Sound of Freedom - November/December - 2021 by Times Media Group

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Remember Their Names Buckeye Fallen Six honored with tourney

Teeing Up Patriot All-America tournament now to include women

Veterans Day deals Sound of Freedom is published bimonthly by Times Media Group, a private publishing company. Times Media Group is in no way affiliated with Luke Air Force Base or the United States Air Force.

F I G H T E R C O U N T R Y PA R T N E R S H I P

From Grain to Glass Saddle Mountain hosts Luke AFB members BY BROOKE CHRISTIANSON Sound of Freedom Contributing Writer

addle Mountain Brewing Company takes it from grain to glass with the help of local veterans. Owners Jacob and Laura Hansen opened their brewery in 2014 in Goodyear. Strong supporters of the military community, they wanted to give back in a fun and educational manner with the malt liquor Veterans Brew, which is slated for release on November 11. The Hansens partnered with Luke Air Force Base members to share brewing techniques. The participants also put in hard labor but, in the end, sampled beer. This is the brew’s second year, and it benefits Fighter Country Foundation, a nonprofit that supports the men, women, families and mission of Luke Air Force Base. This year they also partnered with Wings of Flight Foundation from Falcon Field in honor of the Mesa airport’s 80th anniversary. Each year, the celebration features Members of that celebration a different brew. (Photos courtesy of also participated in the brewSaddle Mountain Brewing Company) ing day. Each year featured a different brew, ranging from Belgium blonde to a toasted pecan doppelbock and last year’s American Saddle Mountain lager. Brewing Company Keeping with military tradition, opened in 2014 in they added a naming ceremony to Goodyear. the process, which never disappoints. Head out to Saddle Mountain Brewing Company and enjoy delicious beer while supporting the troops.

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Saddle Mountain owners the Hansens partnered with Luke AFB members to share brewing techniques.

Contents

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 Publisher Steve T. Strickbine Vice President Michael Hiatt Associate Group Publisher Laura Meehan, 623-777-1042 lmeehan@star-times.com NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Remember Their Names Buckeye Fallen Six honored with tourney

Teeing Up Patriot All-America tournament now to include women

The Patriot All-America starts December 28 at the Wigwam Golf Club.

(Photo by Michael Jordan)

Executive Editor Christina Fuoco-Karasinski 480-898-5631 christina@star-times.com Staff Photographer Dave Minton Contributors Allison Brown, Brooke Christianson, Senior Airman Caitlin Diaz-Gorsi, Staff Sgt. Kelly Greenwell, John Heckenlaible, Senior Airman Leala Marquez, Joe McHugh, Bill Quehrn Graphic Design Veronica Thurman vthurman@timespublications.com Production Manager Courtney Oldham production@timespublications.com

From Grain to Glass Saddle Mountain hosts Luke AFB members

26 Remember Their Names Buckeye Fallen Six honored with tourney

‘The Whoa Effect’ Elizabeth Ramirez Torres becomes an air man during the pandemic

30 Healing by Helping Others Gala to raise money for veterans and first responders

12 Patrons Dine, Angry Crab Shack Donates The restaurant gives $50K to Arizona Housing Coalition 16 Hike to Honor Veterans Skyline Regional Park hosts ceremonial trek 18 Teeing Up Patriot All-America tournament now to include women 24 Combat Readiness 61st AMU uses live GBUs for realistic experiences 25 Enhancing Communication Luke airmen develop tester box

32 Veterans Day Deals Restaurants honor service members with discounts 36 ‘Safety Dude’ Bernard Bruce retires after 50 years of service 41 The British Are Coming In 1941, Falcon Field welcomed the Royal Air Force 43 Celebrating Veterans Daisy Mountain parade honors service 44 Transition to Civilian Life Community colleges help military personnel with education

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

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NEWS

‘The Whoa Effect’

Elizabeth Ramirez Torres becomes an airman during the pandemic BY STAFF SGT. KELLY GREENWELL 161st Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs

magine wanting something your entire life, only to attain it as the world spins into chaos. This was the case for Airman 1st Class Elizabeth Ramirez Torres of the 161st Force Support Squadron, who graduated Air Force Basic Military Training on

U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Elizabeth Ramirez Torres poses in front of the Prime RIBS seal June 6 at Goldwater Air National Guard Base. Ramirez Torres graduated Air Force basic training March 13, 2020, at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic and became a naturalized citizen on March 12. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Kelly Greenwell)

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NEWS CITIZEN FROM PAGE 8 basic training was about more than becoming an airman. It was in an important step toward accomplishing her dream of becoming a U.S. citizen. As a child, she moved to Arizona from Mexico with her family, and after many years of determination, her chance to make her dream a reality had finally arrived. “You work so hard to get somewhere, and then when you finally get there, the turnout is absolutely not how you were expecting it and the world is upside down. It was a serious ‘whoa’ moment,” Ramirez Torres says. While there was some mention of the novel coronavirus during training, the recruits were largely cut off from the outside world. With the designation of a pandemic and the concern for everyone’s health and safety, the graduation was closed to the public. It was a bittersweet moment for Ramirez Torres, as her family could U.S. Air Force Airman 1st Class Elizabeth Ramirez Torres stocks the beverage refrigerator June 6 at Goldwater Air National Guard Base. (U.S. Air National Guard photo by Staff Sgt. Kelly Greenwell) not witness the day she worked so hard to reach. briefed us about what to expect,” Ramirez Torres says. “I had “We went into the auditorium in our blues, and the general wanted to do this my whole life, and I felt so accomplished. It’s a

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big thing, and suddenly all you have are the people you’ve been with during training and that becomes your family. For me that was a reality check — this is the real thing, like this is what I signed up for.” The day after graduation, A1C Ramirez Torres and her fellow graduates left for their respective technical training, where they immediately recognized how different the world had become. “We got to the airport and there was hardly anyone there. On the flight, it was maybe four or five civilians and the rest of us were military.” Upon arriving to her technical training school at Fort Lee, Virginia, supplies were difficult to come by and Ramirez Torres remembers ordering masks that would never arrive. The supply shortages happened so quickly that students had to make do with what they had, making masks out of spare uniform fabrics and paperclips. “At one point I was just talking to someone and he expressed how tired he was and we shared how crazy the times were,” Ramirez Torres says. “I really felt for him, so I gave him coffee and in return he gave me a mask.” Since completing technical training in April 2020 and returning home to Arizona, Ramirez Torres has been on full-time active-duty orders with the state’s COVID-19 response mission, serving the community that made it possible for her to be where she is today. “I call it the ‘whoa effect.’ There have been so many moments since joining where I just can’t believe everything we’ve gone through,” the biggest of which took place when Ramirez Torres officially became a U.S. citizen on March 12, she says.

