My old service has an officer assigned in Anchorage that advises the Governor of Alaska on key issues. No other governor in the nation has such a relationship with the agency. She gets briefed on things that Biden and the other bozos in congress have no clue about. Alaska's unique role in our national security and homeland defense system will be a shocker for the public as this all rolls out. She will have Biden for lunch.

Alaska is the first line of defense in our missile interceptor defense system. The 49th Missile Defense Battalion of the Alaska National Guard is the unit that protects the entire nation from ballistic missile attacks. It's on permanent active duty, unlike other Guard units.

As governor of Alaska, Palin is briefed on highly classified military issues, homeland security, and counterterrorism. Her exposure to classified material may rival even Biden's.

She's also the commander in chief of the Alaska State Defense Force (ASDF), a federally recognized militia incorporated into Homeland Security's counterterrorism plans.

Palin is privy to military and intelligence secrets that are vital to the entire country's defense. Given Alaska's proximity to Russia, she may have security clearances we don't even know about.

According to the Washington Post, she first met with McCain in February, but nobody ever found out. This is a woman used to keeping secrets.

She can be entrusted with our national security, because she already is.

PT. MUGU, CA – We have security systems in airports, courthouses and even in some shopping centers, but the world’s coastlines are some of the least protected parts of the world. At least 90 percent of all commerce must move through coastal waters. About three-quarters of the world’s population lives close to a shore. But many of the world’s governments leave this commerce and these people largely unprotected.
On Sept. 23 and 24, the Center for Asymmetric Warfare will welcome dozens of national and international experts to what is being called the Littoral Dominance Center of Excellence Roundtable. For two days, the experts will take important steps in securing our coastal waters. They will attempt to define the subjective issue of “securing our maritime borders” as an objective problem, “what resources are required to increase our littoral interceptions to 85 percent of all interception missions”.
The Center for Asymmetric Warfare is housed on Naval Base Ventura County. Its executive director and founder is Dr. David Banks of Santa Paula, Ca. It is affiliated with the Naval Post-graduate School. CAW conducts extensive assessment, testing and training for government agencies and private businesses who want to be prepared for “an asymmetric event.” That can be anything from a natural disaster to a terrorist attack.
CAW is now establishing the Littoral Dominance Center of Excellence. This center will focus particularly on researching, testing concepts and teaching government agencies and independent companies how to protect their waters. Craig Powell of Thousand Oaks, a former Navy SEAL and manager of the Littoral Dominance Center, said, “We (all countries other than Singapore) have insignificant resources such as sniffing ships, off shore TSA-like screener or a response force to give the minimal capacity to interdict the movement of illicit contraband in coastal waters.”
And yet, Powell said the world is filled with examples of where the failure to control coastlines is wreaking havoc. Pirates boarded a cruise ship off the coast of Somalia in November 2005 and robbed tourists on vacation. Pirate consistently attack commercial ships navigating the Straits of Malacca, the shipping cannel linking the Indian and Pacific Oceans. Throughout the world there is a steady movement of illegal contraband from immigrants, protected animals, plants, minerals (blood diamonds), natural resources, diseases to technology, weapons, funds, asylum seekers, terrorist.
Representatives are expected from the State Department, Department of Homeland Security, Department of Defense, Department of Justice and the United States Coast Guard. In addition, the nations of Singapore and Canada, among others, are expected to send representatives.

Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Spc. Marques I. Knight, of San Juan Capistrano, CA:

“Specialist Marques Knight fought bravely to defend the freedoms we hold dear and his service to this country will always be remembered. His courage in the face of battle and loyalty to his fellow soldiers is an inspiration to all Californians. Maria and I extend our deepest sympathies to Marques’ family and friends as they mourn this terrible loss.”

Knight, 24, died Sept. 6, in Aliabad, Afghanistan, of wounds suffered when he received small arms fire while on dismounted patrol. He was assigned to the 1st Battalion, 26th Infantry Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, U.S. Army, Fort Hood, TX.

In honor of Spc. Knight, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

Phillip Diaz with shipmates.
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USS McFaul in Georgia.
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2004 Fillmore High School graduate Phillip Diaz, is getting a firsthand view of U.S. humanitarian aid efforts in Georgia. United States Navy Information Technician 2nd Class Phillip C. Diaz, 22, is aboard the USS McFaul, which pulled into the port of Batumi, Georgia, Sunday, August 24th, in the Black Sea. The guided-missile destroyer was the first U.S. warship to bring aid to Georgia and was loaded with nearly 55 tons of supplies; bottled water, baby wipes, baby food, blankets and more and anchored in the port of Batumi, Georgia. The USS McFaul’s arrival puts the U.S. Navy in close proximity to Russia’s Black Sea fleet based in the Ukranian port of Sevastopol. The McFaul is the first Navy ship to arrive in the Black Sea with aid relief. The USS Mount Whitney and the U.S. Coast Guard Cutter Dallas have also been sent to assist. The relief is needed after Russian troops occupied parts of Georgia for nearly two weeks following Georgia's Aug. 7 attack to retake South Ossetia.

