Checkpoints June 1989

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Our thanks to Joe O’Connell of Denver, Colo, who allowed us to use his photograph of the Cadet Wing marching through the Bring Me Men” ramp in preparation for last year’s graduation parade. Information on purchasing the print can be found at the lower right of page 12.

CHECKPOINTS is published in February, May, August and November by the Association of Graduates, USAF Academy, Colo. 80840-5000 (Phone: 719-472-2067) and printed by Graphic Services of Colorado Springs, Colo. It is provided as part of an annual membership package which costs $25. Second-class postage paid at the USAF Academy, Colo. Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policy or at¬ titude of the Association of Graduates, its officers or the editorial staff. The ap¬ pearance of advertisements in this publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Association of Graduates of the products or services advertised. Copyright Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy, Spring 1989.

POSTMASTER: Send Form 3579 to Checkpoints, Association of Graduates, USAF Academy, Colo. 80840-5000.

ISSN 0274-7391

USPS 898-080

ACADEMY ALUMNI ALERT

By Lt. Col. Jerry Wyngaard, ’68, and Maj. Steve Simon, 'll

Do USAFA Grads Lack Commitment?

Greetings, and welcome to the second edition of XPA’s (Academy Alumni Office) journalistic endeavor. It is great to have this opportunity to address topics of importance to USAFA grads and friends.

As class scribes and others who write for Checkpoints know, the deadline for the next issue comes around just after the previous issue hits the streets. Consequently, we have not received much feedback from our first article. The question of the quarter was: Should Pegasus be moved from the garden north of the Ar¬ nold Hall ballroom to the traffic circle in front (west) of A-Hall? The limited responses received so far are split fairly evenly. Somewhat surprisingly, grads do not seem to have strong feelings one way or the other concerning Pegasus’ location. Here are afew of the opinions: One letter, in its entirely said “By all means, move it;” another recommended moving it, but added “be prepared for it to be painted when it’s more visible;” and one quoted the great Waldo F. Dumbsquat in arguing for Pegasus to remain in its current location —“Pegasus is one of the few parts of cadet life able to endure and become tradition.” This comment sums up the opposition’s primary argument. We’ll report addi¬ tional comments on the proposed Pegasus move in the next issue (provided we receive some).

Now for this edition’s topic. In the March 1989 Air Force Magazine, Gen. T. R. Milton (USAF, Ret), wrote an article on the Academy and its graduates (the article is reprinted elsewhere in this issue). In the column, entitled “The Commitment Gap,” General Milton states that the motivations of Academy cadets have changed over the years. In the early years, young people came to the Academy to earn the best commission available. Now, he claims, the goal is not the commission, but the pilot wings —amarketable skill. Whereas early grads wanted to serve in the Air Force, more recent grads want to gain askill they can sell, especially to the airlines. He writes, “If the airlines, with their unionized pilot structure, seniority rules, and long years of boring toil and little responsibility, are more attractive than acareer in

Association of Graduates Seeks Vice President for Development

The Board of Directors of the Association of Graduates (AOG) has resolved to solicit candidates to fill the posi¬ tion of vice president, development. The position is similar to those found at universities and in the alumni organizations of our sister service academies.

The vice president, development, acivilian employee of the association, will have responsibility for all fund¬ raising, including capital campaigns, the annual Air Force Academy Fund, and planned and deferred giving pro¬ grams. Fund-raising experience is desired but is not a prerequisite.

Interested graduates and others are invited to submit letters of application and resumes, including references and salary requirements to: Executive Vice President, Association of Graduates, USAF Academy, Colo. 80840-5000. Anticipated fill of the position is Oct. 1, 1989. Applications must be received in the of fi ce of the association not later than Aug. 15, 1989.

the Air Force, clearly something is amiss.” As more and more people apply to the Academy, the academic credentials of the ap¬ plicants, and the selectees, have increased. Perhaps, Gen. Milton postulates, “by concentrating on test scores and other qualifica¬ tions, attention may be diverted from the young person’s true commitment to amilitary career.” He suggests raising the postgraduate obligation to 10 years for non-rated graduates and 12 years for pilots. The drop in numerical quality, if not too significant, can be more than offset by the increase in dedication of those individuals who do apply to and graduate from the Academy.

What do you think? Has the motivation changed? Are graduates thinking of their post-service employment rather than their Air Force careers? If so, what can be done? Will the lengthened commitment help (post-UPT commitments have risen quite alot in the past decade, while applicant quality continued to rise)? Are there other, better solutions? Let us know what you think. Ideally, we’d like across section of grads to respond, in¬ cluding those who resigned to become airline pilots and those who were or are career officers. Our address is HQ USAFA/XPA, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840.

XPA is the Directorate of Development and Alumni Programs. We serve as the liaison between the Academy and the graduate community. In that role, we have avery close and positive work¬ ing relationship with the AOG (which is nice enough to publish our articles). To represent grads, of course, it is necessary to stay in touch with their feelings and desires. This column affords us the opportunity to raise issues and report the results. Your com¬ ments become part of the information used in the decision¬ making process. Gen. Hamm, our superintendent, specifically asked what the grads would think of aPegasus move. Your feed¬ back will have an impact on the outcome. We need your inputs and opinions to keep us pointing in the right direction. Being at the Academy, we sometimes have adifferent perspective on an issue than the average grad in the field. Please drop us aline if you have anything to contribute.

In honor of the 35th anniversary of USAFA’s founding, the Academy presented asmall Founders Day display in the Superintendent’s Conference Room. The display, to com¬ memorate President Eisenhower’s April 1, 1954 signing of the Ex¬ ecutive Order approving the Air Force Academy, included numerous historical artifacts. Included was the pen Eisenhower used to sign the Executive Order, original engineering drawings of the Academy (which look nothing like the final product), and a number of photographs of the early days. In the future, we hope to make Founders Day amuch more active and popular event, not just at the Academy, but throughout the Air Force and the AOG Chapters. (See Founders Day photo on Page 21.)

One more thing —Party !The North Texas Association of Air Force Academy Graduates is planning ahuge weekend blowout in conjunction with the Oct. 21 USAFA -Texas Christian football game. The deal includes hotel accommodations, parties, food, transportation, and game tickets. Details are provided elsewhere in this issue. We would like to endorse the work of this fi ne organization. We both took part in the post-Bluebonnet Bowl -New Year’s party they hosted in Houston on Dec. 31, 1985 -Jan. 1, 1986. It was agreat event, and the North Texas Chapter believes this will be even better than that. They would like it to be the largest graduate get-together other than Homecoming. See you there!

We hope to hear from you on the issues we have raised and any others that come to mind. Until next time. ..

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General Questions Graduates’ Commitment to Serve

By Gen. T. R. Milton, USAF (Ret), Contributing Editor, Air Force Magazine

(Editor’s note: The following article ap¬ peared in the March 1989 issue of Air Force Magazine and was entitled "The Commitment Gap." fVe thank the magazine’s editors for their permission to reprint the piece here. Reprinted by permission from Air Force Magazine. Copyright ©1989 the Air Force Association.)

In former times, the primary reason for at¬ tending aservice academy was to obtain the regular commission, awarded at graduation along with the diploma. The free education was an appreciated bene fi t —even if amonastic life¬ style and institutionalized harassment in the name of discipline did serve as areminder that nothing in life is truly free —but the commis¬ sion was the real prize. Regular commissions, with the security they implied, were hard to come by in the 1930s, and while there were other paths to that end, they were chancy; the service academies offered the only sure thing.

Those were simpler days. Today, the motiva¬ tion to attend aservice academy is more com¬ plicated, in keeping with our more complicated era. Certainly, aregular commission is no longer the grand prize. Witness the exodus of Academy graduates from the Air Force—in particular, pilots —at the earliest opportunity. The rate of resignation of Academy graduates having less than ten years’ service is only frac¬ tionally lower than that of Air Force officers as awhole. As for pilots, the airlines’ siren song is heard by ROTC and Academy graduates alike, bringing about asharp change in the record from that of earlier Air Force Academy classes.

The Academy is producing outstand¬ ing scholars—but too many graduates cut their military careers short for a job with the airlines. The pattern says that something basic is wrong.

Originally, the basic objective of the Air Force Academy was to provide pilot candidates to the Air Force. In the early days, that objec¬ tive was paramount, with one hundred percent of incoming cadets pilot-qualified and airman¬ ship occupying asignificant place in the cur¬ riculum. In time, this focus on airmanship gave way to amore rigorous academic program, and only sixty percent of incoming cadets had to possess twenty-twenty vision. That figure is

now up to seventy percent, but there has been no relaxation in the academic program. With the exception of an indoctrination course in sailplanes and light airplanes, pilot training takes place after graduation.

Gen, T.R, Milton, USAF (Ret)

Pilot wings, nevertheless, seem to be aprin¬ cipal attraction for amajority of the entering cadets, just as the Academy’s founding fathers intended. What they did not intend was that those pilot wings should be simply the symbol of amarketable skill.

The Air Force Academy —any service academy —fails in its purpose if it only pro¬ vides an education, however excellent that education may be. The principal, and maybe the only, reason to house, feed, educate, and pay 4,000 young men and women is to furnish the service with the foundation and standard for its officer corps.

The Air Force Academy, like its sister academies, is in abuyer’s market these days. With more than 4,500 fully-quali fi ed can¬ didates competing for the 1,400 slots in the entering class, the Academy can pick and choose. Scholastic aptitude scores have steadily risen to the point where the football team, a haven for the marginally capable in many schools, has an SAT average higher than the average for the entire student body in most col¬ leges. The Academy Cadet Wing is without question asuperior group of college students.

Nevertheless, the fact remains that there is something wrong. If the airlines, with their unionized pilot structure, seniority rules, and

long years of boring toil and little responsibili¬ ty, are more attractive than acareer in the Air Force, clearly something is amiss. Either the Air Force is not offering enough in the way of challenge and reward, or the Academy is mak¬ ing some mistakes in its admissions screening and later motivation.

Very likely, there is truth in both of these postulates. Few people go through amilitary career without feeling boredom or frustration and, at some point, entertaining the thought of getting out. The old West Point ballad lamented “promotions very slow,’’ and another, ruder song assured us that one never got rich. Family separations, dislocating moves, and uncertain hours all have their effect on the resignation rate. These problems have always existed, and yet most, particularly the pilots, opted to stick around.

It would appear that what we have nowadays is alack of commitment on the part of asignifi¬ cant number of Academy graduates. These young people enter the Academy with im¬ pressive credientials, they do well in ademand¬ ing environment, they take pilot training in stride, and then they begin to count the days. Or so it would seem. Afine education, afew great years flying the world’s best airplanes, and, just as the Air Force can begin to capitalize on its investment, its highly trained personnel opt out. The pattern is all too familiar.

Maybe the Academy’s aims are too high in the way of academic credentials. With so rich a group to choose from, it is only natural to select the top applicants, measured by academic scores and other achievements. But it is also possible that by concentrating on test scores and other qualifications, attention may be diverted from the young person’s true com¬ mitment to amilitary career.

One way to find out might be to raise the ser¬ vice obligation by asignificant amount: raise nonpilot’s obligation, say, from the present five years to ten, and pilots’ to twelve. If that were to reduce the pool of candidates, and in the process the test scores of the entering class, the trade-off might be acceptable so long as the drop were not too dramatic. In any case, the in¬ creased commitment would only discourage those who didn’t intend an Air Force career in the fi rst place, and that, after all, would be the idea behind it.

Court Ruling Affects Retirement Pay Tax

By Col. Alvin E. Schlechter Staff Judge Advocate

The U.S. Supreme Court held in Davis vs. Michigan Depart¬ ment of Treasury that state taxing authorities could not treat federal and state government retirement pay differently for tax purposes.

Specifically, the court concluded that it was inappropriate for state taxing authorities to tax federal retirement at ahigher rate than the rate used to tax state and local government retirement pay. The decision came March 28.

The ruling affects the following 14 states: Alabama, Arizona, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Louisiana and Missouri. It also af¬

fects Montana, New York, North Carolina, Oregon, South Carolina, Virginia and Wisconsin.

As aresult of the decision, Louisiana and Missouri have in¬ dicated that military retirees should be exempt from state income tax. Alabama and Arizona are considering making part or all government retirement pay tax-exempt. The Virginia General Assembly met May 1to consider the issue. Other states are form¬ ing task forces to study the issue.

Military retirees in most of these states should protect their rights to make retroactive claims under the Davis decision by fil¬ ing amended 1985 state tax returns by this year’s filing deadline.

(The Falcon Flyer)

1969 Graduate Elected to South Carolina Senate

Michael T. Rose, Class of 1969, was elected to the state of South Carolina Senate in last November’s elections. He garnered 71 percent of the popular vote. Rose is aRepublican and defeated an experienced incumbent Republican senator in the state’s primary last June with 54 percent of the vote. He was sworn in on Nov. 22 and will serve afour-year term beginning with the session which began this past January.

Alluding to Rose’s victories in the state’s primary, H. Allen Morris wrote in The Berkeley Independent newspaper of Moncks Corner, S.C., “Mike Rose, the new Republican candidate for the Berkeley-Dorchester District 38 Senate seat won handily in Berkeley County taking 63% of the vote cast. In Dorchester County he narrowly won.

“Candidate Rose is acase study on what superior organization, dedication and sheer intestinal fortitude will do. If he is elected in November over the Democratic candidate he could well be a future governor, U.S. Senator or even presidential material. Yes, Ihave that much preliminary faith in the ability of Mike Rose.”

An attorney, real estate developer and businessman. Rose won the senate seat on aplatform which included drug education pro¬ grams and stiffer penalties for pushers, improvement in education programs, economic development, reduction of insurance rates, and increasing government efficiency by cutting waste and un¬ necessary programs.

Last November, Rose was aguest lecturer at Stanford Business School, speaking about leadership in the morning and about “how to manage alawyer” in the afternoon. In December, he at¬ tended aconference in Washington D.C. for newly-elected legislators sponsored by the American Legislative Exchange Council.

Michael T. Rose, ’69

Rose is the founder of the Farmers Assistance Relief Mission, Inc. (FARM), anon-pro fi t organization assisting farmers distressed by drought, and he also founded the Adopt-A-Cow program which distributed seed and hay to South Carolina farmers. His past achievements earned him commendations from the South Carolina General Assembly and the Order of the Palmetto from Governor Carroll Campbell. Rose earned a master’s degree in business administration from Harvard Business School and alaw degree from New York University. He has been selected as one of the Outstanding Young Men of America.

Edmund Ladouceur Retires After 28 Years

Mr. Edmund L. Ladouceur (“Mr. L”) retired after 28 years of dedicated service to the Air Force Academy chaplains, to thousands of cadets, and to the U.S. Air Force. Ladouceur was the director of Cadet Chapel Music and the Cadet Chorale from 1984 to 1989, the Cadet Chorale associate director from 1961 to 1984, and the Catholic Cadet Chapel music director from 1961 to 1989.

Those who have had the outstanding fortune to work with Mr. Lover the years know full well the positive impact he has had on all graduates. His work has touched millions of people and he has been afriend, instructor, and counselor to well over 2,000 Air Force officers. Many graduates have commented that they might have left the Academy during their doolie year if it hadn’t been for Mr. L’s love and guidance.

To honor Mr. L’s outstanding service to the Academy, agala retirement party will be held in Colorado Springs on Thursday, Sept. 21, 1989, starting at approximately 4p.m. The tentative festivities include several presentations, aperformance by the Cadet Chorale, agreat “roast” of Mr. Lwith dinner, and ample time for socializing. This date will also coincide with Homecom¬ ing Weekend for the classes of 1969 and 1979.

One of the presentations that will be made to Mr. Lwill be a “Book of Memories” containing congratulatory and “thank you” letters from graduates, cadets, and other friends, photos from the past, cards, and other memorabilia. In addition, avery special retirement gift will be presented to Ed and Charlotte from dona¬ tions that are received from past members of the Catholic Choir and Chorale as well as his many other friends.

If you are interested in participating in or contributing to any of the above activities or presentations please contact, by June 30, 1989, Maj. John Sherfesee at home: 5752 Tuckerman Lane, Colo¬ rado Springs, Colo. 80918 (719-593-8657) or at the office: HQ USAFA/DFA, USAFA Colo. 80840-5701 (719-472-4320, Autovon 259-4320). Amailing list will be created from these responses and specific information regarding the party agenda, times, and location, room reservations and prices, etc., will then be forwarded to those individuals.

NOMINATED FOR THIRD STAR

Major Generals George L. Butler, ’61, and Henry Viccellio, Jr., ’62, have been nominated by President Bush for promotion to the grade of lieutenant general. General Butler’s new assignment will be director. Strategic Plans and Policy, J-5, on the Joint Staff; while General Viccellio will be the vice commander. Tactical Air Command, and vice commander in chief, U.S. Air Forces Atlantic, USLANTCOM.

Edmund L. Ladouceur

DESIGNED FOR YOU!

The “Home Bank” of the Air Force gives fast personalized banking ser¬ vices by mail, by phone, by wire, in person and family-type personalized service designed for graduates around the world. Your continuing support permits us to meet your re¬ quirements for hassle-free service.

Signature loans up to $5,000.00 are available at competitive rates to graduates on active duty who main¬ tain an active Air Academy National Bank checking account and who are on the Sure Pay Direct Deposit Pro¬ gram. Home Bank rates are better than ever. Get the facts, compare and save.

Inquiries invited —(719) 472-1094

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Colorado Springs, CO 80840

Mission: “To provide to each cadet. ..

ABook Review of: The Air Force Academy: An Illustrated History

By George V. Fagan (USAF, Ret), Johnson Books, Boulder, Colo. 1988

If you haven’t been an Academy history buff, here’s your chance to catch up and become one now. In his preface, Dr. Fagan stresses the need for more specialized histories on various aspects of the Academy. I’ve been tempted to write those histories, to go off on tangents, to give details Iremembered. In fact, my notes about this history are mostly about things Iwish were in it. George Fagan’s Illustrated History is captivating —it lets you relive your own Academy experience, and supply your own private set of additional details. All of my family enjoyed reading it. That includes my wife who has known the Academy since 1969, two daughters who grew up there and dated cadets, ason who may someday be acadet, and ason-in-law from the Class of 1983.

Writing ahistory is anatural for Dr. (Colonel) George V. Fagan. Before directing the Academy’s library and later Colorado College’s, he was ahistory professor at Temple University, at the Naval Academy, and at USAFA. His work on this history began in 1955 when USAFA’s first dean, Don Zimmerman, sent him from Denver to research the historical background of the Academy site. So his book draws not only on documents and oral histories but on his own personal experience. It covers events and personalities from the long struggle to create the Academy through 1986, when all cadet rooms had computers and the top graduate was awoman. The viewpoint is clearly that of afaculty member —more involved mostly in the early years.

Iwas surprised to learn just how hard the people of Lake Geneva, Wis. and Alton, 111. fought to keep the Academy from being built there. By contrast, the people of Colorado Springs fought hard and well to bring the Academy here. Nevertheless, as always, the exercise of the right of eminent domain brought heartache and disappointment to some of the people whose homes the Academy displaced. This part of the story was particularly interesting and was written with great sensitivity.

My favorite aspect of the history: few great people appear and reap¬ pear: Lt. Gen. Harmon was special assistant for Air Force Academy Mat¬ ters in 1949, and Lt. Gen. Harmon was superintendent in 1954. Col. William S. Stone helped the Air Force Academy Planning Board design the curriculum in 1948, and Maj. Gen. Stone became superintendent in 1959. President of Columbia University Dwight D. Eisenhower jointly chaired the Sterns-Eisenhower Board in 1949, and President of the United States Dwight D. Eisenhower signed the Academy Bill into law in 1954.

Fagan chronicles both the highs and the lows. Some might say he was too frank about the honor scandals. Certainly the detail in this part is ex¬ cruciating. One particular honor item caught my attention: Fagan states that the addition in the fall of 1961 of “discretion” to the Honor Code strengthened it. 1don’t necessarily agree, but then neither Fagan nor 1 have facts to prove our points. Clearly he shares the idealistic vision of the Academy when he quotes from the 1956 White Report: The difficulty of reconciling the purely intellectual with the strictly military is not to be blinked away. But the Academy’s success depends upon its ability to produce well-rounded career officers, professionals in the highest meaning of the word, who are dedicated to duty, honor, and service to country. To combine intellectual development with military discipline is its very mission, (page 160) Here are some criticisms: Fagan’s history is asound of fi cial history of origins, buildings, and administrations. It gives insights into the feelings and attitudes of many of the major players, but it is lacking in human tex¬ ture that comes from stories about the principal population —the cadets. More of their stories would add adimension to the reader’s understand¬ ing.

There is abit of local cadet color that perhaps only cadets from the first few classes would know or care about, but 1noticed the change of ter¬ minology. At graduation, the Class of ’62 tossed their clandestinely red-

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covered white hats into the air. Fagan wrote: “The ‘Red Devils’ had lived up to their name.” (page 141) Iknew them as “Reg Tag Bastards (RTBs),” their ladies being known as “Red Tag Babes,” aname that reflected the use of class colors on name tags, bathrobes, etc. Perhaps Dr. Fagan knew something we did not, or perhaps in using aeuphemism, he was following the lead of historians who tell us that at the December 1944 Battle of the Bulge, General Anthony C. McAuliffe responded, “Nuts,” when asked by the Germans to surrender.

Cadets, who saw all sides of the terrazzo and who stayed at the Academy longer than most officers, often knew more than the cadre realized. Thus graduates will read this history with particular interest and insight.

There are lots of photographs throughout the book, though not as many as Iwould have expected given the title. Iwould have liked more about the airmanship programs and athletics, though what’s here gets a fair and balanced treatment.

My chief annoyance: Dr. Fagan reports anonymous opinions in the text. You have to search notes and bibliography to identify sources of many quotations. 1like to know readily who said what.

Bottom Line: Your education at the Academy is not complete until you’ve read this book, and you’ll miss out on agood time if you don’t.

We asked Tom Eller (Dr., Lt. Col. Ret., Thomas J., ’61) to review Dr. Fagan’s book for us. As acadet he was into everything. As cadet editor of CONTRAILS, he started the CONTRAILS CALENDAR. He later served on the faculty as professor and head of Astronautics and Com¬ puter Science, in the Comm Shop as aGroup AOC, on the Athletic Review Committee, and as ex-officio on the Athletic Association Ad¬ visory Council. Tom is aformer president of the AOG. Thanks to Dr. Tom Murawski, ’65 for help on grammarl

The hard-cover edition of Colonel Fagan’s book may be ordered for $29.95 from Johnson Books, 1880 S. 5th Court, Boulder, Colo. 80801 or call toll free: 1-800-662-BOOK. Visa and MasterCard accepted.

Corporate Life Members Association of Graduates USAFA

Air Academy National Bank

Air Force Association

Ampex Corporation

Boeing Aerospace Company

Continental Electronics

(Division of Varian Associates, Inc.)

Electronic Data Systems Corp.

McDonnell Douglas Corporation

The MITRE Corporation

Rockwell International

TRW, Inc., Electronics &Defense Sector

United Services Automobile Association

United Technologies Corporation

USAF Academy Athletic Association

Walsworth Publishing of Colorado

Westinghouse Electric Corporation

Defense &Electronic Center

Corporate life memberships are being initially offered for $2,000. With the exception of voting and holding office, mem¬ bers enjoy all privileges of regular members. For more informa¬ tion on corporate life memberships write to Charles F. Gaasch, director of development. Association of Graduates, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-5000. Phone: (719) 472^513

THE SECRET LIFE OF WALDO F. DUMBSQUAT

By Don Hall, ’76

Waldo’s chemistry instructor. Captain Lit¬ mus, dismissed the seventh period class.

“Have agood weekend.

The delighted doolies fled the classroom of balanced equations. It was Friday. The wonders of Arnold Hall awaited the fresh¬ men. Waldo and his friends, Warren Heels and “Regs” Buch, double-timed back to the old dorm. Back in their three-man room, they noticed that laundry had been delivered. Regs folded his underwear and put it in the ap¬ propriate drawer. Waldo dumped his recentlycleaned garments into the laundry bin. Warren crammed his laundry bag, clothes and all, into his overhead.

“Okay, chores are done!” chuckled Warren.

“Time to change into Bravo!” cheered Regs.

“And hit A-Hall!” chortled Waldo.

As the three roommates did the airborne shuf fl e across the terrazzo, they noticed how deserted the cadet area appeared.

“Did aneutron bomb go off?” whispered Waldo to his friends shuffling in front of him.

“No,” Regs whispered back over his shoulder. “The firsties have Top Off privileges, the two degrees have brevit lieutenant, and the three smokes are picking up their cars.

The planetarium looked like asilent, lonely fussball as the doolies approached the cadet recreational facility. Inside Arnold Hall, Waldo noted the definite absence of people.

“There’s ade fi nite absence of people.

“Yeah, Idon’t even see the command post detail,” said Regs.

Ashiver went up their spines.

What if we’re trapped in here with an ax murderer!” mused Warren nervously.

“It’s worse than that,” shuddered Waldo. “There’s afirstie on restriction over there!”

The forlorn figure sat slumped in achair. The cobwebs were evidence of the upperclassman’s pitiful situation.

“He’s been here along time.”

Waldo’s voice seemed to animate the cadet.

“Hey, you doolies, come here.”

The Blue Z oe

Yes, sir.

What are you doing here?”

We’re here for agood time.”

Get alife, dumb wad!”

Sir, that’s Dumbsquat.”

What good times are you going to find here?” growled the fi rstie.

“Bowling,” said Warren.

“The bowling alley is gone.

“See amovie.”

“No movie tonight.

“Video games.

“Out of order.

“Play the jukebox.

“The only songs on it are Walk the Dinosaur and Puppy Love.

“Girls in the smackbar.

“You brought girls with you?

»>

“Sir, may Iask aquestion?”

“You just did.

“Yes, sir. Which room is the smackbar?”

“Don’t know anymore. They keep changing the names. Upperclsss lounge, twenty-one club, Arnie’s disco. ..”

Waldo noticed two men walking around the ballroom.

“Look, signs of intelligent life.

The firstie shook his head, “Nope, those are the diggers and fillers. They’re planning to upgrade the appearance of the en¬ trance to Arnold Hall by moving Pegasus.”

The doolies gasped. No one could move Pegasus. Pegasus was one of the few parts of cadet life able to endure and become tradi¬ tion.

Waldo disappeared into one of the many empty rooms and transformed into Colonel Waldo F. Dumbsquat, atraditional kind of guy. The colonel strolled over to the engineers, talked with them, and then ducked quickly into alatrine.

Upon Waldo’s return, Warren Heels noticed that the diggers and fi llers were leaving.

“I wonder where they’re going?” asked the firstie.

“Sir, Iheard they plan to leave Pegasus alone. They’re on their way to dig up the Air Gardens again.” Everyone sighed.

Regarding ^THE BLUE ZOO

by Blake F. Lindner, 78

7’ve consistently found that one of the most common traits of zoombags is not their intelligence or athletic prowess but their ever-present sense of humor. For many, that sense of humor served auseful purpose in helping us deal with the fourthclass system. Combining such an odd, but demanding, system with young men and women of great talent and determination can make for acomical chain of events. Talking to other graduates. I’ve been brought to tears laughing at some of the things we did throughout the years.

Ihope to document these situations through my cartoons. Over the years. I’ve done similar work in the doofer logs of the squadrons I’ve been apart of. Ihave always found that my best cartoons come from other people’s ideas. For that reason, Ire¬ quest that you send your thoughts and anecdotes to me, through the editor, so Ican accurately sketch the history we’ve all worked so hard to make.

USAFA HAT &SCARF SET

Above prices for AOG members. Nonmembers please add 20%.

Colorado residents add 3% tax.

Specify class year if desired in class colors. If not specified, colors will be blue and white and hat will read “USAFA” only.

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Silver /Blue

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Academy Garners Numerous Design Awards

The Academy has won numerous excellence-in-design awards over the past year, the most recent being the repair project at Falcon Stadium which won the Academy civil engineers anational award for design ex¬ cellence from the Precast Concrete Institute, and also aregional award for design excellence from the American Concrete Institute.

In January, former Secretary of Defense Frank Carlucci presented the Blue Seal Award for architectural excellence to the Academy for the new visitor center, which was chosen as the best project in its category as a recreational building and then went on to win against other category win¬ ners in the Department of Defense Design Excellence Program.

Last year, an academy plan for growth and development won highest honors in its category in the 1988 Air Force Design Awards Program. This Academy master plan, which set the guideline for projects such as the recently-completed Mitchell Hall expansion and future projects such as aFairchild Hall addition, won the honor award in the master planning category. Command architect Duane A. Boyle was the project architect for all three projects.

The most recent award, the Falcon Stadium project, was the only federal government project to win awards from the concrete institutes. Built in the 1960s, the cast-in-place concrete structure of the stadium had moved substantially due to foundation and soil conditions. Without repairs to stabilize the structure, it would have continued to move with failure of certain portions of the facility apossibility.

The corrective design involved drilling through the concrete retaining walls at each of the three seating tiers and placing steel tie back anchors at specific intervals. Once the anchor installation was complete, an extensive drainage system was added to carry away water. To finish the project, precast concrete panels were used to clad the tier walls which by that time were covered with piping and steel plates.

These precast panels were selected for their lower cost than granite, which covers other academy retaining walls, and because local precast concrete fabricators could meet the structural and architectural re¬ quirements of civil engineering. Construction crews drilled 196 holes three inches wide and 45 feet deep. Asteel rod was then inserted into each hole, cemented into the mountain and held in place on the wall by asteel plate and bolt. Each rod was tested to withstand 90 to 100 tons of pressure, and is set at 75 percent of each rod’s maximum strength. The anchors did not straighten the walls, but stabilized them.

The problem was not unique to Falcon Stadium. Stadiums at the University of Texas-El Paso and at the University of California-Berkeley also have experienced similar problems. According to stadium manager Tony Guerrero, other factors that may have caused the problem are ground pressure exerted from the mountains, water pressure, and the freezing and thawing processes.

winning the

The need for the master plan which won the 1988 Air Force Design Award was recognized in 1983 when the senior staff anticipated the dramatic impact that several large projects would have on the cadet area. The architectural firm that made the original academy design was tasked once again to set the guideline. “We wanted to make sure that any new building or addition to buildings in the cadet area gets placed in the right

Don Augherbaugh positions aprecast concrete panel, suspended from a crane, into place onto the Falcon Stadium facade. (Photo by SSgt. Renee Tyron)

location,” command architect Boyle said. “In the past we’ve had problems with buildings that were haphazardly located and sited. We wanted to avoid that.”

The architectural firm of Skidmore, Owings and Merrill studied how the cadet area is utilized, who uses it, and looked for space deficits. This information was combined with special requirements each building need¬ ed in order to expand. Now, if building expansion is needed, there is a plan to show where the expansion should be and how it should be done. The cadet gym and Mitchell Hall expansion projects currently underway or recently completed were affected by the new master plan.

The dining rooms, cadet stores and warehouse space included in the Mitchell Hall project were originally designed to be built onto the south side of the dining facility. Instead, the new plan called for it to be built underground between Mitchell Hall and Sijan Hall, and allows possible future development of the area. “The original building was going to look like afinger attached to the cadet area and would have looked out of place,” Boyle said.

The gym expansion originally was to be built onto the north side until the architectural fi rm decided that amore continuous look would be gained if the expansion were switched to the east side facing the field house. “When it’s done you won’t be able to tell that there’s been an addi¬ tion to that building,” Boyle said.

The field house is an example of abuilding that does not conform with the international style of architecture chosen for the cadet area. The blue columns do not match the color scheme of the academy, and the scale and proportion is inaccurate, Boyle said.

The international style architecture was derived during the 1940s and early 1950s. In this style, the structure is always exposed, and has asimple form with extremely sophisticated detailing. The simple and rectangular buildings of the cadet area are reflective of this style. The chapel, however, is in definite and planned opposition to the simplicity of the other buildings.

Other projects included in the master plan consist of anew academic building east of Fairchild Hall, an addition to Arnold Hall and renova¬ tion to Sijan Hall. The new academic building, which would consist of 210,000 square feet, would include amedical clinic and laboratory. Many of the functions in Fairchild would be transferred to the new facility to open up more space in the current site. The addition to Arnold Hall, which is under design, includes additional band and lounge space. Also under design is the renovation project in Sijan Hall which would convert existing storage space into more cadet rooms.

Although there are no plans to increase the size of the Cadet Wing, the master plan would provide for this by increasing the size of Vandenberg and Sijan halls and the new academic building, and by building another athletic building, an underground air garden mall and adding additional administration space.

In

Blue Seal Award for the Academy Visitor Center, the Academy competed against many projects from all branches of the Department of Defense both here and abroad. In the photograph at the award acceptance ceremony, are from left, Duane Boyle, command ar¬ chitect; John J. Wallace, of Wallace and Associates, architect for the visitor center project; Lt. Gen. Charles R. Hamm, superintendent; and John C. Patchett, deputy chief of staff for civil engineering.

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Academy Alumni Discuss 30 Years of History

By 2nd Lt. Robyn Chumley Public Affairs Division, Malmstrom AFB, Mont.

(Editor’s note: The following was reprinted from the March 10, 1989 High Plains WARRIOR, the newspaper of Malmstrom AFB.)

He slipped on his blue college jacket with the number “60” in big, white letters on the front. To his surprise —it still fit. Sort of. “I had no idea if it would,” said Col. Stephen Holt, ’60, chief of Special Investigations and Inquiries with the 341st Strategic Missile Wing. He tugged down on the slightly-snug “artifact” (his word).

There were several other blue jackets in the room, and even a blue bathrobe —wool, by the way. Banners from pep rallies were draped across the wall, and buttons boldly stating “Beat Army” and “Depth Charge Navy” rested with calendars, magazines and college newspapers on the memorabilia table. Avideotape chronicling 1986 at the Air Force Academy played continuously for interested onlookers.

The cause for celebration was an Academy graduates gettogether March 3at the Malmstrom AFB Officers Club. About 25 of the 39 graduates on base showed up to rehash old times and swap “when-I-was-there” stories.

First Lieutenant Lori Cardinal, ’86, 341st Combat Support Group, arranged the event, which was the idea of Col. Charles Coolidge, ’68, 301st Air Refueling Wing vice commander. “We just thought it would be nice for those of us who share this com¬ mon interest to get together,” Lieutenant Cardinal said.

Colonel Holt, who began his training at the academy in July 1956, graduated in only the second class at the academy. “We have over 30 years of history involved in this room,” he told the other graduates. “You better talk with us old folks soon —we’re not going to be around much longer.” He talked of the memorabilia around the room, and of the things that have changed at the Academy, such as no more mandatory dance classes, and things that remained the same.

Lieutenant Cardinal (graduation name Lori Curl) stood with some of her classmates as the videotape played, each of them picking out their squadron and remembering other students. One segment showed students reading alittle red book while standing in formation. The book, titled “Contrails,” contained quotes and facts that students must memorize and immediately recall wordfor-word when questioned by upperclassmen.