NEWS

Patrons Dine, Angry Crab Shack Donates The restaurant gives $50K to Arizona Housing Coalition BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Sound of Freedom Executive Editor

ocally owned and operated Angry Crab Shack, which specializes in seafood boils with Asian-Cajun flavors and signature sauces, recently raised $50,125 for its You Dine, We Donate monthlong promotion benefiting the Arizona Housing Coalition. The local nonprofit aids and provides resources to homeless veterans and their families. The resources include clothing, hot meals,

Angry Crab Shack recently raised $50,125 for its You Dine, We Donate monthlong promotion benefiting the Arizona Housing Coalition. (Photo courtesy of Angry Crab Shack)

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haircuts and hygiene items. “In our organization, one of the main priorities is giving back to the community that has been very supportive of us over the years and throughout our growth,” says Andy Diamond, Angry Crab Shack chief financial official. “We are thankful to our guests for supporting our mission and aiding our communities. Knowing that Angry Crab Shack can make a small impact means the world to us.” Angry Crab Shack has been partners with the Arizona Housing Coalition for five years and has raised more than $140,664 to date with the You Dine, We Donate program. For a month, diners who entered one of the 12 locations statewide helped raise money for the organization. All the proceeds from the sale of Angry Crab Shack merchandise were also donated. “We couldn’t provide the work that we do without the generous donations from Angry Crab Shack,” says Joan Serviss, executive director at Arizona Housing Coalition. “The donations go toward clothing, food, hygiene products and more. Some of the services it benefits include legal, housing, Motor Vehicle Department and the Department of Economic Security.” Angry Crab Shack sources lobster from the East Coast, Dungeness crab from the Pacific Northwest, king and snow crab from Alaska, and crawfish from the Gulf of Mexico.

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NEWS

Hike to Honor Veterans Skyline Regional Park hosts ceremonial trek

Hikers can thank veterans while enjoying the great outdoors on a 4-mile roundtrip hike to the highest point in Skyline Regional Park. (Photo courtesy of Skyline Regional Park)

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Sound of Freedom Executive Editor

elp hoist the American Flag high atop Skyline Regional Park as hikers honor the brave men and women who have served at 9 a.m. Thursday, November 11. Hikers can thank veterans while enjoying the great outdoors on a 4-mile roundtrip hike to the highest point in Skyline Regional Park, the Valley Vista Summit. All U.S. military veterans are welcome to help carry the flag during the ceremonial trek. Veterans interested in sharing the experience of carrying the flag should contact Buckeye’s Community Services at 623-349-6330 or via email at amelle@buckeyeaz.gov. The Mountain Wash Trail to Valley Vista Summit is rated as a difficult trail because of the significant increase in elevation. Participants are encouraged to wear good hiking shoes and bring plenty of wa-

All U.S. military veterans are welcome to help carry the flag during the ceremonial trek. (Photos courtesy of Skyline Regional Park)

ter and sun protection. The hike is free and open to anyone who would like to participate. Pre-registration is encouraged but not required at https://

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

bit.ly/33SXpjX. Skyline Regional Park is located at 2600 N. Watson Road, Buckeye. For more information, call 623-349-6350.

17TH ANNUAL PARADE NOVEMBER 6, 2021 • 10:00AM

• 9:00 am parachute jump by the Frog X Parachute team on the Anthem Soccer Fields

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(We recommend parents and children to gather starting at 8:45 am on the west edge of the Anthem Soccer Field on Gavilan Peak Parkway)

Parade route will be in Anthem beginning at Gavilan Peak Pkwy & Memorial drive and ends at the Anthem Community Center.

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• 9:05 am Parachute Team lands on the ﬁeld

• 9:10 am Parachute Team folds the American Flag & talks with children

• 9:15 am the Parachute Team, the children, and parents walk the ﬂag to the start of the parade

• 9:30 am the Parachute Team presents the American Flag to the Sandra Day O’Connor Color Guard

• 10:00 am Flyover by Warbird Squadron 20 and Parade Kickoff

The 17th Annual Veterans Parade would not be possible without the support of so many volunteers, business vendors, and our generous sponsors! GENERAL SPONSOR: LIEUTENANT COLONEL SPONSORS:

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For more information, to participate, or to become a Grand Marshal, visit daisymtnvets.org/about-the-parade/ Share photo on social media using #daisymtnvets, tag @daisymtnvets on IG and @daisymountainveterans on FB

NEWS

Teeing Up

Patriot All-America tournament now to include women BY JOE MCHUGH Sound of Freedom Contributing Writer

he Patriot All-America golf tournament has opened its field to women for the first time in its 11 years. Held at the Wigwam Golf Club starting December 28, this year’s iteration will show top men’s and women’s amateur golfers from around the nation. “We’re excited about that start from the women,” says Dustin Roberts, a representative for the Golf Coaches Association of America. “If you’re someone who loves golf, it’s a great chance to go out and see them. Folks are going to be watching them on the weekends on the PGA Tour and the LPGA.” The tournament has produced many PGA tour winners over its 11 years, including Brooks Koepka, Collin Morikawa and Justin Thomas when the field was limited to just men. This year, fans may see the next Lexi Thompson or Lydia Ko. “We are really fortunate to have some really, really good ladies players in the bill this year,” Robert says.

For the first time in its 11 years, the Patriot All-America will allow women competitors. The tourney will be held at the Wigwam Golf Club starting December 28. (Photos by Michael Jordan)

“A couple of the highlights are Julia Johnson, who plays at Ole Miss, who is the defending national champion on the women’s side. You have Louise Duncan, who actually goes to Stirling University in Scotland.” Aside from Duncan and Johnson, the women’s field is set to include multiple players inside the top 100 in the World Amateur Golf Rankings, as well as many collegiate All-Americans.

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Players include University of Oregon’s Cynthia Lu and Michigan State University’s Valery Plata. The Patriot All-America tournament is a golf tournament, turned public event, mimicking the Waste Management Phoenix Open, “Greatest Show on Grass.” The tournament was the idea of the AriSEE PATRIOT PAGE 20

NEWS PATRIOT FROM PAGE 18 zona Golf Association and the Golf Coaches of America, in conjunction with The Wigwam and the Biltmore golf courses, and has flourished. “There were conversations about a ‘bowllike’ event for college golf,” says Sean Scibienski, a representative for the West Valley Mavericks, which sponsors the event. “The original concept was, ‘How do we get the top amateur golfers in the world to come to an event and really have the atmosphere that they would, if they were a football program playing in a bowl game?’” The “bowl game” experience has grown. Starting as a 10-by-10-foot tent at a golf course bringing in about 50 people, the tourney attracts more than 1,000 fans to experience golf, food, beverage, live music and fundraising during the week. “It’s great, great golf, an incredibly party, all for a great cause of supporting the military,” Scibienski says. The tournament is more than a golfing event or a public spectacle. The Patriot All-America honors those who have served

or died for the U.S. military and armed forces. They work with the Folds of Honor, founded by Lt. Col. Dan Rooney. The organization provides scholarships to families of fallen and disabled service members. The Patriot All-America brings former soldiers to the greens The Patriot All-America is more than a golf tournament. It honors as well, as the those who have served or died for the U.S. military and armed forces. (Photo by Michael Jordan) tournament selects of the open event, which is the more complayers from the Veterans Golf Association to play alongside petitive version, get an exemption into our field.” the amateurs. It goes a step further than that. Golfers “We offer an exemption into the field for their national champion,” Scibienski carry a custom-made golf bag with severely says. “They have a series of tournaments to injured or fallen soldiers’ names and bios qualify for a national championship tour- on them. nament. And the winner of that event, the SEE PATRIOT PAGE 22 winners on the men and the women’s field

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

The City of Peoria is a champion of Luke Air Force Base and works hard to protect the Base to ensure their mission’s viability for years to come.