IT2 Diaz has been in the Navy for nearly three years and has had one deployment to the Middle East and now to the Mediterranean on a routine cruise. IT2 Diaz began his five-month deployment to the Mediterranean in May of this year and was originally scheduled to return to his home port the end of October, or early November but all return plans have been put on hold. The USS McFaul is home-ported in Norfolk, Va., delivered 82 pallets of supplies donated by the U.S. Agency for International Development. The USS McFaul was in the eastern Mediterranean when it got the call to divert to Georgia. The ship first pulled into Souda Bay, Crete, where it was loaded with supplies, then sailed to the Black Sea.

IT2 Diaz’s parents are Richard and Carolyn Diaz, both of Fillmore. "We are very proud of Phillip for serving his country and doing what he's doing. We always tell him we are so proud of what he's doing in the emails we send him and in the satellite phone conversations we have. Phillip recently told me that he feels good to be helping out people that need our help. Phillip cannot say much over the phone, or in emails, but generally tells me to watch and read the news to find out what he is doing. I do that and it makes me nervous to think he is there in harms way, but I always remind him to follow his training, his command officers and to use good judgment. I know if he does that he and his shipmates will be fine.” said his father Richard.

Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Lance Cpl. Jacob J. Toves, of Grover Beach, CA:

“Lance Corporal Jacob Toves served with pride, courage and an unyielding sense of honor to our country. His commitment to freedom and to safeguarding democracy will never be forgotten. Maria and I join all Californians in offering our thoughts and prayers to Jacob’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

Toves, 27, died Aug. 14 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Toves was assigned to the 3rd Combat Engineer Battalion, 3rd Marine Division, III Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps, Okinawa, Japan.

In honor of Lance Cpl. Toves, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the deaths of Cpl. Anthony G. Mihalo, of Naperville, IL, and Lance Cpl. Juan Lopez-Castaneda, of Mesa, AZ:

“Maria and I were deeply saddened to learn of the deaths of Corporal Anthony Mihalo and Lance Corporal Juan Lopez-Castaneda. Both were true patriots and their commitment to liberty is an example of what makes our nation strong. Maria and I join all Californians in offering our condolences to Juan and Anthony’s family and friends during this difficult time.”

Mihalo, 23, and Lopez-Castaneda, 19, died August 14 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. The Marines were assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps, Twentynine Palms, CA.

In honor of Corporal Mihalo and Lance Corporal Lopez-Castaneda, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the deaths of Cpl. Adam T. McKiski, of Cherry Valley, IL and Cpl. Stewart S. Trejo, of Whitefish, MT:

“Corporal Adam McKiski and Corporal Stewart Trejo are true patriots who fought proudly and bravely for their fellow citizens and for the ideals of this country. Californians will never forget their courage and sacrifice. Maria and I send our heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of these brave men during this difficult time.”

McKiski, 21, and Trejo, 25, died August 7, while supporting combat operations in Anbar province, Iraq. They were assigned to the 1st Maintenance Battalion, 1st Marine Logistics Group, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps, Camp Pendleton, Calif.

In honor of Cpl. McKiski and Cpl. Trejo, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

The USS New York.
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The USS New York was built with 24 tons of scrap steel from the World Trade Center. It is the fifth in a new class of warship - designed for missions that include special operations against terrorists. It will carry a crew of 360 sailors and 700 combat-ready Marines to be delivered ashore by helicopters and assault craft.
Steel from the World Trade Center was melted down in a foundry in Amite, LA to cast the ship's bow section. When it was poured into the molds on Sept 9, 2003 , "those big rough steelworkers treated it with total reverence," recalled Navy Capt. Kevin Wensing, who was there. "It was a spiritual moment for everybody there."
Junior Chavers, foundry operations manager, said that when the trade center steel first arrived, he touched it with his hand and the "hair on my neck stood up." "It had a big meaning to it for all of us," he said. "They knocked us down. They can't keep us down. We're going to be back." The ship's motto? "Never Forget"

Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pvt. Jair De Jesus Garcia, of Chatsworth, CA:

“Maria and I are deeply saddened by the loss of Private Jair De Jesus Garcia. Jair De Jesus was a brave soldier who fought courageously in defense of our nation's freedom. His sacrifice, service and loyalty to our country will never be forgotten. We join all Californians in offering our thoughts and prayers to Jair De Jesus' family and friends during this difficult time.”