The youngest graduates at Malmstrom, Class of ’87, didn’t at¬ tend the party. “Duty calls,” Colonel Coolidge said. But those who did attend shared in reliving some college memories, and had achance to —as Colonel Holt said —talk to the “old folks” while they’re still around.

Mrs. Rosanna Depner, Cadet Group Three secretary for the past 10 years, receives aplaque and saber from CIC Dwayne Miller at her retirement celebration Feb. 1in Arnold Hall. Mrs. Depner began her civil service career in 1942 and retired with 30 years of total service (Photo by Darrell Wagner)

Classified ads are limited to three column inches each. Rates are $18 acol¬ umn inch plus $13.50 if art or make-up are required. Halftones (photos) are an additional $10.50 each. Send your copy or double-spaced typewrit¬ ten ad to Editor, Checkpoints magazine. Association of Graduates, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-5000.

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Colonel Holt, ’60, shows 1st Lt. Brian Fletcher, ‘86, a1956 issue of the Air Force Academy magazine. (Photo by 2nd Lt. Robyn Chumley)

AOG &USAFA Gift Merchandise

1Lance Sijan Book {Into the Mouth of the Cat by Malcolm McConnell, 253 pages, hardbound)

2Sth Anniversary Book (260 pages, 9x12 hardbound pictorial history of the Academy)

AOG Carafe Set (one carafe and two glasses)

USAFA Carafe Set (one carafe and two glasses) $22.00

Academy Sport Cap

With class year:

Without numerals

Musical Booster Button (3 'A "Falcon spirit button plays the Air Force Song)

License Plate Frames (Imprinted “Alumnus, U.S. Air Force Academy”) One Two

Laser-Engraved Walnut Plaque (of Cadet Area)

Cadet Saber (Sold to graduate AOG members only)

Chapel Mantel Clock (Westminster chimes, battery-powered, Bulova)

FINE ART PRINTS

"Here’s aToast" Limited edition of 850 signed and numbered by the artist Keith Ferris. 24x30" print of F-16 missing man formation flown during the 1983 Homecoming Memorial Ceremony.

"Gyrfalcon:” Limited AOG com¬ memorative issue signed by artist, Charles Frace. 20x26" print.

’82" Thunderbirds Over Academy:’’ Edition of 750 signed by artist, Rick Broome. 20x28" print.

’83 "To Conquer the Air.” Limited edition of an F-15 over the Academy signed by artist, Rick Broome. 20x25" print.

NOTE: Prices are for AOG members and include postage. Non-AOG members please add 20^70 in appropriate column below.

Academy Sport Caps (with or without class year)

Please send entire page to: AOG Gifts, Association of Graduates, USAF Academy, CO 80840-5000

Name:

Address:

City/State/Zip:

Telephone: Work: Home:

Mastercard # Exp. Date:

VISA# Exp. Date:

TOTAL ORDER

Non-AOG members please add 20%

Colo, residents add 3% sales tax

TOTAL ENCLOSED

BUILDING FUND DONORS

The AOG Board of Directors acknowledges with sincere appreciation the following contributors who pledged and made cash contribu¬ tions to the AOG Building Fund from Jan. 27 to April 15, 1989. We encourage others to join these dedicated graduates and friends in this most important project. Contributions and pledges made after April 15, 1989 will be listed in the next publication of Checkpoints.

CHECKPOINTS

DONORS ($25,000-$99,999)

Hughes Aircraft Company

Lockheed Corporation

Rockwell International

CONTRAILS DONORS ($10,000-$24,999)

Atlantic Rich fi eld Company TRW, Inc.

FALCON DONOR ($5,000-$9,999)

Northrop Corporation

TALON DONORS ($l,000-$4,999)

Richard SAbramson ’68

Kimbrough S&Carole Bassett

Michael JBeezley ’69

William LEstelle 75

Robert JHovde ’64

TAKEOFF DONORS ($25-$999)

DKala Anderson ’85

Jim Bannwart ’67

William HBode ’64

Douglas RBrower 72

Mrs John RBuscher &Sons

In Memory of

John Buscher ’65

Guy Dennis ’64

Glenn ADorman 76

Samuel PFinch III ’64

Brien &Claire Fitzpatrick ’84

Terry CIsaacson ’64

David ALengyel 78

Martin JNeuens ’64

Orange County Chapter, AOG

Donald LPalky ’64

Peter DRobinson ’62

Howard CRose Jr ’65

Harold EWatson ’64

James CWeydert 72

Karl CWidmayer III ’64

In recognition of the needs of the Association of Graduates (AOG) of the United States Air Force Academy, it is my (our) intention to the AOG Capital Fund Campaign in support of the construction of apermanent

Signature(s):

Board of Visitors Conducts Annual Meeting

The Air Force Academy Board of Visitors conducted its annual meeting at the Academy in early March.

The board met to inquire into morale, discipline, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods and other academy-related matters. The agenda included brief¬ ings, discussions and interviews.

The Board of Visitors was established by provisions of Title 10 U.S. Code, Section 9355. Board members visit the academy at least annually. With the approval of the secretary of the Air Force, the board or its members may make other inputs to the academy in connection with the duties of the board or to consult with the superintendent of the academy. Within 60 days of the visit, the board submits awritten report to the president covering its actions, views and recommendations.

There are 15 members of the board. Six are appointed by the president, four by the speaker of the House of Representatives, three by the vice president, and one each by the House and Senate Armed Serviees Committees.

The presidential appointees are Holly Coors of Golden Colo.; former Sen. Barry M. Goldwater, Phoenix; Mr. James C. Miller III, Washington; Lawrence Hecker, New Canaan, Conn.; Anne L. “Nancy” Schulze, McLean, Va.; and Charles B. “Bud” Wilkin¬ son, St. Louis.

Appointed by the vice president are Sens. Thad Cochran (R-Miss.), Larry Pressler (R-S.D.), and Harry M. Reid (D-Nev.). Sen. Timothy E. Wirth (D-Colo.) was appointed by the chair¬ man of the Senate Armed Services Committee and Rep. Thomas J. Downey (D-N.Y.) was appointed by the chairman of the House Armed Services Committee.

Appointed by the speaker of the House of Representatives were Reps. Doug Barnard (D-Ga.), Norman D. Dicks (D-Wash.), Joel Hefley (R-Colo.), and Thomas DeLay (R-Tex.). (The Falcon Flyer)

HELP BUILD AHOME FOR YOUR ASSOCIATION!

Send your tax-deductible donation now to the Association of Graduates Headquarters /Alumni House Building Fund.

USE THE PLEDGE CARD BELOW.

Association of Graduates

Available Member Bene fi ts/Services

● CHECKPOINTS Magazine — your quarterly link to friends, classmates and the Academy.

● REGISTER OF GRADUA TES — annual presentation of biographical information on all Academy graduates.

● AOG MASTERCARD — favorable terms and credit limits from Air Academy National Bank.

● CAR RENTAL DISCOUNTS — special rates from Budget -(800) 527-0700 (AOG ID #0000108).

Donation and Recognition Levels

Please check your donation level

TAKEOFF Donor [$25 —$999]

TALON Donor ($1,000 —$4,999]

FALCON Donor [$5,000 —$9,999]

CONTRAILS Donor [$10,000 —$24,999]

CHECKPOINTS Donor [$25,000 —$99,999]

POLARIS Donor [$100,000 or more]

● HOTEL DISCOUNTS — save 10% at participating Clarion, Comfort and Quality Inns, Hotels, Resorts -(800) 221-2222.

● MORE HOTEL DISCOUNTS — 15% savings at Wood fi n Suites(800) 237-8811.

● SCHOLARSHIPS — apreparatory school scholarship via the Falcon Foundation & future graduate dependent scholar¬ ships.

● REUNIONS/HOMECOMINGS — coordination and planning by your AOG.

● CHAPTERS — support for some 25 chapters throughout the world.

● MERCHANDISE/MEMORABILIA — Academy/AOG —unique items created especially for members.

● SABER RENTAL — sets of six for the military wedding.

● LOCATOR SERVICE — need to find afellow graduate? We help!

Contributions of SKKX) or more will be recognized on apermanently displayed plaque in the lobby of the Association of Graduates building. Other contributors’ names will be kept in aspecial leather-bound volume that will also be displayed in the lobby.

Ichoose to pay my contribution pledge over the following period, payable as indicated on the front of this card:

1Year Period

2Year Period

Please contact me about my gift

My employer will match my gift with $ [Please enclose Matching Gift Form from your employer]

Thank you for your support of the AOG!

Grad’s Return to Academy Means Another Record

By Sgt. Scott Davis Editor, Falcon Flyer

It’s hard to beat the thrill of flying Mach 1in afully-loaded F-4 over West Germany.

Or is it?

For Capt. Norman Howell, 1982 academy graduate and Air Force pilot, it’s not the size of the plane that matters —but how many records it will set.

For the Air Force, Captain Howell flies an F-4G Wild Weasel with the 23rd Tactical Fighter Squadron, Spangdahlem AB, West Germany. But in his spare time, he sets aviation records.

“I’ve always been interested in flying,” Captain Howell said. “Of course, my interest is probably more rabid than most.”

His love for flying and his desire to make his mark in aviation history brought him back to Colorado Springs recently. Under the watchful eyes of aNational Aeronautical Association-ap¬ pointed official March 16, Captain Howell set the record for altitude in horizontal flight in an aircraft weighing between 300 and 500 kilograms.

Founders’ Day

Col. George P. Milne, Lt. Col. and Mrs. Gerald F. Wyngaard and Maj. Steve Simon, from the Plans and Programs Directorate, look over the Founders’ Day memorabilia March 31 in the superintendent’s conference room. The display, compiled by the Cadet Library’s Special Collections Branch, commemorated the anniversary of President Eisenhower signing the bill establishing the academy April 1, 1954. More than 200 people stopped by to see the display. (Photo by Darrell Wagner)

Capt. Norman Howell, ’82, checks the EZ airplane in which he broke an altitude record March 16 over Pikes Peak. (Photo by Sgt. Scott Davis)

Climbing high over Pikes Peak, the captain attained an altitude of 25,160 feet in alightweight, long EZ home-built airplane and broke the previous mark of 23,900 feet in the process.

The unofficial record awaits approval of the NAA and the Federation Aeronautique Internationale, aParis-based organiza¬ tion that certi fi es all world aviations records.

Captain Howell continues to set aviation records. With his Ug¬ ly Quickling, an amateur-built plane with a52-horsepower, 2-stroke engine, he set four world records. Each record has since been broken, leading him to Pikes Peak.

“I’m always looking for other records to break,” he said.

For his most recent accomplishment. Captain Howell borrowed the EZ from Terry Schubert from Olmstead Falls, Ohio. But his first four records came in the Quickie, aplane which he began building as acadet.

“I built the Quickie while Iwas here,” Captain Howell said. “The fuselage was put together in Sijan Hall.”

From that auspicious beginning. Captain Howell made his mark on aviation. Now, he looks forward to testing Air Force planes.

“After Ifinish my tour at Spangdahlem, I’d like to go to test pilot school,” he said. “If not, then I’d like to be reassigned to the academy for the soaring program.”

Whether he’s testing the latest fighter or working with cadets. Captain Howell hopes to continue extending the limits of his air¬ craft —in his Quickie or an F-4. (The Falcon Flyer)

Nonretired Civilian Grads Golf Course Use Explained

(Editor’s note. Anumber of years ago, through arequest from the Association of Graduates, the Academy instituted a policy for allowing nonretired civilian Academy graduates to use the Academy’s golf courses. We have recently had ques¬ tions from some of our graduates concern¬ ing this ruling and have published the let¬ ter from the Deputy Chief of Staff for Morale, Welfare and Recreation which outlines the policy.)

1. Academy Grads’ Day at the USAF Academy Golf Course will be established on the fi rst and third Thursdays of each month. Non-retired graduates who are no longer in the service may play on these special days.

2. The golf course will make available to the Association of Graduates (AOG) four tee times beginning at 0900 on the fi rst

Thursday of each month and four tee times beginning at 1300 on the third Thursday of each month for use by graduates. Graduates wishing to use these tee times must make reservations through the AOG who will provide the golf course with the names of the players and their tee times. We emphasize that the graduates must go through the AOG office for reser¬ vations. Tee time reservations not sched¬ uled by 1000 on the Monday prior to each Grads’ Day will be made available to active duty golfers for the Thursday reservation period, which begins at 1200 on Monday.

3. Graduates who reside outside the Front Range area and who anticipate visit¬ ing Colorado Springs on other than the first and third Thursdays of the month should contact the AOG in advance re¬ garding golfing opportunities. The AOG

will notify golf course personnel when a graduate who desires to play golf will be visiting the Academy. Golf course person¬ nel will place the graduate’s name on await¬ ing list for the desired day of play. We will then fit these golfers into existing groups as best we can. In the case of active duty or retired graduates, it may be possible to provide atee time using the advance tee time reservation rules applicable to nonAcademy military personnel and retirees.

4. Appropriate green fees will apply in the above instances with reciprocal privileges for active duty who have annual membership at other Air Force courses.

5. On such occasions as class reunions and homecoming, we will schedule atour¬ nament to accommodate all.

Robert E. Lee, Jr., Colonel, USAF DCS/ Morale, Welfare, and Recreation

Second Career Successes of Service Academy Graduates

By

Richard M. Coffman, University of South Carolina, and Frederick V. Malmstrom (USAFA ’64), University of Dayton

In 1984 and 1985 we published two Checkpoints articles describing about five years’ worth of our personal research into both why service academy graduates left the service and where they went after they left the service. As adirect result of those findings, we felt pretty confident we could now begin to attack the problem of identifying who these graduates were. The problem of organizational turnover is always an expensive one to solve. After all, it can cost the services well in excess of $1 million to train acombat-ready pilot. Therefore, if we could find that magic factor which could identify early in their careers the types of academy graduates who were most likely to exit the service before retirement, we could help save the armed forces many unnecessary training costs.

Of course, early identification of non-career oriented cadets and mid¬ shipmen is not anew idea; all academies have been doing this for years with their own internally-funded research organizations. But what these fine research organizations do not generally do is to make long-term follow-ups of their graduates after they either retire or resign from the services.

In early 1986 we began acompletely self-funded effort of interviewing, testing, and surveying now-civilian academy graduates who had subse¬ quently either retired or else had resigned their commissions. After col¬ lecting, analyzing, and digesting ahuge amount of data on over 200 representative USMA, USNA, and USAFA graduates, we came to some rather surprising conclusions. To be quite frank, we never did locate that magic factor which would allow us to distinguish between retirees and resignees, but we did locate several other factors which would allow us to predict the second career successes of academy graduates.

We began with the findings of our previous Checkpoints studies. The first conclusion was that our sample of USMA and USAFA graduates usually resigned for the following reasons: (1) inability to control their own careers, (b) family-related reasons, and (c) boring or unchallenging work. Only rarely did issues like pay and benefits enter into adecision to resign from the services. The second conclusion was that, given the choice, academy graduates preferred to control their own businesses or practices. In fact, we uncovered amind-boggling fact that over 20 percent of all graduates who resign become attorneys, most of them in private practice.

Above All, Are Academy Graduates Achievers?

Our previous sample of “typical” academy graduates and, coincidental¬ ly, of lawyers, seemed to possess to aman the following characteristics: they were extremely (a) self-confident, (b) confident, and (c) determined to control their own destinies. In short, academy graduates seemed to fit the mold of what psychologist David McClelland termed “The SelfMotivated Achiever.” It seemed, therefore, that both USMA and USAFA were doing abetter job training achievers rather than leaders.

We reasoned that there must have been significant differences in early cadet and career expectations which would either lead these men to resign or else pursue retirement. Could it have been early frustrated career achievement, desire for higher income, or pure job dissatisfaction? In retrospect, graduates might offer us some insight into their expectations at several milestones of their careers, say (1) upon entry into active duty, (2) upon leaving active duty, and (3) the present.

This time, unlike the previous Checkpoints studies, we included com¬ parisons of all three major service academies. We reasoned the nominally

more technical educations of USNA and USAFA would offer graduates more market-ready skills, such as engineer and airline pilot. Hence, we could expect higher civilian incomes, job satisfaction, and asense of achievement among the USNA and USAFA graduates. Conversely, we predicted USMA graduates,*night mesh less readily with the civilian job market.

We conducted anationwide mail survey of 300 now-civilian graduates of the three major services academies (100 USMA, 100 USNA, and 100 USAFA) randomly selected from the graduating classes of 1959 through 1961. Half were of fi cers who retired, and half had resigned from active service prior to retirement. Of our original random sample of 300 selected from the various Registers of Graduates, we received agenerous 73 per¬ cent return rate. All data were compiled by July 1986. Of these 219 returns, 198 were considered complete and usable. Two surveys were regretfully not used because they were completed by the wives of deceased graduates, and the remaining 21 were rejected because either they were grossly incomplete or otherwise indecipherable. Table Ishows the num¬ bers of returned, usable surveys:

The Survey

For those of you less inclined to statistical design and more inclined to reading the bottom line, you may skip this section. Otherwise, we will now describe the survey, its contents and rationale.

The survey itself consisted of three sections. Demographics, 15 scaled attitude-type questions (i.e. “strongly disagree” to “strongly agree” kinds of questions), and three predictor questions on annual income, achieve¬ ment, and job satisfaction. (It is generally believed that job satisfaction, achievement, and salary are pretty much unrelated.)

The demographics section included academy attended (USMA, USNA, USAFA), graduating class (1959, 1960, 1961), branch of service, and retired/resigned status. The scaled attitude questions included responses to three milestones in the graduate’s careers, namely entry to active duty (E), leaving active duty (L), and the present (P). Five factors were an¬ alyzed at each of these three milestones: salary (S), family (F), promo¬ tions (P), travel (T), and perceived job satisfaction (J).

The third section of the survey included declarations of present total annual income, including retired pay (ANNS), a20-item standardized Minnesota Job Satisfaction Questionnaire (MINN), and a28-question standardized Edwards Personal Preference Achievement Test (EDW). Reliabilities of the MINN and EDW range from .52 to .92.

Demographics of the Survey

The demographics of USMA and USAFA resignees indicate that our sample reflects pretty closely the same percentages of civilian occupations we found in our 1984 and 1985 Checkpoints samples. For instance, we found our expected 20 percent attorneys and 40 percent business and in¬ dustry occupations represented in both samples. However, we found “on-

Table I. Returned, usable surveys (50 possible

Figure 1

Figure 2

ly” about 10 percent attorneys in our USNA resignee sample. (See Figure la, 2a, and 3a). In fact, by occupation, the USNA sample does not generally parallel the USMA and USAFA samples. The USNA resignee group seems to stand in an occupational class of its own.

Comparing the demographics of retirees, we noted an overall increase of retirees into the business and industry sector and amove away from the professions of law, health care, and teaching. Generally, there is still a strong trend for the USMA retiree to become self-employed. Concurrent¬ ly, about 10 percent of our USNA retirees were unemployed. (See Figures lb, 2b, and 3b.)

No Differences Between Retirees and Resignees

Our original prediction was dead wrong. Comparing the analysis of the scaled attitude questions of the various milestones and decisions of academy graduates, we found only some rather sparse and weak correla¬ tions which would allow us to distinguish between retirees and resignees. For example, USAFA resignees were abit more disenchanted by family separations and travel than retirees, and USNA retirees’ family concerns seemed to predict job satisfaction more so than annual income. However, overall comparisons of these scaled items were unable to distinguish a retiree from aresignee. In summary, we found nothing in early career at¬ titudes worth writing home about.

But, the plot begins to take acurious twist when the retirees and resignees are combined rather than separated. There were no distinguishing differences between retirees and resignees in performances measures of annual income (ANNS), achievement (EDW), and job satisfaction (MINN). Considering that retirees’ annual income contains anywhere from $15,000 to $30,000 guaranteed annual military retirement pay, it is uncanny that both groups should have settled on nearly identical (1986) annual incomes. The mean annual income for retirees was $68,333 versus $69,583 for resignees. Similarly MINN scores for Job Satisfaction were 75.80 (S.D.11.05) for retirees v. 78.70 (S.D.11.77) for resignees. (This compares favorably with amean of 77.8 for asample of 387 engineers.) The mean EDW Achievement score was 20.2 for resignees v. 19.6 for retirees; the EDW nationwide mean score for 4,031 men was 14.79. Therefore, both annual income and achievement scores for all academy graduates are well above national norms.

But, Big Differences Between Academies

The most striking (and unexpected) findings occur when the incomes and scores of graduates are separated by academy (USMA, USNA, USAFA) rather than by retired versus resigned status. There were statistically significant differences between academies, but not between retired/resigned status. On all three variables (ANN$, EDW, MINN), USMA graduates scored highest, USNA scored lowest, and USAFA graduates scored somewhere between. USNA retirees show significantly lowest income levels with amean annual income of merely $57,667. The mean civilian incomes of USNA ($65,083) graduates, while significantly below those of USMA ($79,667) and USAFA ($70,333) are by no means scraping the U.S. Department of Labor poverty levels. Hence, you should probably not feel overly sorry for USNA graduates.

Why Do West Pointers Do It Better?

If annual income, sense of achievement, and job satisfaction are to be taken as the bottom line measure of civilian success, then West Pointers did, indeed, take home all the prizes in this study. Our conclusion is that, while USAFA and USNA graduates make good civilians, USMA turns out great ones.

Analysis of the USMA data seems to offer the most straightforward in¬ terpretation of our results. For example, concerns over present income.

promotions, and job benefits over promotions best predicts the achieve¬ ment scores. Contrariwise, USNA results run counter to commonsense predictions. For instance, why should concerns over annual income and present salary predict achievement scores, especially when these variables are believed to be unrelated to each other? Clearly, the data sample from USNA appears to be afunny duck.

Funny, that is, unless we are willing to accept another explanation that there are significant differences between the overall training and educa¬ tion programs of the three academies, differences which may or may not facilitate entry into the civilian job market.

Good research always generates more questions than it answers, and so the search goes one. We can only speculate as to why we found such significant differences between academies —so we will. Contrary to the conventional wisdom that ahighly specialized, technical education and career field leads to easier civilian employability, we propose that the more generalized USMA education predicts higher civilian income, responsibility, achievement, and overall job satisfaction. Aspecialized, technical education is always nice to have and has an immediate cash value to the civilian labor market. Engineers and airline pilots currently have no problems finding jobs —as long as they are willing to work for someone else. However, in the long run the executive managers, the en¬ trepreneurs, the professionals, and the achievers make the big decisions and command the big paychecks, not the technicians. USMA graduates seem to have asignificant head start in the desire to achieve, and this quality is prized in both the civilian and military world. USAFA and USNA graduates seem to have made good adjustments to civilian life, but USMA graduates have made exceptional adjustments.

Mean annual incomes, achievement scores, and job satisfaction scores of service academy graduates plotted by both retired/resigned status and academy attended.

THE AUTHORS

Richard (“Buck") Coffman taught for USAFA’s Department of Life and Behavioral Sciences from 1972 to 1976 and subsequently received his Ph.D. in educational psychology from the University of South Carolina in 1987, where he remains as an adjunct professor, prefessional an¬ thropologist, Civil War scholar, and amateur UFOlogist. Buck retired from the Air Force in 1982 and lives with his wife and family in Colum¬ bia, S.C.

Lt. Col. Frederick V. Malmstrom, ’64 (USAFR)

This past year Fred was visiting assistant professor of psychology at the University of Dayton. While most of his serious research has been in physiological optics, he also dabbles in UFOlogy and officer retention. Still hanging in there for more retirement points, Fred is assigned as a Reserve Assistance Program officer at the Great Lakes Region Head¬ quarters, Civil Air Patrol, Wright-Patterson AFB, Ohio.

Malmstrom Coffman

Richard M. Coffman

Figure 3

Many Benefit From Air Force Academy Research

Research at the Air Force Academy has avery special function. We are not agraduate-degree-granting institution where the em¬ phasis is on faculty research. Our mission, as our graduates know, is “To provide instruction and experience to all cadets so that they graduate with the knowledge and character essential to leadership and the motivation to become career officers in the United States Air Force.” This mission statement requires that our research have avery specific character.

Primarily, our research program provides our cadets an oppor¬ tunity to apply their classroom knowledge to real Air Force prob¬ lems. During the academic year, cadets do independent research projects, often working with faculty officers who are conducting DoD-supported research. In addition, about 150 cadets will take advantage of our six-week cadet summer research program. Cadet summer research is an important program because this is often the first time acadet interacts professionally with an Air Force com¬ mand. In this program, acadet goes to amajor command, a laboratory or other government agency during his senior summer and works on aproblem suggested by the sponsoring agency. There is acompetitive selection for this program so only our best cadets participate.

Our research also supports the basic research needs of Depart¬ ment of Defense and Air Force commands, agencies, laboratories and programs. The Army, the Defense Intelligence Agency, Tac¬ tical Air Command and the Air Force Weapons Laboratory, to name just afew, all tap the intellectual strength of the Air Force Academy to solve their operational problems. During Fiscal Year 1988 these organizations provided about $1 million to the Academy for travel, equipment and supplies so the significant ex¬ pertise of the Academy faculty could be brought to bear on solv¬ ing Air Force problems. These organizations get alot for their money. Since the Academy does not charge for salaries, overhead or profits, it can often complete atask at less than 10 percent of a civilian contractor’s price.

Finally, our research program adds to the professional develop¬ ment of our faculty. Our officers are exposed to Air Force organizations and deal with problems that they normally would not be exposed to either at the Academy or at their parent com¬ mand. During the 1988 fiscal year more than half of our faculty officers participated in some form of research. Their efforts

Maj. Steve Lamberson explains aspace truss experiment in the engineering mechanics laboratory to cadets. This research in the lab will lead to the control of unwanted vibrations in future space stations. (Photo by Darrell Wagner) resulted in over 100 articles published in technical journals, over 280 presentations at national and international conferences and seven published books.

The officers and cadets at the Air Force Academy are ana¬ tional resource. We provide abroad spectrum of expertise in sup¬ port of basic and applied research and in the application of ex¬ isting knowledge to new problems. We are extremely proud of the work done at the Academy. We have many of the best scholars and teachers in the Air Force, united by the goal of educating and molding the minds and character of bright men and women as they prepare to become career Air Force officers. The immediate goal of our research is to support excellence in the classroom; however, the far-reaching benefits of these efforts extend far beyond the boundaries of the Air Force Academy to the opera¬ tional commands of the U.S. Air Force and other DoD agencies.

Visiting Professor Program Expanded

Beginning with the Fall 1989 Semester, the Academy’s very suc¬ cessful Visiting Professor (VP) Program will expand from ayearly average of six to agoal of 19 professors ayear. The expanded VP program substantially replaces military faculty slots lost to man¬ power cuts over the last two years. This will now allow every department the opportunity to hire, for ayear at atime, distinguished members of the civilian academic community.

These eminent educators have enriched the Academy academic experience. An additional benefit has been that they have taken back to their permanent positions abroadened awareness of the Air Force Academy environment. And in the process these pro¬ fessors have enhanced their own professional development.

The visiting professors are entrusted to provide advice and guidance, based upon their years of experience as educators, to their respective departments. In their educational roles, they assist in developing and conducting courses in their specific areas of ex¬ pertise and in developing and directing cadet independent study projects. They also perform independent studies of the educa¬ tional value of cadet research efforts and review the contents of departmental courses in their specialty areas and recommend revi¬ sions, if appropriate.

The professors serve as consultants to faculty members and cadets who are engaged in faculty-sponsored research, contribute to research on current Air Force problems, and conduct original research on matters of mutual interest to both the VP and the Air Force, leading to possible publications in professional journals.

Additionally they serve as technical advisors to the heads of the departments concerning curriculum development as well as par¬ ticipating on faculty committees, and they develop and conduct seminars and colloquiums for faculty members.

Students in an engineering class explain the design and function of ahigh-speed watercraft to Dean Brig. Gen. Erlind Royer. The design incorporated abicycle frame attached to pontoons. The pedals power apropeller which could raise the craft off the pon¬ toons and into ahydroplane position. (Photo by Bill Madsen)

Academy Inaugurates Graduate School Program

The Academy’s new Graduate School Program (GSP) is de¬ signed to offer immediate graduate education to 50 Academy graduates yearly. It will augment the Academy’s Prestigious Scholarship and Blue Chip Programs. Under the scholarship pro¬ gram, top students compete for prestigious scholarships such as the Rhodes, Guggenheim, Marshall, and Kennedy. We produce approximately 25 scholarship recipients yearly. Under the Blue Chip Program, the top 15 percent of each class receive aletter which promises them preference in selection for later graduate education through the Air Force Institute of Technology pro¬ grams, depending upon the needs of the Air Force. The GSP will supplement these two programs.

Under the GSP, aportion of the top 15 percent of each junior class will be identified as GSP candidates. Each of the majors at the Academy will select one or more of their top graduates for GSP participation. GSP participants will complete a12-month graduate school program leading to amaster’s degree. Rated qualified officers will then proceed to pilot or navigator training with support officers receiving an assignment consistent with their education.

The GSP will benefit the Academy in several ways. It will pro¬ vide apool of officers with the appropriate degrees for future faculty duty. It will provide an incentive to our top cadets for even higher performance. And the GSP will go along way toward alleviating our problem of maintaining apresence of rated of¬ fi cers on the faculty.

Today, when we recruit rated of fi cers without advanced

degrees, we must send them to graduate school before coming to the Academy to teach. This 18-month program, combined with a three- to four-year Academy assignment, takes them out of their primary cockpit duties for four-and-one-half to five-and-one-half years; alength of time which is often unacceptable to the rated management objectives of the Air Force. With the GSP pool, we can draw upon graduates with appropriate degrees, have them assigned to us for three to four years, and return them to their primary weapon system in much less time.

We received approval to proceed with the GSP from the Air Force Chief of Staff, General Welch, last June and will imple¬ ment this program with 21 participants for the classes of 1990, 1991, and 1992. This will allow one graduate school participant from each of the disciplinary majors. The program will expand to 30 participants for the classes of 1993 and 1994 and will be fully operational with 50 participants for the classes of 1995 and beyond.

As of January 1989, the academic departments have contacted over 50 universities as potential participants in the GSP. Typical¬ ly, the departments have each focused on two-to-four universities with whom to pursue final agreements. In many cases, aone-year master’s program is the standard. In others, the departments and the potential graduate schools are working out arrangements which may involve our teaching agraduate-level course at the Academy to be accepted by the university. We are currently finalizing plans with top-quality state universities as well as several private universities.

Academy Faculty Sponsors Technology Fair

Brig. Gen. Erlind Royer, dean of the Faculty, hosted several distinguished educators from Colorado universities and colleges as well as faculty and staff from West Point and Annapolis at a faculty-wide Technology Fair on Jan. 31, 1989. This was the first time that the faculty had taken the opportunity to display ex¬ amples of the many innovative uses that they make of the technologies available to them. Their fellow faculty members, the visitors, and the cadets gained much from the demonstrations.

Virtually every faculty department and staff agency as well as the Commandant’s Military Studies Division participated in the day-long fair. Many of the displays centered around the use of the Zenith Z-248 microcomputer in both the classroom and in the cadet’s dormitory room. USAFA-developed software for use in disciplines such as chemistry, law, history, math, and physics was

demonstrated along with commercially-available packages for economics, geography, electrical engineering, mechanical engineering, English, management, and behavioral science.

Innovative use of other technologies such as large-screen displays combined with microscopes in biology, computer-aided design software and large plotters in civil engineering and graphics displays in computer science gave the attendees alook at our uses of more sophisticated equipment. In the Language Learning Center attendees saw the benefits of using interactive video disk systems for foreign language instruction.

Supporting the faculty in the development and operation of the new technologies are three staff agencies: Academic Computing Services, the Educational Technology Center, and the AudioVisual Directorate. These organizations operate and maintain the super minicomputers and the Falconnet local area network, pro¬ vide technical support to all faculty members, and assist in pro¬ duction of video and software programming.

The Academy has made significant strides over the last five years in integrating technology into the classroom. Starting with a handful of microcomputers and terminals, the faculty has under¬ taken the challenge to improve the quality of our graduates through innovative uses of technology. The Microcomputers in the Dormitories (MID) Project provided much of the impetus through implementation of alarge local area network which, with the nearly universal availability of microcomputers to faculty and cadets, makes communications amuch easier task. All cadets, faculty and staff are connected via the Falconnet. In addition, all cadets can receive television via Falconnet also.

The resources available to the cadets are unparalleled in terms of accessibility, variety, and quality. Whether they are conducting acomplex experiment controlled by amicrocomputer, using a software package to review alesson, watching live video coverage of an event of national significance in their dormitory room, or discussing an issue with aclassmate or instruction via electronic mail, the cadets have ready access to the technology which can help them to be more successful in their studies.

Capt. Mike Cegelsky, assistant professor of Russian, inserts an interactive videodisc for CIC Carol Stuart. The Language Learn¬ ing Center was one of the highlights of the Technology Fair. (Photo by MSgt. Dennis Ingmire)

Assembly Discusses NATO at 40 Years

Retired U.S. Army Gen. Alexander Haig, former secretary of state and Supreme Allied Commander Europe, and Francois Heisbourg, director of the International Institute for Strategic Studies in London, headed the list of distinguished speakers at the 31st U.S. Air Force Academy Assembly in mid-March.

This year’s assembly addressed the subject, “NATO at 40 Years: ACritical Assessment.” General Haig gave the keynote address in Arnold Hall. Heisbourg spoke at abanquet in the Antlers Hotel.

The influence of Mikhail Gorbachev and glasnost on Western Europe, and proposed restructuring of the North Atlantic Treaty Organization were the main topics of General Haig’s speech.

The economic problems of the Warsaw Pact nations in the late 1970s forced the Soviets to make changes, said General Haig.

“Only the self interests of the Soviet Union would have allowed Mr. Gorbachev do this (glasnost),” General Haig said of the changes in the Soviet Union. “He had to make changes. If he didn’t, they would have found someone else to do it.”

Lawyer Directory Published

ADirectory of Lawyers Graduating from U.S. Service Academies has recently been published through the efforts of Alfred M. Wurglitz, ’70, and others. The book identi fi es graduates of the Air Force, Coast Guard, Merchant Marine, Military and Naval Academies who practice law. The idea for the book came from Chuck Reed, ’70, who was searching for Academy graduates when he needed to refer his clients to lawyers. The book includes astate-by-state listing, an alphabetical listing, often-used abbreviations, and other helpful items. Copies of the book may be ordered from Washington Publishing Group, Inc., 14409 Rich Branch Drive, Gaithersburg, Md. 20878. The book costs $22 with $3 for shipping for atotal of $25.

