The following magistrate court citations were closed out during the first quarter of 2024: 

• 84 civilians were cited for speeding. They received an average fine of $250.
• 18 civilians were cited for not having proof of insurance or registration. They received an average fine of $305.
• Six civilians were cited for not having their drivers’ licenses in possession. They received an average fine of $242. 
• Seven civilians were cited for failure to stop. They received an average fine of $171. 
• Five civilians were cited for not having a child restraint for a child under 8 years old. They received an average fine of $405.
• Four civilians were cited for possession of a controlled substance. They received an average fine of $430.
• Two civilians were cited for trespassing. They received an average fine of $3,500.
• Two civilians were cited for having an open container of alcohol while driving. They received an average fine of $405. 
• Two civilians were cited for driving without wearing a seatbelt. They received an average fine of $405.
• A civilian was cited for cellphone use while driving. They were fined $238. 
• A civilian was cited for having no license plate on the vehicle. They were fined $133.
• A civilian was cited for allowing a minor to drive. They were fined $268.
• A civilian was cited for driving recklessly. They were fined $171.

Nonjudicial punishment (NJP) (also referred to as an Article 15, in reference to the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) which authorizes the action) is a tool that provides commanders with an essential and swift means of maintaining good order and discipline. A member must accept NJP as a forum for allegations of misconduct or demand trial by court-martial once NJP is offered by a commander. NJP is designed to promote behavioral changes in service members without the stigma that comes with a criminal conviction at trial. NJP lies between a Letter of Reprimand and a court-martial on the spectrum of the continuum of discipline, whose ultimate goal is to promote rehabilitation in service members to encourage them to adhere to standards.

The following NJPs were effectuated at Edwards AFB during the first quarter of 2024:

• A Staff Sergeant (E-5) assigned to 412 AMXS committed abusive sexual contact in violation of Article 120, UCMJ (Abusive Sexual Contact). The member received a reduction to the grade of Senior Airman (E-4) and a reprimand.
• A First Lieutenant (O-2) assigned to 412 HCOS engaged in an unprofessional relationship and fraternization, failed to obey orders, and lied to investigators in violation of Articles 92 (Failure to Obey, Dereliction of Duty), 107 (False Official Statement), and Article 134 (Fraternization), UCMJ. The member was punished with forfeiture of $2,386.00 pay per month for two months and a reprimand.
• A Technical Sergeant (E-6) assigned to 412 HCOS engaged in an unprofessional relationship, failed to obey orders, and was derelict in their duties in violation of Article 92 (Failure to Obey, Dereliction of Duty), UCMJ. The member was punished with a reduction to the grade of Staff Sergeant (E-5), forfeiture of $1,829.00 pay, suspended, and a reprimand.
• A Senior Airman (E-4) assigned to 412 HCOS used THC-9 in violation of Article 112b (Wrongful Use of a Controlled Substance), UCMJ. The member was punished with a reduction to the grade of Airman First Class (E-3) and a reprimand.
• An Airman First Class (E-3) assigned to 412 OMRS altered their military ID card by changing the date of birth in violation of Article 105a, UCMJ (False or Unauthorized Pass). The member was punished with a reduction to the grade of Airman (E-2) and a reprimand.
• A Senior Airman (E-4) assigned to 412 SFS was absent from duty numerous times and lied about going to numerous medical appointments in violation of Articles 86 (AWOL) and Article 107 (False Official Statement), UCMJ. The member was punished with a reduction to the grade of Airman Basic (E-1), forfeiture of $1,008.00 pay, suspended, and a reprimand.

Involuntarily discharging a service member from the United States Air Force may be an appropriate action for a commander or civilian director to take when a member has demonstrated an inability to meet Air Force standards. Common basis for discharge include, but are not limited to: drug abuse, sexual assault, a civilian court conviction, or a series of minor misconduct. Discharges can result in one of three service characterizations: honorable, under honorable conditions (general), and under other than honorable conditions.