Garcia, 29, died August 1 from wounds sustained when his vehicle encountered an improvised explosive device in Chowkay, Afghanistan. Garcia was assigned to the 6th Squadron, 4th Calvary Regiment, 3rd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Infantry Division, U.S. Army, Fort Hood, TX.

In honor of Pvt. Garcia, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

Airman Kailey Andrews

Life-long Fillmore resident, Kailey Andrews, 19 years, a graduate of Fillmore High School (FHS) in 2007 recently finished United States Air Force Recruit Training. Kailey attended Los Nogales Elementary and Camarillo Heights Elementary Schools, and Los Altos Middle School in Camarillo before attending FHS. After graduation from FHS Kailey attended Ventura College before enlisting into the United States Air Force. Kailey was an avid softball player since she was 4 yrs. old and played year-round softball through high school at both second base and center field.
Kailey is the daughter of Greg and Stacy (Robertson) Andrews of Fillmore. Kailey has one brother, Ryan Andrews, 23 years, a graduate from Fillmore High School Class of 2003, now attending Cal Poly Pomona studying Kinesiology. Ryan is employed with 24 hr. Fitness as a Personal Trainer.
Kailey’s maternal grandparents are Grandfather Charles Thomas Robertson of Fillmore and Grandmother Vicki Robertson (deceased). Grandfather Charles Thomas Robertson is a retired Assistant Fire Chief from the Point Mugu Naval Base, Point Mugu Fire Department. Kailey’s paternal grandparents; Grandfather Norman Andrews (deceased) and Grandmother 'Mike' Andrews (deceased). Norman and ‘Mike” were long-time Fillmore community leaders. ‘Mike Andrews’ was a school teacher for many years at the then Fillmore Jr. High School before switching careers to become a Realtor/Broker/Owner from 1977-2006 of Andrews Property Store. Both Norman and ‘Mike’ were active Rotarians and members of the Fillmore Sunrise Rotary Club.
Kailey follows a long line of family members with military service with three of her grandfathers also serving in the Military: Grandfather- Charles Thomas Robertson in the United States Navy, Grandfather- Norman Andrews, United States Navy having served in the Korean War and Great grandfather-Marvin Brandt serving in the United States Army seeing action during The Battle of the Bulge.
Kailey enlisted in the United States Air Force in December of 2007 and completed 6 1/2 wks. Training with the 326 TRS/FLT 444TRS (Training squadron) FLT (Flight) at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas graduating on July 11, 2008. At graduation Kailey was awarded the "Thunderbolt" award in physical fitness which is the second tier from the top of the three awards given for physical fitness to graduating recruits. To be presented with the Thunderbolt Award a woman recruit must complete the following tasks within the minimum criteria; Run (1.5 mile) in 12:00 minutes, complete 32 push-ups, 55 sit-ups and 2 pull-ups in the technically correct manner. Airman Kailey Andrews is currently attending Technical School in Wichita Falls, Texas for training as a surgical apprentice.
All of us here in the Fillmore/Piru area are proud of United States Air Force Airman Kailey Andrews’ service, appreciate the sacrifices she and her family have made and wish her safe travel and a successful tour of duty in the United States Air Force.

Arnold Schwarzenegger
California State Governor

Governor Arnold Schwarzenegger today released the following statement regarding the death of Pfc. Ivan I. Wilson, of Clearlake, CA:

“I am deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Private First Class Ivan Wilson, who dedicated his life to protecting the liberty of his fellow citizens and Marines. Californians are forever indebted to Ivan’s unwavering courage and service. Maria and I send our deepest condolences to Ivan’s family and friends.”

Wilson, 22, died July 21 while supporting combat operations in Helmand province, Afghanistan. Wilson was assigned to the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, 1st Marine Division, I Marine Expeditionary Force, U.S. Marine Corps, Twentynine Palms, CA.

In honor of Pfc. Wilson, Capitol flags will be flown at half-staff.

