Checkpoints March 1997

Steve Wittman, USAFA 77

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Chairman of the Board

James P. Ulm, ’61 President &CEO

Richard M. Coppock, ’61 Vice President, Services

Jock C. H. Schwank, ’60 Vice President, Deveiopment

James A. Shaw, ’67

Director of Publications

Tom Kroboth

AOG Staff

Jennifer Bowman

Cheryl Brower

Pat Buland

Michele Cowan

Chuck Denham, ’67

Cathy AHeymann

Maureen AHornyak

Catherine Janey

Stephen HKnight

Kathy AMcCann

Don McCarthy

Jack DMueller, ’70 Tauni L. Orndorff

Dave LPfeil

BOARD OF DIRECTORS

To Serve Until 1July 1997

JWBrown III, ’59 (Vice Chairman &Secretary)

AJBurshnick, ’60

JPUlm, ’61 (Chairman)

JJKelly Jr, ’65

AEBlumberg Jr, ’68

WWMaywhort, ’68

RNStarkey, ’68

JGBurke, ’70 RALowe, ’71

SASimon, ’77 RPKay, ’78

JKBarnson, ’83

MSNovak, ’84

DLHargrove,

’87

To Serve Until 1July 1999

EJMontgomery Jr., ’59 AWBiancur, ’60 LBFreeman, ’61 DHRoe, ’62 JLSmith, ’62 (Treasurer)

FSOlmsted Jr., ’64

’66

’75

’82

’89

’88

’92

Second Foreign Language Camp Slated for June Graduate Takes Reins of 10th Air Base Wing Sailplane Team Sweeps Aerobatic Competition Character

Center Welcomes New Director ..

Academy Burial Policies/Procedures Outlined

Fifth Service Academy Golf Classic Readied

Football Loss Launches AOG “Hawaii Branch” Scrubbing

Retired General Urges Elimination of Nuclear “Beast Graduates

The Secret Life of Waldo Dumbsquat

Falcon Sports

Attention In the Area

AOG Biographical Information Form

AOG Gift Order Form

AOG Member Benefits/Services

Class News

ABOUT OUR COVER

The cover photograph is one of more than 150 images taken by acclaimed photographer Elizabeth Gill Lui for anew book titled “Spirit and Flight” offered by the Association of Graduates. The handsome hard-bound volume is akeepsake of photographic Academy treasures, including reminiscences by numerous Academy celebrities. See page 44 for ordering information.

CHECKPOINTS (ISSN 0274-7391) (USPS 898-080) is published quarterly in February, May, August and November by the Association of Graduates, U.S. Air Force Academy. (Phone 719-472-0300, DSN: 333-2067. FAX: 719-333-4194.) It is provided as part of amembership package of which the magazine subscription annually accounts for $10. Single copies of CHECK¬ POINTS for members $2.50. Periodicals postage paid at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. POSTMASTER: Send Form 3579 to CHECKPOINTS, Association of Graduates, Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, Colo. 80840-4475

Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors. They do not necessarily re fl ect the opinions, policy or attitude of the Association of Graduates, its officers or the editorial staff. The appearance 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 U.S. Air Force Academy, Winter 1996-97.

VIEW FROM THE TOP ^^★

Lt. Gen. Paul E. Stein, ’66, Superintendent ^ ^

It’s been another exciting year at your United States Air Force Academy. We’ve had many opportunities to excel and thanks to the outstanding efforts of all Academy personnel, we’ve taken ad¬ vantage of those opportunities.

Graduation was asplendid affair. It was amilestone event with General Fogleman, the first Academy graduate to become the Air Force Chief of Staff, delivering an outstanding commencement address (see Summer 1996 Checkpoints, pages 24-25.) The Chief saluted each and every one of the graduates as they eagerly joined the ranks of the world’s greatest air and space force. More than 60 percent of the Class of ’96, up nearly 10 percent from the previous class, are on their way to “Operations.” This career area includes UPT, UNT, Space and Missile Operations, Air Traffic Control, Command and Control, Intelligence, and Weather.

the-art classroom and laboratory facilities for our Biology, Chemistry, Astronautics, and Civil Engineering programs. As a result of the CETF opening, we can “modernize” significant por¬ tions of Fairchild Hall. Congress approved the initial $10M to help us realize this renovation project which should get underway in the near future.

The renovation of Vandenberg Hall, a$42M project, is also proceeding on schedule. Room renovation began in December ’95 with an anticipated completion date of April 1998. By the end of January 1997, we will have refurbished 680 of the 1,325 rooms. This is inconvenient to our Vandenberg occupants, but very necessary and long overdue as it has been 38 years since Vandenberg Hall was built. To top off anew look in Vandenberg, we are also replacing aging furniture in cadet rooms with attrac¬ tive and durable modular furniture.

Our airfield is also undergoing afacelift. We completed con¬ struction on athird runway this past June and initiated construc¬ tion on amidfield sailplane hangar in June and an Aero Club facility in November. Both facilities are projected for completion in June 1997. The impact of our airfield upgrades should take the form of safer sailplane operations and a15 percent increase in sailplane sorties.

Lt. Gen. Paul E. Stein, ’66

it Two Grand—United We

On 27 June, we welcomed more than 1,200 basic cadets as potential members of the Class of 2000. They met amotivated cadet cadre that had trained hard and were well prepared for every aspect of Basic Cadet Training (BCT) this past summer. The Class of 2000, however, was also up to the challenge...five weeks after their arrival, they marched back from Jack’s Valley with the pride and enthusiasm that accompany the successful completion of the Academy’s demanding basic training program and were formally accepted into the Cadet Wing. The Class of 2000 also owns the lowest summer attrition rate (2.8 percent) in more than aquarter century and the highest Physical Fitness Test success rate in Academy history. We attribute this to their deter¬ mination (their class motto is. Stand”), leadership provided by the Classes of 1997 and 1998, and anew improved exercise regimen developed by the Athletic Department to assist cadets in attaining higher levels of physical fi tness sooner in their career.

Our upperclass cadets were also busy. More than 1,000 of them helped train the Class of 2000 during BCT while others par¬ ticipated in myriad training programs. Our airmanship programs, consisting of soaring, parachuting, and flight screening, were again the favorites with over 1,400 cadets taking part as either in¬ structors or students. Nearly 1,000 cadets fanned out across the Air Force going to 70 different locations as part of Operation Air Force while 1,100 cadets received Combat Survival Training under the tutelage of 650 cadre comprised of officers, NCOs, and cadets.

In late July, we hosted the Secretary of the Air Force, Dr. Sheila Widnall, who participated in the ribbon-cutting ceremony for our Consolidated Education and Training Facility (CETF). This new building provides 140,000 net square feet of state-of-

Parents’ Weekend ’96 was particularly noteworthy. We kicked off our football season with ahome opener against anew con¬ ference foe—San Jose State. Weekend activities also marked the kickoff of “Women in Motion”, which celebrates 20 years of women as members of the Cadet Wing at the Air Force Academy and their contributions to our Air Force. “Women in Motion festivities during Parents’ Weekend included receptions, women’s varsity soccer and volleyball matches, a5K Fun Run/Walk, apre¬ football game tailgate party, and topical panel discussions. One highlight was an appearance of the Attorney General of the United States, the Honorable Janet Reno, who was the guest speaker at the “Women in Motion” banquet.

The Dean of Faculty conducted an extensive six-month review of the curriculum. During the review, they reassessed and revalidated each core course for its ultimate contribution to pro¬ ducing both awell-educated citizen and aprofessional Air Force officer. As aresult, significant changes were made. We modified the composition of the core by adding and deleting courses (resulting in aslight increase to the core size), and established a new “core option” category. All changes to the core affect the Class of 2000 and subsequent classes. We also reaffirmed the im¬ portance of majors. We eliminated the “Bachelor of Science” program, established divisional majors as the minimum program, and added three new interdisciplinary majors: Military Doctrine, Operations, and Strategy: Foreign Area Studies; and Meteorology. The Air Force Academy now offers 29 majors and four minors. Beginning with the Class of ’98, all cadets will have a major.

This was also an eventful year for our athletic programs. The biggest change in athletics is our women now competing at the National Collegiate Athletic Association’s Division Ilevel. After 20 years of Division II competition, our women made the jump to Division Iand compete as our men do as member teams of the Western Athletic Conference (WAC). The competition is stiff, but we’re con fi dent our women will rise to the challenge.

Both our mens’ and women’s athletic teams compete in anewly expanded WAC. San Jose State, the University of Nevada at Las Vegas, Rice, Texas Christian University, Tulsa, and Southern Methodist University joined the WAC to compete in America’s (Continued on page 7.)

Mail:

Email:

Second Foreign Language Camp Slated for June

After the excellent success of the 1996 Summer Foreign Language Camp, the Academy Research and Development In¬ stitute is excited about offering the 1997 camp again from June 5-21, 1997 to junior and senior high school students across the United States.

The program is avery intensive, full-immersion instruction in Chinese, French, German, Japanese, Russian and Spanish for all language levels. Students between the ages of 13 and 19 have a unique opportunity to make dramatic language improvements or learn anew foreign language. Students will stay in the Academy’s newly-renovated dormitories and make use of the outstanding sports and recreation facilities. In addition, they will make exten¬ sive use of the Language Learning Center, amodern, state-of-theart facility, with aworld-wide reputation as aleader in multimedia second language instruction.

Using computers that are interfaced with laserdisc players, students interact with authentic video segments in the target language. Additionally, relevant pre-selected language informa¬ tion will be made available in a“virtual” Internet environment. The campers use the target language at all times.

Students work their way through prepared lessons where they

(View From the Top: From page 5.)

first “super conference” consisting of 16 member universities. Another good news story is our Leaders Encouraging Airmen Development (LEAD) program. This program was established by General Fogleman to create interest and encourage applications from active duty airmen to attend our Preparatory School. It worked! We had a400 percent increase in airmen enrollments in the program’s first year. In Academic Year (AY) 94-95, our priorenlisted representation in the Prep School consisted of 13 students; we jumped to 71 in AY 95-96, and for AY 96-97, we have 50 airmen in the Prep School. We are encouraged by the suc¬ cess of this young program and look forward to the outstanding contributions of former Prep School cadet candidates as Air Force Academy cadets and officers.

As you might have guessed, we are proud of the Cadet Wing, faculty, and staff for their accomplishments over the past year. We are also excited about the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead. Our graduation ceremony for the Class of ’97 is included on the list of challenges/opportunities. Amajor infrastructure project involving excavation of the entire Falcon Stadium floor is currently underway, and the possibility of voiding the project warranty by holding our ceremony on the stadium floor forced us to begin looking at alternative solutions several months ago. After extensive consultation with the cadets in the Class of 1997 and our engineers, we found away for aslightly modified graduation that will take place in the stadium without sacrificing the warranty on our project. We’ve worked hard to ensure the ceremony will be as dignified and memorable as all graduates of the United States Air Force Academy expect and deserve.

We want to thank you for your continuing support and, as always, feedback is important to us...please feel free to let us know where we might improve.

see, hear, and interact with everyday situations involving native speakers. They have total control over the lesson progression. All classroom activities are based on these realistic scenarios.

Evening and Sunday activities support the total learning pro¬ cess and include such events as sports, lectures, films and many more. There will be hikes, tennis, volleyball, basketball, etc. Lec¬ tures will be held by native speakers about their countries and cultures and students will see movies from the target country.

This program provides an extremely effective way of learning a language. The camp instructors are experienced, certified high school language teachers who are trained by the Academy’s language professors in the latest technology at the Air Force Academy. New instructors will attend an intensive workshop directly preceding the camp to work on material design, the use of the learning center, and the integration of IVD technology.

All applicants need awritten recommendation from their language teacher or counselor. They also must agree to cooperate with the “target language only” requirement. Previous foreign language experience is not necessary. Students will be grouped ac¬ cording to their language proficiency and experience. Those students with no previous language knowledge begin their course of instruction three days early to facilitate their integration into the “no English” environment. Space is limited, we urge you to apply now.

Additional information and applications may bC obtained from Marielle Robinson, camp director, (719) 472-3202, Fax: (719) 472-2946 or Dr. Reiner H. Schaeffer, Lt. Col. USAF (Ret.), co¬ owner of The Foreign Language Center, (719) 636-1713, Fax: (719) 636-1397. Mail: Air Force Academy Summer Foreign Language Camp, Hq USAFA/DFF, 2354 Fairchild Hall, Suite 6H68A, USAF Academy, CO 80840-6244. E-mail: LANGCAMP @concentric.net.

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THE AOG BOARDROOM

Brig. Gen. (Ret) James P. Ulm, ’61, Chairman of the Board

In my summer 1996 Checkpoints article, Istated my main theme is to focus AOG efforts toward building afamily concept with astrong com¬ mitment to our alma mater. In keeping with this focus, Iam convinced that two-way communications will create abetter understanding between the graduate community, friends, families and the AOG. It is an essential attribute for accomplishing the goal of afamily dedicated to supporting the USAF Academy. It appears to me that while reasonable efforts have been made, amutual “understanding and appreciation of goals” has not been achieved. Since there is always aneed for improved communica¬ tions, Iwill use this article as an opportunity to bring this area into better focus.

3

Jim Ulm, ’61

The following is aletter Ireceived from agraduate, Jer Hartley, ’67. Jer raised some points that are worthy of discussion, and his letter is an excellent departure point for my comments. He probably expresses aview shared by some AOG members and nonmembers.

March 18, 1996

Association of Graduates

Attn: James P. Ulm, 3116 Academy Drive, Suite 100 USAFA, CO 80840-4475

Dear General Ulm:

On the occasion of yet another solicitation from the association, I think it is fair for you to know why Ihave stopped sending money. The following in no way reduces my respect and personal affection for all of you who work so hard on our behalf.

The short version is that Iknow from personal experience the motivating effect alack of resources has on getting one’s priorities straight. The longer version encompasses the following perceptions I’ve developed over the years of the association and its activities, whether or not they are true:

1. We have never effectively influenced an issue of any import, despite the enormity of our collective abilities. Cases in point: The published input we made to the Joint Chiefs concerning the rationale for continued existence of service academies was pathetic in thought and expression. The lowering of standards reflected in the “leave andcome back” policies knocks the pins right out from the aforementioned issue.

2. The Academy has very effectively transferred many of its pro¬ grams from budgetary funding to AOG funding. Ihave never seen even acursory accounting to the membership for what those programs are, the rationale for their existence, their cost, or their longevity.

3. How does an institution that exists to produce dedicated public servants to protect and defend the nation spawn an AOG heavily in¬ volved in providing commercial goods and services? The answer 1got the last time Iasked this question was “that’s what the membership wants.” If that’s true, then the curriculum needs bee fi ng up in cost/benefit analysis, since Ican get anything offered from dozens of other sources having nothing to do with the purpose of the underlying

institution. Ihave to conclude that “the love of money” has de facto become the prevalent value learned at USAFA.

4. The AOG has passed the critical size wherein an organization becomes aliving entity whose primary activities revolve around its own care, feeding, and growth. In light of the above, Iask “what for?” Afraternal forum is not unreasonable, but USAFA itself was never much of asocial developer.

5. Color me idealistic if you wish, but 1think it is the philosophical template forming the USAFA graduate that distinguishes he/she from the graduates of other educational and ihilitary training institutions. As such, it should be, in my view, the weight of our example as in¬ dividuals, the principles we purport to stand for, and our creative ideas that should be the basis of our influence, not how much money is in our coffers or how large our membership is. It appears to me, as stated above, that the materialistic approach is not working, and is very expensive. Perhaps areview of the model we are following is in order.

If Iam merely misinformed, than you only have aPR problem. 1 am not likely the only member out here wondering. But, if my percep¬ tions are accurate, then you will understand and forgive me for not supporting the organization monetarily. (Not to worry. I’m small potatoes in that department.) There would be, of course, acost saving in taking me off the solicitation list. But, truthfully. I’d much rather resume whatever support Ican afford. Iactually still proudly wear my

ring.

As Istill have faith in the good intentions of all of you who repre¬ sent us in the AOG, and appreciate how difficult the job is, Itrust my comments will be discussed. Perhaps an upcoming magazine issue could be devoted to reviewing “Who We Are, What We Do, and What of Significance We’ve Accomplished Since Inception” “other than getting bigger, more commercial, and more social”.

Warm Regards,

Gerald G. Hartley, Major, USAF (Ret)

Class of ’67

P.S. You may publish this letter if you wish to spark discussion, pro¬ viding you do me the courtesy of correcting any obviously embarrass¬ ing spelling or grammatical errors. However, my intent was to inform you, not to create controversy. If my desires are not in the minority numberswise, these issues would not exist.

Iwill attempt to remain as objective as possible in my responses to each paragraph in his letter, but it will at times be difficult since Ido not know the source of his information or his currency in visiting his alma mater for updates from the Academy and AOG staffs.

You are not quite correct in saying we never “effectively influenced an issue of any import”. You must remember that the “leave and come back” policy (AKA Stop Out, which was terminated in 1994), along with several policies with which the graduate community has voiced concerns, occurred primarily in the mid-1970 and 1980s when your AOG was pretty much in its infancy. However, your AOG, along with the alum¬ ni/graduate organizations of the other academies, was instrumental in that time frame in efforts to enact Public law 101-336. Section 207 of this law restored Vietnam-era GI Bill eligibility for 1977 and 1978 graduates of the academies.

During the past four years the superintendents have afforded the chair(Continued on page 11.)

The Association of Graduates U.S. Air Force Academy VISION

Air Force Academy graduates bonded by acommon heritage and an enduring commitment to integrity, excellence and service to country.

MISSION

To provide leadership and service to the graduate com¬ munity, support for the Academy mission, and preservation of institutional heritage and traditions.

Since

Academy Graduate Takes Reins of the 10th Air Base Wing

By Maj. Les Keffel Protocol, 10th Air Base Wing

Col. Richard H. Downing accepted the flag and command responsibility of the 10th Air Base Wing Nov. 13. He replaced Col. David P. Csintyan.

It should not be diffieult to understand the pride Ifeel in becoming your new commander,” Downing said. “The long list of accomplishments, awards, and recognition that you have com¬ piled, in your first two years of existence is nothing short of amaz-

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Downing is not astranger to the Academy. He first arrived as a doolie” in 1966. He graduated in 1970 and completed under¬ graduate navigator training as adistinguished graduate.

Downing’s assignments have taken him to the Far East and Europe as well as several stateside tours, including Washington, D.C. He’s asenior navigator with more than 2,000 flying hours and has been awarded numerous decorations including the Legion of Merit, Defense Meritorous Service Medal and the Meritorious Serviee Medal with four oak leaf clusters.

The wing’s job is to balance all our functions and activities and to ensure everything we do enhances the Academy’s mission

44 (The AOG Boardroom: From page 9.) man of the board virtually unlimited access to free and open discussion on issues affecting the Academy. In addition, the superintendent and his staff have made asignificant effort to keep the board of directors aware of current activities and future plans (updates also occur at reunions). This has been useful since the board is truly nationwide (16 of the 27 directors reside outside of Colorado), and these updates do assist the directors in keeping the local chapter contingents aware of what is hap¬ pening at their school.

Four years ago, the board established astanding liaison committee in Washington, D.C. to keep our “ear to the ground” for possible issues of interest to the graduate community and to provide AOG input to poten¬ tial Academy issues whenever the opportunity presents itself. Remember, your AOG is anonprofit, tax-exempt organization, and therefore, by law, we are severely limited with regard to lobbying.

Our standing committee has been contacted by Congressional staffers and Pentagon personnel for input on several issues, the latest being the restoration of regular commissions upon graduation and an increase of pilot training assignments for our graduates. We have joined together with the other service academies in order to have ajoint voice when ap¬ propriate.

Iam having some difficulty in determining “the published input we made to the Joint Chiefs for continued existence of service academies...” Ihave researched the AOG records and Checkpoints articles for possible references. The then-superintendent, Lt. Gen. Bradley C. Hosmer, ’59, did publish an article, “Service Academies Fill Country’s Crucial Needs” (Checkpoints, Summer 1993). Iam not aware this was sent to the Joint Chiefs, but Ibelieve in his article General Hosmer did, in fact, articulate the parameters of the issues which occasionally surface in Washington, D.C.

While we are still building our liaison foundation, Ibelieve there is a tremendous potential for the future. BOTTOM LINE: Yes, we can always do better and we are trying each and every day.

Referencing your second point. There has been NO transfer of USAFA programs for funding by the AOG. It is the reality of today’s budgetary and political environment that many Academy programs and re¬ quirements are underfunded. This fiscal constraint is compounded by the aging of the Academy infrastructure and the need to grow and maintain pace with the educational advance of the “Informational Age”. The Academy has continued to be innovative and farsighted in meeting the challenge of fewer dollars while improving all aspects of the Academy in¬ frastructure and educational requirements.

From the AOG perspective, our goal is to provide the “Extra Margin of Excellence” in order to enhance the cadet education and training process. Some of the efforts made by the AOG include the purchase of five highperformance and aerobatic sailplanes, aCadet Competition Flying Team aircraft, permanent endowment of the Cadet Leadership Enrichment Seminar (CLES), erecting the Graduate War Memorial, the Class Wall, the Cadet, Graduate, Officer and NCO Rolls of Honor and the funding of Cadet Squadron Day Room upgrades. Many of these were designed to build esprit de corps and character and enhance dedication to service and country among cadets. It also goes without saying that many of our sup¬

Col. Richard H. Downing, 10th Air Base Wing commander, addresses wing members. (Photo by Eugene Chavez) and quality of life...I understand the unique concerns and talents our myriad customers bring to the table. We have been left asolid ship, and we will continue to pilot it in the right direction. Downing said. (The Falcon Flyer)

>»

port programs are directly aligned with your association’s commitment to maintain and increase the heritage and traditions of our alma mater.

You will see amuch greater emphasis in this area as we pay off the Doolittle Hall building debt, since we will have greater flexibility in our fund-raising activities. One last comment in an effort to set your mind at ease: the bylaws (found in the Register) specifically outline the respon¬ sibilities of the board of directors. We are most diligent in these duties and, in particular, our scrutiny of the annual AOG budget and expen¬ ditures throughout the year. Iam most confident when Istate we take our stewardship of your dollars very, very seriously!

The provision of “goods and services” (your third point) to the membership fulfills two essential needs. First, while many of the older graduates have little or no need for the commercial services provided through the AOG, newer graduates both desire and appreciate the availability of these services. They have the confidence, knowing the AOG is working to provide quality services at competitive prices, that the service providers will be scrutinized to assure honest and ethical opera¬ tions and that in the event disputes arise the AOG will be directly involved to resolve the issue.

Regarding your comment about the need for acost/benefit analysis, allow me to make three salient points: First, there is always a“better deal.” For the AOG to make our services even better, we must have more buying power (i.e.more members). Second, in many cases members do not have access to other “better deals.” Often access is dependent on earnings, past/present military status, credit history, etc. Finally, many members prefer to take part in our affinity programs simply because their participation supports the AOG and the Academy. (Interesting concept don’t you think?)

The AOG specializes in making available Academy and class-specific merchandise to graduates, families and friends who desire to purchase these items. The staff is not frivolous in determining the interest in these products. No one is forced to purchase the memorabilia-based merchan¬ dise, however, the items do sell well. This, in my view, affirms the desire on the part of many in the graduate community for these products. In ad¬ dition, the small profits generated from the sales are used to fund the pro¬ grams supported by the AOG. For example, this coming summer/fall will see reunions for the Classes of 1962, 1972, 1977 and 1987 along with the 30th for the Class of 1967. While the class reunion committees will be coordinating the overall activities, be assured your AOG will be aheavy participant in ensuring the reunions run smoothly, and all classes’ needs and requirements are met. The mailouts, registration, recordkeeping, physical money management, accounting, and contracting (hotels, meals, catering, etc.) are AOG tasks. We do them quite well!

You’d be amazed to find our sister academies provide only aminimal level of reunion services compared to our two to three-year lead time ef¬ forts in planning, coordination and execution. It is nearly impossible to block hotel rooms in the Colorado Springs peak season which runs from May through October (even one year out). The registration fee for each participant does not cover AOG expenses in time, material, equipment and expertise provided to support reunions.

Reunions are just afew of the many services the AOG subsidizes for the (Continued on next page.)

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(The AOG Boardroom: From previous page.)

graduate community through our merchandising and service programs. Other services include; homecoming, open houses, tailgates, and reserved tee times for golfers, just to name afew. Suffice to say, participation in our goods and services programs justifies their existence.

While Irealize that most of us who spent careers in the military have not been subject to the many and varied tormenting problems of having to solicit funds; soliciting funds is the only practical means to meet the needs of the many programs to which your organization is dedicated and charged to fulfill—to provide the lifeblood for the very existence of the organization itself. Such is the normal way of life of anonprofit, taxexempt organization.

The nature of the AOG, being an organization of graduates of auniver¬ sity, would tend to lead one to believe we are solely a“fraternal” organization. NOT TRUE! Our bylaws and the objectives in our articles of incorporation state we are an organization whose purposes are to sup¬ port not only graduates, but the USAF Academy and the cadets. It might appear that our goals are the care, feeding and membership expansion of the AOG itself. THIS IS NOT TRUE! Our objectives are to grow our support for the Cadet Wing and the Academy, in order to provide the “Extra Margin of Excellence” and also to expand the services to the graduate community commensurate with its demands and growth. As each successive class graduates, the pool of graduates expecting AOG support grows, thus the demand for services expands and so does the need for funds to support this demand. Of course this is atwo-way street be¬ tween the graduate community and the AOG. It is not only what we can do for you, but what you can do for your alma mater!

You are correct in assuming that our philosophical template, the prin¬ ciples we purport to stand for, and our creative ideas distinguish USAFA graduates from the graduates of other institutions, but the same may be said of any institution. The influence of organizations such as ours is not “bought”, as might be inferred by your comment, but rather it is “earned” out of respect for past accomplishments. We do not solicit funds to build the influence of our AOG, but rather to support the goals and objectives upon which the AOG was founded.

Most of us who graduated and went on to acareer in the military did so out of adeep-seated love of country and abelief that our chosen career path was aworthwhile way to support our Constitution and assure the continuance of our way of life. Many graduates made the ultimate

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Call (800) 274-6711 for an application. Because if you’re looking for alower rate, now’s the time to hop to it.

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sacrifice in support of the creed of Duty, Honor, Country or, as expressed today. Integrity, Service before self and Excellence in all we do. Though the Academy holds arather lofty position in de fi ning our lives, the Academy was and continues to be aprincipal linkage for all of us—a common bond and heritage that should bring both old and new graduates together through an organization dedicated to our alma mater and graduates.

Many of us have reached apoint in our lives where the reins of military service have ben passed on to those who follow. We take great pleasure and satisfaction in being able to support an Academy that did so much in providing us the opportunity and education to succeed. Through our con¬ tributions to the AOG we can ensure the “Extra Margin of Excellence” for those who follow.

Consider this perspective. We each received one of the finest educations available anywhere; an education reputed to be valued at about $250,000 today. Not only was the education free (our families paid taxes and we sweated blood), but we were paid while attending school. Upon gradua¬ tion we were guaranteed ajob, agood salary, excellent benefit package, open opportunities for promotion and retirement at arelatively early age. The Academy afforded us all as excellent acareer start as can be found anywhere within this country or the world. Of course some elected careers outside military service, but our Academy was the foundation on which we built our career paths.

I, for one, feel an innate satisfaction bordering on an obligation to be able to give back some small token of appreciation for the intense fouryear preparation for life that Ireceived at the United States Air Force Academy. It seems to follow that the AOG represents the organization dedicated to seeing that whatever support Ican afford will be put to effec¬ tive use.

So, let’s start the informational interchange by asking afew questions:

1. Who represents the graduate community at virtually every cadet and graduate funeral held at the Academy?

2. Who sends fl owers to the next-of-kin or makes memorial con¬ tributions in the name of the graduate, on behalf of his/her fellow classmates?

3. Who maintains ahumanitarian fund to assist needy next-of-kin attending funerals at the Academy? (Continued on next page.)

Academy Team Sweeps Aerobatic Competition

By Lt. Col. Tim Taylor, ’78 94th Flying Training Squadron Commander

The Academy’s sailplane aerobatic competition team captured first, second and third place honors in the Sportsman Glider category at the International Aerobatic Club Aspen Leaf Aerobatic Contest in Sterling, Colo., Oct. 4.

Second Lt. Jeff Alexander took first place in flight in two routines and first overall. Cadet 1st Class Greg Muller captured second place and CIC Scott LaRoche took third place. “Basical¬ ly, we swept this year’s competition in the Sportsman category, Capt. Tom Wynn, aerobatic team competition coach, said.

The competition consisted of flying two sequences performed in an aerobatic box measuring 1,000 meters on each side. The se¬ quences consisted of eight aerobatic maneuvers each. “We set up our own aerobatic training box at the Academy’s flightline,’’ Wynn said. “We trained, spotted and graded our own local com¬ petition.

Thirty-four competitors fly both powered planes and gliders in basic through advanced categories. “The Air Force Academy team was very professional and sequenced better with the power aircraft than any other team we’ve seen,” Jim Kessler, the starter and director of safety, said.

Members of the Academy’s sailplane aerobatic team include from left: Capt. Tom Wynn, Cadet 1st Class Scott LaRoche, 2nd Lt. Jeff Alexander, Cadet 1st Class Greg Muller and Capt. Mark Ruthledge. (Courtesy photo)

(The AOG Boardroom: From previous page.)

4. Who manages aclass fund for every cadet class and for every class that graduates from the Academy?

5. Who manages all graduate and nongraduate memorial funds and virtually the entire memorial program on behalf of the Academy?

6. Who fosters an employment opportunities program for Academy graduates, including joint service Academy career conferences, a business resource directory and an employment resume database?

7. Who provides scholarships for dependents of graduates?

Your AOG does all of the above and much more in an extremely costeffective and efficient manner. Of necessity, among the academies we have been the leader in providing services to constituents. Without an en¬ dowment to fund the association’s day-to-day operations, we must choose carefully when anticipating growth in staff and equipment. The board of directors has built astrategic plan which will assist in guiding the AOG staff and board over the next 10 years. It is aliving document which will permit us to adjust as our finances and assets continue to increase. Our staff of 17 full-time and four part-time employees accomplishes vir¬ tually all the same things as our counterparts at West Point and An¬ napolis with equivalent staffs of 60 and 30 respectively. We should all take pride in this quality support. We should also recognize that as the graduate population increases along with our expanded support to the members. Cadet Wing and the Academy, we must expand the staff in an orderly fashion.

Jer, and those graduates who may share your views, allow me to sug¬ gest that you may well be misinformed as to our goals, objectives, pro¬ grams, services and most of all, our accomplishments. Iopenly admit this misperception is not entirely your fault. In the past we have gone about

McGinnis

The Academy aerobatic team has placed in the last two aerobatic regional competitions and has now achieved regional dominance. Besides competing, the cadets and officers answered questions about the Academy and manned astatic display of their glider. The contest directors also asked the team coaches to per¬ form atribute to the memory of Ruth Stevens the last day of com¬ petition. She was another glider competitor who was killed when her aircraft crashed on the competition’s practice day. (The Falcon Flyer)

doing our work quietly and efficiently without much fanfare. Now this approach appears to have been wrong. Therefore, we are actively pursu¬ ing ameans of providing the graduate community with adistinct explana¬ tion of our services, the programs we support and our accomplishments on behalf of the membership. We truly hope to reinvigorate asense of AOG pride in the graduate community, since our strength must come from the graduates, friends and families. No organization is or will be successful without active, measured and informed participation by each and every one of us, including hopefully, the current nonmembers.

Hopefully, all of you who have misinformation or misconceptions similar to Jer’s will elect to return to actively supporting your AOG. It is important for all of us to realize that the AOG was established in 1968, and that “Rome was not built in aday.” This is not an excuse, but the reality that we are growing, sometimes with fits and starts, but always moving forward. We need each of you to be well-informed, supportive and willing to expend your energy and resources to assist—not being part of the problem, but part of the solution.

Jer, we hope to see you at the 1967 30th Reunion, since we missed you at the 25th. Your feedback and letter are important to us, and seeing what is happening first hand could be useful.

Iwill be very disappointed if this rather long and perhaps disjointed ar¬ ticle does not generate some response from the grads. Aspecial thanks to the vice chairman, Jim Brown, ’59, whose diligent research and thoughts greatly assisted in preparing this article.

My intent is to use my spring Checkpoints article to summarize the board accomplishments over the past two years. Additionally, Iplan to briefly outline the challenges your AOG will face in the next two-three years. Best wishes for 1997 and keep smiling.

Character Development Center Welcomes New Director

By Lt. Col. Mick Fekula

The 34th Training Wing’s Center for Character Development recently entered its fourth full year of operation, having been established on Aug. 1, 1993. The organization is operationally aligned under the commandant, with institutional oversight pro¬ vided by the Character Development Commission which is chaired by the dean of the Faculty.

Col. Mark A. Hyatt assumed duties as the director of the Center for Character Development in summer 1996. He replaced Col. David A. Wagie who is now the vice dean of the Faculty.

Colonel Hyatt is a1974 graduate of the Air Force Academy and former AOC and director of Honor and Ethics for the Academy. He also was commander of the 79th Fighter Squadron, and served on the Secretary of Defense staff at the Pentagon.

The center is responsible for directing the development and im¬ plementation of Academy philosophy, methodologies, and assessment efforts for character development. The process of leading and executing character development efforts is ac¬ complished through three divisions within the center: the Character and Ethics Division, the Human Relations Division, and the Honor Division.

Colonel Hyatt’s Academy experience yields strong support for the ongoing character development effort. He says that. Character development has always been important to us. At the heart of our core effort is avision of Air Force Academy graduates who personify our core values of Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do. It is clear that the cen¬ tral aspect of our mission is and must always be character development.

The institution of aCharacter Development Center at USAFA also reflects agrowing national trend toward systematic efforts in character education. Colonel Hyatt states that, “The long-time existence of the Honor Code and programs which emphasize ser¬ vice show that we have always been in the character development business. Because of recent trends and changes in society, Ithink there is aneed to be much more deliberate and systematic in the way that we approach character development. We live in an age of accountability where the American taxpayers demand the highest standards of ethical behavior from military leaders. The center is making aconcerted effort to provide effective character programs, and then to show that they make adifference.

The center offers avariety of programs which focus on cadet character development. The Honor Code and Honor Administra¬ tion System is the oldest and most familiar program. More recent efforts include the Fourth Annual Character Development Sym¬ posium scheduled for this spring, and character development seminars held each semester. The Human Relations Division of¬ fers programs to address issues of growing concern in human rela¬ tions education, diversity management, conflict mediation, and sexual assault. The center also administers community service ef-

forts by linking squadrons with service opportunities.

Last year alone the Cadet Wing provided 40,000 hours of com¬ munity service to base and local agencies. Finally, the Center’s Alpine Tower Facility is an increasingly popular activity that enhances communication, trust, and teambuilding. Cadets climb to heights of 50 feet while relying upon team members for their safety.

Colonel Hyatt sums up his reflections upon all of the center’s activities by saying that, “I have really been impressed by the pro¬ fessionalism and dedication shown by our personnel as they con¬ duct these activities. Character issues can be tough to deal with; for example, administering the honor system is atime-consuming and taxing process but we owe it to cadets and the institution to do it right. Human relations cases often address the most sensitive of all personal issues. Many times Ifind our people wrestling with themselves to ensure fair and equitable treatment is provided to our cadets in their search for an ethical outcome.

One of the center’s major initiatives is afocus on Academy¬ wide staff development. “We have to get the word out,’’ says Colonel Hyatt. “Our efforts are no good in avacuum. It is very important that everyone involved with cadet development in any capacity is informed of our character development efforts. We need to ensure that cadets are not receiving conflicting messages about ethical behavior and good character. This focus even ex¬ tends to Academy supporters off the base, such as cadet sponsors. We need to reach everyone.’’ Colonel Hyatt has already begun addressing this concern by presenting the center mission briefing to various organizations at the Academy. He intends to brief all organizations in the near future.

Although the character development program at the Academy is relatively new, it is quickly becoming acenter of excellence in our nation. The fact that both the Air Force and the Academy have invested considerable effort and resources in building character development programs speaks to the critical nature of the expected outcome; “air and space leaders of character who can be trusted to do what is in the best interest of our nation.

Air Force Releases

T-3A Accident Report

RANDOLPH AIR FORCE BASE, Texas (Air Force News Service)—The Air Force has released the report of its in¬ vestigation into the crash Sept. 30 of an Air Force aircraft northeast of Calhan, Colo. Both occupants of the aircraft, the instructor pilot, Capt. Clay D. Smith, ’89, and the cadet student pilot, Dennis P. Rando, ’97, died in the accident.

In the report, the investigating officer. Col. William W. Hodges, presented his opinion of what caused the accident: This accident was caused by astalled condition from which the instructor pilot was unable to recover prior to ground im¬ pact, and the engine quit for an unknown reason prior to the stall entry.

The aircraft, assigned to the Air Education and Training Command’s 557th Flying Training Squadron, took off from the Air Force Academy at 1:35 p.m. MDT and arrived in the training area at 1:51 p.m. Denver Air Traffic Control last saw the aircraft on radar at 2:13 p.m.

Evaluation of all the evidence, including inspections of the engine and maintenance reports, did not reveal the reason the engine quit. The aircraft was deliveded to AETC March 27, 1996. It received its last scheduled 50-hour inspection Sept. 18.

The Air Force began receiving the T-3A in February 1994. It is used by AETC units at the Academy and at Hondo, Texas, to screen pilot candidates by exposing them to military style traffic patterns and aerobatics. It replaced the T-41 aircraft that was incapable of performing these maneuvers.

Col. Mark Hyatt, ’74

BUILDING FUND DONORS

The AOG Board of Directors acknowledges with sincere appreciation the following contributors who pledged or made cash contributions to the AOG Building Fund and entered the following donor levels during the period from July I, 1996 through January 31, 1997.We encourage others to join these dedicated graduates and friends in this most important project. Contributions and pledges made after January 31 will be listed in afuture publication of Checkpoints.