The following discharge action was completed during the first quarter of 2024:

• A Senior Airman (E-4) assigned to 412 AMXS was involuntarily discharged for sexual assault. The member received an under other than honorable (UOTHC) service characterization.
• A Senior Airman (E-4) assigned to 812 CES was involuntarily discharged for a Condition that Interfered with Military Service (Adjustment Disorder). The member received an honorable service characterization.
• An Airmen First Class (E-2) assigned to 412 OSS was involuntarily discharged for Conditions that Interfered with Military Service (Adjustment Disorder). The members received honorable service characterization.

WHAT: The California Department of Transportation (Caltrans) has schedule Lane Closures on the northbound and southbound Antelope Valley Freeway (SR-14) between Technology Drive in Palmdale and Avenue A in Lancaster, closing up to three lanes. Northbound SR-14 has two lanes open: one lane on the Southbound side and one lane on the Northbound side for the Crossover from Avenue H to Avenue A. There are Long Term Closures of Northbound On- & Off-ramps at Avenues L, G and F, Avenue D On-ramp & Avenue A Off-ramp. 
Opened Dec. 14: On- & Off-ramps at Avenue N
WHY: The closures are necessary to perform pavement replacement, inside shoulder work and set K-rail that will extend the life of the existing lanes by a minimum of 40 years
and improve ride quality.
WHEN: Currently, construction work is on-going Monday through Thursday, 7 p.m. to 6 a.m. and Friday through Saturday, 9 p.m. to 7 a.m. to minimize traffic impacts.
Monday-Thursday, Jan. 13-16, 7 p.m. - 6 a.m. 
Full Freeway Closure: Northbound SR-14 Avenue N – Avenue K      
Thursday, Nov. 21 – Early August 2025
Southbound SR-14 Crossover from Avenue H – Avenue A  

The repaving project will transition to lane restriping during daylight hours prior to 3:30 daily beginning approximately April 29. This will also result in moving lane closures that may cause temporary traffic stoppage.

Drivers should anticipate significant traffic delays on Rosamond Blvd. throughout the length of the repaving project, which Kern County officials expect to last through the end of May or early June.

Look to The Tower for updates on future phases of the road project.

For more information, please contact the Public Affairs Office at 661-277-3510.

North gate: open 24/7
West gate: open 24/7
South gate: 
South Gate will be closed in observation of federal holidays, designated Family Days and associated weekends.
Special hours will be announced in the event of road closures due to construction or improvement projects.

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 14 at 9 a.m. PST
Learn how to use MyVector Mentoring platform to find a mentor and be a mentor in this live demonstration
Microsoft Teams

WHERE: Base Library
WHEN: Tuesdays, 4:30 – 6:30 p.m.
January 14 – Cinema Fans Meetup
January 21 – Cosplay Day
January 28 – Adult Show and Tell
WHAT: Get your geek on at Nerdy Tuesdays at the Library! For ages 18+, each week brings a new theme. Come for the fun, stay for the fandoms!
CONTACT: 275-BOOK

Linda Phillips-Bell, 412th Comptroller Squadron, retires after 20 years of civil service and a total of 40 years serving the Department of Defense
WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 15 at 2 p.m. 
WHERE: Club Muroc, Alliance Room
CONTACT: Margaret Baiza (margaret.baiza@us.af.mil or 661-277-9548) or Desiree Quezada (desiree.quezada@us.af.mil or 661-275-3480) 

WHAT: Monthly forums with supervisors of civilians 
WHEN: Third Thursday of the month, 10-10:30 a.m. 
CONTACT: AFTC.Enterprise.Recruiting@us.af.mil
HOW: Join Microsoft Teams Meeting
Conference ID: 408 416 887#
Call 410-874-6740 to join audio only. 

