Region 6 MARS Director Messages


Please forward to all region 6. Thanks Ken M AFF6C ---------- Forwarded Message ---------- RMDs, please distribute to affiliates. ALL, I would like to thank everyone for their dedicated support of the AF MARS program! 1. Regional Restructuring: After discussions with FEMA and TSA personnel, it was decided to move forward and develop a plan to migrate the AF MARS Regional Structure, in alignment with, the 10 FEMA Regions. We are only now in the preliminary planning stages. A signed migration plan, with time table, will be issued from HQ when ready for implementation. The only migration or change authorized at this time, is to move Region 8 administratively under Region 6. This is because of the limited membership in Region 8, the pending retirement of Cal Higa, AFF8C and no Region 8 affiliates have stepped forward to accept the responsibilities of the position. To dispel any rumors, this is not an Army MARS initiative and has nothing to do with Army or Navy-Marine Corps MARS! This an AF MARS initiative based on recommendations received at HQ last year and tabled until the subject was broached at the Dayton Chiefs forum. It was then decided the time to go f orward with implementation was upon us. 2. Equipment Program I have yet to receive authorization from DLA to issue equipment from DRMO, until that authorization is received, issuance of equipment from DRMO is on hold. I recommend to all affiliates, if you have equipment no longer needed/wanted make an effort to keep it within the system by transferring to another affiliate. The assigned equipment of a deceased, terminated or resigned affiliate member may be transferred to any MARS member who wants it, or turned in to the nearest DRMO, however, ensure the paperwork is completed IAW the MOI. RMD/SMDs; Prior to reassignment/transfer/destruction or cannibalization of any Government issued equipment, contact HQ for a copy of the Affiliate member's inventory. Destruction and/or cannibalization requires HQ approval in advance! There has been "poor record keeping" in the past with the Tri-Service MARS Equipment Programs, therefore, it is very important you complete the appropriate paperwork and ensure HQ is informed of any/all equipment transactions. Again thanks to everyone for their support! Tnx 73, Al Eiermann Chief, AF MARS (AGA3C) DoD Teleport Air Force Communications Agency (AFCA-ESLM) 203 W. Losey St, Room 3100 Scott AFB, IL 62225-5222 DSN: 779-5963 C:(618) 229-5963 DSN FAX: 779-5792 C:(618) 229-5792 afca.mars@scott.af.mil or Allen.Eiermann@us.af.mil
Please forward this to all region 6. Thanks Ken M AFF6C ---------- Forwarded Message ---------- All, I received the following link from AFF1C and am forwarding to you for your reading pleasure! If you already have a copy, my apologies. You can see where our Federal leadership is trying to go and as we rewrite the MOI, National ECOM Plan and National Training Manual, this should be taken in consideration. Enclosed is the URL for the new FEMA Communications Response Plan, under the NRF National Emergency Communications Plan Tnx 73, Al Eiermann Chief, AF MARS (AGA3C) DoD Teleport Air Force Communications Agency (AFCA-ESLM) 203 W. Losey St, Room 3100 Scott AFB, IL 62225-5222 DSN: 779-5963 C:(618) 229-5963 DSN FAX: 779-5792 C:(618) 229-5792 afca.mars@scott.af.mil or Allen.Eiermann@us.af.mil
RMD's: 1. Please ensure that the personnel in your Regions know that we have a TRANSCON Operations GrTRANSCON Operations Group on Yahoo. All stations with Sound Card Digital Modes capabilities or TNC Digital Modes capabilities should join the Group. 2. The AFMARS TRANSCON HF Voice Net (TVN) and the TRANSCON Digital Net (TDN) Net Schedules are posted in the appropriate files sections. 3. The AFMARS TRANSCON Pactor Network (TPN) BBS List and TPN Net Plan information is posted in the appropriate files sections. Some of the TPN BBS Stations us MSYS and some of the TPN BBS Stations use Winlink Classic (v.2.9 & 3.0), which is NOT to be confused with Winlink 2000 (WL2K). WL2K is frequently referred to as WINLINK. 4. Be advised: The TRANSCON Pactor Network is NOT the same as the AFMARS WL2K, which is part of the JOINT-MARS WL2K Emergency Communications Network. ---------------------------------------------------- George H. Stickler, AFA4CU/AFN4DM AFMARS National Digital Manager Deputy Manager for Operations, TRANSCON HF Voice Net Assistant Manager for Central USA, TRANSCON Space Support Net E-Mail: stickler@wildblue.net Phone: (210) 626-3099 (Home with Voice Mail) Cellular: (210) 289-5161 (Mobile with Voice Mail)
ALL Region 6! The so called Re org proposal (plan) IS NOT a directive. It is NOT in the MOI Yet. So knock off the posturing and rumormongering. DO NOT Make Any Assumptions. There is a lot of things that have to happen BEFORE ANY change in call signs or position appointments can be made as a result this re org plan under "color of authority". At the risk of repeating myself. This is not an Official Document or Directive it is information only. At issue are the reassessment of Net Frequencies. Assigning new call signs for all members of the regions. Procedures for transferring personnel records between the gaining and losing states/regions.. SHARES A Mars Time Data Base program (for windows, not DOS based) to compile and maintain the new data such that it can be available to all affiliates for time reporting and roster maintenance. RMS call signs and other issues not as yet addressed by this re org proposal or the Chief.. I recommend ALL member affiliates to prepare a new application for membership to provide an update data base for developing the AF form 3661s, using WORD and or ADOBE ACROBAT only, that will be required to assign ALL new call signs and other data to me AT w0vph@juno.com .jpg or other document imaging methods will not be accepted as they do not appear standard 8 1/2 x 11 page size documents SMDs NCSs YOU will not make any personnel changes or terminations until this Proposal ACTUALLY becomes incorporated into the yet to be published AF MOI or as directed through Official Channels. Training, basic, will continue as currently established. All nets will continue to operate as normal. Individual members who participate in specialty nets, Phone Patch etc will continue as directed by the Specialty/Digital or ALE net manager. Training will be conducted by those specialty net programs without interference from the various training managers, Region or State.. Ken Mulkey Civ., USAF MARS AFF6C Region Director. ---------------------------------------- Please note: forwarded message attached ---------------------------------------- All: the Chief has verbally approved the attached plan for realignment. Thank you all for your input. Later, 73 John S. Ferguson AFF1C Realignment / Migration Committee Chair UNITED STATES AIR FORCE MARS REALIGNED REGIONS AND AREAS