Gen. Harmon Information Sought

Iam collecting stories and anecdotes, particularly from the Academy’s activation date, Aug. 14, 1954, until General Harmon’s retirement in July, 1956, for abiography of USAFA’s fi rst superintendent, Lt. Gen. Hubert R. Har¬ mon. The biography will be written by Dr. Edgar (Beau) Puryear. If you have any information which will help in this effort, please contact Eula Hoff, 3190 S. Monroe St., Denver, Colo. 80210. Phone (303) 757-3600.

These changes in the Soviet Union have made amajor impact in Western Europe, according to the former secretary of state.

“In downtown Frankfurt or Bonn, Mr. Gorbachev is more popular than the American president,” General Haig said.

Glasnost, according to the general, has changed public opinion among the NATO nations toward the Soviet Union.

“We in the West better stay strong and keep our guard up, and we better be careful,” the general warned. “They want to negotiate, but you cannot negotiate with asevere inferiority.”

General Haig stressed the importance of NATO to the free world.

“Foremost is the need of an allegiance,” he said. “If NATO was important in 1950, then NATO is critical in 1989.”

Each year, undergraduate students from more than 100 colleges and universities from Canada and the United States are invited to attend this student conference. Students from Western Europe will also attend this year’s conference.

In addition, prominent educators, businessmen and govern¬ ment officials are invited to serve as speakers and round-table moderators.

Assembly participants produce afinal report reflecting their consensus on the principal issues associated with the topic. The final report, along with the recorded remarks of the assembly speakers, is published and distributed throughout the country.

The assembly is sponsored by the Falcon Foundation, Associa¬ tion of Graduates, American Assembly, U.S. Information Service and the Atlantic Council of the United States. (The Falcon Flyer)

Superintendent Wed

Superintendent Lt. Gen. Charles R. Hamm and Sandra D. Hughes, former director of advertising and public relations for the Broadmoor Hotel, were married May 6at 10 a.m. in the Cadet Chapel.

Mrs. Hamm, anative of Illinois, is abusiness administration graduate of the University of Wisconsin’s Madison Business School, and had been in her position at the Broadmoor Hotel for the past four years.

General Hamm has been the superintendent of the academy since June 1987 and is the father of Charles Jr. and Rebecca. Mrs. Hamm is the mother of Russell D. Beer, ajunior at the University of Arizona. Prior to her employment by the Broadmoor, Mrs. Hamm was executive vice president of the Colorado Apartment Association, Colorado Springs Chapter. She was employed by a Chicago advertising agency before moving to Colorado Springs.

Classmate Pins Classmate Academy Chief of Staff, Col. Rip Blaisdell, ’62, at left, pins eagles on Reserve Col. K. B. Clark, also Class of 1962, in mid March of this year. Colonel Clark is the Colorado State Preparedness Liaison Officer. At right is Academy Deputy Chief of Staff for Personnel, Col. J. W. Westerbeck.

Lt. Gen. and Mrs. Charles R. Hamm (Photo by SSgt. Renee Tyron)

GRAD PARTY WEEKEND -AIR FORCE FOOTBALL

What ACombination

Invites all AFA Grads-family-friends to Dallas/Ft. Worth for the: AIR FORCE vs TCU

\The North Texas

All Day:

6-12 pm:

Dinner:

Breakfast

10:30 am

12:30 pm

2:00 pm

5:00 pm

6:00 pm

Breakfast:

Depart:

TOTAL COST:

Includes:

Additional Poop:

OCTOBER 20-21-22, 1989

Fun-Filled Falcon Football Fiesta k

YOU JUST GET HERE -WE’LL TAKE IT FROM THERE 99

AGENDA

Friday -Oct 20

Arrival in D/FW —Stay at Six Flags Rodeway Inn (walking distance to Six Flags Amusement Park —great family fun). If you’re flying in, let us know when and a“NTAAFAG” member will meet your plane and provide transportation to/from hotel.

Hospitality Suite sponsored by “NTAAFAG

You’re on your own!

You’re on your own again!

Saturday —Oct 21

Pre-Game Pep Rally and BBQ at Hotel. (Pay for your weekend —win one of the football pools!)

Buses to TCU Stadium

KICKOFF -AFA vs TCU

Buses return to hotel immediately after game —Be on one!

Post Game Party —Tex/Mex Fiesta —Music, Dancing. (You’ve heard about our reputation and it’s true. ..We’ve never lost aparty!)

Late Sat pm or Sun am: Party may end?

Sunday —Oct 22

You’re on your own one more time —What Responsibility! Transport to airport or depart at your leisure.

$100 per person —double occupancy.

2nights hotel —Pre-game BBQ Party —Buses to/from Stadium —Post-game Tex/Mex Fiesta/Dance —Game Tickets —Friday Night Hospitality Suite —Transportation to/from Airport.

Cash Bar at Parties —Nursery service available at hotel during game and fiesta by prearrangement. Prices adjusted for singles, children attending, hotel not required, etc. We’re easy to work with. Call or write with questions: Bill Reemtsma (’63) -3226 Leahy Dr., Dallas, TX 75229, Phone: (214) 357-5502.

To ensure your reservation, return this form to Bill Reemtsma, 3226 Leahy Dr., Dallas, TX 75229 with your check for $100 per person payable to “NTAAFAG” prior to Sept. 1, 1989.

Names Attending:

Address:

Phone: Class of:

Amount Enclosed:

FALCON SPORTS

Cagers Finish Best Season in 10 iears

The 1988-89 Air Force Academy basketball season was Reggie Minton’s most successful as ahead coach and the Falcons’ best campaign in 10 years. Air Force finished the season with a14-14 record, its first nonlosing record since 1977-78, and asixth-place 6-10 finish in the Western Athletic Conference, its best mark ever in conference play.

Although picked by just about everybody to finish at the bot¬ tom of the conference. Air Force pulled off many surprises, in¬ cluding five consecutive WAC wins. Most impressive about the five-game streak were three consecutive road victories against Wyoming, Brigham Young and Utah. Air Force had never won more than two conference road games in aseason, let alone in a row. Further, the Falcons had won only five of 64 WAC road games since entering the conference in 1980.

Coach Minton

Throughout the year, the Falcons’ big gun was Raymond Dudley. The leading scorer in the WAC and sixth-leading scorer in the nation, Dudley averaged 26.6 points per game. He broke the school’s 32-year-old single-season scoring record with 746 points, the single-season scoring-average record and the career scoring mark with 1,558 points. (The previous single-season scor¬ ing record of 555 was set by Bob Beckel, ’59, in 1957.) The junior guard from Warner Robins, Ga., was named to the All-WAC first team and also selected to the U.S. Basketball Writers Association District 7and National Association of Basketball Coaches District 13 teams. He also was an honorable mention All-America selection by The Sporting News.

Not only did Dudley lead the Falcons in scoring and score in double figures in every game this season, he failed to hit 20 points in just three contests. He was named Sports Illustrated player of the week once and WAC player of the week two other times. In addition to winning some important conference games, Dudley and his teammates came close to victory on anumber of other oc¬ casions. In the conference opener in Honolulu, Air Force lost in double overtime, 83-81, to Hawaii. Two days later in San Diego, the Aztecs hit athree-pointer with less than aminute remaining to beat the Falcons, 64-61.

In an overtime thriller at home against Brigham Young, a Cougar free throw with three seconds left in the overtime period downed the Falcons, 89-88. Air Force’s first two wins also were nailbiters. Jeff Bowling, who set the Air Force single-season steal record, canned athree-point shot with two seconds to play to give Air Force a58-55 victory over Wyoming, their first victory in Laramie in four years. In Provo, Mark Slimko tipped in amissed

free throw attempt as time expired to defeat Brigham Young, 79-78.

Coach Minton earned Kodak District 13 Division Icoach of the year honors. He was also picked as the best coach in the Western Athletic and Big Sky conferences. Since taking over as Air Force head coach in 1984, he has compiled an overall record of 55-83.

Woman Diver Becomes National Champion

The Air Force Academy produced one national diving cham¬ pion and two other All-Americans at the NCAA Division 11 Women’s Swimming and Diving Championships in Buffalo, N.Y., in March.

Sophomore Dawn Dishner of Flint, Mich., won the 3-meter diving title after placing third in the 1-meter competition. Last year, she placed in the top six in each event to also gain AllAmerica recognition.

Two More All Americans

Senior Pam Klein of Prior Lake, Minn., won All-America honors by placing fourth on the 3-meter board and fellow senior Mary Rainaldi of Minnetonka, Minn., achieved All-America honors by placing sixth in the 1-meter event. Klein also earned points for Air Force by finishing ninth in the 1-meter competi¬ tion.

“Our divers lived up to the challenge and missed very few dives,” said Col. Micki King Hogue, Air Force head diving coach. “Dawn and Pam both came from behind to achieve their honors. It was avery dramatic event.”

Hogue, agold medal diving winner at the 1972 Olympics, was selected NCAA Division II diving coach of the year for the third consecutive year. “Having our divers perform so well and being honored by my peers was amoving climax to my coaching career,” said Hogue, who will leave the Academy this summer to command an Air Force ROTC detachment at the University of Kentucky. “This was special to me.”

Despite not having any swimmers at the championships. Air Force accumulated enough points from the three divers to place twelfth in team competition. This is the second straight year Air Force has produced anational diving champion. Last year, Kim Dornburg won both the 1-meter and 3-meter events.

C2C Dudley

C3C Dishner

Academy Hosts Expanded Sports Camps

Graduates wishing to send their son or daughter to aweeklong summer sports camp this year can choose from the most com¬ prehensive program ever offered by the Air Force Academy. Boys and girls ages 9through 17 can select from 12 different sports to improve their athletic skills. They will be instructed by academy intercollegiate coaches while living in Vandenberg Hall and eating in Mitchell Hall.

“This is not only an excellent opportunity for students to receive outstanding instruction in asport of their choosing,” said Lt. Col. Kim Blocher, program director for the athletic depart¬ ment. “Parents also can expose their sons and daughters to the same athletic facilities they used as cadets, regardless of whether they may want to attend the academy.”

Every camp will be directed by the corresponding Air Force head coach, such as men’s basketball’s Reggie Minton, soccer’s Lou Sagastume, swimming’s Casey Converse, lacrosse’s Scott Petosa and wrestling’s Wayne Baughman. Last year, Minton coached the Falcon basketball team to its best record in more than 10 years. Sagastume, Converse and Petosa were collegiate AllAmericans while Baughman is afour-time Olympian.

Other sports and their coaches are baseball (Paul Mainieri), girl’s basketball (Marti Gasser), golf (Gene Miranda), boy’s gym¬ nastics (Lou Burkel), girl’s gymnastics (Cheryl Botzong), ice hockey (Chuck Delich), racquetball (Ed Weichers), tennis (Rich Gugat) and volleyball (Bill Peer).

Camps will be conducted June 11-16 and June 18-23, although not all camps are offered both weeks. The lower age limit for campers differs for each sport, so interested people should con¬ tact the Air Force Academy Athletic Ticket Of fi ce at 1-800-666-USAF for more information and afree brochure.

“Parents should contact us as soon as possible because camps will be fi lled on a fi rst-come, fi rst-served basis,” Blocher noted. “The camps are open to all students, not just from military families.”

The cost for almost every camp is $120 for commuters and $250 for residents, who will be housed in the cadet dormitory (Vandenberg Hall) and fed at the cadet dining hall (Mitchell Hall). Lunch also is provided to commuter campers. Supervised recreational activities, such as swimming, hiking, tours and a dance, also will be provided to resident campers.

The soccer and golf camps have ahigher cost, $160/5275 and $160/5325, respectively.

All participants will be divided into groups based on age, size, experience and ability. All counselors are academy graduates.

Rifle Team Nets

Two All-A mericans

The Air Force Academy rifle team completed an extremely suc¬ cessful season by finishing fourth in the nation and producing two All-Americans at the NCAA Rifle Championships in Murray, Ky. in late March. Junior Trace Weisenburger of Missoula, Mont., placed fifth in smallbore rifle (.22 caliber) to earn All-America recognition for the second consecutive year. Last year, he gained All-America honors in both smallbore and air ri fl e.

C2C Weisenburger

Jim Meger of Lancaster, N.Y., placed 13th in air rifle to become the fi rst Air Force freshman to win All-America honors in rifle. In high school, he was the New York state air rifle cham¬ pion for four years.

Air Force coach Capt. Jeff Jones’ squad also achieved much during the regular season. The Falcons defeated both Army and Navy in road matches. They also defeated Murray State Universi¬ ty, the number one team in the nation in 1987 and number two team in 1988, twice. Additionally, they broke all school individual and team seoring records and set national records in three categories at the Olympic Training Center.

“Trace Weisenburger has an excellent shot at being anational champion next year,” said Jones. “Last summer, he was only a few points away from aqualifying score for the Olympics. Soon, he’ll be at the top of his sport internationally. Jim Meger has the ability to pour it on when it counts. He is aforce to contend with at the national level.” But Jones, who calls this the best season in Air Force Academy history, said this year’s accomplishments were ateam effort.

“In addition to Trace and Jim, senior Brian Bythrow should get the lion’s share of the credit for the team’s success,” noted Jones. He pulled the team together and made the training schedule work.”

1989 Tentative Football Schedule

Boxers Win Second Straight National Title

The Air Force Academy boxing team won its second consecutive national collegiate boxing title in early April at the Cadet Field House. Air Force, with three individual national champions, won the team title for the eighth time in 10 years. The Falcons finished with 33 points followed by Army and Lock Haven with 27 points each. Navy finished fourth with 20 points.

Individual champions for Air Force were senior Dave Kohut of Youngstown, Ohio, at 139 pounds; junior Vince Becklund of Palm Harbor, Fla., at 180 pounds; and senior Tony Barr of Phoenix, Ariz., at 190 pounds. Becklund and Barr were defend¬ ing national champions. Kohut had been named the outstanding boxer at the Midwest Regional tournament in Cincinnati aweek earlier.

Barr defeated his opponent from Navy when the referee stopped the fight at 23 seconds of the second round. Becklund won adecision over an opponent from Navy while Kohut decisioned aboxer from Army.

Winning silver medals for eoach Ed Weichers’ team were seniors Kevin King of Greensboro, N.C., at 147 pounds; Tim Hogan of Plattsburgh, N.Y., at 165 pounds; and Bryan Zawikowski of Cudahy, Wis., at heavyweight. King lost to abox¬ er from Army; Hogan lost to aboxer from Lock Haven; Zawikowski lost to aboxer from Navy. All were by deeisions.

Also competing in the championships for Air Force were freshman Fred Taylor of Colorado Springs at 112 pounds; junior

Hockey Team Finishes With 14-12-3 Record

The Air Force hockey team posted its fourth consecutive win¬ ning campaign under head eoach Maj. Chuck Delich with a 14-12-3 record. The winning season marks the first time that the program has put together four straight seasons above .500.

The Falcons were paced all season by the senior tandem of Joe Doyle and Joe Delich.

Doyle led the team in scoring with 24 goals and 24 assists. He had his consecutive scoring streak stopped at 15 games. During this run, the Weymouth, Mass., native seored agoal in 13 of those 15 games. He had atotal of 17 goals and 15 assists over the 15-game stretch. Doyle’s total goal count was the highest over the past three seasons.

Delich, who played on the United States’ World University Games hockey team, led the team in assists with 31 and was sec¬ ond in total points with 44. His 31 assists were the highest amount accumulated by an Air Force player in eight seasons.

Delich and Doyle rank 14th and 17th, respectively, on Air Force’s all-time scoring list. Delich, who played in 113 games, finished his eareer with 130 total points (47-83) which ranks him 14th while Doyle appeared in 110 games and scored 126 career points (57-69) and ranks 17th.

Joining Delich and Doyle in rounding out their Air Force careers were seniors John Anzelc, Jeff Banks, Greg Gutterman, Jim Jirele, Kevin McManaman and Mike Travalent.

Anzelc became only the ninth player in Falcon history to play in 114 games or more in aeareer. He capped his tenure with the best season of his career by scoring career-highs in goals (11) and assists (17).

Banks also had the best season of his career by establishing a personal high nine goals. Gutterman came away with his highest assist total of 18.

Jirele finished second on the team in goals by scoring acareerhigh 19. His total points (32) were also apersonal best. McManaman played in 104 games during his career and finished by topping his season-best in assists with 19.

Pauli Burnett of Alexandria, Va., at 119 pounds; senior Craig DeBoni of Hedgesville, W. Va., at 125 pounds; senior K.C. Jones of Detroit at 156 pounds; and junior Clint Sigg of Longmont, Colo., at 172 pounds.

All boxers in the championships, who earlier had won regional titles, were awarded All-America honors. Team totals for the championships were as follows: Air Force 33, Army 27, Lock Haven 27, Navy 20, Santa Clara 8, Virginia Military Institute 8, California-Berkeley 3, Nevada-Reno 3and Ohio University 3. Boxers from The Citadel, Penn State, Texas A&M and West Chester also competed in the championships but did not score points for their schools.

Women Runners Win

All-America Honors

Two Air Foree Academy women runners have earned AllAmerica honors for the second time this year. Sophomores Callie Calhoun and Shannen Karpel placed second and fifth, respective¬ ly, in the 3,000-meter run at the NCAA Division II Women’s In¬ door Track Championships in Vermillion, S.D.

In the fall, Calhoun and Karpel had earned All-America status in cross country. Calhoun of Roseburg, Ore., placed 11th and Karpel of Huntington Beach, Calif., placed 20th. The points generated by the two runners enabled Air Force to finish 11th in the indoor track team national championships. Last year, the Falcons placed 10th.

For Karpel, this marked the fourth time she has earned AllAmerica recognition. As afreshman, she also won the national honor in cross country and indoor track.

FIRST COACH HONORED

Robert Spear, the Academy’s first basketball coach, was inducted into the Western Athletic Conference Court of Honors during ceremonies in Salt Lake City in early March. Spear was honored in spite of the fact he left the academy nine years before Air Force joined the WAC in 1980.

Under Spear’s guidance, the Academy’s basketball team earned NCAA Tournament berths in 1960 and 1962 despite admitting only afreshman class in 1955. By the time Spear retired after 15 varsity seasons, his career mark was 177-176.

According to current basketball coach Reggie Minton, “He was the founding father of Air Force Academy basket¬ ball. He took ababy and helped it grow up.’’ Spear’s players had to meet strict standards academically, as well as the 6-foot-4 height limit and be pilot-qualified.

“I don’t think you’ll fi nd a fi ner gentleman that Bob Spear,” said AFA athletic director Col. John Clune, who played at Navy when Spear was an assistant coach there.

C3C Karpel

C3C Calhoun

CHAPTER NEWS

ALAMO CHAPTER

The Alamo Area Chapter of the Association of Graduates held its April 1st Founder’s Day dinner at the Sonterra Country Club in San Antonio.

Lt. Gen. Robert C. Oaks, ’59, was the guest speaker, and his comments on the success of the U.S. foreign policy were well received. Especially enlightening were his personal observations of the Far East taken from two trips abroad spaced 25 years apart.

Pete Hugdahl, ’67, was the able master of ceremonies and was instrumental in getting our guest speaker. (Other chapters might take note of Pete’s tactics: Have the highest-ranking graduate in the area elected president of the chapter —then tell him it’s his duty to give the speech.)

Jim Brown, ’59, was recognized as the oldest graduate present, and Mark White, ’87, was the youngest. The well-attended event also included Jerry Garber’s, ’59, son Dan, ’92 and several appointees for the Class of ’93. (Jess W. Cogley III, ’66)

FRENCH EXCHANGE CHAPTER

Some of the many anniversaries hap¬ pening in France this year are the Bicentennial of the French Revolution and the Declaration of the Rights of Man, the 45th anniversary of D-Day, and the 38th Paris Air Show. Another hallmark, perhaps less well-known but equally as im¬ portant to the French Chapter of the AOG, is the 20th anniversary of the USAF Aeademy/Ecole de I’Air Exchange Program. The French Air Force started off this year’s Exchange with adinner for the USAFA cadets in Paris hosted by the

General Lerche, the French Air Force Chief of Staff. There were numerous French officials and officers for this gala event, which started off our cadets’ visit in France on aparticularly high note.

The 1988 Exchange contingent was a particularly gifted group, as seen by their performance in France and the scholar¬ ships they have been offered upon their return. CIC Nicole Kleinsmith accepted a Harvard scholarship, CIC Stephen Steiner has been selected for graduate studies at MIT in electrical engineering, and CIC Mary O’Connor and CIC Stephanie Perkowski were both chosen for the Gerhart scholarship. Other highlights from this year include: the first female cadet-in-charge, CIC Nicole Kleinsmith; the first contingent with four females; and the first time aUSAFA cadet flew with the Patrouille de France, as CIC Terry Virts flew asortie with the PAF.

The next group of candidates for the 1989 French Exchange Program are presently being evaluated and the selec¬ tion should be released soon after Spring Break. And no, much as Itried, you can¬ not go on the Exchange asecond time! We will, however, be holding areunion in France to coincide with the Paris Air Show during the weekend of June 16-18, 1989. We are expecting agood turnout and afantastic time, so brush up your French, pack your bags, and meet us in Paris!

This fall we may have some further ac¬ tivities in Colorado for those of you who cannot make it to the reunion this summer in France. Tentative plans are for aban¬ quet to welcome the aspirants and acon¬ tingent that will be accompanying them to commemorate the 20th year of the Ex¬ change. We will publicize details through

the “Trait d’Union” with suf fi cient time for you to make preparations. We are still searching for personal anecdotes from dif¬ ferent Exchange groups, not only to bring back fond memories of our time in France but also to help prepare the next year’s group during the summer preparation course, French 492. If you have any amus¬ ing or unusual stories to pass on, please drop us aline or give us acall. We would appreciate it very much.

As we mark the 20th anniversary of the Exchange Program, it is exciting to see the progress we have made throughout the area of Franco-American relations. We have numerous “anciens” in key places where they can directly affect and further relations between the United States and France. But even if you think that you are not in one of these “strategic” positions, just remember that when you extend your hand in friendship to aFrancophone wherever you are, you have contributed just as much to Franco-American ties. I encourage you to continue to maintain the relationships you made in France and to strive to find new opportunities. Ihope to see you in Paris this summer, or to welcome the aspis to Colorado in August! (Major Frank Gahren, HQ USAF Academy/DFF, USAF Academy, CO 80840, AV 259-2298)

NEW YORK CHAPTER

On March 21st, the Greater New York Chapter joined with the Naval Academy Alumni Assoeiation of New York City and with the West Point Society for a luncheon at the famed Union League Club on Park Avenue. The event was originally planned as ajoint appearance of Mayor Koch and John Cardinal

Denny King, ’63, and wife Colleen, dance at the North Texas Chapter’s Founder’s Day celebration.

CIC Terry Virts flies with the Patrouille de France.

O’Connor, former chief of naval chap¬ lains and aretired admiral. The cardinal is the archbishop of New York and is the coauthor with Koch of the new book.

The Mayor and His Eminence.”

However, now that the mayoralty race has begun, the cardinal felt he must decline joint appearances.

Koch is an entertaining and humorous speaker, who is willing to say what he thinks and take the heat from those who disagree. He spoke of the neverending fight being waged by those opposed to making New York City the home port of the battleship Iowa and its support ships. Construction is proceeding ahead of schedule and the Navy has taken over Ft. Wadsworth from the Army.

Mayor Koch asks audiences “How am I doing” and listens to their opinions of him. He said he realized that most of his pro-military audience would not be voting in the Democratic primary, which in New york is usually the election that counts. But he asked how many would vote for him in the general election and expressed gratification at the numbers. As he stated, no other candidate would ask that ques¬ tion with areporter present.

The New York Chapter is still small so to get name speakers we are planning more events with the USNA and USMA graduates. The next social event is a jointly-sponsored golf outing on Long Island on May 19th. Check the next issue for the winner of this Commander’s Trophy. (Ron Wishart, ’64)

NORTH TEXAS CHAPTER

The North Texas Association held their annual business meeting in February and among the beer, chips, and war stories, elected anew board of directors. Presiding at the meeting was the outgoing president, Rick Barton, ’71. Also leaving the board of directors this year are Bob Staib, ’72; Dave Brigman, ’71; and Steve Sacone ’76. Many thanks to you all for your support and participation this past year. Newly elected as the 1989 NTAAFAG president is Lance Ammon, ’70. He brings with him two newly-elected members of our board: Klem Kalberer, ’63; and Steve Pruss, ’76. Glad to have you with us and we look forward to fun things in the year to come.

Lance Ammon has mapped out afew new activities and the continuation of some ongoing activities for the coming year. First, our Founders Day Banquet which was held on April 1st. Agreat time was had by all with dancing to adisc jockey and agreat formal dinner. “For¬ mal” to ex-cadets means anytime all of you show up with atie on. Abeautiful plaque was presented to outgoing presi¬ dent Rick Barton for his super contribu¬ tion to our association. Deserving credit was also given to his lovely wife, Jeri, for her help in makjng 1988 another great year for us all.

Our banquet was followed by our an¬ nual Tri-Service Academy Softball Tour¬ nament which was held on May 7at the

Dallas Naval Air Station. This year’s BiAnnual (I think that means the first of two?) Tri-Service Academy Golf Tourney will be held on May 20th, and the second tourney is scheduled for Sept. 16. We have aTennis Tourney for you tennis fans, that includes wives, aproposed bowling tourney, and afall Bar-B-Q planned.

New to our roster of events this year are casual Happy Hour Get-Togethers each month. Come join us. Also new to this years events is aone-time “Football Ex¬ travaganza” to be held on Oct. 21-22 when Air Force comes to Texas to play TCU. Bill Reemtsma, ’63, is putting this one together and he has been working on it all year. If you are interested in joining us, contact P. “Manny” Cardenas, ’63, at (214) 247-8273, or Lance Ammon at (817) 267-4995. (Ron Hate, ’71)

SAN JACINTO CHAPTER

We down here in the Southeast part of Texas, having enjoyed an unusually mild winter, are preparing to enjoy our usual beautiful spring. The San Jacinto Chapter has just survived its fi rst full year of membership and now has 33 members.

As advertised, the USAFA Parents Club hosted the 1988 Service Academy Military Ball on Dec. 23. Many thanks to Pat Hunt, Tom and Kathy Zyroll, and the

(Continued on next page.)

Members of the North Texas Association of Air Force Academy Graduates (NTAAFAG) gathered on Aprit 1to enjoy their Founder’s Day Banquet. At tower ieft is Mike Gibbons, ’63; Sharon Gibbons, and Renee Rafatko, wife of Ed Rafaiko, USMA ’45 and former Academy Athietic Director. At tower right are the otdest and youngest graduates in attendance. From ieft, Richard Fairiamb, ’61; Anne Weaver-Worster, ’85; and Pete Lane, ’61. Attending but not in the photo was Tom Connelly, ’85. (Photos courtesy Mike Gibbons, ’63)

Newspaper Highlights N. Texas Chapter

By Robert Miller The Dallas Morning News

(Editor's note. The following story appeared in the March 24 issue of the Dallas Morning News. We thank the News and Mr. Miller for allow¬ ing us to reprint the piece here. Reprinted with permission of The Dallas Morning News.)

Some call them nouveaux arrivistes, with little or no respect for their older siblings. (We demur.)

Others say they only respect quality and demand the best in recruiting area high school grads to become future Air Force Officers. (So?)

Obviously, we’re referring to the North Texas Association of Air Force Academy Graduates.

The ones who casually refer to the august U.S. Military Academy above New York’s scenic Hudson River as “Hudson High.”

The same who appear on the softball field, on the golf course, on the tennis court against local U.S. Naval Academy and West Point exes with youth squarely on their side.

So what if some of our Annapolis and West Point exes saw action in the Peloponnesian War. (There’s something to be said for maturity.)

Since the Air Force Academy dates back only to April 1, 1954, you know who’s going to be clear of eye, strong of limb, soaring and predatory like the falcon, the academy mascot.

Bill Reemtsma, AFA ’63, acommercial real estate broker and past president of the North Texas Association of AFA Grads, and Manny Cardenas, ’64, American Airlines captain and another past president, got us started on this inter-service academy rivalry.

We had asked about the Air Force Graduates (10th) Annual Founders Dinner and Dance April 1at the Colony Parke Hotel, 6060 N. Central.

Tickets are $60 per couple and you may call Mr. Reemtsma (social chairman) at 357-5502 or Mr. Cardensas (membership chairman) at 247-8273 for reservations.

Mr. Reemtsma pursued the engineering side of aviation, which may ac¬ count for his vast reservoir of facts and fi gures:

■ The North Texas Association numbers about 170 members out of the 400 grads within 50 to 60 miles of Dallas.

■The academy’s falcon is the only “performing” mascot among the service academies’ mascots.

During halftimes at Air Force football games, acadet spins apiece of meat around and around and the falcon makes five or six diving passes at it. Then the cadet tosses the lure up in the air and falcon snares it on the wing.

Occasionally the falcon flies away never to be seen again. (We recall the Declaration of Independences does speak of the pursuit of happiness.)

“You can’t get a(n) (Army) mule and a(Navy) goat to fly.”

■“West Point represents 150 years of tradition unhampered by pro¬ gress.”

■The North Texas Association recently accepted its first female member, Lt. Anne Worster, ’85, copilot of aKC-135 tanker based at

Chapter News: (Continued)

other members of the Southeast Texas Air Force Academy Parents Association who worked so hard to make the military ball the tremendous success it was. Ihad the privilege, pleasure, and honor of acting as the master of ceremonies. It is not often a trial lawyer has the opportunity to stand up in front of 5(X) captive folks and talk with them, particularly when he has the privilege of introducing aspeaker such as Ron Bliss, Class of ’64.

For those of you who may not be aware, Ron was aThud driver who was shot down over Hanoi on Sept. 4, 1966, after having completed 35 and ahalf com¬ bat missions. He spent the next 2,375 days as aprisoner of war, not being released until March 3, 1973. He is now the head of the intellectual property law section of

Carswell AFB in Fort Worth. (“We’ll have to clean up our act.” Well, we hope so.) The service academies first accepted women July 1, 1976.

■One weekend each fall 50 top-ranked Air Force cadets come to the Dallas area to visit defense establishments and are guests in association members’ homes.

■ Air Force plays Texas Christian University Oct. 21 —TCU’s homecoming —in Fort Worth and plans call for Air Force showtime, in¬ cluding adrop by the Wings of Blue skydiving team on the playing field,

■The association gives great parties.

Association of fi cers are Lance Ammon of Bedford, ’70, real estate broker, president; Dr. John Quincy of Fort Worth, ’70, dentist, vice president; Denny King of Arlington, ’63, American Airlines captain, also vice president; Lee Rausch of Dallas, ’65, investments business after a career in the Air Force, secretary; Joe Kreimborg of Lewisville, ’71, American Airlines captain, treasurer; and Steve Pruss of Dallas, ’76, at¬ torney at Locke Purnell Rain Harrell; and Klem Kalberer of Dallas, American Airlines captain (do all AFA exes become American Airline pilots? —only halO and owner of the Micro Mart computer store, both board members.

Is there no respect for Annapolis and West Point?

Anotable exception is Dallas insurance man Tom McNiel, West Point, ’45, West Point board of trustee member since 1962 -now trustee emeritus who still attends meetings at least three times ayear.

Mr. McNiel, the prime mover in setting up the eminently fair, muchpraised, often-copied system of using aboard of service academy exes (in¬ cluding Annapolis, West Point and Colorado Springs) to aid in nominat ing high school seniors to the service academies —Army, Navy, Air Force, Merchant Marine. (The Coast Guard selects cadets differently.)

Former Congressman Jim Collins used —and current Congressmen Dick Armey and Steve Bartlett still use -Mr. McNiel’s system.

As the West Point trustees’ admissions committee chairman at the time, Mr. McNiel drew up plans for integrating the first women cadets into campus life in 1976. Air Force Academy officials, hearing of his role, sought his advice on welcoming women at Colorado Springs.

In 1979, Mr. McNiel saw the local need for Air Force Academy graduates to get involved in the nomination-of-cadets procedure. He ap¬ proached Jerry Smith, AFA, ’62, aDallas real estate investment banker, and with the aid of others, the North Texas Association of Air Force Academy Graduates was born.

See why Mr. McNiel is alifetime honorary member of the local AFA Grads association? The local AFA Grads even named their president’s cup the McNiel Cup. Mr. McNiel and his wife, Maura, will also attend the April 1Founders Day dinner.

We said AFA grads respect and demand quality -even if it bears the West Point stamp.

Staff columnist Robert Miller writes about people in the business com¬ munity for The Dallas Morning News.

Fulbright &Jaworski. He gave what 1 consider one of the most inspiring and motivational talks I’ve heard from an Academy graduate or anyone else. As far as 1am concerned it ranks right up there with McArthur’s “Duty, Honor and Country.” So if any of you ever have a chance to hear Ron talk, 1heartily urge that you take advantage of it.

We had agood turnout at the ball. In addition it myself, Tom Zyroll, ’68, and his wife Kathy; Rob Mansfield, ’77, and his wife Yum; Gary and Patty Matsen, ’75; Jerry Fee,’67; and Tommy Thomp¬ son, ’70, were there. There may have been others. If so 1apologize for not having had the opportunity to list them, but things were abit hectic.

The San Jacinto Chapter had several get-togethers to watch the USAFA foot-

ball team on the tube, and we are planning atrip to Fort Worth to watch the TCUUSAFA game on Oct. 21. Anyone in¬ terested please call me at 713-464-9445, Rob Mans fi eld at 713-360-2437, or Tom Zyroll at 713-360-6098.

The Chapter will have its annual membership meeting May 12, at the Kingwood Country Club with ashort business meeting and along social hour and dinner. We are also planning agolf tournament and at least one swim party for the coming months. For any of you grads who are in the Southeast Texas area, either just passing through and wanting to visit, or who are living here, haven’t joined and want to join, please give one of us acall so we can sign you up and get you on our mailing list for our newsletter. (Tom Solomon, ’69)

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN w

As aclassmate, Jim Dickson was apersonal and professional friend. As aroommate, Jim was that special person at the Academy who shared your ups and downs, your joys and despairs, your successes and failures. Ispent three years listening to his morning one-note serenades, while he tolerated my lateinto-the-night studying.

It was with great sadness, therefore, that Iand agood number of friends and family bid Jim farewell at amemorial service in Stirling, N.J., on March 18, 1989. He died Monday, March 13, of complications arising from cancer.

Jim was born in Kearny, N.J., where he spent his youth and met his wife-to-be, Jacqueline Stewart. He entered the Academy July 5, 1957, graduating on June 7, 1961. Jim excelled in the sciences, was afierce and competitive player in athletics, and was ahighly-principled cadet. All of these factors influenced him throughout his life. Jim used his navigator rating, earned at the Academy, to fly sensitive nuclear-delivery missions with the 7th Logistics Squadron out of Warner-Robins, Ga.