By Helen Weathers
Afghanistan
[Helen is a contracted forensic expert teaching the Afghanistan nationals fingerprint technology. She will be there for six months]

A soldier went home today.....only he was not at the end of his leave, he was not getting excited about going home to the civilian life he left to be a soldier, he was not going home to see the smiles on his family's face, yet he was going home.
He was going home for the last night in an American flag draped silver box. As I watched hundreds of soldiers line the main road at the base called 'Disney', I was reminded why I am doing what I'm doing and the reasons that I have left my family. I had to hold back my tears since I was told crying in public is a sign of weakness. I did not want to shed tears of sorrow, rather tears of respect and admiration for this soldier I did not know. This soldier knew dying was an inherent risk of enlisting, yet he did it for me, for my family and for all those Americans that live their daily lives with a freedom they take for granted all too often. I am doing a small part to help identify those that made it their life purpose to send an American home in a silver box. If I am able to help only one soldier be able to go home to see the smile's on his family's face, then my time here will have been the most important thing I have done in my life, besides having the wonderful children that I have. I am ensuring that their future is safe.
My time has only started, yet I know I will be helping to make a difference. For everyone that can not understand my reasons, I hope this sheds some light and some understanding. I am doing this for my family...
Please pass this on if I have forgotten anyone.
Helen Weathers,
Afghanistan

Here’s a scoop from a life long Fillmore citizen who is currently deployed to Iraq with the US Army. My name is CPL Jesus T. Lomeli, son of Jesus and Elisa Lomeli, and older brother of former Miss Fillmore Yeseni Lomeli. I also have three other sisters, Susie, Briana and Deanna Lomeli, who are currently attending school in Fillmore and actively involved in the community.
I was born at Santa Paula Memorial Hospital and attended San Cayetano and Sespe Elementary schools. I attended Fillmore Middle School during the building process and graduated from Fillmore High School, Class of 2002. I then attended Oxnard College full time and worked at the local Dodge, Chrysler, and Jeep dealership in Fillmore. The financial burden of attending school was creating a problem and the first solution I came across was a GI Bill offered by the Army to pay for my schooling.
I enlisted in the Army in October 2003 and attended Basic Training in March 2004 at Ft. Jackson, South Carolina. Once I completed Basic Training, I attended Advanced Individual training as an Automated Logistical Specialist in Ft Lee, Virginia which I graduated at the top of my class being recognized as the Distinguished Honor Graduate. I was then stationed in Baumholder, Germany and have lived in Europe since. I deployed for the first time in 2005 in support of OIF III in the volatile Anbar Province on a Marine Base called Al Taqqadum. I returned the end of 2006 and was awarded an Army Commendation Medal, Combat Action Badge, Iraqi Campaign Medal and the Global War on Terrorism Medal.
I then spent another year in Germany on track to separate from the Army in March 2008 and return to California and finish my schooling. I was involuntarily extended by the infamous stop-loss and am currently deployed in support of OIF V at Forward Operating Base Hammer in Eastern Baghdad. I am currently assigned to the Convoy Security Platoon and provide security in Combat Logistics Patrols through downtown Baghdad. I am on my second tour in Iraq assigned to the 47th Forward Support Battalion, 2nd Brigade Combat Team, 1st Armored Division.
I am currently taking on-line college courses, working on completing my BA. Once I am done with this tour I am separating from the Army and pursuing a career in the medical field. I have every intention of returning to Fillmore once I am ready to start a family.
I have seen a lot of the continental states, many European countries and parts of Southwest Asia, and nothing compares to the weather, scenery, and community that Fillmore has to offer. I am proud of my little town and can't wait for this tour to end so I can once again become a permanent resident of Southern California.
CPL Jesus T. Lomeli, 1AD 2BCT 47TH FSB, US Army. P.S.: If any community members would like to contribute any care packages, as hygiene and other items become hard to come by they can mail them to: Convoy Security Platoon, B CO 47TH FSB, 1AD 2BCT, APO, AE 09308.

Eleazar Lopez

“I graduated with the greatest class ever” Eleazar Lopez, 19 years old, told me of his 2007 Fillmore High School Graduating Class. Eleazar soon after graduation enlisted in the United States Army on March 31st 2007 and completed his basic training was at Fort Jackson, South Carolina. Eleazar also attended Piru Elementary School and Fillmore Middle School. Eleazar was on the FHS Cross Country and Track and Field teams all 4 years at FHS. He also played the trumpet in the band from the 4th grade to his freshman year at FHS.