WHEN: Friday-Sunday, Jan. 17-19
COST: $375
SIGN UP: by Jan. 10
WHAT: Discover the wonders of Joshua Tree National Park on this guided camping adventure! Enjoy serene desert nights, iconic landscapes, and a chance to learn the basics of camping as we provide all equipment, campground fees, and transportation.
CONTACT: 275-CAMP 

WHERE: Auto Hobby
WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18, 12 - 2 p.m.
COST: $20
WHAT: Learn basic roadside repairs such as: replacing a spare tire, plugging a tire, jump starting a vehicle, and installing tire chains. Class includes tire plug kit for people to take home!
CONTACT: 275-AUTO 

WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 18 and March 22, 12-2- p.m.
WHERE: Base Library
WHAT: Bring in your scrapbooks and use our materials to work on projects!
CONTACT: 275-BOOK 

WHEN: Wednesday, Jan. 22 at 10 a.m. PST
A diverse panel of military and civilian leaders who will share their personal stories on the transformative power.
Microsoft Teams

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 23 at 11 a.m.
Gain tools and knowledge to make informed decisions, build trust, and foster a culture of integrity within your team
Microsoft Teams Invite Link

WHO: FSS Insiders
WHEN: Every Friday
UPCOMING: Friday, Jan. 24
WHERE: Club Muroc
WHAT: FSS Insiders will receive a ticket for a chance to win $25. All FSS Insiders are then entered into a drawing for $100. If the selected winner is not present, the jackpot rolls over to the next week at an increase of $50 until the winnings are claimed.

WHAT: Hit the slopes with a thrilling day to Mammoth Mountain! Enjoy skiing or snowboarding with transportation, lift tickets, and all gear - ski or snowboard, poles and boots - included. 
WHEN: Saturday, Jan. 25, Feb. 8 and March 1
COST: $250 ($30 R4R)
SIGNUP: by Jan. 25, Jan. 31 or Feb. 21

This course is designed to leverage the skills and knowledge of experienced leaders to advance our senior enlisted corps. The goal is to provide Flight Chiefs expanded knowledge on important subjects commonly associated with the Flight Chief Role. Topics include Enlisted Career Management, Resource Management, Manpower, Personnel and Superintendent Level Writing.
WHERE: Bldg. 2024, Room A
REGISTRATION: https://teamup.com/ksy5zdj7ji3bwyajq8
CONTACT: douglas.cox.9@us.af.mil or serena.johnson.4@us.af.mil 

WHEN: Tuesday, Jan. 28 at 7 a.m. PST
Learn about resources available to become a better mentor and mentee and enhance the impact of your mentoring relationships
Microsoft Teams

WHEN: Thursday, Jan. 30 at 8 a.m. PST
Through live demos, learn how these differing methodologies can impact your professional and personal development
Microsoft Teams

WHAT: Open discussions, real talk, real insight
WHY: The Chiefs are here to guide you!
WHEN: Last Friday of each month, 3-4:30 p.m. 
UPCOMING = Friday, Jan. 31, 3-4:30 p.m. 
WHERE: Club Muroc 
WHO: Team Edwards. We encourage anyone to attend and engage in open discussions, real talk, and real insights.

WHEN: Saturdays, Feb. 1 and March 1, noon-2 p.m. 
WHERE: Auto Hobby
COST: $10. Participants must bring their own oil and filter. 
WHAT: Take control of your vehicle's maintenance with this workshop. Develop practical skills and gain confidence in performing oil changes and using a 2-post lifting like a pro! 

WHEN: Friday, Feb. 7, 6:30-10:30 p.m.
PRICE: $32 per child or free with a Give Parents a Break Voucher
SIGNUP: Register in the CYPBMS Parent Portal
WHO: Care will be provided for ages 6 months to 5 years old at the CDC, and ages 5-12 years old at the SAC. There is no requirement to be enrolled in Edwards Child & Youth Programs to utilize Parents’ Night Out or Give Parents a Break.