CONTRAILS DONORS

($10,000 -$24,999)

Mr &Mrs FKeith Withycombe '66

Mr &Mrs Michael WWynne '66 USMA in memory of Maj Patrick EWynne '63 USAFA

FALCON DONORS

($5,000 -$9,999)

In memory of Col Joseph Michael Henderson Jr '65 by Stevie and friends

TALON DONORS ($1,000 -$4,999)

Mr &Mrs Gregory CAdams

Air Products &Chemicals Inc

Don and Linda Alberts

Mr &Mrs Fulton Alexander

Mr &Mrs Larry DAllen

Mr &Mrs William JAllen

Mr &Mrs John Allred

Mr &Mrs Dennis WAnderson

Mr &Mrs CPaul Andrews

Mr &Mrs Harold Andrews

Mr &Mrs Edward DArismendez

Mr &Mrs Marcelino GArmendariz

Mr Bill HAronhime

Mr &Mrs James EBaird

Mr &Mrs Robert Baker

Mr &Mrs Obbie Baker Jr

Mr &Mrs Chris KBames

Mr &Mrs Fariss FBames III

Mr &Mrs Douglas ABarrett

Mr &Mrs William Batiz

Mr &Mrs Michael Battle

Mr &Mrs Dean RBennett

Mr &Mrs Frederic CBenson

Mr &Mrs Daniel RBergtholdt

Ms Janet GBianco

Mrs Pam Bittenbender

Mr &Mrs Dick JBlakemore

Lt Steve LBlevins '94

Mr &Mrs Elias UBolina

Mr &Mrs Walter Bonds

Dr Joel E&Mary PBorkow

Ms Susan HBracken

Mr &Mrs JMichael Brown

Mr &Mrs Vic EBrown

Mr &Mrs Robert Burch

James O&Su CBurgess

Mr &Mrs Edmund FBurke

Bruce &Connie Burton

Ms Dorothy Burton

Lt Col &Mrs Alyosius ACaffrey

Mr &Mrs Medford JCampbell

Mr &Mrs Ivan RCampos

Mr &Mrs David FCanoll

Mr &Mrs Jack LCarter

Mr &Mrs Stephen AChandler

Dr &Mrs John RCharters

Mr &Mrs Gerald WChristians

Dr Jam Clark

Mrs Lynne Clark

Lt Col &Mrs John DCompton

Mr &Mrs Edward PConley

Mr &Mrs Joseph VContardo

Dr James HCooke Jr

Dr &Mrs David RCourtney

Lt Michael SCranston '94

Mr &Mrs Charles HDaling

Mr &Mrs Dameron

Lt Col &Mrs Kenneth MDeGon

The Delta Air Lines Foundation

Maj Frank TDillard Sr

Mr &Mrs Joseph RDillon

Col &Mrs Larry RDipoma

Lt Col &Mrs Michael DiScala

Lt Col &Mrs Raymond DDothard

Mr &Mrs Lawrence Drake

Mr &Mrs Keith CDuffy

Ms Geraldine Dumas

Mr &Mrs Wiliiam DEglinton

Marie Elleby &William LElleby Jr

Mr &Mrs Walker Ellis

Mr &Mrs Donald BFerfolia Sr

Ms Paula AFish

Mr &Mrs Frank Fleming

Ford Matching Gift Program

Mrs Laura MFults

Dr &Mrs Lynn Gabe

Mr &Mrs Joseph PGeaney Jr

Mr &Mrs James Geidel

Mr &Mrs Wilfred CGernandt

Ms Karen AGibbins

Lt Nicola PGismondi '94

Ms Lorraine Giurlani

Mr &Mrs Glenn RGonzales

Mr &Mrs Herbert SGreen Jr

Mr &Mrs James AGreenleaf

Ralinda BGregor '82 and Robert LGregor '83

Mr &Mrs Frederick Gulck

MSgt &Mrs John Hale

BGen (Ret) &Mrs Joel THall

Mr &Mrs Michael DHankins

Drs Gary &Cathy Hannon

in memory of Capt Kimberly Jo (Harmon) Weilhouwer '91

Mr &Mrs Phillip Hanison

Lt Col &Mrs Gary EHartman

In memory of

Capt David A"Hawk" Hawkens '86

Mr &Mrs Gary AHeinitz

Dr &Mrs Don RHenneke

Capt &Mrs John THiggs

Mr &Mrs Randell LHodgkinson

Mr &Mrs Richard RHoss

Lt Col Ernest JHoughton III '68

Ms Elizabeth DHouse

Lt Col (Ret) Henry LHowe '61

Mr HMichael Huber '70

Mr &Mrs Scott AHudson

Mr &Mrs Richard EHummel Sr

Lt Col JStephen Huntley ANG '69

International Paper Company

Foundation

Mrs Avis Tieber Jamieson

Mr &Mrs Thomas Johnson

Maj &Mrs Charles LJones

Lt Col (Ret) &Mrs Dean HJones '61

Maj (Ret) &Mrs Charles WJordan

Mr &Mrs Paul JJoubert

Mr &Mrs Gary Karlene

Lt Col (Ret) Lawrence JKamowski '61

Mr Karl FKellerman 111 '61

Mr &Mrs James FKeough

Mr &Mrs Terry NKilgore

Mr &Mrs Kenneth TKing

Mr &Mrs Rodney Kjarum

Dr &Mrs Douglas AKoehler

Mr &Mrs David Kohout

Col (Ret) John JKohout III '61

Mr &Mrs Oren JKrapp

Mr &Mrs Paul DKremmel

MSgt &Mrs Bobby LLance

Mr &Mrs Daniel CLane

Mr &Mrs Brian DLarson

Mr &Mrs Ernest MLatimer

Mr &Mrs Lai LeDan Tran

Mr &Mrs Ramon JLeeper

Ms Judy Leinius

Ms Diane CMackey

Mr &Mrs Stephen WMagaziner

Cdr &Mrs John BMaher

Mr &Mrs Rogelio Maldonado Sr

Cols (Ret) Donald &Elizabeth Manning

Mr &Mrs Kenneth Marchand

Mr &Mrs Jennings BMarshall

Mr &Mrs Gary LMartin

Mr &Mrs Elden PMarvel (Continued on next page.)

Careful Planning Urged for Control of Your Estate

By Bradford A. Gann, ’83

Estate planning is atask that many of us keep in our “to-do” file for along time before tackling it. Besides forcing us to face some very personal and emotional issues, estate planning is a complex process that involves legal issues, tax considerations and financial planning concerns.

It’s an important task though. Awell-designed estate plan enables you to:

●select the people or charities who you want to receive your assets;

●determine how and when your beneficiaries will receive their inheritance;

Class Rings for ’98

Cadets from the Class of 1998 ordered their class rings this January. Rings will be presented at the Ring Dining-Out in late May. The Association of Graduates has assumed responsibility for class ring procurement. The process involves more than two years of design, culminating in presentation of the rings in May of the cadets’ second class year.

(Building Fund Donors: From previous page.)

Mr &Mrs John SMcCatherin

Mr David McGilvray

Lt Charles RMcGregor '94

Mr &Mrs Michael DMcGuane

Mr &Mrs Michael DMcMahon

Mr &Mrs Michael Medley

SFC &Mrs Robert SMelvin

Mr &Mrs James LMenke

Mr Randolph SMiles

Mr &Mrs Howard LMiller

Mr &Mrs John KMiller

Mr Russell Miller

Lt &Mrs Thomas FMiller

Mr &Mrs William LMitchell

Mr &Mrs Charles FMittenzwei

Mr Richard CMoores

Mr &Mrs John EMurphy

Mary A&Neal TMurphy

Col (Ret) Hector ANegroni '61

Mr &Mrs George FNelson

Mr &Mrs John WNelson

Mr &Mrs Wayne ANelson

Mr &Mrs Richard LNoegel

SMSgt &Mrs Anthony ANutz

Mr &Mrs Robert EOkasinski

Mr &Mrs Richard COldham Jr

Mrs Bonnie EOtt

Jim &Sally Pappas

Ms Ann Parker

Mr &Mrs Arthur LPatek Jr

Mr Joseph Paulo

Mr Bruce RPedey '81

Mr &Mrs Charts Peterson

Mr &Mrs Gerald CPeterson

Mr Terry Pfaffly

Mr Bau Pham

Pharmacia &Upjohn Foundation

Mr &Mrs Herb Phillips

Mr &Mrs Kurt Piel

Mr &Mrs Larry BPittman

SMSgt (Ret) &Mrs William Plies

Mr &Mrs Conrad Raber

Mr &Mrs Robert ERaeth

Mr &Mrs CLRamey

Mr &Mrs Delbert RRaridon

Mr &Mrs Chester ARay Sr

Maj &Mrs Michael LRessler

Lt Deborah LReuther '94

Mr Coolidge ERhodes Sr

Mr John MRice

Mr &Mrs James Ridings

Mr &Mrs Harold Ritzmann

Mr &Mrs William BRoark

Mr &Mrs Keith LRoberts

Mr &Mrs William JRodemoyer

Mr &Mrs Steven ARogers

Mr &Mrs William Rohe

Mr Michael Rose

Mr &Mrs David LRoussel

Mr &Mrs Scott Russell in memory of

● choose individuals to manage your estate, including ex¬ ecutor, trustee and others;

●minimize estate settlement costs; including probate expenses and estate taxes;

● state your wishes regarding guardians for your minor children; and

●assure that you have enough liquid capital to cover burial, settlement and income tax costs.

In short, aproperly planned estate provides adequate liquidity to cover immediate capital needs such as funeral costs and federal estate taxes, and sufficient assets to meet your survivors’ ongoing needs such as education or retirement.

While many people end up doing nothing, some get as far as writing awill. Basically, awill is alist of instructions that tell a judge exactly how you would like your estate distributed. This can help ensure that your property is distributed the way you intend¬ ed, with the best interests of your survivors in mind. Asimple will, however, cannot help you minimize the fees and taxes due upon your death—this is the prime objective of estate planning.

Wills are, essentially, written instructions to the probate court and therefore virtually guarantee probate. The probate process can take agreat deal of time and can be very expensive. If you can avoid it through careful estate planning, you can help your heirs minimize or eliminate attorneys’ fees, appraisal fees, executor’s fees and court costs.

Establishing atrust can be much less expensive than the alter¬ native of going through probate; trusts have been in use for decades. While they have been described as tools of the rich, they are available to everyone.

A“living” trust, for example, will enable your heirs to have ac¬ cess to the estate assets and avoid the complications and fees associated with probate. You also may want to consider other types of trusts, depending upon your situation and goals. Since the needs of each estate are different, the solutions will be dif¬ ferent; trust strategies vary for every estate.

(Continued on next page.)

Mr Vernon LRussell

Mr &Mrs Tula Saechao

Mr &Mrs Chris Schauermann

Mr &Mrs Donald EScherdt

Ms Pamela JSchmad

Mr &Mrs Glenn ESchneider

Mr &Mrs Richard ESchnell

Mr John Schnobrich

Col &Mrs Everett CSchrum

Mr &Mrs Harry Scott

Mr &Mrs Richard SSeiver

Mr &Mrs Terry AShackelford

Dr &Mrs James LShanahan

Mr &Mrs Thomas MSharpe

Maj &Mrs David AShrewsbury

Mr &Mrs Walter Siegenthaler

Lt Steven MSims '94

Mr &Mrs Timothy MSmith

Lt Col &Mrs Walter CSorensen

Mr &Mrs Tim CSouhrada

Lt Col &Mrs Alan BStahl

Mr &Mrs DMike Steele

Mr &Mrs HLStehwien

Mr David TStill Sr

Lt Col &Mrs Gordon BStrom Jr

Lt Timothy GSumja '94

Mr &Mrs Ronald LSumners

Mr &Mrs John FSupinski

Mr &Mrs Walter JSzwarc

Mr &Mrs Kenneth LTemples

Texas Instruments Foundation

Mr &Mrs Edward HThompson III

Mr &Mrs Will Tickner

Mr &Mrs Ronald STodd

Mr &Mrs Patrick LTomlinson

Mr &Mrs MLTorczynski

Mr Stanford ETrinkle

MSgt &Mrs Stephen Twardowski

Mr &Mrs John Velez

Lt Col &Mrs John JVerbanick

Mr &Mrs Thomas GVoelkel

Mr &Mrs David AWalenga

Mr &Mrs Michael LWalker

Mr &Mrs Thomas MWalpole

Mr &Mrs Stacy TWalser Jr

Lt Col &Mrs Robert BWangen

Mr &Mrs Lynn TWard

Mr &Mrs Tom FWard Jr

Mr &Mrs Robert EWeiss

Mr &Mrs Gary WWestby

Mr &Mrs David White

Mr &Mrs Richard GWhiting

Mr &Mrs Robert NWiest

Mr &Mrs James RWilkerson

Maj &Mrs Brian Williams

Lt Col Douglas LWilliams ANG '75

Mr &Mrs Gene Williams

Mr &Mrs James BWilliams

Mr &Mrs Michael JWnetrzak

Mr &Mrs Robert PWolfe

Dr John TWolinski Sr

Mr &Mrs David RWrazen

Mr Larry KYazzie

Mr &Mrs Edward KZeytoonjian

AOG Members May Propose Projects AFA Fund Supports “Extra Margin of Excellence

By Jim Shaw, ’67 Vice President, Development

Your Association of Graduates (AOG) annually solicits dona¬ tions to the Academy through the Air Force Academy (AFA) Fund. The primary purpose of this fund is to raise money which provides “an extra margin of excellence” to the cadet experience. Most of the projects supported by the fund have been recom¬ mended by either the superintendent through the Academy Gift Needs List or members of the association’s board of directors. However, the AOG Board of Directors will also consider pro¬ posals recommended by AOG members which would benefit the AOG membership, cadets and/or the Academy.

All member-initiated proposals must be received by the AOG vice president for Development, not later than March 31. Com¬ petition for the limited funds available is very intense. If you are interested in making aproposal for the board’s consideration, please follow the guidelines and format at the end of this article.

This year’s fund drive included a1997 calendar with photographs of the Academy provided by cadet photographers. The calendar was included in the initial solicitation. In the past, the fund has been used to support awide range of cadet activities to include purchasing aCessna 150 aircraft for competition fly¬ ing, purchasing three ASK-21 sailplanes, and supporting cadet leadership programs. The fund was also used to create and sup¬ port the Humanitarian Fund and the Graduate Dependent Scholarship Endowment, to fund Engineering 410 projects which aid handicapped individuals in the local area, and to support various cadet clubs and squadron projects.

Other fund projects include continuing support of various academic conferences and symposia, purchase of the Lance P. Sijan story for new cadets, and support of many other academic, military and extracurricular projects.

In considering aproposal, the board uses aset of guidelines and criteria which are summarized below, not necessarily in order of priority:

—Fund money will be used for Academy and cadet support, programs for Academy graduates, appropriate projects that build linkages between cadets and graduates, and to enhance the attrac¬ tion and retention of AOG members.

—Fund money devoted to the Cadet Wing and/or the Academy will be used to help provide the “extra margin of ex¬ cellence.” This term means any item which adds to the quality of education, training, and morale of cadets or the level of prestige for the Academy.

—Funding for graduate programs will be directed to projects which provide for professional growth and development, pro¬ mote agreater sense of community among graduates, produce direct graduate benefits, create or expand local/chapter programs and associations, and foster improved ties with the Academy and (Estate Planning: From previous page.)

In addition, estate planning can minimize estate taxes. State and federal governments want ahealthy piece of everything you leave behind, which could significantly reduce the value of the estate your heirs receive. While state estate taxes vary widely from area to area, federal estate tax rates can be as high as 55 percent.

Careful estate planning is an important job; it can save your heirs alot of time, money and headaches. Because of the complex issues involved, you should consider assembling ateam of profes¬ sionals to help you with the process. Atax attorney, an accoun¬ tant and afinancial advisor can make your job easier and can en¬ sure that the best interests of you and your family are provided for adequately.

If charitable giving is part of your long-range plan, you might consider including the Association of Graduates. Contact Jim Shaw (719) 472-0300 for more information.

the AOG. Graduate-oriented programs will be given ahigh fund¬ ing priority.

—Funding emphasis may be given to equipment and facilities acquisition which bear alasting value to the Academy and/or graduate community.

—In most cases, the fund will be used in such amanner as to provide the broadest benefit to graduates and cadets.

—The board will consider favorably the extent, method, and ease of recognition to be given to the AOG and fund donors.

—There will be no quantitative limit on any project funded.

—There will be no limit to the number of projects which can be funded in agiven cycle.

—Fund monies may be set aside for future speci fi ed or unspecified purposes. Multi-year programming for single or con¬ tinuous projects is allowable. ^

—The total cost of fund administration will be borne by the fund.

—Funds will be apportioned solely on the merits of the pro¬ posals presented to and as determined by the board.

Information for AFA Fund Proposals

Please be as brief as possible with each response.

1. Title. Descriptive title of the project.

2. Funding Requirement. List dollar amount. Indicate impact of non¬ funding of requested program.

3. Point of Contact. Name, office symbol, phone number and address of person who may be contacted for additional information on project proposal.

4. Description. Narrative description of the proposed project and desired timing of project funding. Include opinion of overall benefits to be realized by cadets/graduates. Include your opinion of the lasting value and effect of proposal to the Academy, the Cadet Wing, and/or the graduate community.

5. Speci fi cations. Describe components of the program and/or facilities and equipment included in your proposal.

6. Current Status. New initiative, enhancement of existing programs, continuation of existing programs, etc. Has there been aprevious source of funding, and if so, what is current status of that funding? Is federal funding likely?

7. Other Costs. Are there recurring costs and/or maintenance costs in¬ volved in the proposed project that the AOG will be expected to fund? Does the proposal contain amulti-year funding schedule?

8. Recognition. How will AOG and AFA Fund donors be recognized if funding is granted?

9. Sponsor. Department or individual presenting project for con¬ sideration.

10. Other Donors. Are you aware of or have you contacted other fund¬ ing sources for your proposal? If so, what is the status of those investiga¬ tions?

11. Other comments. Include other comments you deem appropriate. Include information regarding the effect of denial of funding or partial funding on your proposal.

Graduate Dependent Scholarships Endowed hy AFA Fund

Did you know that funding for the Graduate Dependent Scholarships (GDS) comes from people like you? Like other exceptionally- worthwhile programs sponsored by your AOG, the GDS is funded through the Air Force Academy (AFA) Fund. The $6,000 awarded this year is interest from funds endowed for the GDS, and through AFA Fund con¬ tributions or other donations.

If you’re interested in contributing to the AFA Fund or to any other AOG-sponsored program, please contact Jim Shaw, AOG vice president. Development. There are numerous cadet clubs and activities which also benefit great¬ ly from your generosity.

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

In ideal weather and with family, friends and classmates pre¬ sent, Norm Campbell made his final approach and landing at Arl¬ ington National Cemetery on Wednesday, Nov. 27, 1996. The memorial service held at Fort Meyers was atribute to Norm as a leader and warrior. The funeral procession followed awinding route to Norm’s final resting place while his flag-draped casket rode on acaisson escorted by the U.S Air Force Honor Guard. The spiritually moving graveside ceremony was punctuated by the roar of the Missing Man Formation flyby. Alone bagpiper dressed in the tartan of the Campbell clan rendered final homage to the Scotchman” (his flying call sign), and afriend left agolf club on the casket in memory of Norm’s passion for the game.

Although born in Ohio, Maj. Gen. Harold Norman “Norm Campbell, (USAF Ret.) gave Key West, Fla. as his home. As a cadet. Norm’s competitive spirit and intense personality were known to many. He was active in bowling, bridge, chess, fencing, shooting, judo, musical groups, horseback riding, and tennis. Norm earned ahumanities major by taking overloads and validating courses; he did read alot.

After graduation. Norm attended pilot training at Reese AFB and finished first in his class (having demonstrated “5-50-5” skills). He was promoted to colonel in 12 years and became the youngest officer to wear eagles since World War II. By the time he retired, he had flown over 4,000 hours, mostly in fighters. Nearly 1,000 hours came in combat in more than 450 missions in Vietnam where he served two tours, one as aforward air con¬ troller in the 0-1 and 0-2, and another in the F-4.

Norm was adistinguished graduate of every professional military education school he attended and became the youngest commander of the 36th Tactical Fighter Wing in Germany during the challenging times of the “Cold War.

His awards and decorations, including the Distinguished Ser¬ vice Medal, Silver Star, three awards of the Legion of Merit, five Distinguished Flying Crosses, Bronze Star, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, 30 Air Medals, and many others, attest to his pro¬ fessional achievements in war and peace. Norm preferred to be an out-in-front leader and not asit-at-the-desk manager. He com¬ bined foresight, an open mind, and apropensity for action in brewing aformula for success. He was impatient with routine and quite willing to challenge dogma when he thought it necessary.

In the final 12 years of his life. Norm was an inspiration and an example of strength. His early and controversial retirement did little to surpress the warrior spirit that we all recognize as the core element of his career and of our friendship with him.

Norm is survived by aloving and caring family: Barbara Patton Campbell, his devoted wife of 33 years; three children, Elaine

Edward Joseph York, Jr., ’70

Clancy, Julie Vuillemot, and Steve Campbell; and three grand¬ children who were his pride and joy. We all owe them our thanks, respect, admiration, and love for being afriend to our friend.

In the words of “Rocket,” one of his many friends: We’ll always smile when we hear your name. You won’t be far, your memories remain.

Go home now dear friend, be at peace. You gave your best, you asked for the least.

As time goes by, our tears will dry, our smile will come, and the sun will shine.

We’ll stand again with our heads held high as we hear the wind whisper, ‘Let’s go fly.

(Stebbins, Negroni and Zompa, ’61)

Edward Joseph York, Jr., ’70

Edward Joseph York, Jr. died of cancer on Aug. 24, 1996 after along, valiant fi ght. Joe’s wife, Joanne, and his children Christopher, Elizabeth and Colin, were first and foremost in his life. He proudly called Joanne “my best friend,” and his children were always nearby in his thoughts. Joe’s love for his family and their love for him was an inspiration to all of us.

Joe had away that touched all with whom he came in contact, and he always made alasting and positive impression. Joe’s heart was as big as his native Texas, and his sense of humor matched the size of his adopted Rocky Mountains.

After graduation in 1970, Joe attended navigator training and was subsequently assigned to C-130s at Dyess AFB. Shortly after checking out in the Hercules, he was diagnosed with Hodgkin’s Disease. Joe recovered fully from Hodgkin’s and was medically discharged in 1974. He took ayear off to ski in Aspen, then enrolled in St. Mary’s Law School in San Antonio, Texas. While there, Joe was amember of Phi Delta Phi and he was an associate editor of the St. Mary’s Law Journal.

After graduation from St. Mary’s, Joe moved to Denver where he became aleader in his chosen profession. Joe chose to specialize in product liability, professional design liability and in¬ surance defense law. Ultimately, Joe founded the firm of York and Associates.

Joe was an active member of the Denver Bar Association, American Bar Association, Colorado Defense Lawyers Associa¬ tion and the Law Club. Joe was also active in community affairs. He was apast president of the Samaritan Counseling Center Board, aboard member of Assistance with Grief and aformer Vestry member at Good Shepherd Episcopal Church. He was ac¬ tive in Cub Scouts and Boy Scouts.

Joe’s mother, Mary Elizabeth Harper York of San Antonio,

Harold Norman Campbell, ’61

Texas, and his sister, Tina York Daniel of Austin, Texas, also sur¬ vive him. Memorials may be sent to either: Good Shepherd Episcopal Church, 8545 E. Dry Creek Rd., Englewood, Colo. 80112, or Edward J. (Joe) York, Jr. Memorial, c/o Association of Graduates, 3116 Academy Drive, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-4475. (Funds to go to the Cadet Library.) (Respect¬ fully submitted by Mike Brown.)

Clay D. Smith, ’89

Captain Clay D. Smith died Sept. 30, 1996 in acrash of aT-3 at the Air Force Academy. He is survived by his wife, Beth; their soon-to-be-born fi rst child, his parents. Chuck and Francia, brothers Jed and Kyle, and thousands of others he had touched while he was with us. Those familiar with Clay know what apro¬ found loss his death is. In comparison, any attempt to describe his life seems hollow and small.

Clay graduated from Jesuit High School in Tampa, Fla. in 1985. His stories of high school years made me wish Icould have enjoyed his friendship earlier than 1had. Clay got to know Beth Poseley while sitting CQ in 10th Squadron on his 19th birthday. So began their partnership, and they were married in May 1991 in the cadet chapel. For those of you who missed it, their wedding and the week before it are still being talked about, and there are a few places in Colorado Springs from which the Smith and Poseley families are still banned today.

In pilot training at Reese AFB, Texas, Clay had the ability to steer discussions towards music, history, philosophy, sports, rela¬ tionships, or just about anything else except the flying training that was otherwise consuming our lives. He seemed to be enjoying more of life, and always invited us to join him there. He had the ability to see irony and humor in every moment, and his humor was contagious.

Col. John Block was the group commander at Reese, and he tells astory of Clay and Beth’s visit to his office one day in 1990. Clay was coming up on assignment, and they were making their pitch for an assignment together. Clay even volunteered for tankers to Minot, if it means we can be together.” Beth had a better idea on what type of assignment they should get and told Clay to be quiet. John Block was convinced, and the couple received a“join-fiancee” assignment flying C-141s at McGuire AFB, N.J.

Clay and Beth climbed twin ladders at McGuire, both upgrading to instructor pilots in the C-141. Their move to the Academy T-3 squadron in June, 1995, allowed them to enjoy out¬ door activities and most of all, each other’s company. This past summer was ablessing for the friends and family who were able to spend time camping, hiking, playing volleyball, and enjoying Col¬ orado with Clay and Beth.

During the last year, the 557 FTS instructors participated in seminars based on Steven Covey’s 7Habits of Highly Successful People. In one seminar. Clay had taken afew minutes to write his

Anthony Joseph Boffa, ’91

own personal mission statement. Clay’s mission statement was found on his night stand in the days following the crash, and was included in his funeral service at the Academy Chapel.

...To make my life ajourney towards true inner peace. To share love with everyone Imeet. To resist the slide back into pettiness and mediocrity. To make integrity the solid founda¬ tion from which Ithink, speak, and act. To help others discover that which is truly important in life. To make the most out of life, living with no regrets. Be an example to others, especially children.

When the funeral was over, we realized that although it had taken Clay less time than any of us had expected, he had still managed to accomplish his mission. Knowing him shaped our lives and he made this world amuch better place.

The Clay Smith Memorial Scholarship Fund has been established for his child, due to be born in February. Please send contribu¬ tions to: Key Bank, 5725 Academy Blvd., Colorado Springs, Colo. 80918. (Jeanne Colder and Jeff Cashman, ’89)

Capt. Anthony Joseph Boffa, Class of 1991, died on Sept. 11, 1996 of injuries sustained when struck by an automobile driven by aTurkish youth outside his apartment in Adana, Turkey. Born Nov. 1, 1969 in Los Angeles, Calif., Captain Boffa graduated from Cairo-Durham High School in Cairo, N.Y. in 1987 and earned adegree in general engineering from the Air Force Academy.

His first duty assignment was to Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz. where he began work in the 355th Civil Engineering Squadron in August of 1991. In January 1995, he was reassigned to the 39th Civil Engineering Squadron at Incirlik Air Base, Turkey, becom¬ ing the executive officer to the commander of the 39th Support Group in June 1996.

Agraduate of Squadron Officer School in residence. Captain Boffa qualified for the Civil Engineer Badge and the Basic Parachutist Badge. His awards and decorations included the Southwest Asia Medal with one device, the Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with two oak leaf clusters, the Air Force Achieve¬ ment Medal and the Meritorious Service Medal (posthumous).

Captain Boffa loved to cook and was not only agourmet cook for his family, but he would share his meals with friends and family. He was an avid reader, and loved to go fishing. He found his greatest joy with his family, especially playing with his two children.

At the memorial service for Captain Boffa on Sept. 31 at In¬ cirlik Air Base, Col. Jonathan S. Gration, commander of the 39th Wing, included these words in his eulogy: “Tony did not only have areputation for having abright mind and exceptional technical competence, but he was also known for those extra, valued qualities he brought to his work place—absolute integrity, strong character, asense of purpose, apositive attitude, and that

Clay D. Smith, ’89

Anthony Joseph Boffa, ’91

great big smile. Ilearned early to seek Tony’s advice and to trust his judgements. But that’s not the only reason 1sought out Tony—I enjoyed his sense of humor, his laughter, his balanced approach to life. He was my friend.

Captain Boffa is survived by Cynthia, his loving wife of four years, his daughter Lindsey, his son Christopher, his parents Joseph and Jerri Boffa, his sister Lisa Boffa, and his dog, Boffa’s Johnny Lobo. The funeral and burial took place at the Air Force Academy on Oct. 4, 1996.

William R. Grace, ’91

Captain William R. Grace, Class of 1991, was killed in the crash of his T-34C aircraft on Dec. 2, 1996 at Maxwell AFB, Ala. He was an instructor pilot with Training Wing Four at Pensacola Naval Air Station, Fla., and was 27 years old. Anative of Fairport, N.Y., Bill is survived by his parents, Robert and Jeanne Grace, his brothers David and Steve, and his grandparents William and Dorothy Tuel.

Bill was easygoing and fun to be around. It would have been diffi cult not to have become friends with him. His terri fi c sense of humor was equal parts “Saturday morning cartoons”, “The Simpsons” and “Calvin and Hobbes”. He loved his family and was always there for his friends: offering help and encourage¬ ment, telling us that we needed to relax and not take things so seriously, or just sharing his gift of laughter.

More so than anyone else I’ve ever known. Bill lived life. When speaking of him. Bill’s closest lifelong friend said, “How he lived his life was playing. Bill never really changed through life. He started with his ‘Hot Wheels’, and ended with asports car. His toys just got bigger. One thing I’ve learned from Bill is that toys are important.

In his free time. Bill could usually be found riding his motorcy¬ cle, biking, or playing sand volleyball or video games. He also loved the water, growing up at his family’s summer house on Sodus Bay, N.Y. Bill was an amazing water skier whose slalom turns seemed more awork of art than an act of physical strength and skill. And he couldn’t resist “hot dogging” on one of his jet skis.

((

While at the Academy, Bill was in CS-24 as afour degree, and CS-15 as an upperclassman. On passes, he took time off with the guys” and his sponsor family, the Bastines. Bill liked taking in movies, setting high scores at video arcades, and sampling the Springs’ “fine dining” at the Chapel Hills Food Court and the Diner. In winter, he enjoyed ski trips in the Rockies and testing the speed limits of his Eclipse GSX on the back road to Breckenridge. After four long but memorable years. Bill graduated with academic distinction.

assignment. Bill literally saw the world, flying over ahundred sor¬ ties which included missions in support of OPERATION RESTORE HOPE in Somalia, OPERATION PROVIDE PRO¬ MISE in Rwanda, and OPERATION UPHOLD DEMOCRACY in Haiti. Additionally, Bill flew missions in support of presiden¬ tial summit meetings in the former Soviet Union, and was per¬ sonally selected to fly PHOENIX SAPPHIRE missions in sup¬ port of weapons-grade uranium removal from the former Soviet Union. After completing Aircraft Commander School at Altus AFB, he upgraded to aircraft commander in February, 1996. Bill reported to the U.S. Navy’s Training Wing Six in June, 1996 for flight instructor training in the T-34C, and began flying instructor sorties with Training Squadron Four in October, 1996.

Although Bill is missed by his family and friends, wherever he is now, the sun is bright and the lake is clear. Aspray of water arcs behind him as he slices aturn on awater ski or ajet ski. And on the shore stands aregulation volleyball court that’s built on the fi nest white sand.

Memorial contributions may be made to the William Grace Fund, in care of the Association of Graduates, Attention: Jim Shaw, 3116 Academy Drive, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-4475. Donations will support asand volleyball court at the Academy. (Nelson Snyder, ’91)

Christopher T. Quinn, ’96

2nd Lt. Christopher Ted Quinn, Class of 1996, died on June 20, 1996 in Calhan, Colo, of Injuries received in an automobile accident. He was born July 9, 1973 in Tucson, Ariz., and was the son of Peter and Vicki (Breezy) Quinn. When he was amonth old, he moved to Houston, Texas, across from the Johnson Space Center where he developed alifelong interest in flying, the space program, school. Scouting, soccer and little league.

When he was 12, he moved to St. Cloud, Minn, and graduated from Apollo High School in St. Cloud with the Class of 1991. He was the recipient of aFalcon Foundation Scholarship, aU.S. Air Force ROTC Scholarship and aNational Merit Scholarship. He was also an Eagle Scout, captain of his high school soccer team, and enjoyed hiking, camping, biking and flying.

Chris’ happiest moments included his acceptance to the Air Force Academy, his acceptance to pilot training at Vance AFB, and his graduation from the Academy. He attended Valley Forge Military Academy in Pennsylvania and while at the Academy he majored in general engineering. Chris had aremarkable zest for life, adesire to achieve and areal love for family and country.

According to his friend from the seventh grade on, Varun Puri, ’95, “I had no idea what awonderful friendship he would bless me with or how suddenly it would end. Chris made life better for his family and friends in away no words can express. I’ll remember him as afriend who never made excuses for what was important, and his family was on the top of Chris’ list.

Chris’ hero was his grandfather. Col. Ted Breezy (USAF (Continued on next page.)

William R. Grace, ’91

Christopher T. Quinn, ’96

Academy Burial Policies/Procedures Outlined

The Association of Graduates receives queries from time to time concerning burial policy at the Academy as it affects graduates, cadets and others. The point of contact for official ad¬ vice on this subject is the Mortuary Affairs Of fi ce at the Academy. USAFA Instruction 34-501 spells out the requirements in detail. This article will attempt to condense the regulation and outline answers to some of the most-frequently-asked questions. Please note this is not an official policy statement.

The Mortuary Affairs Office is available to answer any ques¬ tions regarding funeral arrangements in relation to preparation of alast will and testament. Any funeral conducted on the Air Force Academy grounds will be arranged by the Mortuary Affairs Of¬ fice. Examples of services provided are arranging chapel service; opening and closing of grave; burial vault, bronze marker; full military honors for those eligible; arranging for areception following funeral service; and lodging accommodations if available. For further information, contact Janet Edwards at (719) 333-3323.

Eligibility for interment of remains in the Academy Cemetery encompass numerous categories. All authorized military person¬ nel must have been discharged under honorable conditions.

Graduates of the Air Force Academy, their spouses, unremar¬ ried widow or widower, and dependent unmarried children under age 23 are generally eligible. Dependents over 23 may be eligible under certain conditions. Any subsequent service of the graduate in the Uniformed Services of the United States must have been under honorable conditions and no graduate will be denied inter¬ ment without the approval of the superintendent. Persons eligi¬ ble, who die prior to the death of the graduate, may be interred only if the graduate sponsor signs an agreement indicating an in¬ tention to be interred in the cemetery upon his or her death.

Among other eligibility categories for Aeademy Cemetery (Christopher Quinn; From previous page.)

Ret.) who flew in Korea. The centerpiece of Chris’ room in high school was his grandfather’s flight helmet, which Chris had hoped to wear in the cockpit some day...When he wasn’t accepted to the Academy out of high school, he decided to stick with his dreams and attend Valley Forge prep school on aFalcon Foundation Scholarship. Upon reaching the Academy, Chris put his ex¬ perience to work, and the cadets in Chris’ element will tell you to¬ day that he was atough leader.

In the spring of 1996 all of Chris’ hard work and dedication finally paid off. ‘Grandpa Ted’ administered Chris’ commission¬ ing oath, and Chris was headed to Vance AFB, the base where Colonel Breezy completed pilot training many years before. Grandpa Ted looked forward to the day when he would be able to pin his Air Force wings on Chris’ chest, but that day will never eome. Chris was killed just three weeks after graduation, driving home to Minnesota. Chris, you made every day an adventure and every minute acherished memory for those around you. We miss

you.

Chris is survived by his parents, asister Stacey; two brothers, Michael and Ryan; his paternal and maternal grandparents, numerous uncles, aunts, friends and relatives.

At press time we had learned of the deaths of the following graduates:

Col. (Ret) Thomas E. Koss, Class of 1965, who died on Dec. 8, 1996 in Colorado Springs.

Lt. Col. (Ret) Sterling P. “Pete” Bettinger, Class of 1967, who died of multiple sclerosis on Nov. 26, 1996 in Austin, Texas.

John J. Witt, Class of 1971, who died on Nov. 18, 1996 in Englewood, Colo.

Capt. (ANG) Brian E. Termont, Class of 1984, who died of cancer on Jan. 21, 1997 in Colorado Springs.

Our condolences to the families and friends of these graduates.

burial are cadets, Air Force personnel assigned to the Academy between July 11, 1955 and Sept. 10, 1957; and Air Force crosscommissioned officer graduates of West Point or Annapolis who have retired with at least 20 years of uniformed service. Former superintendents, vice superintendents, commandants, deans, chiefs of staff, appointed directors of Admissions, directors of Athletics, permanent professors, tenured faculty of fi cers, sequential-tour staff officers, (formerly continuous-tour staff of¬ ficers), preparatory school commanders, and Air Base Wing com¬ manders are also eligible, as are senior enlisted advisors. Also eligible are Academy Board of Visitors members with prior distinguished military service.

Air Force military personnel assigned to the Academy or to ten¬ ant units at the Academy at the time of death are also eligible. This does not include non-Academy personnel who are assigned on PCS orders to the Academy Patient Squadron Section of the Academy Hospital. All active and retired Air Force generals and lieutenant generals are also eligible.

For those eligible, grave reservations will not be assigned before an actual interment requirement. When the need arises, written or oral application should be made by the next of kin to Mortuary Affairs, 10th Services/SVMM, 5136 Eagle Drive, Suite P106, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-2618. Only one gravesite will be used for the interment of persons involved in the spouse or parent-child relationship. However, when an infant child is in¬ terred in the child section, the sponsor is still entitled to asite in the adult section.

The decision on whether to inter an individual in the children’s or adult section will be based on whether the casket selected fi ts the gravesite and vault in the children’s section. Also, the family may decide if they want the individual interred in the children’s section or in afamily plot in the adult section. The memorial sec¬ tion of the eemetery is restricted to memorial markers for general¬ ly all eligible individuals whose remains are nonrecoverable, not identified, cremated and scattered, buried at sea, or donated to medieal science.

Funerals are normally scheduled Monday through Friday, be¬ tween 9a.m. and 2p.m. Funerals are not normally held on legal holidays or weekends due to logistical requirements. All funeral flyovers will be condueted in accordance with Academy Instruc¬ tion 11-209, Command Coordination and Control of Aerial Events. The normal flight path for funeral flyovers is south to north.

Remains Buried at Academy After 27-Year Wait

The remains of navigator Maj. Robert C. Davis, ’60, and pilot Lt. Col. James W. Widdis were laid to rest with full military honors at the Academy on Nov. 27th after 27 years of waiting. Widdis and Davis were flying an A-26 Intruder that crashed in Laos on March 23, 1969, after taking heavy ground fire. Their re¬ mains were recovered in 1994 and 1995 by joint U.S.-Laotian search teams.

Jo Anne Widdis, wife of Lt. Col. Widdis, and her two sons. Navy Lt. Cmdr. Daniel Widdis and Air Force Staff Sgt. Douglas Widdis, attended the ceremony. Gary Riccardelli presented an MIA bracelet with Lt. Col. Widdis’ name on it to Jo Anne. Ric¬ cardelli wore the bracelet for 11 years. Irene Garwood, who was married to Davis, also attended the ceremony with her son Robert Garwood.

James Widdis was 29 years old when he was declared missing. He and Davis were flying an armed reconnaissance mission over the Ho Chi Minh Trail he was shot down while trying to protect a wingman. He was declared missing in action until 1978 when Jo Anne asked amilitary review board to change her husband’s status to killed in action.

CHAPTER NEWS ®

Arizona Chapter

Annual AFA AOG Party: To keep up the tradition started by Ron (’71) and Barb Marusiak, and to properly initiate their new residence, Jim (’74) and Chirl Sienicki hosted the annual party for the Arizona Chapter members. There was avery good turnout of AFA graduates and spouses and agood time was had by all.

Golf Challenge: On Dec. 8, 1996, the Semi-Annual 1996 Service Academy Golf Challenge was held. Thanks to John Robin¬ son (USMA) and Mike Cryer (’68) for your efforts in making this asuccessful tourna¬ ment.

Second Annual Super Bowl Party: On Sunday, Jan. 26, 1997, everyone was in¬ vited to Roy Henrickson’s (’72) home to watch the Super Bowl. Starting time was a half hour before kick off. This was apot luck—beer, wine and soft drinks. In addi¬ tion, we honored four retiring Air Force Academy LOCs—Rod Jones, Roy Miller, Jim Tielborg and Doug Frost. We are also coordinating with the West Point Arizona Chapter in selling tickets for achance to win atrip to USAFA from Phoenix to at¬ tend the Air Force-Army game next fall to watch Air Force kick some donkey!

If you have recently moved to Arizona or have not received our mailings, please con¬ tact Jim Sienicki (602) 382-6351 at Snell & Wilmer L.L.P., to be added to the mailing list. If you have not paid your yearly chapter dues ($20/year), for 1996 or 1997, please send your check to John Mahoney, 5326 East Kathleen Road, Scottsdale, Ariz. 85254-1757. (Jim Sienicki, ’74)

North Texas Chapter

The North Texas Association of Air Force Academy Graduates (NTAAFAG) annual dining-in was once again planned by H. Ownby, ’69. This year the event took place at the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport Marriott Hotel in early February. The sur¬ prise of the event was our guest speaker. For Trekers and/or Martians: “If you didn’t come, you will never know.

acknowledge the year-long efforts of Joy Reemtsma, Maj. Gen. Ed Rafalko, Dave Brigman, Jerry and Ellen Ahmann, Jeff Wilson, A1 Richardson, Lance Amnion, and Ron Hale plus the USMA, USNA and USMMA committees. Mark the dates of Oct. 19-20 for this year’s event to be held at the Trophy Club Golf Course.

Field of Dreams -1: From high above the right field foul line at The Ballpark in Ar¬ lington, about 150 alumni viewed our an¬ nual gridiron struggle with Army. Thanks to satellite feeds and multimedia screens, aU enjoyed the telecast. Our Army friends en¬ joyed the outcome and everyone enjoyed the Texas barbecue.

Field of Dreams -II: On aclear and cool December morning near the shadows of the Galleria skyline of far North Dallas, Dave Stonehouse, ’73, led our football team to victory over Navy. His three TD passes overwhelmed an outmanned Navy team (Mr. Roger Staubach was unable to play this year for Navy).

In the championship game on the final play, Dave Stonehouse’s run was stopped just short of the Army goal allowing them to claim this year’s Flag Championship. After the game, Kathy and Tom Stites, ’72,

How To Request Academy Staff as Speakers

In order to provide better assistance to AOG Chapters seeking speakers from the Academy, please submit a letter to HQ USAFA/XPAA, USAF Academy, Colo. 80840-5241, at least six months in advance, with the following information: What, when, where? Who on the Academy staff would you like to have speak at your function? Also provide the names of two other speakers you would like to have if your first or second choice is not available.

hosted abountiful spread including the Ad¬ vil tablets for us ageless Falcons. (John Kuenzel, ’60)

Northern California Chapter

The Northern California Chapter meets quarterly at various locations in the San Francisco Bay area. The chapter met the first Saturday in December for dinner at the Mountain Home Inn in Marin County. If you would like to organize an event, call Dennis Park at 510-634-7689.