NEWS The Patriot AllAmerica will be featured on ESPN, the Golf Channel and Golfweek, among others. (Photo by Michael Jordan)

U.S. AIR FORCE PHOTO

On behalf of the Mayor and Council, City management and staff, we want to say “THANK YOU” for your service and dedication to our country.

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Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

PATRIOT FROM PAGE 20 After golfers finish their rounds, the bags are autographed by amateur golfers and auctioned. The profits go to Folds of Honor. “What we like to say is, ‘That golfer is taking that soldier on his final tour of duty,’” Scibienski says. Last year, the festivities were halted due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The event was successfully livestreamed, and that will continue this year. The Patriot All-America will be featured on ESPN, the Golf Channel and Golfweek, among others. “We are going to continue the livestream because there is a lot of parents and fans that can’t travel to Arizona at that time of year, no matter how much they’d like to,” Scibienski says. “We’d like to give them an opportunity to see their kids and see the events.” The 2021 tournament starts with the Am-Am Tournament, which features hobbyists playing with the nation’s top young golfers. They then are offered dinner and present awards. Afterward, the opening ceremony features keynote speakers, a military flyover and a parachute team drop-in. After the first round, the golfers tour Luke Air Force Base, where they are given VIP access and they witness the retiring of the American flag that flew over Luke Air Force Base for the past year. The tournament winner receives the retired flag, special jacket and trophy. “Every player I have talked to that have played in this event just raved about it,” Scibienski says. “They have tried to come back, and it is just a once-in-a-lifetime experience.”

The Patriot All-America WHEN: Various times Tuesday, December 28, to Friday, December 31 WHERE: Wigwam Golf Club, 451 N. Old Litchfield Road, Litchfield Park COST: Free admission; $100 VIP daily; $250 VIP for three days. VIP includes food and beverage and access to the VIP tents INFO: patriotallamerica.com

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NEWS

Combat Readiness 61st AMU uses live GBUs for realistic experiences U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. Nikolas Ramirez, 61st Aircraft Maintenance Unit maintainer, secures a GBU-31 joint direct attack munition onto a munition jammer August 9, 2021, at Luke Air Force Base. Two F-35s from the 61st Fighter Squadron completed missions with live GBU-31s, a 2,000-pound class munition that uses a GPS-guided tail kit to provide pilots with combat training experience. Through realistic training experiences, the 61st AMU and 61st FS develop combat-ready pilots and mission enhancing lethality and readiness within the Air Force (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Leala Marquez)

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Enhancing Communication Luke airmen develop tester box BY SENIOR AIRMAN CAITLIN DIAZ-GORSI 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs

he 56th Maintenance Group Continuous Improvement and Innovation office developed the F-35A Lightning II communication cable rebuild and class tester box, allowing airmen to rebuild F-35 communication cables at the unit level. Communication cables are used daily to enable pilots and maintainers to communicate during aircraft launch and recovery. Previously, communication cables were sent to the Air Force Repair Enhancement Program to be fixed, which created repair time delays. If the cables were faulty, pilots and maintainers would have to communicate through hand U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Jonathan Gonzalez, left, and Staff Sgt. Gary Peteritis, signals. center, both 56th Maintenance Group Air Force Repair and Enhancement Pro“We were getting 40 to 50 cables a month that needed gram technicians, stand with Tech. Sgt. Brady Flynn, right, 56th MXG Continurepairs, and each cable takes around two hours to repair,” ous Improvement and Innovation manager, to showcase the first prototype of says U.S. Air Force Tech. Sgt. Brady Flynn, 56th MXG CII the F-35A Lightning II communication cable rebuild and class tester box at Luke manager. “In 2019, there was a backlog of over 135 commu- Air Force Base. (U.S. Air Force photo by Tech. Sgt. Amber Carter) nication cables that needed to be restored and put back into operation.” With this tester box, the CII office and aircraft maintenance units can not only test if the communication cable is faulty but also indicate which part of the cable needs to be repaired before it is taken out to Government the flight line. After brainstorming various ideas, the team was able to Rates reach their goal of creating a prototype that tests broken cables. Available “We developed a tester where you can plug the cable into both sides of the box and test the circuits to indicate which have failed,” Flynn says. “It’s an easy way to troubleshoot and isolate a failure when a communication cable comes in that may not be operable.” To implement this tester box, the CII office collaborated with the National Security Innovation Network, a Department of Defense program called Project X that partners college interns with military installations to help further innovative projects. Through the collaboration with the 56th MXG’s CII office and NSIN, Corey Stoner, Stevens Institute of Technology intern, helped enhance the tester box by adding a sound device and alarm to mimic pilots and maintainers communicating on the flight line. The tester box acts as a simulated pilot sounding an alarm, “which • HDTVs, Refrigerator, Microwave, • Over 4,000 Square Feet of Meeting/Banquet Space Coffee Maker, Hair Dryer, Iron/ would allow for any communication issues to be readily apparent and • Less than 2 miles from Westgate City Board & Sofa Sleeper in ALL rooms rely less on vocal and signal cues,” Stoner says. “For maintainers, the Center, State Farm Stadium,Tanger • 24 Hour Business Center, Fitness changes should be apparent in the new design (of the tester box) to Outlet Mall Center and Marketplace • Just 7 Miles from Luke AFB reduce the points of failure, leading to less downtime.” • Heated Outdoor Pool and SPA • 1/2 Mile from Top Golf Facility The development of the tester box has improved communication • Laundry facility • Pet Friendly (w/fee) between pilots and maintainers on the flight line. This is one of many initiatives that advances the 56th MXG CII office’s mission to find errors, fix problems and empower the future of the 56th 9824 W. Camelback Rd. Glendale, AZ 85305 • www.comfortsuites.com/hotel/az296 Fighter Wing.

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Remember Their Names Buckeye Fallen Six honored with tourney BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Sound of Freedom Executive Editor

ix men who were killed in Vietnam in the 1960s will once again be honored during a November golf tournament. The fifth annual Remember the Buckeye Fallen Six golf tournament is Saturday, Nov. 13, with a 7:30 a.m. shotgun start, at Sundance Golf Course, 900 S. Sundance Parkway, Buckeye. The four-person scramble is $80 per person and includes golf, a cart, raffle tickets, continental breakfast and lunch. Registration and breakfast — provided by the American Legion Auxiliary, donations accepted — begin at 6:30 a.m. on the patio next to the pro shop. To purchase tickets, call Steve Quinton at 480-370-6057 or email stevequint15@gmail.com. The event benefits VFW Post 12098 and American Legion Post 53. “All the money goes to the veterans,” says Quinton, who is the VFW Post 12098 commander. The Buckeye Fallen Six were men, all from Buckeye, who were killed in Vietnam. “I was a Vietnam vet,” Quinton says. “We remember the Buckeye Fallen Six. At the time, there couldn’t have been a lot of people in this town to lose six boys.” Marine Pfc. Donald Robert Elmore, born March 1, 1948, was killed in action Aug. 1, 1967, in South Vietnam, Quang Nam province. He was awarded the Purple Heart. He was a rifleman attached to the 1st Marine Division, 1st Battalion, 1st Marines, D Company. Geronimo Lerma served in the Army until he was killed in action July 6, 1968, in South Vietnam, Kontum province. The specialist four, who specialized in light weapons infantry, was born Sept. 30, 1947. Lerma was attached to the 4th Infantry Division, 3rd Battalion, 8th Infantry, C Company. He, too, was awarded a Purple Heart. Born Aug. 16, 1951, Army Specialist Four Darrel Monroe Pickett was killed in action Sept. 9, 1970, in South Vietnam Quang Ngai province. The ammunition storage specialist was assigned to Americal Division, 14th Aviation Battalion, 176th Assault Helicopter Company, and was awarded a Purple Heart. Navy Petty Officer 2nd Class James Dale Laser, born Jan. 5, 1947, was killed in action on Jan. 17, 1969, in South Vietnam, Quang Tri province. Awarded the Purple Heart, Laser was assigned to USNAVFORV, NAVSUPACT Danang, Public Works. A helicopter repairman and specialist five, Herman Serna was killed