But Jim’s love of science and what he perceived as alack of op¬ portunity to employ his talents, led to his separation from the Air Force in 1965. He obtained amaster’s and doctorate degree from Rutgers University in material science. He pursued plastics, high value metal recovery, and finally, powdered metal technology. He worked with Harrison Alloy and Allied Chemicals before forming his own company —Dickson Enterprises. He authored several patents in powdered metals and was looking to go into powdered metals production.

Although he left the Air Force early in his career, Jim was a patriot, an outstanding citizen, and awell-respected member of his community. He served on the school board in Stirling, his home of 21 years. He was an active member of the First Presbyterian Church of Stirling as an elder, trustee, Sunday school teacher, and director of the junior and senior high school programs. Jim’s last contribution to his community was acam¬ paign to preserve the voting rights of citizens in amajor school¬ funding issue.

Jim will be missed by his wife, Jackie; his sons, James, Tylor and Stewart; his many friends and relatives; and by the members of the Class of 1961. The family has asked that the class con¬ tribute to the planting of atree on the Academy grounds in his memory. Contributions may be made to The James Dickson Memorial Fund, Association of Graduates, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-5000.

Above all else, Jim Dickson was adreamer. He dreamt of fulfilling the dream of American democracy and community ser¬ vice. He dreamt of areturn of American productivity and of be¬ ing able to make acontribution in apersonal sense. Mark Twain, who was equally adreamer, came into this world and left it under

Michael P. Foster, ’78

Major Michael “Rocky” Foster, Class of 1978, died Dec. 8, 1988 when his A-10 crashed during an exercise in Germany. At the time, Mike was an A-10 pilot assigned to the 92nd TFS, 81st FTW, RAF Bentwaters, United Kingdom.

Iroomed with Mike for much of our last three years at the Academy. We shared in common our roots in Ohio and the ex¬ perience of attending aCatholic high school. Mike graduated sec¬ ond in his class from Chaminade High School, Dayton, Ohio in 1973. From the time Ifirst met Mike Iwas struck by his unwaver¬ ing sense of purpose -he knew so clearly that more than any¬ thing else, he wanted to be an Air Force officer and an Air Force pilot. The standards of integrity that Isaw him live by were the highest of anyone 1have ever known. And he was such ahard¬ working and disciplined guy. He had chosen engineering mechanics and materials as his major. The material was difficult and did not come easy to Mike. But he was not going to be denied this major. His nightly routine was to study past midnight and then get up at 5a.m. the next morning to go at it again. The CFD (Correction For Data) under Mike’s name in the yearbook stands as atestimony to his ultimate victory in his battle with the ‘Dean.’ Mike was amember of the intercollegiate wrestling team and also played intramural rugby and basketball. Mike was arecognized leader in CS-33 (Cellar Rats) and served as our squadron com¬ mander during the period leading up to graduation. Somehow, Mike still made time for skiing, hiking, and most important of all, courting his high school sweetheart, Peggy.

Mike lived the Air Force and he loved being apilot. He poured himself in to each of his assignments. His first assignment after pilot training was to the 15th Tactical Reconnaissance Squadron at Kadena AB, Japan, flying RF-4Cs. Following that assignment, he completed Squadron Officer School in residence at Maxwell AFB, Ala. Next it was off to A-10 upgrade training at DavisMonthan AFB, Ariz. He was assigned to the 91st TFS at RAF Bentwaters from June 1983 to July 1986. In July 1986 he became an Air Force liaison officer with the 2nd Brigade, 3rd Infantry Division, VII Corps, of the U.S. Army in Kitzingen, West Ger¬ many. He completed his master’s degree in systems management from the University of Southern California in 1988. In August 1988 he was assigned to the 92nd TFS.

Mike was truly an extraordinary individual. Our memory of him serves to invigorate our belief in service to country, dedica¬ tion to duty, and high standards of personal integrity.

Michael P. Foster, 78

the aura of Halley’s Comet. The day that Jim died, the aurora borealis reached from the North Pole down into New Jersey. God must have needed another dreamer by his side. (Gene Davis, ’61)

James Dickson, ’61

Michael A. Frederickson, ’84

Mike is survived by his wife, Peggy, and three children, Michael and Christopher, and athird due to have been born the last week of March, 1989. Amemorial fund has been established in Mike’s name to bene fi t his children. Contributions may be made to: Michael P. Foster Memorial Fund, Account #747108277, American Express Bank, Community Banking Facility, APO, New York 09755. (Jeff Melaragno, ’78)

not enforcing policies, rules or the Gurnie C. Gunter, Jr., ’81

Captain (USAF, Ret) Gurnie C. Gunter, Jr. of Colorado Springs died on Dec. 15, 1988 in Kansas City, Mo. after ayear¬ long battle with leukemia. Amember of Cadet Squadron 6, Gur¬ nie was the training officer his senior year and was active in a number of cadet activities including the Cadet Fencing Team, Ski Club, Protestant Choir, Navigation Club and the Cadet Way of Life Committee.

Gurnie was born in Augsburg, West Germany, on June 16, 1958. He entered the Academy Preparatory School in 1976 and subsequently graduated from the Academy in 1981 with a bachelor’s degree in humanities. Following graduation, Gurnie re¬ mained at the Academy to help with minority recruiting as an Academy admissions advisor. During that period, he helped develop the lowest attrition rate of candidates for the Academy Prep School in its 20-year history.

Gurnie went on to Keesler AFB, Miss, for training as a communications-electronics officer and was then assigned to MacDill AFB, Fla. as chief of Maintenance. While there he was selected as Maintenance Officer of the Year two years in arow and was also awarded the Air Force Commendation Medal and the Air Force Achievement Medal.

Gurnie then rotated to Shemya AFB, Alaska, where he was a deputy site chief/telecommunications officer. In that capacity he supervised the integration and testing of an $11 million communi¬ cations upgrade project involving 10 differing groups of con¬ tracts. His efforts earned him aJoint Service Commendation Medal.

In 1986, Gurnie returned to Colorado Springs, this time to serve in Air Force Space Command as aSpace Communications project officer with the Jam Resistant Secure Communications Division. In that same year he took time off to marry Charalotta Motley, of Indianapolis, Ind. He had just received notice of his nomination for promotion to major three years below the zone at the time his illness was discovered.

Gurnie was medically retired from the Air Force in 1988 and received the Air Force Meritorious Service Medal for his seven years of service. He was undergoing treatment in Kansas City at the time of his death. Amemorial service was held for Gurnie in Kansas City on Dec. 20 at the Watkins Brothers Memorial Chapel. Full military honors were rendered by the Whiteman AFB Honor Guard and his cremains were committed to the Paci fi c Ocean.

During his illness, Gurnie wrote aletter to aclose friend ex¬ plaining his feelings. In it he said that there were no tidy answers to life and death, that life-threatening situations shake our belief in immortality making us arbitrarily reach out in many directions

(family, doctors, friends, God), and that you must continue to have hope. He continued, “I remember when many of the every¬ day things centered on the pidilly things of life, like problems at work, school. ..Now Iwonder why Iwasted all that time. ..I know God is with me and that we will all pass from this short life to the eternal one. No one can avoid it. I’m only glad I’m wiser about spending time. ..Itry to feel thankful for being able to ex¬ perience those things. ..Family, friends, people in general are what life is about — bureaucratic system. ..

In addition to his wife, Charalotta, Gurnie is survived by his father, U.S. Army Col. (Ret) Gurnie C. Gunter, Sr.; his mother, Mrs. Margaret Ann Gunter; his brothers Geoffrey and Josef; his grandmother, Mrs. Mildren Brown, and ahost of loving aunts, uncles, cousins and friends.

Gurnie asked me to let everyone know that we should look at the fun times we shared with him and cherish those memories. Life, he said, was too precious for mourning and sadness. So, Gurnie, we remember you, your wit, your smile, and your charis¬ ma. (Capt. Dexter R. Handy, ’81, Friend and Fellow Christian)

Michael A. Frederickson, ’84

Captain Michael A. Frederickson, Class of 1984, died Nov. 15, 1988 when his A-10 crashed near Shaw AFB, S.C. during atrain¬ ing mission. Mike had been stationed at Myrtle Beach, S.C. for three years and had been promoted to the rank of captain earlier in 1988. He was assigned to the 355th Tactical Fighter Squadron, “The Falcons.” Amemorial service was held for Michael at Myrtle Beach on Nov. 18, 1988.

Mike was born May 14, 1961 in Minnesota. The family moved several times during his early years. Residences included Eagle Grove, Iowa; Sterling, 111.; and West Chicago, 111. Back in Min¬ nesota in 1974, Michael entered Cretin Military High School and soon thereafter developed an interest with military life and flying.

In high school Mike’s athletic prowess began to surface. He was awell-rounded athlete and excelled at distance running, ice hockey, and weightlifting. His lifting peaked during his cadet years at the Academy while on the cadet powerlifting team.

One of Michael’s dreams was realized in June 1979 when he took the Oath of Allegiance upon entry to the U.S. Air Force Academy. During the 1981-’82 academic year, Mike was permit¬ ted to take asemester of study at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. While this meant aone-year delay in graduating from the Academy, he had no regrets. Michael loved his experience in Washington and made many new friends.

Mike graduated from the Academy in May 1984. His class received their diplomas from President Reagan. It was an ex¬ tremely proud moment for his family and friends. Oldest brother Trent, aU.S. Army captain and 1977 graduate of the U.S. Military Academy, administered the Oath of Of fi ce to his younger brother. Following his graduation and commissioning, Michael attended pilot training at Williams AFB, Ariz. followed by atour of duty in Tucson, Ariz.

Michael was in the middle of making wedding plans when he died. He had met Capt. Pamela Griffin of Rochester, N.Y. while

Gurnie C. Gunter, Jr., ’81

IJohnnie Joel Graves, ’86

at Myrtle Beach. They were planning awedding in 1989 prior to or sometime shortly after aPCS move to Texas.

Funeral services were held on Nov. 24 at Trinity Lutheran Church in Minneapolis, Minn, with full military honors and burial at Ft. Snelling, Minn. Survivors include parents Richard and Marilyn, brother Trent, brother Dean and his wife, Joani, and their two sons John and Jeffrey. Also youngest brother Robert and his wife Martha, and Mike’s grandmother, Mary Osborne of Madelin, Minn.

Michael had an exuberance for living that is indescribable. All who were fortunate enough to have known him can attest to his loyalty, dedication and love. He was an outstanding young pro¬ fessional officer who served as an endless source of inspiration and pride. Our magnificent memories of Michael will live always in our hearts and minds. (His Family)

Johnnie Joel Graves, ’86

First Lieutenant Johnnie Joel “J.J.” Graves, Class of 1986, departed this life on Nov. 13, 1988 at Comiso, Italy, after being struck by atrain. At the Academy, J.J. was in Cadet Squadron 7.

J.J. was born April 6, 1965 in Little Rock, Ark. He attended Little Rock public schools and was a1982 graduate of Little Rock Central High School. While at Central, he was amember of the National Honor Society, band, atwo-year letterman on the soccer team, aSenior Council representative and aBoy’s State delegate. He attended the Arkansas Governor’s School for the Gifted and Talented and was amember of the Air Force Junior ROTC.

He received the National Achievement Scholarship for Out¬ standing Black Students, the American Legion Color Guard medal, and several first place awards for excellence in Spanish. J.J. was selected as aU.S. Achievement Academy (U.S.A.A.) Nationail Award recipient and is included in U.S.A.A.’s National Awards yearbook, 1982, Vol. 3. He was also an Explorer Scout.

After graduating from the Academy, he trained at DavisMonthan AFB and was assigned to the 487th Tactical Missile Wing as aGround Launched Cruise Missile launch control of¬ ficer. He was then assigned to Comiso, Italy, where he arrived in Nov. 1986. Shortly after completing his initial training there, he became an instructor/evaluator. In this capacity he was always available to help his fellow crew members. His ability to com¬ municate with the Italian people was atalent utilized by the entire base.

At the end of his first tour at Comiso, he was assigned to Woensorchet Air Station in the Netherlands. When this base was closed, he volunteered to return to Comiso for two more years. Working again as an instructor/evaluator, his expertise during this period at computer programming resulted in praise from higher headquarters inspectors. He earned the Air Force Achieve¬ ment Medal for outstanding professionalism at his first tour at Comiso and was posthumously awarded the Meritorious Service Medal for his final year of dedicated service to his country. J.J. was also askilled racquetball player. While at Comiso, he won the base championship and led the squadron intramural team to a first place finish in 1987.

Raymond John Eineigl, Jr., ’90

Described as the epitomy of the professional young Air Force officer, J.J. is greatly missed by his family and his many friends. His loving qualities and personality will be with us always. On Ju¬ ly 7, 1982, as abasic cadet, J.J. wrote the following poem he en¬ titled “AF Academy Life:”

My life is ruled by regulations; Everywhere Ilook Isee stipulations.

I’ve undergone atremendous transformation. From the beginning of my indoctrination. I’m thinking of making adeclaration. Of my desire to acquire emancipation. Every move Imake is in consternation. From my origin to my destination.

I’ve been handed alife of automation. Away from the realm of civilization.

I’ll give the matter much consideration. Along with sleepy deliberation; But if 1may make asolicitation.

What would you do in my situation?

Full military services were held on Nov. 25, 1988 at Bethel African Methodist Episcopal Church in North Little Rock, Ark. He was interred in the National Cemetery in Little Rock. Sur¬ vivors include his parents, Clyde Sr. and Maxine L. Graves; two brothers, Clyde Jr. and Darius L. Graves; and anephew, Joel Leon Graves.

Raymond John Eineigl, Jr., ’90

Cadet Third Class Raymond John (Pete) Eineigl, Jr., was born on Oct. 21, 1968 in Bradenton, Fla., and raised in alarge suppor¬ tive family of three older brothers and two older sisters, plus grandparents and other relatives. Pete’s life was that of atypical military brat, living in many places including Seattle, Germany, West Point and back again to Seattle.

He enjoyed the Northwest with crabbing, fishing and clam dig¬ ging. He fished and hunted with his dad and skied and sledded with his brothers and sisters. He joined in YMCA activities. Cub Scouts and played Little League baseball and football. Helping others was becoming amajor trait of Pete’s early life.

While at West Point, Pete enjoyed small bore rifle shooting and exercising the Army’s mascot mules. He was delighted when cadets stopped by. Upon the family’s return to the Seattle area, Pete became known among awidely diversified peer group as a caring, helpful person. He tried out for football, track and swim¬ ming, and played in the high school band. He concentrated on diving, reaching the state finals for two years. He was also a talented musician, playing any brass instrument the director need¬ ed. He also played hand-bells in the church bell choir and joined in the church’s youth groups, where he helped bring the Christian spirit to many orphans.

When Pete decided to attend the Academy, there ensued two years of dogged pursuit of that goal. He was elected student body vice president of his high school class and he competed for his Academy slot at large, as the son of aservice member. He was overjoyed when he heard of his appointment (he had turned down

an appointment to the Military Academy because he wanted to fly jets).

Pete’s friends at home and at the Academy knew him as agoaloriented person -he was well organized and knew more about where he wanted to go in life. His courage helped him through BCT and even after his enthusiasm for testing the system and himself caused problems with the disciplinary system, his concern for his friends continued. His sponsor in Colorado Springs, MG (Ret) Dwyer, said that of all the cadets they knew or sponsored, they felt Pete would be the one, someday, to win the Medal of Honor.

Pete wanted to leave the Academy after Christmas of his freshman year but agreed to stay the year. With little experience in agame of skill and stamina, he won aspot on the doolie lacrosse team through drive, enthusiasm and tenacity. He served as achapel usher and sang in the Chapel Choir. As asophomore, he played for the JV lacrosse team and made the Dean’s List his fi rst semester.

Letters from friends who Pete helped with their personal prob¬ lems are still arriving at his home. Some excerpts include: “Pete ...always gave graciously and expected nothing in return. When Pete had abad day he still tried to make others smile. He bore his burdens in silence while kindly sharing the burdens of others. In this way Pete was astrong man and agreat friend. ..’’

Pete was an honest, God-loving friend of everyone. Because of his deep Christian faith, he had no fear of death. He died on April 27, 1988 at the Academy, when, highly intoxicated during atem¬ porary down-on-himself period, he took his life in his hands and gave it back to God. Pete is sorely missed by all, young and old, who knew him. We take faith that he is with God, and that we will be with him in God’s grace. God bless him and keep him. (His father}

At presstime we had learned of the deaths of the follow¬ ing graduates:

Dr. John Richard Buscher, Class of 1965, who died on March 28 in Sewickley, Pa.

Dr. Charles Shepard L’Hommedieu, Class of 1967, who died on Jan. 17 in Fort Worth, Texas.

Maj. Clyde Allen Smith, Jr., Class of 1971, who died on April 11, at Woodbridge, Va., of injuries received as a result of an automobile accident.

Capt. (USAF, Ret) George Herman Gordy, Jr., Class of 1979, who died on April 1at Andrews AFB, Wash. D.C., of cancer.

Capt. Curtis Blake lott. Class of 1982, who was killed in aT-38 aircraft accident on April 18 near Roswell, N.M.

Capt. John Frederick Young, Class of 1982, who was killed in aC-141 aircraft accident at the Eglin AFB Reserva¬ tion in Florida on Feb. 20.

Capt. Robert Lowrey Boland, Jr., Class of 1985, who was killed in an F-111 aircraft accident at the Nellis AFB, Nevada range on April 5.

Capt. Daniel Ralph Johnson, Class of 1985, who was killed in an F-16 aircraft accident near Cuenca, Spain, on March 14.

2nd Lt. Thor Ryan Jaques, Class of 1988, who was found dead on Feb. 6near Eglin AFB, Fla.

Cadet Second Class Carlos Omar Parks, Class of 1990, who died in Colorado Springs, Colo, on April 5of injuries sustained in an automobile accident.

Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of these graduates whose obituaries will appear in future issues of the magazine.

Longtime Chorale Director, Roger Boyd, Dies

James Roger Boyd died on March 14, 1989, in Colorado Springs at age 64. He was the organist, choirmaster and director of the cadet chorale program at the Academy Cadet Chapel from 1957 until his retirement in 1984. Mr. Boyd was also amember of the planning committee for the organ in the Cadet Chapel and played for most of the June Week weddings in the Protestant Chapel for many years.

interaction with them while they were cadets. At his retirement ceremony, Mr. Boyd received the Decoration for Exceptional Civilian Service. Lt. Gen. Win fi eld W. Scott, Jr., Academy superintendent at the time, said of Mr. Boyd at his final Chorale Concert on May 28, 1984, “Mr. Boyd is alegend. He has been the Academy’s singular best known ambassador of good will. He has been our best outreach to the nation.”

In addition to his wife, Betty, Mr. Boyd is survived by ason, James Berkley of the Aspen, Colo, area; adaughter, Susan Elizabeth of the Denver area; and asister, Mrs. Everett K. Deane of Long Island, N.Y. Memorial contributions may be made to the James Roger Boyd Memorial Fund in care of the Association of Graduates, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-5000. Mrs. Boyd continues to reside at 2218 Patrician Way, Colorado Springs, Colo. 80909.

TRIBUTE TO AFRIEND

1would like to ask each of my fellow graduates who have not yet contributed to the Air Force Academy Fund to join me in con¬ tributing in memory of some friend from your Academy or service life.

All of us, especially those in the earlier classes, know friends who have died in the service of their country. We are also in our “prime earning years” and in the best financial position to make a contribution.

He was born in Haverstraw, N.Y., was aformer resident of Akron, Ohio, and lived in Colorado Springs since 1957. Mr. Boyd earned his bachelor’s degree from Columbia University, New York City, in 1947 and his master’s degree in sacred music from Union Theological Seminary, New York City, in 1949. He served in the Army Air Corps from 1942 to 1945. He was married in 1948 at Columbia University Chapel to Elizabeth Taylor, who survives. Mr. Boyd founded the cadet music program at the Air Force Academy and guided it for 27 years, touching and influencing the lives of thousands of Air Force Academy graduates through his

My check was sent in memory of James D. Goodman, ’63, who was killed in action on the 9th of January, 1967, shortly before he was to return to the states. What better way to remember him than to make acontribution to aplace that meant so much to him.

So Jim, wherever you are, when you see your name on the list of the donors to the Air Force Academy Fund, you know you are remembered for being agood friend and for the sacrifice you made for your country. It’s the least 1can do, my friend.

Sincerely, John C. Rector, ’63

James Roger Boyd

CLASS NEWS

R.L. Penn

81 Marshall St. Milford, CT 06460

Office: (203) 932-7203

Home: (203) 783-1430

Percent members: 77

(Editor’s note. R.L. sent in aletter saying that with the impending firstever 30th Reunion, he and his classmates were far too involved with re¬ union planning to have any other worthwhile news for this issue. How¬ ever, he expects the summer issue will bring much information on the Academy’s first class.)

Andi Biancur

2Sycamore Lane Littleton, CO 80127 (303) 979-2228

Percent members: 74

Do you remember what you were doing 30 years ago today? Take just a moment and think back to that time —when life was simple and the only words we knew were “Yes Sir,” “No Sir,” and “No Excuse Sir.” We were all looking forward to expediting the ’59ers departure and going about running the Wing the way it should be run. Now that Ipresumably have your thoughts conditioned. I’ll attempt to summarize the responses to our 30-year reunion survey. We sent out some 193 forms to which 81 of you responded. Of those, 78 opted to hold areunion while three said: “Hell no!” Iread that to mean that we proceed with aplan to hold areunion. Twenty-six of you wanted to have aSpring Fling while 49 would rather brave the autumn chill. Only six respondants would not bring aspouse/ guest. Iwon’t bore you with the entire activity breakdown but expect to see some 149 folks in the Colorado Springs area on aweekend to be deter¬ mined in the autumn of 1990. We will have some scheduled activities but for the most part, plenty of unstructured time to renew old memories and retell old war stories. More information will be forthcoming and if you have any further comments please let me know.

Ireceived avery newsy letter from Frank MAYBERRY who detailed his and Eve’s current lifejstyle] in the outback of Australia. It seems his employer, TRW, had need of his talents in Woomera where he has changed the sign on his office door from “Out To Lunch” to “Gone Walk¬ about.” It sounds like Frank and Eve are right in the middle of areal adventure; too lengthy to fully account. Let me give you ataste by quoting aportion of Frank’s letter:

“One day Iwas in Andamooka, an opal mining town. It’s like aplace out of the old West. The main street is adry river bed. The miners work half the day and drink all night. If you ever go to Andamooka, don’t go before 11 in the morning; you won’t see anyone. The streets are deserted until lunchtime approaches. Then you see the red-eyed revelers trekking their way to the local watering holes. By noon, the beer drinking will be in full swing. One of the locals, the Opal Hotel, commonly referred to as the pub, puts on avideo around 12:30 p.m., and packs them in. The other place is the Tuckabox. There is no menu, so Iasked the waitress, an Amazon of agal, what there was. She told me I’d have the Tuckabox Sandwich. It was only $3.00. I received asmall plate with ahuge T-bone steak hanging across it, with alarge meat patty, heavily laced with garlic and topped with onion and sliced beet, perched atop the steak. The waitress handed me asharp knife. Iasked her for afork and she replied: ‘This is the outback. Use your fingers.’”

Have you got the picture? Frank ended his letter with an open invitation to visit him and Eve in their two-bedroom flat at 284 Gooyong Street. When you get to Woomera, call (086) 737327, home, or (086) 739291, work, for directions. Woomera boasts about 1,200 population so maybe you won’t need directions.

We have anew record for the Class of ’60 Goneness Book of World Records. In the category of personal achievement, one of our class has established the record for getting high to get married. The delay in report¬ ing was as aresult of the validation process which called for some manner of visual proof. On 8May 1988, Rich CARTER wed Kathryn in aCon¬ tinental B727 in flight somewhere over Denver. They took 140 of their friends to the airport in double-decker buses, boarded the B727 and got a flying start at wedded bliss. Now does that really count as amarriage made in heaven? Iknow —corny. Ican hear the groans from here.

Kathryn and Rich Carter in flight before “the Preacher.

Rich mentioned that he and Rosie CLER have exchanged professional services over the past few years. Rosie has developed some business plans for Rich, who has lectured one of Rosie’s classes on business financing. It’s good to hear that you are out there Rosie. How about an update on some of your activities?

Bill and Judie ZERSEN sent an update on their experiences thus far. Bill mentioned that he was the first grad to SIE from pilot training and return to the navigator calling. As aC-130 Magellan, he flew ski-equipped Herk D-models wherever they could find snow and A-models as SAR for the first few Mercury launches which helped him discover the wonders of Mauritius (off the East coast of Africa). His trips there took him to Nairobi, Jo-berg, and Wheelus AB where the club still served camel burgers —an item 1remember all too well. He met Judie, an Alaska Airlines stewardess, in Anchorage in 1965 while dancing on apiano in a bar; is that correct Bill? After CCK and the war bit, it was Charleston AFB and C-141s. Directed to attend the University of Central Florida, Bill conned them into conferring an MBA of R&D Management on him. That degree led to the space business and aflow of assignments which took the Zersens ultimately to Southern California and their present home in San Pedro. Like several of us. Bill made the move to retirement at 26 years and found work with United Technologies. As these corpora¬ tions are wont to do, they had Bill commuting between Huntsville, AL, and San Pedro. In October 1988 after ayear and ahalf of that tedium. Bill opted for full-time status as aSan Pedroan (Pedroite?) and is now reacquainting himself with the never-ending “honey do” list. Bill and Judie’s two oldest children, Todd and Bridgetta, are at Cal State Long Beach while their youngest, Aaron, is in 9th grade allowing the thoughts of golf and fishing to gain importance in future planning.

The change-of-address cards this time show Neil DELISANTI going from Olympia to Tacoma, atrek of some 28 miles. DQMAYO, on the other hand, split the L.A. scene for the more pleasurable climes of Phoenix, AZ, ajaunt of some 400 miles.

Afinal comment for this issue: If you haven’t been to the Air Force Museum in some time and get the chance, don’t miss it. It has been ex¬ panded and many of the displays improved. It is asobering thought to walk through the museum and realize that more of the aircraft you flew are on the inside than the outside.

Randy Cubero

7163 Wintery Loop

Colorado Springs, CO 80919

Home: (719) 598-7155

AV: 259-3820

Percent members: 83

summer m

Well good people, by the time you read this article it will be the Rockies and the Class of 1989 will be well on their way to their first assignments. 1did alittle research and found out that Christopher FOSTER will be graduating this year and 1know the class joins me in congratulating not only Chris, but also mom and dad. Bill and Theda, for their support of that wonderful accomplishment. Christopher will be go¬ ing to Reese AFB in October and will spend the time between graduation and pilot training at USAFA coaching soccer. Chris was selected as an All American forward in soccer and will be competing in the senior bowl dur¬ ing spring break. 1heard another grandparent rumor, and it was con¬ firmed with aphone call. First Lieutenant Scott and Cathy QUINLAN had anewborn son on 17 Nov 1988. Scott is aMarine fighter pilot sta¬ tioned at El Toro Naval Air Station, CA and is currently flying F-18s. Dad thinks that he takes after the old chip or the old block, whichever (a direct quote).

The angle of incidence =the angle of refraction!

summer firing exercise? Of all things to remember —1couldn’t believe he came out with that because 1WAS THAT GUY. We all got hysterical when this tiny bit of trivia was cleared up. That last day of the conference Jan and 1rented acar and made arrangements to meet Brice at the Sonoma-Cutrer winery. 1won’t say much except that the layout, the facilities, and the surrounding area were all breathtaking. This next pic¬ ture shows afrontal view of “our” winery and the magnificent croquet fields in the foreground.

Navajo Hogan Get-Together

The locals got together in January and had agreat night out at Navajo Hogan’s. For those of you with good memories, that was the restaurant just south of the intersection of Fillmore and Nevada with the big ugly In¬ dian face sign. This first picture then is of all the ’61ers who made it that night. From left to right you have the STORMS, the JONESES, the ELLERS, the SAUNDERS, the HARINGS, the CUBEROS, the COPPOCKS, and only avestige of Nancy WILHELM. Poor Jim stuck with the camera duties. I’m happy to report that everyone is gainfully employed and enjoying their golden years. We didn’t do much class business but Iwill tell you that one of our classmates might have astar on his hands. 1later found out that Shari STORM was the singer of our na¬ tional anthem for the Wyoming-USAFA football game at Falcon Stadium, and let me tell you that girl has talent. Italked with Terry after¬ wards and he tells me that Shari is thinking of pursuing aprofessional career in singing. (So how come she doesn’t want to fly fighters and strafe?)

Ireceived anumber of letters this quarter and some with pictures in them. Lowell JONES wrote that he and Sandy had aChristmas party at their house with about 26 members of the class. He said that John SULLIVAN was retired in January and that Lee BUTLER did the honors. Also Ellen, John’s wife, threw afantastic retirement party on a railroad car at Union Station the night before the retirement ceremony. This second pictures show alittle experiment being run at the party by Terry Norris and Bill STACKHOUSE. They were betting that the fi re alarm would go off in aconfined place if the light switch were put on and Charlie’s head was placed equi-distant between the light and the fire alarm.

Jan and Ihad awonderful trip out to San Francisco for the NCAA na¬ tional convention and Idid get to see John Boesch, who started with out class and lasted till the end of the fi rst semester. John is the manager of Pier 39 and he had us and the wine maker, Brice JONES, and Susan Porth over for adelicious dinner. It was agreat evening and we talked about everything under the sun. John remembered alot about BCT and was wondering who was the “squat” in our class who grabbed ahold of the hot machine gun barrel and burned both his hands during our doolie

While we were all there in San Francisco, we did some talking about the 30th reunion and thought that maybe atrip out to the west coast might not be abad idea. We could plan on aharvest feast at the winery, and John Boesch could provide some excellent entertainment at Pier 39, such as aboating trip to Alcatraz island, for those of us who haven’t been there either professionally, or personally. That is something that Iwould like you all to consider and if you feel strongly that you would like to have the 30th reunion at some other location, please write or call and I’ll keep atal¬ ly and report the findings back in afuture article. The default position, naturally is that you all would like to have the 30th reunion at the Academy, and Iwill then request that the locals act as the class’s planning committee.

Ihave some additional letters and cards that Iwould like to share with you. First, in the French-exchange newsletter that Ireceive in the Depart¬ ment of Foreign Languages, Ilearned that John KOHOUT is now the deputy political advisor at HQ USEUCOM; Charlie MOORES and Maureen McCLOSKEY have moved from Texas to Michigan, where he will be the director of Marketing for Applied Dynamics International; Pat and Lee BODENHAMER (formerly Howie) have moved also to Coppell, TX, where Pat is working as amortgage counselor for the Lomas Mort¬ gage Company specializing in USAA customers. Lee, aka Howie, is plan¬ ning for his first marathon as the big 50 approaches, he continues to fly his comanche, and is looking for greater challenges in real estate develop¬ ment or management consulting. Dick COPPOCK passed aneat postcard from Wayne “Whiskey” WHALEN who is wintering in Mustique, West Indies. Whiskey tells us that he just finished athriller of abook about an

The lonely life of acroquet player!

Academy graduate who overcomes adversity, dispatches the enemy, gets the girl, and is even promoted. (I believe everything except the part about the girl.) He highly recommends Nelson DeMille’s The Charm School Warner Books (1989).

Some additonal potpourri: Ed ZOMPA took in aUSAFA hockey game in Alabama. Yes, we are talking serious ICE hockey here south of the Mason-Dixon line. Ed is the subcontracts manager for the Habitation Module for the Space Station Program at Boeing in Huntsville, AL; Ken STATTEN got his second star and is now the commander of the Ar¬ maments Division, Eglin AFB, FL; Frank WILLIS is also amajor general and became the 22nd AF vice at Travis AFB, CA; M/Gen Marc ANDER¬ SON is the 3rd AF commander at Mildenhall AB, England, and did an absolutely super job explaining all the 1988-1989 USAF accidents in Ger¬ many to the German Press. (This according to the AF attache in Bonn, Germany, Col Bob GIFFEN, ’65.) Finally, Igot to see Bob and Jan BRICKEY for ashort time in Salt Lake City when Iwas there for the WAC Basketball Tournament. This last picture is of all the Brickeys say¬ ing hello to the class for Valentine’s Day. David, their eldest, was 27 years old on the day that Ivisited and is planning to get married soon if Iheard the conversation correctly.

Finally, 1know that many of you were looking forward to afew words about the D&W weekend at Snowmass this year. 1have more than enough for this article, so unfortunately Iwill leave the gory details and picture for next quarter. Five Classmates showed up this year: BUCHNER, HARDAGE, QUINLAN, JONES, and myself to enjoy three glorious days of spring skiing. Sam passed his 50th with us and we didn’t give him anything except our sympathies. Sam and Vivian are expecting their first child this summer and are both extremely happy about the prospects of becoming parents.

Jim Wilhelm is heading aclass AOG membership drive. The goal is to be the first class to achieve 100% membership in the AOG. Jim tells me that as of this date we are 83% and number one in the Association. He’s hoping the 28 remaining classmates will join us before the 30th reunion.

Ileave you on asad note of another classmate passing away. Jim DICKSON died of pneumonia this month. Idon’t have any of the specifics but do know that funeral services were held in his hometown on 18 March. Jim is survived by his loving wife, Jackie, and their three children. Our deepest condolences to all the family and if anyone would like to write to Jackie she can be contacted at: 103 Central Avenue, Stirl¬ ing, NJ 07980.

With another dear friend gone, and having spent two nostalgic days with other Academy buddies, Ican’t help but think how important friend¬ ship has become to all of us at the mid century mark. Italked to afemale cadet yesterday who was considering leaving the Academy and Icouldn’t resist telling her about my annual meeting with aclose group of friends who Imet over 31 years ago. Itold her that she would certainly make good friends at another university but never as many as she has made, or will make here at USAFA. Take care and Ihope the summer will allow you time to enjoy and concentrate on all the important things and people in your lives.

DON’T MISS AMAGAZINE.

SEND IN YOUR NEW ADDRESS NOW.

John W. (Jack) Jamba

4Judy Court

Satellite Beach, FL 32937

Home: (407) 777-5520

Of fi ce: (407) 867-7758

Percent members: 66

HI REDTAGS! Well, the Shuttle returned to Kennedy Space Center on the 747 today. It was abeautiful sight to see. Talked to afew Redtags to¬ day. Have to get this column finished and in the mail, pronto. Last issue’s column was long because Igot some very good inputs from across the globe. This issue? Ineed more input. Give me your cooperation. Think of your input not as work but as achallenge.

First off, Ireceived aChristmas card from Connie and Owen HAWKINS. It was afamily picture taken on atrip to Kenya, Africa, last August (see accompanying picture). There was aone-line message on it. So Iexpect Owen to drop me aline some time this year to tell me about it.