If you would like to be on the mailing list for the quarterly meetings please contact Chuck Reed at Reed, Elliott, Creech & Roth, 99 Almaden Boulevard, Eighth Floor, San Jose, Calif. 95113. Telephone (408) 993-9911, facsimile (408) 993-1335, e-mail Chuckreed@AOL.COM. (Chuck Reed, ’70)

Orange County Chapter

Greetings from the Orange County, Calif. Chapter! Once ayear the chapter sends aletter to all known graduates living in the Orange and Los Angeles Counties area highlighting the major events of the past year. The chapter was formed in 1983, initially to help provide information about the Academy for high-quality, prospective candidates in the local area. Since then, we have evolved into aprimarily social and business networking group.

The chapter enjoyed agreat year and in¬ creased membership, thanks largely to the work of our membership chairman, Richard Fairlamb, ’61. Our active members number over 230. An updated North Texas directory was sent to all active members. Thanks for all your hard work, Jim Kuhn,

♦ ’63.

The Fourth Annual Service Academy Golf Classic, covered on page 34 of the fall issue of Checkpoints, was another out¬ standing success. The chapter would like to

To aid speaker preparation, we will also need to know the audience, along with any particular interest of the group in any aspect of the Academy, and arecommended speaker’s attire for the event. Please include who will be in the audience (i.e., alums, spouses, parents’ clubs, LOs, etc.) and what the occasion is for the event.

Apoint of contact for the event (i.e., name, address, home and work phone numbers) is needed to make the appropriate arrangements. You can call XPA at (719) 333-3832, DSN 333-3832, for initial inquiry but must back up your call with aletter re¬ questing the speaker.

Last count showed us with over 50 duespaying chapter members. We usually schedule two AOG golf tournaments at the El Toro Marine Corps Air Station golf course with typically around 20 members playing. Steve Shay, ’71, does asuper job setting up and arranging the teams for these events. Ken Wentzel, ’64, organizes all¬ member meetings at the Of fi cer’s Club following the tournaments where we enjoy libations, hors d’ oeuvres and reminisce about days gone by. This past year we hosted two golf outings in May and Oc¬ tober. Additionally, we received great ac¬ claim for the delicious Wine Tasting Dinner at The Sutton Palace Hotel in Newport Beach, where good food, wine and friend¬ ship were enjoyed in very elegant surround¬ ings. Michael Merrier, ’86, set up, organized, and coordinated the event.

The highlight of the year was afabulous dinner party in August, on board the lux¬ urious Queen Mary in Long Beach, where WW-II fighter ace Ben Drew gave avery colorful presentation followed by great food and drink courtesy of the Queen Mary staff. Bryan Zawikowski, ’89, spent many hours ensuring the event was well attended and enjoyed by all. Fabulous job Bryan!

(Continued on next page.)

Fifth Service Academy Golf Classic Readied

The Fifth Annual Service Academy Golf Classic is in its initial planning stage. Reserve October 19-20 at the Trophy Golf Course near Dallas, Texas on your calendar. Trophy Club features two golf courses designed by Ben Hogan and Arthur Hills and is located 10 miles northwest of the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport.

Rooms will be available for out-of-town golfers at the nearby Marriott Solana at very reasonable rates. This is the only NCAAsanctioned tournament that features direct competition between cadets and midshipmen from the Air Force Academy, the U.S. Military Academy, the U.S. Naval Academy and the U.S Mer¬ chant Marine Academy.

An outstanding team effort by the Air Force Academy golf team last year brought the Bill Reemtsma Memorial Trophy to the Air Force for another year. The unique tournament also offers graduates and friends of the academies the opportunity to sup¬

(Chapters: From previous page.)

Finally, afew members trekked out to Las Vegas in September to watch the Falcons prey upon UNLV. Overall, we had agreat year with numerous activities for all to en¬ joy. You can support your AOG by attend¬ ing one of these events. Hope to see you there in ’97!

For 1997 we have tentatively scheduled the following events: February 7, wine tasting dinner; April, March of Dimes 5K run/walk; May, golf tournament and membership meeting; July, aspecial event; August, golf tournament and membership meeting; and October, another wine tasting dinner.

The planning and direction for the chapter’s activities is still entrusted to a loosely-federated group we call the chapter’s “Steering Committee.” This group is currently comprised of interested graduates (spread from ’63 to ’89) of whom six or seven are relatively active par¬ ticipants. The steering committee meets on abi-monthly basis at Scott Jackson’s law office in Irvine. Any graduate who is in¬ terested in working on the steering commit¬ tee is encouraged to attend one of these meetings. We encourage all graduates in the area to join us.

The chapter’s steering committee has developed aresume book for networking

port their Academy through donations and participation in atwoday tournament that includes 36 holes of golf, Texas-style food and beverages, prizes, fun, and the opportunity to socialize with old friends and foes.

Almost 300 guests attended the 1996 Awards Banquet that featured Air Force Chief of Staff General Ron Fogleman, USAFA ’63. Watch future Checkpoints articles for more details on the tournament. If you would like to be asponsor or know that you would like to participate in this event, please call Jerry Ahmann, USAFA ’63, at (817) 481-7284.

USAFA

and job- fi nding purposes, and we en¬ courage all members to participate. We are aselect group of people, and our members are active, successful leaders and profes¬ sionals. We have acommon bond of educa¬ tion and experience, have learned the value of depending on each other, and know the bene fi ts of being reliable, participating members of ateam. We all have something to offer whether it be professional services, business opportunities, employment counseling in all our areas of expertise, or many other unique areas. If you’re in¬ terested in this Networking Program, please call Mike Mercier, ’86, who is in the job placement business, in the evenings, at (714) 251-9079 for further information.

Those who are interested in serving as Air Force Academy liaison officers should con¬ tact Denny Shields, ’71, at (714) 249-6942. If you wish to become amember of the local AOG, or if you just wish to receive in¬ formation about chapter activities, please call Scott Jackson, ’67, at (714) 851-7427 or Ken Wentzel at (909) 481-3114. (F. Scott Jackson)

Puget Sound Chapter

Greetings from the Pacific Northwest! Another year has quickly passed and we ended it with aboom. In October we had our annual Northwest Chapter Golf Tour-

nament. Well, actually our first but who’s counting. About 12 grads enjoyed the greens and soggy grass of Washington. A little bit of clouds and alittle bit of sunshine added to the enjoyment of the links. Steve Flewelling, ’87, crunched afew drives and John Banbury, ’69, finessed the greens. It’s ashame Arnold Palmer wasn’t around, we could have used some pointers. Steve blames his play on the distraction caused by Air Force’s victory over Notre Dame earlier that day. Yeah right, Steve! Save the ex¬ cuses for next year.

Also in October the chapter enjoyed the annual Intra-Service Academy Dining Out. About 13 grads and friends joined grads of Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and Kings Point for an evening of good cheer. Con¬ gressman Norm Dicks was the guest speaker and spoke about the military budget and the difficulties facing our military today. It was agreat evening enjoyed by dl.

In the near future we’ll be holding our annual “Dark Ages Party”. This is our yearly “winter” get-together of the local contingent traditionally held in the spring. I don’t know if we’ll ever get our planning calendar straight. The chapter’s member¬ ship drive is still active. If you are interested in joining us please contact Steve Flewelling at (206) 271-6606 or Joe Cavazzini,’82, at (206) 742-7630. (Joe Cavazzini)

The “Chief’s Fivesome” at the Fourth Annual Service Academy Golf Classic includes from left, Rob Polumbo, ’84; Ed Rafalko, USMA, ’45; Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. Ron Fogleman, ’63; former Academy athletic director Ken Schweitzer, and Academy golf coach Gene Miranda. The team finished third for

The Air Force Academy golf team which won the Fourth An¬ nual Service Academy Golf Classic in Dallas this past October poses with golf coach Gene Miranda, at left, and Col. Dick Lee, at right.

Football Loss Launches AOG “Hawaii Branch” Scrubbing

Checkpoints

Association of Graduates

Doolittle Hall, USAFA, CO

Dear Font of All Graduate Knowledge,

Thought you might be interested in the attached article provid¬ ed by the Honolulu Branch of the AOG News Service (ok, Idid it). The USAFA grads serving in PACOM’s Joint Intelligence Center Pacific (JICPAC) bet the JICPAC commander (a squid) on the outcome of the USAFA-USNA football game. The story describes the sorry event that followed, but one in which the true spirit and generosity of the former zoomies blossomed true.

You see. Captain Rick Porterfield (USNA ’72) had the poor sense to buy aused car from adeparting USMA grad. With the islands’ salt air and humidity, he had less of acar than he original¬ ly purchased. Losing the bet provided the grads the opportunity to leave their boss with more of acar than he had before...in¬ cluding anew USAFA decal and license plate holder. The dif¬ ference was so amazing, it was as if they had given him anew car!

In all seriousness, thought this might provide some fodder for your pages. As you can see abunch of classes were involved, so I don’t know exactly where: maybe Chapter News (even though, as far as Iknow, there is no chapter here). Rick is agreat guy, and he has seen this article and approved it (he then provided the two pic¬ tures which are attached).

You might pass on to my class scribe that, even in retirement, my supervisory skills (see article) are as sharp as ever. Iwatched closely with acold one in my hand from under the palm trees and deftly pointed out areas that had been missed. It’s adifficult job being retired here in Paradise, but someone has to do it. My wife Linda, ’84, works as adivision chief in JICPAC and I’m putting my time to good use practicing up for the Senior Tour at the Kaneohe Klipper—the Pebble Beach of Oahu—at the Marine base and doing some writing and occasional consulting. That’s enough for now, or he’ll get spoiled.

Thanks for your time and consideration.

Greg Varhall, ’68

Atch: JICPAC article

USAFA Grads Provide Navy Commander With Car

(Honolulu, AOG News Service) USAFA graduates recently took pity on their Joint Intelligence Center Pacific (JICPAC) Navy commander. Captain Richard B. Porter¬ fi eld, after the USAFA football loss to Navy. Captain Porterfield, a’72 Canoe U. graduate, had bet the JICPAC Zoomies on the outcome of the game—his parking space versus acar wash and wax. While the game’s final score was adisappointment to the JICPAC USAFA graduates, when

May the Force be with you!

they saw the condition of their boss’s car, they saw an op¬ portunity to help someone in need.

Headed by Major John Aikens, ’82, and comprised of an expert team of washer/waxers (“wax on/swish, swish; wax off/counter-swish, counter-swish”), the USAFA Grad Team viewed the 0-6’s car with horror. An import bought from aUSMA grad, the car was deteriorating fast! Quick thinking saved the day, as epoxy was applied to the wheel rims and lower body sills as soon as the water had dried! The team was comprised of Majors Aikens and Linda Urrutia-Varhall, ’84, Captains Mindy Seagraves (Hartley), ’88; Mark Damiano, ’89; Steve Kiser, ’90; and Oleg Borukhin and Paul Williams, both ’92; First Lieutenants Breck and Julie Morrison (Nep), both ’93, and Baker Beard, ’94; and Second Lieutenant Joel England, ’95. Oversight (for whatever it was worth) was provided by Lt. Col. Greg Varhall, ’68 (Ret).

The USAFA team—proud in its accomplishment of hav¬ ing given their commander acar that would last for another 10,000 miles (no warranties, written or implied, are implicit in this article)—saw that their commander now has an “almost new” car partially held together by a “USAFA—Go Falcons” rear window decal and aUSAFA license plate holder.

Academy Flying Team Takes 12th Consecutive

Title

By 2nd Lt. Develyn Watson Falcon Flyer Staff

For the 12th consecutive year, the Air Force Academy Flying Team took first place in the Safety Conference of the National In¬ tercollegiate Flying Association during the 1996 regional competi¬ tion held Oct. 10-12 in Greeley, Colo.

Everyone’s hard work has made the achievement of our mis¬ sion ‘to fly and win’ possible,” Cadet First Class Keith Gempler, team captain, said. “This mission oriented attitude is the most important thing we have taken with us from this victory and I believe it will continue to serve us as we graduate and become of¬ ficers.” The 21-member team competed against four colleges in 13 events and scored acombined total of 339 points. The closest competitor had 160 points.

What’s unique about our program, is that our team members practice on their free time,” Capt. Gerald “Peaz” Peaslee, flying team commander, said. “At other schools, the people they send to compete are earning degrees in these areas. They get to do this all the time. Our team has to make time to practice.

The cadets finished in first place in the overall school ranking, (Continued on next page.)

The USAFA Wash Squad

The Secret Life of Waldo F. Dumbsquat

By Don Hall, ’76

The million candle power light glared down into Waldo’s eyes.

(<

Here, Dumbsquat, wear these protective goggles,” chortled the dental technician.

Waldo donned the scratched green sunglasses.

<(

Do these provide any UV ray protection?” asked Waldo innocently. He could feel himself beginning to tan under the light.

<(

Harmful radiation is the least of your worries,” laughed the tech. “Now, just sit back and relax!

The doolie wished he was back in the waiting room—reading the ancient magazines.

The dental assistant rolled atray of drills and picks under the freshman’s nose.

(( >»

Okay, now let’s take your blood pressure.

The black band was wrapped seventeen times around the puny arm of Waldo F. Dumbsquat. Squeezing torturously, the device increased the doolie’s hat size by two.

<(

Ican’t imagine why your blood pressure is so high,” mused

the dental professional. “No matter. Just stand by for the dentist and he’ll have those stupid wisdom teeth out in no time!

Wisdom teeth? Waldo was here for aroutine exam! Before the doolie could protest, the technician began shoving things into Waldo’s mouth. First came the gauze rolls, then the suction tube. Relentlessly, the vacuum cleaner attacked Waldo’s tongue. After two take-downs, Waldo knew he was losing the wrestling match.

Then came the needle. Waldo panicked and slid from the chair. The freshman ducked into the x-ray room. He felt it was agood thing he still had his protective glasses on. Mumbling the secret words, “tickle me Elmo’’, Waldo transformed into the heroic Colonel Waldo F. Dumbsquat. The officer was alarge man—so large he wore real eagles on his shoulders for rank. Colonel Dumbsquat strode to the dental hobby shop appointment desk.

Listen up and listen hard, mister. Iwant all wisdom teeth surgery cancelled. All personnel without wisdom teeth are to be issued new ones—particularly Command Post. That is alt.

(( ((

Yes, sir!” exclaimed the shaken clerk.

The colonel found an empty coat closet and degenerated into his pitifull doolie shape. All was right with the world once again.

Waldo groaned. ^

Hopefully, gauze was good fiber... ^|C ***!(<

Cadets Put Best Feet Forward at Presidential Inauguration

By 1st Lt. Laurel Scherer Directorate of Public Affairs

Ninety-two cadets representing Cadet Squadron 32 participated in the Presidential Inaugural Parade Jan. 20 in Washington, D.C. The “Roadrunners” of CS-32 were selected to participate as a result of earning the Cadet Wing’s “Honor Squadron” title for 1996.

The honor squadron is the squadron with the best overall military, academic and athletic performance during the course of aschool year. The cadets in CS-32 are proud to be representing the Academy at the inauguration, according to Capt. Greg Mc¬ Carthy, CS-32 Air Officer Commanding.

They have all worked hard to earn the title of ‘Honor Squadron,’ and this is achance for them to be rewarded for their efforts as they represent the Cadet Wing in front of the entire na¬ tion,” McCarthy said.

Cadet 4th Class Clark Mabry, whose parents are currently sta¬ tioned at Bolling Air Force Base in Washington, D.C.

“It is agreat honor for me being from Sri Lanka,” said Cadet 2nd Class Uditha Piyasena. “Not alot of people from my country are able to participate in an inauguration parade.

*y

The cadets of CS-32 came from 31 different states and two dif¬ ferent countries. “Everyone in the squadron worked extremely hard to be able to have this opportunity, everyone contributed to this achievement,” said Cadet 3rd Class Matthew Taraborelli, on behalf of the Roadrunners.

The Academy has participated in the inaugural ceremony since 1957, when President Dwight D. Eisenhower was inaugurated for his second term in of fi ce. (The Falcon Flyer)

It’s an honor to be apart of such asignificant event,” said Cadet 1st Class Tanji Johnson, CS-32 commander. The Academy produces some of the finest leaders of our nation, and I’m honored to be apart of that,” Johnson added.

“I think it is afantastic chance for people to get aview of Academy cadets, who they’ve probably never seen before,” said

(( (Flying Team: From previous page.)

((

flying and ground events. CIC Greg Pickette was selected as the Top Pilot,” and he also placed first in the short field landing category.

Other first place finishers include: CIC Kevin Sutterfield, air¬ craft recognition, and also placing first in the navigation event with partner C3C Sonny Hignite. C2C Stephen Olson, message drop and CIC Jeff Cohen, simulator.

Not to be overlooked were the performances of the newer team members. C3C Shawn Dinning placed second in the simulated compressive air navigation event, quite aremarkable achievement for afirst-year team member. The team is scheduled to compete at the national championships in Michigan in April. Last year, the team took first place in the flying events and won the national safety award. The Falcon Flyer)

Put It on My Tab

Lt. Gen. PaulE. Stein, Academy superintendent, bought lunch for Naval Academy exchange students in December making good on adebt owed to Naval Academy Superintendent Adm. Charles Larson concerning the outcome of the Air Force/Navy football game. Last year Larson bought lunch for Air Force Academy ex¬ change students. (Photo by Charlie Elms)

Retired General Urges Elimination of Nuclear “Beast

By Lee Butler, ’61

(Editor’s note: This speech, by retired Air Force Gen. (George) Lee Butler, ’61, was presented to the National Press Club on Dec. 4, 1996 in Washington, D.C.)

Thank you, and good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. Let me say first that Iam both professionally honored and intellectually comforted to share this rostrum with General Andrew Goodpaster. He has long set the standard among senior military officers for rigorous thinking and wise counsel on national security matters. He has been arole model for genera¬ tions of younger officers, and most certainly was for me. His views on the risks inherent in nuclear weapons and the consequences of their use have long been amatter of public record. Ifound them very compelling as I made the long and arduous intellectual journey fr6m staunch advocate of nuclear deterrence to public proponent of nuclear abolition.

This latter role is not one that Iever imagined nor one that Irelish. Far from it. Ihave too much regard for the thousands of men and women who served under my command, and the hundreds of colleagues with whom Ilabored in the policy arena, to take lightly the risk that my views might in any way be construed as diminishing their service or sacrifice. Quite to the contrary, Icontinue to marvel at their skill and will always be immensely gratified by their intense devotion.

Iwould simply ask them to understand that Iam compelled to speak, by concerns Icannot still, with respect to the abiding influence of nuclear weapons long after the Cold War has ended. 1am here today because I feel the weight of aspecial obligation in these matters, aresponsibility born of unique experience and responsibilities. Over the last 27 years of my military career, Iwas embroiled in every aspect of American nuclear policy making and force structuring, from the highest councils of govern¬ ment to nuclear command centers; from the negotiating table to cramped bomber cockpits and the confines of ballistic-missile silos and sub¬ marines. Ihave spent years studying nuclear weapons effects, inspected dozens of operational units, certified hundreds of crews for their nuclear mission and approved thousands of targets for destruction. 1have studied adistressing array of accidents and incidents involving strategic weapons and forces. Ihave read alibrary of books and intelligence reports on the Soviet Union and what were believed to be its capabilities and intentions...and seen an army of experts confounded. As an advisor to the President on the employment of nuclear weapons, Ihave anguished over the imponderable complexities, the profound moral dilemmas and the mind-numbing compression of decision-making under the threat of nuclear attack.

Icame away from that experience deeply troubled by what Inow see as the burden of building and maintaining nuclear arsenals; the increasingly tangled web of policy and strategy as the number of weapons and delivery systems multiply, the staggering costs, the relentless pressure of advanc¬ ing technology, the grotesquely destructive war plans, the daily opera¬ tional risks, and the constant prospect of acrisis that would hold the fate of entire societies in the balance.

Seen from this perspective, it should not be surprising that no one could have been more relieved than was Iby the dramatic end of the Cold War

Address Wrong for Jimmie Butler's New Book

The address published in the Fall 1996 magazine to order ACertain Brotherhood, the third and newest novel by Col. Jimmie H. Butler, USAF, Retired, Class of 1963, was in er¬ ror. Instead of 5550 Delmonico Drive, D-215, the address should read: Cricket Press, 6660 Delmonico Drive, D-215, Colorado Springs, Colo. 80919. Autographed copies of Jimmie’s self-published book can be ordered at this address by mail for $9.99 plus $3.00 shipping and handling.

ACertain Brotherhood is asemi-autobiographical ac¬ count of ayoung officer (USAFA graduate) trying to over¬ come the effects of atraumatic event he experienced in pilot training. Still haunted by that event when he’s sent to be a Forward Air Controller (FAC) at Nakhon Phanom Thai Air Force Base in Thailand, Mitch McCall questions his own abilities and envies the carefree flying skills of his roommate, J.D. Dalton.

For acomplete book review on this fact-based story, see page 19 of the Fall 1996 issue of Checkpoints.

and the promise of reprieve from its acute tensions and threats. The democratization of Russia, the reshaping of Central Europe...! never im¬ agined that in my lifetime, much less during my military service, such traordinary events might transpire. Even more gratifying was the oppor¬ tunity, as the commander of U.S. strategic nuclear forces, to be intimate¬ ly involved in recasting our force posture, shrinking our arsenals, drawing down the target list, and scaling back huge impending Cold War-driven expenditures.

Most importantly, 1could see for the first time the prospect of restoring aworld free of the apocalyptic threat of nuclear weapons.

Over time, that shimmering hope gave way to ajudgement which has now become adeeply held conviction: that aworld free of the threat of nuclear weapons is necessarily aworld devoid of nuclear weapons. Permit me, if you will, to elaborate on the concerns which compel this convic¬ tion.

First, agrowing alarm that despite all of the evidence, we have yet to fully grasp the monstrous effects of these weapons, that the consequences of their use defy reason, transcending time and space, poisoning the earth and deforming its inhabitants. Second, adeepening dismay at the pro¬ longation of Cold War policies and practices in aworld where our securi¬ ty interests have been utterly transformed. Third, that foremost among these policies, deterrence reigns unchallenged, with its embedded assump¬ tion of hostility and associated preference for forces on high states of alert. Fourth, an acute unease over renewed assertions of the utility of nuclear weapons, especially as regards response to chemical or biological attack. Fifth, grave doubt that the present, highly discriminatory regime of nuclear and non-nuclear states can long endure absent acredible com¬ mitment by the nuclear powers to eliminate their arsenals. And finally, the horrific prospect of aworld seething with enmities, armed to the teeth with nuclear weapons, and hostage to maniacal leaders strongly disposed toward their use.

That being said, let me hasten to add that Iam keenly aware of the op¬ posing arguments. Many strategists hold to the belief that the Cold War world was well served by nuclear weapons, and the fractious world emerg¬ ing in its aftermath dictates that they will be retained...either as fearsome weapons of last resort or simply because their elimination is still aUto¬ pian dream. Ioffer in reply that for me the Utopian dream was ending the Cold War. Standing down nuclear arsenals requires only afraction of the ingenuity and resources as were devoted to their creation. As to those who believe nuclear weapons desireable or inevitable, Iwould say these devices exact aterrible price even if never used. Accepting nuclear weapons as the ultimate arbiter of conflict condemns the world to live under adark cloud of perpetual anxiety. Worse, it codifies mankind’s most murderous in¬ stincts as alegitimate basis of warfare.

Others argue that nuclear weapons are still the essential trappings of superpower status; that they are avital hedge against aresurgence of virulent Soviet-era communisism; that they will deter attack by weapons of mass destruction; or that they are the most appropriate choice for response to such attack.

To them Icontend that proliferation cannot be contained in aworld where ahandful of self-appointed nations both arrogate to themselves the privilege of owning nuclear weapons, and extol the ultimate security assurances they assert such weapons to convey. That overt hedging against born-again. Soviet-style hard-liners is as likely to engender as to discourage their resurrection. That elegant theories of deterrence wilt in the crucible of impending nuclear war. And, finally, that the political and human consequences of the employment of anuclear weapon by the United States in the post-Cold War world, no matter the provocation, would irretrievably diminish our stature. We simply cannot resort to the very type of act we rightly abhor.

Is it possible to forge aglobal consensus on the propositions that nuclear weapons have no defensible role; that the broader consequences of their employment transcend any asserted military utility; and that, as true weapons of mass destruction, the case for their elimination is a thousandfold stronger and more urgent than for deadly chemicals and viruses already widely declared immoral, illegitimate, subject to destruc¬ tion and prohibited from any future production?

Iam persuaded that such aconsensus is not only possible, it is im¬ perative. Notwithstanding the uncertainties of transition in Russia, bitter enmities in the Middle East or the delicate balance of power in South and East Asia, 1believe that aswelling global refrain will eventually bring the broader interests of mankind to bear on the decisions of governments to retain nuclear weapons. The terror-induced anesthesia which suspended rational thought, made nuclear war thinkable and grossly excessive arsenals possible during the Cold War is gradually wearing off. Arenewed

(Continued on next page.)

Graduates Nominated to One- and Two-Star Rank

Seven Air Force Academy graduates have been nominated by President Clinton to the rank of major general and another 18 were nominated to brigadier general. Total Air Force nominees were 24 for asecond star and 47 from colonel to one star.

Nominees to major general and their assignments at the time of nomination included in the Class of 1968, Charles Holland, com¬ mander, Special Operations Command Paci fi c, U.S. Paci fi c Command, Camp H.M. Smith, Hawaii. Class of 1969: Maxwell Bailey, deputy commanding general. Joint Special Operations Command, U.S. Special Operations Command, Fort Bragg, N.C.; Thomas Keck, director of strategy, policy and plans, U.S. Southern Command headquarters, Panama; William Moore, director of special programs, office of the undersecretary of defense for acquisition and technology, the Pentagon; and Charles Wax, director of forces, office of the deputy chief of staff for plans and operations, the Pentagon.

In the Class of 1970, nominees to major general were Roger Radcliff, Joint Chiefs of Staff representative for the Conference on Security and Cooperation in Europe, the Pentagon; and Thomas Waskow, chief of staff. Allied Air Force Southern Europe, NATO, Vincenza, Italy.

Graduates nominated for brigadier general include from the Class of 1971, Teddie McFarland, deputy for aeronautical systems, office of the undersecretary of defense for acquisition and technology, the Pentagon. Class of 1972: Barry Barksdale, commander, 355th Wing, Davis-Monthan AFB, Ariz.; Tommy Crawford, inspector general. Pacific Air Forces headquarters, Hickam AFB, Hawaii; Robert Dierker, chief, joint plans and operations section. Supreme Headquarters, Allied Powers,

(Nuclear Beast: From previous page.)

appreciation for the obscene power of asingle nuclear weapon is coming back into focus as we confront the dismal prospect of nuclear terror at the micro level.

Clearly the world has begun to recoil from the nuclear abyss. Bombers are off alert, missiles are being destroyed and warheads dismantled, former Soviet republics have renounced nuclear status. The NonProliferation Treaty has been indefinitely extended, the Comprehensive Test Ban Treaty is now ade facto prohibition, and START II may survive yet adeeply suspicious Duma. But, there is amuch larger issue which now confronts the nuclear powers and engages the vital interest of every na¬ tion: whether the world is better served by aprolonged era of cautious nuclear weapons reductions toward some indeterminate endpoint or by an unqualified commitment on the part of the nuclear powers to move with much greater urgency toward the goal of eliminating these arsenals in their entirety.

Ichose this forum to make my most direct public case for elimination as the goal, to be pursued with all deliberate speed. Ifirmly believe that practical and realistic steps, such as those set forth by the Stimson Center study, or by the Canberra Commission on the Elimination of Nuclear Weapons, can readily be taken toward that end. But Iwould underscore that the real issue here is not the path—it is the willingness to undertake the journey. In my view, there are three crucial conditions which must first be satisfied for that journey to begin, conditions which go to the heart of strongly-held beliefs and deep-seated fears about nuclear weapons and the circumstances in which they might be used.

First and foremost, is for the declared nuclear-weapons states to accept that the Cold War is, in fact over, to break free of the norms, attitudes and habits that perpetuate enormous inventories, forces standing alert and targeting plans encompassing thousands of aim-points.

Second, for the undeclared states to embrace the harsh lessons of the Cold War: that nuclear weapons are inherently dangerous, hugely expen¬ sive and militarily inefficient; that implacable hostility and alienation will most certainly over time lead to anuclear crisis; that the failure of nuclear deterrence would imperil not just the survival of the antagonists, but of every society; and that nuclear war is araging, insatiable beast whose in¬ stincts and appetites we pretend to understand but cannot possibly con¬ trol.

Third, given its crucial leadership role, it is essential for the United States to undertake as afirst order of business asweeping review of its nuclear policies and strategies. The Clinton administration’s 1993 Nuclear Posture Review was an essential but far from sufficient step toward rethinking the role of nuclear weapons in apost-Cold War world. While

Europe, Belgium; Jerry Drennan, commandant. Air Command and Staff College, Maxwell AFB, Alabama; Edward LaFountaine, commander, 374th Airlift Wing, Yokota AB, Japan; Paul Nielsen, command director, Cheyenne Mountain Operations Center, Cheyenne Mountain AS, Colo.; Klaus Schafer, command surgeon. Air Combat Command headquarters, Langley AFB, Va.; Charles Simpson, chief, policy division, strategic plans and policy, office of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Pentagon; and Craig Weston, program director, space-based infrared systems. Space and Missile Center, Los Angeles, Calif.

Nominees from the Class of 1973 include Jeffrey Kohler, senior U.S. representative. Allied Air Forces, Central Europe, Ramstein Air Base, Germany; and Bruce Wright, director of operations, U.S. Forces Japan, Yokota AB. Class of 1974: Joseph Kelley, command surgeon. Pacific Air Forces headquarters; Christopher Kelly, commander, 100th Air Refueling Wing, Royal AFB, Mildenhall, England; Duncan McNabb, commander, 62nd Airlift Wing, McChord AFB, Wash.; and Richard Mentemeyer, ex¬ ecutive officer to the commander in chief, U.S. Transportation Command and Air Mobility Command, Scott AFB, 111.

Bentley Rayburn, commander, 388th Fighter Wing, Hill AFB, Utah; and Glenn Waltman, military assistant to the secretary of the Air Force, Pentagon, were the nominees from the Class of 1975.

(Editor’s note: This information was gathered from numerous official and unofficial sources and may be incomplete. If we missed someone or if we published inaccurate information, please let us know.)

clearing the agenda of some pressing force structure questions, the NPR purposefully avoided the larger policy issues.

Moreover, to the point of Cold War attitudes, the Review’s justifica¬ tion for maintaining robust nuclear forces as ahedge against the resurgence of ahostile Russia should be seen as regrettable from several aspects. It sends an overt message of distrust in an era when building a positive security relationship with Russia is arguably the United States’ most important foreign-policy interest. It codifies force levels and postures completely out of keeping with the historic passage we have witnessed in world affairs. And, it perpetuates attitudes which inhibit a willingness to proceed immediately toward negotiation of greatjy reduced levels of arms, notwithstanding the state of ratification of the START II agreement.

There you have, in very abbreviated form, the core of the concerns which led me to abandon the blessed anonymity of private life to join my voice with respected colleagues such as General Goodpaster, to urge

(Continued on next page.)

Members of the Class of 1961 stand at attention during the Cadet Wing parade at their 35th Reunion this past October. On the right in the front row is class president and former Cadet Wing commander Lt. Col. (Ret) Larry Karnowski.

35th Reunion Class Stands Tall

Recent Changes to Honor Probation Program Explained

By Capt. Steve Davis Center for Character Development

Did you ever wonder what happens to acadet found guilty of violating the Cadet Wing Honor Code? The presumed sanction is disenrollment! However, the Commandant of Cadets or the superintendent have the authority to suspend that recommenda¬ tion of disenrollment for aperiod of time giving the cadet an op¬ portunity to recover from their violation and be restored to the Cadet Wing. This period, called honor probation, has existed for many years but only within the past six months has it been highly formalized and “re-engineered” for maximum benefits to the cadet, the Cadet Wing, and the Air Force. The intent of this arti¬ cle is to report the recent changes to honor probation including its goals, requirements and personnel involved (the probation team).

In June 1996, the honor probation system was assigned to the expanded Honor and Honor Education Division. Based upon Cadet Wing feedback, an honor education officer and senior enlisted superintendent were employed to improve the honor pro¬ bation process. We now offer clear goals and requirements, and the support of an honor probation team for cadets on probation.

The honor probation goals are reflection, rehabilitation, and restoration. Discussing these backwards is meaningful because the ultimate priority is restoration to the status of aperson of ab¬ solute integrity. To be restored, one must change the habits (rehabilitation) which allowed them to violate the code. To change habits one must reflect on the poor habits and understand why they led to the violation. Therefore, we’ve developed six re¬ quirements to aid in that reflection.

Briefly stated, we provide our probatees with athree-ring binder called aprobation portfolio. The portfolio contains six sections to include apresentation script and outline (presented to their squadron and team/club(s) at the beginning and end of their probation), daily journal entries, chain-of-command counseling forms, asenior officer mentor, aself-selected project, and a calendar. We meet with every probatee within two working days of placement on probation. During the meeting we outline details and expectations for their probation. The individual must pro¬ duce aprobation plan within amonth’and then meet again to en¬ sure the inclusion of all requirements. Once approved, the cadet must execute the plan aimed toward final evaluation.

The other critical part of the new probation program is educating and informing all members of the honor probation team. The team consists of the air officer commanding, military training advisor, squadron commander, flight commander, ele¬ ment leader, squadron professional ethics advisor, and senior of¬ ficer mentor. These people are involved in guiding, counseling, and overseeing the cadet’s probation. We have met with every

(Nuclear Beast; From previous page.)

publicly that the United States make unequivocal its commitment to the elimination of nuclear arsenals, and take the lead in setting an agenda for moving forthrightly toward that objective.

Ileft active duty with great confidence that the necessity for this com¬ mitment, and the will to pursue it, were finally in place. Ientered private life with asense of profound satisfaction that the astonishing turn of events which brought awondrous closure to my three and one-half decades of military service, and far more importantly to four decades of perilous ideological confrontation, presented historic opportunities to ad¬ vance the human condition.

But now time, and human nature, are wearing away the sense of wonder and closing the window of opportunity. Options are being lost as urgent questions are unasked, or unanswered; as outmoded routines perpetuate Cold War patterns and thinking; and as anew generation of nuclear actors and aspirants lurch backward toward achilling world where the principal antagonists could find no better solution to their en¬ tangled security fears than Mutual Assured Destruction.

Such aworld was and is intolerable. We are not condemned to repeat the lessons of forty years at the nuclear brink. We can do better than condone a world in which nuclear weapons are accepted as commonplace. The price already paid is too dear, the risks run too great. The task is daunting but cannot shrink from it. The opportunity may not come again.

probation cadet’s team to brief expectations so that all are “sing¬ ing off the same sheet of music.” We’ve also been directed to at¬ tend all honor probation Squadron Commander Review Boards that occur at the beginning and the end of the period.

The signi fi cant restructuring of USAFA’s honor probation program has generated arenewed commitment toward improved processes aimed at graduating men and women of impeccable in¬ tegrity. We welcome your comments or concerns.

Japan Bestows High Award Upon Grad PACAF Commander

General John G. Lorber, ’64, became the fi rst Paci fi c Air Forces (PACAF) commander to receive one of Japan’s highest honors, the Grand Cordon of the Order of the Rising Sun, in a ceremony in Tokyo on Jan. 20.

Parliamentary Vice Minister for Defense Katsuhito Asano presented the award on behalf of Japan’s minister of state for defense. The award, instituted in 1875, recognizes distinguished service. It is rarely bestowed, and seldom presented to foreigners.

During the ceremony the minister cited General Lorber’s ef¬ forts to strengthen the air defense of Japan and the bilateral security relationship between Japan and the United States.

The general, who was in Japan visiting PACAF units, was sta¬ tioned at Yokota as 5th Air Force deputy chief of staff for Opera¬ tions from August 1986 to June 1987. Following that assignment, Lorber was stationed at Misawa Air Base as the 432nd Tactical Fighter Wing commander from June 1987 to July 1989. He assumed duties as PACAF Commander in October 1994. (Courtesy of PACAF News Service)

Squadron Launches Tradition With Casting of Their Mascot

Mighty Mach One’s Class of 1996 has plenty to brag about. Not only are its members part of the newest class to join the active-duty ranks, they also left their squadron with apiece of heritage that is unrivaled by other squadrons.

In an effort to give Mach Oner’s atangible tie to the squadron once they’ve begun their military careers, the Class of ’96 funded the creation of aworld-class sculpture that bears their squadron mascot, the Griffin. “This sculpture was created to symbolize the pride and association of Mach One graduates,” Capt. Dan D. Comeau, former AOC of One, said. “Since the squadron’s incep¬ tion, the Griffin remains ahallmark of Mach One’s achievements. It embodies the vigor and aggressiveness inherent to aunit that continues to set the pace and lead the way. »)

Mach I’s Heritage Sculpture

Leading the way is exactly what the squadron is hoping to do. Currently, the Academy has limited squadron memorabilia

(Continued on next page.) we

Falcon Stadium Receives Reconstructive Surgery

By Senior Airman Brad Milliman Falcon Flyer Staff

Is it or isn’t it? Will it or won’t it? Fear not Academy Class of 1997—graduation ceremonies will take place at Falcon Stadium even though the stadium is undergoing some major reconstructive surgery. The project involves excavation of the entire Falcon Stadium floor, our traditional venue for Academy graduation. The possibility of voiding the nearly $1 million project warranty by holding our graduation ceremony on the stadium floor forced the Academy to begin looking at alternatives several months ago.

Falcon Stadium’s grassless floor awaits reseeding. Amajor contract calls for installation of anew drainage system and elec¬ trical heating grid wire to heat the new surface and help melt snow. The 1997 graduation ceremony will be held in the stadium this year, but not on the actual ground surface.

After discussions with the stadium construction engineers and cadets of the graduating class. Academy leadership decided to hold graduation in Falcon Stadium though it will be held in the modified” stands instead of actually on the football field. This measure is necessary to accommodate field repairs to solve long¬ standing drainage problems. The solution includes constructing the graduation stage nearer the guest seating. As aresult, family and friends will sit significantly closer to the graduation stage and have asuperb view of the proceedings.

Academy plans to offer at least 10 reserved seats for guests of each graduating cadet, said Col. Gregory Bailey, director of Plans and Policies. Additional guests are certainly welcome and will be seated in nearby sections of the stadium.

Family and friends will sit significantly closer to the gradua¬ tion stage than ever before,” he added. “They will definitely have amuch better view. The cadets and Academy leadership are working closely to make sure the traditional pomp and circimstance is maintained—if not improved—this year.

While most make-overs are luxuries and not necessities, the work being done on the stadium is required for the long term viability of Falcon Stadium into the 21st century, Bailey said.

Several corrective steps are involved beginning with excavation of the field. After this season’s last home football game, con¬ struction crews moved into the stadium and dug up the field. Once the excavation is complete, crews will install new drainage and heating systems. More than 7,300 cubic yards of sand-based soil will replace the old soil. Twenty- five miles of electrical heating grid wire will be installed to heat the new surface and help melt snow. More than amile of drainage pipe will also be installed to improve field drainage. Once all the replacements are made, the fi eld will be re-seeded.

The planting of the grass is aminor portion of the overall pro¬ ject,” Bailey said. “In fact, it only involves two percent of the en¬ tire cost and one percent of the man-hours. “Re-seeding can be complicated by difficult weather conditions that preclude the planting until late April.” It will take at least four months to suc¬ cessfully complete the seeding and growing process.

557th FTS’s T-3A Logs

First 1,000 Flying Hours

By Capt. Deanne DeTurnage

557th Flying Training Squadron

Capt. Shawn Parsons and Cadet 1st Class Gary Bernbeck flew the first 557th Flying Training Squadron Slingsby T-3A Firefly in¬ to its 1,000th flying-hour milestone Oct. 19, 1996. The aircraft is one of 54 T-3As flown by the 557th FTS.

While some inconvenience may be experienced, seating will ac¬ tually be better than before. In fact, for the first time ever, the

(( (Sculpture: From previous page.)

suitable for display in an officer’s workplace. Since the Griffin’s introduction at the commissioning ceremony in ’96 (the firsties raised enough money to give each grad acomplimentary piece), other squadrons have shown an interest in creating sculptures that represent their squadrons; unfortunately none have become a reality.

It took hard work to make Mach One’s sculpture more than just agood idea. Mach One first had to convince world-class sculptor Michael Ricker to design the piece and then they had to get it marketed through alocal company. Mach One has again paved the way so that other squadrons who want to establish a world-class lineage have an easier time.

Mach One worked hard to finance their sculpture and they should be proud of their efforts,” Capt. Comeau said. “Hopeful¬ ly, once more grads are made aware of what Mach One has done they will want to help create acollectible like this for their squadrons.

Mach One’s sculpture is available through Creative Castings. This nine-inch, pewter sculpture comes on awalnut base with an inscription plate. It is anumbered collectible. The pieces currently sell for $125. If you would like more information on how to pur¬ chase one or how to contribute to another squadron’s endeavor please contact Creative Castings at 1-888-473-4969 or write Creative Castings P.O. Box 60304, Colorado Springs, Colo. 80960.