WHAT: Sip, socialize and let the good vibes flow. FREE appetizers for FSS Insiders. Progressive drawing (must be present to win). 
WHEN: Friday, Feb. 7, 4:30-6:30 p.m.
WHERE: Club Muroc 

WHAT: This is a great time to turn in excess IT assets, such as desktops, laptops, and tablets past their four-year lifecycle. Space is limited! No pickup will be available. All who are dropping off IT assets that are accountable and unaccountable need forms 5939’s with the correct account number and PC signature.
WHERE: 412 CS IT Warehouse, Bldg. 3930 45 North Wolf Ave.
WHEN: Thursday, Feb. 20,  8 a.m. - 2 p.m.
CONTACT: Asset Management at 7-3107 or visit https://usaf.dps.mil/sites/21658/slm/BSLM/SitePages/DRMO-Day.aspx for more information. 

WHEN: Fridays, 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Jan. 10: Ping Pong
Feb. 21: Billiards
March 14: Foosball
WHERE: Oasis Community Center
WHAT: Tournaments are double elimination with fewer of 10 entries or single elimination with 10 or more. Fun prizes and bragging rights await! ​Join for a chance to win a $25 FSS gift card

CATHOLIC
Mass AFRL | 2^nd Wednesday at noon
Higher Ground Cafe | 3^rd Wednesday at 5 p.m. 
Bible Study | Men: Sundays at noon | Dorm: Thursdays at 5:30 p.m. | Women: Wednesdays at 5:30 p.m. Chapel 2 Annex
Adoration Blessed Sacrament | 1^st Wednesday at 5 p.m. Chapel 2
Religious Education | Sundays at 10:30 a.m. 

PROTESTANT 
Bible Study Groups | Contact 412TW.HC.Workflow@us.af.mil

MUSLIM PRAYER
Fridays 12:30-2:30 p.m. at Chapel 1, Rooms 3 & 4 | Contact maitham.dakheel@us.af.mil

BUDDHIST
3^rd Saturday 4:30-5 p.m. at Chapel 2 Conference Room | Contact Ms. Dianna Kassing at 661-277-5415 

OTHER RELIGIOUS/SPIRITUAL BACKGROUNDS
Please contact the Main Chapel Office at 661-277-2110

PROTESTANT SERVICE (Chapel 1)
Sundays at 10 a.m. 

CATHOLIC SERVICE (Chapel 2)
Mass | Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays at 11:30 a.m. | Sundays at 9 a.m. and 4:30 p.m. 
Confessions (Room 5) | Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays 8:30-10:30 a.m. and 1:30-2:30 p.m. or by appointment

412th Security Forces Squadron suspended trusted traveler access to Edwards Air Force Base and Plant 42 beginning Jan. 3 following a U.S. Northern Command directive calling for increased vigilance and defensive measures.

The directive covers all U.S. facilities and installations in North America and is in response to the New Year’s Day attack in New Orleans and vehicle explosion in Las Vegas. Suspension of trusted traveler requires 100% ID checks at all base gates until further notice.

In New Orleans, an ISIS-inspired U.S. Army veteran sped a pickup truck through a crowd of early morning revelers on Bourbon Street, killing at least 14 people and injuring another 30. Two improvised explosive devices he had placed in the Bourbon Street area were later rendered safe by the FBI. Later that morning a Tesla Cybertruck carrying fireworks and camp fuel canisters blew up outside the Trump International Hotel in Las Vegas. The apparent PTSD-related explosion killed the driver, an active-duty Soldier and decorated combat veteran. Authorities have found no connection between the two events. 

“The recent incidents in New Orleans and Las Vegas are a reminder that terrorism, as well as home-grown attacks, remain a significant concern within the United States,” according to NORTHCOM officials. “Increased force protection for our military members and their families always requires constant consideration, vigilance and proactive measures.”

Contact supervisors for more information about specific work-area force protection measures.