I’ll move on to some address changes. Paul K. ROBINSON, Jr changed addresses in Las Vegas. Dick MANGOLD has moved to Palo Alto from Belmont. And John LUEBBERMANN has left an American Embassy somewhere in South America for anew assignment in Sacramento.

Last month agroup of Redtags got together for afun evening at alocal oyster bar. Larry and Penny GOOCH, Nancy and Willie GRAY, Colin RICHARDSON, Caroline and I, and Duke GREEN held anoisy gather¬ ing to reminisce with Duke. He was TDY at Eglin and drove down to the Central Florida area to visit his brother and shoot afew rounds of golf, something he couldn’t do well in Ohio at that time of year. He’s thinking about retiring sometime in the next year or two, so he has started looking around for prospective retirement locales. He’s enjoying the job as the deputy cmdr for Systems in the Foreign Technology Div at Wright-Pat. After the festivities, he drove off in his Porsche. We left in our Honda Civics and Toyota Corollas. Best of luck in Ohio. Give us acall when you’re back in the area again Duke.

Got anice letter from the WHITMANS just after Imailed my last col¬ umn. To wit: “Yes we retired from the Air Force on 1November after 26 years service. One of the reasons for retirement was that we found where we wanted to live, here in sunny Sacramento, so the timing was right on that count. Dave is busily trying to find ajob now in what is likely the worst time for that endeavor —the holiday season —but we are con fi ¬ dent the right thing will come up. While we are job hunting, we will live here in Selby Ranch, by the American River. ..Ann made the transition early, taking ajob in amedical suite where she is areceptionist/book¬ keeper for five doctors. She keeps busy, which is good, because it made the shock of transition alittle easier on her. Not only did it help ease the transition from military to civilian life, but when the nest emptied in July, it helped keep her from dwelling on that too.

“Young Dave finished college at Northern Arizona Univ., Flagstaff, and we were all there to proudly watch him accept his diploma in hotel and restaurant management in May. He is amanagement trainee with Sheraton in Arizona at the El Conquistador golf and tennis resort. He will probably be there for at least two years... we went down for Thanksgiv¬ ing to check it out and it’s first class.

“Beth is rapidly approaching the last semester at the Air Force Academy and will graduate the 31st of May. She will find out what her

Hawkins in Kenya. Connie is second from left, Owen is far right. The children are Greg, Kim, Chris, Colin and Cory.

Happy Valentine’s Day from the Brickeys.

first assignment will be the first part of the year. It will be somewhere as a mechanical engineer. She has alocation preference of course, and will try to find aspot in the aircraft test business. She has been super busy this year, has been asquadron commander for the first semester of the year. That responsibility has been awesome for her, especially with her already heavy schedule. When graduation comes around, she will have earned her second lieutenant bars in spades, and we will be the proudest parents in the stands.

“Julie was trying to decide what college to attend ...and last spring made up her mind that she would go to the Air Force Academy too. She left us the 29th of June ...She and Beth get together alot ... Ithink both will miss each other next year.

“We were lucky to have both girls and Dave make it back for Dave’s retirement ceremony -that meant alot to us both. That about wraps it up for now.” Thanks for the good news. Please keep in touch and let me know when you have settled into anew job and anew house.

JuHe, Beth, Dave, Ann and Dave Whiteman at Dave’s retirement.

Of course Ican’t pass up the opportunity to congratulate the four new two-stars in our class. They are: Gerald ADANIEL, Frederick A FIEDLER, Paul ELANDERS, JR, and Pete DROBINSON. Good luck and success in your next assignments. The Redtags wish you well.

And speaking about Fred Fiedler, he visited the area afew months ago just before Christmas. He was the guest speaker at the local Daedalians meeting. He gave an update on the B-IB bomber. 1had aprior engage¬ ment and missed the speech. However, the next day we all got together at alocal restaurant for breakfast. The local contingent and Fred, plus Ken FLEMING. Fred was really enjoying his job and learning as much as possible. We discussed teenagers and college and cars for teenagers, etc. It’s amazing how teenagers are so alike no matter where they are raised. Ken Felming gave us an update on his new job. He had an opportunity to accept the job with Embry-Riddle. If Iremember right, he is aprofessor in air fi eld business management.

Got acall from Jack SWONSON acouple of days ago. Jack is working for USAA in the Federal Savings Bank as the VP for Retail Notes. He does mainly customer relations with the retail customers. Polly sold the other house in Colorado Springs and joined him in San Antonio. Their daughter Heidi is an Air Force nurse at Travis. She’s getting out of the service. Her husband is an Air Force surgeon. He hopes to be stationed in San Antonio in ayear or two so the families can be together. Son Jack is stationed at Lakenheath. He has aUPT slot at Lubbock later this year. While there, his wife will go to Texas Tech.

Jack thinks USAA is an excellent company. Recently, Dave ROE was reassigned from pres of Financial Services Div to pres of the Property and Casualty Div. That’s part of Gen McDermott’s policy of career broaden¬ ing. Also in contact with Jack recently has been Neils JENSEN. Niels is central contact point for the Redtags in the local AOG chapter. John DINSMORE, The Deacon, is still in San Antonio teaching at UTSA and also doing some consulting work at Kelly AFB. Ken SMITH is also in San Antonio. And occasionally Jack will hear from A1 SIGMAN, calling from Denver.

And of course one of the highlights in the local area last week has been Larry GOOCH’s retirement from the Air Force. Larry drew front page notices for his retirement picnic. He invited all employees of the base and their families to the large picnic area on the base. Over athousand people showed up to wish him afond retirement. One of the local columnist wrote this little story: “RETIRING COLONEL BROKE OUR CAMERA. You’ve seen them, those camera-shy folks who laugh ner¬ vously and say ‘Don’t take my picture; I’ll break the camera.’ Col Lawrence Gooch gave no such warning Wednesday. But he sure messed

up our normally reliable, idiot-proof Canon. We aimed it at him during a farewell picnic on Patrick AFB. After nearly two years as Eastern Space and Missile Center commander, he’s retiring from the Air Force. Anyway the camera did what it was supposed to. It then decided once was enough. It carefully avoided focusing on him for the six more shots we took, in¬ cluding one with his fellow Air Force Academy Class of ’62 grads: Jack Jamba and Larry’s vice commander. Col Willie Gray. We’d put the little circle in the viewfinder smack in the center of Larry’s chest. The lens would focus on infinity instead. Six times! Later that day the camera got well.” Two days after the picnic, the Change of Command took place. A big article in the paper read thusly: “Bringing his military career to close Friday was not easy for Col Lawrence Gooch. When he singled out his wife, Penelope, for her support, Gooch’s voice wavered. Fie paused and struggled out a‘Thank You’ before stopping again to regain his com¬ posure and press on.” You know that was one of the few times Larry was speechless.

Last night Arlene and Fred HENDRYX had dinner with Caroline and me. It was agreat evening of relaxing conversation at alocal Mexican restaurant. They told me about how they enjoy spoiling their grandson. The house-building project is still progressing very well. Their jobs are keeping the days full. Fred’s involvement as aUSAFA Liaison Officer is providing him some very rewarding interfaces with our future officers. He enjoys it thoroughly.

Well 1guess that’s it for now. Keep the letters coming. Oh, Ijust thought of one thing. 1am volunteering to put together amini-reunion for our class in Orlando later this year or early next year. Ican make the arrangements with one of the nice hotels in the area. 1can plan it for the pleasant time of the year —not summer —and arrange for aside trip or two to Disneyworld, Epcot Center, Sea World, or aone to four-day cruise out of Cape Canaveral. Write or call to let me know if any of you are in¬ terested. Be good.

Norman 1. Lee, III 17532 N.E. 38th Court

Redmond, WA 98052

Work: (206) 655-4412

Home: (206) 882-0968

Percent members: 71

Right off the bat let me pass on congratulations to our new general of¬ fi cer selectees. To brigadier: Bill BALL, Pat CARUANA and Otto HABEDANK. To major general: John BORLING, Larry DAY and Sam WESTBROOK. If my figures are correct that brings the total to 13 classmates promoted to general officer.

Over the past few weeks 1received phone calls or visits from anumber of our classmates who live in or frequently travel to the Seattle area. Charles GEBHART works just down the street as atest pilot for Boeing Flight Test and tells me he is checked out on most of our products. That sounded like fun until one of the Navy TACOMO E-6 aircraft came back one day with most of its vertical stabilizer missing. Truthfully, 1begged Charlie for aride during aproduction test flight and he told me he would try. Also working for Boeing —as reported earlier —is George BARNES. George called to update his status telling me he works for customer services in airline support; speci fi cally, Australian and, I believe, Ansett Airlines.

John GAVIN called when he was in town last week on business but un¬ fortunately Icould only talk for acouple of minutes before heading back to asimulator session. John lives and works in Yakima, Washington — that’s where alot of the apples and grapes are grown. His business is Custom Tech Company of Yakima. John promised to have lunch with me on his next visit so Ican add more details then.

Two American Airline pilots called during stopovers. First, Dick FERENCY is talking alot about leaving Connecticut for Florida and Hank HOFFMAN still lives in Corona Del Mar, CA and doesn’t plan to go anywhere. Iimmediately congratulated Henry on his recent promotion to colonel in the USAF Reserves and he tells me he retired! Seems Henry spent enough time on active duty and/or active Reserve duty to qualify for 20-year retirement from active duty as acolonel. Beginning in midApril, 1am scheduled to spend three weeks working with aChinese flight crew at the Long Beach Flight Safety facility so 1plan to spend some time at Hank’s beachhouse having him explain how he pulled that trick out of his bag. If Iknow Hank, probably hard work and intricate scheduling.

Neil SORENSON checked in looking for someone to go skiing at Stephens Pass during the middle of the week. Neil is hard at it, working on his PhD in geography at the University of Washington and is going through the throes of getting started on his dissertation. The course work, orals and all those other presentations he needed to accomplish before

writing adissertation are all but completed. Unfortunately, Iwas not able to accept the skiing invite but did get in aday of skiing with our son, David, last weekend before he headed back to school in St. Louis.

We are getting settled somewhat in the Great Northwest but let me say the propaganda about raining all the time is Not True! We have had at least four measurable snowstorms this winter, two of which were “hum¬ dingers” rivaling anything we experienced back east. Iwalked out to my car one morning and there was at least 12 to 18 inches on the top and snow continued to fall all day and through the night. Everyone tells me the weather has been unusual this past winter.

Received anice letter from Dr. Gary WEST with some news about Dr. Jim OLSSON. Gary related, and Iparaphrase, Jim changed his name from Olson to Olsson most likely to keep from paying his debts for medical school —some of which he probably owes his classmates. For those of you so victimized, Gary says he knows where to find Jim. On a more serious note, Gary’s purpose was to let us in on the doings of some of the ’63 medical contingent. Jim, along with an Air Force doctor, Maj. James S. Atkins of Wilford Hall, have coauthored achapter on “Vestibular Disorders” published in “Otolaryngologic Clinics of North America.” Jim, it appears, is apioneer in the study of vestibular disorders and was the first otologist in the United States to evaluate patients with computerized rotation devices and laser traeking technology. According to the article sent me by Gary, Jim performed surgery two years ago on Archbishop Patrick Flores to relieve the severe vertigo and nausea caused by Meniere’s Disease. The procedure involved severing the vestibular nerve in the right ear.

Gary and Caron WEST participated in atrip to Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union as part of the United States 1987 delegation for the People to People Cancer program. Twenty-six doctors were invited to join the delegation, based on their backgrounds and interests. The visit included approximately 20 hours per week in technical meetings and discussion ses¬ sions, institution and facility visits, and informal gatherings with Euro¬ pean and Soviet colleagues. The focus of their discussions were ex¬ perimental approaches to cancer, state-of-the-art management of cancer, prevention and early detection, and cancer eradication in the future. Gary was chosen as one of the four members of the delegation to speak at Semelweiss University in Budapest on “Mechanisms of Solid Tumor Resistance to Adjuvant Chemotherapy.” He also spoke at the Soviet Union National Cancer Institute on “Clinical Trials of Pion Radiotherapy.” All was not work; however, the trip included areception and dinner at the home of the U.S. Ambassador to Czechoslovakia and attendance at aperformance of Swan Lake at the Bolshoi Theater in Moscow.

The Yees: Natasha, Cliff, Norma and Dennis.

My packet from the AOG included acard from Dennis and Norma YEE. Dennis reports his current endeavors include lecturing at the Inter¬ national Trade Department of Tung Hai University. Apicture with the card just proves the point demonstrated in the last article —the Class of 1963 is made up of some darn good-looking families.

OTHER CHANGES: Grady GAULKE’s new address is San Antonio, TX; Kent HARBAUGH reported in from Montgomery, AL; Jim JOHNSTON fl ies for Continental and lives in McLean, VA; Mike TOMME moved to Foster City, CA -still the Bay Area -and Paul VERDIER is the director, AVCO Research Laboratory, Textron in Colo¬ rado Springs.

My thanks for those of you who took the time out to write or call with some information about yourselves or others. Sure makes writing this col¬ umn awhole lot easier. Isuspect this spring and summer will see anumber of active-duty retirements as the magic number 26 is passed on 5June. If you have time during these hectic days leading up to that fateful day, 1 would appreciate ashort note or call on your plans or thoughts. Until next time, take care.

Bob Hovde

3Freedom Circle

Bedford, MA 01730

Home: (617) 274-7759

Office: (617) 377-8319

AV; 478-8319

Percent members: 69

REUNION: Hello again from Hanscom AFB! Although you won’t read this until June, it is March now, and I’m ready for it to warm up. The real point is, time is moving rapidly, and the reunion will be upon us before you see another Checkpoints!

The Reunion Committee is planning, organizing, and moving out. It sounds like we have an outstanding weekend in store for us. Ihope that everyone can make it. Every quarter of acentury, one needs to mark im¬ portant events, reflect upon the meaning of life, renew acquaintances, and drink beer.

While re flecting, Iwish all of you would seriously consider Hugh WILLIAMSON’S generous offer to match a$50,000 contribution to the AOG HQ/Alumni House as our 25th Reunion Class gift. This is, of course, alarge sum to raise. The Class of ’63 only came up with something over $30,(XX). However, as of March, when Iwrote this article, 84 members of ’64 had contributed atotal of $25,000! The AOG has made it easy —you can pay off your pledge over as long as two years. Dick HACKFORD said that everyone who has reached the grade of colonelactive or reserve —should donate at least $500. (Generals, lawyers and airline pilots, how about $1,000?) Everyone else should give what they can, but the important thing is to get as close to 1(X) percent participation as possible.

FAR AWAY: Tom RAUK called from Argentina to make sure of the reunion dates. He has to plan abit in advance to get here. (Speaking of career planning, get out your ’64 yearbook and check out what it said about Tom wanting to “eventually be an air attache in South America.”) Tom said that he thought he was the furthest south of all of us —but then he heard from Dick BROWN in Montevideo. (Yes, it is further south than Buenos Aires.)

NEWS: Just after my last deadline, Ireceived the Squadron Christmas Letters compiled by Dennis MONTGOMERY (10th Sq) and Jim LEMON (9th Sq), as well as anice letter from Inge (Jim) HEISZ. Iwill pass on the more important news from each.

10th SQUADRON: Jack PATERNO writes from New Jersey that he recently flew the last operational F-106 Delta Dart to the boneyard at Davis-Monthan. Unfortunately, it was also his last landing as an opera¬ tional USAF fighter pilot, since he has to retire due to insufficient reten¬ tion for checking out in the new unit airplane —the F-16. The poor guy is stuck with flying for TWA -the 727 domestically and the 747 interna¬ tionally.

George STEVENSON has been living in the Atlanta suburbs for four years now. He is working in Delta’s Flight Training Department, instruct¬ ing 727 pilots in the simulator. I’m afraid his note about Beverley was a bit cryptic for me, but Idid understand that both Wendy and Scott are in school (Georgia State Univ. and Univ. of Georgia, Athens, respectively). Scott wants to attend law school after graduation this year. (Naturally, They either stay in school forever or come back home to live. That’s why we keep moving every couple of years.)

Kris MINEAU has moved from Ramstein to Mildenhall, England, where he is the 3rd Air Force director of Logistics. The Mineau clan con¬ tinues to make progress (and prove how old we are getting). 2Lt Kris II is in pilot training at Reese, while Carrie is ajunior at ORU. They both

CLASS OF 1964 25TH REUNION

Sept. 7-10, 1989

Note: the Wyoming football game will be played on Sunday, Sept. 10 at 7p.m.

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS NOW!

stayed with the LACEYs in London and so highly recommended it that Lura and daughter Karen spent two nights at the “Lacey Manor” also. The Laceys and Mineaus managed to get together for schnitzel in Kaiserslautern (which surely was better food than they will normally get in England!). At any rate, with two classmates in England, it is beginning to be aplace worth having areunion.

Speaking of the LACEYs, the attache business keeps both Nick and Patricia busy. The last year was particularly interesting in London, with the Intermediate Range Nuclear Force Treaty and compliance inspec¬ tions; many visits by VIPs, from the President on down; the Farnborough Airshow; passing information to Number 10; and the Gulf War. Anew ambassador will also put adifferent spin on the ball, so this year should be interesting, also. All of the Lacey kids are with them: Gary is doing his second year of college in London; Brian is asenior in high school, is doing very well, and has applied to all of the colleges with tuition over $20,000; Alyson is afreshman, doing well in school, and traveling —Soviet Union, Spain, etc. Nick is worried about having two kids in college at the same time next year. Don’t worry, Nick. After you don’t have any more money, it’s free.

Roger HEAD writes from New Mexico that he is still the commander of the 6585th Test Group. If Nick thinks he has college problems, he should talk to Roger. This year, only Roger’s oldest, Keith, is in college (UCLA —sophomore), but next year, his number two son, Greg, will go. Also next year, Jane’s twin girls, Ashley and Betsy, will be in college. That’s FOUR at one time! Roger and Jane may have to walk to the reunion after paying the tuition bills.

Steve CROKER (recently promoted to major general!) writes that he, A1 ROGERS, Bob DEMPSEY, Thad WOLFE, and Brett DULA all live on the same street in Offutt AFB (General’s Row). Paul MATTHEWS is also there as assistant chief of staff. Steve’s oldest, Jeff and Tae, are 19 and both are sophomores in college. Cindy (age 16) lives with her mom in Delaware and is ajunior in high school. Genevieve (age 9) was the only lit¬ tle girl on the row until the Dulas arrived with their 10-year-old. It sounds like Steve and Virginia are enjoying Nebraska.

Ang CAPPUCCIO is living in San Mateo, CA, where he is in the com¬ puter business with Sun Microsystems. (He previously worked for an under-financed hi-tech venture that spent alot of money, produced some gate arrays, and went broke.) Ang is “Director of Financial Planning.” Since he knows how to go broke, maybe he can plan to make money? Ang and Ginger are enjoying life without children taking up space. Both girls (Piper, 22 and Jil, 20) are out of the house. Piper is working in New York, while Jil is working to be afashion designer and going to school in San Francisco.

Thad WOLFE and Jill have made the transition from Pease AFB, NH, to Offutt AFB, NE. After his general officer “Charm School,” Thad spent two and ahalf months briefing and teaching the Air Force revised Officer Evaluation System (a good way to see all of the SAC bases). He then became the deputy director for the National Strategic Target List on the Joint Strategic Target Planning Staff. The Wolfe Marine, Thori, is also doing well. He was commissioned in the Marine Corps, completed the Marine Corps Basic School, entered Naval Flight Training at Pen¬ sacola, and got married last year.

Louise BROWN writes from Florida, where she is the protocol director for Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University, working for Lt Gen (Ret) Tallman. She says that she misses the cadets, but still stays in touch by hosting and housing groups of cadets (golf team. Cadet Chorale, etc.) that come to Florida. She also does social training with the school’s AFROTC Detachment 157. (The largest voluntary detachment in the country and recently voted the best.)

Kathy LUKASIK says that she has learned to live one day at atime, even though the grief of losing John is still present. She also has learned about broken hot water heaters and garage door openers, carpenter ants, insurance, the IRS, and the advantages of having AAA PLUS. She still works at the Nashua (NH) Public Library and is going to school. “Three more courses to take and then Iwill never again have to write aresearch paper!”

Gabe FAIMON is back with the State of Kansas as administrator of the Rehabilitation Agency. He hadn’t planned to return to state service, but was made an offer he couldn’t refuse —giving him authority to innovate systematic change involving special education and private sector employer initiatives (dealing with training and placing persons with severe disabilities). He also says that for the first time in years, he can report that Danny (and wife, Paula), Jenna, Greg, Chris, and Caryn are all well — no football injuries, for once.

Terry ISAACSON should just about be finishing his Washington “train¬ ing” to be defense attache to the Philippines. He has been working full time on the review of the U.S./Philippine Military Bases Agreement, so it really has been on-the-job training. Meanwhile, Nancy has had to fight the beltway rush hours, too. She has worked for Giorgio in D.C., where

she has consistently been the top salesperson in the D.C. area. Heather stayed in Arizona, where she is afreshman at Arizona State University. Hollie is asophomore in high school in Virginia, and isn’t particularly happy at moving to the Philippines to be in her eighth school in 11 years.

I’m not quite sure where Jim VERSTREATE is now. He wrote in December that he was picked to be the Systems Command liaison to Tac¬ tical Air Command at Langley AFB. He decided to turn it down, and retired (supposedly) on 1March. He planned to stay in the Dayton area, since they own ahouse there, and the kids like the area. Anyway, three children are still at home. Kristen is afreshman at Wright State Universi¬ ty, Kim is asenior in high school, and Jeff (age 12) has discovered girls. Kerry is finishing up at William and Mary. (I assume that Sue is fine, too.)

Denny MONTGOMERY and Mary Jo are still enjoying Utah, where the skiing is great! Michael graduated from USAFA last year, and is now in pilot training at Laughlin, while Susan is living in Sarasota, FL, where she will probably go for amaster’s degree in counseling and guidance. Denny literally ran into John HOFFMAN skiing at Snowbasin last year. John is vice commander at Edwards AFB, and visits the detachment they have at Hill AFB (mostly during ski season?).

Deborah, Jim, Laura, Stephen and Inge Heisz.

Inge’s Letter: Inge HEISZ writes from Texas that everything has been going well for them (see family photo). Laura is in her 2nd year of law school at University of Texas; Deborah graduates this year from Texas Tech; Stephen is almost ateenager (enough said!); and they have one of Inge’s cousins, Stephanie, living with them for ayear and going to high school.

Meanwhile, Jim went off to Zimbabwe, Africa, to spend 21 days trek¬ king through the bush with his white hunter and entourage, so Inge and Stephen went to Germany to visit her family. She and Stephen had agreat time, and even visited the small village of Ludwag, where she lived and started school. The great white hunter, (see typical “white hunter” photos) the other hand, never got his leopard, but did shoot an elephant and some other animals. (The elephant provided food for an African village for aweek. Jim got to keep the ivory tusks.) Jim wants to go back to Africa, but Inge says next time he has to take her!

4iK

missioned will be four offspring of ’65ers: Stacy WATTS (Barry), Chris SHORT (Mike), John WARDEN (John), and Todd WILKOWSKI (Yo). Expect it to be aspecial occasion for all of us and, if the opportunity presents, will impose a“Proud Parents’” picture on all of you in the next column.

9th SQUADRON: Jim LEMON has retired also (1 Feb 89). He has ac¬ cepted ajob as aproject manager with Teledyne CAE, in Toledo, OH. He will be working on anew engine that could be used on cruise missiles. As of his writing, he still hadn’t convinced Dolores that Toledo was agood deal. Their son Bob and his wife had ababy boy in August, so they are RETIRED GRANDPARENTS! (Certainly not one of MY classmates!) Their daughter Kathy is still at Texas Tech as ajunior.

Jeff LEVY writes that he and Gittan are not sure what his job is, since his company (On-Line Software) reorganized and his division disap¬ peared. Since they asked him to stay on, Iguess he will have ajob.

Doug ROTMAN is in Lake Oswego, OR, where he imports and distributes compact tractors from Korea. He and Nancy keep busy just keeping up with Julie, who is in the eighth grade and is into competitive gymnastics at the state level, and John (1st grade), who figured out a math sequence which showed up several weeks later in Julie’s 8th grade math book. The smallest, David, is already understanding things that Doug “didn’t (understand) until well into school.” (Are we supposed to be surprised?) [Scribe’s Note: Have you noticed that our news covers kids and grandkids almost the same age?]

Larry SMITH and Jane are now in Tennessee, where he works for Federal Express as asimulator instructor. He will start flying for them later this year, after his mandatory two-year stretch as asimulator in¬ structor.

Gay GREEN writes that he and Virginia moved to Los Gatos, CA, from Los Angeles, and he formed his own company. He is running a satellite development for Stanford University. His daughter Kim gradu¬ ated from the Academy and is now in pilot training at Rease AFB.

Maggie BECKER writes that Walt still commutes into D.C. every day, but that it is getting old. (They live in Woodbridge, VA -not too far, but avery long commute.) Their daughter, Leia, is asenior at Virginia Tech, majoring in English. Todd is asenior at Woodbridge High, and is ready to get out of high school. Maggie still works for adoctor three days a week and does four quilt shows ayear.

Leroy STUTZ, chief of Maintenance for the 552d AWAC Wing at Tinker AFB (the home of AWACS), sent acard wishing everyone the best from himself and Karen.

Change of Address Cards: Karl WIDMAYER is now the air attache in Tokyo, trying to stay abreast of defense policy developments in Japan. Harvey MANEKOFSKY is now at HQ AFSC at Andrews AFB, where he is director of Engineering and Construction. Wayne CORDER moved to anew address in Honolulu. Finally, Carver SEARS has moved to Grass Valley, CA, and is working for the Grass Valley Group as Product Marketing Manager for fiber optic transmission equipment, while son Alex is afreshman at UC San Diego.

Ithink this is probably my longest column yet. My fingers are tired, but it is worth it. Keep those cards and letters coming, and we’ll see you in September!

Jerry “Ski” Wilkowski

2423 Rocky Branch Road

Vienna, VA 22181

Home: (703) 255-9083

Office: (703) 548-4400

Percent members: 68

4 &mas

By the time you receive this edition of Checkpoints, anew class of Greytags will have joined the active DoD force (May 31st). Newly com-

While on the subject of special occasions, Iwas privileged to attend Don BROWN’S retirement ceremony on March 31st. Don left OSD/Operational Test &Evaluation (OT&E) for aprogram manager’s job with Morton Thiokol in Ogden, UT. The ceremony, presided over by Jack Krings, AsstSecDef/OT&E, was an emotional and uplifting ex¬ perience for all present. Don’s comments were particularly stirring as he traced his maturation from adetermined young jock flying F-4s out of DaNang, SVn during his first operational assignment to amighty desk jockey warrior wielding asharpened pencil during ceaseless battles among the cubicles of the Pentagon. He spoke to his early resolution to make the AF alittle better for his successors and of finally being given the chance to influence the system which had failed the fighter force in the early days of the war by approving the operational deployment of the Mk-36 bomb without athorough OT&E. Don closed by warmly and fondly recognizing the “force” which sustained him throughout his career, the love of his wife Dee and their three children. Frank McCANN, Lee ALTON, and Tim GRAVES were also present; Iwish more of you could’ve been.

Frank, by the way, continues as the Academy’s representative to the Air Staff and font of all knowledge regarding the admissions process. His of¬ fice number (202-695-4005) could be useful for those of you with off¬ spring who may be interested in pursuing an appointment to the Academy. Lee, the deputy to the director for International Programs in AF/Programs &Resources, is the font of all knowledge for matters deal¬ ing with foreign military sales and security assistance programs throughout the world. Or so he tells me during pauses from being fed this knowledge by his staff through afire hose. Tim, a“Parkway Patriot,” is a senior analyst at the Institute for Defense Analysis; he is the font of all knowledge and has billed deliverables to prove it!

Congratulations are in order to Hal ESTES, ’65’s first selectee to major general. Our sincerest best wishes for your continued success. And con¬ gratulations are also due Doug “Butch” FAIN for his efforts as an adjunct professor of economics in the adult education program of Regis College. Doug, who by day is the manager of Planning for the Magellan Spacecraft for Martin Marietta, Denver, was featured in arecent edition of the Regis alumni magazine for his commitment to teaching and to his students. He has taught over 100 courses in economics and management in the past 10 years and has earned plaudits which include the following; “Mr. Fain is incredible. He needs to be cloned. I’ve never enjoyed aclass more and it wasn’t because of the subject matter, but because of Doug.” Terrific testimony Doug, especially coming from the school which housed our arch rivals for the affections of the young ladies of Loretto Heights! I suppose that ever since they settled that rivalry by buying out Lo Hi they can afford to be gracious in their treatment of ex-Cadets! Seriously Doug, you can be justifiable proud of your accomplishments and the honor you have brought to all of us.

Mentioning Doug’s efforts with the Magellan Spacecraft reminded me of an article in the March 6th edition of Aviation Week &Space Technology which introduced the Mission 29 space shuttle crew and our own John BLAHA. John was the mission pilot for that third shuttle flight since the Challenger accident and done good. One takeoff, one landing and plenty of excitement in-between. After you complete your 781 write¬ ups, John, Iwould appreciate ashort note about the experience that could be shared with my loyal readers. Which reminds me, Istill have not received asimilar note from our first astronaut, Roy BRIDGES, pilot of Mission 5IF, who was recently assigned as the commander of the Eastern Space and Missile Center. Perhaps NASA’s numbering system for its mis¬ sions holds aclue to the sequence in which Ican expect to receive notes from John and Roy.

ZIP CODE CHANGES: John HOWARD from Sterling, VA to New Bern, NC where he is apilot with American Airlines; Marc SABIN to Germantown, MD where he is employed as the vice president. Systems Engineering for Fairchild Space Company; Chuck HASS to Tulsa, OK; Bill PEPPER from Satellite Beach, FL to Emigrant, MT (which is be¬ tween Bozeman and Yellowstone National Park and aremarkable move for its severe contrasts in scenery and climatic conditions) tell us more Bill; Bob LAMBERT to Bainbridge Island, across the Puget Sound from Seattle and his job as PAS at the University of Washington (finally reaching your ambition of taking to ferry to work, Bob? At least half¬ way?); Bruce WOOD remains in the Eglin AFB area but moves from Niceville to Freeport, FL; and Bill HERRICK from Bloomington, CA to Prospect, KY.

FINAL NOTE: Recognize that many of you will be on the move this summer either for vacation or changing residences; and that you will be very busy. But not so busy, Ihope, that you cannot find time to drop a

Jim Heisz, the Great White Hunter!

letter, postcard, or short note to your friendly scribe. The mailbox has been mighty sparce as of late. Iknow that you or your children are doing things which you’d love to share with the rest of us. Please allow me to be the conduit for passing on that information. And, most importantly, don’t forget that one picture is worth athousand words. Best regards to

all.

Ryan Denny

PSC 4, Box 17493

APO San Francisco, 96408-0006

Percent members: 70

Greetings Redtags! I’m writing this letter in my tent at Kimhae AB, Korea, during TEAM SPIRIT ’89. As Isit here, all those valuable lessons we learned in Survival Training come rushing back to me: If you don’t sleep, you get tired. If you don’t eat, you get hungry. If you get dumped on, you get mad. Iknew Td be able to use that training some day.

Our class held down some of the key positions during this exercise. John MARSHALL, the 51 TFW commander at Osan AB, hosted afew thousand participants in atent city that Iheard was called “Camp Mar¬ shall.” He also seemed to own apiece of the action at every other base in the country. Mike CONNORS, the DO of 3rd Air Division in Hawaii, was heading up the SAC contingent at Osan. 1ran into him in the halls of the HTACC, but we were both too busy ripping the lips off of com¬ munists to exchange much information.

Bill WACKER, the 611 MASG commander at Osan, was the deputy commander of airlift forces for the exercises. He was somewhere in my chain of command, because Iwas the airlift wing commander at Kimhae. Another classmate, Carl BAKER, tried to get into the action, but was taken out early by abad back. Carl is the new DO of the 3TFW at Clark AB, and his troops were in the thick of things with their F-4Gs and F-4Es. Isaw Phil GARDNER at Clark before TEAM SPIRIT started. He is the PACAF chief of Intelligence and must have had something to do wit!i the exercise.

BITS AND PIECES: Jim HIGHAM has moved from the base com¬ mander job at Reese AFB to an unknown postion at Columbus AFB. Norm RATHJE has moved from one house to another at SeymourJohnson AFB. Idon’t know if that means anew job or termites in the old house. Dick BOROWSKI has been the vice commander of the 6585 Test Group at Holloman AFB. He also just moved to anew address at Holloman. Is this anew job or did his old house fill up with blowing sand? Mike MARCUCCI has moved from San Gabriel, CA to Yardley, PA, and Lynn DUDLEY has moved from PRM in the Pentagon to AFLC/XRM at Wright-Patterson AFB as the director of Manpower and Organization.

If Isound like I’m begging for information -Iam. I’m on my knees begging for information, and the floor of this tent is getting cold; so help me out, guys, before my knees freeze. Drop me aline, give me acall, put a message in abottle. ..In the meantime, as you travel around this summer, look up aclassmate and tell each other how tough we had it back in the days of pleated trousers. Happy Landings.

Dan Morgan

3012 Sunland Drive

Alamogordo, NM 88310

Home: (505) 434-3186

Work: (505) 479-3181

AV: 867-3181

Percent members: 65

Pierce TURBIVILLE retired in Sep 88 and was certified as atennis teaching professional by the U.S. Pro Registry, adramatic lifestyle change which he loves. In addition to giving private lessons, he’s coaching ahigh school tennis team in Fayetteville, NC. His wife, Judie, teaches math at the same school. Their son Patrick (16) is their star baseball player, hoping to win abaseball scholarship in 1990. Mark (12) loves to play basketball and is an excellent student. They intended to stay in Fayet¬ teville until Patrick graduates in June 1990. Then Pierce hopes to get a head pro job at atennis resort on the southeastern coast: “Somebody has to do the dirty jobs, Iguess.” Pierce (P.T.) raced through six matches without losing aset to win his third Pope AFB singles crown before retir¬ ing from active duty.

Tom and Georgia BARNETT live in Phoenix with their daughter Kristen, born 2/8/89. Does this qualify them as having the latest ’67 off¬ spring? Tom writes, “We have plenty of room in an old remodeled home in the middle of town to host any friends in the area.” They own and operate five Burger King restaurants, and are involved in achain of local breakfast/lunch restaurants.

AOG Updates: Nearby at Pope AFB, NC, Stump SOWADA has set¬ tled in since December as vice commander of the 317th TAC Airlift Wing.

At Mather AFB, CA, Alex ARCHIBALD is ADO of the 323rd FTW. In 1988, he earned an M.A. degree in political science while commanding the Security Police Sq. at Sheppard AFB (MSM also awarded). Thanks for adding some data on your change-of-address notices, guys; that does help the column.