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Allen Theodore Makin II Darrel Monroe Pickett

Donald Robert Elmore

(Photos courtesy virtualwall.org)

Geronimo Lerma

Herman Serna

James Dale Laser

as a crew member in a helicopter crash on May 14, 1970, in Cambodia. Awarded a Purple Heart, he was declared dead while missing. His birthday was Nov. 9, 1950. He was assigned to the 1st Aviation Brigade, 269th Aviation Battalion, 12th Aviation Group, 116th Aviation Company. Allan Theodore Makin II was born Oct. 11, 1956, and died of multiple fragmentation wounds on the ground in South Vietnam, Long An province, on March 15, 1967, as a specialist four. He was awarded the Purple Heart. He was assigned to the 9th Infantry Division, 3rd Battalion, 39th Infantry, A Company. He was a field artillery target acquisition specialist. “One of the boys’ families played in the tournament last year; they were in their 80s,” Quinton said. “That’s all who’s left.” Aside from the golf tournament, the post is hosting a brunch from 8 to 11 a.m. Saturday, Oct. 9, at its facility, 402 E. Narramore Avenue, Buckeye. The breakfast is $5 for adults, and they choose three items from the menu. Meanwhile, kids’ breakfasts are $3, and they choose two items. “It’s a good price, and you get a lot of food,” he said.

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“But we are looking at ways to reduce the time it takes to do the returns and we are researching the possibility of being open on Saturdays.” However, he stressed these plans are preliminary and dependent on whether AARP Foundation ofﬁcials allow the program. Training volunteers could also present a problem due to space. Last year training was conducted at one of the Recreation Centers of Sun City facilities. “Plus at this point I don’t have any idea how many of the volunteers will return if we do have a program,” Mr. Graff said. When the Tax-Aire program returns, whether it be in 2021 or the next year, res-

Other services

Sun City CAN’s other services remain available, including the water rebate for condo owners and help with electricity bills for low-income residents. Mr. Duncan said ofﬁcials are in the process of applying for grant funds from Arizona Public Service Co. for the electricity program. Southwest Gas, which does not have a grant application process, donated $1,000, double the company’s normal amount, for the Crisis Assistance program. Funds from that program are used for the water rebate, electricity, gas, taxi ticket and “Paint the Town,” a new program just added. “It is nice being an inde-

plus another letter campaign fundraiser will be conducted soon, he added. “I anticipate us breaking even or maybe even being a little in the black a little bit,” he said. CAN ofﬁcials also hope to increase their exposure to the community, providing more opportunity for residents to understand what the On select in-stock sets of 4 Nitto Crosstek 2, Cooper Evolution Tour an organization offers. required on all four tires. Up to 10% shop fee based on non-discounted r See store for pricing. Eligibility may vary. Not valid with other offers. At p Ms. Rode told the board during its Sept. 8 meeting that Radiant Church, 10701 W. Boswell Blvd., new to Sun City, ofﬁcials are trying WEdistriINVITE YOU TO CONSIDER EL MIRAGE to start a weekly food bution, socializationJUST and ed2 MILES FROM LUKE AFB! ucation event in which other service organizations can Community Parks featuring Splash Plaza, Gateway & Gentry participate. Community Garden, playing fields and skate park “We are looking into being Award-winning Dysart Unified Schools

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Healing by

Helping Others

Gala to raise money for veterans and first responders BY ALLISON BROWN Sound of Freedom Staff Writer

tep away from the traditional red, white and blue barbecue this Veterans Day with the Wings for Warriors’ fifth annual gala at the Madison Center for the Arts with proceeds donated to the or-

ganization. The Ahwatukee-based Wings for Warriors foundation is a nationally recognized nonprofit organization in support of veterans, first responders and their families. It regularly selects different organizations to support, but this year’s gala will raise funds to support faith-based trauma counseling, equine therapy, Gold Star family retreats, hyperbaric oxygen treatment for PTS and TBI, and camaraderie and healing adventures. The gala will have a dessert and cocktail reception, live entertainment and auctions. “It’s very classy, very formal. It’s black tie optional, although we do encourage people to wear black ties and the women to wear cocktail attire,” says Anthony Ameen, founder of Wings for Warriors. “There’s going to be some very distinguished guests, anything from high-polished officers down to the enlisted people currently serving in uniform, people that have retired and everyone in between.” Funds will be collected through ticket sales and various auction items. Ameen says

Anthony Ameen, the founder of Wings for Warriors, shakes hands at the gala with a WWII veteran who was also a hospital corpsman. (Photo courtesy of Anthony Ameen)

they will have everything from homemade gift baskets to Costa Rica timeshares. He added that the gala is the organization’s biggest fundraiser of the year. He is expecting a minimum of 150 people in attendance but hoping for around 300, as the organization needs financial support. Ameen says they are not limited by space, so the more attendees and the more sponsors the better.

Anthony Ameen has been awarded the Purple Heart, Navy Marine Corps Achievement Medal with Combat Valor Distinction, and two Veteran of the Year Awards, and he has been inducted to the Arizona Veterans Hall of Fame Society. (Photo courtesy of Anthony Ameen)

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

“We’re trying to raise as much as possible because we weren’t able to have this event last year because of COVID. We took a $150,000 hit due to live, in-person fundraising events that were canceled,” Ameen says. “So, we’re trying to raise as much as humanly possible for this event. I will say, in 2019, in less than three hours we raised $65,000 at the event. If we can raise a minimum of that, it would be amazing. Anything more than that would be a dream come true.” Ameen says a crowd favorite for several years has been the speed painting done by Randall Hedden, a Vietnam combat veteran. Hedden does a piece, anywhere from 4 feet by 4 feet to 6.5 feet by 6.5 feet, in 8 to 10 minutes on a spinning canvas and choreographs his painting to music he mixes himself. At this year’s gala, he will be doing three paintings that will all be auctioned, allowing for three attendees to take home a completely original piece that they saw painted live. A large portion of the sale goes to Wings for Warriors, and Ameen says Hedden’s paintings are a huge chunk of the profits they make. Hedden says while he does much more work than speed painting, it’s a fun and engaging way to make a positive impact. “I’ve been in this business for almost 15 years, and it’s not always about yourself,” Hedden says. “It’s about people. And if we can’t help people, then what are we here for? It’s not all about taking care of yourself and your own business. Naturally, you have to do that or you can’t help people, but then