United States Army Private Eleazar Lopez’ parents are Victor and Susan Lopez of Fillmore. His siblings are Victoria Lopez, 20 years old, and Sofia Lopez, 16 years old, both of Fillmore. Private Eleazar Lopez is the Grandson of the late (Maternal) Dr. James Francis (a United States Navy veteran of WWII and former fireman) and Thelma Grace Basque and the late (Paternal) Crispin and Maria Guadalupe Lopez Saucedo.
Private Eleazar Lopez is a mechanic attached to the 571st Military Police Company, 504th Military Police Battalion, 42nd Military Police Brigade known as the “Dragon Slayers”. The 504th Military Police Battalion is a combat Military Police Battalion with a Headquarters Detachment and three line companies; the 66th MP Company, the 170th Military Police Company and the 571st Military Police Company. The 504th also fulfills the Law and Order mission for Fort Lewis and Yakima Training Center. The 504th Military Police Battalion is a unit with a 70 year history of accomplishments and pride, and is the most decorated Military Police Battalion on active duty today.
Private Eleazar Lopez is planning to reclassify his assignment to become an Airborne Ranger. He is currently at his first duty station, Fort Lewis, Washington but already has plans to reenlist and seek assignments in Hawaii, Fort Bragg, North Carolina, or Fort Stewart, Georgia. Although he has yet to deploy he tells me his Unit is preparing to deploy to either Iraq or Afghanistan in early 2009. Fort Lewis, named after Meriwether Lewis of the famed Lewis and Clark expedition, is one of the largest and most modern military reservations in the United States. Consisting of 87,000 acres of prairie land cut from the glacier-flattened Nisqually Plain, it is the premier military installation in the Northwest. Fort Lewis has more than 25,000 soldiers and civilian workers. The post supports 120,000(+) retirees and more than 29,000 family members living both on and off post. Fort Lewis proper contains 86,000 acres; the Yakima Training Center covers 324,000 acres. Private Eleazar Lopez has been awarded the Global War on Terrorism Medal, Army Service Ribbon and Army Defense Ribbon.

All of us here at home wish Private Eleazar Lopez safe travel, we are proud of his service and we thank him and his family for their sacrifices to maintain our freedoms.

Phillip C. Diaz

I got one of those early morning phone calls yesterday that raises the hair on the back of your neck and sends a chill down your spine! My initial response was probably due my belief that no good news comes late in the night or at 5:30 AM. So as the phone rang I rushed towards the ringing expecting to hear the worse news from the caller.
It was my son Phillip calling me from Norfolk, Virginia to tell me that he was just promoted to Navy Petty Officer Second Class (PO2)! I don’t know if my excitement was for his promotion or because it was not the dreaded type of phone call I had expected, but I was excited! I am sure I overreacted but I was elated to hear the news. I let it all out which as it turned out was a good thing because my wife Carolyn was upstairs still holding her breath from the time she heard the phone ring and was waiting for me to climb the stairs and give her the bad news. Of course she heard me and was just as excited as I was when I reached her to hand her the phone.
Why would a promotion cause such excitement? As many of you know my son is from Korea, but has lived, until joining the Navy, all but four months of his life here in Fillmore. Phillip was born Yun Chan Lee on June 13, 1986 in Pusan, Korea to very young parents who could not care for him due to the extreme poverty level they found themselves in. The decision to put their newborn into an orphanage for adoption must have been difficult, but if they did it so that he would have a better life they achieved their goal.
Yun Chan Lee was placed immediately into an orphanage operated by Holt International and four months later found himself in the lobby of the Bradley International Terminal at the Los Angeles International Airport. He was being handed over to two strangers who had begun the adoption process about the time his Korean mother had conceived him. Little Yun Chan Lee was driven first to be introduced to family in Orange County and then to his new home in Fillmore. Soon he was given his new name Phillip Cecelio Diaz and the process of giving him a new life was begun.
Phillip was a great kid growing up and like most kids he did the typical things that bring parents joy, worry, sadness and pride. I could not have been more proud when Phillip chose to follow his late Grandfather Cecelio T. Diaz into the Navy. His choice to serve his adopted country as an American Sailor is his way of not only honoring his Grandfather, but a way I believe of paying back his adopted Country for the opportunities she has provided for him. I also believe in some way something that happened while he was still a toddler may have influenced his decision to enlist in the Navy.
As a toddler I often had my son near me while I did yard work. One morning as we were in the front yard pulling weeds a young man approached us and asked me if Phillip was a Holt baby? After I told him yes he told me he also was also a Holt baby and that he had been born to an unmarried Korean mother and an American father. He said that was not a good thing in the Korean culture and he had been discarded by his birth mother into a trash receptacle soon after birth. He was rescued and placed with a Holt International orphanage and soon was adopted by American parents. At the time of our conversation that young man was serving in the United States Navy as a Navy pilot stationed at Pt. Mugu Naval Air Station. My son was told this story when he was old enough to understand it and has heard me retell it many times as an example of the opportunities this Country has given to not only him, and that young Naval Aviator, but to all of us.
On Memorial Day, Monday, May 26th my son, newly promoted Petty Officer Second Class Phillip C. Diaz leaves for his second deployment of his two and one-half years in the Navy. This time he will be patrolling the Mediterranean instead of the Persian Gulf as he did on his first deployment. When I think about Phillip’s service I can’t help but feel that Carolyn and I did the right thing nearly twenty-two years ago when Phillip came into our lives and into this community. I wish you safe travel son and I thank you for your service and sacrifice to keep your Country strong.