Have agreat summer, and let me know what you have been doing or who you have seen this past spring. Short column this time, despite some inputs; next deadline is late June —not July, folks!

Dennie and Shirley Watson with the whole family.

BRING IN THE RESERVES: We have several classmates who are Reservists, but Dennie WATSON is one Reservist who is spending more time on active duty than he did when he was on active duty (almost). Den¬ nie is aReserve advisor at HQ MAC and is enjoying life at Scott AFB. In their family picture you’ll notice that none of the children look like Den¬ nie (at least they all have hair). Lisa, Ty, and Todd are attending the University of Miami of Ohio. Lara is finishing high school and Shannon is in the fifth grade. Shirley (she’s the mom) is teaching special ed and rais¬ ing horses.

WING KINGS AND OTHER THINGS: Arnie WEINMAN has moved from the vice commander’s job at Wurtsmith AFB to become the com¬ mander of the 92nd Bomb Wing at Fairchild AFB. He lives at 1Com¬ manders Drive —there’s no doubt about who’s in charge at Fairchild! Jim MURPHY has moved from MAC/XP to Ramstein AB where he is the commander of the 608 MAG. Jim’s group provides VIP airlift for Europe with a fl eet of C-12, C-21, C-20, and C-135 aircraft. Iknow there are some more of you Redtags out there who have recently taken charge of something, but you’re keeping it asecret. Send me an invitation to your change of command. Ipromise Iwon’t show up, but I’ll let the rest of the class know how well you are doing.

Tim Davidson

2893 S. Abindgon St., A-2 Arlington, VA 22206

Home: (703) 931-4166

Of fi ce: (202) 693-2896

AV: 223-2896/7

Percent members: 61

Spring sprang yesterday in the nation’s capital, but someone forgot to tell the weatherman to order up some sunshine, gentle showers, or chirp¬ ing birds, Instead we received the brunt of agloomy cold and wet front topped off with sleet on our windshields during the drive home. Exactly the kind of weather necessary to give our new secretary of defense asoggy welcome to his new digs at the Puzzle Palace.

First, many thanks to those of you who put pen to paper over the last few months to give me an update on your activities. The job of class scribe is sort of like being adisc jockey. You really don’t know if you are reaching anyone unless your listeners take time to call in. So, for all you ’68ers out in “Checkpoints Land,” know that your cards, letters, photos, and phone calls are always welcome and appreciated.

From the mailbag, Ihad some rerouted Christmas correspondence c/o

Mark and Mimi TORREANO. Pat O’GRADY writes that he and Kathy are pursuing master’s degrees in business administration and counseling, respectively, at the University of Redlands. His daughter, Kieran, turned sweet 16 in December and son, B.J., is enjoying 9th grade. Pat is spending what spare time he has restoring his ’55 Chevy.

Mark also sent acouple of super family scene photos.

Bill and Katie WOOD checked in via family newsletter. For aquick ver¬ sion of their two-page effort: Dog Toby hit by car. ..doing better after surgery to fuse front leg knee joint. ..now wears bootie when going out¬ side. Dennis considers baseball #1 sport. ..is math whiz. ..reads five books/month for free pizza. New teenager, Aimee, known as “Cow Lady” in school. ..finished 14th in state championships in breast stroke as high school freshman. ..also plays soccer. Robb is co-captain of swim¬ ming/diving team. ..looking for Academy or ROTC scholarship nomina¬ tion. Will left CU and now enrolled at Metropolitan State College (in Denver) in four-year professional pilot program. Katie keeping up with kids’ activities and co-heading Arapahoe Swimming/Diving Booster Club. Bill in charge of 35 personnel and hoping to land major contract ...also serves as soccer and swimming booster.

In asimilar vein, the ROBERTSON’S letter arrived with belated holiday greetings and the announcement of Tony’s assignment as wing com¬ mander of the 384th Bomb Wing at McConnell AFB (B-lBs). Brenda writes that Sean served on the yearbook staff at Bossier High and has a super soccer season. Jason also played soccer and should be aLife Scout in the near future. He has set agoal of Eagle by age 14. Tony and Brenda’s new address: 3000 Win fi eld, Wichita, KS 67210.

While home on Christmas leave from his “rigorous” academic schedule at Harvard, Mark TORREANO, and his French poodle. Rocky, made the Wildlife section of the Gazette Telegraph. It seem that Mark was tak¬ ing Rocky for awalk on asnowy eve and saw what looked like adeer car¬ cass from adistance. Now with tension mounting. I’ll let Mark put it in his own words. “I was pretty close to it when Isaw the head and eyes look¬ ing at me and realized it was amountain lion. Icalled my dog (Oh Rocky) and backed away from there. ..It looked like afull-grown one. It wasn’t small.” After this episode, Mark was courted by several major networks to star in amovie on the times and life of Marlon Perkins of “Wild Kingdom” fame.

In addition to hair-raising adventure at home, Mark also had aone¬ time good deal (all expenses paid) field trip to Beijing, Shanghai, Hong

Kong, Tokyo, and Hawaii. While in Beijing, he linked up with Larry and Sally MITCHELL. Larry is currently serving as air attache in the PRC. When he got to Hawaii, although suffering from severe jetlag, Mark grabbed afew guys for apicture who happened to be in the area at the time.

Walt YAMAMOTO is an optometrist in Honolulu. In addition to shar¬ ing parenting responsibilities with Naomi for their two children, he is finally finding time to chase little white balls around fairways and greens again. Jim NEU and Henry HUNGERBEELER were refugees from Air War College when this photo was snapped. Jim SEEVERS is chief of Manpower, PACOM/J-1 and Don MOTZ is chief of the Command and Control Division at PACAF/DO. Finally, the photo-elusive Milt TANAKA (not pictured again in this column) is commander of the Cur¬ rent Operations Division, 15th Civil Engineering Squadron, at Hickam AFB.

In sharing times gone by, Jim NEU recalled this Frank BIRKism. While aDoolie, Frank was given aride back to the Academy by an Air Force MSgt who told him how lucky he was to be attending USAFA, because he was guaranteed to become acolonel before he was done. Frank, accord¬ ing to Jim, came back to the squadron area just thrilled that he was going to make colonel in only four years! (Rejoinder space reserved for Frank BIRK for Jim NEU stories next column.)

Other correspondence came in from A1 BLUMBERG, who writes that he is now in partnership with a’63 grad, Everett VAUGHN, in afinancial services company. His company offers accounting, bookkeeping, tax, in¬ surance, and investment services. He also remains active with the Academy Liaison Officer (LO) Program and is currently serving as the LO commander for Southern Colorado. A1 will be pinning on Lt Col’s leaves in June as aresult of his efforts.

A1 informs me that Mike MOSS was remarried to Cherise and that they are living in Kannapolis, NC. Mike is apparently working in areal estate development firm and is building houses at an “awesome” rate.

Also heard from Gary DIKKERS who is commander of the 4th Air Support Operations Center in Europe. Last August, he was one of 70 Americans who joined 480 Frenchmen in riding bicycles from Cherbourg to Strassbourg. The purpose was to retrace Gen Patton and Gen LeClerc’s

From left are Walt Yamamoto, Jim Neu, Henry Hungerbeeler, Jim Seevers, Mark Torreano and Don Motz. Not pictured is Milt Tanaka.

La famille Maahs —Larry, Jan, Jim, Joanne and Julie.

Don and Bev Motz with three blondheaded sons in tow.

{l!b CH £B>eu

Gary Dikkers and his mighty steed on the Cherbourg-to-Strassbourg run.

route across France in 1944 during the liberation. Gary said initially it was fun, but 1,485 km later it got old.

Dot —Dot -Pause -Dash -Pause -Dash -Pause -Dash -DashPause-Dot (I-T-T-M-E). Yes, Morse Code buffs. Bob WILLIAMS is returning to civilization from /ncirlik, Turkey To Mildenhall, England. Having moved from Clark to Ramstein to Balikesir to Incirlik over the past 11 years. Bob says that he’s gone about as far east as you can get in the Air Force and is happy to be moving westward to Mildenhall. Having missed our 20th reunion because of distance, he states that figuring in continental drift and Coriolis force he should be in about the right posi¬ tion to make the 30-year. After alengthy separation. Bob is looking for¬ ward to joining his wife. Missy, who is stationed at Lakenheath. His new assignment is battle staff director on USCINCEUR’s Airborne Command Post with the Silk Purse Control Group.

From the “Bump Into Dept,” Iran into Fred GROSS in February on a TDY to Pope AFB. Fred’s job was to keep the 1st Special Operations Wing’s aircraft flying during their month-long ORl at four separate loca¬ tions. His outstanding efforts were clearly one of the factors contributing to the wing’s “Excellent” rating from the MAC inspectors. On the same trip, Ialso saw Bob McGUIRE who is working on the staff of the Joint Special Operations Command. Bob was excited that his son, Sean, after having been selected as an All Mid-South Defensive Lineman in high school, had just signed aletter of intent for afour-year football scholar¬ ship at North Carolina State. Congrats to father and son!

Also saw Bob LUTTER the other day and he plans to exchange Air Force blue for coat and tie on 1June. Bob, we wish you and Marty the best as you transition into civilian life. Steve BAILEY was at the Pen¬ tagon for two weeks on the night shift of WINTEX-CIMEX 1989. Lisa and Ihad awonderful time showing him Old Town Alexandria on his last night in town and hope that next time he can get Tina to join him on his TDY. At the Pentagon AOG meetings I’ve seen Steve POLK, Bob PAVELKO, Jim TERRY (now with LORAL), Jack WEBB, and Cort DUROCHER.

My apologies to Dick RUFFING for leaving him out of the last col¬ umn. Dick is working for ARINC Research out of Annapolis, MD in the simulation, training, and operations requirements end of the business. He mentioned that he is ready for a’68 tailgate for the Navy game this year. Beau BEAUREGARD called and said that he has been working for the past six months at Whitney, Bradley, &Brown as adefense consultant. The group consists of agroup of acquisition officers from all the services who are also former test pilots. Basically, the group fills in holes for pro¬ gram defense system managers and work milestones to keep budgets and schedules on track. Beau said that he is active in the AFA Society of Washington, DC and that it is agood organization for networking.

1appreciated the call from Bob DURHAM yesterday to give me some fresh info for the column. Isaid, “Thanks for calling Bob. ..What’s new?” Bob said, “Nothing, absolutely nothing!” Actually, we both talked about future assignments and how we would appreciate alittle more forthrightness from the Air Force on such things as command lists. In ad¬ dition, Bob mentioned that his son Jason has been accepted into the University of Texas. Congrats!

Anote of thanks goes out to Jim, but particularly Lin THOMPSON, for assisting me in planning asecret getaway with Lisa to Hawaii for our honeymoon. Lin’s travel agency came through and Lisa did not have a clue as to our ultimate destination. Lin THOMPSON, we could use you in our Special Operations business!

To end this portion of the column, Lisa and Iare particularly indebted to the cordial hospitality we received while on TDY to Kirtland AFB. To Col Jim PAGE (Class of ’65, wing commander of the 1550th CCTW, and guy who sends me Christmas cards for Charlie HOLLAND), Charlie and Nancy HOLLAND, and Col Jim WHITE (1550th/DO), thank you for such awonderful visit. If you are ever in D.C., please allow us to return the favor.

“68 Spotlight” for this issue focuses on Joel GORDES. Joe is now a two-term state representative for the state of Connecticut. As a Democrat, Joel ran against aRepublican and an Independent opponent in aRepublican district in 1988 and won convincingly. His central issues in¬ volve protection of the environment, energy conservation, and solar engergy. His wife, Lin, tells of arecent trip that Joel made to Moscow, Kiev, and Leningrad with agroup of Connecticut state legislators. Ap¬ parently, Joel’s three semesters of Russian at the zoo were alittle rusty out of the memory banks, but that he did very well with old Russian folk songs. She was concerned that his mispronunciations as well as his ques¬ tions about Katherine the Great’s horse might not bode well for him get¬ ting out of the country. To Joel and Lin we wish many more successful conquests of public office.

Address changs are as follows; Jim CAMP is working with US Air and has moved to Carlsbad, CA; Randy JOHNSON is commander of Det 6, 507 TAIRCW at Fort Polk, LA and has moved to DeRidder, LA; John

Joel and Lin Gordes

MACON is still selling his super video on the Class of ’68 and has moved to Omaha, NE; Bill MAYWHORT is running for AOG Board and needs your support and has changed addresses in Englewood, CO; and Don MOTZ has moved to Mililani, HI.

That’s awrap for now. Take care, mind the flak, and keep those cards and letters coming.

Lindsey Parris

5926 Colfax Ave.

Alexandria, VA 22311

Home: (703) 998-0488

Work: (202) 475-2525

Percent members: 58

Greetings, ’69ers. The swallows have returned to Capistrano, so Ihope you’re keeping your knees loose and your glove oiled-the next one may be hit at you. Just pray they haven’t forgotten to drag the infield!

Received an interesting note from Tim COURINGTON, still “exec”ing for the commander of Electronic Systems Division, AF Systems Com¬ mand, near Boston. He included awonderful clipping from the Denver Post, featuring none other than Chris PAULSON, the majority leader of the Colorado House of Representatives. Chris, who has introduced a$2.3 million bill to beef up the Colorado Bureau of Investigation’s ability in the drug enforcement area, had listened for two hours to every word of a drug buy, in which an undercover cop got the gram of cocaine he wanted plus $5 change back from the $130 he had given the dealer some one and a half hours earlier. Congrats to you, Chris, keep up the good work. Tim also passes along that Harry UTTER will continue his longstanding career with the Secretary of the Air Force’s Of fi ce of Special Programs (SAF/SP), but in mufti.

Joe PERSONETT continues as acaptain with Japan Air Lines, flies out of Tokyo’s Haneda Airport, and has moved from Tokyo to

mWinter Magic

Atone human stands near the Planetarium after awinter ice storm transformed the trees into luminous statues and the grass into multi-colored crystal balls. (USAFA photo by Darrell Wagner)

CLASS OF 1969 20-YEAR REUNION

HOMECOMING 1989

USAFA vs Texas-El Paso

MAKE YOUR RESERVATIONS NOW!

Yokohama. Also abroad for the time being is Jim KULA, who departed Moody AFB as assistant director of Operations to attend the NATO Defense College in Rome. Ron ERICKSON has also departed Valdosta and now lives in Aurora, Colorado. Lee SNAPP, who is helping out with the reunion, lives in the Springs and is an analyst with Space Command.

Tom OLIVER writes on aNabisco Brands notepad and has changed his permanent mailing address to DOLE Philippines c/o aSan Francisco ad¬ dress. Tom HAKEMAN is aTest and Evaluation manager for Boeing Military Airplanes and lives in Papillon, Nebraska, even if his address — 11411 S. 57th Avenue -is straight out of The Bonfire of the Vanities. Gene WHALEN has changed addresses, but still lives in McKinney, Texas. PK CARLTON commands the Medical Center at Scott AFB.

Having relocated to California are Tracy RHODES, now living in Vacaville (having moved from Altus, Oklahoma), Clyde CHERRY in Tehachapi (from Alberta), and Craig FRENCH in El Segundo (from the D.C. area).

Randolph AFB still claims several ’69ers, Duke MOREHOUSE and Stick TURNER with Air Training Command (Duke with the wing and Stick with the headquarters -wouldn’t you know Stick would be ahead¬ quarters guy!), and Foot INGERSOLL and Tip OSTERTHALER at HQMPC. Foot still heads up the promotions secretariat and Tip recently assumed control of Colonels’ Assignments, so you all know who to call.

Vague references to “the system” will be duly noted.

Don RAKESTRAW hosted aget-together for D.C.-area oVers, and packed his home with tipsy revelers adorned with bits of memorabilia from our era at the zoo. An incompleted listing of attendees, some of whom you may be able to make out in the accompanying photo: Larry ALEXANDER, Jeff TRENTON, Tom McGRAIN, Tom KECK (and his sister, honorary class member Sunny), Chip SUMMERS, Bob SUTTER, CJ WAX, Larry STELLMAN, Tim MUELLER, Terry BRADY, Bart TUCKER, John BUCKNER, Tom LUTTERBIE, Jack OVERSTREET, Steve THOMPSON, Dave SPENCER, Jeff WISE, Clay BAILEY, Ken FRESHWATER, Ron HINDMARSH, Jim STOREY, Chuck VOLMER, Wally BERG, Skip SKINNER, Art PAVEL, Steve HANNAH, Larry HOWELL, Burr CRITTENDEN, Jim DRYDEN, Dick DOYLE, and Jerry BROWN. The question of the evening was guessing how many golf balls Panamanian strongman General Noriega could hide in his mouth. (Hint: Larry ALEXANDER insists the general’s right cheek is apar 5.)

Now to some reunion business. Through the outstanding assistance of LtCol Bruce Doyle, the Academy’s director of Visual Information Ser¬ vices (DFSIV), we have an excellent opportunity to obtain ahigh-quality, professionally-done videotape. We now need only the pictures to splice onto the tape. If you have photographs from our cadet days, please loan them to DFSIV. 35mm color slides are the preferred medium, but printed photographs can also be accommodated. We can also use 16mm film clips if they are available; however, 8mm will not work. Pictures will be han¬ dled with care, copied, and returned promptly to you, or to the owner. Our ’69 Reunion Committee will blend the copies into the tape. Those of you willing to loan pictures should send them directly to:

Mr. Lee Padgett (Class of ’69 Reunion)

Visual Information Services/DFSIV USAF Academy, Colorado 80840

Pictures must be received at DFSIV not later than 15 June 89 to be includ¬ ed in developing the tape. Although Col Doyle will provide amaster tape for our use, he cannot legally duplicate copies for individuals. After you’ve seen the finished product, we’ll find out what the demand is for copies and work out reproduction details accordingly.

If you haven’t made arrangements for the reunion, then in the name of God, Country, Liberty and the American way -which includes unlimited access to mud-wrestling -please do so. Cheers to all.

Jerry Bruni

6325 Snowbird Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Home: (719) 528-8736

Office: (719) 633-1793 (in Colorado) (800) 225-1163 (outside Colorado)

Percent members: 56

I

This has been aslow quarter for news, but that’s okay because Iwant to focus on just one topic this time —our 20th Year Reunion. 1know the big event is next year, but if we’re going to make this reunion special (and I think 20 years is special), then we need to start thinking about ideas now. For example, we need agroup of classmates willing to form areunion committee and work with the AOG. For obvious reasons, it would be easier if at least some of this committee came from classmates living in the local area. Mike VILBERT, who teaches in the USAFA Management Dept., has volunteered to help and I’m willing to help, too. Still, we need more people and we really need ideas and input.

Picture yourself in charge of the 20th Year Reunion for amoment. What would you like to see? 1put that question to afew of our classmates in the local area and got quite afew interesting ideas. For example, Mike pointed out that most of us have worn out our USAFA T-shirts (or they no longer fit or they’ve gone to mold). Would you like to get some new ones ordered for the reunion? For those of you who haven’t seen acadet in some years. I’ll point out that nowadays, USAFA T-shirts come with the cadet’s last name silk screened above the USAFA (instead of those small cloth labels we used to try to sew on). Would you like an oldfashioned shirt (sans name) or the newer style? How about our class year on the shirt?

Just Like Yesteryear C4C Dean G. Boerrigter researches original photographs depict¬ ing the evolution of military airpower in the Special Collections Branch of the Cadet Library. (USAFA photo by SSgt. Renee Tyron)

While we’re on the subject of memorabilia ideas, 1should mention a nice conversation 1had with Mike TORREANO the other day. Actually, what led to this conversation was an odd meeting Mike and Ihad last week. 1was riding down the elevator at work (1 work in the Colorado Springs skyscraper —10 stories) in ahurry to make adentist appoint¬ ment, and 1didn’t really notice when the elevator stopped to pick up another passenger. At any rate, afloor or two from the ground level this passenger leaned over and said, “You’re Jerry Bruni.” It was Mike. We had about 30 seconds of conversation and then we both had to run, but later Itracked Mike down at Northwestern Mutual Life where he’s been working for 10 years helping small businesses set up employee benefit plans. Mike left the Air Force from the USAFA faculty (the English Dept.), and he still teaches an evening course at the Colorado Springs branch of the University of Colorado. He also stayed in the Reserves and he’s currently asquadron commander in aReserve unit at Peterson AFB. Mike had knee surgery recently (with alocal ’74 grad doing the cutting), and he’s looking forward to resuming his active handball schedule.

Meanwhile, back to the reunion, Mike and Italked about various possibilities. For example, how about some red tags with our names? What about nameplates (red, of course) suitable for desktops? Would classmates like to see the 31st Street Exit singing group again? How about asightseeing tour of the USAFA area or the Colorado Springs area for those wives who haven’t seen this place before? What about atour for zoomies whose last memories of Colorado Springs were of atown with less than 100,(XX) people (it’s over 350,000 now)?

Mike took some time to fi ll me in on the whereabouts of afew more classmates, but he was talking faster than Iwas writing and my mind kept drifting back to the reunion. (You know what I’d really like to see at the reunion/homecoming? I’d love to see aresumption of the USAFA vs. University of Colorado football rivalry. If my memory serves me right, “rivalry” is way too soft aterm.) At any rate, Mike mentioned Bill MAN¬ NING is doing very well with General Foods in Delaware, Ed EPPING is aplant manager at amanufacturing plant in Indiana, Bob CHADWICK is alawyer in Rochelle, IL; Chris CLARK is doing something at WrightPatterson, and Ray McKELVY is flying something in England. That’s not alot of information on these guys, but it’s all Ican make out from my notes. Besides, maybe someone will write or call me and tell me more. (I’ve learned that the more Igloss over facts and details, the more mail I seem to get.)

Ialso spoke with Blake SONOBE about the reunion. Blake noted that since parts of the terrazo have been replaced with less slippery materials (do you remember double-timing on the marble strips after arainfall?), you can now get pen sets and paperweights made out of the original mar¬ ble. We also talked about some reunion ideas such as golf for the golfers, the choice of hotels, different entertainment possibilities and so on. Blake mentioned tha the Class of ’68 brought back the Ascots singing group last year for their reunion. By the way, Blake’s been in or associated with the USAFA Chemistry Dept, for some time now. He taught there during 1976-81, then went to the University of California/Davis for his PhD dur¬ ing 1981-83, and has been back in the department teaching since 1983. His specialties are physical chemistry and organic chemistry. (It seems to me that organic chemistry is to non-chemists as differential equations is to non-mathematicians and quantum physics is to non-physicists.) Blake mentioned that Doug KIRKPATRICK’S the acting head of the USAFA Astronautics Dept., and he’ll be going PCS to Space Command (downtown) this summer. Blake also mentioned that Dick SWANSON is assigned to the Physics Dept., but he’s on sabbatical somewhere (there I go again).

That’s it for this time, folks. It’s really not too early to start thinking about the big reunion. We can make it as much fun as we’d like it to be. I know you’ve got some good ideas, so why don’t you call Mike VILBERT (719-472-2328; autovon 259-2328) or me and put in your two cents? Last¬ ly, as always, your cards and calls are most appreciated.

G.E. (Andy) Anderson, Jr.

7851 Epsilon Drive Rockville, MD 20855

Home: (301) 330-9447

Of fi ce: (703) 734-1511

Percent members: 45

Hi gang! Another Dark Ages has come and gone, and your obedient servant is looking forward to cherry blossoms in Washington —they are one of the few things untouched by our bureaucrats, political action com¬ mittees, etc. Ihope it’s as pleasant where you are.

Darrell WIMBERLY called recently. He’s living in Austin, TX and en¬ joying alovely family that includes adaughter (4) and son (7 months).

Sorry —Ididn’t get names. We discovered we had been within afew miles of one another in San Antonio in the ’70s before Darrell injured his back in the Philippines and left active duty. He obtained a“piled-higher-anddeeper” in some obscure field, then smoked up to speed in the cable TV business. In the best tradition of ’71, he decided to do it all again in the writing business. He’s writing screenplays for things we see on TV, and teaching at UT-Austin. It just goes to show what can happen to aguy who spends half his life (fully two years out of four) serving connies.

Darrell has stayed in touch with Bob LIVINGSTON and Randy HETHERINGTON. These two have apparently been joined at the hip since June ’67. 1understand they were in the same three squadrons at the Zoo, then had asuccession of assignments together in the USAF. Since leaving active duty, they’ve worked for the same airlines, and all of this without any attempt to coordinate? Sure, guys —you’ve found the mother lode out there somewhere and you haven’t told anyone. How else could Bob fly F-16s part-time, and live in Key Largo, on acanal, with a Boston Whaler docked outside his back door?

Working our way up the East Coast, Martin LEIBOUITZ has earned another oak leaf cluster for his Scribe’s Support Medal. Martin is still “toiling away” at Paine Webber in Connecticut, and reports that Helene and Clarke are well. John WAHLQUIST and Mike DZIEDZIC (spelled from memory —my spell checker just went ballistic) visited Martin recently, and they provided the accompanying picture. No details on ex¬ ploits other than jogging, lunch and the AF-Army football game. (I can hear Martin now, imitating Merle Haggard singing, “all my rowdy friends have settled down.”) At the game they ran into Skip PEPE (immortalized in an earlier column) and Larry CASADA, who is flying with Delta. Thanks for the letter and picture, Martin.

./

Mike Dziedzic, John Wahlquist and Marty

David FROSTMAN sent me aChristmas card from Boulder, where he is astrong contender for the position of CINC SKI. Frosty keeps his hand in the USAF business at the Weapons Lab at Kirtland AFB. Under cover of daylight he’s working for Ball Aerospace as abusiness development manager and occasional engineer. I’m afraid that means he’s one of Ball’s top proposal faeries —late nights and weekends and all that' stuff. He also mentioned that Larry DEROUIN is working at Ball as aQA manager. Most importantly, however. Frosty is avolunteer to help with our 20th reunion. Whoever is putting it together, take note. In the immor¬ tal words of Robin Olds, “get that man!”

Iwas particularly grateful for letters from classmates from my old squadron. Gary HUCKABAY and Terry WEIMER applied the necessary trim and rudder when Ineeded an attitude readjustment at the end of our second class year. Huck left active duty in ’76 and has become aminister serving in the Colorado Springs area. His wife, Charla, writes that they traveled the USSR on afriendship mission last year. Gary still runs (1 couldn’t catch him in ’69 and he still runs twice as far as 1do), and his schedule of teaching, counseling, writing and pastoral work fills the time not taken by Charla, Danika (15) and Ryan (13). Terry is the ops officer for the T-37 squadron at Columbus AFB, Ml. The family is reunited after the drill of changing homes, keeping Tad in his old school for awhile, etc. Diane allows as how base housing at Columbus, even for adignitary like Terry, is astep down from Randolph AFB. Ienjoyed catching up with their family’s activities, and Terry had afew items on our classmates. Mike SMITH has returned to the Pentagon after serving as commander of the student squadron at Columbus (do good and you’ll be rewarded, right Mike?). Rusty STILES is still working for Sikorski in Connecticut on the LHX project. Ted SCHOFIELD gets to fly again, and is returning

to C-141S at Norton AFB as he leaves Washington DC. Thanks for the let¬ ters, guys, and don’t forget to call if you come to D.C., okay? That goes for everybody -my basement doesn’t look exactly like Farrish, but the boxes, kids’ toys, etc. are agood simulation of the underbrush there. Your kids could be lost down there for days with my kids, and we’d see half the town before they knew we’d gone.

If I’m ever hit by atruck or forced to give up this job due to senility, you all should know where the real talent lies in our class. Paul KNOTT is averaging two letters ayear, and we’re talking serious communications here —this one was a11/3 pages, typed and single spaced. And after all that, he apologized for being so brief. What aguy. Paul is trying to hide from the Flying Fickle Finger of Fate Award (translated PCS orders). George AFB is on the list of installations to be closed, and Paul is trying to wring alast bit of stability out of his career. Rated command post con¬ trollers are adying breed, and he’s dodging one last “gotcha” from the boys at AFMPC between now and 6/9/91.

Paul writes that John HIGGINS recently moved from squadron com¬ mander of the 35TTW to ops officer of the 27TASS. He’ll stay until fall ’89, when he goes to Army War College (still crazy, after all these years). Reorganizations are drying up command slots, so some of our other guys may move. Derek DAWSON (a “senior mx commander”). Bob BROWN (562 TFTS ops officer), Frank MORGAN (35 TTS ops officer) are all possibles. Steve DEHAVEN works in the air division and flies with the German RTU. Dan LEDFORD is stationed at D-M, but getting his profi¬ ciency flying at George. Temporaries include Barry BOST who flies F-16s at Moody AFB, GA, and who showed up for two weeks of war games. J.D. BARRINGER was in last fall from Shaw AFB for asimilar romp. Harry DAVIS (also from Moody) got halfway there last winter before weather forced him home. Nice job on the letter, Paul —thanks.

You all are getting the message on change-of-address cards. Jerry O’SULLIVAN wrote, “since you bitch so much about just change-ofaddress cards, Ithought I’d write anote.” He went on to fill half of alegal sheet (cut the long way -maybe long narrow paper is in short supply in Turkey). Jerry’s at Izmir now as the 6th Allied Tactical Air Force chief of Plans, but he has been skipping around the country. Carl STEGMAN is the 7392 MUNSS commander at aplace called Eskisehir. Ihaven’t heard from Jerry since we graduated, and Iparticularly enjoyed his geopolitical commentary on life in that part of the third world.

Larry BAILEY demonstrated extraordinary skill and cunning by get¬ ting out of Grand Forks AFB, ND and going to Patrick AFB, FL just before the snows of ’88 hit. 1thought that was against SAC policy. Anyhow, Larry writes that he sees Ron RAND at Patrick (see earlier col¬ umn documenting his rise to stardom in the public affairs business), and Paul T. NIPKO (a.k.a. “Rosebud”) who is head of the weather detach¬ ment at USAF Space Division, Los Angeles AFS. I’ve been trying to find you for years, P.T.! Send me your number and I’ll give you acall.

An interesting twist on the change-of-address scene came from Mark ZABLOTNY, who provided anew address for someone else —Michael David BOLEN, to be exact, who is now living in Newport Beach, CA. Mark has taken on the herculean task of tracking down lost souls from

71.

The last of the change-of-address cards say that Mike OONK is now at Little Rock AFB as an IP; Andy MATARESE is an asst ops officer with the 76 MAS at Charleston AFB, SC; Steve SANDS is at anew address but still in Sacramento, CA; ditto Earl PINNEY in Burke, VA; and Gary WILSON is now at the 33TFW at Eglin AFB.

That’s it for this quarter. Ireally appreciated your calls and letters, and your support in making this column go. Enjoy the summer, and God bless you all.

Ed Bishop

2011 Buoy Drive Stafford, VA 22554

Home: (703) 659-8166

AV: 297-1735

Percent members: 40

■ w/

Trying to figure out what seasonal time frame to reference when writing this column is more diffi cult than trying to fi gure out time changes when calling USAFE or PACAF. We are just starting to recover from the winter blues here, but Ineed to write about the summer ac¬ tivities. By the time you read this we will have 17 years in the RAF. Happy anniversary to those of you who were married 17 years ago during June Week. Speaking of June Week, do you realize the academy now celebrates June Week in May? Is that progress or what?

Get aFriend to Join the AOG Annual Membership: $25 LIFE MEMBERSHIPS AVAILABLE

Now is the time to purchase tickets to the AF-Navy game to be held at Canoe U., 7Oct 89. Plan to attend if you will be in the area that day. We will plan to meet at acentral location for apre- or post-game party. Call me for additional details.

Obviously everyone was extremely busy this quarter as mail has been all but nonexistent and Ionly received two phone calls. Bill LOONEY called from Bitburg where he is commander of the 22nd Squadron flying F-15s. Tunes has been in Germany for six years and is coming back to ICAF this summer with his wife and two daughters. Tunes has really honed his sense of humor while overseas. He asked me if there is areasonable place to live in the D.C. area. Always akidder! Actually it depends if you use Donald Trump’s definition of reasonable or you consider West Virginia in the D.C. area.

The second call came from Hugh PARKER. Unfortunately, 1was out when Hugh called and by the time Igot back to him at Travis he was on a three-week TDY. Actually the reason 1couldn’t get back to him was because Iwas working for his brother, Scott (’73). Scott works in legislative liaison and we were preparing testimony for one of the deputy assistant secretaries.

Icalled Dale CARTER who is performing temporary bachelor duties while doing a20-week stint at Ft Belvoir in the Program Managers Course. (The only reason Iknew he was in town is because his wife, Terry, sent me acard. This was the only mail this quarter.) Dale is cur¬ rently the deputy program manager for Logistics on the Advanced Launch System out of Space Division in Los Angeles. Dale, Terry, and their three children recently moved from RAF Kemble (near RAF Fairford) where he worked at the AFLC depot. His job was to go around and design fixes for unusual aircraft damage (lightning strikes, mid-airs, etc.). Dale had asimilar job at Ramstein prior to England. After four years in Europe, Los Angeles has got to be abodacious cultural shock.

Steve DEMEL is with the Defense Logistics Agency where he is the assistant division chief of the Contracting Division. Steve was recovering from amarathon two days before which he completed in 3:36. Not bad for an old guy. Steve and Debbie have five children (ages 15 -4) and just returned from Ramstein this summer. Steve was USAFE/LG’s (Gen Campbell) exec and also worked war readiness materials.

Congratulations to Bill CRUMB and his wife who are the proud parents of abrand new baby girl. 1called to talk to Bill only to find out he was on leave for the delivery.

Dick WITTERS recently performed acivilian PCS back to the D.C. area to be the construction manager for Joseph P. Kennedy Enterprises in this area. Dick has been with Kennedy Enterprises since 1981. Dick and his wife, Francie, have two children (son 9and daughter 10). Dick’s first and only AF assignment was here at Bolling where he was the civil engineer for construction. Many of the newer buildings and housing units at Bolling were designed and or built under his supervision.

On to change-of-address cards. John GREENLAW moved from Osan AB, Korea to Holloman AFB, NM. Mike PETERSON moved from RAF Lakenheath to Plattsburgh AFB. John PEAK settled down to permanent quarters at Grissom AFB after residing in aP.O. box. Neal COYLE got out of Mather AFB before the closure list was announced and moved to Offutt AFB. Other moves include Bob KING from downtown Denver to the burbs of Englewood, and Mike HEBERT from Orlando, FL, to Kan¬ sas City, MO.

Let’s hear from you. Call or write. Donations freely accepted.

Rick Karvosky 94-378 Leleaka St. Mililani, HI 96789

Home (808) 623-2953

AV: 449-3951

Percent members: 35

Greetings on this first day of Springs. It’s sunny and hot here in Hawaii. Not much to talk about this issue. Ididn’t get any letters and I know you don’t want to hear about the life and times of Rick. Iguess the biggest news for all of us will be the LtCol Board results. The results

should be out after this issue is published so I’ll wish you all good luck. We’re the first to try out the new rating system -aren’t we lucky! Still haven’t seen my promotion recommendation. Iguess we’ll all be sitting pins and needles until the end of June.