Mon 6/16/2008 8:45 PM Please send these comments to all region 6. Ken AFF6C ---------- Forwarded Message ---------- All, an invitation to serve on the Air Force MARS Realingment/Migration Committee, has been extended to all current RMD's. I believe the input from all the RMD's is critical in making this project succesful. We particularly need to hear from those regions, one, three and five, that are most affected by this action. The most important consideration that I can think of, is that we avoid, in as much as possible, the confusion that reigned when Army MARS went through their reorganization/realingment. The horror stories still circulate after that event. We cannot afford to embark on such a debacle. Functionality: We must be able to continue to function as a communication system and service during and after this migration/realignment. Staffing:We could need staffing for up to four new entities. Frequencies: Four new entities will require consideration in additional frequencies. Propagation: As regions change in size, propagation will become more of an issue than it is now, impacting frequency assignment and availability. I would like to have the advantage of group input and opinion as we develop a plan, and then execute the plan to bring this about. "No one of us is as smart as all of us", therefore if we all work together, this mission will be accomplished. There is no 'perfect' solution, compromises will be necessary, and therefore disussion and interaction is needed. To those of you that have already replied to my earlier note, thank you. Below, a range of options to think about and consider. 1. The committee studies the issues and decides that it is not in the best interest of Air Force MARS to go through realignment, develops defensible reasons to suuport that position, and reports same to the Chief for his consideration. 2. The committee suggests that ten FEMA coordinators be appointed, incumbent in the 10 FEMA regions, with authority across Air Force Region boundaries. They would be administratively responsible to teh RMD in the Air Force Region they reside in. These positions could now also be a point of contact for interoperability issues with the other two services, for their asigned FEMA Region. This provides a single point of contact for FEMA and the other two services, with no other adminsitrative changes. 3. The committee develops a direct migration from Air Force regions to FEMA regions based strictly on the state by state listing for each FEMA entity. No other administrative or command structure. The "Realingment Matrix" previously sent reflects this. 4. As in number three above, but a further development of Areas, grouping region entities as appropriate. Probably 5 or 6 Areas would be appropriate. This could help with staffing and frequency issues, with an Area working much like previous regions. Area size should consider time zone and propagation issues. Some regions would be large enough to be considered an Area, such as FEMA IV. FEMA Regions I,II,III; could become an Area, enjoying the benefits of grouping. 5. Similar to number 4, but realign boundaries of current Air Force Regions to correspond with FEMA region boundaries,. keping then the region functions. As in the previous example of Areas, present AF Region One, would align with FEMA I, II, III., AF Region Two with FEMA IV, etc. This raises some issues in the present AF Region Three, however. The above are presented for provoking thoughts and ideas, identifying issues that might need to be addressed in a realignment, and hopefully leadinfg to an elegant, effective forward looking plan. Realignment is going to be more than callsigns and 3661's. Also, if there are other idividuals that you think might be beneficial to this committee, please let me know. Once we get a core group identified, I do feel it will be necessary to solicit input from national coordinators, and other resource people. Later, 73 John S. Ferguson AFF1C Realignment/Migration Committee Chair
Please send to all region 6. as it represents the Outline of the realignment of MARS with FEMA. Ken AFF6C Please note: forwarded message attached ------------------------------------------------------------- All: below is a matrix of information on the realignment issue. This reflects a direct Air force Region to FEMA region transition. This is for information only, and not to yet be considered "the plan". Please let me know of errors you find. Air Force MARS Realignment Matrix
Here it is the reorg. I have been telling you about... Please send to all region 6. Thanks Ken M Please note: forwarded message attached ____________________________________________________________ ALL, 1. I'm designating John Ferguson, AFF1C to establish and chair a committee, to explore ways and develop a transition plan, to migrate our current AF MARS Regions, to a structure in alignment with, the ten FEMA Regions. I would like the transition to be as painless as possible and if feasible, to be completed by the first of the new year (January 2009). However, that date is not locked in stone! We can move it to the right if necessary! 2. With the pending retirement and relocation of Cal Higa, AFF8C,and in the spirit of the regional restructuring, I?m transferring AF MARS Region Eight, administrative responsibilities to the Region Six MARS Director. Cal please contact Ken AFF6C and make necessary arrangements for the transfer of Region 8 records. A Personnel Action Form, AF 3661 will be distributed early next week. Please contact HQ if there are any insurmountable problems with this transfer of responsibility. Thank you, Everyone have a good weekend and to all of you, Dads and pending Dads, Happy Father?s Day! 73 Al Eiermann Chief, AF MARS (AGA3C) DoD Teleport Air Force Communications Agency (AFCA-ESLM) 203 W. Losey St, Room 3100 Scott AFB, IL 62225-5222 DSN: 779-5963 (618) 229-5963 FAX (618) 256-8673 afca.mars@scott.af.mil or Allen.Eiermann@us.af.mil
For: ALL REGION 6 AF MARS. Reference AF MARS Message: UNCLASSIFIED R 012010Z NOV 2005 FM CHIEF AF MARS TO USAF REGION MARS DIRECTORS USAF MARS members AND STATIONS ZEN CHIEF ARMY MARS ZEN CHIEF NAVY-MARINE CORPS MARS BT SUBJECT: AUTHORIZED VHF Frequencies Where in the USAF Chief references AF MARS VHF frequencies, specifically the "Primary Pair", now have new licenses for our VHF frequencies. "1. IN PREPARATION OF THE 1 JAN 2008 NTIA NARROWBANDING REQUIREMENTS, USAF MARS OFFICE HAS NOW RECEIVED NEW LICENSES FOR OUR VHF FREQUENCIES." "2. SOME OF THE FREQUENCIES HAVE CHANGED, AND THEY ALL ARE LICENSED FOR NARROWBAND OPERATION (12.5 KHZ CHANNEL SPACING), FREQUENCY MODULATED, AND A MAXIMUM OUTPUT POWER OF 100 WATTS." "3. THE PRIMARY REPEATER PAIR WILL REMAIN ON LPI AS THE INPUT FREQUENCY AND LPO AS THE OUTPUT FREQUENCY, THE PRIMARY DATA FREQUENCY WILL REMAIN ON LDP." "4. THE SECONDARY REPEATER PAIR WILL BE LSI AS THE INPUT FREQUENCY AND LSO AS THE OUTPUT FREQUENCY. THE SECONDARY DATA FREQUENCY WILL BE LDA." "5. LLK CAN BE USED FOR LINKING OR OTHER OPERATIONS APPROVED BY THE USAF MARS OFFICE." "6. SIMPLEX VOICE OPERATION CAN BE USED ON ANY OF THE REPEATER FREQUENCIES, PROVIDING SIMPLEX VOICE OPERATIONS ARE NOT INTERFERING WITH ANY REPEATER OPERATIONS."...[Omitted: frequency chart and data FOUO] MY decision is that this OFFICIAL USAF MARS CHIEF's R 12010Z NOV 2005 message, ZEN ARMY and Navy-Marine Corps, pre-dates the Army's issuance of authorizations for their interfering utilization of the frequencies LPI/LPO and any other assignment currently based and with prior authorizations by the USAF are valid as to retention of USAF MARS priority assignment of these VHF frequencies. Army MARS stations are encouraged and may continue to utilize our repeaters in their/our operating areas, (including mobile/transportable as long as they comply with the standard pairings authorized by the USAF guidance), but are not authorized to establish independent repeater operations on frequencies where there is the potential for harmful interference to currently existing or planned USAF systems through out CONUS, AK/HI or other (including overseas) areas where such systems shall exist. For: Chief USAF MARS HQ AFCA Sir, I am still convinced that this issue is an AFFMA matter and must be resolved at that level (Please pass to the Army SMD, CA for forwarding to Army FMO). This is the earliest reference to USAF MARS authorization for these VHF/NTIA era frequency assignments. As you can see the message Date Time Group identifies a date prior to the Army action clearly negating their premis of authorization AND that the Army and Navy-Marine Corps Chiefs were notified of the AFFMA action at the time. In addition the point should be made that these assignments are National in scope and not locally issued by any other requesting agency. Kendall L. Mulkey, Civ AFF6C Region 6 USAF MARS Director UNCLASSIFIED
Please Post.