The unit uses the Firefly to screen all Academy cadet pilot can¬ didates. Enhanced flight screening using the aerobatic T-3A in¬ stead of the previous T-41C aircraft dramatically reduced attri¬ tion rates.

After the first 236 T-3A students entered pilot training the attri¬ tion rate dropped from 23 percent to three percent. Parsons is an instructor, evaluator and functional check pilot assigned to the 557th FTS, and Bernbeck is assigned to Cadet Squadron 5. Air¬ craft number 575 was the fi rst T-3A to arrive at the Academy Sept. 22, 1994 flown by Lt. Col. Jim Thomas, former 557th com¬ mander. Aircraft number 575 has been the commander’s aircraft ever since and now carries the name of Lt. Col. Rojelio “Rojo Herrera, ’79, who assumed command July 23, 1996.

1997 AFA Fund Campaign Needs Your Support Now

The Fiscal Year 1997 Air Force Academy (AFA) Fund Campaign is currently in full swing. Donations at press time exceeded $140,000 from more than 4,100 donors. That leaves 20,000 individuals who have received our colorful 1997 calendar and have yet to respond to the call to help their school. Please consider making acontribution to this worthwhile effort. Your donation makes adifference. Sup¬ port the “Extra Margin of Excellence.

Mail your tax-deductible contribution to: The AFA Fund, Association of Graduates, 3116 Academy Drive, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-4475.

FALCON SPORTS

Col. Randall W. Spetman, ’76, Athletic Director

Merits, Women"s Track Teams Aim for WA ccess

The Falcon Men’s Track Team will strive to place in the topthree at Western Athletic Conference championship competition after the 1996 season in which they finished astrong fifth in both the indoor and outdoor championships. Multi-talented senior allAmerican Marcus Nichols will lead the Falcons’ quest for success in the WAC. Nichols captured WAC championships in both the decathlon and pole vault at the ’96 outdoor championships. Senior Marcus Alexander and Clayton Cole, both former WAC champions, will back Nichols along with members of the ’96 cross country WAC championship team.

Alexander, WAC indoor 400-meter champion in ’96, leads a group of sprinters that could develop into the best sprint crew at the Academy in several years. Seniors Adrian Smith and Thomas Johnson will both be trying to cap outstanding careers. Atalented trio of freshmen, Kevin Griswold, Fitz Glasgow and Lonzo Wallace will join Smith and Johnson.

Nichols, in addition to his duties in the fi eld, will lead the Falcon hurdlers. The return of junior Floyd Brazier, injured in football in ’95, and the emergence of freshman football player Javier Esparza, will help to bolster the hurdle events. Continued development by junior Bryan Wieland and senior David Simon will add depth to the hurdle events as well.

All-District cross country performer, senior Andrew Marx, will be the Falcons’ top threat in the middle distance races, while cross country MVP and all-WAC performer, junior Zach Smith, will headline the distance events. In the long races, fellow junior Bran¬ don Maroon will join Smith. Junior Steve Radtke and sophomore Shane Rogers will be among the top steeplechasers in the WAC when the Falcons go outdoors. Junior Will Woodward and freshman Jim Nelson were both top-five runners on cross coun¬ try’s WAC champion team. The team’will count on them to con¬ tribute in the middle distance and distance events.

ii

Closing In on Three-Pointer Record

In Just two seasons, sophomore Julia Karlstad has moved into third place on the Falcon’s women’s basketball team all-time list for three-pointers made. She’s hit 53, including 18 this season. The Tuscaloosa, Ala. native has started at guard every game this season and continues to lead the Falcon charge in the Western Athletic Conference. (Photo by Arthur H. Bilsten)

Cole, ’94 WAC champion in the high jump, returns for his final attempt to mount the victory platform again. Senior Scott Parman, who has scored in every WAC meet in his three years, will back Cole and, along with Nichols, forms the best trio of high jumpers on any team in the conference.

WAC champion Nichols is not the only top-level vaulter on the Falcon squad. Freshman Jake Gensic, a16' performer in high school, will strive to continue the multi-year Falcon streak of vaulters going over 17'6". Junior Melvin Harris, athree-time WAC scorer, will carry the banner for the Falcons in the horizon¬ tal jumps. Sophomore Jared Hansen, who returns to the Academy after atwo-year religious mission, should be the Falcons’ top long jumper.

Brian Payne

Seniors Travis Lewis, Brian Payne and Heath Duncan return for their final season and will be the top Falcon performers in the shot put, javelin and hammer throw, respectively. Payne has scored in the last two outdoor WAC championships in the javelin while Lewis scored in the shot indoors last year. Lewis also throws the discus. Sophomore Bobby Sadler has the potential to develop into one of the Academy’s best-ever discus throwers.

Women’s 1997 Track Outlook

The Falcons’ Women’s Track Team entered Western Athletic Conference competition in 1995, finishing seventh in indoors. In 1996, the Falcons inproved to sixth place in the indoor champion¬ ship, producing their fi rst-ever WAC champion, Jennifer Petykowski. The Falcons continued to rise in the WAC standings and their attempts to produce individual WAC champions were made increasingly challenging with the WAC’s expansion to 14 schools that sponsor women’s track. The new expansion now makes the WAC not only the largest, but one of the most com¬ petitive conferences in the country.

In ’97, the Falcons’ quest to improve will be led by junior high jumper Jen Petykowski, atwo-time NCAA Division II allAmerican in the event, junior Gretchen Rhoads, school record holder in the hammer throw (155 '.3"), and agroup of talented young distance runners. Senior Stacy McClain is the top returning sprinter for the Falcons. Last spring, McClain ran a58.31 in the (Continued on next page.)

Lacrosse Team Faces Tough Schedule for 1997

By Laura Fawcett

Take one look at this year’s Falcon lacrosse schedule and it’s easy to guess head coach Capt. Terry Leary’s plans for his squad. He’s definitely moving up.

Leary has assembled avery ambitious schedule for the 1997 season, with opponents who have been peppering the top-20 ranks for years. How ambitious? Try Loyola (Md.) College, a top-five program that defeated Air Force, 19-8, in the Falcons’ most recent NCAA playoff game (1988). Or how about Rutgers University, aperennial top-20 team who will be looking to avenge a13-12 loss to the Falcons two years ago. Add to the mix alittle bit of Notre Dame, last year’s Great Western Lacrosse League champions who once again earned atrip to the NCAA playoffs.

The third-year head coach is not pulling any punches this season, but he’s also aware his schedule will prove more than just alittle challenging. “This is definitely the all-around toughest schedule Air Force has ever played,” he said. “I bet the rest of the lacrosse world thinks we’re favored in five games, one’s atoss-up (with Villanova), and we’re probably expected to lose the other four. But Ithink we’re absolutely capable of winning more than that.

And why shouldn’t he be confident? Leary is bringing back one of the strongest group of midfielders the Falcons have ever had, led by the legitimate All-American candidate, senior Dennis Baniewicz. The Billerica, Mass, native ranked second on the team in scoring last season (43 points), and first in ground balls (64).

(Track Teams: From previous page.)

400m at the Ram Invitational in April. Sophomore Alana Eiland and freshman Jenny Stehwein will join McClain in the sprints.

((

We expect Stehwein to be the top hurdler for the Falcons this season,” said Ralph Lindeman. At Monte Vista High School, Colo., Stehwein captured the state 3A championship in the 100m hurdles with a15.24

Returning WAC scorers Kathy Moore (’95 800m indoors) and Cathy Majauskas (’96 1500m outdoors) headline asolid group of middle distance runners. Moore, asenior, and Majauskas, a sophomore, will be joined in the middle distance events by junior Jennifer Young (1500m), sophomore Tisha David (800m), junior Dawn Golding (1500m) and freshman Heather Johnson (1500m). Golding is atransfer from Golden West Community College, Calif.

Cross country MVP freshman Rachel Smith will combine with freshman Katie Mitchell and junior Lynn Alexander to cover the 3000m and 5000m events. Sophomore Amy Nesbitt, national champion at 10,000m in cross-country skiing, will return follow¬ ing the ski season to compete in the 10,000m outdoors along with senior Sierra Gould.

Junior heptathlete Katie Joynt, who competes in the hurdles, long and triple jumps as well as the heptathlon, will join Petykowski and Rhoads in the field. Freshman heptathlete Bessie

(t

Depending on our team results, Dennis should earn AllAmerican honors if he has the kind of season we expect him to, said Leary. “He’s an amazing player. He has great midfield defense and creates his own transitions. You just can’t keep him from getting opportunities.

Baniewicz will be joined in the mid fi eld by junior Brett Schmuer, apossible all-league selection this season, and Steve Sztan and Rob Makros, two speedy players who will be the core of the second mid fi eld line. Senior John Garst, aface-off specialist, also returns after sitting out his junior year.

The Falcon defense, meanwhile, has kept Air Force in many games over the last two years. Last season, the Falcons allowed just 86 goals all season—the fewest in Academy history. However, the Falcons no longer have goalie Tim Morris (nationally-ranked in save percentage and goals against average), or defensive stalwart Joe Howard. Both graduated last year.

Instead, Leary will play sophomore Ryan Principi in the cage, a California native who saw limited playing time backing up Morris in 1996. “Ryan has been hungry since day one. He’s full of energy and one of the most coachable players we have. He wants to get shot at, and that tells you he’s ready to step in this season. He’ll just need alittle confidence,” said Leary. Senior William Rogers returns to anchor the defense.

Wrestlers Off to Good Start

The Air Force Academy wrestling team, despite several wrestlers moving up aweight class, was off to agood start for the 1996-97 season.

Led by Chris Kretsinger (190 lbs.), Jeremy Potvin (177 lbs.) and Jake Sherer (heavyweight). Air Force was 1-1 early in the year with the win coming against Stanford. In five tournaments, four of them non-team scoring, atotal of 28 Falcons have placed in the top four with 12 wrestlers winning their respective weight classes. Recently, the Falcons won the Tracy Borah Invitational in Gun¬ nison, Colo, by scoring 78.50 points.

Head coach Wayne Baughman will also be relying on alarge and talented freshman class to move up in the six-team WAC. Early on, the best newcomers appear to be Ryan Rupe (142 lbs.), Patrick Brady-Lee (134 lbs.) and Jon-Michael Brown (158 lbs.)

Air Force figures to be in the top four at the WAC Champion¬ ships with Krestinger, Potvin and Sherer having the best chance to make the NCAA Championships in Cedar Falls, Iowa, in late March.

Fontenot also teams with Petykowski in the high jump while sophomore Lisa Meier will join Rhoads in all the throwing events except the javelin. Junior Melissa Youderian and freshman Kelsey Ellingson will throw the javelin when the Falcons move outdoors.

Dennis Baniewicz

Gretchen Rhoads

Men’s Golf Fall Season One of Brightest in Many Years

Entering the fall season. Air Force Academy head golf coach Gene Miranda knew one thing about his Falcons. With 17 underclassmen dotting the 21-man roster. Air Force would be one of the youngest teams in the country. And unlike previous seasons, Miranda couldn’t count on Trey Treadwell to lead the Falcons. The team’s current volunteer coach graduated in May after being Air Force’s team Most Valuable Player the last two years. However, several of the upperclassmen and talented

Swim Teams Preparing for WAC Championships

By Peter Yazvac Sports Information Department

In January the Academy swim team continued to prepare for the Western Athletic Conference Championships, alittle more than amonth away, by hosting the Washington Huskies while the diving team was at Brigham Young University Diving Invita¬ tional.

Against Washington, the women continued to shine, upping their record to 5-0 on the year and earning their first-ever dual meet win over aPacific Athletic Conference-10 opponent. Win¬ ning eight of eleven events, the Falcons cruised to a43-point vic¬ tory, 124-81.

This was our fi rst-ever win over apremier PAC-10 opponent,” said head coach Casey Converse. “We had some spectacular performances and the team stepped up when they had to.

The men had amore dificult time against the Huskies, falling 51-152 and seeing their overall record even out at 2-2. Washington came into the meet on adown note as BYU dispatched both of the Husky squads earlier in Provo, Utah.

The Huskies’ women’s team, which lost to the Cougars 130.50-74.50, had little chance against the Falcons. Air Force had fi ve different individual winners: Jenna Turkey (500 and 1,000-meter freestyle), Krista Steenbergen (200-meter breaststroke), Beth Zeman (l(X)-meter free), Sarah Freas (50-meter free) and Diane Moerer (200-meter butterfly).

Also placing first were the 400-meter medley (Steenberegen, Zeman, Shannon Goff and Connie Cann) and 400-meter free relay teams (Rachel Turkey, Dria Smith, Laura Lalumia and Cann. The Falcons’ depth also played arole in the win as Goff (200-meter individual medley and 200-meter backstroke), Rachel Turkey (1,000-meter free) and Dana Hansen (200-meter free) all placed second in their events.

For the men. Matt Davis (200-meter butter fl y) and Tim Paschke (100-meter free) placed first while Joe Alkire (200-meter backstroke), Derek Tharaldson (50-meter free) and Mike Foster (200-meter IM) each finished in second.

underclassmen joined together to make this fall season one of the brightest in recent memory.

Most importantly, the Falcons repeated as Service Academy Golf Classic champions. In doing so, Air Force retains the Commander-in-Chief’s trophy for golf, acrystal vase (made in the Czech Republic) mounted on top of awooden square base. The tournament, held in late October at the Dallas Athletic Club, pitted the Falcons against archrivals Army, Navy, and the Mer¬ chant Marines. With Air Force Chief of Staff General Ronald Fogleman in attendance, the favored Falcons had atough first day, falling behind Navy by eight strokes. But the young Falcons grew up on the second day, as they not only caught the Mid¬ shipmen but obtained aseven stroke lead going into the last day.

The duo of senior team captain Ryan Luecke and freshman Danny Visosky finished in atie for third (154) in Dallas, leading the Falcons’ charge. These two would be the Falcons’ top two golfers in the early season, with Visosky having a75.29 stroke average followed by Luecke’s 76.76. The two were the only Falcons to play in all she varsity tournaments this fall.

Visosky, who spent last season at the Academy Prep School, was on fire in his first two collegiate tournaments. In his first six rounds, he had three rounds at or below par. At the Rocky Moun¬ tain Intercollegiate, he placed seventh with a216 (75-68-73). He got even better aweek later at Air Force’s Falcon-Cross Creek In¬ vitational. With aone over-par 217 (72-71-74), Visosky placed in atie for third, the second year in arow an Air Force golfer has placed in the top three in the tournament. Overall, Visosky had the Falcons’ lowest score in four of the six fall tournaments.

One of three seniors on the team this year, Luecke is not only providing experience but solid play. Besides his showing in Dallas, Luecke had the team’s second lowest score at the Falcons/Cross Creek, Missouri Bluffs Intercollegiate and Rice/Columbia Lakes Invitational. At the Falcon Invitational, he shot his second career sub-70 round with athree under par 69. For the tournament, he was asolid six over par (222).

As ateam, the Falcons’ other fall highlight was their perfor¬ mance at the Falcon/Cross Creek Invitational. The team’s 54 hole total of 886 was good for fifth place, one of Air Force’s highest finishes in the 28-year history of the tournament.

Lineman Earns NCAA Scholarship

Air Force senior offensive lineman Carlton Hendrix has been awarded a$5,000 post-graduate scholarship by the NCAA.

Carlton Hendrix, #76

Hendrix is one of only 17 college football players in Division I-A to receive the NCAA honor. He has a3.3 grade point average and is majoring in environmental engineering. Hendrix helped the football team to a6-5 record this season while earning first-team all-Western Athletic Conference honors.

Atwo-time WAC Scholar-Athlete, Hendrix was also awarded the Burger King National Scholar-Athlete of the Week award against Navy. He was one of only 13 players nationwide to earn the award in Division I-A.

Breaks Butterfly Record

Sophomore Connie Cann broke the Academy record for the 100-meter butterfly at the Husky Invitational swimming meet in Washington in December. (Photo by Art H. Bilsten)

Men’s Tennis Looking for 20th Consecutive Winning Season

Most would say that consistency best describes the Air Force Academy men’s tennis program. Why not, the program has 20 consecutive 20-win seasons. This year, the best way to describe the program may be that they are just plain good.

Up, Up, and Away...

By Cadet 1st Class Ryan A. Campbell Cadet Falconer

"Never having been fully domesticated, sometimes our birds answer to the call of the wild...

This phrase, from the Academy’s cadet falconer’s half-time narrative, had to be read at arecent performance. While having falcons fly out of the stadium during the performance is not a common occurrence, with birds that are still wild at heart, and so many factors out of the control of the cadets, fly-aways unfor¬ tunately still occur.

Acadet falconer releases one of the Academy’s trained falcons at half-time of afootball game. Sometimes the birds are distracted and fail to return to the stadium. In the case of Vector, asuccessful recovery was made.

Vector, afive-month-old peregrine falcon left the stadium dur¬ ing the half-time of the Air Force-Hawaii footlball game in late October. As soon as it was clear that Vector was not returning to the cadet falconer in the stadium, the whole team mobilized and immediately started the recovery process.

Using two radio receivers and keeping in touch by walkietalkie, cadets were able to triangulate the position of the wayward bird. In this case. Vector was blown south by the strong winds. After chasing him as far south as Garden of the Gods, the falconers lost his signal. The team drove all the way to Pueblo without picking up asignal.

After along day, the team retired for the night and took up the search again early the next morning. Luckily, while driving down Highway 115 along Fort Carson, the falconers picked up asignal. After following the signal for an hour and ahalf and with the help of the Wildlife Management Department from Fort Carson, Vec¬ tor was safely recovered.

When afalcon does leave the stadium, there can be many reasons behind the departure. Vector’s leaving was the result of spotting alarge red tail hawk outside the stadium. The falcon in¬ stinct warns that it is unsafe to be on the ground when ahawk is near. No amount of training will ever overcome these natural in¬ stincts in birds of prey.

Hot weather can also be acatalyst for afly-away because falcons tolerate the cold much better than the heat. The bird will simply leave in search of acool shady place to land.

Unfortunately, many of these problems are impossible to foresee or prevent. However, it is important to find the birds once they leave, since most of the Academy falcons have few survival skills to enable them to stay alive for more than afew days in the wild. (The Falcon Flyer)

Sophomore Jason Anderson, who is afreshman academically, will enter the spring playing No. 1singles. Anderson played last year at Boise State and helped the Broncos to the Big Sky cham¬ pionship. He posted a27-9 overall record in singles playing anywhere from No. 3-6. He was 16-7 in doubles while earning BSU’s 1996 Most Improved Player award.

Seniors Karl Gregor and Mike Parks will open the year at No. 2 and 3singles, respectively. Gregor was 15-14 overall last year at No. 1singles and 15-11 at No. 1doubles. He has a38-20 career mark in singles. “Karl gained lots of experience at No. 1singles last year that will help him this year,” coach Rich Gugat said.

He works hard and has improved every year. Ithink he’ll have his best year in 1997.”

Mike Parks enters the season chasing several records. The Chillicothe, Ohio native already ranks third at the Academy with an .821 career winning percentage. He is 69-15 in his career and his 69 wins are the 10th most in AFA history. With an average of 23 wins per year. Parks could challenge John Steimle’s school record of 95 career wins. Last year, he was 26-3 while earning allWestern Athletic Conference honors. “Mike is atough com¬ petitor and has avery strong will to win,” Gugat said.

The bottom three spots in the lineup, however, are what really have Gugat excited about this season. “One of the reasons we’re going to be better this year is that the bottom of the lineup is very solid,” he said. Junior Chet Bryant opens the year at No. 4 singles. Bryant posted back-to-back 21-win seasons and has a 42-15 career mark. He was 21-6 last year at No. 3singles. “Chet is avery veteran player. He has one of the best all-around games on the team and has the ability to hit every shot and hit it well, Gugat said. The freshman duo of Tom DeAngelis and Nolan Cooper should figure prominently in the top six, as they’ll open the spring at No. 5and 6singles, respectively. “These guys are very solid,” Gugat said. “They both played very well during the fall and have improved every time out.

Gugat has what could be an ace in the hole in junior Jamie Caplinger. The Battle Ground, Wash., product had atremendous rookie year in 1995 before aback injury forced him to miss nearly all of last season. His freshman campaign saw him post a25-5 mark at No. 3singles which is the second most wins at the posi¬ tion in school history. He earned all-WAC honors for his efforts.

Transcripts Available

Graduates who need transcripts from the Academy must request them by signed letter or fax from: Hq US AFA/ DFRR, 2354 Fairchild Drive, Suite 6D106, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-6210, fax; 719-333-6650. For infor¬ mation call 719-333-3970 (commercial) or DSN 333-3970.

Mike Parks

RESERVE YOUR PLACEHISTORY

Margaret &Thomas Bancroft

In Memory of

Captain WASmith '67

In Honor of

John Quincy Adams ‘99

Link yourself forever with the traditions and future of the Air Force Academy by inscribing your name on a Pegasus Plaza granite paver. Pavers inscribed with the names of graduates, parents, children, and friends of the Academy will pave the Pegasus Plaza located in front of Doolittle Hall, the alumni house, at the Academy. For your unrestricted taxdeductible donation of $250, apaver with your name or another name you designate will be placed in this prime location for all to see. Funds received will be used to support the Association of Graduates, cadet activities, graduate programs and Academy needs. The $250 donation can be made in alump sum or over one year (monthly, quarterly, etc. in equal payments).

Pegasus Plaza pavers make excellent gifts for events such as birthdays, graduation, retirement and Christmas. You can also honor or provide amemorial for afriend or relative through this program. Acertificate of notification will be sent, upon request, for such gifts.

Please send acerti fi cate of noti fi cation to: Iwould like to support the Pegasus Paver Project.

NAME: NAME: STREET:.

STREET: CITY: STATE: ZIP: CITY:

ZIP: Circle one: Home Work

In each block below, fill in the character (letter,

are 13 blanks per line and three lines per paver. (For longer family names, please call or write.)

aspace between names, and before and after “&”. Minor changes may be required to conform to engraver limitations and standardization procedures. Lines will be centered on the paver. Put information for additional pavers on aseparate sheet of paper.

SIGNATURE:

Two Graduates Among Top Ten Young Americans

Lt. Col. Dartanian “Doc” Warr, ’80; and Lt. Col. Barbara Jean Faulkenberry, ’82, were named two of 10 Outstanding Young Americans for 1997 by the U.S. Junior Chamber of Com¬ merce and honored at an awards ceremony on Jan. 11 in Washington, D.C. Their names and the other eight 1997 winners were added to alist of more than 550 exceptional young people honored in the past as the best, brightest and most inspirational leaders America has to offer.

Brought up in adivorced household and raised on welfare, Warr, 38, left home at the age of 14 after winning “A Better Chance” scholarship to aprivate high school. He used that op¬ portunity to advance himself all the way to the nation’s capital as aWhite House Fellow. Within days of entering service on the Housing and Urban Development sMf as afellow, Warr was called to action in South Dade County on the Hurricane Andrew Response team. He became the linchpin between the Bush and Clinton administrations and the flow of rebuilding funds to needy recipients.

Warr currently leads the development of a$17 billion space in¬ frared satellite, which will be used for global surveillance, im¬ proved missile warning, missile defense and battlespace characterization, providing accurate and fast information to the nation’s warfighters in times of trouble.

In addition, Warr has created mentoring organizations for children, teens and adults focused on making them successful in life. One such program, MANCHILD, provided male role models for boys from single-mother households. Warr, born in Cleveland, his wife Denise Ann, and their two children, reside in Los Angeles, Calif.

Faulkenberry, 36, is aKC-135 evaluator navigator, who has flown combat support in two different contingencies, most recently in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia in Operation Southern Watch. Finishing as adistinguished graduate in every Air Force school she attended, Faulkenberry was eventually chosen for a selective Air Staff Training Program.

Working in the Office of the Secretary of Defense, Force Management and Personnel, her report to Congress resulted in improved compensation for military members’ moving expenses. As chief of the Academy’s Instruction Division, she created anew course in women’s self defense for freshmen cadets. Her military honors include the Airman’s Medal for heroism for coming to the aid of awoman attacked by arecently-paroled rapist.

Faulkenberry has excelled in athletics as well. She is undefeated in 10 years of military competition in the sport of racquetball. She

earned asilver medal at the first World Games event, representing the United States in international competition. Her athletic ex¬ ploits also include ultra-endurance cycling and triathlon events. She uses her sports skills to promote women’s fitness with rac¬ quetball clinics, self-defense instruction, and bicycling events. She has also been involved with inner-city youth as part of the “Part¬ ners in Education” program. Faulkenberry resides in Grand Forks, N.D.

The other eight honorees for 1997 are Sen. Richard Santorum, national affairs; Kathleen Brunner, Ph.D., science; Jennifer Paige Barclay, business; Allison Black-Tortorigi, human im¬ provement; Dr. Jau-Fei Chen, science; Leah Hulan, human im¬ provement; Ralph Eugene Reed, Jr., personal achievement; and Adam Werbach, environment.

U.S. Naval Institute Sponsors War fi ghting Essay Contest

The U.S. Naval Institute invites entries to its third annual Colin L. Powell Joint Warfighting Essay Contest. In the words of the former chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, the competition seeks “those who are motivated to enter this contest not by aneed to ‘toe the policy line,’ but who are devoted to the security of this great Nation.

Essays should be about combat readiness in ajoint context— persuasive discussions of tactics, strategy, weaponry, combat training, force structure, doctrine, operations, organization for combat, interoperability of hardware and procedures, or other involving two or more services. Entries may be heavy in uni-service detail, but must have joint application. Entries are welcome from military professionals and civilians alike. The Naval Institute will award cash prizes of $2,500, $2,000, and $1,000 to the authors of the three best essays entered. Maximum length is 3,000 words, but shorter opinion pieces or “Professional (typically 2,000-word technical arguments) may also be

issues >» notes competitive.

ADDITIONAL ENTRY RULES: Essays must be original, and not previously submitted or published elsewhere. An exact word count must appear on the title page. Send to: Colin L. Powell Joint Warfighting Essay Contest, U.S. Naval Institute, 118 Maryland Avenue, Annapolis, Md. 21402-5035. Essays must be postmarked on or before 1April 1997.

Essays are judged anonymously. Therefore, the following guidelines should be followed; The name of the author should not appear on the essay. Each author should assign amotto in addi¬ tion to atitle to the essay. The motto and title should appear on the title page of the essay, in lieu of the author’s name. The motto should also appear by itself on the outside of an accompanying sealed envelope containing asheet of paper with the author’s name, address, telephone, social security number, and short biography, the title of the essay, and the motto. This envelope will not be opened until the Naval Institute has made its final selec¬ tions.

Submit two complete copies, typewritten, double-spaced, on .^japer approximately 8" x11". (If typed on acomputer, please also submit an IBM-compatible disk and specify word-processing software used.)

The essays will be screened by apanel composed of officers from the five armed services who will recommend 10 essays to the Naval Institute’s Editorial Board. The editorial board will award the three prizes. The awards will be presented to the winning essayists at aspecial ceremony. Award winners will be notified by phone on or about June 22, 1997. Letters notifying all other en¬ trants will be mailed by mid-July 1997. The three prize-winning essays will be published in Proceedings, the 122-year-old magazine published by the Naval Institute. Essays not awarded prizes may be selected for publication in Proceedings.

Taxiway Construction

An Academy UV-18 taxies near ongoing airfield construction in November. Taxiway His operational and the midfield hangar construction remained on schedule for completion in May 1997.

(Photo by Tech. Sgt. Ken Carter)

Cadets Connect with Graduate Aboard Spaceship MIR

Five cadets spoke with U.S. Astronaut John E. Blaha, a1965 Academy graduate, who was aboard the Russian space station MIR, Jan. 7.

The wing listened for 10 minutes during the noon meal over the public address system in Mitchell Hall as Cadets 1st Class Mat¬ thew J. Quatrara, Antoin Marcus Alexander, Cadet 2nd Class Brian A. Surdyk, Cadet 3rd Class Thomas Space and Cadet 4th Class Matthew Harting spoke with Blaha and Valery Korzum, the MIR commander.

Hopefully this will help to further inspire asense of mutualism between us and Russia, so that we can successfully ex¬ plore and colonize space,” Space said. The cadets asked questions ranging from what it takes to become an astronaut to what science and engineering experiments Blaha does on the space sta¬ tion.

“It was areal honor to speak to Colonel Blaha,” Surdyk said.

Ican remember watching ‘The Right Stuff’ as alittle boy and dreaming of being an astronaut someday. That afternoon when I spoke to Colonel Blaha seemed to bring my boyhood dream that much closer.

Cadets also asked what experiences the colonel had as acadet that best prepared him to become an astronaut. Blaha said that the ability to deal with the everyday pressure and stress that cadets experience at the Academy prepared him well for the duties he now performs as an astronaut.

It (talking with Blaha) was an eye-opening experience,” Alex¬ ander said. “To see what someone from the Academy has done and to see what the people here at the Academy could put together was amazing.” The contact with the Academy was the largest education group addressed since the onset of amateur radio contacts with schools worldwide from orbiting spacecraft.

The connection between the Academy and the Russian space station was complex and many cooperative groups helped make it happen. The process began in mid-November, 1996, when Blaha said one of his goals during his time on MIR was to have some contact with the Academy and the cadets who will be the future explorers of space.

Col. Hans Mueh, professor and head of the Department of Chemistry and Dr. Donald M. Bird, aprofessor of chemistry, worked with Steve Vander Ark, of Krug Life Sciences; Frank Bauer, shuttle amateur radio experiment; and Will Marchant, amateur radio on the International Space Station. All together they linked with the MIR as it passed over Orlando, Fla.

Mueh and Bird called ateleconferencing company in San Fran-

Liaison Of fi cers

719-472-0300

DSN 333-2067

719-333-2073

719-333-4194

206-3668@mcimail.com

800-666-8723

719-333-3070

719-333-2640

cisco, Calif, which donated the air time to promote education and interest in the space program. The teleconferencing company con¬ nected the Academy with Marchant in Manassas, Va., and Lou McFadin, aham radio operator in Orlando. McFadin contacted Blaha on the MIR with his ham radio.

Astronaut John E. Blaha, who is aretired Air Force colonel, left Sept. 16, 1996, on board the space shuttle Atlantis on amis¬ sion to dock with the Russian space station MIR. He became the third American, following Norm Thagard and Shannon Lucid, to fly aboard MIR in ajoint Russian-American program that NASA considers to be phase Iof the International Space Station. (Infor¬ mation compiled by Ike Sleighter, Department of Chemistry, and Laurie A. Wohlfiel, The Falcon Flyer staff.)

World, Air Force Flying-Hour Records Set By Graduates

Aworld record and an Air Force record were set in late 1996 by two Air Force Academy graduates, Maj. Mike Brill, ’79; and Capt. Michael Hake, ’85, respectively.

Brill, a419th Fighter Wing pilot from Hill Air Force Base, Utah, was honored Dec. 4for having more F-16 hours than any pilot in the world. In 1993, Brill became the first American to break the 3,000-hour threshold. Only 12 other pilots have ac¬ complished this feat, according to arepresentative of Lockheed Martin, which makes the fighter aircraft.

Hake, with the 429th Electronic Combat Squadron at Cannon Air Force Base, N.M., was recognized as the first electronic war¬ fare officer in the Air Force to surpass the 2,000-hour mark in the EF-111A Raven. Hake has flown the EF-111A for eight and ahalf years. He said he is the longest-serving Raven electronic warfare of fi cer.

Donations

Needed Now for New Class Ring Display

Class rings from the U.S. Air Force Academy represent all that the Academy stands for and form aunique, common bond among graduates of all classes. With the financial sup¬ port of the Class of 1968, the Association of Graduates has established aclass ring display on the second floor of Doolit¬ tle Hall. It is housed in abeautiful display case provided by that class on the occasion of their 25th reunion.

The display will consist of one ring (actually worn by a graduate) from each class. All people donating will be recognized for their donation, but no one will know whose ring is actually on display. Selection will be based upon the condition of each ring donated. Besides alist of donors, long-term plans could include audiovisual or interactive com¬ puter presentations dealing with the heritage and tradition of the class ring, donor information and/or information on each class.

Several rings from each class will be maintained in reserve. Remaining rings will be melted down to form an ingot. As the rings for each new class are poured, apiece of this ingot will be included so that every cadet ring includes apiece of rings from all previous classes and represents an unbroken circle of heritage and tradition.

Parents Club Contact at USAFA

719-333-3832

719-333-3970

800-955-4438

The display case is completed, and we are now accepting ring donations. So far, the display has rings from 11 classes. Besides the heritage and tradition that you will help establish, your donation can serve to honor or memorialize agraduate as part of the donor listing. Of course, any donation is also fully tax deductible. If you or someone you know are in¬ terested in donating aring, please contact Jim Shaw or Jack Mueller at (719) 472-0300.

Engineering 410 Struts Its Stuff Ws aDog^s World

By Senior Airman Brad Miiliman Falcon Flyer Staff

Members of the Academy’s Fall Engineering 410 class had the opportunity to show off alittle in mid December. Academy members and local media were invited to the Academy’s Con¬ solidated Education and Training Facility in Fairchild Hall to see some of the positive things the engineering class is capable of do-

mg.

Engineering 410 is amandatory course for all Academy cadets. The course requires cadets to design and build aproject for areallife user. Classes consist of engineering and nonengineering ma¬ jors. The real-life users receive the projects free of charge at the end of the semester. Hospitals, area schools, youth organizations like the Cub Scouts, cadet organizations and handicapped people have benefitted from use of past 410 projects.

The Association of Graduates has regularly augmented funding for Engineering 410 projects through donations to the Air Force Academy (AFA) Fund.

((

Engineering 410 gives the students asense of accomplish-

8By Cadet 1st Class Tannia Kustka Cadet Squadron 18

Academy cadets in an Engineering 410 class helped Canine Companions for Independence (CCl) by building a training panel for service dogs during the fall semester. The constructing and designing of this training panel, which began in August, enabled CCI to train dogs to better serve the needs of disabled people.

The service dogs provide independence for those who have had to depend on someone else to do the simplest tasks.

Under the leadership of Cadet 1st Class Leslie Holland, the class organized into the company “Milkbone, Inc. Milkbone, Inc.’s training panel consists of four different training stations. The stations help teach dogs to press an elevator button, turn on alight switch, open acupboard door, open adrawer and retrieve an item from ashelf.

Service dogs are the cornerstone of the CCI program. The “canine companions’’ perform helpful tasks for peo¬ ple who use wheelchairs or have other serious mobility limitations.

Whether it’s turning on alight switch or opening adoor, aCanine Companion trained with this newly designed training panel, will help make independent living areality for people with disabilities. (The Falcon Flyer)

(< It’s not on-

ment,” said Capt. Lynnane George, class instructor, ly challenging to build the project, but it’s also challenging to have to work together with 16 or 17 other cadets who may have a lot, little or no engineering backgrounds. Students who have worked on community service projects often mention the sense of accomplishment in helping someone else.

Local news media attended media day and talked with the students and faculty about the projects. “Typically we have about 60 percent community service projects and 40 percent Academy department, club or organization projects,” George said. “We tried to give the community an indication of some of the positive things the Academy is capable of doing.” (The Falcon Flyer)

1997

Please send me

Please send me

1.

Joyce Mapes of Canine Companions for Independence, and "Pueblo” demonstrate how atraining panel for service dogs works. (Photo by Senior Airman Brad Miiliman)

ATTENTION IN THE AREA

By Col. Jock C.H. Schwank (USAF, Ret), ’60 AOG Vice President, Services

Register Deadline Aired

Amajor AOG service is one of providing up-to-date information on graduates through the annual Register of Graduates. The most recent book was mailed to members of record in November this year. The biographical information form printed near the center of each magazine should be used on an ongoing basis to update graduate data. Since the in¬ dividual graduate is the critical source of Register information, it is vital that you keep the AOG informed of address changes, promotions, new jobs, etc. Information updates to be included in the 1997Register must be received by 1July 1997.

Class Ring Information

Graduates who need to replace or have their Academy class rings repaired should go directly through the manufacturer. The manufacturer has the expertise and equipment to repair or replace your ring. Contact them directly for cost estimates, which vary significantly. Below are the manufacturers and how to contact them:

Jostens

c/o Seal Seykora

Computer Corner

Staff Addition; Mrs. Vikki Rhoden (spouse of Bill, ’77) has joined the AOG staff as apart-time information ser¬ vices specialist. She is assisting in nonroutine data base and system network maintenance activities. We’re glad to have her in this vital position.

E-mail: We are now undertaking amassive effort to ob¬ tain, record and maintain e-mail addresses for all persons in the AOG Data Base, especially graduates. To this end, the current Biographical Update Form, published in Check¬ points and The Register contains entries for e-mail ad¬ dresses; we’re asking that all persons send us their e-mail addresses as well as any other graduate’s or associate member’s e-mail addresses of which they are aware. We an¬ ticipate that we will soon be able to alert selected groups of time-sensitive information through e-mail. We are still soliciting address and phone number changes and any biographical updates via e-mail. The AOG address is; 206-3688@mcimail.com

Data Base “Bugs”: We have found that an omission in data transfer procedures from the USAF Academy main¬ frame to the AOG SUN network in April 1996 caused some errors in spouse names in the 1996 Register of Graduates. There are two groups of graduates who might have er¬ roneous data: (1) Those who were married in 1994 and divorced prior to April 1996; and (2) those who were single in 1994 and were married prior to April 1996. An error in extracting current assignments affects graduates in acontin¬ uing assignment, such as afaculty position at USAFA, who have an intervening assignment, to Air War College, for ex¬ ample. If the start date of the short assignment is after the start date of the continuing assignment, the short assign¬ ment will show as the current assignment in the 1996 Register. This programming error has been corrected for future editions. We apologize to those affected graduates. As errors are brought to our attention, we are making the corrections.

URL for AOG Web Page: Thanks to Capt. Ross McNutt, ’87, for his time and efforts in revising the old Web Page. Point your browser to http://mcnutt.mit.edu/ usafaaog/usafaaog.html.

4890 S. Kitteredge St. Aurora, Colo. 80015 (303) 699-9199

Balfour Company

c/o Jess Crane

((i:®

1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982 1983, 1984, 1986, 1989, 1990, 1991 1992, 1996

Classes of 1959, 1961, 1964, 1965 1966, 1967, 1969, 1975, 1994

3502 S. Marion St. Englewood, CO 80110 (303) 789-0623 (Evenings: 303-757-0557)

Herff Jones

Classes of 1985, 1987, 1988, 1993, 1995

226 Publis Street, Providence, RI 02905 (401) 331-1240

1997 MAJOR EVENTS SCHEDULE

(As of Jan. 9. 1997)

Mar

Aug 29-Sep 1 Aug 30 Aug 31

Sept 6

11-14

13

20

24-28

Graduate Dependent Scholarship Application Deadline

Service Academy Career Conference in Washington, DC

Doolittle Hall Open House

Graduation -Class of 1997

Inprocessing -Class of 2001 &Parents Welcome Lunch

Parents Weekend

Idaho at USAFA &AOG Tailgate (Tentative)

Doolittle Hall Open House

USAFA at Rice

Sabre Society Meeting

U. of Las Vegas at USAFA

USAFA at CSU

Class of ’ll Reunion (Marriott)

Class of ’87 Reunion (Embassy Suites)

Homecoming

Jabara Recognition Weekend

San Diego State at USAFA &AOG Tailgate

Class of ’67 Reunion (Embassy Suites)

The Citadel at USAFA &AOG Tailgate

USAFA at Navy

Class of ’72 Reunion (Marriott)

Fresno State at USAFA &AOG Tailgate

USAFA at San Jose State

USAFA at Hawaii

Class of ’62 Reunion (Antlers)

Army at USAFA &AOG Tailgate

Wyoming at USAFA

As of Feb. 1, 1997

’62 (35th) 5-9 Nov 1997

Tim Gilmartin

7617 E. Jamison Dr Englewood, CO 80112

Ph.: 303-773-3428 (H)

E-mail: 70773.2576@Compuserve.com

Hotel: Antlers Doubletree

’67 (30th) 1-5 Oct 1997

George Van Wagenen

6810 Snowbird Dr Colorado Springs, CO 80918

Ph.: 719-598-5458 (H) 800-225-1163 (W)

E-mail: G529503@aol.com

Hotel: Embassy Suites

’72 (25th) 15-19 Oct 1997

Lt Col (Ret) Doug Brower

19770 Top O’ The Moor Dr Monument, CO 80132

Ph.: 719-488-0559 (H)

E-mail: 73464.1050@Compuserve.com

Hotel: Marriott

’77 (20th) 24-28 Sept 1997

Lt Col Bill Rhoden

2420 Vantage Dr

Colorado Springs, CO 80919

Ph.: 719-262-9314 (H)

E-mail: rhodenwe.xp@usafa.af.mil

Hotel: Marriott

’87 (10th) 24-28 Sept 1997

Capt Michael Walker

2932 Camino Cielo Ct

Colorado Springs, CO 80920

Ph.: 719-535-8090 (H) 719-333-4213 (W)

E-mail (H): Crash87@concentric.net (W) walkermj.dfee@usafa.af.mil

Hotel: Embassy Suites

Please

Lamp

Sirrica, LTD. is proud to announce the availability of the U.S. Air Force Academy Lamp.