F E AT U R E you’re actually able to turn around and take your talents and use them for charity events or to help people be aware of certain things.” With the same spirit of helping others, the keynote speaker will be Mesa resident Dr. Vernet A. Joseph, a 22-year Army veteran, best-selling author, entrepreneur, professor, pastor and one of the world’s leading productivity coaches. He received a national statesman degree, was appointed a World Civility Ambassador in 2018 and has spoken in more than 50 countries in the last decade. Live music will be provided by Michael Land, a singer and songwriter from Fountain Hills. Land connected with Wings for Warriors after meeting Ameen at church. “I’m honored to be a part of this event, and I’ll be bringing a couple musicians with me to provide some great music. I’m excited for it,” Land says. “My dad is a Vietnam veteran. What he experienced at 18 years old changed his life forever. I’m incredibly grateful for the sacrifice he and so many others have made for our freedom.” The celebration doubles as a 10th anniversary for Wings for Warriors, which Ameen founded in 2011. He served as a Hospital Corpsman in the Navy from 2002 to 2010 and was deployed with the Second Battalion Seventh Marines as its medic in 2008. In July 2008, while running across the battlefield to give aid to a wounded Marine, he stepped on a bomb. It was during his recovery that he had the inspiration and personal cause to start an organization to help veterans and their families. “We lost 21 men,” Ameen says. “When I came home, I had another whole battle ahead of me. I like to refer to it as the battle of recovery. I had to recover from PTSD, I had 34 surgeries, my left leg was amputated below the knee, and I was denied my benefits.” “I wanted to start an organization to help other people, other wounded warriors, other military families to secure their health care, financial legal benefits, and also a travel assistance program to fly military families to visit their healing heroes while they’re going through recovery.” In 2020, the organization shifted its focus to also include first responders and their families in its scope. Ameen says it helps by “finding, funding and fueling” organizations that offer services or programs to veterans and first responders. Every two years, it chooses four new organizations to support and has touched more than 5,000 veterans, military families and caregivers. “I think a form of healing for my personal PTSD was helping other people, and by doing so, it helped heal me from some of the combat experience that I and others from the unit experienced,” Ameen says. “I feel like God has a purpose for all of us, and I feel like I’m supposed to help people,” Ameen says about his mission with Wings for Warriors. Those unable to attend the gala can donate online year-round. Visit wingsforwarriors.org/donate.

OUR MISSION Support the men, ION OUR MISS women, families, and e men, pport thAFB. SuLuke mission of milies, and

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Wings for Warriors Fifth Annual Gala WHEN: 7 to 10 p.m. Thursday, November 11 WHERE: The Madison Center for the Arts, 5601 N. 16th Street, Phoenix COST: Tickets start at $85 INFO: wingsforwarriors.org/annual-gala

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y a D s n a Veter

Deals

Restaurants honor service members with discounts

BY CHRISTINA FUOCO-KARASINSKI Sound of Freedom Executive Editor

estaurants from around the Valley are doing their best to remember veterans with deals on November 11. Military and veteran IDs are necessary for many of these discounts. Visit the restaurants’ websites for information on all Valley locations. Chompie’s Multiple Valley locations chompies.com All day, active, retired and former military service personnel can receive 20% of their entrée for dine-in and takeout orders when they present valid U.S. military ID.

Cider Corps 31 S. Robson, Suite 103, Mesa cidercorpsaz.com Cider Corps, a veteran-owned and family-run craft cidery, has a year-round discount for service men and women. Active military and veterans get a 10% discount on all purchases made at the Mesa cidery. The Cider Corps taproom offers 12 to 15 rotating styles of cider by the glass, taster flights and cider Cider Corps slushies. The cidery

makes several styles specifically dedicated to veterans that are available in canned four packs. Current styles include Sangin sangria, Sailor cherry and Mango Foxtrot. Crumbl Cookies Multiple Valley locations crumblcookies.com Local Crumbl Cookies franEAT by Stacey Weber chises have a year-round discount for veterans of 10% off purchases. Warm milk chocEAT by Stacey Weber olate chip and chilled sugar cookies are al- 4740 E. Shea Boulevard, Suite 109, ways on the menu, along with more than Phoenix 120 specialty flavors that rotate weekly. New eatbystaceyweber.com flavors are introduced every Sunday for the EAT by Stacey Weber offers a year-round week ahead. discount for veterans that can be applied at checkout with the code “VETERAN15.” EAT serves ready-for-pickup and ready-toeat meals with organic, local ingredients. In addition, EAT offers catering and personal chef services.

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Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

Jocque Concepts Multiple Valley concepts The restaurant group Jocque Concepts will offer a discount of 25% off food purchases on Veterans Day at all its concepts in Old Town Scottsdale and Arcadia, including Diego Pops, Eat Up Drive In, The Hot Chick and The Montauk. Discount not valid on alcohol.

F E AT U R E show their military ID to receive 25% off all wine bottle purchases.

Koibito Poké Multiple Valley locations koibitopoke.com The fast-casual restaurant Koibito Poké is honoring veterans with $5 off in-store orders on Veterans Day at its locations in Scottsdale, Arcadia and Chandler. Koibito Poké offers classic poké bowl selections as well as chicken and veggie options.

Macayo’s Mexican Food Multiple Valley locations macayo.com Macayo’s Mexican Food locations around the Valley are offering their thanks to veterans, active and nonactive military personnel. Heroes are invited to enjoy a free entrée from any location’s special Veterans Day menu, including chicken poblano, Baja burro and Sonoran enchilada trio. Offer is for dine-in, takeout and Macayo delivery service when guests present their valid military ID. Guests can use promo code “VETERANS” to receive this discount for online orders.

LDV Winery SouthBridge 7134 E. Stetson Drive, Suite B110, Scottsdale ldvwinery.com LDV Winery appreciates veterans every day. However, on November 11, veterans and active-duty military personnel can

Mavrix 9139 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale mavrix.com Veterans and active military families can bowl for free at Mavrix’s signature bowling lanes, which will be lit like the American flag, on November 11. Must show military ID. Not valid with other offers. Shoe rental

Koibito Poké

Octane Raceway

not included. Max one hour of free signature lane bowling per group. Myke’s Pizza 31 S. Robson, Suite 103, Mesa mykespizza.com Top off Veterans Day at Myke’s Pizza, which offers a year-round 10% discount for active military and veterans. Known for its hand-crafted pies, Myke’s pizzas have gained a cult following for their spin on traditional styles, like salami (with spicy honey and Gouda) and pineapple (with pickled chilis and pork roll), as well as new creations, like the potato and bacon with garlic cream and rosemary.

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F E AT U R E Octane Raceway 9119 E. Talking Stick Way, Scottsdale octaneraceway.com At Octane Raceway, veterans, active military and their families can enjoy 50% off racing and Velocity VR sessions with military ID. Choose from high-speed go-kart fun or virtual reality sessions with games like Far Cry VR, Undead Arena, Sol Raiders and Outbreak: Origins. Original Breakfast House 13623 N. 32nd Street, Phoenix originalbreakfasthouse.com Original Breakfast House owner and veteran John Stidham will host his “biggest party of the year” on Veterans Day. This year, Stidham is also honoring nurses and all first responders during the event due to a recent personal experience. Any active-duty military personnel, veteran, nurse or first responder can receive a free meal all day on November 11. These guests can choose between a meal off the regular menu for dine-in service or a pancake breakfast of pancakes, eggs, bacon, ham, sausage and coffee in the outside entertainment area.