Ken AFF6C ---------- Forwarded Message ---------- Stu/Dennis/Ken I've been attempting, unsuccessfully, to contact our AFFMA representative in DC for clarification of our repeater frequency assignments in California. I'm curious as to why those frequencies were assigned to Army MARS when the latest list from AFFMA (Nov 07) indicated they are assigned to AF MARS. AF MARS should have been informed of these changes to prevent the current problem! However, I'm all in favor of shared resources as long as AF MARS Net requirements are satisfied. Dennis, please work the Army MARS folks and make it happen. Tnx Al Eiermann Chief, AF MARS (Pending) DoD Teleport Air Force Lead Command Satellite Communications Manager HQ AFCA/ESLM (MARS/DoD Teleport) 203 West Losey Street Scott AFB, IL 62225 DSN: 779-5964 (618) 229-5964 FAX (618) 256-8673 -----Original Message----- From: Carter, Stuart S Mr CIV USA NETCOM/9TH SC A [mailto:stuart.carter@US.ARMY.MIL] Sent: Thursday, January 24, 2008 6:53 PM To: Dennis M McCord Cc: Eiermann, Allen C CIV AFCA/ESLM Subject: FW: California VHF frequencies (UNCLASSIFIED) Classification: UNCLASSIFIED Caveats: NONE Dennis, are wo good on this? Or can I assist you some more? Stu -----Original Message----- From: Smith, Dewayne Mr CTR USA Sent: Wednesday, January 23, 2008 8:11 AM To: Carter, Stuart S Mr CIV USA NETCOM/9TH SC A; Griffin, Jim E Mr CIV USA NETCOM/9TH SC A Cc: AAA9A Stu Home ; AAA9CA Patrick Smith Subject: California VHF frequencies Good Morning Stu: yesterday I intercepted an e-mail from Dennis McCord AFA6AY. I sent an e-mail and requested that he gave me a phone call and he complied. We discuss the problem about the California repeaters and I suggested to him that we do has requested by the three chiefs and share resources.Because I could see no reason to have more than one repeat are at the same site because it was a waste.He agreed and is going to get Ahold of our SMD in California and work this out.when I talk to Pat Smith the SMD in California the stated that he would have no problem sharing the repeat and he would make very sure that they have all the time slots that they require for their nets. Thank you Smitty Dewayne(smitty)Smith AAA9F MARS Frequency Coordinator NETCOM/9th Signal Command Current Operations (G3) "Army MARS ; Voice of the Army" Akima Facilities Management 821-7324 DSN (520) 533-7324 Classification: UNCLASSIFIED Caveats: NONE

