daily updates to DHA for oversight.

For additional Air Force related information concerning coronavirus please reference the following website: https://www.af.mil/News/Coronavirus-Disease-2019/

March 12, 2020
An active-duty Airman assigned to Altus Air Force Base, Oklahoma, is currently undergoing evaluation and treatment following a presumptive positive novel coronavirus test. The Airman recently traveled to Seattle. Additionally, a contractor at Moody Air Force Base tested positive for the virus.

In an effort to minimize the spread of COVID-19  and to prioritize the health and safety of Department of the Air Force personnel, the following modifications have been made:
• The March Air Reserve Base air show scheduled for March 28-29 has been cancelled.
• Air University’s Officer Training School has suspended guest presence at the awards ceremony and graduation parade; individual commissioning ceremonies will continue
• No spectators will be allowed at United States Air Force Academy home games; the academy is closed to visitors.

Download Air Force COVID-19 Information Handout

March 10, 2020
• At the United States Air Force Academy, official travel outside of the United States has been restricted for cadets, cadet candidates and permanent party. Personal/leisure travel to countries with a CDC Level 2 or higher rating is also prohibited. As of now, restrictions will remain in place through the end of March.
• Air Force Basic Military Training has suspended family members from attending graduation until further notice.
• Since South by Southwest events in Austin, Texas, was cancelled, the Air Force’s Spark Collider and Pitch Bowl will now take place virtually, March 12.
• The Buckley Air Force Base, Colorado Child Development Center has been closed for cleaning since a parent (family member) tested positive by the state for coronavirus.
• All Department of the Air Force personnel have been directed to follow Center for Disease Control levels for travel guidance.

Additionally, the following bases are currently housing passengers from the Grand Princess cruise ship: Travis Air Force Base, California Joint Base San Antonio, Texas and Dobbins Air Reserve Base, Georgia.

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