United States Air Force Airman First Class Ryan Hackney.

Airman First Class (AIC) Ryan Hackney, 20 years old, a life-long Fillmore resident is a 2005 graduate of Cornerstone Christian School in Camarillo. Ryan also attended the Fillmore Christian Academy through the 6th grade. Ryan played in the Fillmore Little League Baseball and AYSO soccer. He also four years of soccer, as well of one year of basketball and one year of baseball for Cornerstone Christian School and In soccer he was voted MVP his junior and senior years. Ryan excelled as an athlete and a scholar in school. In the 8th grade he won several local, District and State spelling bees and then represented Southern California in the Association of Christian Schools International (ACSI) National Spelling Bee in Washington, D.C. AIC Ryan Hackney enlisted in the Air Force on August 22, 2006 and he is stationed at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Alaska.

AIC Ryan Hackney is the son of Chuck and Tracy (Carpenter) Hackney of Fillmore. He has one sister Elyse Hackney, 17 years old, and a senior at Ventura County Christian High School. His Maternal Grandparents are Fred Carpenter of Fillmore and Evelyn Carpenter of Camarillo. His Paternal Grandparents are Dick Hackney and the late JoAnn Hackney of Fillmore. Ryan follows a long line of family members who have served in the military, his Grandfather Dick Hackney served in the Army and his Great-grandfather Paul Hackney, served in the Navy during WWI. Also serving was his Great-grandfather Fred Carpenter (Sr.) who served in General George S. Patton Jr.’s Third Army during WWII (1944-1945). Ryan’s Great-uncle, Larry Carpenter, served as the Sheriff for Ventura County from 1993-1998.

AIC Ryan Hackney has served a six-month deployment to the Middle East in 2007. In the Middle East he served with the 379th Air Expeditionary Wing at Camp As Sayliyah, Qatar located on the outskirts of the capital city, Doha, Qatar. The 379th Air Expeditionary Wing is one of the largest, most diverse expeditionary wings in the Air Force, providing combat airpower and support for the Global War on Terrorism in Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom and through support of the Joint Task Force Horn of Africa. The wing and its associate units operate more than 100 aircraft, making the base a large hub for humanitarian airlift activity while providing mission-essential combat power, aeromedical evacuation and intelligence support for three theaters of operations.

AIC Ryan Hackney has been awarded an Expeditionary Medal for "outstanding service” in support of Operations Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, the Combined Joint Task Force Horn of Africa and the National Defense Medal. He has earned Expert Marksman ribbons in both the M-4 and M-9 weaponry. He also has earned a ribbon for being an Honor Graduate at Lackland Air Force Base in Texas where he completed his basic training. Lackland is home to the 737th Training Group which provides Air Force Basic Military Training (BMT) for all enlisted people entering the Air Force, Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard, earning Lackland the nickname, "Gateway to the Air Force."
The Air Force receives approximately 35,000 Airmen each year from the 737th Training Group; the number varies with projected requirements.
Following graduation, Airmen go on to technical training at Lackland, or elsewhere, before their first Air Force assignment. More than seven million Airmen have completed BMT since 1946. This, I believe makes AIC Ryan Hackney’s “Honor Graduate” designation no small feat! Recently he received a 5 of all 5 (highest) on his yearly service performance evaluation. AIC Ryan Hackney has surely found the Air Force to be a good fit for him.

In Alaska, AIC Ryan Hackney is with the 3rd Security Forces Squadron at Elmendorf Air Force Base, Anchorage, Alaska. When I asked Ryan what he does he told me, “I perform functions as both a law enforcement officer such as the normal speeding tickets, and other traffic stops, to responding to robberies, we are first responders to emergencies, domestic situations, suicides and basically any other law enforcement related responsibilities a civilian law enforcement officer would do. Along with that we perform security functions protecting Priority level 2 and 3 resources to include a Intelligence Squadron several AWACS airplanes, Alert cell F-22’s that are armed and manned at all times, and a quite extensive flight line.” Being familiar with law enforcement I believe AIC Ryan Hackney’s job in the Air Force is very important and one I believe he does well and will continue to do well.