Expect interference from Army MARS using [the primary repeater frequencies] in the N-SOCAL areas. Particularly, Corona and Mt. Disappointment coverage areas.  (Palos Verde and Victorville, in SOCAL, will be rendered nearly useless as a result of this interference).  Interim solutions is to add CTCSS tones to the machines to prevent the interference from passing through the system.  This will require tone decoder use on the receivers to quiet the audio when our machines are not being used by compliant members. As you can see we have had no appropriate response from HQ AFCA ...(MARS) to our earlier inquiries into this matter. Circa 2006 to date.  It appears that no action has been taken on the "HOT" repeater update, also circa 2006, we all submitted to maintain our existing systems and sites. 

I trust you all kept record copies should the documentation become evidence to support our case.

There have been three AF chiefs or maybe two with one near miss and none have addressed this issue.

I have attached the first documents I received .  These were forwarded to HQ AFCA (MARS) immediately upon receipt along with our request for validation of our VHF repeater assignments/applications. 

The so called "HOT" directive was sent at the end of MR. Collins reign and during MSGT Poquette's tenure...

I have no explaniation as to why the AF was not informed (or consulted) of this action by the Army FMO at either Ft Huachua or Ft Sam Houston.

The past CA Army MARS director(s) were well aware of the AF systems and their locations, including being open to their use. 

I will make no attempt to explain HQ lack of action/response to opur repeater applications or the loss of our long time repeater assignments.  The Frequency and Utilization manual, 5-1 dated 1985 and all subsequent frequency assignments have been a continuous allocation to AF MARS. The use of these frequencies extend much further back in time...The late 60s at least.

Ken Mulkey, AFF6C

Region 6 MARS Director


Please forward to all Region 6 Affiliates for inclusion in their USAF MOI and the Training Manuals

ALL requests for new affiliate AF MARS licenses and renewals of existing member licenses, AF form 3666s. will be processed through the RMD using an AF form 3661 to include a copy of renewed FCC license. Mailing and email address below.

Candidates who successfully complete Training will be documented on an AF form 3661. The SMD will forward the AF form 3661 to the RMD who will generate a new Military Affiliate Radio Station License, AF form 3661 and forward the form to HQ for signature. The signed form will then be sent to the new affiliate w/copy to the distribution list in the MOI.

As stated in the Chief's Message only the AF MARS Chief is granted Signature Authority for this document.

The same signature authority applies to Terminations of affiliates for non participation, resignation or Transfer approval etc..I/A/W USAF MOI Dec 2005.