Another news event was the tragic United Flight 811. Ireceived acall that night about the flight. Some of my folks had to respond. Our Fire Dept guys were the ones tasked with passenger evacuation. They towed the plane to the far end of our ramp for the investigation team. They are now repairing the plane so it can be flown to California. We’ve been assisting them with utility hookups and shop support. It was atragic acci¬ dent but looking at the plane up close you can only praise the crew for get¬ ting it back on the ground safely.

on ex-

Iforgot to mention in the last issue about Ray SWIDER. He’s the ecutive officer to the wing commander. We’ve been talking alot about the LtCol Board. He enjoys the job and still flies with the 9th Airborne Com¬ mand Control Squadron. Ireceived some change-of-address cards. Howard MITCHELL to Centerville, OH; Don OTTINGER just moved to anew address at Maxwell; Jim VOGLER to Ponte Vedra Beach, FL; Carl FOERSTER (Sheryl) to Washington, DC; Jeff BLANCHETTE to Spangdahlem AB, Germany -thanks for the kinds words Jeff; and George KEHIAS to Wright-Pat as the environmental program manager for HQ AFLC -good luck George -AFLC should keep you busy for years to come! I’ll look you up when Icome back to AFIT for atwo-week school this August.

Well, that’s it for this issue. Please send some letters. My next deadline is 21 September. I’m sure many of you can at least drop aline. Do it as soon as you get this issue -don’t procrastinate! Again, good luck to those of us up for LtCol. Enjoy your summer, but WRITE!

Mike Carter

2263 Ptarmigan Lane

Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Home: (719) 593-1480

AV: 259-2549

Percent members: 33

Starters: Well, believe it or not this is REALLY going to be ashort col¬ umn. The latest weather report from Colorado shows abeautiful spring day (the date of this writing is 28 Mar) with ahigh around 60 and alow of 34. Really anice time of year here in the Springs. We’ll probably have another bit of snow or two before it’s all over but these spring days are worth it all. The cadets are off on Spring Break and there’s an opportuni¬ ty for acouple of days of leave. If it hadn’t been for that, there wouldn’t have been an article this month.

For all of you who have held it against me all of these years for staying in Colorado, well the worm has turned. We’ve received orders for Mont¬ gomery, AL to Gunter AFB. We’ve been sentenced, Imean assigned, to a four-year tour at the Air Force Small Computer and Office Automation Service Organization. I’ll be heading the group and for those of you who know me, this is indeed adream job. We actually sought the assignment and curtailed my tenure tour because we really like Montgomery and the opportunity to affect the way in which small computers are used in the Air Force for the next few years is right up my alley. We’ve got the house on the market and hopefully sold by the time you get to read this article. If you’re in Montgomery after 15 June, then give us acall. Don’t forget that my full name is Edward M. Carter, if you try to look us up.

Enough silliness here, so let’s get on with it. All Ihave to report on are one letter, three changes of address and an old edition of the Dirty Dozen Family (DDF) Newsletter from Craig ANDERSON. Ipromised Craig that Iwould publish it in this issue and I’m really glad that Ileft this one over from last time because 1) Igot scolded for too much copy in the last issue and 2) Idon’t have alot for this issue.

Change-of-Address Cards: Our first card comes from Tully BROWN. He and Patricia are taking afew months off for Armed Forces Staff Col¬ lege at Norfolk. Their move was from San Jose, CA. Tully started in the winter class, so should be about through by the time you read about it. A card Iwouldn’t usually use but will because Ineed some filler comes from Tony and Cheryl BROZENA. It seems that either the AOG had their ad¬ dress wrong or they moved down the street. Their move was from 1300 to 1213 Georgia St. in Albuquerque, NM. The final card is not achange but asimple update from Rick BARCLAY. He is now residing in Upland, CA. That’s all for the change-of-address cards. Iguess that winter just isn’t abusy time for moves but that alot of us will be on the road this summer.

Mailbag: Well it seems that some of us never change and that indeed is the case for Chris CAMPBELL. He sent apicture in February of aEuro¬ pean Mini-Reunion that occurred in October. The folks in the picture

European Mini-reunion

were all stationed at or around Ramstein. The reunion was at anice little French restaurant in Kaiserslautern and seems to have been abig The gathering included acouple of TDYers to the area so I’ll reveal them shortly.

success.

The folks at the table are from left going clockwise: Chris CAMP¬ BELL, Gary GARNER (TDY), Norm FRANK (TDY), Doug and Ann DILDY, Kirk and Sherri STANT, Tom and Becky PYRCH, Greg and Monica FINDLAY (the instigators of the gathering), and Ed and Marianne WHALEN. Chris also reports that the following folks are also near Ramstein; Rick and Gail CLEVELAND, Brian and Linda BADGER, Dave and Marion MOODY, Dave and Kenna RUSK, Jake and Laurie BORAH, Steve HANSEN, and Jim and Jane SLATON. Remember that the information is abit dated so afew of these folks may already have moved again. Thanks to Chris for agreat bit of information and asuper picture.

Other Sources: Here’s the DDF report from Craig. The news was from their winter edition of the newsletter and started out with “Ho, Ho, Ho” so again some of the information is not so fresh and may have changed a bit. The first news is that Nick and Joanne PUZAK have moved to Boulder, CO and are planning to stay there forever. Nick works for Ball Aerospace. The LYONS family (Denny and Pam) have been pretty busy. They have made their 12th move in 14 years and Denny isn’t even in the Air Force anymore. Denny accepted an offer with aNorth Carolina firm, DNS Electronic Materials, and relocated to Cary, NC. In addition, they added their fourth child to their family. Chris and Gretchen REAMY ad¬ ded their third with the birth of Philip Ryan. In addition, Ted and Vicki MACEY also filled their standard issue of three with asecond daughter, Jacquelyn Denise.

JJ and Cynthia ROMANO are staying put in Las Vegas for awhile longer and will complete their fifth year there. Dave and Tai Lee DALEY are on their way to Bonn as an assistant air attache. Riley STEVENS is flying with American Airlines and is based in Chicago. However, they are remaining in Monument, CO until Cindy finishes her doctorate in the summer of 1990. Craig is going back to school at George Washington University for acouple of years to specialize in environmental law. It seems that the Air Force has gotten itself into some hot water over toxic waste and has to clean up its act (Craig’s bad joke, not mine this time). His job will be to learn how to fend off lawsuits while the change is occur¬ ring. Good Luck!

Final Shots: As always, Ipromised ashort article and wrote an en¬ cyclopedia. Best of wishes to all of you on the road this summer. For those of you who get to stay put, remember those of us who don’t. Again, keep those cards and letters coming. I’ll publish my new address as soon as Iknow it, but don’t let that stop you. The AOG always knows where I am so you can send your letters through them. May God bless you all and keep you safe through the summer. I’ll write again in about three months and let you know about all the other moves folks have made this summer. Mike.

Maj. Jeff Hackett (USAFR)

1825 E. Jeanine Drive

Tempe, AZ 85284

Home: (602) 831-9439

Work: (602) 891-2734

Percent members: 31 on

NOW YOU KNOW WHY YOU SLEPT SO MUCH BETTER THOSE LAST TWO WEEKS OF MARCH. As the altered byline suggests, this article is the product of alean, mean, military fighting machine and not sniveling overpaid contractor weenie; I’m on my Annual Tour. But if you note agreater sense of order/discipline in my writing this time, do not attribute that to anything other than the fact that I’m working on this in the AFIT computer lab and not at home (no “inspirational” beverages served here).

THE “TOTAL FORCE” DIDN’T HAVE IT’S ACT TOGETHER ON THIS ONE. Iwas pretty charged up when Isaw in the Register of Grads that 14 of our classmates have addresses here in the Dayton area; thought this would be aperfect chance to get the first-hand word. But noooooo, because of TDYs, vacations, and the fact that the editor needs this the middle of my first week here 1haven’t spoken to any of the boys yet. Ac¬ tually, Greg SHERIDAN’S TDY may have increased my efficiency; in talking with his wife, Renee, Iwas also talking to Denny BROOKS’ sister (two updates for the price of one). Renee said that Greg was TDY because Greg is always TDY! He’s the SPACECOM liaison guy here at WrightPat and apparently spends alot of time meeting with his SPACECOM brethern in other locations. Amore normal (whatever that is) life should return this summer as Greg heads on to ACSC at Maxwell; from there they expect to return to the C-5 world (and more TDY!). The bad news is that Denny was medically retired about two years ago due to complica¬ tions from achildhood back injury. The good news is that he and Leslie are back in Colorado Springs and that Denny’s been able to pursue one of his deep interests as an artificial intelligence consultant to some com¬ panies out in California. Leslie’s amajor in the Air Force Reserve (I don’t know excactly what she does, but trust me, all USAFR majors are serving in pivital positions at the razor’s edge of democracy). Hopefully there will be more on the WPAFB gang in the next edition. If Ihave to I’ll go to every bar in the Dayton area to search them out.

MY MAILMAN HAS APPLIED FOR UNEMPLOYMENT

BENEFITS: Two late Christmas cards, one letter, and the change-ofaddress cards from the AOG. You guys (which is not to exclude wives, as we occasionally need to hear the unembelished truth from areliable source) aren’t exactly knocking yourselves out. And we may as well disconnect the phone while we’re at it; nobody’s called.

John and Jill CHARLTON’S Christmas card arrived the day Imailed out the last article so they get top billing. They’re in Newport at the water¬ proof version of Command and Staff School; happy, nice break, lots of history, kids doing well. John told me they’re ready to move back “West” but it looks like he’ll wind up in the Far East (unaccompanied: Osan AB, Korea) and Jill will head back to midwest (Saginaw) with the kids. The guys at MPC must not be geography majors. John went to Newport from TAC IG and was able to pass on afew updates: Tug McGRAW has left Langley for Alaska (F-15), Rick ODEGARD did likewise to Okinawa, and poor Don CUNNINGHAM was left to uphold what I’m sure was a very fi ne 75er standard.

I’m not really certain that Brian GOMES’s letter was related to the Christmas holiday, it came alittle closer to Valentine’s Day. But we’ll give him the benefit of the doubt since he had such agood reason; he and Sandi were alittle busy with the arrival of their third child in November. That, and Brian’s job with Piedmont/USAir, and his flying KC-lOs with the Reserves, and the other two kids (two and five years old). All of this top of Charlotte getting an NBA franchise! Imean how’s Brian sup¬ posed to keep up?

CAN YOU PICK OUT THE ’74 GRAD IN THIS PICTURE? Scott SMITH mentioned that the individual “front and center” in the photo below is aderelict ’74 grad who’s on the staff at ACSC. Of course we all knew that from the posture, the “hairs” and the finger in the nose; 1mean, hey, those guys trained us! Scott, Jan and the kids came to Maxwell from USAFA where Scott was teaching four different courses including everyone’s all-time favorite, “Waldo F. Dumbsquat 101 World History.” They’ll be off to McChord and back to ’141s when school’s over in June. Just to reinforce the idea that he is a“fuzzy-studies” academician, Scott then gave me the following 16 capsules on “the other guys in the picture;” please note that, unless one of you grew an extra head, there are 17 other people in the picture! Mr. “X” please write me soon.

In no particular order: Rick LEWALLEN, his wife Alice and two children, came from SOF C2 at Scott AFB, but didn’t have aclear vision of where he’ll be going in June. Lee COLBURN came from aremote at Kunsan AB, Korea (F-16s). He, his wife, Jeanine, and son will be staying on at Maxwell where he’ll be on ACSC faculty. The GRADYs (Kevin, Carolyn and Lauren) arrived from Fort Hood (ALO) but will happily be getting back to the F-15 upon graduation. It may have something to do with the PCS costs involved in moving afamily with five children, but whatever, Jim DILL, Joette and “the group” will be staying on in Alabama where Jim will be on the ACSC faculty. They just came from SPACECOM at Colorado Springs.

The faculty will also include Jim HEALD, ex-F-15E Flight Test WSO (Edwards). Jim’s married (Pat) and has two boys. Dave KOVACH and his two boys arrived from Randolph (MPC) but don’t know where they’ll be going yet. Doug MILLER, like Scott, came to ACSC from the faculty at USAFA. (Doug probably knew how many people were in the picture; he taught Mech!) It’ll be overseas for the Millers (Doug, Allison and two children); C-130s at Clark AB, PL Larry FARISS will also be returning to the “drone zone” (C-130s at Dyess). He and Michelle and three sons came to ACSC from Randolph (MPC). And more cotton in the ears for Ed WILCOCK who came from an exchange tour in Aussie C-130s and will be staying with the airplane (stateside) following ACSC. Ed’s married (Jen¬ nifer) with two little ones.

Jerry LEVESQUE, his wife Sylvia, and their boys came in from A-lOs at Bentwaters but don’t know exactly what their fate will be. It’ll be off to the Pentagon for Steve and Sharon DURESKY, and their three kids after ACSC. They arrived from Misawa AB where Steve flew F-16s. Mario MELLUM, his wife Kim, and kids Briana, Brittany, Bethany, and Brackin (is his name really Barlo Bellum?) came in from flying Tornados at RAF Honington and they’re probably headed for F-llls here in the states. Pete LOSI, wife (Eileen) plus two kids: in from HQ MAC. ..out to C-141s at McGuire. John LOUKS will be another ACSC faculty member come June. He, Susan and their two boys recently escaped McConnell AFB, KS.

Because Phil GRONSETH came from the Department of Physics at USAFA, I’m sure he not only knows how many people are in the picture; he could probably calculate the group’s total gravitational mass increase

as afunction of diminishing folicle activity and plot it over the period of time since June 4th, 1975. Knowing all that (and whatever he learns at ACSC) will no doubt help Phil, Holly and their two kids get through their upcoming B-52 assignment in Guam. TAG is keeping Kevin and Dorothy SMITH guessing about where they and their two girls will be after ACSC; they were previously at Luke (F-16s).

HEARD BUT NOT SEEN. Scott couldn’t get the following folks in front of the camera (or is one of them “Mr. X”?). Neither Buzz MASTERS nor Ron BEAN know what lies in store for them after ACSC. Buzz, Gere, and their kids came from Shaw; while Ron, Alice and their daughter came from Charleston AFB. A1 VAN EPPS is preparing the way for all the guys coming to the ACSC faculty. By the way Al, all these guys noted in their letters that they thought it was way too easy and that there wasn’t enough homework! Ralph RHYE is also making it easy on the ACSC crew by keeping the water hot and the streets smooth; he’s in CE at Maxwell.

flies with the 89 MAW. But not for long. Randy will soon start language and diplomatic training in preparation for his upcoming job as assistant air attache to Thailand. Randy passed on that Steve RIEWERTS has moved from flying VIPs around at the 89th to scheduling VIP airlift at the Pentagon. Jeff should have given Steve acall; maybe he could have avoided the commercial flight home.

Was on the third floor of Fairchild afew weeks ago and saw Phil SCHLENER (Elena) walking out of alectinar. Phil was here TDY from his KC IP job at Castle. The occasion was aconference for the project of¬ ficers worldwide who will be running the Operation CONUS program this summer for cadets at their respective bases. Had lunch with Phil; he is the training flight commander for the operational tanker squadron at Castle but will soon move over as an instructor in the CCTS. He is enjoying the tour which has got to be quite achange from his previous one —which was teaching flying to students at the Peruvian Air Force Academy.

‘It’s

TO USE THE AIR FORCE TERM, I’M EIGMO! And besides, it wound up with pretty good bulk. “Thank You” to those illustrious few who contributed. I’ll once again spare you/me the pain of the C-O-A cards. And so, with asteely look, achiseled jaw, and major’s leaves a-gleamin’. I’ll return to the defense of our nation (for the next nine days anyway). Let me check this out. ..“Attention,” “At Ease, Yourself Up” (and mail it to me), “Carry On,' Think,” and all that. How’d Ido? Oh yea, “Dismissed.

Kurt Klingenberger

1801 N. Tejon St.

Colorado Springs, CO 80907

Home: (719) 635-4843

AV: 259-2270

Percent members: 33

‘Write

Ijust want to say that you guys are amazing. You must be telepathetic. The Checkpoints editor, Tom Kroboth, sent anote to us “class scribes” telling us that some of the class news articles were getting way too long. I looked through the last issue and decided that Iwas among the guilty. It was clear that Iwould have to put in ashorter article this time. AND

YOU GUYS CAME THROUGH! In my time of need for no news you sent virtually no letters, made no phone calls, and didn’t stop in to see me. Aheartfelt thanks. So this will be ashorter article after all.

An update on some of the San Antonio boys. Joe SMITH (Harriet) says he has apicture of him in akilt but it is not the “right” picture. When he gets the “right” picture he will send it to me for publication. Brian SUTTER (Linda) is on the list of folks going to Norfolk this summer to Armed Eorces Staff College. (Maybe he will be my sponsor, since I’ll be following him there in January.) I’m sure there are lots of you on the re¬ cent schools list so Ieagerly await news of upcoming moves.

There are several here at USAFA with upcoming ISS slots. One is Glenn VERA (Denise). Glenn has been the operations officer in the Academy nav squadron (50th ATS) for the last couple years trying to keep squadron commanders out of trouble. Now Ifeel good for Glenn because going off to school is anice reward for his hard work here. But I also feel bad for Glenn because apparently he has no friends. For nearly three years now Ihave been asking him if he had any news from classmates (phone calls, Christmas cards, etc.). And he NEVER has. So please, when Glenn gets to Montgomery someone talk to him and let him know you still care.

Tim CANTWELL (Nancy), currently the superintendent’s aide, leaves this summer also for service school. Tim is going to check out how the Navy does things at their ISS in Newport, Rhode Island. Other people leaving the Academy soon are Terry NEWTON (Karen) and Neil CAHOON in the Math Department. Terry is also going to Maxwell this summer and Neil is going to fly for Northwest Airlines.

Neil may run into Ray WILD (Cathy) in the Northwest pilots’ lounge. I saw Ray yesterday at Pete Field base ops as Iawaited the start of aT-43 mission and he walked through the flight planning area in his “green bag.” This was in his role as C-130 aircraft commander for the local Reserve unit. His other life is as aNorthwest pilot which means that, acouple times amonth, Ray commutes up to Minneapolis. Ray estimates that there are about 35 classmates flying for Northwest alone.

Jeff LARSEN (Cyndy) used his spring break from Princeton to come back to the Poli Sci Department as asenior observer for the 31st Academy Assembly. You may remember the Assembly as the annual student con¬ ference discussing some topic of vast importance and with lots of kids with long hair from other “real” colleges. This year’s Assembly was on NATO which is Jeffs area of study. Jeff came out here on ahop from Andrews; the pilot of the C-20 was Randy CHANG (Lynn) who currently

Talked to Brad MOFFETT (Beth) today. Probably lucky to catch him in the office since Beth is expecting little Moffett number two soon. Real soon. Any minute. Brad mentioned some of the folks he has seen around Offutt recently. Bill JOHNSON (Robin) is in the Force Studies Division in the headquarters. Tom TRAINOR (Deborah) is in the JSTPS. (You all have done ACSC by correspondence now so you know what those acronyms mean.) Gary LORENZEN (Deborah), who recently left the USAFA Physics Department, is now at Offutt in the 55 SRW flying RC-135S. Another recent addition to the recon wing is Marc SOUTIERE (Judy). Marc returned last month from ayear-long tour in Egypt putting his civil engineering backround to use helping the Egyptians build an F-16 base. And finally, Greg WHALEY (Bonnie) is soon leaving his job as the SAC chief of staffs exec to go to B-ls at Dyess.

That is it for class news this time. Thanks for helping me keep this short. But you can stop holding back now on all your news —Ishould be ready for another long one next issue.

Changes of Address: Joe WYSOCKl (Nancy) left New Mexico for seafood in Norfolk; John RHOADES is also in Norfolk after atour in North Pole, AK. Stan KASPRZYK (Mary) has left Valencia, CA for a new address in Auburn, WA. Jim CADY (Janet) is now in California as a ’141 pilot at Norton. Roger and Sandy YAUCHZY have moved from Lowville, NY to Sumter, SC. Tony GAJESKI is now in O’Fallon, IL, after spending time in Dayton. Mike KELLY (GeorgianaBeverly) has moved within town in Alexandria, LA; Bruce LAMBERT (Cindy) has done the same thing at Randolph. George GUTIERREZ moved within Texas -from Austin to Dallas. Pete TRUMP (Dixie) left Carswell for Offutt and the JSTPS. And Kent ESBENSHADE (Cheryl) is back in SAC B-52s in Guam.

Tax Rule Affects ’77/76 Medically-Retired Grads

(Editor’s note. Rick Spott, ’77, sent aletter to the Class of 1977 scribe, Lou Michels, of interest to those graduates of the Classes of 1976 and 1977 who are medically retired.)

Dear Lou:

Icame across some information that may be of some interest to members of the Class of ’77 and ’76 regarding medical retirements. Without going into pages of detail. I’ll try to explain what hap¬ pened.

Current tax law states that anyone who came on active duty after September, 1975 and is subsequently medically retired will have their disability retirement pay fully taxed. That is to say, their retirement pay is fully taxable. There is aloophole, however, in that anyone who was subject to abinding written agreement prior to Sept. 75 will fall under the old law, which provides for tax-free disability retirement pay. Since our class became obligated to the Air Force at the start of Call To Quarters the day before classes of our junior year, which was August 1975, we are now considered to have been subject to the binding written agreement exception men¬ tioned above. What that means is any members of the Class of ’ll or ’76 (i.e., those who became obligated to the Air Force prior to September 1975 and were commissioned after September 1975) who have been medically retired should be receiving their medical disability retirement pay tax free. This is the retirement pay they receive from the Air Force, not the VA (the VA disability compen¬ sation is already tax free).

There are at least adozen members of the Class of ’77 to whom this might apply. Any of those who have been medically retired

’77/’76 Tax Ruling (Continued)

and are receiving disability retirement pay from the Air Force should be receiving it tax free. This finding was aresult of over 18 months of work on the part of the Air Force Accounting and Finance Center (with considerable prodding by yours truly). Unless 1misunderstood them, mine was the first case to have been so ruled.

Keep up the good work with the newsletter. 1hope this informa¬ tion might be helpful to others.

Sincerely,

Rick

John J. “Lou” Michels, Jr.

140 Melmar Drive

Prattville, AL 36067

Home: (205) 293-2802

AV: 875-2802

Percent members: 31

Greetings from my new assignment at Maxwell AFB. As you know, I was moved last issue but didn’t know where. This is it. I’m teaching at the JAG school here at Maxwell, as part of Air University. You know, them that can’t do teach. So here Iam. The house is in shambles as Iwrite this, but any of you in the area, come on down.

PERSONAL ENCOUNTERS: Used to think that all roads led to Ran¬ dolph. Wrong. They all lead to Maxwell. At some point Ithink everyone gets to sample the simple pleasures of Montgomery. I’ve run into several folks already who tell me that Ishould have been here ayear ago when lots of people were here. Mark and Patty LINDSLEY are here, Mark put¬ ting in some hours at ACSC and getting ready to head back to F-llls when he finishes. They have two great kids and Sonia and Ispent aplea¬ sant and well-needed evening with them several weeks ago. Also ran into Ron MORGAN over at the library here. Ron, aJAG, is also at ACSC and will depart in June for appellate defense work in D.C. Will have amore complete update on the class here by summer edition time.

NOTES AND LETTERS: Got abunch of letters expressing sympathy for the situation with Evan. All is well now, he’s recovering nicely, and we hope will be off the portable heart monitor by summer. Iespecially hope that, since Iseem to end up lugging the thing around all the time. Lynn SCOTT’s wife, Cynthia, wrote to tell me that Lynn is well into his doc¬ torate at Texas and studying hard. From what Cynthia said he’s doing very well, but the course entails atremendous amount of reading and writing. Bill LORD (Cindy) is at Armed Forces Staff College along with Rick PERRAULT and Jeff SMITH. Bill notes that the place is great and he’s enjoying himself tremendously. Wait ’til the beaches open up, folks. Lisa BRATTON wrote to say that Mike is out of the blue womb now and operating his own computer consulting firm in Dallas. She says that Mike is really enjoying being able to go into work wearing shorts and aT-shirt. And he probably looks better than Ido in blue polyester. Lorrae WACHDORF (apparently only afew of the men in our class can write) dropped me aline telling us that they arrived safely in Germany where Art will work as an air liaison officer with the Army. Lorrae reports that while the Army base is the pits, the area surrounding Wurzberg is gorgeous. Hope you had agood Christmas, Art.

That’s about it from the mailbag this time around. Sorry about the brevity, but I’m sure some inputs are still catching up with me from Kadena. Please note the new mailing address and let me know what’s go¬ ing on. Oh yeah, and now most of you can reach me by phone too. So keep in touch. Until next time, see ya.

f'- „ r.

Greg Postulka

811 Ridgewood Cove West Niceville, FL 32578

Home: (904) 897-4476

AV: 872-8805

Percent members: 34

No news is no news. Having been caught with no letters, no cards, no phone calls, no pictures, ashort suspense, being TDY, and no word pro¬ cessor (but having agreat attitude), this is the sorriest attempt at class news to date.

But, with new major rank, summer PCS, and assorted activities. I’m confident your news will flow soon. If you can’t write about yourself, at least tell astory about your friends. Hope to hear from you soon.

Robert M. McGreal

421 Maple Ridge

Bossier City, LA 71111

Home: (318) 742-6445

AV: 781-2394

Percent members: 28

I’m still writing from Bossier City, Louisiana and I’m still flying KC-lOs for SAC. Since my last article, my family has grown. 1have two boys now; the youngest one, Craig, is about ayear old. 1recently put some of the taxpayer’s money to good use when 1took aKC-10 up to Seattle to watch the Final Four. The flight was designated as an off station training flight. And of course we did do some things that we can’t do here at home station, like drink Ranier beer, so the four-day trip wasn’t atotal “boon¬ doggle.”

Jeff FRANKLIN (Gerry) and their two boys are still at Barksdale also. Jeff decided to stay in the Air Force so he was recently named the chief of KC-10 Stan/Eval. And with the bonus money he received, he bought a new bass boat -$48,000 buys alot of bass boat. Larry SANDOVAL (Tammy) is also still here. Larry, acrossover from helicopters, is just finishing his checkout as aKC-10 aircraft commander. Steve SAGUE (Barbi) and Scott CHIMELSKI (Dayna) are still here, both pulling alert as Buff drivers.

Several other ’79ers recently left Barksdale -none of them to other Air Force assignments. John FAGOT (Cindy) flies for Delta out of Dallas. He still resides in the local Barksdale area because he flies part time with the KC-10 Reserve unit here. He gets as many KC-10 hours amonth as I do but works only five days amonth. I’m missing something. Mike FOUNTAIN (Tricia) is now flying DC-lOs for American. AKC-10 to a DC-10, how’s that for an easy transition into civilian life. All he did was change his clothes and his hair style. Bev BARGE (Mary) starts with Delta in April. Bev, Mary and their two boys will make Tulsa, OK their home.

Mike BOLDOSSER (Karen) is riding in the back end of aWC-135 at McClellan AFB, CA. He’s an operations officer in charge of the many varied and many classified experiments that go on behind the cockpit door. Mike says it’s alot of TDY but he loves it. Tom STARK (Anna) and his ever-growing family (he has four kids and counting) is still at Seymour-Johnson as aKC-10 IP. 1saw Tom recently when he stopped by enroute to a10-day shopping trip to the Pacific courtesy of SAC. Iwas returning from an overseas trip myself in December when Iran into, I should say talked to, Don LUSTIG (Rhonda). While coasting in over Northern Canada after atrip to Europe, Inoticed that my copilot (a good aircraft commander always blames things on the copilot) had misplaced the approach plates for our destination, Dover AFB. In fact, the copilot had misplaced the approach plates for every base in the United States. We heard aMAC call sign talking to the Canadian controllers so Iradioed them and got the needed information for arrival at Dover. The guy who gave me the info was Don LUSTIG. “Cooperate and Graduate” —10 years later it still works. Don is still flying ’141s at Charleston as is Mark STEARNS (Darcey). Randy HELMS (Donna), our man at the point for the reunion, will be flying ’141s at Charleston also, starting next summer. He’s still an AOC right now and he has to stay that way until after the re¬ union.

Other classmates residing in Colorado that we’ll all see at the reunion include: Pete HAYS (Deena), teaching poli sci; Bill BARRY (Monica), also teaching poli sci, Bill and Monica have anine-month old boy; Bob STEFFAN (Debbie), same job as Pete and Bill; and Phil DAVIS (Nora), same job as Pete, Bill and Bob. Phil and Nora adopted ababy girl last summer. Gerry SMITH (Judy) and Tom GREEN (Annette) are also teaching at USAFA. Chuck BEAVER is also at the Academy as aTG-7A Terrazzo Falcon Flight Commander. With ajob title like that, he ought to be working at the Pentagon. Gary BURG (Lexi) is also at the Zoo as an AOC as is Bob EDMUNDS (Ann). Doug LINGENFELDER is teaching comp sci. I’m sure you all remember Billy Burroughs. Doug is doing such abang-up job that the dean, Gen Royer, is sitting in on Doug’s classes so he can figure out how to teach the course next semester —at least that’s what the dean told Doug. Other Coloradoans include: Jim REGAN

(Tanya), Paul DIAMOND (Bonnie) and Ted NEEDHAM -all non¬ blue-suiters. Ihear Jim and Ted did alot of legwork on arranging hotel accommodations for the reunion. Another non-blue-suiter in the C-Springs area is Jeff GOWEN. Jeff is agreen-suiter, he’s an “Army grunt” stationed at Fort Carson.

Michael Thomas Vitullo

Moving to the outskirts of the Colorado Springs metroplex area, John VITULLO and his wife of 10 years, the former Debbie Maddox, wel¬ comed their first child, Michael. John is working at CSOC (the Con¬ solidated Space Operations Center). John also passed on that Mark, Vicki, and Skyler HILBURN are finishing up Test Pilot School at Ed¬ wards and are heading for F-16s at Eglin. Moving further East, Ben OSLER is at the Computer Center at Wright-Pat. Mark and Betsy (’80) PIMENTEL have two children and still reside in Lorton, VA —home of the Virginia State Penitentiary. Mark recently bought avideo recording business. Best of luck Mark.

Ireceived an assortment of change-of-address cards from the AOG concerning our class, so I’ll just pass on the information as is. A1 SHOPSHIRE moved to San Antonio, TX —change-of-address card still called him captain, so he must still be in, probably fl ying for ATC at Randolph, unless he’s acaptain for Southwest. Scott VAN VALKENBURG is now residing in Tucson. Jim WHITE moved from Fort Worth to Bedford, TX. Kevin SCHMIDT, one of the famous SCHMIDT twins, moved from Washington State, his boyhood home, to Crescent Springs, KY —could be working for UPS. Joe DlFRANCESCO’s address changed from APO San Francisco to Hat fi eld, PA —sounds like aPCS to the civilian world. Scott GRUNWALD (Debbie) moved from one Edwards AFB address to another —he must have gotten afollow-on assignment to Edwards after Test Pilot School (TPS).

Speaking of TPS, Horse NEICE (Leslie) is going through the program right now. Mario BUDA (Jan) now lives at Beale AFB, CA where he flies U-2s. Mr Nick BERDEGUEZ now lives in Charlotte, NC and Steve LOONEY PCSd to Hahn AB, Germany. Mike BRADLEY (Patti) moved from San Diego to Glendale, AZ. Scott JENSEN (Deborah), son Eric and daughter Jacqueline now live in Madison, W1 where Scott flies for the Guard. Regie HOLMES now lives in Dayton, OH. And finally, Jeff LIEDERBACH now resides in Ypsilanti, MI, asuburb of Detroitcould he be flying for Northwest?

Afew words about the reunion. From what Ihear on the streets and in the bars, our reunion is going to have agreat turnout. So if you’re still thinking about going, stop thinking (after 10 years in the Air Force, that comes naturally for many of us) and make plans. The Reunion Commit¬ tee continues to do an outstanding job of making all the necessary ar¬ rangements. Putting out that list of M.I.A.s was aparticularly good idea. Ihave information about three of the M.I.A.s myself. There was an un¬ confirmed report that Mike HOOBLER is studying aero through AFIT at Wright-Pat. And areliable source has spotted Chuck TODAR wandering about the Dallas-Ft Worth Airport in aDelta uniform. Also, there was a possible sighting of Jeff PRICE at Beale AFB, CA. Two last words on the reunion —BE THERE! See you in September.

Don’t miss your magazine. Send your new address now! If you are not amember we invite you to join your AOG.

Life memberships available.

Phil Prosseda

2601 Zephyr Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Home: (719) 548-1145

AV: 259-3080

Percent members: 34

Face to Face. Did you ever have one of those strmnge chance meetings and say to yourself, “Wow, that was really weird?” That is exactly what happened to me the day after Christmas in the Dallas-Fort Worth airport. 1was traveling to New York City for an economic conference and 1had 30 minutes to change planes in Dallas. The person 1was traveling with wanted to check some football scores before we boarded. So we ducked our heads into the nearest airport lounge and started watching the televi¬ sion set intensely. Out of the corner of my eye, Inoticed someone looking at me with apuzzled expression. As 1turned to leave this person came up to me and said, “Aren’t you Phil Prosseda?” Of course 1am Phil Pros¬ seda, but who was this guy? He didn’t have the standard haircut and he had aMagnum mustache to boot. Before 1could say anything, he said, “I’m Mike McLOUGHLlN.” This wasn’t the same Mike McLoughlin 1 knew. He looked like he had been working out quite abit and if 1were matched up against him in boxing class, he surely would have had the up¬ per hand. Mike is doing fine. He is working for McDonnell Douglas fly¬ ing NKC-135S out of Oklahoma. Apparently, he is teaching squids the fine art of air refueling.

After my trip to New York, Iwas able to stop by McGuire AFB, NJ to attend aNew Year’s party, Iran into Ray and Andrea HARRIS and we downed afew beers together. Ray is now navigating for the Reserves in his spare time and devoting his days to building his client base. As one of our classes’ newest stockbrokers, Ray was up on all the latest financial news. Ray and Andrea bought anice Victorian home in Mount Holly, NJ and spend all their spare cash on good electricians.

More recently, 1had the pleasure of sitting in the back of Kurt GREEN’S T-41 to observe his instructional techniques. Kurt’s student, the Cadet Wing vice commander, did an outstanding job. Unfortunately, the weather combined with steep turns, traffic pattern stalls, and power-on stalls didn’t make for the most pleasant observation sortie. Kurt kept ask¬ ing me, “Is everything OK back there?” Fortunately, we all survived without incident. On the ground, Kurt told me that he and Sharon are ex¬ pecting another child in the spring.