Elmendorf's host unit is the 3rd Wing. As the largest and principal unit within 11th Air Force, the 3rd Wing trains and equips an Air Expeditionary Force lead wing comprised of more than 6,600 Airmen and F-15C/D, E-3B, C-17, F-22A and C-12 aircraft. It provides air supremacy, surveillance, worldwide airlift, and agile combat support forces to project global power and global reach. The 3rd Wing also maintains the installation for critical force staging and throughput operations in support of worldwide contingencies and provides medical care for all forces in Alaska. The 3rd Mission Support Squadron executes mission support for the 3rd Wing and 36 associate units assigned to Elmendorf AFB—the largest military installation in 11th Air Force and is responsible for Civil Engineering, Services, Mission Support, Security Forces, Communications, Logistics Readiness, Contracting, and Non-Commission Officer Professional Military Education. Maintains combat and contingency readiness forces and supports two forward operating bases.

All of us here in Fillmore and Piru wish AIC Ryan Hackney safe travel, a great career and we thank him and his family for his service and for their sacrifices while he is protecting all of our freedoms.

United States Air Force Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio.

This article began with an email from the older brother of Pedro Rivera-Aparicio, Roque Rivera. Roque asked me if it was possible for me to do an article about his brother, without his brother being contacted for the information I needed. His request was because he wanted to surprise his brother with the article. Roque told me that Pedro would be proud that his community would want to honor him with an article about his service in the United States Air Force. Although unusual I thought it was a worthy cause and enlisted Rogue as my assistant in gathering the necessary information. Now that the article has been written and I have gotten to know Pedro, through Roque, I am thankful that I was allowed to participate in Roque’s surprise for his brother Pedro!
United States Air Force Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera- Aparicio, 24 years, is a 2002 graduate of Fillmore High School. He also attended San Cayetano and Sespe Elementary Schools, and Fillmore Middle School. Although not avid in Fillmore sports Pedro did participate in AYSO Soccer, but his primary interest has always been working on cars.
Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio is the son of Roque and Leonor Rivera of Fillmore. His Paternal Grandparents are Isaias and Maria de Jesus Rivera and Maternal Grandparents Gregorio and Ernestina Aparicio. His siblings are Nancy Rivera 28 years, Roque Rivera 26 years, Francisco Rivera 22 years, and Victor Rivera 17years all living in Fillmore. Pedro has other family members who have also served in the military; Brother Roque Rivera who served with the United States Army from 2001-2005. Roque is a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom having served there for thirteen months as an Infantry Sergeant. While in Iraq he was with a Scout platoon conducting sniper missions, raids, patrol missions and reconnaissance. And, Cousin Jose "JR" Tamayo of Moorpark who has been with the United States Marines for approximately a year.
Prior to his current assignment Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio attended a Special Purpose and Equipment Maintenance Technical School at the Port Hueneme Seabee base in Port Hueneme, California. For his hard work at the school he was recognized as the schools distinguished graduate. Although the school is managed by the Navy but is open to soldiers in other branches.
Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio is stationed in Aviano, Italy supporting the 31st Fighter Wing assigned to the 31st Logistics Readiness Squadron (31st LRS). He enlisted on May 11, 2004 and completed his Basic Training at Lackland Air Force Base, Texas. Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio reenlisted October 10, 2007 and thinks he may make the Air Force a career. He is currently a Staff Sergeant Select awaiting his permanent promotion to Air Force Staff Sergeant.
Aviano Air Base is located at the base of the Dolomites at the northern end of the Po Valley, the largest agricultural plain in Italy. The base is 35 minutes from skiing at Piancavallo and an hour from the beaches of the Adriatic. The closest large city is Pordenone, about 10 minutes away, and Venice is only an hour and a half away by auto or train. The host wing at Aviano is the 31st Fighter Wing, which maintains two F-16 fighter squadrons to conduct regional and expeditionary operations under the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), Supreme Allied Commander Europe (SACEUR) or national tasking.
The 31st Logistics Readiness Squadron delivers and sustains combat logistics readiness support through professional vehicle, supply and fuels management. The unit plans and executes surface, rail, air and sea movement of passengers and cargo for the 31st Fighter Wing, Geographically Separated Units (GSU) and US and NATO deployed forces. The 31st LRS executes base deployment operations while maintaining a robust capability to deploy personnel/cargo in support of Air Expeditionary Force (AEF). More than 449 active-duty, Reserve and Civilian employees are assigned to the Logistics Readiness Squadron. The squadron is responsible for over 1200 vehicles valued at over $58M, stock accounts valued at over $521M, and the receipt, storage, quality and issue of over 42M gallons of fuel and cryogenics products annually. The unit manages 618 Unit Type Codes tasking 4,370 personnel and 1,942 short tons of cargo and maintains a War Reserve Materiel program valued at $1.5M. The 31st LRS also operates the wing's Support Agreement office, maintaining more than 20 support agreements with $25M in reimbursements annually.
Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio has earned two achievement medals: one for performing First Aid on an injured civilian. The civilian was cutting wood and cut two of his fingers off. The award reads, "Airman Rivera's quick reaction and immediate first-aid care on a fellow mechanic proved invaluable as he tended to a severe hand injury. While working on a self-help project, a co-worker accidentally amputated two fingers on his right hand as he was cutting wooden planks on a table saw. Without hesitation, Airman Rivera promptly used his self-aid and buddy care training to cover the injury and control bleeding with a make shift bandage made out of his Battle Dress Uniform shirt."
The other award for all his work, while at Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi. This included his participation during Hurricane Katrina. The award says, "During this period, Airman Rivera's exceptional skills and knowledge of heavy equipment were instrumental in the flight maintaining an average 93.7 percent vehicle-in-commission rate during the last 2 years. Additionally, Airman Rivera was vital in aiding the movement of 2.5 million pounds of critical first-aid and food supplies for three costal counties, after Hurricane Katrina."
In addition to his other duties Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio assists his fellow Airman as a Airman Against Drunk Driving Representative- Staff Sergeant Select Rivera-Aparicio would be ready to go pick up a fellow Airman who are unable to drive a motor vehicle because of their alcohol impairment. He does this as a volunteer and on his free time.
Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio has been on two deployments. One to Manas Air Base, Kyrgyzstan as a Vehicles and Material Handling Equipment Journeyman. And, the other to Al-Udeid Air Base in Qatar as a Third Country National Security Escort. His deployments have been in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom and Operation Enduring Freedom with the Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa. The Combined Joint Task Force - Horn of Africa (CJTF-HOA) is a joint task force of United States Central Command. It is a component of the United States response to the September 11, 2001 attacks. CJTF-HOA focuses its efforts on conducting unified action in the combined joint operations area of the Horn of Africa to prevent conflict, promote regional stability, and protect Coalition interests in order to prevail against extremism.
Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio has earned military ribbons and medals for; Air Force Achievement Medal, Meritorious Unit Award, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with Valor Device, National Defense Service Medal, Global War on Terrorism Expeditionary Medal, Global War on Terrorism Service Medal, Humanitarian Service Medal, Air Force Expeditionary Service Ribbon with Gold Border, Air Force Training Ribbon.
I know that Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio is fortunate to not only have a proud Brother like Roque, but his entire family is proud of his service and sacrifice. All of us here in Fillmore and Piru wish Staff Sergeant Select Pedro Rivera-Aparicio safe travel and thank him and his family for their service and sacrifices to protect our freedoms.