Note: Candidates who do not complete training or otherwise "drop out" will simply be dropped from the training program and the same MOI rules for reinstatement will apply as one who is terminated for non participation or resigned from the program.

AF6O will archive the individuals record/information in the region data base and note their status in the "remarks" section. Hard copy of the individuals personal information will be destroyed. Preferably by shredding and disposing of the residue as appropriate.

Ken Mulkey, Civ USAF MARS
AFF6C Region 6 MARS Director.
6608 Pickford Lane
Las Vegas, NV 89107-2425
Ph. (702) 870-4112
email: [email protected]

---------- Forwarded Message ---------- All, I've received several inquiries referencing the issuance of new AF MARS Licenses and the renewal of existing licenses. USAF MARS Operating Instructions, paragraph 1.2.2.7.4, in part states, Chief AF MARS "issues AF Forms 3666, Military Affiliate Radio System Station License", which means, Chief AF MARS is the issuing authority for the MARS License. I'd be leery of having the RMDs sign the AF-3666s IAW some of the rumors I've heard. There are several options with the current stock of AF Forms 3666; 1. RMDs fill out the license form and forward to HQ for signature and disposition, 2. RMDs process the form as in option 1 above, HQ will sign the forms and return to RMDs for disposition, 3. RMDs forward the information electronically to HQ for printing, signing and disposition. 4. A combination of the above. I have neither a template for printing the AF-3666s, easily resolvable, nor very many of the forms themselves, a possible show stopper. The AF Form 3666 is no longer listed with AF Forms and Publications therefore, I assume when the current stock is exhausted we will be unable to replenish! Assuming a sufficient supply of the AF-3666 forms and a good template for filling in the appropriate information, they could/should be processed and posted from HQ (Official Business). We could do the majority of the processing via the web, they could then be signed, printed and posted to the individual licensees from HQ with copies going back to the RMDs via email. Save the RMDs the cost of postage and handling the paper. Another option for new licenses would be to create a new license form, along the lines of the ARRL membership certificate and ID, printed in color on standard weight paper, then processed. As an option for license renewal, we could extend the current license expiration date, with an amendment to the original Station License, printed on standard letter paper, signed here at HQ and posted to the licensee with electronic copies to the RMDs. For now, send me the completed forms and we'll process and post them. I'll need copies of the AF-3661s or at least a mailing address for the licensees to complete the process. I'll work on the template issue with Adobe Acrobat and maybe we can do most of the process electronically! Any ideas or suggestions on the AF 3666 issue would be appreciated. Unfortunately, we do not have a budget and don't anticipate any AF funds for the MARS program in the near or distant future. We will continue to operate sans funds and with the good will and support of the membership, which, by the way, is greatly appreciated! There also have been several questions asked about the Joint Voice SOP. I'll be releasing an email shortly to the national staff officially endorsing the new SOP and with a transition date of 1 January 2008. Al Eiermann Chief, AF MARS (Pending) DoD Teleport Air Force Lead Command Satellite Communications Manager HQ AFCA/ESLM (MARS/DoD Teleport) 203 West Losey Street Scott AFB, IL 62225 DSN: 779-5964 (618) 229-5964 FAX (618) 256-8673
---------- Forwarded Message ---------- Harry, All of your MARS colleagues here in the CONUS wish you and all of your group a Happy Thanksgiving and a big THANKS for what you are doing there in Iraq. I am forwarding your message to all of the guys so they can share your greeting. As I keep telling you, please be careful and keep safe. We are looking forward to your return early next year. Thanks again. Best 73's Claude ----- Original Message ----- From: <harry.marsters@krab.centaf.af.mil> To: <k9pgw@embarqmail.com> Sent: Wednesday, November 21, 2007 11:10 PM Subject: Thanksgiving Greetings Claude, Pls pass on my holiday greetings to all of our team! It's an honor to be here in Iraq doing my little part in helping to bring peace and rebuild their Air Force. It's also an honor to serve with the many MARS members who stand ready to serve when the need arises, whether from natural disaster or manmade disasters. Happy Thanksgiving to all! 73 Harry/AFN1EC v/r //SIGNED// HARRY L. MARSTERS II, CMSgt, USAF First Sergeant/Superintendent 506th Expeditionary Communications Squadron Kirkuk Regional Air Base, Iraq W-DSN 318-444-2011 H- DSN 318-444-2327 NIPR: harry.marsters@krab.centaf.af.mil SIPR: harry.marsters@krab.centaf.af.smil.mil
Please post and pass on to Region 6 affiliates. I have sent our condolences.
Ken AFF6C
---------- Forwarded Message ---------- To All friends and colleagues of Allen Smith AFA3HW/AFN3AT After receiving a phone call from Linda Smith AFA3LK this afternoon, I regret to inform you of the passing of Allen Smith AFA3HW formerly AFN3AT. Allen was a good friend to many and his dedicated service to all MARS systems will be remembered and respected. Allen dedicated many hours of service and many dollars worth of his personal equipment developing a system of linked PACTOR Bulletin Boards which efficiently served all three services MARS. Allen succumbed to an aneurysm last evening after undergoing several weeks of chemotherapy for lung cancer. He will be missed. Funeral service will be held at 10:30 AM Thursday 15 Nov. at the Chapel Oaks Funeral Home in Hoyt Kansas. Cards and memorial gifts may be sent to: Allen Smith Memorial Chapel Oaks Funeral Home Hoyt Kansas 66440 Signed Connie Steinel AFF3C Region 3 MARS Director

Again It is time to do some adapting to frequency change and net continuity based on Radio Spectrum Environment. Nee Band Conditions.

