911 Airlift Wing Services makes commnicating with deployed servicemembers easier

  • Published
  • By Staff Sgt. Marc C. Nickens
  • 911 AW/PA
PITTSBURGH IAP ARS --  The internet has made it possible for people thousands of miles apart to communicate in real time without having to rely on making long distance phone calls.

E-mailing and instant messaging are fantastic tools, but with broadband internet access it's now possible to see one another too. If you have a webcam, you're ready to use video conferencing as a means to communicate with friends and family members around the globe.

Webcam is the short term for web camera. It is a device that has the ability to capture images, both still and moving, and save it on your computer. Most laptops have built-in webcams while desktops require an external model that hooks up into the Universal Serial Bus port.

On December 14, the 911th Airlift Wing introduced the Wing's first desktop with an installed webcam dedicated for use by the families of deployed service members. The project was the idea of members of the Pittsburgh Military Family Support Group, who took the lead in securing the camera, and coordinating for the ideal location for installation.

"I'm really happy that this project is finally up and running" said Jane Elwell, the group's advisor. "So many of our volunteer spouses and family members worked to make sure this idea became a reality. They know first-hand the benefits this system will bring to the families since their own spouses and family members have deployed in the past."

The webcam is easy to use and family members can come in to use it with their military identification during normal duty hours, at the billeting office in the second floor conference room.

"Services is providing a room at lodging so families can come in and take advantage of the webcam and have computer access helping them communicate with deployed service members," said Col. Gordon H. Elwell, Jr., 911th Airlift Wing commander. "The camera was donated through the efforts of Terry Stuart at Airman and Family Readiness. Aaron Spangler and Less Vish provided some hardware and technical support in getting the system working".

The webcam has its own built-in software to simplify its use. Double-click the icon that was created when the webcam software was installed and the camera will work the moment you launch the software. Those who wish to use the webcam with an online messaging service will have to sign in with their username and password, then look for the option to activate and share the webcam.

"The Pittsburgh Military Family Support Group is very proud of the opening of this new webcam center," said Col. Elwell. "They have taken the lead in working with Airman and Family Readiness and so many of the other organizations within the 911th Airlift Wing."