This year’s event includes a vintage car show on the grass and live music from Joshua Stone Band in the parking lot, as well as a patriot presentation by the Refuge Teen Center. In addition, proceeds will benefit Tunnel to Towers Tempe, a nonprofit organization founded in honor of firefighter Stephen Siller, who lost his life in the line of duty on September 11, 2001, as well as all first responders and Pita Jungle military heroes who have made the Pita Jungle ultimate sacrifice. Original Breakfast House will match all donations to this orga- Multiple Valley locations pitajungle.com nization up to $5,000. The local Mediterranean restaurant group will honor veterans and active military with a Pair Cupworks 25% discount on Veterans Day. Offer valid at 31 S. Robson, Suite 103, Mesa participating locations only. paircupworks.com At specialty coffee shop Pair Cupworks, veterans and active military can get 20% Streets of New York off any coffee or tea drink on November 11. Multiple Valley locations Located inside the Cider Corps taproom, streetsofnewyork.com Streets of New York Pizza will offer a 25% Pair is a go-to spot for morning caffeinated drinks. The shop serves espressos, lattes, discount for veterans, active military, police pour-overs and artisanal teas, as well as sea- and firefighters on Veterans Day. Offer valid at participating locations only. sonal coffee drinks.

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‘Safety Dude’ Bernard Bruce retires after 50 years of service

BY SENIOR AIRMAN LEALA MARQUEZ 56th Fighter Wing Public Affairs Life is like a box of chocolates. You never know what you’re gonna get,” says Bernard Bruce, retired 56th Fighter Wing Occupational Safety and Health manager. While quoting the famous “Forrest Gump” line, Bruce reflected on his more than 50 years of service to the Air Force and laughed at his original plans for his life’s trajectory. Bruce grew up in Wilmington, Delaware, in the 1950s and ’60s in a diverse city that had a small-town feel to it. Raised by his grandparents while his father was in the Air Force, he learned lessons each evening at the dinner table from the Bible, Boy Scouts handbook and Good Citizens guide. He attended school during the Cold War, and he remembers diving under desks for protection from the incredible power of an atomic bomb. As he approached adulthood, the Vietnam War began. Bruce says he recalled hearing Martin Luther King Jr. voice his opposition for the conflict in his 1967 speech “Beyond Vietnam.” Bruce said while MLK’s words impacted him, civil rights leader Malcom X’s vision resonated even more. Had it not been for the draft notice that arrived, Bruce presumed that he would have been a Black Panther. “They say the journey of a thousand steps begins with a single step,” Bruce says. “In my case it was four; the four steps off a bus that arrived at Lackland Air Force Base, (Texas). I stepped off that bus into a totally different world.” In June 1969, Bruce dove into an expedited basic military training as the Air Force accelerated people through training to sustain the war effort.

Bernard “Safety Dude” Bruce, U.S. Air Force retired 56th Fighter Wing Occupational Safety and Health manager, wears his “Safety Dude” hat at Luke Air Force Base. Bruce retired after a combined service of more than 50 years to the Air Force — 26 years of active duty and 24 years as a government service employee. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Leala Marquez)

“I picked pharmacy technician,” Bruce says. “If I ended up going to Vietnam, I’m going to be in a hospital with a big red cross and they’re not going to hurt me. “I get these orders on the 28th day (of BMT). I get really (mad), and I’m stomping around. Of course, that draws my (training instructor)’s attention, who immediately wanted to know what my problem was. I said, ‘Sir, these orders are wrong, I am supposed to be a pharmacist. They want me to be an air traffic controller.’” In a stern voice, Bruce’s TI told him to get behind the barracks. In 1969 an Air Force trainee

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

knew that meant “hands-on” training. “My TI was a pretty big man. He was a Black guy,” Bruce says. “Something really interesting happened: the expression on his face changed; it was like I was speaking to my uncle or maybe my dad. He said, ‘Most Blacks in the United States Air Force today work in supply, in the dining facility, as civil engineers. They do a lot of physical stuff. “‘They don’t get an opportunity to go into operations like this. This is a really good job. You’re very articulate. If you pull your head out of your butt, you would be a pretty good air-

F E AT U R E man. Now, stop whining, take these orders and get back in formation.’ And the TI face came back.” On that day, his course changed again. After BMT, Bruce went to Keesler AFB, Mississippi, to receive his ATC technical training. Bruce explains he joined a career field that, at the time, women were not allowed in, and he was the only Black ATC airman. After training, Bruce was assigned to Ellington AFB, Texas, where the NASA program was. About nine Bernard “Safety Dude” Bruce, U.S. Air months after Apollo 11, Force retired 56th Fighter Wing OccuBruce recalls that a major pational Safety and Health manager, is shown as a staff sergeant in 1973 at from public affairs entered Keesler Air Force Base, Mississippi. At the tower with Neil Armthe time of this photo, Bruce was an strong, the first man to air traffic controller instructor. walk on the moon. Arm(Photo courtesy of Bernard Bruce) strong introduced himself to each person in the tower and answered their questions. Finally, he approached young Airman Bruce. After brief introductions, Bruce asked Armstrong how much money he made on his historic space flight. “(Armstrong) said, ‘First of all, I didn’t make a lot of money.’ And I have no filter. I said, ‘You got a lot of money. You just don’t want to tell me how much money you made,’” Bruce says. “My supervisor steps in and he says, ‘Bruce, knock it off.’ At that moment the major said, ‘We got to go,’ and pulled Mr. Armstrong over to the door, he waved and went out.” Bruce says his supervisor was livid and counseled him. However, a couple days later, Armstrong returned to speak with Bruce. Bruce proceeded to unload apologies for his behavior, and after he was done, Armstrong spoke. “He said, ‘Actually, it was a good question,’ and hands me a piece of paper,” Bruce says. In his hands was a government travel voucher that laid out Armstrong’s entire trip and all the expenses covered. The voucher listed all the locations he traveled to: from his home to Cape Kennedy; Cape Kennedy to the moon; the moon to the Indian Ocean, where he was picked up by a helicopter, put on a military aircraft carrier and flown back to Hawaii; then to the NASA Johnson Space Center to Cape Kennedy; and, finally, home. On the Apollo spacecraft, NASA provided Armstrong quarters and meals. The government covered each expense throughout the trip. On the backside of the voucher it stated the total reimbursement: $49.10. “Neil Armstrong made less than $50 traveling to the moon,” Bruce says. “I thought the man made hundreds of thousands of dollars. Up until last Saturday, a copy of that travel voucher was on my desk. It taught me never to assume anything, always check your facts before you make a decision.” His next several assignments were to Southeast Asia: the Vietnam War. Over five years, Bruce was stationed in Thailand, Vietnam, Korea and the Philippines. As an ATC, he guided pilots through tumultuous