The following web site will provide you with a snap shot look at the "best available frequency" for our net frequency and operating periods. The window of concern to us is between 0000 and 0500Z or 1700 and 2000 Pacific time.

The site is: www.ips.gov.au/HF_Systems/4/1/2.

Mike, you and your NCS stations, can review this site and call the net accordingly, using a liaison station to announce/relay/inform stations not on the NCS selected frequency to be advised where the net is operating. You will find that RQ has been the "best usable" recommended for the last fseveral days

This message is for all Region 6 affiliates so they will be informed of the possible location of the net using this site as a "best frequency reference". The prediction may have some variables and the members will have to observe the normal frequencies to actually locate the net if there is a variation in the Radio Spectrum Environment.


All, As most of you know, Harry Marsters AFN1EC was deployed last week to Iraq on a 6 month TDY.
He has included a couple of pictures, which are attached. It's tough duty over there in the big sand box so I want to share his email address with you so can drop him an email and say howdy.
It is: [email protected].

Ken M AFF6C -------------------------------------------------------- Hi All is well here, except for the extremely long hours right now as we transition the other team out. Spending a lot of late nights at the airhead! All is going well. Takes a week or 2 to get settled into a rhythm but we're getting there! Hope all is quiet in the states! Give my best to the TRANSCON Team! Before we know it It'll be mid Jan and I'll be packing and headed back to Maine! Home away from home! 73 to all! Harry v/r //SIGNED// HARRY L. MARSTERS II, CMSgt, USAF First Sergeant/Chief Enlisted Manager 506th Expeditionary Communications Squadron DSN 318-444-2011
DSC01397.JPG, DSC01409.JPG
Acting Chief's response to the message to destroy affilate equipment issue records!

