Information flows at town hall meeting

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Kali L. Gradishar
  • 39th Air Base Wing Public Affairs
INCIRLIK AIR BASE, Turkey --  In an open forum to communicate information to and receive feedback from members of Team Incirlik, Col. Eric Beene, 39th Air Base Wing commander, hosted a town hall meeting June 28 in the Club Complex, Incirlik Air Base, Turkey.

Approximately 50 people attended the town hall, a quarterly event, to hear recent updates from various base agencies to include safety, community services, and antiterrorism and force protection, as well as the 39th Medical Group, the 39th Communication Squadron, and a representative from the Caring for People Forum.

The town hall began with an introduction from Colonel Beene, who highlighted some of the important topics currently affecting Team Incirlik - from AT/FP and graffiti concerns to changes in the Department of Defense budget and rumor control.

"Not a day goes by that I don't think about the safety and security of the people on this base," Colonel Beene said. Countries and areas are put off limits for a reason, and Americans often stand out easily.

"Do your best to blend in," he said.

Staff Sgt. Lisa Pope, 39th ABW AT/FP, reiterated that sentiment by explaining why it's necessary to be aware of dress and appearance, even when off-base and out of uniform. She advised people to be respectful of the local culture by not revealing too much skin and not wearing labeling clothing such as an American Flag T-shirt or the college baseball cap.

Reasonable behavior is also an important factor in not standing out when in a foreign country, Sergeant Pope said. "If you're going to drink... behave yourself. You don't want to be that guy... You want to blend in as much as possible."

One subject that brought a number of comments and questions was the shipping of items through the Official Document Center. People are reminded that shipping certain items may require the accompaniment of proper documentation stating the item is not an antique.

"One of the most common things we see is Turkish carpets or Turkish rugs," said Maj. Patrick Daniel, 39th CS commander.

With summer activities abounding at Incirlik, safety issues were also a hot topic at the town hall.

People riding bicycles must have the proper equipment while riding to include lights, reflectors and a reflective belt or vest while riding during hours of darkness.

Also, headphones or ear buds are not authorized while operating a bicycle, as wearing them "greatly increases your chances of getting injured," said Maj. Jason Redlin, 39th ABW chief of safety. Another issue is skateboards, which "have been a hot topic as of late."

The proper protective equipment is required while riding a skateboard. They are also not allowed on most roads on base.

Other safety notes included reminding people that motorized scooters are not authorized on base. Also, driving a moped requires the same certifications and licenses as riding a motorcycle. Lack of proper documentation may result in punitive actions.

Other topics included the following:

- Parents are advised to get school physicals for their children over the summer rather than waiting until right before the start of the next school year.
- Tuberculosis tests are required for everyone leaving Turkey, however, the 39th MDG advises receiving the test at the gaining base.
- The Caring for People Forum received a number of requests that are being sent up the change of command for review and possible implementation. Forum coordinators are hoping for an even better turnout of people at the next event.
- The 39th Force Support Squadron offers $5 trips to locations such as the mall, out to dinner and other locations.
- The 39th FSS has two new projects of note: Gift cards are now available for purchase and redemption at various non-appropriated fund facilities. For a list of facilities, visit Gift cards now available at FSS facilities. The squadron is also planning a community use bike program, aimed at providing ease of transportation to and from frequently-used facilities on base.

We use forums like this to tell members of Team Incirlik about changes around the base," said Colonel Beene as he concluded the event. If you're unsure about something, "do not suffer in silence. Ask somebody."