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F E AT U R E conditions, occasionally holding their fate in his hands. “The biggest test I had was the years in Southeast Asia, because 20 guys go out, but out of the 20, maybe 16 come back, and of the 16, four or five have battle damage and they really want to land,” Bruce says. “The problem is if you put that guy down on the runway and he crashes, the other people can’t land, so we normally have to hold those guys out and bring the good birds in first. It’s a pretty tough call to make.” In those years, the stressors of the combat environment increased the already high level of job-related stress of an ATC who makes dozens of rapid decisions in a short period of time and with no margin for error. “On one occasion I recovered 22 airplanes in about 40 minutes,” Bruce says. “As I started the recovery operation, the radar goes out. I can’t see anything, and now, based on where I saw them, I had to put them into holding patterns separated by airspeed and altitude, bringing them in on instrument approaches.” Bruce successfully landed all 22 of the aircraft. Years later as an instructor, he shared his story and realized nobody had ever completed an operation. Bruce says that before his emer-

gency experience, landing aircraft without radar as a guide was only taught as theory. After his time as an ATC, he became a radio DJ for Armed Forces Radio and Television, hosting the “Sound of Unlimited Love,” or SOUL, for a couple years. Eventually he returned to the United States to retrain into the safety career field and became the safety superintendent at Lackland AFB. As he returned to the base where he stumbled through BMT two decades earlier, Bruce realized he already had an intimate connection with his new office. “I look at this building, it’s the 37th Training Wing safety office, and I keep looking at it, and all of a sudden it dawns on me what that building is,” Bruce says. “It’s a World War II-style barracks, my original basic training barracks from 23 years ago. I go in and the secretary says, ‘That is going to be your office over there.’ I look and my MTI’s bunkroom is now my office. I cannot believe this. It is absolutely amazing. I end and begin my career in the same building.” Bruce stayed at Lackland for three years and retired with a parade that outshined any retirement he could have imagined. After a year hiatus, he returned to the Air Force by accepting a position at Holloman AFB, New Mexico,

COY OTE

and then Luke AFB to work in the safety office, where he worked for the next 24 years. “Every day is a new day for us,” Bruce says. “Our job is to keep people from getting hurt, equipment from being damaged and to keep the mission moving forward. You never know how it’s going to work out on a daily basis, but it’s a lot of fun, it’s very rewarding and very challenging.” As the occupational safety and health manager at Luke, Bruce interacted with many airmen and was involved in base operations. After a while, he noticed that people recognized him and referred to him as the “Safety Dude.” “I did everything to reject the call sign,” Bruce says. “People would say, because they remembered me from safety training, ‘Aren’t you the safety dude?’” He gave up fighting the name and even embraced it by sporting a “Safety Dude” hat and displaying the distinction on his name tag. Safety Dude has been making his mark on Luke for over 20 years. “I was a member of Mr. Bruce’s team for more than 11 years,” says Jason De Jesus, 944th SEE SAFETY PAGE 40

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F E AT U R E SAFETY FROM PAGE 38 Fighter Wing Weapons Safety manager. “I had the pleasure of being trained/mentored by him as a young, enlisted safety professional for five years, before becoming his No. 2 for another six years when I transitioned from active duty to the Air Force Reserve and joined civil service. “He has imparted enlisted heritage to generations of Thunderbolts, helping bring our history to life and making us even more proud to serve. He helped us understand how far we have come as a diverse Air Force by sharing the legacy of the Tuskegee Airmen and his personnel experiences as a black man growing up in the Air Force. As the ‘Safety Dude’ he has saved countless members of the Air Force by teaching them what not to do without causing them to become risk averse.” After more than 50 years, Bruce has experienced dozens of uniform changes, with each change the garb became more realistic and refined. He observed the culture and leadership changed in the same way. Bruce says the Air Force he joined in 1969 is vastly different from the one he leaves in 2021. He explains the biggest changes he noticed

have been professional development and promotion opportunities. Additionally, the Air Force evolved to realize that it enlists airmen but re-enlists families, therein changing to prioritize and commit to military families’ well-being. Moreover, he noticed the push to become a more accepting Air Force that embraces diversity and inclusion. Today, Bruce leaves an Air Force that aligns with the values that he and the military share. “Once I understand your story, I understand what you go through, not what I perceive you to go through,” Bruce says. “That’s your reality. My reality is totally different, but my reality doesn’t negate yours. If you’re going to help someone, you have to take action to help them. It’s not saying, ‘I’m colorblind’ or ‘I don’t have anything against the gay community.’ If you’re not working to actively support them, you’re hurting them.” As he leaves his role in the Luke safety office, he is hopeful toward his future and intent on staying busy. He plans on building his family genealogy knowledge, spending time with his kids and wife of 47 years, continuing to participate as a historian in the local Tuskegee Airmen chapter and eventually writing a book, bringing

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

the stories of the Air Force to the forefront. As for what he leaves behind, Bruce is hopeful the Air Force will only continue to improve. “I would be very disturbed and upset to end my career if it wasn’t for the people that come behind me,” Bruce says. “There are young people out there who are ready to stand up and lead the charge. Leaving after 50 years, I’ve seen (the Air Force) improve tremendously. My faith is in the people that come behind me. It’s their Air Force, and I think I’m leaving it in competent hands.” As Bruce turned off his office lights and closed the door for the last time, he reflects how his life has seemingly paralleled that of Forrest Gump. Bruce lived through the Civil Rights movement, he met Neil Armstrong, and as an ATC airman watched Richard Nixon fly across the United States in Air Force One as Gerald Ford swore in as president. “All the things I did were just right, just perfect, whether it’s a success or failure, because it created who I am today,” Bruce says. “I’ve benefited from the Air Force because it was the organization I needed at the exact moment in mind. I don’t regret that 50 years of experience, and that’s a good way to go.”

F E AT U R E

The British Are Coming T-6 “Texan” is ready for guests to ride at Airbase Arizona Flying Museum in Mesa. (Photo courtesy of

In 1941, Falcon Field welcomed the Royal Air Force BY BILL QUEHRN Airbase Arizona Flying Museum Docent

Airbase Arizona Flying Museum)

hen Paul Revere announced the British were coming in 1775, it was a warning. In 1941, the British were coming again — this time by invitation to begin pilot training at Falcon Field in Mesa. Airbase Arizona Flying Museum is mark-

ing the 80th anniversary of the opening of Falcon Field as a World War II Royal Air Force (RAF) training base by featuring the museum’s AT-6 “Texan” Trainer, which is a U.S. Navy variant called an SNJ. AT-6 planes obtained or produced by the United Kingdom were called Harvards. More