Ken Mulkey, Civ USAF MARS
Region 6 AF MARS Director, AFF6C
---------- Forwarded Message ---------- Any destruction of documentation will lose continuity of any program. strongly advise against destroying those documents and rescind the declaration described in the enclosed email below- until my office has had time to assess this program. My office just adopted MARS and needs time to assess the historical/current status of MARS. I realize that most/all of this issued equipment is outdated, and the Air Force, in all probability doesn't want it back, however, it is my understanding it is still accountable Government property, and it's on someone's hand receipt! Don P. developed an Access Data Base with, among other things, equipment issue records here at the HQ. I have/am looking over the records/documents that transitioned to me and have not yet found anything authorizing us to do away with equipment inventory/records. What documentation do you have authorizing us (USAF MARS administration) to rescind the need to maintain equipment issue documents and stop tracking equipment issue and transfers? I'm the new guy on the block here so please enlighten me! Tnx Regards Al Al Eiermann Chief, USAF MARS (Pending) DoD Teleport Air Force Lead Command Satellite Communications Manager DSN: 779-5964 (618) 229-5964 FAX (618) 256-8673 XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX Enclosed Email XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX ----- Original Message ----- From: W.C. Steward Sent: 9/1/2007 4:24:20 PM Subject: Anyone know anything about this ? Have you seen this? Wonder if its all regions? Effective 01 Sept 2007 all USAF MARS issued equipment is considered surplus and will no longer be accountable. All equipment records will be destroyed unless an individual station would like to have the information. Any question please contact AFF2TN at wb4tdb at aol dot com. Respectfully, Vollie Miller, NA4C/AFA2MZ/AFF2TN
---------- Forwarded Message ---------- All Regional Managers, Please put out the word to the membership of my pending appointment as Chief Air Force MARS. I'll forward the Official Appointment Letter via the chain of command upon receipt from management. I'll apologize up front for any confusion to AF MARS community about the changes here at HQ, enough said... All policies and directives in effect during Chief Poquette's tour will remain in place until further notice. All new license requests, renewals, equipment issue, etc are on hold until further notice. Any critical appointments, issues will be addressed on a case by case basis. Since this is an additional duty assignment and not my primary responsibility, I can neither guarantee how much time I'll devote to AF MARS nor how long it will take to clear the paperwork backlog since Chief Poquette's departure. The amount of time and effort I'll devote to AF MARS will, in part, be influenced by the positive support I receive from the membership and the Regional Managers. I realize this is primarily a volunteer organization; however, I expect professionalism at all levels and for now, prefer correspondence to be through the chain and via email. I don't care for "flaming" or hate emails and normally will not respond to the sender. I consider that to be unprofessional behavior for which I have a low tolerance and it will be noted. I look forward to working with the directors/managers and membership to continue promoting AF MARS and the DoD MARS programs. Regards, Allen C. Eiermann Chief, AF MARS (Pending) Air Force Communications Agency (AFCA-ECLM) 203 W. Losey St, Room 3100 Scott AFB, IL 62225-5222 DSN: 779-5964 (618) 229-5964 FAX (618) 256-8673 afca.mars@scott.af.mil or Allen.Eiermann@scott.af.mil DoD Teleport Air Force Lead Command Satellite Communications Manager DSN: 779-5964 (618) 229-5964 FAX (618) 256-8673
All please note the "New Chief" still has No Signature authority so don't create a log jam of Training, Terminations, AF form 3661/3666 or other personnel actions.
The equipment issue program is still completely suspended until further notice.
Thanks
Ken Mulkey, AFF6C ---------- Forwarded Message ---------- All, My apologies to all, however, I was just informed of this additional duty appointment myself last week, so it's been a wee bit hectic! My appointment letter has not been officially signed by the Commander and released, so until that time I'm in the "acting mode"! I was also informed of and encouraged to attend, the MARS Forum at Huntsville this weekend so I made some hurried travel arrangements last week and will be in attendance. This will give me a chance to meet with the MARS leadership from the other services and meet face to face with AF MARS members that may be in attendance. I thank you for the support you have given to AF MARS and hope you will work with me in promoting the MARS, especially Air Force, program. Hope to see/meet you in Huntsville! Regards, Al Al Eiermann Chief, AF MARS (Pending) Air Force Communications Agency (AFCA-ECLM) 203 W. Losey St, Room 3100 Scott AFB, IL 62225-5222 DSN: 779-5964 (618) 229-5964 FAX (618) 256-8673 afca.mars@scott.af.mil or Allen.Eiermann@scott.af.mil -----Original Message----- From: Phil [mailto:k4ozn@charter.net] Sent: Sunday, August 12, 2007 10:58 PM To: Eiermann, Allen C Civ AFCA/ECWM Cc: AFF8C Cal Higa (AFA8CH); AFF1C John Ferguson (AFF1DE/AFA1SQ); AFF3C Conrad Steinel (AFA3VP); AFF4C George Dykes (AFA4GD); AFF5C Tom Evans (AFA5GI); AFF6C Ken Mulkey (AFA6KM)) Subject: FW: MARS at Huntsville Pardon me, but we in the field find this a little embarrassing to discover from several quarters without a word from our own HQ that our AF MARS Chief will be present at the Huntsville Fest meetings with other national officials. Is this true?? How about some formal announcement from AF of a new Chief?? The silence is deafening. Regard, Philip Salley, AFF2D Acting R2 Director DE AAA9PC NR 006 R 121440Z AUG 2007 Fm: Army MARS Public Affairs Director/AAA9PC MA To: All Army MARS RDs, SDs. Officers and Webmasters Info: Chief Navy-Marine Corps MARS, Chief Air Force MARS BT Subj: ARRL National Convention/Huntsville (AL) Hamfest 16-19 AUG 1. The following information is for dissemination to members, MARS web sites/bulletin boards, and local media if desired. 2. Chief Stu Carter and Operations Chief Grant Hays, joined by the newly appointed Chief of Air Force MARS Allen Eiermann, will lead the MARS team at a series of meetings on emergency operations this week sponsored by the American Radio Relay League. 3. At the Global Amateur Radio Emergency Communications Conference preceding the ARRL convention, Chiefs Carter and Eiermann will be panelists in the Thursday session on B"Partners in Emergency Response,B" along with officers of the ARRL, American Red Cross, Salvation Army Team Emergency Radio Network (SATERN) and several other disaster response groups. This is the second GAREC conference, following a 2005 session in Finland organized after the Indian Ocean tsunami catastrophe. 4. The two chiefs will then be lead speakers at the HamfestB's Joint Service MARS Forum on Saturday. A message will be read from Navy-Marine Corps MARS Chief Bo Lindfors, who cannot attend. Later that day Carter and Eiermann will be panelists at the Hamfest session on Public Service. The MARS team will wind up the busy weekB's participation Sunday morning with a closed briefing for ARRLB's senior leadership. 5. The high-visibility role at Huntsville follows a series of informal contacts between Army MARS and the ARRL aimed at fostering collaboration on emergency response. This present focus dates back to a MARS-ARES-RACES Interoperability Conference organized by New York Army MARS in November 2004. (Actually, the very first collaboration took place in 1925 when two U.S. Army Signal Corps officers visited ARRL headquarters in Connecticut seeking Amateur RadioB's assistance in emergencies. Out of that was born the Army-Amateur Radio System, as MARS was known up to World War II.) 6. Especial thanks for their dedicated and meticulous work organizing MARS participation go to Wayne Collins AAA4AL, David Dobbs AAR4LX, and Doug Hilton AAV4YP, who is also ARES AL district 6 Emergency Coordinator. 7. Widest dissemination requested. Sgd/ Bill Sexton AAA9PC BT
ARMY FM Message: Info Only!