MILITARY STAR_® --- Do you shop at the BX? Eat at the Edwards Air Force Base Exchange food court? Fill up at the Express? Order from ShopMyExchange.com? If you’re not using your MILITARY STAR card when you shop, you’re missing out on rewards. Earn two points for every $1 you spend with your card, including at the commissary, mall vendors and more. https://aafes.media/MilStarPA
SWEEPSTAKES --- 1️⃣ It’s almost the most wonderful time of year, and MILITARY STAR is making the holidays extra special by paying off balances in full. Every time Edwards Air Force Base shoppers use their MILITARY STAR card, they’ll be automatically entered into the 11^th annual Your Holiday Bill Is On Us Sweepstakes. 2️⃣ A holiday pet photo contest? You gotta be kitten us! Show off your festive furry friends for a chance at $3,000 in prizes. Send a photo of your pet in their holiday best at ShopMyExchange.com/sweepstakes from Dec. 1 through Dec. 31.
RETURN POLICY FOR HOLIDAYS --- Edwards Base Exchange offers military families extended time to return holiday gifts through Jan. 31 with a receipt if they were bought between Nov. 1 and Dec. 24. 

Attention Airmen and Guardians! Want to go to college? Need money for tuition? Scheduled a Tuition Assistance Brief. 
HOW: Visit https://calendly.com/education-and-training-specialist-edwards-afb, select a date/time that works for you, and register. 
CONTACT: litia.wilson@us.af.mil 

Thursday, Oct. 17, marked the official grand opening of the Edwards food pantry, Jimmie’s General Store. The name is a nod to the 412^th Force Support Squadron mascot, Jimmie the Jackalope, and the intent is to provide a welcoming and shopping-like environment for members of the Edwards community in need of food items. The store offers canned and dry goods, along with frozen and refrigerated items.

The food pantry is located in the Military and Family Readiness Center. Usage is needs-based and available to both military members and their families and DoD civilians. First sergeants from all units are designated food panty facilitators, and members who would like to use the food pantry should contact their first sergeant to arrange for access. Donations can either be dropped off at the M&FRC or by contacting one of the first sergeants. Additionally, the M&FRC point of contact is Ms. Jonishia Jones at 277-0723.

WHAT: One-hour orientation flight for non-members 
HOW MUCH: $245/hour 
WHO: One adult plus 2 children OR 2 adults 
CONTACT: 275-AERO 

The well-being and readiness of our service members is a top priority for the Defense Department. Over the past three years, Secretary of Defense Lloyd J. Austin III has taken action on issues critical to force and family stability, including securing affordable basic needs, making moves easier, strengthening support to families and expanding spousal employment. As of Sept. 13, 2024, the Secretary has ordered additional concrete steps to provide tangible support to our force and to tackle pressing problems our people face. The new actions are sourced directly from service members' experiences and will further ensure the well-being and success of our force, so they can focus on their mission. For more information, visit the Military One Source website (https://www.militaryonesource.mil/financial-legal/personal-finance/taking-care-of-people/)

----- Portable heaters
When the weather turns cold, it can brig a chill into our homes. Portable space heaters have become a popular way to supplement central heating or heat one room. CLICK to learn tips and recommendations if you plan to use an electric portable heater. 
----- Wildfire risk reduction 
Every year, wildfires burn across the U.S., and more and more people are living where wildfires are a real risk. But by working together, residents can make their own property — and their neighborhood — much safer from wildfire. CLICK to learn about action items to improve homes' survivability, landscaping tips and a word search activity for children. 
----- Be fire-safe in the kitchen
1. Stay in the kitchen when frying food or cooking with oil or grease.