The distinctive Air Force Academy Coat-of-Arms is vividly re-created in gold on the black parchment shade. This classic desk lamp is handpolished and hand-assembled of the finest solid brass and features asolid black marble base and centerpiece. Indeed, the lamp makes an impressive statement of quality about the owner.

You can also have your lamp personalized with an engraved brass plate affixed to the marble base. The Air Force Academy Lamp is a tremendous value as you are able to purchase direct from Sirrica, Ltd.

Of course, you must be completely satisfied with the quality of your lamp or you may return it within fifteen days for exchange or refund.

Whether selected for your personal use or as an expressive, thoughtful gift, the U.S. Air Force Academy Lamp is certain to command attention.

For faster service, credit card orders may be placed by diaiing toii free 1-800-346-2884.

Ail callers should request to speak with Operator 752AF.

NOTE: For Christmas delivery, all orders must be telephoned or postmarked by December 10.

LAMP

Symbolizing

Solid Marble; Ht. 22”; Wt. 8Lbs.; Solid Brass

AOG Biographical Information

From: NAME .1 am aGRADUATE/ASSOCIATE member: (Circle One)

DATE. 3SN

To: AOG, USAF Academy

1. Make the following changes in my graduate/associate (circle one) records:

#

Date.

FOR THOSE IN CIVILIAN BUSINESS:

Would you like to receive aBusiness Resource Directory update form in order to be listed in our next edition and to help graduates in a civilian career transition by providing them information about your industry through the AOG job opportunity program?

Yes No

Post USAFA PME/Civilian Education Completed: Date Degree. >Iajor. .School,

3.

AOG GIFT ORDER FORM

Complete and send to:

ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES

3116 Academy Drive USAFA Academy, CO 80840-4475 (719) 472-0300 FAX: (719) 333-4194

SEE ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS BELOW

STREET:.

.ZIP:. CITY:. ST:.

.CHECK ENCLOSED DAYTIME PHONE( ).

.CREDIT CARD (VISA OR MASTERCARD ONLY) SIGNATURE EXPIRATION

AOG GIFT CATALOG Prices effective as of 1Jan 97

ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS:

LIST each item on the “ORDER BLANK" -fill in Item #, Item Description, Size (as appropriate), Unit Price, Quantity, and Totoi Price. If ordering class decals, piease specify CLASS YEAR.

NON-MEMBERS please add 20% of Merchandise Total.

COLORADO SALES TAX: We are required to collect Colorado Sales Tax for items sold at Doolittle Hall or mailed to aColorado Address as follows: Doolittle Hall &El Paso County -4% Colorado Springs -6.0% Elsewhere within Colorado -3%

SHIPPING &HANDLING: For mail orders, please add $4.00 or 10% (whichever is greater). IF you are ordering ONLY decals -shipping and handling is $.75.

PAYMENT can be made by CHECK (made out to "AOG") or CREDIT CARD (VISA or MASTERCARD ONLY). If paying by credit card please print clearly your credit card number and expiration date (month and year) and sign in spaces provided.

NAME, MAILING ADDRESS, DAYTIME PHONE NUMBER, and CLASS YEAR (for graduates) should be printed clearly in spaces provided.

CUT OUT ORDER FORM and mail to address listed on above "Order Form".

COMMENTS or SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS:

GLASSWARE AOG crest etched on clear glass

Old Fashion Glasses:

Item #7241

Item #7243

High Ball:

Item #7245

73/4 oz.

$4.00 ea./$ 14.00 set of 4

10 1/4 oz. $4.00 ea./$14.00 set of 4

12 1/4 oz. $4.00 ea./$15.00 set of 4

Item #7250 10 1/2 oz. $4.00 ea./$15.00 set of 4

Stemware:

Item #7230

Item #7220

Item #7260

Item #7210

12 oz. Brandy Snifter $5.00 ea./$ 18.00 set of 4 73/4 oz Wine Glass $5.00 ea./$17.00 set of 4

10 oz. Goblet $5.00 ea./$17.00 set of 4

12 oz. Pilsner Glass $5.00 ea./$18.00 set of 4

Mugs: AOG crest on one side; AFA crest on the other side

Item #7010 White Ceramic Coffee Mug, 12 oz. $6.00 ea.

Item #7020 Insulated Sports Cup, 20 oz. $5.00 ea.

SABERS and PLAQUES

The Cadet Saber is sold to GRADUATE AOG MEMBERS ONLY. The AOG does not sell the mounting plaque-call for info on where to get the mounting plaque.

Item #4000 Cadet Saber with Scabbard $185.00 (Price effective 1Feb 97)

Item #6000 Laser Engraved Walnut Plaque (Cadet Area, 17"xl4") $145.00

Item #6001 Etched Falcon on White Marble (14"xl6*) $75.00

THE ASSCKIIATION OF GRADUATES

Proudly Announces Publication of SPIRIT AMD FLIGHT

APHOTOGRAPHIC SALUTE TO THE USAF ACADEMY

Over 150 Color Photographs

ELIZABETH by Acclaimed Photographer GILL LUI

II II

You have combined agreat pictorial look at the Academy with aprofound view of its mission, its beautiful surroundings with its recent history, and the hopes and aspirations of the cadets with the whole Air Force-very successfully!

(Thomas S. Moorman)

II II

Ihope your work will be a motivational reminder to all who see it of the great aspects of the Academy and of its place among the truly beautiful institutions of national signi fi cance.

(Donald J. Barrett)

Item #3160 -$60.00

AOG

CATALOG Prices en^ective as of 1Jan 97

FINE ART PRINTS

Item #2010 "Here’s aToast..." by Keith Ferris $60.00

Item #2020 "Gyrfalcon" by Frace $75.00

Item #2030 "Thunderbird" by Rick Broom $50.00

Item #2040 "Footfalls” Artist Proofs $190.00

SWEATERS. Sf fl RTS. HATS. AND JACKETS

Item #1610 AOG Rugby Shirt: 100% cotton (10% shrinkage, sizes run true) navy blue with AOG crest embroidered on left breast $47.00 (SML, >IED. LRG, XLG) $50.00 (XXL)

Item #1620 AOG Crew Neck Sweater: Jersey top pebble bottom navy blue sweater; 100% pre-shrunk cotton, sizes run one size smaller than normal fit; embroidered AOG crest on left breast $48.00 (SML, MED ,LRG, XLG) $51.00 (XXL)

Item #1630 AOG V-Neck Sweatshirt: 85% cotton/15% polyester; oversized to compensate for shrinkage; Color: natural oatmeal (light beige) with navy striped trim, navy blue embroidered AOG crest $46.00 (SML, MED, LRG, XLG) $49.00 (XXL)

Item #1520 Polar Jacket: Gray Fleece-lined, Blue Nylon shell, w/embroideted AOG crest. $60.00 (SML, MED, LRG, XLG, XXL)

Item #1530 Golf Jacket: White/Teal Poly/Cotton shell, nylon liner, w/embroidered AOG crest. $42.00 (SML, MED, LRG, XLG, XXL)

Item #1541 Suede Leather Jacket: Navy Blue/Tan w/embroidered AOG crest $100.00 (XXL: $105.00) (SML, MED, LRG, XLG, XXL)

Item #1700 AFA Hat w/Class Year: Navy Blue w/embtoidered AFA crest and "19xx'(class year) Please specify class year. Adjustable leather strap for size. $16.00

Item #1701 AFA Hat (plain): Same as above without class year. $13.00

CADET ISSUE CLOTHING (Available to AOG Members ONLY)

Item #1100 Sweatsuit- 89% Cotton/8% Polyester/3% Rayon; oversize to accommodate shrinkage; light grey with dark grey reflective strips and USAFA (SML, MED, LRG, XLG, XXL)

Sweat Tops $35.00

Sweat Pants $22.50

Complete Set $55.00

Item #1300 USAFA T-SHIRTS: 100% cotton (wiU shrink). White with blue Ringer Collar &Sleeves 'USAFA* silkscreened on left breast $8.00 (SML, MED, LRG, XLG) $9.00 (XXL)

Item #1400

Running Suit: Blue/Grey Nylon with reflective strips (sizes tun small) Running Suit Jacket $47.00

Running Suit Pants $25.00

Complete Set $67.00 (SML, MED, LRG, XLG, XXL)

AOG GIFT CATALOG

HARDCOVER BOOKS AND VIDEOS (not pictured)

Item #3020 -Into the Mouth of the Cat -$9.00

The Story of Lance Sijan, ’65

Item #3040 -The Iskra Incident -$19.95

Autographed by Grad Author Jimmie Butler, ’63

Item #3050 -Vietnam: Above the Treetops- $24.95

Autographed by Grad Author John Flanagan, ’62

Item #3060 -Red Lightening, Black Thunder -$21.95

Autographed by Grad Author Jimmie Butler, ’63

Item #3080 -Separated by War -$24.95

Autographed by Grad Author Ed Herlik, ’80

Item #3090 -Raid on Qaddafi -$21.95

Autographed by Grad Author Bob Venkus, ’63

Item #3120 -Modernism at Mid Century -$50.00

History of the architecture at USAFA

Item #3130 -Courage and Air Warfare -$35.00

Autographed by Grad Author Mark Wells, 75

Item #3140 -The Ravens -$25.00

The men who fl ew the secret war in Laos

Autographed by Author Christopher Robbins

Item #3150 -The Secret Life of Waldo FDumbsquat -$10.00

Autographed by Grad Author Don Hall, 76

Item #3170 -ACertain Brotherhood -$10.00

Autographed by Grad Author Jimmie Butler, ’63

Item #3910 -’96 Service Academy Business Resource

Directory soft cover reference book listing participating graduates from all service academies and their business af fi liations -$35.00

Item #7080 -Video: Wild Blue U-$19.95

Produced by KUSA-TV in Denver; cadet daily life

CLASS NOTEBOOKS Two-tone gray suede cover, Jr. legal size, with class crest embossed on front with class color stripe; inside note pad and pen; available for the following classes $10.00

Item #4366 Class of’66

Item #4372 Class of 72

Item #7110 Class of’91

Item #7111 Class of’92

Item #7112 Class of’93

Item #7113 Class of’94

Item #7114 Class of’95

Item #7115 Class of’96

AOG ACCESSORIES AND ADDITIONAL ITEMS (not pictured)

LICENSE PLATE FRAMES "U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY" on the bottom of the Frame and either "FALCONS" or "ALUMNUS" on the top. Buy one for $4.00 or two for $7.00 (the same or mixed).

Item #5000 "FALCONS"

Item #5001 "ALUMNUS"

DECALS Colorful crest on awindow decal (self adhesive to inside of glass).

Item #43XX Class Decals $1.00

Available for all years except 78 and "92.

Specify class year.

Item #7072 AOG Membership Decal $1.00

HONOR MEDALLION A21/2" diameter brass medallion with the Honor Code on one side and Prop & Wings on the other.

Item #7120 Honor MedaUion $15.00

Item #7121 Honor Medallion with Stand $35.00

BLAZER PATCHES Pin-back patch embroidered with appropriate crest.

Item #1800 AOG Blazer Patch $23.00

Item #1801 AFA Blazer Patch $23.00

USAFA NECKTIE Silk tie with USAFA and Prop &Wings design.

Item #1600 BLUE, USAFA Tie $23.00

Item #1601 GARNET (red), USAFA Tie $23.00

AOG TIE TACK or CHARM Metal AOG Crest. Approx. 7/8" size.

Item #7030 AOG Charm $26.00

Item #7031 AOG Tie Tack $26.00

Item #7033 AOG Lapel Pin $26.00

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS Etched in brass and finished in 24K gold.

Item #7160 1993 -Cadet Chapel $24.95

Item #7170 1994 -Falcon $24.95

Item #7180 1995 -Pegasus $24.95

Item #7190 1996 -Eagle &Fledglings $19.95

PROP &WINGS Silver-color Prop and Gold-color Wings, same size and shape as worn on the cadet uniform w/two clutch type pin-back.

Item #7032 $10.00

SWEATERS Crew Neck Sweater "FALCONS" Blue and White 80% Orlon/20% Wool -SML,MED,LRG,XLG (sorry no XXL) Item #1560 $25.00

Child’s Crew Neck Sweater "FALCONS" Blue and White 80% Orlon/20% Wool (Child Sizes:SML,MED,LRG)

Item #1570 $15.00

V-Neck Sweater "AIR FORCE" Blue and White 80% Orlon/20% Wool -SML,MED,LRG,XLG (sorry no XXL)

Item #1580 $25.00

KEYCHAIN Blue keychain with silver AOG logo

Item #7070 $2.00

MAGNET Refrigerator Magnet (Picture of cadet color guard in Cadet Area) Item #7071 $0.50

COASTERS and NOTECARDS Doolittle Hall Notecards (6"x4.5")

Item #7073 $5.00 per set of 10 (w/envelopes)

Doolittle Hall "Marble" Coaster

Item #7090 $6.00 ea.

Pegasus Terra Cotta &Blue Water-absorbent coasters, non¬ scratch bottoms

Item #7095 $25.00 per set of 4

THE SERVICE ACADEMIES RESUME DATABASE

As abenefit of membership, your AOG offers aresume service. We have joined forces with the alumni associations of the Military Academy, the Naval Academy and the Coast Guard Academy to jointly provide alumni electronic resumes from the four academies to prospective employers.

The resume program disk is adata entry program designed to assist you in formatting, editing, viewing, professionally typesetting and printing your resume in aspecific format. The program carries you step-by-step through entering resume data to editing resume dates, titles and text. System requirements are aPC with 386 or higher Intel or compatible microprocessor, Microsoft Windows™ 3.1 or later, 4MB of RAM, 1MB of free hard disk space, mouse or other Windows™ compatible pointing device, a 3.5" floppy drive and acolor monitor is recommended (640 x480 minimum resolution required).

To be apart of the Service Academies Resume Database, send $25 (check or money order) to the AOG. Aresume disk will be sent to you with instructions for completion. Return acopy of your completed resume disk to the AOG for inclusion in the database.

□ 1would like to enter my resume in the database and have enclosed acheck or money order for $25

Your Name:

Return the completed form and vour check to:

Association of Graduates

3116 Academy Drive

USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475

HIRE AN ACADEMY GRADUATE

Many of you are in aposition to make or influence hiring decisions for your company. The database program not only sorts and identifies those graduates who perfectly match all selected criteria but it also lists those graduates meeting some but fewer than all criteria. Some of the attributes you can focus your initial search on are: education (graduate and undergraduate), work experience, military background, language ability, computer skills, industry and geographic preferences.

If you wish to obtain adisk set complete with instruction manual, please complete the order form and return it along with acheck for $150.00 to the AOG (cost to recruiting firms is $350.00). Aquarterly subscription rate for the disk package is available upon request. PLEASE NOTE: System requirements are aPC with 486 or higher Intel or compatible microprocessor, Microsoft Windows™ 3.1 or later, 4MB of RAM, 16MB of free hard disk space, mouse or other Windows™ compatible pointing device, 3.5" floppy drive, C: drive and acolor monitor is recommended (640 x480 minimum size required).

□

1would like to receive the database of Service Academies Alumni and have enclosed acheck or money order for $150 ($350.00 for recruiting firms)

Your Name:

Company Name:

Address:

Phone Number: (^ )

Return the completed form and vour check to:

Association of Graduates

3116 Academy Drive

USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475

Whether you are an individual graduate investigating acareer change or an employer seeking asuperior performer, this AOG service for graduate members may well provide you the best approach. Send in the completed form or contact the AOG Vice President, Services, Col (Ret) Jock Schwank or Mrs Cheryl Brower at (719) 472-0300for further information.

Now every time you use your AOG MasterCard, you ’ll earn it's the only card you ’i points toward valuable merchandise and travel prizes.

IfyoualreadyhavetheAOGMasterCard,youknoUr^

That’s right! Use your AOG MasterCard and earn airline

benefit of apre-approved credit line (subject to credit tickets, rental car or resort vacation days, plus much more, history verification) of at least $5,000, with no annual fee And, you pay nothing more for this new added benefit of yourAOGmembership.

Membership in the Association of Graduates entitles you to carry the exclusive AOG MasterCard, issued by Air Academy National Bank. Now, more than ever.

and ahighly competitive low percentage interest rate on any balance.

If you don’t carry the AOG MasterCard, what are you waiting for? Call or write today for your Association of Graduates MasterCard application. You ’ll be glad you did!

Association of Graduates Available Member Bene fi ts/Services

AOG offices are open Monday through Friday, 0730-1630 Mountain Time. For all offices, telephone: (719) 472-0300 (DSN: 333-2067/2073). E-mail: MCI Mail: 206-3668 (206-3668@mclmail.com).

CHECKPOINTS MAGAZINEyour quarterly link to friends, classmates and the Academy.

REGISTER OF GRADUATES— annual presentation of biographical information on all Academy graduates.

CHAPTERS—

support for some 29 chapters throughout the world

AOG MASTERCARD—

favorable terms and credit limits from Air Academy National Bank. (800) 365-5890

LINE OF CREDIT —

unsecured line of credit at 6.4 percent over prime rate from Security Pacific Executive/Professional Services. For information call (800) 274-6711.

SCHOLARSHIPS—

● apreparatory school scholarship via the Falcon Foundation.

●post secondary scholarships to graduates’ children

LOCATOR SERVICE—

need to find afellow graduate? We help!

SABER RENTAL— sets of six for the military wedding.

TRAVEL SERVICE—

year-round member rebate travel program for vacation, business and reunions. Call Camelot Travel at 1-800-877-5444 and reference the AOG Travel Number AOGX.

REUNION/HOMECOMINGScoordination and planning by your AOG.

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

CAR RENTAL DISCOUNTS—

special 10% discount rate from Budget -(800) 455-2848 (AOG ID T507400). You must present your AOG-provided Budget card when picking up your car.

HOTEL DISCOUNTS—

Sleep Inns, Hotels, Resorts-(800) 4-CHOICE. (Ask for the travelers discount for AFA AOG members, ID #C00041511).

●15% savings at Woodfin Suites-(800) 237-8811.

●an approximate 20% saving at the Embassy Suites Hotel of Colorado Springs. Call (719) 599-9100 and ask for the AOG RSVIP Rate (excludes special and group events). You must present your AOG membership card on check-in.

●save 10-25% at the Radisson Inn North (formerly Sheraton Inn North) just outside the USAFA South Gate. CaU (719) 598-5770 and ask for the Association of Graduates rate (excludes special or group events... discount depends on time of year and room availability). You must present your AOG membership card on check-in.

●save 50% at the Colorado Springs Marriott when traveling January, March, April and October, November, December. Call 1-800-962-6982 and ask for the AOG VIP Rate (excludes group, special events and promotional rates). Discount based on rack rates and subject to availability. Must present AOG membership card upon check-

● save 10% at participating Clarion, Comfort, Econo Lodge, Rodeway, Friendship, Quality and m.

Rules Outlined for Grad Golf Course Use

Through the efforts of the Association of Graduates (AOG) and the Directorate of Development and Alumni Programs, the following procedures have been arrived at for graduates wishing to play golf at the Academy’s Eisenhower Golf Course.

Active-Duty and Retired Graduates may schedule their own tee times by calling (719) 333-3456, 24 hours in advance. These are the same reservation rules applicable to all active-duty personnel and retirees not stationed at the Academy. Green fees are $16. Reciprocal privileges are in effect for active-duty graduates who have annual memberships at other Air Force courses. Golf cart fees are $16.

Nonretired, Nonactive-Duty Graduate AOG Members: The AOG is allocated eight tee times per month. Nonretired graduate AOG members who are no longer on active duty may play at these special times. Graduates wishing to use these tee times must make reservations through Steve Knight at the AOG. He will contact the golf course to schedule your desired date and time. After con¬ firmation of the tee time, he will notify you of the date and time. We emphasize that these graduates must go through the AOG office for reservations (719-472-0300).

Graduates may schedule only one tee time per month to insure all graduates have an opportunity to use one of the eight tee times. If by the 25th of each month the eight tee times have not been reserved, agraduate who played earlier in the month may

Doolittle Hall Available For Many Special Occasions

Doolittle Hall is now available at very reasonable rates for special functions. To date the AOG has hosted avariety of events: department meetings, retirements, wedding receptions, workshops, cocktail parties, luncheons and formal and infor¬ mal dinners. Doolittle Hall can accommodate as many as 300 at asit-down dinner and more than 500 for acocktail party. Available facilities include conference rooms, the library lounge with bar, and outdoor patio area, weather permitting. AOG members receive preferential rates. For more specific in¬ formation on your special-function needs, please call Mrs. Cheryl Brower at the AOG at (719) 472-0300.

schedule asecond tee time. Green fees for nonretired, nonactiveduty graduates are $40 and golf cart fees are $16. Reunions and Homecoming: Atournament will be scheduled by the Academy and the AOG to accommodate graduates at aset fee for all players. The fee will be independent of military status or golf course membership.

Corporate Members

Association of Graduates, USAFA

Air Academy Federal Credit Union

Air Academy National Bank

Air Force Association

Ampex Corporation

Betac Corporation

Boeing Aerospace Company

Budget Rent aCar Corporation

CBS Insurance

Colorado Springs Marriott

Continental Electronics

(Division of Varian Associates, Inc.)

Electronic Data Systems Corporation

Embassy Suites Hotel of Colorado Springs

General Dynamics Corporation

McDonnell Douglas Corporation

The MITRE Corporation

Motorola, Inc.

Government Electronics Group

PRC, Inc.

Rockwell International

TRW, Inc., Electronic &Defense Sector

United Services Automobile Association

United Technologies Corporation

USAF Academy Athletic Association

Walsworth Publishing of Colorado

Westinghouse Electric Corporation

Defense &Electronic Center

Corporate memberships are being offered for $2,000 for the life of the corporation. With the exception of voting and holding office, corporate members enjoy all privileges of regular members. For more information write to Col. (Ret) Jock Schwank, vice president. Services, Association of Graduates, 3116 Academy Dr., U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-4475. Phone (719) 472-0300.

SACC Service Academy Career Conference 24-26, 1997

What is the SACC!

The SACC is the Service Academy Career Conference supported by the Alumni Associations from the USNaval Academy and USCoast Cruard Academy and Associations of Graduates from the USMilitary Academy and the USAir Force Academy. The four previous conferences were attended by atotal of 120 companies and 3500 alumni.

Where will the SACC be held?

The 1997 SACC will be held at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Pentagon City in Arlington, VA. You may obtain aroom at the Ritz for the SACC rate of $170 anight plus tax. Call (800) 241-3333 or (703) 415-5000 for reservations and ask for the SACC rate. There are many other hotels available in the area, or think about renewing relationships with classmates in the Washington, DC area.

How to register for the SACC:

1. Insure your AOG membership is current as this service is offered to members only.

2. Send two copies of your resume (resumes strictly limited to one page/one side). This resume should be the version that sells you the best, not necessarily the one generated using the Joint Academies Resume Service Program.

3. Complete the Electronic Resume AND Attribute Program Disk obtained through the AOG for $25 (see order form in this issue of Checkpoints or call (719) 472-0300). Return acopy of the completed disk to the AOG. Disks MUST ABSOLUTELY BE RETURNED NLT March 21, 1997 in order to be provided to recmiters at this conference,

a. If you submitted an electronic version of your resume to the Joint Academies Resume Service database after November 1, 1996, it will be included in the SACC Electronic Resume Database,

b. Disks received after March 21, although not provided to recmiters at this SACC, will be entered into the Joint Academies Resume Service database for distribution to subsequent potential employers.

c. Recruiters at previous SACC's found the electronic database extremely helpful. Be sure yours is accurate and complete.

4. To participate in the April '97 SACC, send the following to the SACC office no later than March 21,1997.

a. Completed registration form

b. A$20 registration fee, payable to SACC.

c. Two hard copies of your resume (one page/one side)

5. Upon receipt of the above items, you will receive a con fi rmation notice with ade fi nitive schedule.

6. The tentative schedule for the SACC is as follows:

Thursday, April 24,1997:

♦Interview Prep Seminar at 7:00 pm

Friday, April 25,1997:

♦Registration opens at 9:00 am and continues throughout the day

♦Two open sessions from 10:00 am to 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm to 6:00 pm. In the ballroom, wander from table to table meeting face-to-face with recruiters from a wide variety of companies.

Saturday, April 26, 1997:

♦Recruiters may schedule individual interviews

When attending the SACC, bring several copies of your resume to leave with recruiters as they review resumes collected at the conference and may contact candidates at a later date. Although employment is not guaranteed, the conference offers aunique chance to explore new career opportunities.

If you have any questions on this AOG membership service, please contact the AOG Vice President of Services, Col (Ret) Jock Schwank or Mrs Cheryl Brower at (719) 4720300 or DSN 333-4513.

SACC CANDIDATE REGISTRATION FORM

5ACC

What is the SACC?

The SACC is the Service Academy Career Conference supported by the Alumni Associations from the USNaval Academy and USCoast Guard Academy and Associations of Graduates from the USMilitary Academy and the USAir Force Academy. The four previous conferences were attended by atotal of 120 companies and 3500 alumni.

Where will the SACC be held?

The 1997 SACC will be held at the Ritz-Carlton Hotel Pentagon City in Arlington, VA. You may obtain aroom at the Ritz by calling 800-241-3333 or 703-415-5000 for reservations and asking for the SACC rate of $170 anight.

Who will be the candidates?

The candidates will be alumni from the service academies. These individuals have learned the lessons of leadership, integrity and time management during their undergraduate years. These skills have been honed and tested during active duty mihtary service in afast-p>aced operational environment. The highest sense of personal honor and commitment to getting the job done are common traits among our alumni.

Alumni of the service academies are atrue representation of our multi-cultural society and span the experience levels from entry to senior executive.

Alumni of the service academies have astrong background in technical course material, as well as demonstrated leadership and management skills. Over 60% have jx)st-graduate degrees.

Service Academy Career Conference

April 24-26, 1997

What is the SACC schedule?

The tentative schedule for the SACC is as follows:

Thursday, April 24,1997:

♦

12:00 pm to 5:00 pm -Recruiter check-in and receipt of resume books and electronic versions of resumes.

Friday, April 25,1997

♦

♦ ♦ ♦

7:30 am -Set-up of displays in Ballroom

10:00 am to 1:00 pm -Open Session I

1:00 pm to 3:00 pm -Recruiter Break

3:00pm to 6:00 pm -Open Session II

Saturday, April 26,1997: Interviews as scheduled by company recruiters

♦

What is the company registration fee?

The company registration fee is $1000/lst table with additional tables being obtained for $750/2nd table, $500/3rd table, $250/4th table. This fee entitles acompany access to the best candidates in corporate America; open sessions to meet with candidates; opportunities for interviews. For each table reserved, acompany receives hard copies of all resumes submitted and an electronic version of the resumes with search software.

PLEASE NOTE: This fee does not cover the cost of your room at the hotel. You must make separate room reservations by calling 800-241-3333 or 703-4155000 and asking for the SACC rate.

CLASS NEWS 1/

Pete Todd

1250 Big Valley Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80919-1015

Home: (719) 531-5874

FAX: (719) 531-6697

E-mail: petetodd@aol.com

Percent members: 82

Agood bit of the class news from last fall centers on reunions large and small. The fi rst gathering was the East Coast con¬ tingent’s celebration of the 41st anniversary of July 11, 1955. Well, OK, the real reason for the party was that Skip and Mary Catherine SMOTHERMON came to town for Mary Catherine (the proud recipient of aTruman Scholarship) to attend the Summer Institute. That happened close enough to the fabled date for Brad and Zita HOSMER to declare aClass holiday and throw aminor bash.

The usual suspects gathered at Primo’s, ahighly-regarded local eatery near the Hosmers’ abode. The accompanying photo (uncaptioned and taken at the home of Kent and Diane MONTAVON where the assemblage had repaired for dessert and cof¬ fee) appears to show Skip Smothermon and Wayne JEFFERSON saying Mass in honor of the event, with Fred WYNN, Jim BUR¬ TON, Brad Hosmer, Jimmie JAY, Ron LANMAN and Kent Montavon serving as altar boys. That hardly seems plausible, but stranger things happened at the Thunderbird Motel. There was a tinge of melancholy nostalgia in the setting, for it was the last of along series of ’59er get-togethers in Kent and Diane’s home before they moved to new digs at the end of July.

I’m also sorry to pass on the news that Diane’s cancer, which had been in remission for over fi ve years, suddenly and ag¬ gressively reappeared as inoperable brain tumors. She was diagnosed on Dec. 23 and has been undergoing heavy radiation therapy at Georgetown Hospital. This development is particularly ironic since Diane was such apositive and encouraging influence as my Wendy went through her chemotherapy ordeal. Our thoughts and best wishes go out to Kent and Diane and their family and we look for her to pull off another of her patented miracles.

The main reunion event of the fall was clearly the biennial gathering at West Point for the USAFA-USMA football game. Regrettably, this wasn’t the Falcons’ most consistent season and the game’s outcome ALMOST put adamper on the festivities.

According to eyewitness accounts, the leadoff event was aget-together hosted by Dennie and Trude SEE, and ably attended by Joe and Karen

MORGAN, Wayne and Bonnie JEFFERSON, Linda and H.T. JOHNSON, and R.L. PENN. Other travelers from near and far included Craig and Joan SCHAUM, Bob and Carolyn HURLEY, Bob and Jan LOVERIDGE and Bob and Jo Ann LOWE.

Ed and Judy JOSEPHSON garnered high praise for their handl¬ ing of the lodging and other logistics for this event and reeeived the usual ’59er reward for ajob well done: they get to do it again in ’98. Joe DESANTIS and John MILTNER were assigned to share quarters with R.L. Penn in order to provide alittle adult supervi¬ sion. Ron Lanman was detailed as abackup. Other couples join¬ ing the festivities included Jim and Molly CONNALLY, Ed and Lucia MONTGOMERY, Jimmie and Judy Jay, Mike and Marian REARDON, Charlie and Sandy MAY, Wiley and Leslie BURCH, Judy and Jerry FINNERAN, Doug and Jo Anne GRAFFLIN, Don and Rowena LIVINGSTON, Jon and Margot SHAFER, and Jim and Brenda WELCH. The Welches contributed some of the product of their vineyard, which was highly praised by the many wine con¬ noisseurs in attendance. Of course, Fred and Brenda WYNN put on their hallmark tailgate within crawling distance of the stadium.

Wendy and Ihosted ano-notice gathering of the available Colorado contingent in September as Reb and Nancy LEE were in town for unit reunion. Enjoying the company after one of our rare home football vic¬ tories were Bob and Roxann BROWNING, Jim BROWN, Jon and Jacquie GALLO, Jan JOLLY and Max MILLER, accompanied by his friend Trix Scott.

This e-mail net is working! I’ve been pleased to receive mail from several classmates from whom Ihaven’t heard in years. Bill GOLD wrote that he and Robbie had taken their first Mediterranean cruise. They flew to Barcelona, boarded the ship there and stopped in Cannes, Monaco/Monte Carlo, Florence/Pisa, Rome, Sorrento, Athens, Kusadasi, and Venice. They saw all the marvelous historical and artistic sights at these locations, said they recommend the tour to everyone, and invited letters or e-mail from anyone who wants more information.

Jim CARPENTER writes that he decided to smell the roses and retired in November from McDonnell-Douglas. Then Doris told him that if she had to get up every morning and go teach, he had bet¬ ter get out of the house, too. So now he’s back at the same desk as acontract hire. They plan to “ease into retirement’’ in June when her school ends.

Finally, A1 WATERS reports that he and Janet are back in his home state (North Carolina) and are con fi rmed Tarheels. They pulled up stakes in California, drove back east to where Al’s fami¬ ly lives, and started building anew home in October.

Keep those letters and e-mail messages coming in and have a good spring.

Thought For The Quarter: Help Wanted: Telepath. You know where to apply.

A.J. (Rosie) Cler, Jr.

11181 West 17th Ave.

Building Two, Suite 208

Lakewood, CO 80215-2759

(303) 238-4973, FAX: 237-0772

Percent members: 78

Master of derring-do in the Steve Canyon mold, Ron YATES—perhaps the greatest general since Sergeant York—wrote some interesting bon mots about his harrowing Klondike adventure off the Shelikoff Straits: “In early October, John MCCULLOUGH, Dale THOMPSON, and Ron YATES went fishing for steelhead (ocean-going rainbow trout) on Kodiac Island. The trip was orchestrated by veteran Alaskan sport fisherman MCCULLOUGH, and THOMPSON and YATES were persuaded to go only after repeated assurances that the weather on Kodiac would be mild, and the fabled Kodiac brown bears (genetically the same as aGrizzly, but much larger) would be in hibernation. In fact, MCCULLOUGH em¬ phasized that the group would be ‘lucky if we even see abear!’ After eight days of excellent steelhead fishing, two bear sightings, and redefining mild weather as nothing below 15 degrees, the group started the 15-mile float to the pickup point and pontoon plane.

Unfortunately, the ‘mild’ weather did not continue. Winds picked up to 45-65 mph, chill factor dropped below zero, and the pickup plane could not make it in for two more days. The group was unusually lucky by MCCULLOUGH’S standards, as they did see the bear that attacked their provisions on two consecutive nights, leaving them without food, and the mild weather was sufficient to freeze the pickup lagoon to adepth of afoot of ice. Without any place to land, the pontoon plane was forced to radio an Eskimo village some miles away, and they came by sea to rescue the intrepid group in avery small boat.

“THOMPSON and YATES repeatedly suggested that there was not room in the boat for MCCULLOUGH; but, the Eskimo was subject to bribery, and MCCULLOUGH was permitted to come along (this was after dragging the boat over ice for seven miles). Look for an article in an upcoming issue of American Angler magazine on the trip.” Ron and Dale are no longer accepting telephone calls or Christmas cards from MC¬ CULLOUGH! (RC: my follow-ups reveal that the attack bears—we’ll just call ’em “Biff” and “Smokey”—initially measured 6'nose-to-tail. Both the number of bears and their size, however, seem to be increasing exponentially with time, growing faster than the point of Pinocchio’s pro¬ boscis. Arctic wonder-drugs?)

years, Elizabeth, died last May, and was buried at Arlington’s National Cemetery.)

Spent some quality time with Florian P. MEINHARDT when Karen and Ivisited San Diego last October. Phil retired in ’86, now lives alordly life of leisure and letters in lovely La Jolla. Still actively engaged in politics—Phil made astrong bid for aCongressional seat from Kan¬ sas—he was attending that weekend an international symposium entitled “Insights ’96” with speakers Carter, Peres, Sadat’s widow, Rabin’s widow, and nonwidowed Gorbachev. Phil later noted: “Went to Bob Dole’s bash afterwards, and the highlight was getting Bo Derek’s autograph. Itold her she was still a10!” (On asad note, Phil’s wife of 16

((

Just when we thought that the only certainties in life are Death &Faxes, along comes Jack BRUSH to worm your apples and overturn their carts. When contacted by Jack, Iimmediately dispatched my ace stringer Studs” to the Springs for corroboration. Jack had proclaimed that, after only seven years of training, he had earned his Black Belt in Karate! I’m insufficiently smug about this, since my only other athletic ac¬ complishment was a1960 turnout in handball, which Ipassed. Ican now beat up 95 percent of teenagers, all girls, and lotsa guys over 40!” Wife, Jeanne, told us that Jack, when not tearing-up metropolitan telephone directories or breaking stacks of concrete blocks with his bare hands, is full-time selling Ginzu knives on late-night TV. (Scribe: since Jack now speaks only Korean and avariety of other oriental tongues, Ihad to sup¬ ply Studs with an interpreter in order to get this story.) And, on what was an otherwise beautiful Sunday morning in November, Karen and Ien¬ countered Jack, Jeanne, and daughter at the Oriental Tombs of China ex¬ hibit in Denver, where Jack was busily deciphering the calligraphy off the catafalque of some third-century Chinese guard. Seriously: congratula¬ tions, Jack!

Jack in aKata pose, about to do "God-only-knows-what” with those knives.

Doug REKENTHALER is involved with the purchase/sale of Euro¬ pean aircraft, traveling to Kiev, Prague, Budapest, Chernihiv, Bremerhaven, and other Slovakian-European destinations which specialize in bringing the cutting-edge of Serbo-Croatian technology (RC: for example, the Yugo roadster) to those of us still working on acquiring indoor plumbing. Doug can sell you anifty L-39C Ukrainian (engine)/Czech (airframe) craft which flies 2.3 hours at 450 knots, is per¬ sonally flown by Chrysler President Bob Lutz, and sells for amere quarter-mil. (Is that in rubles, korunas, or plain-old Bucks?) However, his more unique proposal is best stated in his own words: “For the past three years, Ihave had under contract and have sponsored a14-year-old Ukrainian tennis player who will soon be entering the women’s profes¬ sional tennis circuit. This girl has more skill and potential (in the view of the top professional trainers with whom she trains six hours each day) than any of the leading stars on the women’s circuit today. If anyone is in¬ terested in cosponsoring her, Iwill send them asummary of her qualifica¬ tions, video of her tennis skills, and abusiness proposal.” Takers?

Child sumo star Tony BURSHNICK writes: “Still consulting for Na¬ tional Communications Integration Company, and spent time in Seoul trying to convince the Korean government to hire ARINC to do the com¬ munications integration for their new international airport at Inchon.” Our LtGen Emeritus also attended the AOG luncheon for their D.C. chapter prior to the Army game (lest we forget that debacle), along with QUERRY, DE LA CRUZ, BADGER, SEXTON, HIGGINS, ELSEA, and ALNWICK. In asubsequent note from wife, Karen, she mentioned a gathering at their residence in December: A1 JOHNSON won the ice¬ tossing contest, and Bob BADGER took the breadmaker award. (RC: do those guys know how to have fun, or what?) Karen also said that Tony and Mike LOH have been selected to serve on the Air Force Board of Science and Technology under the auspices of the National Academy of Science (Mike A. CLARKE and Norm HALLER work for NAS, and are also on the AFSTB).

Frank and Eve MAYBERRY left Alice Springs Way-Down-Under last

Awesome anglers Mackinaw-Mac McCullough, Timberline Thompson, and Yukon Yates, starting their trek for the stealthy steelhead.

Eve and Frank Mayberry on “The Road to Bali” (sans Hope, Crosby, and Lamour).

May and have been traveling ever since, and by now must have more stamps on their passports than Phila-, er, stamp-collecter Bob ODENWELLER. After retiring from TRW, their incredible journey thus far includes four continents and maybe afew undiscovered islands. I’m just gonna wait ’til the Sheriff of MAYBERRY and Eve have completed their adventure, to tell you the whole story.

Op. Ed. The LOH/YATES presidential candidacy achieved asingle electoral vote from Delaware (State Moto: We Is Clams); but, arecount discovered some irregularities. An article in the Dover Daily Drachonian sent in by alert column-reader George FRIES disclosed that the one elec¬ toral vote was cast by aone-armed retarded creton from Cameroon without agreen card. That significantly reduces the vote count for Roach and Ron, actually down to zero.

POTPOURRI. Steve BISHOP’S now a fl ight engineer with United: P.O. Box 3500-306, Princeville, HI 96722...Dave REED left January 10th for New Zealand to skipper his 40' sailboat on afive-month adventure throughout the Pacific...Georgie (Jedo) PUPICH’s son Alex played in the Blue-Gray contest Christmas Day, and may be aserious suspect for the NFL...John MACARTNEY and wife, Lorna, spent Christmas in New Hampshire, and then went “Down and Out in Paris and London over New Year’s...Joe and Susanne HIGGINS visited St. Thomas in December because “The water there is blue!’’...Andi BIANCUR’s MiniSki VII March 2-9 included all of “the usual suspects”...Our memorial at Doolittle Hall for deceased ’60 grads was kicked off by a$1K contribution from Mike LOH...SAD NOTES: Alan Sternberg, who left in our third-class year, died in Oregon 11/2/96. Bob DAVIS was buried at the Academy November 22, was MIA March ’69.

Hanson Scott

1300 Onava Court, NE Albuquerque, NM 87112

Phone: (505) 293-4486

Percent members: 84

Greetings from the Land of Enchantment and on with the news! First, arecap of the reunion. The Springs bunch did agreat job of arranging aschedule which provided many opportunities for casual visiting as well as providing enjoyable activities. Abig hand to the reunion co-chairmen, Mike QUINLAN and Jim ULM! Some of the troops arrived early and took advantage of golf and tours on Thursday, followed by acasual social that evening at the Antlers. On Friday, more tours, golf, and the Memorial Ceremony at the Cadet Chapel. The Eisenhower Blue Golf Course was in fan¬ tastic shape, with 35 classmates/spouses participating. Our group was a fi vesome—Nels O’REAR, Darrell KOERNER, Jim and Linda ROGERS, and myself. Lucky for us that Linda was able to keep us in play!