THIS IS NOT OFFICIAL USAF POLICY!

THIS IS AN ARMY MESSAGE. It is not compliant with Department of Commerce Policy as stated in NTIA Directives. Remember, All Federal Agnecies, which DoD is part, are required to comply with NTIA Policy. Not FCC Policy. Certainly not CAP policy.

This Message is INFO ONLY.
THERE IS NO CHANGE IN USAF NARROW BAND COMPLIANCE WITH NTIA REGULATIONS/DIRECTIVES!
Until there is an Official Message determining what our requirements will be, I believe the Date is still 31 Dec 2008

Ken Mulkey, Civ. USAF MARS
Region 6 Director -------- Forwarded Message ---------- R 2130Z AUGUST 2007 NR 034 FM: CHIEF ARMY MARS/AAA9A AZ TO: ALL ARMY MARS RDS / SDS / OFFICERS / AND ARMY MARS MEMBERS SUBJ: CAM 37-07 NTIA STANDARDS FOR ARMY MARS BT AAA9O SENDS FOR CHIEF ARMY MARS 1. To clarify growing confusion among the Army MARS Force regarding NTIA standards and published/rumored dates of implementation, Army MARS members will not be effected by those changing NTIA standards. Army MARS members do not have to comply with "any" published deadline dates for implementation. 2. In particular there was a CAM in 2005 that Chief Sutton published. Though it was valid at that time, it is no longer valid--things change over time. Though the CAP website discusses NTIA compliance issues and dates, The CAP has no control/impact over what Army MARS does. The CAP falls under control of the Air Force, Army MARS doesn't. 3. So, I'll repeat, "No Army MARS member will need change any equipment in any way to meet any rumored or published NTIA changes." 4. This message supercedes "all" other Army MARS messages on this subject. 5. I thank the Army MARS Force for your professionalism and dedication! You ARE Truly Awesome!! BT STUART S. CARTER Chief, Army MARS, AAA9A -and- Deputy Director, Current Operations (G3) NETCOM/9th Signal Command (Army) Fort Huachuca, AZ "Army MARS - Voice of the Army"
---------- Forwarded Message ---------- Everyone, I am writing you to inform you that I will be transitioning the MARS Chief position over to Mr. Al Eiermann here at AFCA this week. Al has prior MARS experience with the Navy and will serve the MARS community very well. An official letter will be forthcoming. Al's contact info is: Mr. Allen.Eiermann 618-229-5964 (work) Allen.Eiermann@scott.af.mil Jeffrey T. Kirkley, MSgt, USAF PWCS Lead Command Support Chief, AF MARS Air Force Communications Agency / ECWI 203 W. Losey Street, Room 3100 Scott Air Force Base, IL 62225-5222 Voice: DSN 779-5791 / Comm: 618-229-5791 Office: DSN 779-5323 / Comm: 618-229-5323 Fax: DSN 779-5792 / Comm: 618-229-5792 Email: jeffrey.kirkley@us.af.mil
Information only.
The New Chief is assimilating...
Thanks.
Ken Mulkey, AFF6C
---------- Forwarded Message ---------- Regional Managers, I'm sure many of you already know this, but this week I was informed that one of our beloved members passed away - Mr. Vic Carson. I am still getting my hands around MARS and frankly don't really know how to proceed from here on finding a replacement for Vic (Region 2 Manager and National Training Manager). Please advise on how to proceed on this matter. Additionally, a letter from AFCA stating I am the new AF MARS Chief is in the works and should be sent out in the next week or so. In the meantime, if there is anything I need to be aware of or I need to address, please sent it my way. I look forward to working with each of you and getting to know you as we continue to support the MARS mission. Thanks. Jeffrey T. Kirkley, MSgt, USAF PWCS Lead Command Support Chief, AF MARS Air Force Communications Agency / ECWI 203 W. Losey Street, Room 3100 Scott Air Force Base, IL 62225-5222 Voice: DSN 779-5791 / Comm: 618-229-5791 Office: DSN 779-5323 / Comm: 618-229-5323 Fax: DSN 779-5792 / Comm: 618-229-5792 Email: jeffrey.kirkley@us.af.mil
Wed 7/25/2007 9:31 AM
Ken Mulkey, AFF6C
USAF MARS Region 6 Director ---------- Forwarded Message ---------- Bob, Please release the following to all hands. It is with great pleasure I announce that AF MARS now has a new Chief. MSgt Jeffrey Kirkley has been appointed to that position. Jeff is a career ground radio man, but admittedly has little knowledge of the MARS program. In speaking with him he displays a positive can do attitude, but begs for time to get up to speed. Accordingly the surplus property program will remain on hold. The Chief should begin communicating with us very soon. Regards, Philip Salley / AFF2D