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 |

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F E AT U R E than 15,000 Texans were produced that trained nearly a half million pilots from some 34 nations, including over 2,000 RAF cadets at Falcon Field, during World War II. Falcon Field was originally to be called Thunderbird Field III by its developers Jack Connelly and Leland Hayward, whose stockholders were some of Hayward’s Hollywood friends — Jimmy Stewart, Cary Grant, Henry Fonda and Ginger Rogers. They had intended to launch a regional passenger air service. But like so many other plans of the era the war changed that. England was under almost constant attack by Luftwaffe bombers, rockets and fighters in 1941, making it a dangerous place to try and train RAF cadet pilots. An arrangement was made to train cadets at several U.S. bases, including Thunderbird III. But the name didn’t suit the young Brits, who had no appreciation for Thunderbirds but knew Falcons well. The ground-

breaking ceremony for Falcon Field was held at 10:30 a.m. on July 16, 1941. Mesa Mayor George Nicholas Goodman and Arizona Gov. Sidney P. Osborn dug the first shovels of dirt. By September until the end of the war, skies over Mesa were soon filled with AT-6 trainers flown by future RAF heroes. The North American Aviation AT-6 Texan was one of the company’s most successful and popular products. An AT-6 typically featured a 600 HP Pratt & Whitney R-1340 radial engine, a variable-pitch propeller, and retractable main landing gear. It also could be fitted with machine guns for use in gunnery training. Part of the plane’s popularity that made it an indispensable asset in WWII was its flyability. Although not as fast as a fighter, it was easy to maintain and repair. It has more maneuverability, and it was easier to handle than other training aircraft. It could roll, Immelmann, loop, spin, snap and vertical roll offering the best possible training combination in all types of

tactics from ground strafing to bombardment and aerial dogfighting. Texans, in fact, were used by several nations as attack fighters, including limited use by the U.S. Air Force in Korea. It is and has remained one of the most popular sport and historically preserved “warbird” airplanes ever produced. The Airbase Arizona Flying Museum SNJ (Texan) offers guests a chance to see it up close. On many days, they can watch it take off and land, and even buy a ride in this iconic aircraft sitting in the student seat like so many young heroes sat in training. Museum hours, admission prices, historic airplane ride reservations and other information can be found at azcaf.org. Today, Falcon Field is one of the busiest civil and commercial aviation airports in the country and is home to Airbase Arizona Flying Museum. With or without docents, the museum is a terrific place for families to appreciate the significance of the venue’s motto — educate, inspire and honor.

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F E AT U R E

Celebrating

VETERANS

Daisy Mountain parade honors service members’ sacrifices BY ALLISON BROWN Sound of Freedom Staff Writer

he Daisy Mountain Veterans Parade returns to the streets Saturday, November 6, for its 17th year of celebrating and honoring veterans, active-duty military and their families. “We’re just happy that people are getting back to it and wanting to be a part of this again,” says Reagan Briggs, secretary for Daisy Mountain Veterans. “Having a year off of anything can be really devastating. We’ve seen so many not come back after COVID and 2020. So, the fact that we’re still able to pull it off here and still able to support all the veterans is huge. This year’s sponsorship has been low as well.” The event starts at 9 a.m. with a parachute jump by the Frog X team. They will land at the Anthem soccer fields and then greet children and parents. At 9:15, Frog X will walk the flag to the front of the parade route along with the children and their parents. During this time, the team will talk to the children about what it means to be in service. At 9:30, the parachute team will present the flag to the Sandra Day O’Connor Color Guard. Then, a flyover by old wartime planes at 10

a.m. officially kicks off the parade. The route starts on the corner of Gavilan Peak Parkway and Memorial Drive and ends at the Anthem Community Center. Each year, Daisy Mountain Veterans highlights a different group of service members. This year, the parade grand marshals will be from veterans who served, or are still serving, in the U.S. military during Operation Enduring Freedom — the global war on terrorism. “Our grand marshals this year are going to be anyone who’s served from 9/11 to present day,” says Adriane Luczywko, marketing coordinator for the organization. It is the largest civilian-run parade west of the Mississippi River, meaning those who choose to participate volunteer their own time and resources to make the event happen. Briggs said more than 50 floats have signed up, with more expected. Luczywko says community partners include Doody Defense, which volunteers to clean horse and dog droppings; Boy Scouts, who put up flyers; local churches, who allow their parking lots to be used; the Anthem Country Club, who donates golf carts to be used; and several others. Briggs attended the first Daisy Mountain Veteran Parade as a child. Her dad is a Daisy Mountain Veterans member, and she volunteered for 10 years before joining the board of directors this year. Briggs said only has about 10 people put everything together behind the scenes, which makes it a daunting task. “We all have a lot of time, a lot of energy and blood, sweat and tears in this,” Briggs

says. “We are very happy to get this back and work hard doing so. We owe it to all those who served all of us to do something to celebrate. It’s a cause very near and dear to our hearts. Anything we can do we are more than happy to do. They deserve to be honored any and every day of the entire year, but if not, we’ve made one day very impactful.” Luczywko said she also has veteran and active-duty family members and volunteers her time to make sure their sacrifices are recognized both now and in the future. “Remembering those people and showing them respect is something I grew up with. So, to me, that’s something I want to pass on to the generation behind me,” she says. “Then I also see the struggles of veterans today and we see a lot of veterans and families struggling. They don’t make a lot of money, a lot of them have PTSD, and I think we should really make sure that we take care of them and we don’t forget about them.” Established because there was not an organization in the area that united veterans or current active-duty military members who had shared experiences, Daisy Mountain Veterans grew to serve north Phoenix, Desert Hills, Anthem, New River and Black Canyon. “It’s a huge deal to them. We reach a lot of veterans in and around our community,” she says. “Then other people just come to enjoy the parade, and it’s become something they do with their families. A lot of people in Anthem, if you ask them if they have been to the parade, they say, ‘Yes, we go every year.’” The event is free and open to the public. Families are encouraged to get there early for a good view of the Frog X parachute jump and are recommended to gather around the west edge of the Anthem soccer field on Gavilan Peak Parkway. Other than that, Briggs says to sit back and enjoy the day. “Bring your chair, bring anything you need, bring your friends and family, and be ready to have a really great time and to honor those who served and who are currently serving for our country,” Briggs says. WHEN: 9 a.m. Saturday, November 6 (parade starts at 10 a.m.) WHERE: Starts at the corner of Gavilan Peak Parkway and Memorial Drive, ends at the Anthem Community Center COST: Free INFO: daisymtnvets.org

NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021 |

Sound of Freedom

BUSINESS

Transitioning to

Civilian Life Community colleges help military personnel with education BY JOHN HECKENLAIBLE Sound of Freedom Contributing Writer

aking the move from active duty to civilian life can be challenging. At community colleges nationwide and locally, like Glendale Community College, there is a focus on helping military personnel get the education and training they need for a smooth transition. Recently discharged and retired military service personnel often need to reinvent themselves and get additional education to meet the needs of the workplace and prepare themselves for a secure future. Community colleges are well positioned to help. Several questions come to mind as veterans map out their academic plans, such as what should be studied, payment options and which school is the best fit. There are several factors to consider when determining what to study. First, veterans should determine their interests — business, computer technology, health services or education, for example. Next, they should research job trends to align their interests with the workforce needs. At Glendale Community College, the Veteran Services Center, academic advisement team and career services team can assist help assess academic and career plans. Payment options are aplenty. Find out what tuition costs, then research aid packages and scholarships. It is important to submit the free application for federal student aid.

The Glendale Community College Veteran Services Center helps plan academic paths, identify federal and state benefit options, certify education benefits, guide students through degree planning as well as class selection and registration. (Photo courtesy of Glendale Community College)

Determining the best type of school to attend can depend largely on the chosen field of study. Consider fully accredited schools with plenty of course offerings that will allow veterans to affordably explore options and take numerous classes in their chosen field of study. The Glendale Community College Vet-

Sound of Freedom | NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2021

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