Following golf, some of the gang gathered at Doolittle Hall for lunch before the Memorial Ceremony—certainly the memorable and emotional event of the weekend! Included in the ceremony were the invocation/comments, scripture readings and message

by Chaplain Col (Ret) Bob BROWNING, ’59, and aroll call of deceased classmates led by class president Larry KARNOWSKI. Everyone present felt the emotion of the occasion—the highlight of which was the appearance of Earl AMAN, who was able to at¬ tend the gathering that evening at the Briarhurst Manor Inn.

On Saturday morning, several of the class attended the cadet parade prior to the Air Force-Navy game—an event that did not turn out as planned. However, everyone seemed to enjoy the after¬ noon in Falcon Stadium regardless; Jack TAYLOR and Les SCHNEIDER recapped the fatefull EE fi nal, fall 1959, for some of us at halftime. During some of the tougher times during the sec¬ ond half. Jack kept calling for aKUENZEL-LIVINGSTON play. The final event was abuffet dinner at the Antlers, where the class was entertained with several songs by Shari Isaac (Terry and Carleen storm’s daughter); aslide show of yearbook pictures; Hector NEGRONI taught the class how to do the Macarena; our class president addressed the group; and Bob BRICKEY led everyone in the Air Force Song. Agreat reunion—Larry KARNOWSKI’s letter is a fi tting summary. And thanks again to our classmates and spouses in Colorado Springs for being such fantastic hosts!

More about Earl AMAN—his attendance at our reunion was a heroic effort as he and Lucy encountered many dif fi culties enroute from San Antonio, including engine failure, lift failure, electrical problems, etc. Dick COPPOCK and John CAUGHMAN were abig help to the Amans. Following the reunion, Earl and Lucy proceeded to The Vietnam Veterans Memorial in Angel Fire, NM. There, Earl received the Silver Star in aceremony presided over by Maj. Gen. George HARRISON, ’62, for his exploits that led to the famous Pardo Push and his walk around the jungles of Laos. See the photograph.

Bob Pardo and Earl Aman

Afew weeks after the reunion, Earl wrote your class scribe a letter: “I also want to express my profound gratitude to each classmate who stopped by to wish me well, to pray with me, and to encourage me and my wife, Lucy, in this our most dif fi cult journey. Our, and Ido mean my entire family and close friends, battle with ALS has been long and arduous but we are very en¬ couraged. The fund-raising effort launched by Larry FREEMAN and Marc ANDERSON has resulted in an avalanche of donations from Gray Tags. We are overwhelmed with emotion when we realize that our classmates are more than just afraternity of men who love and serve their country: Iconsider my classmates BROTHERS! May God continue to bless our class.” Hang tough, Earl.

As many of the class know. Norm CAMPBELL passed away in November at him home in Oakton, VA. Most of the D.C. bunch were able to attend the funeral at Arlington, in addition to Tom SKILLING, Hector, and Mike RAWLINS. Norm had aclearly distinguished and varied career, including completion of atour as the 36th TFW commander at Bitburg before he had 20 years of service. His fi nal assignment was the deputy chief of plans and programs. Air Force Logistics Command/Air Force Material Com¬ mand. During his tour. Norm was the main architect of the reorganization of AFLC/AFSC into Air Force Material Command. Charlie THOMAS and Iwere division chiefs on the Air Staff under

Norm in 1980-81 and we had abrilliant boss! Anote from Barbara CAMPBELL: “Dear Class of ’61—We lost awarrior, patriot, and friend. Thanks for the fl owers and the care that you have all shared with us. It’s very hard to say good-bye. It was easier know¬ ing that Norm had fought the battle as long as he could with no complaints. Thanks for your friendship. Barbara.”

Our losses continue—Charles and Linda NEEL’s only son, Charles Jr., aprofessional pilot, suffered afatal accident while flying asports biplane in etnly October. Young Charles—an enthusiastic flyer— was afew weeks shy of his 30th birthday. Our prayers are with Charlie and Linda and their family during these difficult times.

Other news: Leo RIESELMAN reports that he is retiring from American Airlines—35 years and 22,000 hours are enough! Don and Pat GRANT say they had agreat 1996—Don’s insurance business continues to grow, and Pat is apart-time math teacher and guidance counselor at the local high school. Bob and Margy DINGLE classify 1996 as the Year of the Repairs—“the roof and all machines which serve some functional purpose under the roof were replaced.” Caroll CARSON reports from Forest City, lA that he is in his ninth year of teaching at Waldorf College. Daughter Christina lives in San Diego, son Eric in Scottsdale, and youngest son Greg lives in Denver.

Don and Johnnie MCCARTER report from Florida that they “are in good health and staying busy.” Johnnie is working at acustom home decorating shop, and Don is working with asmall defense contractor that is doing well. Bill and Rhoda STACKHOUSE write that Bill is planning an aquaculture restart, while Rhoda con¬ tinues her speech work with physically-handicapped children. Darrell and Mary Francis KOERNER have added ason-in-law to the family—daughter Kristin is teaching ninth grade math, son Scott has commenced doctoral studies in modern Chinese studies.

Ireceived agreat note from Anne GRACE with an update on Bobbie. Bobbie is still working with McDonnell Douglas in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia and manages to get back stateside every couple of months. During one of his visits, two of Bobbie’s former cadets from 18th Cadet Squadron visited the Graces in Hilton Head Island. Oldest daughter Jessica, husband Bill Brim, and grand¬ daughter Maggie live in Roanoke; middle daughter Julie recently joined husband Paul Bukowski in New York; youngest daughter Jill works in Pinehurst, NC; and son Jason recently graduated from Texas A&M. Icalled Anne for aquick update and was for¬ tunate to visit with Bobbie—his responsibility includes McDon¬ nell Douglas activities in Saudi Arabia, Oman, Kuwait, UAE, and Egypt, and he is eagerly anticipating apermanent return to the United States.

John Jernigan, ’71, Bobbie Grace, and Dail Turner.

Jim WILHELM wants to let everyone know that there are still two dozen class crest mementos (tie tack and charm, $10 each) left from the reunion. If you’re interested, get in touch with Dick COPPOCK at the AOG or Jim at home.

And fi nally: Tom ELLER recently conducted ascribe change of command between Ed ZOMPA and yours truly, and Tom (CINC Scribes) asked that Iinclude this note: “Many thanks Scotty for the great job you did with the column. Best wishes to you and Laraine. Welcome aboard, Ed and Gayle. Looking forward to your columns.” Scribe address: Edward A. Zompa, 121 Scenic Drive Madison, AL 35758; phone (205) 971-8973. Many thanks for everyone’s help during the last four and ahalf years.

John W. “Jack” Jamba

4Judy Court

Satellite Beach, FL 32937

Home: (407) 777-5520

Office: (407) 861-3519

E-mail: jwjamba@aol.com

Percent members: 71

Hi Redtags! It’s the day after Christmas and Ihave afew family up¬ dates from the class. Got acard from Charlie and Mary Jo PRICE with a picture of their dog, Maxine. Ican’t put it in the column because Maxine isn’t agrad. Too bad Maxine. Mary Jo had her second career hole-in-one while Charlie continues to travel and skip his golf game. No justice is there, Charlie? Thanks.

Got acard from Mary Kay and Don EGAN with the family picture (see photo). Erin will finish med school in June and plans to do aresidency in family practice in Chicago. Becky graduated from college in June ’96 and is working in NYC. Todd is still In Denver, has bought ahouse and has a significant other, with no immediate marriage plans. And Don and Mary Kay are considering building ahouse. Looking forward to seeing you at the reunion.

Got acard, newsletter and family picture from Connie and Owen HAWKINS (see photo). Owen is still hacking on his computers, running his BBS and surfing the web. Connie is still riding her horse and bringing home the ribbons. They are planning atrip around the country by RV. They may pop in on you. Colin is graduating from Uof Washington with astatistics degree. Cory is asenior at UC Davis and will graduate next fall with adegree in English. Chris is starting his own graphics company in San Francisco. Kim is working for aproduction company and doing documentaries for the Discovery Channel. Greg has moved to Seattle to get amaster’s in English and teach. Thanks, Owen.

The Egans, from left, Mary Kay, Don, Erin, Todd and Becky.

The Hawkins: Owen and Connie with Chris, Cory, Cotin, Greg and Kim.

Got acard and newsletter from Nancy and Willie GRAY. Willie is still working for Lockheed Martin and has aproposal of fi ce in nearby Melbourne. His home office is in New Jersey but he lives amile up the road from me. So he gets to go home at night for now. Nancy is still teaching at aMontessori school and singing in the church choir. Larry is still in Atlanta in amanagement training program for arestaurant while his band waits to be discovered. Christine and John are still in Gainesville where she pursues aPh.D. in psychology and he works for the Uof Florida. Nancy and Willie went back to Hawaii for aunit reunion last summer (see photo) and are planning atrip to England this June to keep a 20-year-old promise that Willie made.

Willie and Nancy Gray on Hawaii vacation and unit reunion.

Gail and Peggy PECK sent aChristmas update. Jenny graduated from Valley High School No. 8or 9in her class with asemester of college out of the way and is now in adorm at UNLV. Elizabeth had to change her schools (sophomore) and is back with old friends from middle school. As for the bigger kids, Scott is in San Antonio with two grandkids. Jack is in London with three grandkids. And Kayte is engaged. She is also the only woman in anew AT&T Internet commercial who is surfing the net; look for her. Gail arranged atailgate for the USAFA vs UNLV game.

PERLOTTOs, DEBERRYs and PK ROBINSONs were there with three ’60 grads: PUPICH, JOLLY and DK JOHNSON. Rick Perlotto is still driving MD-80s for American, Bob DeBerry is into computer security and PK is arising star with Wells Fargo Bank. Gail continues to struggle with commercial airplane parts business (Great Western Aircraft Parts) and is semi-hooked on Chuck CHEESEMAN’s Ximango motorized gliders.

While Iwas doing this column, the mail came with more Redtag news. Greetings from Chuck and Debbie Cheeseman. Chuck’s dad passed away in June. Emmy, 6Vi, is in first grade now and developing into atop stu¬ dent. Charlie III is now three and exploding verbally. Chuck flew his Ximango glider to the Oshkosh Convention in July. Debbie is marketing individual quilt patterns to retailers—Keepsake Quilting’s catalog will feature one in the spring issue. Ralph CONLAN hosted the Thunderbirds and other military aircrews for the Daytona Skyfest airshow in October. Chuck helped.

Also in the mail was news from Larry and Penny GOOCH. Both of them are supporting Habitat for Humanity about adozen times per year. They inspected Jennifer and Jeff’s new house in Denver. Then they went to Redding, CA, to marry off Laura to David Faudree. Winnie placed her designer jewelry in several local galleries and then went to New York with Penny to open more venues. Look for Eccentric Designs by Winifred. Larry said that Penny invented an augmentation device for bras called BooBeez. She was advised that the cost of apatent and production was too prohibitive. As an alternative, Penny took up piano and is doing quite well now. See you in Nov if Penny forgives you.

Got an e-mail from George THOMPSON in Sept. He and son flew in son’s Cessna 172 from Idaho to Texas for an overnight with Bob STAIB and phone conversation with Jerry SMITH. On to New York to visit oldest daughter where her cardiologist husband had set up practice. Then back to Idaho. George also flew to Seattle to stay with Warren ROBBINS and to get his new FAA physical and meet his son who flew down from Alaska where he had spent two months fighting fires. Anyone who wants to visit St. Petersburg or Pskov should make arrangements and contact George well in advance so he can adjust his schedule and help you. He’s planning to be at the 35th.

Got aChristmas letter from Dave and Fran LEE. Dave was honored as faculty advisor for Uof Dayton Rowing Club. The team named their new eight-person boat the David RLee. Fran worked at H&R Block again during the tax season and hopes to do her 18th season in ’97. Son John

took Fran on atrip to Coronado, CA, and Dave on atrip to Myrtle Beach, part of his reward for being in the Millionaire’s Club and being in the top sales office. Kelly is expanding her teaching duties and avariety of after-school activities. David II returned from Northern Ireland after four months of beautiful scenery but lots of political strife. He married Kimberly in Feb and took ajob with The Bartlett Tree Expert Co in Ft Wayne. John moved to Cincinnati to take anew job with Banc One Corp and was promoted to ahigher position in Phoenix.

Got an e-mail from John FLANAGAN. Tom KEANEY and he attend¬ ed the History Symposium at USAFA in November. They hadn’t seen each other since graduation. Tom teaches at the National War College as does Roy STAFFORD. John said, “Yes Iremember the Cadet Club and packing acombo with abrass and drums into my car for an appearance at the Antlers. It snowed like crazy that night and Iwas concerned about making it back for sign in.” John’s stepson graduates in May from USAFA; are there any other Redtags with sons or daughters in the Class of ’97?

Got an update from Tuck and Ann MCATEE. Tuck has been on anew program to develop anew version of the F-16 for the United Arab Emirates. Ann is still teaching 18 kindergarten children. As Iwrite this they should both be at Misawa AB visiting son Patrick, and Kelly with two grandkids. Molly and Cathy were also expected to make the trip to Japan. Molly graduated from Harvard Business School and is working for Mackenzie in New York, aconsulting firm. Cathy landed ajob with Intrav, atravel company that caters to professionals and sponsors first class tours around the world. She leads groups through the finest hotels and restaurants in the world.

Got some news from Allen and Alfie JACKSON. This year they have concentrated on fixing up the house they took repossession of last year after their return from Saudi. It survived the hurricanes of this summer and is ready for them. Got an e-mail from Peter BOBKO. “Glad to see you’re on-line. Once again the Redtags lead the way.” From Steve METTLER: “I like your internet communications network so here’s my ad¬ dress. As you build up alist Iwould like to have access to it. We’ll find out how computer literate our class is. We were all engineers at one point right? So this should be easy.” From Dave FIELDS: “Just wanted to check in and add my e-mail address to your files.”

From Hesh ALTMAN: “Just anote to inform you of my new e-mail address. For any of these e-mail addresses, please contact your scribe. They take up too much space to list them all in the column.

Got acall from Art FARRINGTON telling me about his new venture called QIQ Connections. For businesses with big phone bills, he can get low phone rates of 9.2 cents aminute 24 hours aday. Give him acall. Got acard from Tim GILMARTIN in Nov. There was areunion committee (see photo) meeting at Jim MACK’s house just before the CSU-AFA game. They planned activities, looked at merchandise and decided on a class gift. At the suggestion of Don EGAN and after much discussion, it was decided to establish aClass of 1962 Endowment Fund which could be used to support the Academy, AOG, Athletic Assoc or anything we wanted. All donations would be tax deductible. Jack SWONSON and Jerry SMITH will do the leg work on the fund.

Now for some sad news. Fred HENDRYX’ wife, Arlene, has colon cancer and has been placed in ahospice in Cincinnati. She is being made as comfortable as possible. Fred would certainly like to hear from classmates. Also, Colin RICHARDSON has bladder cancer. He has had surgery and is undergoing chemotherapy. Ijust talked to him afew minutes ago. His e-mail is CRich713@aol.com. He lives at 305 Norwood

The Redtag 35th Reunion Committee: standing from left are Jim Mack, Bob Hopkins, Bob McNaughton, Jon Staples and Mike Tietge. Sitting are Bob Scauzillo, Don Egan, Tim Gilmartin and Jack Swonson.

Ave., Satellite Beach, FL 32937. Phone is 407-777-2177. I’m sure any contact would be appreciated. Call or write.

Last item is the e-mail network and home page. Ihaven’t had time to work it but will do so during this holiday break. Those of you who gave me e-mail addresses will have heard from me by the time you read this col¬ umn. I’ll report progress in the next column. Cheers. Go REDTAGS!

Norman I. Lee III

17532 N.E. 38th Court

Redmond, WA 98052

W: (206) 237-6004 H: (206) 882-0968

Internet (via Prodigy); HHMM30A® PRODIGY.COM

Percent members: 76

What agreat group, the Class of 1963! Because of your wonderful in¬ puts to the Class News, this time Iam stuck with the difficult but pleasant task of getting as much as Ican into the small space allotted by the editor. This is not acomplaint. Lots of activity since the last time; most notably, the mini-reunion held during the Navy game in October. Jimmie BUTLER’S e-mail gave me aquick rundown claiming the event asuccess except for the outcome of the game. Maintaining the class traditions, most everyone found their way to the tailgate before and the fajita dinner at Doolittle Hall afterward. THANKS to Butch VERDIER and his helpers for making this happen. Also thanks to Butch for the these photos:

Tom FRYER also gave the mini-reunion two thumbs up: “We did have agreat time at the practice reunion. The weather was perfect and there was agreat turnout. Butch and the rest are to be commended for their organization abilities. Tom said one of the highlights for him was after¬ ward at Doolittle Hall and seeing the class cups. Jim GASTON provided a personal tour. In Tom’s words: “Seeing is believing! It is much more im¬ pressive in person than Ihad imagined.” Plans for next year’s Army game are already underway. The game is scheduled for Nov. 8, 1997.

Butch’s numbers are home; (719) 260-1406, office: (719) 624-2984 and fax: (719) 634-1865.

Akey issue emerged from the mini-reunion and we’ll probably be see¬ ing what the class, in general, thinks. Up to now, no thought has been given to the procedures involving the class cups when aclassmate dies. Now that they are displayed in the office of the AOG president there arises aquestion of who and when in relation to when acup is turned over. Jimmie says Butch will be talking to Jim DIFFENDORFER about the process.

Jimmie goes on to say: “At our 30-year reunion, we had avery solemn and fitting roll-call ceremony in the Cadet Chapel, which culminated in turning over the cups of those who had died between years 25 and 30. Yesterday, as several of us stood before the display cabinet, we reached the conclusion that at least one member of the Class of 1963 should be there when acup is turned over. Pat CARUANA proposed that we con¬ sider an annual ceremony in association with our mini-reunion at the ser¬ vice academy football game played at Falcon Stadium. That would carry on (formalize?) the mini-reunion tradition started by Butch last year and add some special meaning. Family members of any classmate who died during that year would be told of our plans and be welcome to join our mini-reunion and participate in the ceremony. We could still do the rollcall ceremony at each five-year reunion when more classmates would be in attendance.”

When considering the losses to Army and Navy and acouple of other games. Bob VENKUS (Venk) asked if there is any movement afoot regarding our football coaching staff. Venk is thinking that it may be time for achange—too many coaching errors he says. He suggested we bounce this heretical opinion off his old roommate “Chubs” VERDIER. He will be able to counsel us if necessary!

Plans for 1998 35th Reunion; Expect to see apackage in the mail later this spring asking for your input to a35th reunion Class History. Jack MCTASNEY has volunteered to head up the project. Butch VERDIER and Jim HAUSER are part of Jack’s staff. Jack also forwarded anote from Ron FOGLEMAN vowing to help wherever he can. Space prevents me from putting all of Jack’s words in print but in anutshell, he is look¬ ing for 200 to 500 word “biographies and acurrent picture prepared by each of us who entered the Academy in June 1959 (775 is the number Jack gave me). Some of the original 775 are lost and we should all make an ef¬ fort to fi nd them. Volunteers will be needed to add the obituaries for deceased members. Inputs are needed by mid-1997 (July 1). Jack pro¬ mises he can translate all inputs even those scribbled in crayon and put them in acceptable English so none of us have that excuse. I’ll leave the cost issue to Jack and the class leadership but aquality soft-cover year¬ book type could run around $20. Please let Jack know your ideas and send in those bios. Jack’s address is 7132 Borrego Way, Carmichael, CA 95608, telephone (916) 962-1746.

Chief reunion organizer Jimmie BUTLER says after sending out aclass letter, he has heard from nearly 50 classmates and most were expressing intentions to come to Colorado in 1998.1 will add some of those inputs in forthcoming issues of this Class News. Jimmie is receiving donations for 30-year reunion tapes and he also asked if anyone has John DOUGHER¬ TY’S addresss. He owes John atape already paid for while at the 30th re¬ union. The AOG hasn’t had acurrent address on him for the last year, so if anyone knows how we can get ahold of him, please let Jimmie know.

Jimmie has also released his new self-published novel ACertain Brotherhood with great reviews. Unfortunately, the mailing address given for ordering your copy is wrong. The real address is 6660 Delmonico Drive, D-215 not 5550. The complete address is Cricket Press, 6660 Delmonico Drive, D-215, Colorado Springs, CO 80919. The book’s a bargain at $12.99 (that includes shipping). Jimmie said he received anote from Stephen Coonts (Flight of the Intruder among others) about the book, so thinks he is off to agood start.

Pete OGNIBENE wrote to tell me he had just read Jimmie’s new novel and says it’s well-written, fast-paced and contains outstanding flying scenes. The book is based on Jimmie’s experience as aFAC with the 23rd TASS out of Nakhon Phanom in Northeast Thailand. Pete adds he served in the same unit as amaintenance officer. For the past two years Pete has been working as aconsultant specializing in smart card technology and applications. Check out his web site at http://members.aol.com/pjsmart. Ilogged on and by gosh, it was there. Pete also says he continues to work on the Great American Novel and will let me/us know when it is ready to come out.

Adventures of Ralph WETTERHAHN: Another of our class’s profes¬ sional writers, Ralph’s second article for the Air &Space, Smithsonian comes out in aweek. Ralph says the Smithsonian liked this one so much they have signed him up for two more. One of the follow-on articles is about North Vietnamese fighter pilots that he hopes to expand into a book. The second assignment is about Long Tieng, asecret CIA-run base in Laos where an outfit called the Ravens flew during the war. Ralph also

In the front row, from left are Bob Donovan, Bob Hayes, Tom Fryer and Jimmie Butler. Back row: Wayne LeFors, Butch Verdier, Jim Gaston, Gary Bender, John Helinski, Drue DeBerry, Gordon Bredvik, and Bill Ball.

Tom Fryer, Wayne LeFors, Lynda Jamerson, and Jimmie Jamerson.

reported on arecent trip to Cambodia. He tells the story better than Ican and it is truly interesting: “Just got back from Cambodia. Got invited by our ambassador, Kenneth Quinn, to participate in aVeteran’s Day ceremony in Phnom Penh honoring the 18 servicemen killed during the Mayaguez Incident in 1975. Iwrote parts of the story in several magazines. The ambassador read them, then went and toured the island battle site using my articles as areference, and has now set up amonu¬ ment that includes photos and artifacts Isent him. Got to read the story of the combat to an SRO crowd from the Phnom Penh diplomatic com¬ munity. Sen. (John) McCain flew in for the event.” The Cambodia ar¬ ticles have created quite astir, generating asecond search effort out to Koh Tang Island to look for remains of three Marines Ralph reported as having been left behind alive after the 1975 battle. He is also trying to get the History Department at USAFA interested in the seventeen ’71, ’72, and ’73 grads who flew in the Mayaguez Incident.

Received an e-mail note from John NEWHOUSE— fi rst time writer. John and family live in Oregon which, according to John, is more or less isolated from the Air Force. They have sold their home with plans to move into the country, preferably overlooking McMinnville Airport. In the meantime, they will be on astaff of aYouth With AMission Crossroads Training school in Switzerland starting in July ’97 for six months.

Randy REYNOLDS and Jerry SAILORS related their experiences at a reunion of Craig AFB UPT Class 65-A. The reunion was organized after talking about it at our 30th at USAFA. Of the 35 who could have come (44 originally in the class) 19 plus wives attended which is pretty darn good. The attendees sharing acommon bond as being ’63 USAFA were: Harry ALLEN, Bill BALL (who was gracious enough to be the dinner speaker), Ken GRIZZLE, J.D. KENNEDY, Randy, Jerry, and Dick SLOWIK (the Prof we call him...he has his Ph.D. you know). Seven members of 65-A were toasted having already closed out their flight plans. Four of those gentlemen were Class of ’63 grads: A1KUBAT, Steve MEADOWS, Joe PIRRUCCELLO and Bob REX. Randy and Jerry in¬ dependently confirmed the picture was taken in front of the only decent place to eat that year in Selma, the Tally Ho Club. Randy says it is still a good place to eat. Craig has been dismantled except that Raytheon Aerospace has kept one runway open and is refurbishing old C-12s and Beech King Airs there. Iwill defer personal info from Randy and Jerry to the next issue. Thanks guys!

Craig AFB UPT Class 65-A

Mike DAVIS, former member from 3rd Squadron and agood friend of Bob ZAMBOLDI, was interested in seeing where “Beezer” was these days—and writes, “thanks to Checkpoints, now Iknow.” See we do pro¬ vide aservice now and again.

Wyman HARRIS’S e-mail reports three grandsons. His company, Har¬ ris &Hoimes, Inc., does leveraged buyouts and manages the companies in their portfolio. Target companies are profitable and have revenues in the $10 to $250 million range. No startups. No high tech. No turnarounds. Let us know if you have agood companyy for sale or know of one.

Again, thanks for all the inputs. Ialso want to thank everyone for their beautiful informative Christmas cards. Here is wishing all of you agreat New Year. Take care.

Bob Hovde

817 Dellwood Road

Huntsville, AL 35802

Home: (205) 882-9382

Work: (205) 880-0884 ext. 215/Fax: 880-0886

E-mail: therjhs@aol.com or bhovde@iitri.com

Percent members: 72

LETTERS: Ron BLISS, not knowing that his e-mail had reached me in spite of messages saying that there was no such address, wrote aletter. Besides giving me aration and telling the TRUE story about Ed MECHENBIER (last issue), he mentioned that he met Kurt PAUER in

the Boston airport in early November. They had about 30 minutes for a mini-reunion. Ron notes that we have alot in common with our classmates even though we might not have seen them for years. Iagree, Ron, that we should pity most of the world, who have never experienced camaraderie.

Ron also wonders if anyone has seen Dan KEARNS? He hasn’t seen him for 23 years. (Speaking of Ed MECHENBIER: Ed, the next time you call, the phone won’t ring 23 times. You’ll notice that Inow have an ex¬ tension number. That means that amachine will answer and ask you to enter 215 to get me. You still might get my voice mail, and then you’ll have to leave amessage, which if Iretrieve, Imight answer. Do you understand now how technology is helping us all to live and work better?) V Is .

Mike Robbins and Bill Peterson (’67) outside Bill’s house in India.

Mike ROBBINS also writes from New Delhi (Yes, that’s as in India!). The picture is of him and Bill Peterson (’67), who is there with General Electric. They form two-thirds of the New Delhi, India, Chapter of AOG. The missing member is Col Jim LUNTZEL (’74), the air attache. The house (palace) in the background is Bill and Donna’s. They live on 18 acres outside of town. Now that you really feel sorry for them, don’t. They moved back to the States just after the picture was taken.

Mike and Leslie have been living in New Delhi since March 1996. Mike says it’s achallenge, but there are some rewards. With three kids in col¬ lege, Mike says he has to stay overseas until they all graduate. He still owns his house in Ft Worth, even if he can’t afford to come home. His son lives in the house, so you can send mail there if you have an urge to communicate with Mike.

E-Mail/Letter$: Tony COVIAS also tried several times to e-mail me and finally resorted to printing it out and sending it via snail-mail. Tony, if you look at the e-mail address at the top of the article, it says “T-h-e-RJ-H-s”, not “RJHs”. Irealize that in the last issue the printer messed you up abit by putting aspace between the “The” and the “RJHs”, but con¬ sider it atrick question—it’s left up to the student to fix minor discrepan¬ cies. Sandy was being cute when she made up the name, and it has caused considerable consternation among the enlightened e-mail elite. (By the way, caps are not needed, so this time I’m trying all lower case to make it easier on the printer.) All of that aside, Tony says that Christmas ’96 was the first Christmas he had off to be with Barb, his children and 5!4 grand¬ children since he retired.

Tony also had both ahappy and sad story to relate. On 5Oct 96, Don and Marilynn GRAHAM’S daughter, Laura, was married. It was a wonderful event for the Graham family. Unfortunately, on 3Nov 96, Don’s son Patrick died as aresult of an auto accident. (Don’s first son, John, died in Dayton in the early ’70s of an accidental drowning.) Don said that if anyone wants to honor Patrick’s memory, please send dona¬ tions to: United Cerebral Palsy Tampa, 2215 East Henry Ave, Tampa, FL 33610.

VISITS: Yes, people do sometimes visit Huntsville. Lee CONNER, in fact, came up from Montgomery on business in October, so Sandy and I had lunch with him. Lee is the executive director of the Montgomery Area Council on Aging. (They obviously try to pick very young people for such jobs!) Lee and Joan see ’64 classmates fairly often, with Bruce SMITH at Air War College, Joe REDDEN at Air University, and Park HINMAN running the Montgomery Area Food Bank. Also, Steve RITCHIE, Ed MECHENBIER, and Rob TORNOW were at Jay KELLY’s retirement from Air University at the end of September. Lee also spoke quite proud¬ ly of his daughter Capt. Kim Conner who is Gen Ralston’s aide on the Joint Staff. When Iwas acaptain, Ididn’t even know they had jobs like that but at that point Ithought I’d get to stay in active flying forever.

Reunion

As Iwrite this, Iam getting ready to go to Colorado Springs for the week of Christmas. My spread-out family (California, Alabama, Col¬ orado, Massachusetts) will all meet at my daughter’s house this week—so she and my son-in-law are taking the granddaughter, Ava, to Florida to visit his side of the family! Oh well, if Sandy doesn’t have to spend all day playing with Ava, we might have time to see some of my other Colorado relatives. Anyway, Ihope that all y’all (that’s the plural of y’all in Alabama) had aMerry Christmas, and wish you the best of everything in 1997 (and, by the time you get this. Happy Easter!).

That’s all for now. Keep those cards, letters and e-mails coming.

Rod Rodman

RR 1, Box 331 Pownal, VT 05261 (802) 823-7789

E-mail: rodnjudi@sover.net

Percent members: 69

It is December 16, the sky is gray, the temperature is in the 30s, most of the foot and one-half of snow we had has melted, our dirt roads are a muddy mess, and rain is in the forecast. Greetings. This is winter in Ver¬ mont. Judi and Ihave decided that what happens here is that the sun “migrates” south and west around the end of October, checks back in a couple of times during the winter, decides it is still too cold and miserable, and returns south and west ’till around mid-April when it reappears on a more regular basis. Of course, one could live in the upper Midwest, where our winter would seem like atropical paradise compared to that place.

Iwas pleased to get e-mail from afew of you. Somehow, Ifind it much easier to write an e-mail message than to drag out some paper, write alet¬ ter, address an envelope, and haul it to the post office. The advent of word processing opened awhole new communicative opportunity for me (previously Iscribbled out information and Judi made sense of it on the typewriter). Now, it seems, e-mail will take us one step further and make written communication fun.

Mike TEDESCO just missed my September deadline, which is all right as Ineed information this issue. Mike said Iwas always Harry to him rather than Rod. My parents called me Rod since birth, to distinguish from my father, Harry Sr., who was called Gene (Eugene being his and my middle name) to distinguish him from his father, who was Harry also. Ifinally have wised up and realized that it is the first name you say that people remember, so saying, “Hi, I’m Harry Rodman, please call me Rod”, doesn’t cut it. Of course, we mostly learned each other’s names from those good old gray tags on our cages. Anyway, Rod is preferred, although Ireluctantly respond to Harry, at least when Iam in agood mood.

Back to Mike who is in Tampa, where he has had contact with John SELLERS, Chuck COLEMAN, and J.V MCNABB. John, Ibelieve, is in the financial business. Mike said he talked to J.V. on the phone, but cut the conversation short when he found out J.V. was alawyer. Mike also mentioned Tim MURPHY owning arestaurant in Orlando, although he couldn’t remember the name. Mike has purchased asmall business and is spending much time and energy developing it. It’s good to hear from you, Mike, and thanks for the contact and information.

Jess OVERALL gave me an update on his last 30 years, mostly spent in Southern California. Jess joined the Reserves in 1969 and retired last Ju¬ ly. Jess has been involved in education most of the time, many years as an administrator and part-time teacher, and now as acollege professor with the School of Business at the University of LaVerne. Jess mentioned be¬ ing in contact with Kirk HALL, who he believes retired from the Bon¬ neville Power Administration (where’s that, Utah) and moved to Idaho or Montana. What’s up Kirk? Also, Jess said he believes that John BLACKMAR also retired from the Reserves recently, and that Ross ROBERTS is working for Boeing in Seattle, which apparently will become the Boeing/McDonnell Douglas conglomerate shortly.

Jess made acomment worthy of more than apassing thought. In sum¬ mary, Jess, calling on his varied and extensive background in higher education, praised the education we received at the Zoo, where our in¬ structors were evaluated on their teaching performance rather than their research ability. He expressed his concern with the civilianization of the Academy academic environment, as Iimagine many of us have, either to ourselves or to others. Politics wins out in the end, regardless of what’s really best, Iguess. Thanks for giving us your reasoned insight, Jess.

Athird e-mail from Chuck RYERSON squeaked in under the wire. Chuck lives in Homestead, FL, having survived Hurricane Andrew, and commutes to Los Angeles where he fl ies United Airlines B-737/300s/500s. Chuck doesn’t suffer from jet lag, as he is never really sure what time it is. Maybe he just keeps his watch set on Zulu! Chuck has ahouse in Pasadena also, and says he hopes to bid up to the B-767 soon.

Chuck said he visited with Steve and Donna AMDOR in Albuquerque in November, where the Amdors are building anew house, custom designed by themselves. Chuck also mentioned Jim MCGORRY living in Denver and working for Hughes. Chuck suggested getting up alist of e-mail addresses for our class. If you will send me your e-mail addresses. I’ll provide alist of e-mail addresses to you for our class. Takes up too much space to list them in the column.

Just received aChristmas card from Chuck and Mary COLEMAN (the Rodmans haven’t got their’s out yet). Chuck and Mary are in Tampa, after their three-or-so-year tour in Abu Dhabi. They sent along apicture of their family, taken at Thanksgiving.

Phil and Cindy PARKER checked in with aChristmas card as well ■from their new home in Mansfield, TX. Apparently Phil had been invited to move, along with his job, from cold, snowy New York to only occa¬ sionally cold, snowy Texas. Phil and Cindy say, “they are unchanged...well, afew more pounds, afew less hairs—so what?”

Since last writing, Judi and Iduring the month of November visited my mother in San Luis Obispo, CA, Judi having once survived the onslaught of tourists for our “fall foliage season” in her job as museum shop manager. Sooner or later we may decide our bodies and minds would en¬ joy winter in Florida and summer in California much more than all year in Vermont. It rarely snows in Florida and there are no bugs in Califor¬ nia. All we have to do is grab onto one of those “virtual careers” Ikeep reading about.

While in California, we visited with our good friends Bill and Marge NIELSEN at their home in San Bernardino. They are well and we enjoyed the visit. For alook at the four of us, see the photo. Bill and Ishould have had our sunglasses on as the wives look great and we look “squinty”.

From left are Bill,

Although it will be March when you read this, Ihope all of you and yours enjoyed avery merry Christmas and are well into ahappy and healthy New Year. Also, let’s trust that our space traveler, John BLAHA, has completed his Mir Space Station mission and returned safely to Bren¬ da, his family, and the rest of us.

P.S. Ijust had anice long conversation with Rick ZURBRUGG. Rick volunteered to take over the duties as class scribe starting with the issue which will be written in June 1997 and appear in September 1997. Rick and his wife, Jo, are enjoying apart-time retired life at Hilton Head Island and apart-time working life as pediatricians in Atlanta.

Please send all further inputs for this column to Rick Zurbrugg at P.O.

From left are. Chuck, daughter Lucia, son C.B. and wife Sharon, Mary, daughter Amy and husband Chris, and granddaughter Maddie.

Marge, Rod, and Judi.

Box 22615, Hilton Head Island, SC 29925-2615; telephone (803) 689-5321; e-mail; 75630.2347@compuserve.com. He’ll appreciate your help in keeping us all in touch. Until we meet again.

Ryan Denny

1210 Applewhite Road

O’Fallon, IL 62269

Home: (618) 624-4255

Work: (314) 232-4180

E-mail: 74552.336@Compuserve.com

Percent members; 73

Greetings Redtags! How about that 30th Reunion? It was afirst-class affair—and agreat party. Well over 200 members of the Class of ’66 showed up, including some lost souls who hadn’t been seen for 30 years (or more). This was the fourth reunion Ihave attended for the Class of ’66 (10, 20, 25, 30) and each one had its own personality. The earlier ones seemed to be marked by alot of competition—a sort of “sibling rivalry”. (Whose career was moving fast and whose had stalled out.) The 30th reunion struck me as being laid back and comfortable—just abunch of old friends who were genuinely glad to see each other. Also, there were a lot more pounds and alittle less hair at this reunion than the previous ones. But, everyone who Italked to seemed to be happy doing whatever it was they were doing—from being completely retired and watching sunsets to running their own companies for 18 hours aday.

One thing was clear—the Class of ’66 has produced avery successful, well-balanced (OK, semi-balanced) bunch of really interesting guys. Everybody Italked to had agreat story to tell. There was not adull one in the house (well, Idid talk to atax lawyer for awhile). Just afew ex¬ amples: Tom BRANDON had just returned from climbing Mt. Kilamanjaro. He said that the thin air at 20,000 feet made climbing alittle dif¬ ficult. (I remember taking off my oxygen mask in the altitude chamber somewhere around 20,000 feet and having ahard time just adding up some numbers.) Lyle KOEN flew into the reunion from Austin, TX in an airplane that he had built in his garage. It had a300-horsepower engine and was pressurized; so he, too, could cruise around at 20,000 feet. Jim BONEY is the chief financial advisor for the City of Chattanooga, TN. He used to manage all of SAC’s money, so this should be abreeze. Bob ROTTIERS is president of his own company in Pennsylvania. Wayne SKORA, who sells real estate in C. Springs, wandered around one night in his red bathrobe with astuffed parrot on his shoulder. Ireally enjoyed talking to the parrot. Dale ELLIOT lives in Denver and is an importer and distributor of great German beers. However, it’s because of the cases of those great German beers that he imported to our hotel during the reunion that 1can’t remember more specifics on what everyone is doing.

The reunion had something for everyone. We got in on Wednesday night and it took me an hour to get from the hotel door to the sign-in desk because 1kept running into people that Ihad to say “hi” to. My wife and kids were reasonably tolerant because Ipromised them that we would drive up Pikes Peak on Thursday morning. We finally got checked in, talked to as many people as we could squeeze in before midnight, and tucked in for the night.

Thursday morning was cold and gray, but we headed up towards Pikes Peak anyway. As we got closer to the entrance, it started to snow that bigflaked snow that makes you think that you are inside one of those little glass balls that you shake. The lady at the entrance to the Pikes Peak Highway said that eight miles of the road to the top were deep in snow and not open. Since adrive half-way up Pikes peak in asnow storm didn’t sound like my idea of afun day, we aborted the mission and toured the Cave of the Winds. Meantime, the snow kept moving down the moun¬ tains into Colorado Springs. We had agreat informal cocktail party that night at the hotel and woke up Friday morning to six inches of snow.

It warmed up rapidly and the snow was melting as we drove out to the Academy for the open house, memorial service, and briefings. The open house brought back lots of memories—Saturday morning inspections (they put carpet on those floors that we used to buff), late nights studying (not me), and that great view out those big picture windows that used to move when the wind blew more than 50 knots. My kids were impressed with the view—I was amazed that 1used to run up those six flights of steps. The memorial service was moving, as always; but Jim WOODY had alittle difficulty getting everyone organized. It seems that this bunch of old retired guys just don’t have the respect for colonels that they used to. The briefings on the Academy and the Q&A that followed were very well done. Paul STEIN did agreat job of providing very open, direct answers to some difficult questions about changes that are being made to our Academy. The dinner and dance back at the hotel was aclassy affair. The food was great, the fellowship was outstanding, and even the dancing was better than average (for abunch of old folks).

Saturday started with awell-organized tailgate party sponsored by our AOG and was followed by an equally well-organized football game in which USAFA stomped Rice. In typical Colorado fashion, the snow had melted and it was atoasty 75 degrees for the game. In fact, the weather was so nice, that the party at Paul STEIN’s little hacienda after the game was held outside in his “backyard”. This after-game party was another first-rate, top-notch event. Our thanks to Paul and Carol for being such superb, gracious hosts.

From start to finish, the 30th reunion was absolutely the best so far. Thanks to the AOG for providing the organization and support, and to our many classmates who made it happen.

Aquick note on one who was not able to make it. Art SURO had a short-notice open-heart surgery to undergo just afew days after the reunion, so he wimped out. But, the surgery was successful and Art wants to thank all of you who wrote, e-mailed, and prayed for him. He’s still crazy, though.

Summer’s coming up and it’s time to make those travel plans. Take time to see aclassmate, take his picture, and write me about it. Until then...Happy Landings!