Ventura – Services available to Ventura County veterans who may be living with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), will be highlighted at the Ventura County Board Of Supervisors meeting today, Tuesday, May 20 at 8:30 am, in the Hall of Administration, 800 Victoria Ave in Ventura, in honor of the upcoming Memorial Day weekend. Immediately following the board meeting, a tour of the One Stop Center, which serves local veterans, among others, will be offered by third district Supervisor Kathy Long and fourth district Supervisor Peter Foy. The One Stop Center is located at the Public Health Auditorium, 3147 Loma Vista Road, Ventura, 93003.

Media is invited to attend and cover the tour (at approximately 12 noon). Photo and interview opportunities with the supervisors, Mike Powers, Director of the Health Care Agency and US Navy Capt Brad “Brick” Conners from Naval Base Ventura County will be available.

“PTSD is just one of the many issues vets in our county are dealing with. As a first stop for many vets looking for help, we want to direct vets to the services provided by the county and our partners, as well as local health and mental health care providers,” said Supervisor Kathy Long who co-chairs the Health Care Oversight Committee with Peter Foy.

Supervisor Peter Foy said “The quality of life we enjoy here in Ventura County is due in large part to the service of these brave men and women. They choose to live here because of our outstanding quality of life. Let’s work together in partnership with our friends at the navy base, our community partners and with our outstanding health care agency to do what we can for them.”

According to the RAND Corporation, PTSD affects veterans from World War II, the Korean and Vietnam Wars, the Gulf Wars and the current wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The RAND study estimates that 20 percent of all Iraq and Afghanistan veterans suffer from PTSD or major depression – over 300,000 soldiers in all.

Captain Brad “Brick” Conners, Commander of the Naval Base Ventura County, and home to over 18,000 sailors, enlisted personnel and civilian employees, will present the Board of Supervisors with a Commanders Commendation for the county’s efforts to combat PTSD. “This county has a great quality of life and we want to recognize the county’s health care agency for all they do to help our navy vets in this area,” said Captain Conners.

According to Michael Powers, Director of the Health Care Agency, “As we honor our veterans this Memorial Day, we hope to highlight the services available to the men and women who have so bravely served our country through the Health Care Agency, our community partners and the One Stop Center for the homeless.”