2. Never cook when you are tired.

3. To put out a pan fire, slide a lid over the pan. Turn off the stove and let the pan cool.

4. If you have a fire and it does not go out, get out of the home and call the fire department.

5. Keep things that can burn away from the stove.

6. Keep kids at least three feet from the stove.

CREDIT: Illustrations by L.S. Pierce © 2009

--- Military Treatment Facilities open during AFMC Family Days
Great news! The 412th Medical Group will be open on AFMC Family Days from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m., starting Friday, Aug. 30. All services will be available. We are looking forward to seeing you. 
--- Pharmacy Script Center at Plant 42
The 412th Medical Group Pharmacy Script Center located at Plant 42 is now open. You will be able to pickup your prescriptions at an alternate location. For more information please call the Pharmacy at 661-277-2052.  
 

WHAT: The DAT will assess programs, practices, procedures and data for barriers to employment, advancement, and retention of employees, applicants and military members with disabilities. It will also serve as a Member and Employee Resources Group (MERG) for civilians and military with disabilities.
WHY: A MERG is a voluntary, employee-led group that fosters an inclusive workplace aligned with organizational mission, that also seeks to support individuals as they navigate their career.
WHO: Any DAF employee or member regardless of grade/rank, location, disability status, or race/ethnicity/sex.
CONTACT: Edwards AFB Disability Program Manager (DPM), Ms. Isabella Morales, isabella.morales@us.af.mil

DAYS: Monday-Friday
TIMES: Departs from the East side of Lancaster at 6:10 a.m. to reach our destination on base by 6:55 a.m. Returns from the base at 4:30 p.m. to arrive back at the East side of Lancaster around 5:15 p.m. 
CONTACT: Kendall King at kendall.king@us.af.mil or 661-275-6057

Unlock a world of benefits with vanpooling! Imagine having extra cash in your pocket each month, enjoying peaceful relaxation or sleep on your daily commute, reducing your car insurance expenses, and sparing your vehicle from wear and tear. It's all possible with our incredibly comfortable 8-seat vanpool, and we're actively seeking riders like you!

Here's what you can expect: Our van departs from Lancaster Sgt Steve Owen Park and Ride (next to YMCA) at 6:05 a.m., ensuring you reach your destination on base by 6:45 a.m. You'll return from the base at 4 p.m., arriving back at Lancaster City Park and Ride around 4:45 p.m. The van leaves base at 3 p.m. every Friday. This convenient service operates from Monday to Friday.

And here's the best part for DoD employees - it's practically FREE! All you need to do is apply for a voucher through the Transit Benefits System, and you're good to go.

Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to enhance your daily commute, save money, and make life easier. For more information or to get started, feel free to contact Vinh Pham via call or text at 661-802-2627 or via email at vinh.pham.2@us.af.mil Make the smart choice today! Thank you.

DAYS: Monday - Friday
TIMES: Departs from the City of Lancaster Park and Ride at 6:05 a.m. to reach our destination on base by 6:45 a.m. Returns from the base at 4 p.m. to arrive back at the City of Lancaster Park and Ride around 4:45 p.m. 
CONTACT: Vinh.Pham@us.af.mil or 661-802-2627

CONTACT: Nicholas.Kuttor@us.af.mil or 661-275-3545

CONTACT: Steve Hansen at steven.hansen.9@us.af.mil or 661-275-0839

CONTACT: Hector at 661-810-3868

Vanpool riders wanted! This West Lancaster/Palmdale Vanpool to/from main base is starting soon.
TIMES: Departs from Park and Ride (Ave K-8/10th St West) at 6 a.m. Departs Edwards AFB at 4:30 p.m. 
FEE: $220/month BUT Military/Gov’t employees may qualify for the Transportation Incentive Program (TIP) subsidy and can ride for FREE!!!!
CONTACT: Julio Barrios at 661-903-0915 (call/text) or julio.barrios.1@us.af.mil

DATES/TIMES: Meets at the mall, Monday - Friday, around 6 a.m. to arrive on base around 7 a.m. Departs base at 4 p.m. 
CONTACT: 661-275-7731