Larry Wilson

13100 Pinehurst Ave. NE Albuquerque, NM 87111

Home: (505) 291-8949

Work: (505) 846-2510/DSN: 246-2510

E-mail: lwilsn628@aol.com

Percent members: 64

Greetings one and all from beautiful downtown Albuquerque. It is the holiday season as Icompose this, and homes are aglow with farolitos and luminarias and other New Mexico holiday ornamentation. It is nice, though alittle snow would be nice to cover the dull brown. It is definitely NOT the picture-postcard Charles Dickens traditional Christmas look. On the other hand, no one is snowbound, the cars all start without being plugged in, and light jackets or sweaters are about all one needs to stay warm. If you want the snow you can drive to the mountains and find it—then return to the city for your round of golf...There are some definite advantages to this southwest climate.

Please note in the box below that our reunion dates have changed to 1-5 October!

Input from anumber of folks this past quarter—first from Marshall LENNE, who thoughtfully wrote to emphasize the fact that “...we’ve all passed mid-century...” Goody goody...now we can get the many good deals offered members of the AARP, for which we are all now eligible. Marshall is still married to Vicki, his wife of 29 years. He describes her as being an exceptional wife, mother and artist. Their eldest, her spouse and daughter just moved to New Zealand, so Marshall is looking for hops that direction. Their younger daughter is ajr/sr at the Uof Memphis. He himself is still Human Resources &Safety manager for DH Compound¬ ing in Clinton, TN, and he does some adjunct instructing for the local community college in quality and contemporary leadership. Like many of us, Marshall describes feeling “...blessed with many good things as a result of the time we gave to the service of our country as cadets and of¬ ficers.” He and Vicki plan to attend the 30th. Thanks for the note Mar¬ shall—I hope to see you at the reunion.

Ialso had agreat phone call from Ray LEOPOLD in early October, just before the Albuquerque Balloon Fiesta. Ray staked aclaim—the youngest child for our class: Gabriel, born 9Sep 96. He has four other kids, all boys, paced out at two-year intervals. He describes wife, Linda, whom he married in ’87, as “a saint.” Ray had along history in New Mexico—he lived here from ’67 to ’73 and received his engineering Ph.D. from UNM. He recalls when hot air ballooning was new here, and he par¬ ticipated in the very first hot air balloon fiesta here when there were only 16 balloons (this year there were 850). He flew in five, and he knew the man—who despite conventional wisdom to the effect that he was nuts—ran with the fi esta idea. He started what is now the most photographed event in the world (according to Kodak, who sponsors it). Back in those days Ray was also aprivate pilot who taught flying lessons at local airports. He recalls shooting touch-and-goes on the Rio Rancho dirt roads. Rio Rancho is now the third most populace city in New Mex¬ ico; shooting landings on any of their roads is now frowned upon. Ray

now works for Motorola in Chandler, AZ, where he is the VP &chief technical officer of Motorola’s satellite communication group. He has won many honors, including the prestigious Van Noble Fellowship. He has 16 patents, with 16 more pending, all basic patents on satellite cellular systems. He’s had afew class contacts—in ’95 he ran into Ron BOSTON, then air attache to Switzerland, with the Swiss ambassador, at atelecom¬ munications conference in Geneva. Closer to home, he bumped into Gene LUPIA at the Alamo about ayear ago.

Last edition Ihad some news from Nate ARCHIBALD. Here’s alittle follow-up: In early October he drove his newly-commissioned son to report in to the Security Police Squadron at Kirtland AFB after his son’s truck had been stolen in San Antonio. Son is now back in San Antonio for air base ground defense training, “...to learn how to be asoldier,” an increasingly-handy survival skill in today’s Air Force. After that he is off to the SP officers’ course. While at Kirtland Nate spent some time with Dick TEBAY, his old squadron mate from the 20th. Dick is “...so busy with airborne laser projects he doesn’t have time for much besides work. Nate had met with anumber of the San Antonio-area ’67 grads, who all seem to be looking forward to our 30th. Nate and Harry ICKE (’66) are attempting to form an old grad networking system via the Alamo Chapter of the AOG—If there are others of you who are interested, you are en¬ couraged to use him/them for POC.

Ipassed through D.C. awhile back and had alittle time to kill in the airport. So Icalled Chuck BEATTIE, who has been living in Alexandria, VA since ’79, flying now for USAir Shuttle. His 17-year-old son is ahigh school junior, with all the joys and headaches that brings. Chuck related digging ditches awhile back as part of aproject for Habitat for Humani¬ ty. And who turned up on the business end of the next shovel but Buzz CARPENTER. It seems they are both equally handy in the homebuilding skills but there was aplace just waiting for them in the ditch...Isn’t it amazing where we/our classmates will pop up? Chuck had had some contact with Lloyd DUNCAN and Smoky Mel GREENE, who are both doing fine. But Ican’t remember where.

The real surprise of this reporting period was me bumping into John MCCRILLIS in San Antonio, where we were both attending amedical services convention for active duty. Air Guard and Reserves. It turns out that John knew someone at the convention who also knew me, knew of our common USAFA connection and got us connected. Small world. After USAFA graduation John went off to pilot training. He met his wife, Sharon, who was an Eastern stewardess, when he was in RTU at Homestead. He flew F-4s and had two tours in Korea; separated in ’72; entered predental school then dental school in Kentucky. He entered the Air Guard as adentist in ’83, and left the Guard in ’94. There is some con¬ tention about whether he is retired; there may be a“PS” about that in some future column. Anyhow, he has lived in Louisville since ’72 and he has a25-year-old daughter who is now in veterinary medicine school at Auburn. We had acouple of beers and adamn nice mini-reunion—much more enjoyable to me than any number of the official convention ac¬ tivities that were going on.

Sad news—Pete BETTINGER bit the dust after along battle with MS. Add him to your list of fallen comrades. Remember Pete and his family, and count your blessings.

Final class input: Ralph PALMER sent anote from his new home in Wilber, NE, where he migrated from southern California, due to acon¬ catenation of factors. He arrived in time to catch the fi rst ice storm of the year and spun off the interstate into the ditch. “While sliding backwards and gazing at the 18-wheeler bearing down on me, Iremembered alot about growing up in the midwest and winter driving...” Neither he nor vehicle was hurt. He is now ensconced in Wilber, with the weather chan¬ nel and his on-line service (palmerrb@nol.org) to keep him occupied.

Somewhere Ihave aSeagram’s Seven letter from Bill HALL, but I can’t locate it. Ithink all in that group were fine. Sorry Bill—next time I’ll try to catch up on the less-dated items.

For those of you who are beyond snail mail—the Wilsons too have finally entered the ’90s and have ahome on-line system. Feel free to send afew electrons my way at lwilsn628@aol.com. Iwould especially ap¬ preciate foolproof advice from any of you who have had success dealing with teen-aged children especially as they approached the brink of driv¬ ing. My sweet disposition is tested mightily and frequently these days.

For your reunion consideration: if you drive in, consider the scenery as you approach from north or south (the directions from which Irecently passed the Zoo). It seemed to me that there were fast food and hotel/motel chains extending almost from Pueblo to Fort Collins. The Academy itself has homes surrounding it on three sides (the west still seems secure). It is adifferent part of the world from what it was in our prime time. Brace yourself as you come to visit and try to recall how it us¬ ed to be back when things were tough.

Ihope your holidays are/were safe and happy, and that 1997—the year of our 30th—starts off well and constantly improves. May we all keep in

mind those and the families of those who are less fortunate, and may 1997 find peace for all mankind.

Tim Davidson

9712 Hidden Valley Road Vienna, VA 22181-6094 (703) 255-5313/Fax: (703) 255-5377

E-mail: timd@erols.com

Percent Members: 65

HELLO ’68! Ahappy New Year to one and all !For all who wrote dur¬ ing the holidays via regular mail and e-mail, many thanks for your greetings and well-wishes. We had awonderful holiday, with all but daughter Melissa making it up for the Davidson New Year’s party/an¬ niversary celebration. As has become custom, your Christmas news and photos will appear in the next couple of columns, since class cor¬ respondence typically drops off precipitously between January and June.

RUFFLES AND FLOURISHES DEPT: The promotion board smiled on Charlie HOLLAND once again and awarded him him his second star. Way to go Charlie! Congratulations also to Nancy, Chuck, and Justin, who share equally for their contributions leading to this momentous occa¬ sion in the Holland household. Other news from “General Quarters” is the retirement of Brig Gen Mike MOFFITT as Air Mobility Command’s director of Logistics and Maj Gen Bobby FLOYD’s reassignment from the Pentagon to AMC to replace Mike in the LG position. Our best wishes to Mike and Theo as one great career ends and they sally forth on their next; and to Bobby and Anne for being on the move to Scott AFB again for the ??? time.

The adjutant general for the great State of Texas and scribe.

GUESS WHO DEPT: On abusiness trip this fall, Ibumped into one of the original members of the Class of ’68, who now resides in Austin, TX. He works directly for the governor of Texas as the state’s adjutant general. (Maude, that’s the guy who is selected to be in charge of the Na¬ tional Guard in each of our 50 states and four territories.) After leaving the Academy, he received his commission through AFROTC, got his pilot’s wings, flew for the Air Force for awhile, and then signed on with the airlines and the Texas National Guard. Lo these many years later, he is now married to alovely woman (we’re talking star quality here), has a plush office with an efficient staff, and is aleader (in every sense of the word) for National Guard matters in Texas and the nation. For those who haven’t solved the mystery yet, this former classmate is Danny James. We had agreat reunion catching up on who is where and whatever happened to what’s his name. Iinformed him of our 30th reunion in 1998 and sug¬ gested he attempt to make it. For all who are still in touch with Danny, please drop him aline to encourage him to come. For those who would like to re-establish contact, his address and phone are: Brig Gen Daniel James III, The Adjutant General, Texas National Guard, P.O. Box 5218, Austin, TX 78763-5218, (512) 465-5006.

STRATEGIC PLANNING DEPT: By the time you read this column, our 30th reunion will only be ayear-an-a-half away. Please be mindful that the principal portion of strategic planning for our 20th and 25th reunions migrated to our Colorado contingent of classmates by virtue of their geographic location and their desire to assist. This required acon¬ siderable amount of personal time and expense on their parts, while many able-bodied members of the class simply showed up and enjoyed the fruit of our Colorado gang’s labors. While, hopefully, our Colorado WAGs

(We Are Greats) are still interested in playing asubstantial role in pulling our 30th together, it might be worthwhile for the class to start thinking about providing some support from other quarters of the U.S. and beyond.

For instance, areunion committee will need to be formed. In addition, volunteers to serve as graduating squadron representatives will be needed to contact and encourage other classmates to attend. To assist in com¬ munication, some of you could volunteer to put aclasswide e-mail ad¬ dress list together. Suggestions for activities, guest speakers (if desired), names and addresses of who should be invited in addition to graduating class members, and so forth will need to be assessed and ratified for ac¬ tion. With the marvels of modern communication such as e-mail, faxes, conference calls, etc., it appears that the Colorado guys should receive a heck of alot more assistance from the rest of us.

Until our 30th reunion committee is formally established, if you wish to volunteer for the committee, serve as your graduating squadron represen¬ tative, have suggestions/ideas for reunion events, etc., please contact me by mail, phone, fax, or e-mail at the address and phone numbers listed in the column header. Once the committee is established, Iwill pass this in¬ formation to them so they can be alittle further along in their strategic planning.

CECILLE CASTRO DEPT: Cecille will emigrate to the United States on Feb. 8, 1997. She extends her heartfelt thanks to the Class of 1968 for sticking by her for these many years and helping her to get afresh start in life. Avery special thanks from the class goes to Jim REESE, who has kept the effort on track for more than adecade.

’68 SPOTLIGHT

The ’68 Spotlight for the winter 1997 column illuminates the return of Jack DUFFY to his family and friends and the closing of the Vietnam era for many of us who have devoted aportion of our lives to this controver¬ sial excursion in American history. The youthfulness of Jack’s picture, taken at Bob and Cathy DURHAM’S wedding on July 12, 1969, is reminiscent for all of us as “the way we were.” Much of the saga of Jack’s return to the U.S. can be found in afeature article posted in the Fall 1996 Checkpoints on page 15.

ward air controller. He was asssigned to Da Nang Air Base, South Viet¬ nam and was killed in an air crash on April 4, 1970 while on avisual reconnaissance mission between Ba To and Gia Vuc in the Quang Ngai province of Vietnam. The discovery and return of his remains to Arl¬ ington Cemetery took more than 26 years.

Dennis MCLAIN provided an eloquent eulogy, remembering the zest for life that Jack possessed at the Academy and pilot training and the lost promise of what might have been. To paraphrase apoignant passage, Denny said, “In many ways. Jack was all of us. Had he lived, he would have had the same joys and suffered the same losses. Ilike to think of him that way, because part of him will always be with us.”

In the photos above. Jack is carried to the graveside by the Air Force pall bearers followed by aScot Guardsman playing Amazing Grace. After arriving at the graveside, aflight of four F-16s flew overhead, with one aircraft peeling off skyward to represent the Missing-man Formation. Following the chaplain’s words, Maj Gen Bill BEGERT represented the class in presenting the American flag to Jack’s brother. Bill Duffy.

As abrief recap, following graduation from the Academy, Jack went to pilot training at Williams AFB, AZ and upgraded to the 0-2A as afor-

The gathering around Jack’s casket in this photo represents most of the classmates who attended the funeral. From left (as best my failing vision can make out): Bob DELOACH, Bill DRENNAN, John LONGENECKER, A1 DYER, Bruce GERRITY, Dick EWERS, John MORRIS, Karl WHITTENBERG, Jay BARNES, Bob DURHAM, John VANDEKAMP, Warren LAMONT, Bob JOHNSTON, Dennis MCLAIN, Beau BEAUREGARD, Charlie SEIFERT, Dave PREVOST, Ralph SANANTONIO, Scribe, Dave MOORE, Dan BUCCHIONI, P.K. WALDRON, Bill ECKERT, John CHAPMAN, Lew REED, and Air Force pall bearer.

Others who attended but are not pictured included Bill BEGERT, Paul FLYNN, Bill THURSTON, Mike STEVENSON, Jim THOMPSON, and Glenn ZAUBER.

Jack’s return brings closure to lots of things. May all of you find your own special peace.

’68ers On the Move: None reported through the AOG. That’s about all for this column. Take care, mind the flak, keep ’em flying, and keep those cards, letters, and photos coming in!

Jack Duffy comes home.

Classmates honor Jack and pay last respects at Arlington Cemetery.

Jack’s casket is draped with the American flag and the pipes play Amazing Grace.

Lindsey Parris

5926 Colfax Ave.

Alexandria, VA 22311

Home; (703) 998-0488

Percent Members: 62

Seasons greetings, three months after the fact. Hope this finds you all in the pink and enjoying life to its fullest. Though there are virtually no cards and letters from which to draw this time, there is some interesting news to cobble together.

First, some moves. Chris JOHNSON has relocated from Solvang to Montecito, CA. Hans WAGNER has left behind the Colorado Rockies and relocated in Lolleyville, TX. John LOVEJOY has moved from Aurora to Denver, CO. Bill TUTTLE’S cross<ountry odyessy has con¬ cluded, and he is working for Boeing and living in Issiquah, WA. Some guys have all the luck.

initiatives and missionary work you all and others completed back when. Persistence, in this case, has paid off! As it did for Kit BUSCHING, who completed this year’s Marine Corp Marathon.

Last time, Imentioned Ihad to truncate Terry BRADY’s input for the newsletter due to arare overflow of information to put on the street. Terry’s still with United—no changes to report in the past three months!—and he and Karen have taken up tennis. He won the Airline Pilot’s Association’s men’s 3.5 singles, Karen was runner-up in women’s singles, and they teamed to place third in mixed. Chick KAISER and wife, Patty, also attended. Terry reports asubstantial early snowfall, and hopes to see some ’69ers out Evergreen way. Here is some of Terry’s in¬ put, edited down to protect the innocent and to keep us beneath the col¬ umn length limits.

“The aspen are turning already. It has been adry summer in the Col¬ orado Rockies. The sun is setting alittle earlier than yesterday and the familiar fall nip is in the air. The Broncos are playing on TV and have the same record as USAFA, 2-0. Everything seems possible this time of year. [Notre Dame? Then losing to Army and Navy? Whoops!] The kids have a clean slate at school, the Avalanche, Stanley Cup Champs, have begun practice, and the skis are waxed and ready. Ihave always loved the fall and the 1996 version looks to be akeeper. Itook Lindsey’s challenge in his Summer 1996 Checkpoints column to give him an update on the ’69ers at United Airlines; but, Idecided to expand it to aguest column like Les DYER wrote last quarter. Certainly Ican string asentence together as well as aDelta pilot and former rugby player. He did my bio in our Class 71-02 pilot training yearbook and Istill don’t understand it. As aresident of Colorado for the last four years and attendee at most of the USAFA football games in that stretch, Ihave seen quite afew fellow classmates.

The Olivers

Tom OLIVER reports another ’69er offspring, trumping Jeff TREN¬ TON’S January arrival by six months. Christina arrived 7/29/96, weighing in at 8pounds, 10 ounces. Both his younguns are pictured with Tom. He and wife, Marci, have tapped into anew business oppor¬ tunity-family planning for the over-40 group. It’s alow-volume highprofit undertaking! Tom adds that Steve HANNAH is located in Waco, where he is aprogram manager for Raytheon (formerly Chrysler Technologies Airborne Systems). In addition, Gary BONE is in Littleton, CO, in business for himself and doing well. Tom saw P.K. CARLTON, now heading up Wilford Hall Medical Center, at aball game at which they reminisced about pistol teams, pranks, and old times.

Two ’69ers have been in the news. Guy GARDNER—you remember him: pilot, astronaut, tall person, etc.—formerly head of the FAA’s technical research center in New Jersey, was named to oversee the agency’s aviation safety inspectors. Inow feel sufficiently confident, in light of Guy’s appointment, to fly Valuejet any time, anywhere.

Terry SCHWALIER has been even more in the news. You may have seen his picture on page 23 of the Time Magazine dated 23 December, and read about his position as the commander in Saudi Arabia when the car bombing tragedy unfolded. Ichatted at length with him recently and passed along the best wishes and unqualified support many of you have sent me regarding his situation. Terry, the bottom line in ’69-football cheer speak, is this ‘We fo’you!” Keep up the terrific work. You make us all proud.

Also making us proud are our three new major general designees: Tom KECK, Clay BAILEY, and C.J. WAX. Onward and upward, guys. Big congrats to you all.

For all you ex-rugby players, Harry LAWS reports that the AF now has a$50K per year rugby budget. The CSAF agreed to fund AF Rugby at that level for three years as atrial. Don’t get any ideas, Mike BEEZLEY, Milt BENNETT (where are you, by the way? still in Santa Fe?), Les DYER, Terry BRADY, Roy COPPINGER, Danny SPEARS, and so many others—the money will fund active-duty players in AF events only. But you can begin planning for your next Air Force career in one of your next lifetimes. This development owes in no small measure to some of the

“There is agroup of ’69ers who sit together at all the games. The group includes Glen KANE, Don CAIN, Bob KIRKPATRICK, Pat MAHER, Rich DENAULT, Tony DELCAVO, Art SCHWALL, Buddy HER¬ RINGTON, Tom BAUMARDNER, Brad DEAUSTIN and Joe PERSONNET. Mike CARRIER sits close by as well. We have seen Jerry BOESCHE and his wife, Nancy (sister of Craig UPTON), on aregular basis as he finishes up his tour as the deputy director of Athletics. Also at several games last year were Foot INGERSOLL, Flip KECK, and John BUCKNER. We gather in parking field #4 near the north tree line we used to march out of 26 years ago. If you are visiting, look for agroup of rowdy ’69ers near the only porto-potty in the treeline. We gather around Glen’s ancient van. He claims it sleeps four normal size people; or one of him. One interesting fact Idiscovered while researching our class: there are 106 airline or commercial pilots listed or that Iam aware of out of a class of 643 still living. Isuspect there are many more than listed. The ma¬ jority are employed by Delta (20). American (13), Northwest (12) and UAL (10). That is not surprising knowing that 70 percent of us went to pilot training in 1969 and watching the airline hiring picture since we were able to get out in 1977 and deregulation in 1978. This is one of those little known but interesting facts Iwould have had to extract from the Denver Post for my table commandant, C/LTC Guckert, in 1965.

“Other lame and disorganized ramblings: Iplayed in the Vail Lacrosse Shoot-out as aGrand Master this last July 4week. Makes one feel old. We played the Naval Academy Old Goats and almost beat them. Wish I had Robie JUDAS, Terry SCHWALIER, B.Y. STEPHENSON, and Jim DRYDEN with me. These guys were the heart of avery good USAFA lacrosse team in 1969. Istayed with Chick KAISER afew weeks ago in Olympia, WA. He is my old roomie and flies as astandards captain for Alaska Airlines. He and Patty have abeautiful house on the water and look the same as they did in 1970 when they got married in Oklahoma Ci¬ ty. They were off on amotorcycle trip for afew days. And, where are the following lost souls; Greg TAYLOR, Roy REED, and Perc JONES?

“I will close with the following. Iattended afuneral Sept. 6at the Academy for a1971 grad who left awife and daughter as well as alarge contingent of friends and classmates who will miss him. As Isat in the Catholic Chapel in which Ihad spent so many mornings so long ago, I reminisced about how 26 years can fly by so quickly and Ireflected on the fragility of our lives. Mark MRAZ, Bobby KOHN, Gerry LUALLIN, Barry LOCKHART—the list goes on. As we approach 50, Iam sure we share many of the same feelings, longings and frustrations. It would be wonderful to all get together to shoot the bull over apitcher at the Zider Zee or the Doll Baby or Guiseppi’s or Sam’s on Lookout Mountain; but that is not to be. Our lives are rivers of events and relationships that flow on and on to who knows where. ‘Take kindly the counsel of the years, gracefully surrendering the things of youth.’ Desiderata. Enjoy the next half century fellow ’68ers.”

Punctuating Terry’s message, one echoed in this column from time to time, is the sad news that Steve DYER died on 7Oct from unknown causes, bringing to 43 the number of ’69ers who are deceased. Do start thinking about the 30th reunion. Life is short—drink good beer. And, Godspeed to you all ’til next time. Lindsey.

Tony Marietta

1070 Knoll wood Circle

Monument, CO 80132

Home: (719) 488-3201/Fax; (719) 481-8768

Work: (719) 593-8888

E-mail: usafa70@aol.com

Percent members: 60

Hope everyone’s stocking were filled with goodies over the holidays and that 1997 is treating all of you well. Thanks for all the Christmas cards, photos, and Christmas e-mail.

Roger and Sharon HILL’s Christmas card announces that 1997 is the year they will definitely, positively absolutely host aget-together for area ’70 grads. Right, Roger. Received cards from Terry DESSERT and Sharon Suther; Ken and Kdee HASSEN; and Christmas e-mail from Hugh PETEET, none of which included any pictures or information suitable for this G-rated column, which is sad since Ican usually milk the Christmas letters and pictures for at least three issues.

Fortunately, Dan and Laurie HANCOCK wrote amore detailed Christmas letter. Daughter Kerri graduated from Northern Colorado in May and, for reasons unfathomable to any sane person, moved to Texas to teach. Daughter Heather is asenior at SW Texas and working in graphics arts. Dan finished his TASS contract. Of course, since no one but the HANCOCKs and those with decoding rings know what TASS stands for, who knows what Dan really does.

Dave and Donna STERLING declare they are just like newlyweds since their youngest, Douglas, is now afreshman at James Madison University studying business and daughter Dana is ajunior at Webster University in theater arts. Donna still enjoys teaching in the Graduate School of Educa¬ tion at George Mason University and was recently appointed the director of the university’s new Center for Restructuring Education in Science and Technology (CREST). HANCOCKs please note how the STERLINGS decode their acronyms. Dave still works at Adroit Systems supporting Defense Department acquisition programs and is also aBoy Scout scout¬ master, working with asenior level course in leadership for Scout leaders.

Tony DESANTIS sent me acard, picture and letter, and wins the most milkable information award. The picture was taken at the Fresno State/AF game at Fresno State, the one where AF was behind 31-3 and came back to win. The AF supporters who just happen to be ’70 grads are; Dana ARBAUGH, owner of amanufacturing representative firm in San Jose; Tony DESANTIS, flying for American out of SFO; Chuck REED, an attorney in San Jose; Tom RAYL (or is it George), flying for United out of SFO; and George RAYL (maybe Tom), flying for Con¬ tinental out of Newark. Tony also ran into John LIPP who works in the computer industry in San Jose. Dana ARBAUGH said that on the way to the game his son Mike (15), Mike’s friend, and Chuck REED helped rescue adriver who had gone airborne with two mid-air rolls, landing on the driver’s side. They pushed the car upright and obtained emergency help. Fortunately, she had her seat belt on and sustained only minor in¬ juries. They explained to her that if you can’t afford an airplane, you really shouldn’t attempt aerial maneuvers. Tony shed some light on the 18th Squadron picture taken at the reunion. Rumor has it that C. Lin SMITH’S wife, Donna, took it. She obviously doesn’t use 50-Minute Photo. Under Ripley’s Believe It or Not category, Tony’s wife, Judith, saw alife-size, stand-up replica of “Wild Bill” STEALEY at the software store in the mall, but unfortunately, did not have acamera. We definitely need to get apicture of this, and by someone other than Donna Smith! Tony said to give him acall if you’re in the Tahoe area.

Mike and Diana THOMAS sent acard and Christmas poem, complete with scanned pictures, which, unfortunately, won’t reproduce for this magazine because we’re extremely low tech. As happens every yeasr with Mike’s poem, Ihave no idea what he is saying. However, this year the pic¬ tures provided clues to the verses. Ibelieve son Matt graduated from the AFA or was holding someone’s graduation plaque. Matt will soon be fly¬ ing in the wild blue yonder and will also be marrying avery pretty lady named Carrie. Mike and Diana spend lots of time with volunteer work, and Mike flies somewhere in the state of Washington. Mike, the pictures did help this year!

Got aletter from aBG and apicture of two BGs. Imust be doing something right. Jim ANDREWS sent me agreat picture of John and Marsha JERNIGAN together with Jim and his wife, Margaret. Jim and John live next door to each other so they can talk about general-type things. Jim, the Inspector General at Scott AFB, realizes that those SAMIs really did help. As the AMC Command Surgeon, John probably never operates, but instead just dictates to other surgeons where to cut and sew. Jim said he ran into Joe BOYLE, Rick MORROW, Brian MAHER, and Dick RAUSCHKOLB at the AF Quality Symposium in Montgomery, and was extremely impressed with their efforts. Jim men¬ tioned that he and John spent agreat evening with Paul SCHAFFENBERGER when Paul visited the base during aconference looking at the future of oversight programs in the AF. Jim notes that A1 SWAIM was stationed at Scott in TACC, but had recently received an assignment to Ramstein as the Air Mobility Group vice commander. A1 outlined the rigors of his Germany assignment, which included playing golf with Roger RADCLIFF, Doc WASCOW, and Tim KINNAN. Jim mentioned that he and Margaret had asuper time at the 25th and were looking for¬ ward to the 30th. Their son Cliff was married to an AF lady at Grand Forks so another generation of AF is beginning. Jim and Margaret hope to see any ’70 grads passing through Scott AFB. Thanks for the great info and picture, Jim!

The generals and their ladies. Life is good. Rich and Mai HARRINGTON treated ’70 grads to aget-together in their beautiful home after an AF footba)! game. Those in the group pic¬ ture: Kneeling: Marty MARTIN, Rich HARRINGTON, Dennis HALL, Cookie (Xavier) VILLARREAL, Mike LYONS, Roger HILL. Standing; Henry MITCHELL, Ray BARLEBEN, Rick HUMKE, Mark EWIG, Larry BUSH, me (the class scribbler), Bruce HARMON, Pete FOX, Gene QUIST, and Carl Get-your-hands-out-of-your-pockets BANG. The talk

No wonder AF was behind!

This used to be Air Force’s finest. Scary isn’t it?

of the evening was Rick HUMKE’s lower-than-low-altitude fly-over at Falcon Stadium in none other than aready-for<ombat Federal Express plane. Next issue Iwill feature aclassified picture of this event. Inciden¬ tally, this was Rick’s last stadium fly-over, since he just turned 25 plus 25, and can no longer pull the Gs necessary to avoid the stadium flag pole. Bob WELBAUM sent an e-mail Christmas note. Bob works in the publishing business as the managing editor for acompany called Tomart. He now has amagazine on Disney collectibles called “Tomart’s Disneyana Update.” Sounds great. Bob! Got afunny e-mail from Jeff HUMPTON with quotes from /Miss Dan Quale. One which exemplifies the lives of all striving ’70 grads: “If we don’t succeed, we run the risk of failure.” Thanks Jeff! Received e-mail from Dave and Patty PERRON, who live in Colorado’s gorgeous Pinery. Dave wants someone, surely not me, to put together alist of e-mail addresses for all of the ’70 boys. Dave also reminded me that it has been 30 years since many of us graduated from the AFA Prep School. Thanks, Dave, for the uplift. Bill OLDEN¬ BURG sent anote. He and wife, Marie, are on their way to an assignment to the Armed Forces Inaugural Committee, then to Bolling AFB. Good luck!

Ken WHITE’S e-mail included agreat closure on his dad’s super ac¬ complishments. Not only was his dad invited to ride in an open car at the Briston 4-H parade as recognition for opening up the Arctic to world aviation and enabling SAC to become aglobal deterrent force, but honors were finally given at arecent SAC Recce reunion. Ken’s dad received the AF Outstanding Unit Award after 50 years of classification and the unit was officially and formally cited for attaining one of the 10 greatest achievements of the United States within the last 50 years. Congratula¬ tions!

MOVING VAN: New policy for the moving van section. Because of the increasing number of grads out there, only moving van cards with info for the column can be printed. Tom Kroboth, our editor, gets alarger work load every graduation. Isincerely doubt that he is properly compensated for the extra work. Thanks Tom!

Keep the cards, letters, e-mail, and pictures rolling in. HAPPY 1997.

Paul D. Knott

5655 Lantana Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80915 (719) 570-9162

E-mail: XPDZ85A@prodigy.eom

Percent members: 53

Reunion! What agreat weekend it was to see so many (semi) familiar faces, so many changes; so much that hasn’t changed and (we hope!) never will. Thursday night was the first big night for many of us. Bernie POLIKOWSKY gets my vote for the least changed since graduation. Most interesting second career goes to Bob SLUSARZ, who is adealer at acasino on the Oneida Indian Reservation in New York state. Aclose sec¬ ond may be Larry BLAMEUSER, who is into health care in abig way. He followed his bride, Betsy, into nursing after retirement and is now work¬ ing on his RN. Stan STACHAK does the six and eleven o’cloek news on a TV station in Toledo. Bob LIVINGSTON and Randy HEATHERINGTON own abio-remediation company in Florida. Harry DAVIS, in spite of what Isaid last issue, is not the 16AF/CZV, but the DO (much apologizings, Harry). Skip PEPE is, well...

Ed ALVAREZ either stowed away on or bought aship from Panama to be here. (I heard both stories.) Charlie BROWN and his “boss”. Son¬ ny CHILDERS, were up from the Dallas area. (They’re with American.) Lindsay FENWICK still flies for Northwest and worked in avisit with his son, athree degree on the Hill. Bernie GLAZE’S company just out¬ sourced to IBM. Chip HAMBY teaches college courses, picks and grins. Mark LEWONOWSKI is back from overseas, at Ft. Meade, with the NSA. Steve MARTIN works with Lockheed-Martin again. J.D. MCBRIETY works in DOD operations. Space Plane, executive. This means his office symbol is DODO/SEX. Go figure.

Phil MILLER works for anational RV firm in his home town. Frank MORGAN, perhaps the most recent AF retiree, will be moving back to the D.C. area next year. Virgil STAPONSKI owns aconstruction firm in Kansas City. Kenny MORRIS is an airline pilot with Delta. Bill VANTWOUT, for those three classmates who don’t know such things, may be the “godfather” of all ’71 Delta crews. (Now you three guys know.) Joe SAITTA is an endocrinologist in the Seattle area. Jon STEVENS works for Con Agra as acomputer specialist. Joe CABRERA works for Hughes in the D.C. area.

Friday night was the “formal” dinner evening, as well as Sonny CHILDS’ birthday. After we sang “Happy Birthday”, the DJ played a special request for him—“Blue Moon.” Sam thanked all of the commit-

tee members who had worked so hard to get things ready for the weekend together, and we made sure that Sam knew how much we appreciated his honchoing the whole thing.

At our table were Jim and Cindy SWEEDER (Jim is in the Pentagon), Nate and Monteen BARD (Nate is an instructor at the Army War Col¬ lege), Russ and Melody LOGAN (Russ is with MCI here in the Springs), and Skip PEPE. Other folks in the area were Art SIMMS, who flies for Delta; Rob SCHULTZ, Captain, USAF, who heads the medical clinic at Annapolis; Tim DUFF, who is alawyer with the FAA in Ft. Worth; and Felix SANCHEZ, who is with asoftware company that is expanding into Central and South America. Dale TURNER is with an investment fi rm in the D.C. area.

We not only found the Flatiron, we climbed it!

Saturday started with 53 grads, two wives, and ason climbing the Flatiron to put up abig “71 ”to honor the class. Did the doolies we found up there look surprised! We did our work and made our way back down without any casualties, which is remarkable consdering the physical demands of the climb, the capabilities of the climbers, and the fact that most of us had been up at the party the night before. Craig ARNOLD, thanks for sharing your “Kool-Aid.

While some of us were dodging rocks and each other, Frank MORGAN’S last official military duty was reviewing the troops at the morning parade. The tailgate party was excellently catered, and then we headed for the game. For 59 minutes and 51 seeonds, it was OK. Imean, how many Notre Dames could we stand, OK? As one who can pick up on ahint, Iwould like to pass on what Andra (Paul) MAFFEY and Marybeth (Bob) LOWE suggested; wives ean write to this column just as well as grads can. I’ll expand this to girlfriends, parents, significant others, secretaries, press agents, and folks who read, hear or even think good things about classmates.

The weekend rolled on with an informal get-together at Guiseppe’s Old Depot, a“late-night” rejoin at the Marriott, and acontinental breakfast Sunday morning. Among those Isaw, but either didn’t ask (or forgot the answer): BARNGROVER, BERRY, BLAIR, BLUMBERG, BOWEN, BRANNAN, BRIGMAN, CALLEN, CANN, CASADA, CASSANO, CHRISTENSEN, CLAY, DENARO, DEVINE, DEWALT, DOLL, DOTUR, DOWNS, DREGER, DYSART, DZIEDZIC, DZIUBAN, EHLERS, FARSHMAN, FISHER, FLANAGAN, GARRISON, GAUSMAN, GILES, GORMAN, GRIMES, GROSS, GRUESER, HAMM, HARTNETT, HITE, HOGAN, HOOPER, HUCKABY, IR¬ WIN, JOHNSON, JOSEPH, KEKOA, KELLEY, KOCH, KRUYER, Chet and “Dito” LADD, LAKE, LANDRY, LANG, L’AMMOMG, MARLEY, MATTIZA, MCKAY, MCKIERNAN, MCLURE, MINO, MIRCZAK, NAGY, NIEMIEC, NYZIO, O’REILLY, PADFIELD, PATTON, PAYTON, PINNEY, PLECHA, POINTER, RAJCZAK, TANSBOTTOM, RENNEKAMP, RILEY, ROBINSON, TOHWER, ROSSA, SANDSTROM, SAUER, SHAEFER, SCHUMICK, SCOTT, SCRABEK, SELF-MEDLIN, SHAFER, SHANNON, SHAY, SHELGREEN, SHIELDS, SHINER, Mike SMITH, STOKES, STRAUSS, SUMMERS, SUTTLER, TORBLAA, VENEMON, WAISS, Gary and Sam WILSON, WOLF, WOLFE, and WUERSLIN.

It may take another five years for some of us to recover from this weekend, but it was worth it to see so many of you in one place again. Through the talents of Keith BARRETT, you will be able to remember this reunion for the next few columns. As William Butler Yeats said, “Think where man’s glory most begins and ends. And say my glory was I had such friends.” To You, Class of 1971; Be Well.

Amost unpleasant duty of the elass scribe is to let you know when a classmate is no longer with us. Jeff “JJ” WITT died in Denver on

November 18. I’m sure that Mary and the family would appreciate any pleasant memories of JJ that you might pass on.

The only change of address Igot this column was from Rich COTE, who is now director of Work Hardening in St. Louis. Ireally don’t know if this means that Rich does physical conditioning programs or improves the work environment itself.

Some input from Martin LEBOUITZ re the reunion via e-mail: “I thought Sam and his ‘staff’ did agreat job and certainly deserve acollec¬ tive vote of thanks from all of the attendees. My family and Ihad agreat time. Although I’ve been married for almost 20 years, my wife (and 11-year-old son) never had achance to meet many of the classmates that have stayed in touch by mail or phone. It was wonderful to see so many of our classmates again—recall old times, learn what we’re up to now and marvel at how we’ve all managed to look younger vs older. As aresult of the reunion, Mike DZIEDZIC (and his son and daughter), John WAHLQUIST and Igot together and attended the AF-Army game together. It was distressing to see the AF lose two football games —but we decided to make this an on-going happening.”

As this column slowly sinks in the west, we look back on amost frustrating football season and look forward to the dawning of spring practice. Hope “springs” eternal...for example, that someone—anyone! will take pity on the scribe and write/fax/e-mail/scribble aline or two for the spring issue. Till then gang.

Bob Bell

13 Paci fi c Ave.

Sinking Spring, PA 19608 (610) 678-3182/Fax: 678-4513

E-mail: galaxy95@aol.com or 72574,145@compuserve.com

Percent Members: 48

Since you are reading this in the dead of winter (most of you anyway, depending on location) let’s hope it was agreat holiday season for everyone and the start of abrighter new year. As busy as you have un¬ doubtedly been, you will appreciate the fact that there is very little “fod¬ der” to go into this issue’s column—this due to the fact that only afew items of interest were reported.

The only person to actually use the cyber-world and AOL me was B/G Bill (Marilyn) LOONEY writing from his latest assignment as comman¬ dant of the Armed Force Staff College. As much of achange of pace as it was to give up command of his second fighter wing (the 33rd at Eglin followed by the 1st at Langley), Bill says he is adapting. The school itself has drastically changed over the past five years from an intermediate pro¬ fessional military educational institution to athree-month TDY top-off course for officers going to joint warfighting staff billets. Bill expects this tour to last about 18 months.

His last year as wing commander at Langley was made special by the fact that our own Felix (Lin) DUPRE was his vice commander. Bill also reported on the current activities of several other classmates both on ac¬ tive duty and outside the AF as well: B/G Jim (Diane) JAEGER is direc¬ tor of Intelligence of Atlantic Command; B/G Mark (Lisa) SCHMIDT is 24th Wing commander in Panama; B/G Mike (Pam) DUNN is military assistant to the Deputy Secretary of Defense; B/G Buck (Sharon) BUCHANAN is commander of Recruiting Service; Col Barry (Beth) BARKSDALE is 354th Fighter Wing commander at Davis-Monthan AFB, AZ; Col Chuck (Christine) SIMPSON is on Strategic Plans and Policy Joint Staff; Col Eric (Carol) WINBORN is military assistant to the Under Secretary of the Air Force; Col Rusty (Arlene) BOLT is support group commander at Nellis AFB, NV; Col Klaus (Melody) SCHAFER is surgeon general of Air Combat Command; Col Tom (Kim) O’RIORDAN is deputy director of Requirements for Air Combat Command; and last on the military list is Col Pat (Christine) GARVEY, director of Re¬ quirements for Air Combat Command. Working in the civilian world: George (Shirley) WARGO is aself-employed contractor, Roy (Debi) HENDRICKSON is acaptain for Southwest Airlines, Larry (Jeanne) REYNOLDS is arancher in Nebraska, and Mike (Claire) HARDMAN is alawyer in Atlanta. Bill closes with the remark that he really looks for¬ ward to the 25th reunion that will be as awesome as the 20th. Thank you Bill for all that and Ihope to hear from you again before October.

Well, plans were to have aVictory Tailgate party last Nov 9th, as Ipaid

for the Air Force-Army game on pay-per-view. Mark and Karen BILAK came over for “the big game” along with Dale and Mindy LIND (Class of ’81). Well we pulled for the team, but alas to no avail. It was not to be our year for that game, so Ididn’t even send along the pictures we took. Maybe next time...Anyway we still enjoyed the camaraderie of that com¬ mon background as well as talk of our current employer (American Airlines).

Did anyone else happen to catch the cover of the Dec 1996/Jan 1997 issue of USAA Magazine! Don’t stop only on the cover but look inside at agreat article telling the story of our own Brinn (Linda) COLENDA and two of their three sons, Cameron and Jake. If you haven’t seen it yet, grab acopy and read through it starting on page 10.