Dan SMITH, who is also aT-41 instructor, decided to hang up his wings and pursue alife in the corporate world. Dan has been hired by MCI as amajor accounts manager. Dan made some interesting comments on the corporate interview process and is currently updating his wardrobe before he enters big business. Dan, Julie, Trevor and Britany will be leav¬ ing USAFA sometime this summer bound for Piscatawy, NJ. Dan in¬ formed me that we did have at least one classmate enjoying tall cold ones on white sandy beaches this winter. Apparently, Jeff RICHARD is flying the Caribbean routes for American Airlines. Dan also said that Nick DONAHUE is getting ahead start on his post-USAF retirement job. Nick flies KC-lOs at March and substitutes for high school teachers in his spare time.

Sara, Alicia and Jennifer Milligan

Chuck and Annette MILLIGAN welcomed their third daughter, Sara, into their family in October of last year. 1am printing apicture of their three daughters: Sara, Alicia, and Jennifer. Chuck says that he is lucky because all of his daughters look like Annette so they’ll be cute. Chuck and Annette will be leaving USAFA this summer for Texas A&M. Chuck

plans to live the life of an Aggie while he pursues adoctoral degree in con¬ struction. Chuck passed on the following information. Dan GILL stopped by USAFA on asquadron sponsor trip. Dan is flying F-16s in Georgia and he and Glory have atoddler named after Dan. Mike GLENN is acivilian computer geek out in Southern California. Mike married sometime in the second half of ’88.

An unnamed source passed on the following information. Jim ROSS is astock broker in Orange County, CA. Jim just upgraded from Merrill Lynch to Payne Webber. Tom JEE is aconsultant for adefense con¬ sulting firm in Los Angeles, CA. K.S. CAREY is on the senior DOV crew for the Peacekeeper at F.E. Warren AFB. (It sounds like he is basically running the place.) John LEECH finally completed his commitment for his master’s in computer science. Along with his master’s in operations research, he shouldn’t have any problems finding ajob if he decides to get out. Rumor also has it that Diane LANGMADE left NASA and went back to Phoenix to run an air conditioning company. Iguess there isn’t much of adifference in working with liquid nitrogen or liquid freon. Finally, Doug and Donna HARRINGTON had their second child and first son, John Douglas, Jr., on the 26th of February.

Phone ins. Iwas sitting in the T-41 pilot instructor training office listening to Steve RASSMUSSEN (’79) bemoan the fact that his sponsor at his new base had not sent him any information. At that very moment, in walks the admin sergeant with apackage for Steve. Of course it was the sponsor package and it looked like it had come from Sheppard AFB, TX to the Academy via Keflavik, Iceland. (Federal Express watch out; here comes the Air Force distribution system.) Anyway, scrawled across the upper lefthand corner of the package in large red letters was the name Bill WELLS. Iwondered if this was the same Bill Wells with whom 1went to pilot training. Steve immediately picked up the phone and called Bill. It turns out it was the same Bill Wells. Bill was flying F-16s at Hahn AB, Germany and then he decided to follow in the footsteps of our T-38 flight commander Gary F. (Big O) Occhuizzo. Bill is now aT-38 flight com¬ mander at Sheppard. Bill and Lourie have been at Sheppard for three years and it’s time to move. Bill is hoping to get ajob with the Air Na¬ tional Guard in Klamath Falls, OR, as an F-16 instructor. Bill said that Curt ELKIN and Steve PRETESKA are also at Sheppard.

Karl GREENHILL gave me acall to update the whereabouts of some of our classmates. Karl is now the director of Honor and Ethics at the Academy. He and Julie, their dog and two cats are enjoying their assignmnent at USAFA. Karl passed on the following. A1 DORN is leav¬ ing the Military Science Department at the Academy to get aPhD at In¬ diana University. Tom NEAL is aflight surgeon at March AFB. He and Patty are becoming land barons by buying up land in Colorado Springs. Jim and Laura DUNN live in Navato, CA. Jim works for ahospital equipment company, Cardio Pulminary Implants, Inc., which manufac¬ tures pacemakers. Fred AUSTIN is at Dover AFB, and Ken FONSECA is at Charleston AFB.

The Mail Bag. 1didn’t receive any letters this time around, but Dan ADAMS sent the following information over the Academy computer net¬ work. Iguess that counts as mail. Dan is finishing up his third year in the Aero Department and his second year as their executive officer. Dan spends his free time skiing Colorado or socializing (refined partying!) with Ross ROLEY and friends. Dan reports that Sue HELMS is on an ex¬ change tour with the Royal Canadian Air Force at Cold Lake. Sue is a distinguished graduate of the USAF Test Pilot School and received the R.L. Jones Award for being the top flight test engineer in her class. She said that it’s always cold in Cold Lake (hence the name) and the coffee is super expensive up there, but flying CF-18s and CF-5s makes it agreat assignment. Joe MOSCHLER recently graduated from AFIT with an aero degree. He is presently assigned to the Mech Department. He and his wife, Paula, have anew daughter, Sarah Ann. Joe said that Paul TALARICO is married and works as an athletic club staffer in New Zealand. Darrell LAWYER will be leaving the CE Department and the Air Force this summer for private enterprise in northern California. Tom EHRARD’s doing well in CW. He will soon be moving to the AOC ranks with Debbie DUBBE and Rob TREMAINE. Finally Arnie FLORES recently married Laurie and will depart Dover AFB for aC-5 maintenance supervisor job at Ramstein AB, Germany.

That’s all for now folks. Keep those cards, letters, and phone calls com-

Send your donation now to the Air Force Academy Fund Association of Graduates

U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-5000

Tony Lorusso

103 Ivy Home Road Hampton, VA 23669

Home: (804) 727-0849

Percent members: 29

For those following the saga of Jake JAKOBl, let it be known that he has not given up on his quest to reenter the Air Force and get back into the cockpit. Although his requests have been denied thus far, he is sub¬ mitting yet another appeal. Meanwhile, Jake is afinancial consultant in Cincinnati and just finished his instrument, multi-engine, and flight in¬ structor rating. He’s now preparing to take his flight engineer exam. I’m sure this isn’t the end of the story, so stay tuned for the next episode. Also in Cincinnati is Rick BENKEN who is an electrical engineer with the phone company. Rick is also spending time convincing high school students to apply to the Academy.

Ihave to send aspecial thanks to Leona FLORES for sending me along letter filled with lots of class news. Leona and husband, Ray CANNON, are both at USAFA. Leona is the training director for Thirdclass Profes¬ sional Military Training, and Ray is scheduled to be the Engineering Mechanics Lab director beginning this summer. Leona recently gave birth to their second child, Katy. Leona and Ray are joined by ascore of other ’81ers at USAFA. Keith ANDERSON is in charge of doolie training -a task Idon’t envy, Lauri CROSS is teaching Japanese, Mike DALBY is in the English Department, Scott HALLAM is teaching history, Mike McCLURE is teaching aero, John MARLIN is at the Seiler Lab, Gary YALE is in astro. Matt DURCHHOLZ is teaching economics, Jim FRYLING is in chemistry, Tim BOUGAN is teaching EE, and Michelle JOHNSON is scheduled to arrive in the Poli Sci Department. Now for the shockerDoc HOOK is working in the Military Studies Department. Iwonder if he finally shed the earring or if he is still the liberal maverick 1remember him as.

Nancy RHOADES recently left USAFA and is now out in California working in the Special Projects Office of the Secretary of the Air Force. Silvi (KllSK) STEIGERWALD is out of the Air Force now and is with husband Bob in Monterey as he pursues aPhD in computer science at the Naval Postgraduate School. Being agrad from NPS, Ican empathize with the hardships Silvi and Bob are experiencing with the breathtaking rock-lined coast, secluded beaches, moderate climate, and romantic restaurants. Resort living can be so trying. Silvi and Bob are also proud parents of ason named Robert Allan.

Leona sent the enclosed picture of our classmates who were in her SOS class last summer. Alex TRUE and Ed KNOX are missing from the photo because they couldn’t drag themselves from their beds for the early morn¬ ing photo shoot. Also pictured is Bill BRIDGES who wasn’t in the SOS class, but rather is assigned to the school.

Although it’s sometimes hard to believe, our 10-Year Reunion is quick¬ ly approaching, and it’s time to start thinking about who will head the ar¬ rangements for our class. While the AOG provides significant assistance.

In the top row from left are Guillermo Balmaseda, Bill Bridges, Mark Ackermann, Steve Herrick, Maura Burke, Leona Flores, Ray Cannon, Scott Haiiam, and Wanda (Babb) Villers. Ron Stockman, Gerry Cavallo, Miles Crowell, and John Eric are in the middle row. In the bottom row are Matt Durchholz, Andy Knapp, Bill Lovelace, Pat Almazar, John Marlin, and Gary Konigsmark. mg.

we need one of our classmates to take charge. I’d be happy to do it, but I think it would be more prudent to select someone who will be assigned at USAFA during the planning phase (1990-91). Therefore, I’m soliciting volunteers. If you’re interested in organizing this memorable event for our class, please write or call me.

On afinal note, 1must again close with sorrowful news. Our friend and classmate, Gurnie GUNTER, died after along illness. Iremember work¬ ing closely with Gurnie during the planning of our 100th Night DiningOut, and Igrew to appreciate his friendship. His death is our loss. Our prayers are also extended to Craig KITCHENS on the death of his wife, Adare. Adare was killed in asailplane accident at the Academy while par¬ ticipating in aSpouse Appreciation Program. Finally, John YOUNG (started in our class, but graduated with the Class of ’82) died in aC-141 crash near Hurlburt Field in February. These friends and members of the Class of 1981 will long be remembered.

Jim Ratti

5448 Flicker Way

Dayton, OH 45424

Home: (513) 233-3552

AV: 787-7755

Percent Members: 28

Hello once again!

This installment of the ’82 news comes to you from the hallowed halls of Air University, SOS and “Prolific” Auditorium (the Blue Bedroom). Yep, that’s right. Somebody here must have read my column and finally figured out that I’ve never had an effective writing course. ..

I’m not alone in this endeavor though. Depending on who you listen to, this is either the last or next to last SOS class that ’82 zoombags are eligi¬ ble for. So, this particular class (89-C) is unusually heavy with Redtags. I don’t have an accurate count yet, but I’d venture to guess that there are at least 30-35 of us here. Iwanted to have apicture to include, but there wasn’t enough time between the start of the class and the deadline for the column. Watch this space next time around for said picture and acom¬ plete (I hope. ..) list of names and anecdotes.

Ican say, however, that Isighted Mike SHERMAN wearing a fl ight suit at the Pit (the Maxwell O’Club’s [very] casual bar). Seemed odd, since Iknew Maxwell had no F-111 sassigned. Iasked him if he was here cross¬ country and he said no, that he had broken down here without any other clothes and expected to have to stay about seven weeks. Gosh. SOS is about seven weeks. 1wonder. ..(Sorry Mike, couldn’t resist).

The first of three letters this quarter is from A1 SHERMAN. A1 wrote a great letter complimenting me for my work on the column, but mentioned that “it never seems to contain any information on any of the true ‘82 degenerates.” Since A1 considers himself one of the worst degenerates to have graduated (said he expected aguy in athree-piece to pull him out of the graduation march-on), he took it upon himself to write on behalf of himself and the other True Degenerates (TDs) (like DG only different).

A1 is still stationed at Eglin, and contrary to most opinions of that place, he dislikes the location. Too hot and humid, and no New York ac¬ cents. A1 works in the 9th Special Ops Squadron, flying Herky Birds and passing gas to Special Ops helos. He had agood year in 1986, forsaking his TD status by winning an Air Medal for amission he flew in Feb 86, and by being selected for aMAC Excellence in Airmanship award. Ac¬ tually, there was even talk about the Jabara Award for the same mission, but there was also talk about lost wings if the true story of the flight ever surfaced. So, he took what he had and ran with it! The Airlift Associa¬ tion’s Young Leadership Award later that year took away some of the sting though.

A1 passed on that Mark OTTOSON (Otto) married Debbie in Sep. 86. Fellows TDs Joe ROMANKO, Jonnie JOHNSON and Tim TALBOT assisted. Mark and Debbie recently announced the birth of proud Al’s godson, Erik Ryan, pictured below.

A1 wanted me to mention that Jonnie and Joe are at McGuire flying “T-Tailed, bug-sucking, nerf-nosed mountain magnets” (aka C-141Bs), and that Otto is at Randolph teaching at PIT (Pilot Instructor Training). He also said that Gary AMBARIAN, Mike KORCHEK and Tim HOPE are at Eglin. Gary is in DOV at the 309th SOW and Kor is with the 55th SOS flying the Blackhawk helicopter. Tim is in the 9th SOS with Al.

A1 mentioned that he will be DOSing on 25 Jun 89, and he thinks he is the first pilot in the class of ’82 to do so. Says he established his date as long ago as 14 Dec 87 (yes, 1987) and challenges any healthy pilot with an honorable discharge to beat it. Any takers? He also mentioned that he would like to hear from anyone with agood flight log program that will run on the Apple IIGS, so Iguess he plans on continuing to fly. Anyway, thanks for the letter Al. Don’t wait so long next time!

Erik Ryan Ottoson at four days old.

Next up is Tim COLLINS. Tim wrote from Luke AFB where he is undergoing RTU for the F-I6 before reporting to Moody AFB. Tim finished an ASTRA tour last October and is looking forward to being reunited with his family (wife, Brenda, four-year-old Jonathan, two-yearold Maree and aTBA due in April). Dan LEVIN was also at Luke in Tim’s RTU class. Dan came from OV-lOs and A-lOs in Korea and is on his way to Hahn in Germany. Tim closed by inviting anyone passing through Georgia to stop in for aplace to stay and agood meal.

My last letter is from Stu RODGERS, now an Eagle driver at Holloman. Stu began life as aFAIP at Vance, then graduated to T-38 PIT at Randolph. He married Rosanna on 2Jan 88 and then got his F-15 assignment. He’s about all settled into base housing now and sends word that Greg LEWIS is also assigned to the 9th TFS at Holloman. Stu is wondering WHATEVER HAPPENED TO Tom TEDMON (last seen aboard an AWACS at Tinker) and Mike STROUD, ’83 (settled at George?). Send any rumors of sightings this way.

Things are still going well for me at Wright-Pat, although Ihaven’t spent much time there lately. 1had four trips to Albuquerque between Christmas and New Years, went to Hawaii for two weeks in January, then Mildenhall for the first three weeks in February. Ihad two weeks at home and came here to SOS. The telephone bill is like it was when Ellen and I were dating! ’Til next time, keep those cards and letters doming, and be safe! RATMAN. (CompuServe 72477,1255; GEnie J. RATTI)

Andy Sizemore

823 12th St. Marysville, CA

Percent members: 27

Well sportsfans, it’s time for the spring report! 1have just returned from awonderful two-month sabbatical down at Maxwell AFB —other¬ wise known as Squadron Officer School. For those of you who haven’t been, it’s all that you’ve heard about and more! In spite of this, Istill managed to enjoy some of my time down there and met up with quite a few classmates Ihaven’t seen in along time. Ieven managed to get apar¬ tial group picture of those who cared enough to show up for it.

On the way out to Maxwell, Istopped in Colorado Springs to visit some relatives and friends. Keith and Ellen (CRAIG) BERGERON are now in¬ structors in the Math and Physics Departments, respectively. They really like their new house up in Monument where their pet wolves have plenty of room to roam. Also back at USAFA are Harry GROSS in the Astro Department and Drew WACKER down at the T-41 squadron.

Once down at Maxwell, Iwound up in the same section as Errol LEWIS and Don MAGEE. Errol is currently at Wright-Patterson doing contracting for Systems Command, but he is getting ready to move down to Eglin. Don finished his purgatory in missiles and is now doing time as an SOS instructor. Isoon ran into John CROW who is currently aC-141 instructor down at Altus AFB. He reports that Vince and Mavis (THORPE) COMPAGNO are also there. Passing through as new C-141 pilots were Alonzo BABERS and Brian COLLINS.

News from other grads in attendance include: Blake FENTRESS is en¬ joying his new assignment as aC-5 pilot at Travis. John MULHEARN is still flying KC-135s at Loring. Tracy (SMITH) URMAN recently married Walter “Tom” Urman. Joe WENDLBERGER is working for Space Divi¬ sion down in Los Angeles. Brad KNAPP recently upgraded to instructor in the KC-135 and will soon marry another blue suiter. Ted HOLLOWAY is currently working at the Weapons Lab, Kirtland AFB. Darrell WILSON is still playing B-52 EWO at Minot.

Those who attended but with nothing to report included Andy LAGRONE, Marc MILLER, Sheila ZUEHLKE, Kathy (MOYER) DOBY, Joe PACHECO, Gene MAPLES, Matt BODDICKER, Jeff HAGENS, Mike MENDONCA, and John STAFFORD. Special recogniton goes out to distinguished graduates John CROW, Joe PACHECO, Matt BODDICKER, and outstanding graduate Kathy DOBY. Mike MENDONCA also turned in anotable performance by beating me out (and barely Imight add!) in the mile-and-a-half Fleet Foot race with atime of eight minutes. All in all, Ithink we are all finally glad to have SOS out of our system and with ACSC nothing but adistant squall on the furthest horizon.

Not too many people write me anymore, so Ionly have afew more items to report. Tom WEBSTER and his wife Jodi have moved to Schloss Kaserne, West Germany, where 1believe he is now an air liaison officer. Dale and Blanche (GODWIN) FRIDLEY find themselves separatedagain! They are both serving one-year remote tours: Blanche is at Pirinclik Air Station in Eastern Turkey as asenior quality assurance evaluator and Dale is in Sana’a, North Yemen, teaching Yemenese pilots to fly the F-5. Ithink these two have spent almost as much time in the Air Force apart as they have together. Hats off to their dedication. Steve KNOBLOCK is currently upgrading to instructor pilot in the KC-135 here at Beale. Finally, this will be my last report from Beale AFB. While Iwas away at SOS, my assignment to the 4952nd Test Squadron at WrightPatterson came through, and Ishall be departing in May. Iguess it’s four more years of not pulling alert for this SAC Warrior!

Thanks to all who gave their inputs this time. Class news for the next Checkpoints can be sent to Ray Blust at 10304 Bilbrook Place, Austin, TX 78748. Keep those letters coming!

/ Mike Goldfein

126 Garden Crest Circle

Del Rio, TX 78840

Home: (512) 774-3959

AV: 732-5698

Percent members: 25

Greetings from Southwest Texas. It’s abalmy 95 degrees and no clouds to be seen. Summers come early here, but I’m not complaining. We’ve had some tough winter flying months and we deserve the change.

Ireceived only one letter this period from Steve LATCHFORD. He says, “Greetings from Offutt AFB. I’m an EW on RC-135s here. Iwork with Kevin CARLSON, Mike SCHETTERER, Tony HUTFLES, and Linda WITTMAN. On one flight Iran into Chris NOWAK (KC-135s, McConnell) at about 30,000 ft. on an air refueling track. His wife, Lisa, and my wife, Christina, are both due in September. 1saw Lance NITSCHKE (B-52s, Mather) at Steve SHEEHY’s wedding in Canon City, CO. Steve is amaintenance officer at Laughlin. He and Theresa are ex¬ pecting their first any time now and will soon be moving to Randolph. In Kadena Isaw Clay and Trish WISNIEWSKI (E-15s) and tfieir three children; Kyle and Jill LAMPELLA (C-12s) with one on the way; and Marty LOUTHAN (C-141s, now T-41s, USAFA) who was ferrying cadets

around the Pacific. In Greece Imet Nick PSALTAKIS. Ididn’t know him at the Zoo, but Ken POST told me so many Nick ‘Big Guy’ Psaltakis stories during UPT that he seemed like an old friend. 1also ran into Kristen DOTTERWAY who had just arrived from Ankara to become the new det commander at Mt. Pateras, near Athens. In asnack bar in Sigonella, Sicily 1saw Carl DIEUDONNE who had just diverted there on aC-141 checkride. That’s all the news Ihave for now. Say hi to Scott HENN, Ed RUTHERFORD, and Steve SHEEHY for me.”

': F-15, F-16,

Ipromised I’d give you an update on some of the guys from my SOS class: Kerry PHELAN has been married to his Texas sweetheart, Rober¬ ta, since three weeks after graduation. No kids yet, but hoping for 1989. AT-38 FAIP and DO exec at Columbus, he’s expecting an assignment Mar ’89, preferably something that starts with an “F-. etc. Good luck Kerry. Let me know. Tony DOMINICE was PCS to work with the Army’s Light Helicopter Experimental (LHX) program in St. Louis, MO developing avionics hardware and software. He now has a one-year-old named Michael. Joe JOHNSON was attending SOS while PCS enroute from two GLCM tours in USAFE (England and Germany) to nav school at Mather. Jon WIKSTROM was there with wife Jeanne and mentioned some Hanscom news. Scott STENGEL was to be in our SOS class but received aPCS to Gunter, AL. Karla DOREMUS got mar¬ ried. Matt JOHNSON went to USAFE, Germany. Randy BRANDEN¬ BURG just got hitched and is about to finish his MBA, as is Paul BYRNES from Babson. Jon fi nished his MBA from Boston U. ayear ahead of schedule. He has now PCSd to Andrews to work at AESC Head¬ quarters. He is only six miles from Andrews at AV: 858-5147 if you’re in the area. He says “Bring beer!”

Ted HARTENSTEIN called from Fairchild to say hi. 1didn’t have time to talk but he mentioned that Karen COX was replacing him at Ramstein and he would be the new ADO at the rescue squadron at Fairchild. Did I get that right, Ted?

Some other poop I’ve heard through the grapevine: Paul “Pauly Purebread” McGILLICUDDY is going to marry Mary Jo Lynn Mulhern from San Antonio, TX on the third of June. Mark TORRES is married and stationed at Sheppard. Tom STANBURY is now flying Tweets at Reese. Bob AVILA is here at Laughlin flying Tweets. Jim MACKEY is flying hogs at DM. Dillon McFARLAND is an F-16 aggressor at Nellis. Joe CALDERON is now in aT-37 at Reese. Gail Kasner married Mike BENTON. Rich BURTON is in Saudi flying C-12s. And last but not least, Sam COX is married at Charleston.

That’s it for the Spring edition. This will be the last letter Iwrite from this address, but since Idon’t know my new address yet, just keep sending them to Del Rio and they’ll find me eventually. 1didn’t get any pictures in the mail so 1will happily put in ashot of me and my wonderful financee, Carole. We were engaged uh, what was that day, Feb 4th, and will be married in Seattle on uh, the 5th of August. They love when you forget those important dates, don’t they? I’ll be at Hollomon until the 31st of Ju¬ ly if you want to drop aline to General Delivery. Until next time —be safe and keep in touch.

Jackie (Charsagua) Willis

457A Billy Mitchell

San Antonio, TX 78226-1819

Home; (512) 432-1957

AV: 945-2112

Percent members: 23

(Editor’s note. fVe received no input this month. Send your news for the next magazine to Jackie at her address above.)

iiJ

Gary L. Burg

PSC Box 6338

APO New York 09179

Percent members: 21

Greetings compadres! Spring has flown by with quite alot happening. 1 completed F-111 RTU the end of March with Mike PANARISI and am now stationed at RAF Lakenheath so when you write, note the new ad¬ dress. Getting right into the news, 1ran into Scott McCLEAN on aRed Flag deployment from Lakenheath while at Cannon AFB. Scott is enjoy¬ ing his assignment as aWSO in the F-11 IF but admits the sunshine was a nice break from England’s normally overcast weather. 1also talked to Dave TUCK out at the west campus of the Academy (Williams AFB). He says all is well. He states Pete DAVEY is now married and Dave TUBB is soon to be. Also Pete YORK has been married about ayear to Nancy, a native of Serria Vista, AZ. Keith KUDLA is now going through UPT at Willy after completing grad school at Harvard and Frank ROSSI is now flying the best fighter in TAC/USAFE, the F-111 Gust abit of personal bias, sorry). There are finally acouple of photos for our column (more needed). One is John and Janet AUGUSTlNE’s wedding Ireceived from Mark MEDVEC and the other is my own wedding.

Mark’s was the only letter 1received for the column in time so break out your pen next time as soon as you finish reading this column and drop me aline. Mark writes, “News was kind of slow here in Louisiana for awhile (sorry 1missed December) but there were afew noteworthy items to pass along. One of the Barksdale boys, Scott LADNER, got married December 10th in Jackson, MS. Acouple of his old squadronmates showed up: Cecil MEDINA, Andy INGRAM, and Rick COOKSEY. Rickey RODGERS and 1were ushers. The party the night before was out of control! It was good seeing everyone again.

Martin Luther King, Jr holiday brought acouple of us old Pink Pan¬ thers together in Fort Worth. Jon PUTNEY came up from Goodfellow AB, TX, to meet Doug JAMES, Kate BENSON, Ron SCHRUPP and me at Carswell. My new year’s resolution to curb my drinking habit went out the window that weekend! Oh well, it was agood time. 1ran into Steve JASZAl and Brett FRERICHS at aparty Doug threw. They’re doing fi ne; both are B-52 crewmembers.

raise we’ll receive as Iam! Anyway, Ialso got aletter from Polly PADDEN, who is now engaged to her longtime sweetheart. She wants to dispel the rumor that she eloped during Christmas; as far as we know it is not true, yet!

Also, Iheard from Bob and Julie (DAHNKE) MANSFIELD, who are both doing well in Georgia. They bought ahouse in Tifton, GA where their one-year-old golden retriever, Hans, continues to tear up the yard. This dog was aholy terror when we were at Willie. Everytime we had a party at Julie’s place, this mutt always seemed to break something or someone. But the dog’s good for afew laughs.

The only other news Ihave is afew changes of address and awelcome. Kathy MUENCH is now stationed at Ellsworth AFB and living in Rapid City, SD. Jason RUDOLPH is aC-21A pilot at Offutt AFB, living in La Vista, NE and Kathy BENKA is aC-12 pilot at Wright-Patterson AFB living in Fairborn, OH. Welcome Dave CALDWELL to the membership. Dave is aB-52G pilot stationed at Andersen AFB, Guam. WRITE!

Glenn Strebe

7705 Stampede Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Home: (719) 531-0122

AV: 692-7978

Percent members: 27

Once again Iam composing at the typewriter past my deadline. I figured that if Iwaited long enough, Iwould receive afew letters the next day. Well, that didn’t happen and as you see, this is avery short Check¬ points article.

Iran into Lynda (DAVIS) MYERS in Harmon Hall. She got married to Elman MYERS (’88) and they are both stationed at Offutt AFB, NE. Out at Clark AB, Ireceived aletter once again from Brenda MANGENTE. She is doing fine as aGround Radio Maintenance Branch chief in the 1961st Communications Group. Jeff QUIGGLE is also stationed there and busting his butt in the 6922nd ESS. Believe it or not, these people are already speaking about their next assignment. Speaking of which, con¬ gratulations on making 1LT. We are no longer “butter bars.”

Ialso received anote from Jeff CUNDIFF. He informed me that Pat CHEATHAM, Kelly LATIMER, and himself have graduated from George Washington University at NASA-Langley with master’s degrees in aero or astro. Kelly and Jeff are off to Reese for UPT (90-04) and Pat is heading to the Flight Dynamics Lab at Wright-Pat. Congratulations you strivers and good luck with your next assignments.

Quick, which way is up?

1heard from Rob SCHRINK, who is at Offutt. He just got engaged, which just goes to show you that there is someone for everyone! He’s try¬ ing to assemble amotley crew for the bachelor party, so if you’re in Nebraska around the July 28th timeframe, look him up; he’s anut. Chris STOCKTON’S getting hitched in Davis, CA in February. (Isn’t it sad that the only time 1hear from these folks is when they send their wed¬ ding invitations?) It’s hard to believe we’re about to hit the three-year commissioning mark, but I’m sure you’re just as motivated about the pay

Ken THERIOT gave me acall to inform me that he got married on 3 Dec., 1988 to alady named Lisa who is aCPA. Ken is finally happy because he doesn’t have to manage his money or do his taxes. He is sta¬ tioned at Castle as aFuels Management officer and his favorite pastime is consuming large amounts of wine. This past summer, he got achance to play guitar and synthesizer at the L.A. County Fair for 18 straight nights and is happy to inform us that the debt he incurred on his MasterCard as acadet is now paid off.

As you can tell, there were not very many letters this past quarter. 1 hope that somebody will write this next time to keep our class up to date. I still haven’t received afew of the assignments for the UPT classes, so please send me some info. Congratulations to the Class of ’89 and have an enjoyable and safe summer. GET THOSE SILVER BARS!

Mark V. Peters

901 S. Country Club Drive #1067 Mesa, AZ 85210-3548

Home: (602) 969-3373

AV: 474-5396

Percent members: 25

Thanks to everyone who sent me info! Please keep it up, as alot of our classmates will be going to all four corners of the globe after the gradua¬ tions this summer. Speaking of graduations, congratulations to those just joining us. The following are in class 90-04 here at Willie: Kurt HOLDEN, Pat O’REILLY, Edward RIX, and Rich SANDERS. Class 90-05 picked up Nebojsa SOLUNAC and Michelle SYLLA. Edward (Shak) MANGUM and Darryl WILSON are at Vance and Columbus, respectively. Lastly, Bill (Squid) PARKER is at Navy’s Surface Warfare School. 9

Undergraduate Space Training Class of 4Nov 88.

Mara GARCIA sent me the above photo from her UST class at Lowry. Linwood JACKSON, Bernie SCHWARTZ, Mark AIKEN, and Mara are at Holloman, NM. MaryAnn (DOLAN) KASCAK. Chris TRAXLER, Mary McKEON, Lisa DIXON, and Russ RIDDER are at Fairchild AFB in Washington. John BYSTROFF and Nina ARMAGNO are at Cavalier AFS, ND, and Beale AFB, CA, respectively.

Kelly BONDARUK took afew minutes off from chasing electrons as a Minuteman systems engineer at Ellsworth AFB, SD, to send me some in¬ fo. Rob and Sally (HURST) McCULLERS were recently married. John MOREHEAD is engaged to Beth who he met at Columbus. Butch DIOTTE is still in helicopter training as an ARMY grunt. Bruce HALL graduates from the Marine Corps Infantry Officers Course on May 12th and then reports to Southern California for his next assignment. Paul VALDEZ is enjoying his job in aSPO at Hanscom. He and his USAFA roommate, Chris EVANS, have an apartment just outside of Boston. And Steve GURNEY is doing well at Vance.

Kari THYNE is the OIC of the Propulsion Branch at Altus AFB, OK. IShe sent in info on some of our classmates at the Aircraft Maintenance Officer course at Chanute. Scott “Chief’ OSS was assigned to Castle AFB, CA. Evan and Debbie MILLER will be at McConnell AFB in Kan¬ sas where Evan’s brother flies B-ls. Jeff CRESSE (also recently married) is at Charleston AFB. Chris HAUTH is ag Eglin AFB, FL, and Ron PAUL went to Mountain Home AFB in Idaho.

Charles MICHALEC at Vance gave me aquick update on abunch of people. Jay WOOD and Lisa were recently engaged. Quint MIKLOS should be going to Willie on 21 June (if not earlier) and was also recently engaged to Tina Holzhauer. John IWANSKl is in training to be agroundto-air FAC at Patrick AFB, FL. Russ BARBER and Sean PARRY are at Goodfellow AFB, TX, for intel training. And congratulations to Bob OREMSKI and wife who are expecting!

Todd DIERLAM is “busting (his) buns” studying in Cambridge with his roommates Bill WILKINSON, Tom DENNEDY, and John ULLMEN. Todd, Bill, and Tom are at MIT along with Ron SIMMONS and Ralph GALETTI. Ron and Ralph live in adowntown Boston highrise that some call the “sex palace in the sky.” Studying must be sooo time consuming. John is at Harvard along with Jenny (SCHWANZ) MARRS, Martha McSALLY, and Biran RUHM. They’re all loving the East Coast, especially Todd since he’s only had his tires slashed once. Tyler ELDRED, Dawn DUNLOP and Glenn GRAHAM are living in Manhattan just afew short blocks from the main drag of Harlem. Glenn has only lost his starter, aradio and two batteries so far. They’ll all be at Willie this sum¬ mer after they graduate from Columbia. Todd’s seen afew ’88ers at Hanscom. Guy HOCKER is in aneat job that requires him to take lots of TDY to Europe. Needless to say, he’s enjoying the trips. Kevin KERNS works at the Geophysics Lab. Holly VICTORIA, Melissa GREER, Paul VALDEZ, Dawn HORNER, and Stacey (SIDOR) McNUTT are also at Hanscom.

Tom McDaniels sent in the above and asked me to write that Butch DIOTTE did return to Colorado Springs to visit his young girlfriend. Ed de la PENA supposedly “fell in love on New Year’s Eve with amother of three.” Thanks Tom for the info —I’m sure Butch and Ed are happy you sent it in.

If you’re in the Boston area, Todd (and roommates) are offering their apartment if you need aplace to temporarily crash. Todd’s home number is (617) 776-6005.

MORE WEDDINGS: Marilee LAURSEN and Russell WARNER tied the knot the day after graduation and are now living in San Antonio. Rich FRAMPTON and Tracey JONES were just hitched on 3March. Rich is here at Willie and Tracey is at Lowry until late June. Scott and Dani HINKLE are at Willie. Lastly, Shak and Robin MANGUM are at Vance.

WHO’S WHERE: Lisa BOYCE is busy “BSing” (Behavioral Sciencing?) at Randolph along with Annette STEPHENS. Katie CALLAHAN is at Langley. Chris ROMAGOSA is at Luke for intel. Jim “DEVO” DVORAK is acommunications of fi cer at Travis. Joe MAZUR is at Wright-Patterson doing systems contracting. John FITZSIMMONS is doing physics work at Eglin AFB, FL. Michelle TAFOYA and Craig HEILMAN are working with missiles at Minot AFB in North Dakota.

Remember the next deadline is about aweek after this arrives in your mailbox. Thanks again to everyone who sent something in; keep it up!

Bill Wilkinson, Todd Dierlam and Tom Dennedy model the new mess dress uniform.

Ed de la Pena, Tom McDaniels and Butch Diotte in Colorado for Christmas.

Beautiful Laset'Engraved Plaque of the U.S. Air Force Academy Cadet Area

This unique work of art captures the cadet area while cadet squadrons are assembled for noon-meal formation. The rich walnut plaque features the academy crest with the words “United States Air Force Academy” at the top highlighted in silver. An aluminum plate is included at the bottom for appropriate inscrip¬ tion. This handsome plaque is created using arevolutionary new art form called laser engraving. Abeam of invisible light from a powerful laser is used to carve the recessed areas. The portions of the wood which are struck by the laser beam are raised to a temperature hotter than the surface of the sun. This intense energy literally “vaporizes” the wood. Although the laser’s cut¬ ting action is sharp, it is, at the same time, gentle. The individual

cells of the wood are cleanly cross-sectioned without damage

they display virtually no char.