Well Idid say it would be avery short newsletter this time. So until there’s more to report, this will have to do for the close-out to 1996. Remember to make those plans in concrete for the class reunion coming up this Oct. 15-19. All should have information in your hands very soon if not already. FPA.

Thomas D. Bailey, M.D. 1807 Arbor Way Drive Shelby, NC 28150-6166

Home: (704) 482-3110 1-800-776-1054

E-mail: Rdbtwn@aol.com

Percent Members: 42

This time I’ve tried to be alittle pro-active and solicited information from classmates. Every quarter some of you will receive ashort question¬ naire. If you can respond to it as soon as you get it you’ll have agood chance of seeing yourself, and your news, mentioned in the next Check¬ points'. If you procrastinate like Ioften do, send it when you can and I’ll get it in the next issue.

Emmet D. (Doug) ANDERSON, JR. (CS-28), wife Betsy, and Lacy (6) moved to Sarasota last year and just moved into their new home. They are busy with their six-year-old. Doug is a fi rst of fi cer with Piedmont Airlines, based in Tampa, and enjoys sailing his Tayana 37 “Crew Rest”.

Gordon L. (Gordy) BENDICK (CS-9) is currently director Legislative Affairs, National Security Council, White House. He says his job is his hobby and keeps him extremely busy but that it is also exciting to pick up the Washington Post or N. Y. Times and see that every article in the news section is about something he’s involved with. Gordy also had agreat sug¬ gestion for getting news for Checkpoints. If any of you are official or unofficial squadron or group reps or involved in aregional grad network, aperiodic update of your news would be greatly appreciated for this col¬ umn.

Jim ALMEIDA, wife Jeanne, and sons John (18), Scott (15) and Eric (8) are living in Papillion, NE, where he works as abank auditor and also recently passed his CPA exam.

Mark BALDWIN (CS-20) lives in Cedar Falls, lA with wife Peggy, and children Sarah (16), Amy (14), Emily (12) and Julie (10). Kind of out¬ numbered, aren’t you, Mark? He is president of Iowa Laser Technology, Inc., enjoys golf, tennis and singing. Also enjoys fine wines and fine din¬ ing and is very involved in his community as president of the Waterloo/Cedar Falls Symphony Orchestra Board; is aboard member of the Mercantile Bank, Iowa Securities Investment Corporation, Ideal In¬ dustries and Wartburg College. He is also on the board of advisors for the University of Northern Iowa College of Business Administration. Sounds like you’re busy enough to keep out of trouble too!

Col Bruce G. BENNETT (CS-11) sent anice response to my inquiry. He is currently at Andrew AFB with his spouse, Nancy. They have two children, Brandie (20), asenior at Old Dominion University, and Keri (18) ajunior at Frederic Douglas HS. Nancy has agreat job with Temple Soft¬ ware, Inc. Bruce is 89th Airlift Wing IG. Bruce is looking for an aceompanied overseas assignment in ’99. If anyone is interested in someone with his qualifications he’d like to hear from you (joint speciality officer, airlift operations, joint plans [formerly USCENTCOM], dual-rated com¬ mand pilot/senior navigator [6,000 hrs], educator, special tech ops, mobility/logistics plans, IG and overall problem solver).

Mike ARNETT sent along letter via e-mail. For space reasons Iwill need to edit some of it out but Iwill pass along the bulk of it verbatim:

“I’m currently at AF Space Command Headquarters. I’m chief of MILSATCOM and Navigation Requirements...We moved here in July ’95 after two-and-one-half years as commander of the 6th Space Warning Squadron on Cape Cod—a phased array sub-launched ballistic missile warning radar. Life on the Cape was interesting. ‘They’ were right—being asquadron commander is the best job in the Air Force. However, my family pined for Colorado, and our general impression of Cape Cod was that it was anice place to visit, but we wouldn’t want to live there. No of-

in the hemisphere. (Maybe CE majors can say why that’s important?)

Another stop was outside Park City, UT, where Rich confessed that he had to correct his traveling story about seeing aherd of horses crossing a creek after he saw arack on what he’s sure was the male. They were moose. (And aren’t you saying ‘meece’ or ‘mooses’ now?) They ended their letter describing aquietly-refreshing overnight trek through Hocking Hills State Park, and stayed in arestored 1842 log cabin.

Eli and Doris COLLOTTA sent afamily letter from Charlotte, NC. Eli graduated with an MS in accounting degree from North Carolina State U, and is pursuing CPA-ship with tax specialization! (A sure job security!) Doris is still teaching at Ft Bragg changing from third grade to pre-K!

Other news shorts include one sighting of retired Larry VLIET in a leather jacket and riding amotorcycle in Colorado Springs. Dan GRIF¬ FIN retired from the Air Force as acolonel. Congratulations, Dan and Larry, for persisting through the hard times of life! Mike CRANFORD says “Hi” from Colorado Springs. Nick PUZAK has left the mountain view of Boulder, CO and moved to some acreage outside Boston, MA. Nick has fortunately found employment in his expertise. The boxes may only be opened by now to see what’s in them for proper dispositioning! I have seen Charles JUSTIZ in alight blue flight suit in the halls and a meeting room at Johnson Space Center. One last note: the AOG will be the keeper of address changes. I’ll only receive cards that have anote of news for the class.

That’s all the mail I’ve received by the day after Christmas, 1996. I hope it was ahappy season. May all of you and yours live long and pros-

(( ♦ per.

Jeff Hackett

1866 W. Aspen Ave. Gilbert, AZ 85233

Home: (602) 813-9605

Office: (602) 891-2734

E-mail: jhackett@MSGATE.MDHC.MDC.COM

Percent members; 38

(“doesn’t get to see the light of day too much”) but that should change soon as he was on AF wing commanders list. Mark advised that Spence ROBERTS is still at FedEx as apart-time pilot and full-time gunslinger” (fix trouble spots) for company leadership.

Igot a“hey. I’m here/hey, Iwas there” e-mail from Tim O’CON¬ NELL back in November. Tim didn’t give me any details on himself, just wanted to let me know he was “on-line” and to pass on his review of USAFA’s game at his wife’s alma mater (Cal State-Fresno): “in the four years we were cadets and the four more Iwas on staff at the Zoo, Inever saw agame like the second half!

Bill MURRAY continues to keep Internet traffic factors up with his regular letters, editorials, jokes, epistles, etc. Igleaned from his electronic Christmas letter (ah, to be atrend-setter!); Bill’s down to one happy/suc¬ cessful daughter at home. Evelyn, now afreshman in high school, is “a force to be reckoned with” while #1 daughter, Rosemary, is adjusting to life away from home and her freshman year at Baylor University. Bill and Judy continue on at Material Command HQ and high school substitute teaching, respectively.

O’COME ALL YE FAITHFUL! Eight other classmates took the more traditional (old fashioned?) approach and sent Christmas cards/letters through the mail. Well, actually Dennis BROOKS took the “belts and suspenders” route and did both! Dennis and Leslie have moved to anew address just outside the Academy’s north gate (“have agolf cart, live on a golf course...still can’t play”). Despite more medical setbacks, Dennis re¬ mains very active with SERTOMA organization, neighborhood newspaper, and work as national education director for nonpro fi t, (powered) model aircraft organization. Leslie has returned to teaching (Kindergarten) and Becky is ahigh school junior. Also from Colorado Springs—although Itold you about how well the TURNERS are doing in the last article Idid not have photographic evidence of what agood look¬ ing crowd this is!

S r # i r i m

AND ASTAR SHONE BRIGHTLY IN THE NORTH.

As I’m sure most of you have heard our class has reached another milestone with the announcement that Bentley RAYBURN and Clint WALTMAN were selected for 0-7 at last fall’s board. Through my USAFR duty expect I’ll get to see Bentley once or twice more before he moves on to wherever; will pass on “congrats” (and attempt to weasel promotion party libations) for all!

I’ve actually spoken (e-mail) with Bentley already; was typically hum¬ ble saying he felt sure this was, “just the beginning of aton of ’75ers who will be elevated to flag rank over the coming years—will be fun to follow!” He noted that many are already on the “right track” including Douglas FRASER who he had seen the previous week. Doug is currently serving as chief of the CSAF Staff Group.

AT THE CROSSROADS OF THE RIGHT

TRACKS...While on Naval Reserve duty in Germany, Jim CARLSON was able to gather and pass along words from: 1) Dale MEYERROSE, who is on his way (Dec ’96) to new job as ACC/SC at Langley AFB. Linda and kids were going to stay in Europe until end of spring semester and then make “much an¬ ticipated” return to East Coast (am hoping Dale will write/call to finally acknowledge spring issue skydiving picture and tell me what “SC” is). 2) Bill SPENCER told Jim that his e-mail “never gets through to Scribe Hackett” (yeah...right!). Bill and Kathleen are still residing in L.A. (Lower Alabama) serving as editor of Airpower Journal. He’s happy that reader interest, article contributions, and demand are way up. Bill recent¬ ly made avisit to USAFA (AOG Board of Directors meeting) and pro¬ vides arave review of pavers we purchased in honor of fallen classmates and noted that each reunion class since has followed our lead. 3) Although Gil BRAUN confessed to Jim in writing that he’s not amember of the AOG we will pass along the news that he’s been at Stuttgart, Ger¬ many for over ayear as chief of Strategy, Resources, and Legislative Af¬ fairs Division, J5, USEUCOM. Moved into that job after astint as depu¬ ty ops group commander at Misawa AB where (in no particular order) he had awonderful tour and ason.

i k.

Diane, Ric, Jill, and Jon Turner

From just down 1-25, Wayne WILLIS and his family sent holiday greetings from Albuquerque. Wayne retired in Jan ’96 and began his sceond career with Vanguard Airlines flying 737s out of Kansas City. Amy is an interior designer and full-time mom. #1 son, David, will com¬ plete his Mormon mission (Brazil) in the spring. Would probably be worth atrip to New Mexico next fall in order to catch afootball game; although I’m sure Scott and Brian are agreat pair “playing side-by-side on their high school team. My guess is watching Wayne and Amy watch¬ ing them might be more entertaining. Wayne is finding (as Icertainly have!) that little girls grow up way too fast; Lisa was New Mexico state gymnastics champion at her level last year.

HOPING IT PAYS TO KNOW SOMEONE ON THE “INSIDE”.

As anon-resident Air War College student, Iwas glad to see Chuck and Rox¬ anne HOLLAND have kept us on their Christmas card list. For the sec¬ ond time in his career, Chuck, the AWC student, so impressed his instruc¬ tors that he was invited to stay on and join the staff. They’re enjoying time there in Montgomery (Roxanne’s home town) and bought ahouse. Roxanne has returned to work as _pgrsgnngLjnanage^_at_^ussel.^Jiili_.^,

fense to any Cape Codders—in fact, my wife was born on the Cape and lived there until she was nine—we just like the West in general, and Col¬ orado in particular. (I agree—TBD).

“We had been here for acouple of years before going to the Cape, and were ecstatic to get back to our house and four-wheeling in the mountains during the summer. We don’t plan to move again, unless God says in a VERY loud voice ‘Noah’...no, Imean ‘Mike!, Ihave plans for you.’ Ac¬ tually, he’s going to have to say, ‘Pris! Ihave plans for YOU.’ Twelve moves in 23 years was enough. If the Air Force will leave me in the Springs for the next six-and-one-half years. I’ll probably stay in. 1enjoy what I’m doing, it’s important work, and the pay isn’t half bad. We’’ll see. I’m also getting involved in anew ‘mentor’ program the local AOG chapter is sponsoring. Senior officers (retired or active duty) take on a squadron to provide acontinuing, personal relationship. Looks like I’m going to get 21st Squadron...! also perform much the same role with the local Baptist Student Union. The BSU was amajor part of my life while I was at the Academy, and so I’m trying to keep the wheel turning. Work¬ ing with cadets is always rewarding...

“The really big news, though, is that USAFA ’73 is taking over the space business. Not quite, actually, but we do have an inordinate number of people in key positions. In fact, in my career I’ve never seen zoomies so dominant in one area, much less zoomies from the same class. There are currently six ’73ers here at HQ AFSPC alone. Erik ANDERSON is the deputy DO; just got here this past summer. Dennis RENSEL is in SC, and was recently selected to head up one of the four ‘mission teams’ that oversee all of the command’s programs, cutting across all of the func¬ tional areas (like Operations, Logistics, Requirements, Plans, Intel, etc.). Frank KLOTZ also just got here this past summer, and is director of Logistics. Steve GAST and Ishare responsibilities within the Force Enhancement Division, in the Directorate of Requirements. Steve has responsibility for missile warning and environmental sensing, while I have, as Isaid, MILSATCOM and GPS. Steve YESTNESS is my deputy. Ahigh-speed crash during adownhill race ended his skiing career about 12-13 years ago, but not before he had been named AF champ at least once...Dave ADERHOLD was here, as well, until he retired in October to go run Lockheed Martin’s Special Projects Office in the D.C. area. So, for awhile there were seven of us in one building! That was approaching critical mass. (Also in town, of course, though he’s not in the space business, is BGen Steve Lorenz, being the Comm and all that.)

“But, that’s not the end. Out in Los Angeles, Joe SOVEY took the MILSATCOM Joint Program Offiee in early summer—June, Ithink. John KEESEE, an ex-roommate of mine, is heading up the Milstar Space segment—he’s in charge of getting the next four milstar satellites delivered on time, on cost, and capable of doing what they’re supposed to do. On the other side of the country, BGen Mitch MITCHELL is heading up the NRO’s Communications and Launch Activities. John PRETZ was medically retired acouple of years ago, and is now working for acontrac¬ tor who is heavilly involved in the space business. Another ex-roomie, Don PETTIT, got out years ago to work for General Electric in the Springfield, VA area. He too is in the space business but if he told what he does, he’d have to shoot me. Over the years, he’s stayed in the same location, Ithink, but has had to change his letterhead from GE to Martin-Marietta to Lockheed-Martin. He stayed in the Guard after separating from the Air Force, flying F^s for the D.C. Guard out of An¬ drews. As his squadron was deploying to Turkey in ’93, his jet got sick before he made it more than afew hundred miles off shore, and he had to emergency abort into, of all places, Otis ANGB. It’s asmall world. Only saw him acouple of hours, though. They flew atwo-seater up from An¬ drews to pick him up, so he could catch aride on a’141 the next day. Gives new life to the old saying, ‘There they go! Imust hurry and catch them, for Iam their leader.’ ’’

Thanks Mike! Imust stop now for space reasons..., no, not the “outer” type, but I’ll finish up Mike’s letter next time. Some closing thoughts from aclassmate: “The credit belongs to the man in the arena, whose face is marred by dust and sweat and blood; who strived valiantly,...his place shall never be with those cold, timid souls who know neither victory nor defeat.” T. Roosevelt. And, finally, “The hottest places in hell are reserved for those who remain neutral in atime of moral crisis.” Dante—and now it is time! See you next time.

Joe Brezovic

1209 Bayou Oaks Drive

Friendswood, TX 77546

Phone: (713) 244-8089

Fax: (713) 244-8958

E-mail:brezovi@ssf4.jsc.nasa.gov

Percent members: 40

Wishing you good cheer, and hoping all is well with each of you. Already this year should be progressing nicely for you. If not, hang in there. There’s astory about aking sending his wise men on asearch of the earth for the most wise words and to have them engraved in the king’s ring. After apainstaking search of three years, the head wise man presented the king with what they had found. With these words, the counselor promised, the king would be able to lift up the downtrodden and inspire others to be more helpful in the kingdom. The king read the wisest words in his ring: “This, too, shall pass.”

First is the heartiest congratulations to the following individuals: Joe KELLY, Chris KELLY, Duncan MCNABB and Rich MENTEMEYER for promotion to one stars. My sincerest apologies if Imissed anyone! Congrats too, to Steve DANIELS (1/97) and JJ ROMANO (by now?) for pinning on colonel!

Dave DALEY e-mailed in after attending aluncheon at the Pentagon, hosting adinner for SOS international students. It brought back memories of our SOS class—only now it’s ashort six-weeks long instead of the 12 that we endured. Dave is now chief of Foreign Liaison for the National Guard Bureau. As part of his duties he had to escort 42 foreign military attaches from Washington, DC on the Spring Attache Tour from March 19-30 to Ft Benning, New Orleans, Tacoma, and Honolulu on an Air National Guard C-141. It’s tough duty, but Tai-Lee went along to help escort the 30 attache wives! Nice job, Dave! Dave did say that he’s very glad his roommate from AFA doesn’t hold grudges, because his mother successfully recuperated from being under his roommate’s. Dr. Paul sherry’s, healing hands at Fitzsimmons Hospital in Denver. Paul works there acouple days aweek (he’s resident at the USAFA hospital). Actually, Dave said his mother was very glad that Paul didn’t hold grudges!

Doug WALKER sent ashort note from his law office in Ocala, FL. Doug ran into Joe KELLEY in San Antonio at the Association of Military Surgeons of the Uniformed Services annual convention. Joe should be the commander of the Wright-Patterson Medical Center by the time you read this. Another great news item! Doug reports that Joe hasn’t changed abit and looks like he could still suit up and play any sport for old CS-23. (How many of us can do that? “Look” like we could play a sport, that is. I’m not questioning the skill theory—just testing the “look”!)

JJ ROMANO and Cynthia now send their letters out with aSan An¬ tonio, TX, adress. JJ’s the Plans Division chief for Air Intelligence Agen¬ cy now. They are in charge of strategic planning, long range planning and support to Air Force and National Agencies modernization planning. All that and more waiting for JJ at the end of a45-minute commute. JJ has found that the insurance is higher than Maryland and the driving is downright intensive. The family, though, seems to be progressing along well! Their son Joey is aBear Cub Scout, takes gymnastics and chess lessons. JJ laughed at that until Joey beat his dad—of course the “I wasn’t paying attention” excuse didn’t lessen the thrill of victory for Joey. You know JJ, Ihad trouble at that, too. Itaught my son Joseph and have played with him over the last few years. He’s 15. Joseph’s beat me the last two times and isn’t in the mood for arematch, yet!

Chris Cummins found my address and wrote in. You remember him? He sang bass in the Catholic choir fourthclass year which he was in 20th. He then moved to 4th. He did get his Airborne wings and avalid escape on SERE. He processed out after 3rd class year, due to differences of opi¬ nion (with my AOC, he writes). As catch-up, Chris went back to New York and joined the choir at St. Pat’s. He met his wife, Barbara, there! They married in 1990 and now have adelightfull three-and-a-half year old daughter, Emilyann. Among other adventures in New York, he has stagemanaged an off-Broadway show, danced with several regional ballet com¬ panies, did some walk-on roles at the Metropolitan Opera and sang with

Chuck’s in VOQ while building of house in Ohio awaits resolution of matters in Virginia. Ihope Santa brought them abuyer!

Don’t believe either of the following families qualify for areturn ad¬ dress—so much travel! Oddly enough, it seems that Mike and Diane BUCKLEY’S travels (away from Anchorage, AK) were predominately during the winter months—too many places/too much fun to recount it all here. When not out and about having fun or tending to Mike’s job as Alaska Airlines pilot, they’ve been fixing things up at their cabin and/or entertaining summer visitors. Brian and Terri BARNES have much the same routine (and oddly enough, he flies for Alaska also!) from their Washington (state) base. Terri still very involved with real estate and the Reserve Of fi cers’ Association Ladies Club.

GREETINGS FROM DOWN UNDER. That’s the opening line in Kent and Carol TRAYLOR’s holiday letter. With only acouple of months under their belts, they’ve found much to like about embassy life and all the things to do around Canberra. Megan’s school adjustment has gone well and she’s now found away to really pump up the parental anx¬ iety—combining her love of gymnastics and horseback riding in “vaulting” (gymnastics on horseback). Carol’s staying busy with a myriad of activities and has not given up her love of the NFL (she just has to adjust to kickoffs at midnight).

Thanks to your underwhelming response (and in light of apossible third year in arow without an actual Hackett family holiday letter). I’ll take the opportunity to bring you up to date on things around our house. First let me say that all anecdotes and events seem to be framed in the vivid knowledge that we’re getting close to closing the chapter of having Tiffany at home with us on afull-time basis; she’s been accepted at Northern Arizona University and will be off to Flagstaff at the end of the summer. At times Ithink we’ll be too busy to notice; senior year has been fun and exciting for all! Debby’s been promoted into abusiness partner’s position with American Express Corporate Card folks. Areal change of pace, no people to manage, abit more travel, and the happy prospect of giving up daily two-plus hour commutes as AmEx converts many on staff to “virtual offices” for at least three to four days aweek! Cannot convey how much Ienjoy both my civilian (program manager for McDonnell Douglas...er, make that Boeing) and my USAFR duties (still working for F-16 program manager at Ogden ALC). Have managed to enter ahandful of in-line skate races but Air War College is really consuming most “free time”. At this time of year you can only imagine how nice it is to be in our 16th year of living in Arizona!

MAKING POINTS WITH THE POWERS THAT BE. Winter issue is traditionally the most voluminous; editor gave terse reminder of column limitations. So, since I’ve got achance as Idid so many times as acadet, to be ahero to my cohorts by “bringing down the mean”—I’ll just leave you with Season’s Greetings (whatever season it happens to be as you read this) and the omni-present reminder that it’s later than you think!

Ernie Woollard

2717 Field Court

Rocklin, CA 95765-4913

Home: (916) 632-2817

FAX: (916) 278-6777

Percent members: 44

Greetings fellow ’76ers!

The Dark Ages (remember, the three month duration between Christmas vacation and spring break) are once again upon us and Ihope you are all coping well with the winter weather. Here in northern Califor¬ nia the rain just keeps on coming; snow and skiing in the Sierra has been fabulous, but I’m once again ready for the warmth of summer and drier fairways to increase my driving distance. The challenges in the ROTC business just keep on coming too; here at Sac State, the detachment sits uncomfortably in the middle, watching as the university president battles the federal government over the issue of gay rights tmd the provisions in the new Omnibus Law. No one knows yet whether court action is on the horizon, but alandmark case is sure to develop. Stay tuned to your favorite media source for all the “unbiased” coverage.

So far I’ve received afew updates since we were together at the reunion last September. Bill CAROLAN (Jackie) and family are happy with the new challenges at McDonnell Douglas (Boeing). Bill called and invited me for around of golf at Lake Tahoe in October. Unfortunately, Ihad to decline. Bill, I’m now ready for skiing or golf, just give me asecond chance. Tom LANGE (Kate) is recovering nicely from 1996 surgeries and should be back flying the Delta skies. Tom, Kate, and Stewart were all “terrorizing” the Mexican Riveria on aChristmas cruise with Tom’s mom. Ihope you remembered to pack your sunscreen. Joe MARCHING (Becky) has island fever; he’s ready to escape the friendly confines of

Okinawa and Kadena AB. He says he has our tee times already set up for the 2001 golf tournament.

Terry NEWTON (Karen) is fully enjoying his second career as an analytical consultant in Colorado Springs. Those math majors! I’m not sure where all my in-depth understanding of management principles is go¬ ing to take me—either the AF Quality Office or an elementary school classroom. Terry and Karen are hoping to settle permanently in the C. Springs area.

Craig PUZ is still doing great in San Diego—I couldn’t think of a greater place to be doing great. He continues to ponder his future, enjoy¬ ing his much-improved health every day. We all wish Craig the very best. Mike (Rosey) ROSENBALM sent an update from D.C. He’s made the transition to the civilian world by simply trading the “blue suit” for a gray pinstripe. Ihope the new work in the Pentagon isn’t overly demand¬ ing and that Rosey still has time for jaunting into Georgetown.

Recently, Inoticed that many of you are moving into “high” places and have been rewarded with command opportunities. From numbered AF to MAJCOM to corporate HQ—drop me aline with updates on your most critical challenges. For those of you who sent holiday updates, but due to the “swiftness” of the U.S. Postal Service, Iwas unable to include. I’ll get your info into the next edition. There is apossibility that Imay be relocating during the summer also, but so far I’ve got four very important women in my life who are simply saying “NOT.” Only time will tell. That’s all for now, have agreat spring. Ernie.

John J. “Lou” Michels, Jr.

5107 Juglan Court Centreville, VA 22020

H: (703) 802-6611/W: (703) 712-5350

Facsimile: (703) 712-5050

E-mail: jjmichel@mwbb.com

Percent members: 38

We have reached the 20th year following our graduation and Inote from the 1996 Register of Graduates that there are now fewer people on active duty than there are who have separated from active duty. Ien¬ courage everyone who reads this to begin planning for the reunion on Sept 24 through 27. It should be agreat football game against San Diego State and a“privilege to live in Colorado,” albeit only for aweekend, once more.

AT LEAST IT WASN’T ASAMI: Best wishes and congratulations to Bob DONNELLY (Dianna) who won the 1996 Jabara Award for an in¬ credibly gutsy performance leading atwo-ship of rescue helicopters in Iceland. Bob flew in deteriorating weather conditions to recover four avalanche survivors and assist in the rescue of 40 others, at times flying his aircraft into conditions that were completely obscured by weather. Bob received his award not at the traditional banquet in Mitchell Hall (I realize that use of the words “Banquet” and “Mitchell Hall” in the same sentence is inherently incompatible, but read on), but rather at aSaturday morning parade at the end of September.

THINGS TO THINK ABOUT THE NEXT TIME YOU LOCK YOURSELF OUT OF

THE CAR: Along with asizeable percentage of the Western world, Iwatched in mounting frustration as Tom JONES (Liz) attempted to open the door of the space shuttle for his two space walks last November. In typically upbeat style, Tom noted in an e-mail to me that the mission was wonderful except that “damned, jammed” hatch. Tom equated it to having to repeat the 4th Class Year just before

Seagram (Samurai) Seven, Spirit of ’76, spouses and friends at the Newton’s, Sep 96.

recognition, given that he had been in training for ayear and spent over 100 hours in the “dunk tank” preparing for the walk. At least the hatch got jammed on the way out—coat hangars are tough to use in zero 6, even if there is an open window on the hatch. Charlie PRECOURT (Lynne) goes up about the time this column comes out, Iunderstand he’s taking AAA’s road service number just in case.

Dan and Randy before.

ANOTHER SIGN THAT WE ARE ALL GETTING OLDER: Randy

VIEIRA (Jane) sent me aletter that just missed the fall cutoff detailing his exploits, along with pictures. The first picture shows Randy and Dan HINKIN (Eileen) playing around of golf at the Eisenhower Course. Ap¬ parently the par 4on the 16th hole was alittle more grueling than either of them had anticipated at their age. The next picture shows Randy and Dan the next day (no kidding, the very next day) at the USAFA Hospital. Ac¬ tually, Randy was in getting an old pole vault injury repaired (more likely an old bar vault injury) by Dr. Hinkin, whose exploits as asports medicine physician have already been recounted in these pages. However, Randy’s ligament reconstruction was so difficult that Dan had to have his own shoulder rebuilt shortly after the operation. Randy is assigned to

No softball for Bernie, John and Al. issues. Al VOGEL (Nancy) helped ease the transition somewhat when Pat arrived—nothing like having an old roommate in place to get you through those first rough couple of days. Cyndee and the kids are wintering in South Dakota awaiting Pat’s return this summer. Best of luck, folks; at least come home with atan, Pat.

THE MAILBAG; As usual, Igot aton of Christmas letters and photos. 1will not use photos enclosed in Christmas cards for the column unless you specifically request it, or unless Ineed to fill up some space. You can draw your own conclusions from that.

Quay SNYDER (Elizabeth) is now working as the chief of Aerospace Medicine for the Colorado Guard and spends his spare time as an aeromedical adviser to the Air Line Pilots Association. Not abad friend to have if you are going through the FAA medical certification process. Thanks for the update. Quay. When we last left Mark WARD, he was in the process of buying up most of Victorville, CA. Igot agreat letter from Mark detailing his recent travels, including Cambodia, Vietnam, Fiji, Papua, Australia and Tasmania. Mark reports that the Aussie commuter pilot going into Hobart let him fly the approach and landing based on Mark’s representation that he used to fly Phantoms. Based on that story, those of you traveling in the South Pacific any time soon may want to drop afew more quarters in the flight insurance machine on your way to the gate. Mark is still running his own real estate business in Victorville and it sounds like he’s having aball. Happy New Year, Mark, and keep those suitcases packed.

Jim MOSCHGAT (Jill) e-mailed me from Misawa where he has been the squadron commander of an F-16 unit since last summer. He sees Ted LINHOFF (Stephanie) around the base, where Ted is working as acon¬ tract civilian. Jim reports that Ted’s wife is with the JAG office at Misawa and he talks to her frequently on CC issues. On arecent deploy¬ ment back to Nellis Jim ran into Bob RYAN (Lastenia). Ken PAGE (Joni) is working at the Academy drafting up the new, revised, approved, politically correct SERE program. That sounds like an impossible task given the recent history, but Ken is confident they will be able to save the program this year. Iam sure all of us are hoping for the reinstatement of what was one of the more valuable experiences of our time at the Academy—best of luck, Ken, on adifficult project.

Dan and Randy apres golf.

TRANSCOM at Scott where he’s running into Mike BILLINGS (Sandy), John CHRIST (Louise), John HUNT and Craig ADAMS. Randy notes that Craig is on his way to Ramstein. Let Randy’s experience serve as a warning to all those who plan on playing the 16th at Eisenhower in September—wear Kevlar.

SCHOOL NEWS: Bernie PETERS (Jeanne), John REED (Vonice) and Al CARNEY (Robin) sent along agroup shot of themselves at NWC. These guys look far too relaxed to be War College students but perhaps intramurals were canceled on the day of this photo. Keep me posted guys, as to where you are headed after this.

Pat MCVAY (Cyndee) left Naval War College and has headed off to Riyadh to take over the base group commander’s position. Arriving just after the truck bombing, Pat has made CNN news at least once and reports that he is busier than yours truly with security and international

Scott HARROD (Nita) dropped me aquick line from San Antonio where he is working at AETC in operations. Scott saw Jim MASKOWITZ (Rita) when Jim was passing through. Jim is flying ’141s for the Guard and international routes for American out of Newark. Scott reports that Skip DAY (Tracy) is flying DEW for Delta and that Tim HOPPER (MaryAnne) is golfing at the War College and is heading for the Pentagon following his last 18. Thanks for the info, Scott. Bobby WILKES (Cathy) is now anew dad. Cathy had the good sense to give birth just before the ORl inspection team arrived at the beginning of Oc¬ tober.

Jim STAVA (Holly) is out in Utah flying a727 for Delta. Jim also represents the 8,5(X) pilots of Delta as amember of the master executive

council of the Air Line Pilots Association. In his spare time he works as an ALO for the zoo, along with Mark MEAKINS (Gayle). Many thanks for the update, Jim, get some skiing for all of us out there this winter.

Bill BRANDT (Susan) does the copilot thing for Fed Ex flying DC-lOs and doing the Reserve shuffle at Seymour-Johnson. Bill lives outside Dallas, has gotten active in politics, and is writing aweekly newspaper column for his local journal.

Mark CASTELLANI (Susan) dropped me aline from Offutt where he’s flying RC-135S in my old outfit. Barnie BALLINGER (Gay) is the squadron commander of Mark’s outfit at Offutt. Mark also reports run¬ ning into Doug MARLOWE (Barbara) who is flying for the Guard out of Tucson in F-16s; Mark GILZEAN (Barbara) who is with the 82nd Recon Squadron in Kadena; Dan MCNEIL (Donna) who was with the Guard in Colorado out of Buckley; and Joe KAISER, who is with 3rd Air Force at Mildenhall. Mark notes that he is retiring at 20 and hopes to see the non¬ military fliers out in the civilian world. Thanks for the heads-up, Mark.

Don MOORE (CINDY) and their three kids are now at Luke where Don is the ops officer for an F-16 unit. Don apparently sees half of the class going through Luke at any given time. Ihave only space to mention afew that haven’t come up elsewhere. Duff MUIR (Mary) is the ops of¬ ficer of the T-38 squadron at Randolph; Mike SASSE (Hillari) is flying for Fed Ex in Tennessee (as an aside, Isuspect Mike’s New York accent plays real well in the rural South); and Jeff DOERR is working as a stockbroker in South Lake City.

Roger PAULSON (Tomiko) has moved his operations base from Atlanta to Cincinnati as acaptain for MD-88s for Delta. Roger saw Steve BACK who pushes jets for Delta out of Atlanta and, in the words of Roger, “the guy looks like he did when he was 19, and he’s still anice guy.

Ican think of no better words to end the column than those. All the best in 1997. Be seeing you.

Greg “Kais” Kaiser

7420B Salem Drive

Columbus AFB, MS 39701

Home: (601) 434-0078 is great!

Work: (601) 434-2786 or DSN 742-2786

E-mail: kaisatcbm@aol.com

Percent members: 35

IHATE COMPUTERS! For those of you great computer hackers of the class, don’t give up on the e-mail address above. My computer crashed right after Isigned on with AOL, and apparently AOL didn’t take the fi rst time. Rick EASER called to let me know Iwasn’t “on-line right after the holidays, but now hopefully I’m back in the cyber world.

AWIFE’S RETORT...“Dear Kais, Oh greatly revered and hallowed fightef pilot (NOT!). Iwanted to respond to the last article in Checkpointi'. Iwould also like to publicly put out the call for spouses of addleminded ’78 grads to UNITE against the tyrannical injustice of acertain class scribe. I’d also like to set the record straight on the “senility” of my K-Bob. First of all, Iwill admit that the man sends me the same cards for Mother’s Day, my birthday, and Valentines Day, but it just means that he is sincere in his sentiments. Next, I’ll confess he forgets where he hides the Easter eggs—but he does remember our children’s names (most of the time). Finally, Iknow Ihave to remind him to put his teeth in each morn¬ ing, but I’d never had to remind him to take his fiber therapy as charged in your last article. He drinks his Metamucil on his own volition. Ihope this sets the record straight, oh physiologically-challenged one. Please cease the underhanded tactics against your mentor. Ihave to adjust his pacemaker each time he reads one of your articles. Thank you for con¬ sidering my requests in your usual and thoughtful manner, #@$%&! Fondly, Ellie.

MY REPLY... IHAVE NO FURTHER QUESTIONS FOR THIS WITNESS, YOUR HONOR, and off the record, would it be possible for anyone in the Holloman area to stop by and see if the Kays are OK? There is alot of sunshine in that part of the country and sunstroke is not uncom¬ mon...or base housing there is quite old. Could be lead poisoning from the pipes or asbestos poisoning from the insulation...or, maybe K-Bob’s dementia is contagious! Poor Miss Ellie. It’s certainly not ahealthy en¬ vironment she’s in out there; however, all spouses of addle-minded ’78 grads are more than welcome to UNITE against me and try to undo the truth Ispeak and write!

JUST MISSED GETTING IN THE LAST ARTICLE...a very infor¬ mative letter from Mark RICHARDSON. He, Cindy, and their two boys left Reese last summer after astint as the 52 FTS/CC flying the T-1 Jayhawk. Now, he’s enduring “one of the best-kept secrets in all of Air Force PME,” as aNational Defense Fellow at Ohio State University in Columbus, OH. He mentioned something about enjoying quality NCAA

football again at OSU. Igot the distinct feeling that Mark, like many of us, has never gotten over the four years of NCAA football we were exposed to. However, Istill remember the mighty Falcons ALMOST beating Joe Montana and the Fighting Irish.

MARK’S INTEL...Bob and Alice HERRIS also left Reese last summer for ICAF. Bob was the 54 FTS/CC flying T-38s. Bob, what other ’78ers are at ICAF with you (picture would be nice)? Vinny and Gail GALLAGHER are still at Reese. Vinny was Bob Herns’ opso and then took the squadron when Bob left. Now, he has the dubious honor of “turning off the lights and locking the doors” as we close yet another pilot training base. (I did hear through the grapevine that Vinny was headed to USAFA this summer to be agroup AOC.) T.J. BRONDER (Nan) is an opso of the 557th at USAFA flying the T-3 Firefly. By the time people read this, “Lucky” Leo KOWATCH (Allison) will be at Laughlin AFB where he will continue flying the T-38 after helping to close Reese. And in adifferent part of the country, Dave and Julie MINTZ are at Tyndall where Dave is the opso of the 1st Fighter Squadron flying the mighty Eagle. Dave “Boosh” and Jan BUSHEME are in the Dallas area where Dave fl ies for Delta and Jan works .for America. John “Puff” and Diana PUFFENBARGER are assigned to Space Command in Colorado Springs. However, John is commanding aunit at Clear AFS in Alaska while Diana holds down the home in Colorado. Apparently, we still have BMEWS (doolie knowledge test!) sites up there. Puff, what are you doing way up there? Puff, remember good ole’ Columbus and 79-06 “Only the Good Die Young?” And finally from Mark, Donny and Ana ALSTON who are also at HQ SPACECOM where Donny is the EXEC/SPEECHWRITER for the CINC/DCINC. That sounds like about as much fun as agrenade going off in abarrel of oatmeal! But, he likes it, and word is, he’s good at it! Mark’s only request from the Intel he’s relayed to me...if anything is in error, write the KAIS to correct any errors or update any of the above. Thanks, Mark!

LONG-LOST KIRCH...Received another letter just before Christmas with the following intro: “Hi Kais, I’ve endured your complaints of no mail for several issues now—guess Ihave to write before you really get pissed off.” Eric (aka Rick or Kirch) KIRCHNER was one of my room¬ mates in the “Double Duece” back in the days when USAFA had about as much of achance of going to abowl game as Jane Fonda being invited to aRiver Rats Convention. Rick, Gail, and three boys and ayoung lady are in the Cincinnati area. Rick fl ies 737s for Delta and Gail substitute teaches elementary school. Even though Rick’s out of the active Air Force, he’s still got his “fingers in the pie” as aliaison officer for USAFA and Air Force ROTC in Northern Kentucky. Good on ya, Kirch. Rick related the following bytes of data: J.R. INGLIS (another of my many roommates) was at Kirtland AFB, and is one of the first, if not the first Air Force officer to get back on active flying status after open heart surgery. I’m not sure if J.R. and Melinda are still at Kirtland or not; however, let me know where you’re at J.R. ’cause now I’m feelin’ kind of guilty. I’m wondering if all that furniture 1piled on top of you in our room may have been acontributing factor to your heart...but really good news in hearing everything worked out AND you made it back on flying status! Mark and Sherry APFEL are in the Dallas-Ft Worth area where Mark fl ies for Delta. Bob and Diane BERGER are back at USAFA after Bob got his doctorate of philosophy from Oxford. Now, he’s waiting to be, or already is, apermanent professor in the Behavioral Sciences Department? Ronnie and Francie TAIT are at Laughlin AFB where Ron¬ nie is aT-38 check pilot. Ronnie called the other day and said there are four other ’78ers there; John and Michelle ALBERT, Steve UST, Curt QUIMBY, and one other that Ronnie couldn’t remember during our short phone call. Terry and Sandra KELLY also live in the Cincinnati area and fly for Delta. Deon and Arlene GIEG live somewhere near New Orleans, flies for Delta, and is the New Orleans F-15 ANG squadron com¬ mander...what alife! Mike and Dawn MCDONALD are still in Great Falls, MT where Mikey is still flying the F-16...I believe full-time. And fi nally, Mike “Digger” and Rita PHELPS are still in the DFW area where Digger flies and instructs for American, and together they ponder whether four boys are really enough to put through college and what the odds would be of the fifth child being agirl? Isee Digger once aquarter or so here at Columbus where he does his Reserve thing in this huge CE squadron at CAFB. Same thing, if any of Rick’s intel needs correcting or updating, give me acall or drop me aline.

WHO’S AT COLUMBUS...David “Tanker” and Tammy SNYDER arrived here last summer. Tanker got back from T-1 PIT in the fall and is our “DOG” (Dep OPs Gp). Mark and Terry HEFFERLY are coming up on two years here, and Mark’s been the commander of the T-37 squadron for about ayear. Mike “Moose” and Stephanie EVERS have been here, like me, three plus years, with no assignment in sight. AETC is full of fi eld-grade of fi cer.

Neil and Brigid KRAUSE have been here acouple of years and Neil is our chief of Quality Assurance. And our newest ’78 grad to arrive at Col-

umbus is Bert and Beth CONROY. He’s likin’ the life here after atour as an OSS commander in Korea. This flyin’ two and three times aday with SUPT students is not abad way to make alivin’. Take care, and ya’ll call, write, or e-mail me...hear?

Si#

Can you beat this?

CLASS INQUIRY...Does anyone out there still have their original cadet car? Rick KIRCHNER thinks he may have the class record. He sold his ’77 Celica last year for awhopping $100 with nearly 200k miles on the beast. He enclosed apicture with his letter but threatened me with bodily harm if Iprinted it. Oh, what the hell, Kirch, come on down and give me your best shot. Iwas meaner back when we were cadets, and I’m probably meaner now.

Mike Donatelli

1149 S. Stone Ave. La Grange, IL 60525 (708) 352-0360

Percent members: 34

Happy New Year Class of ’79...We’re in the midst of agood ole fashioned Chicago winter...trying to stay warm and wondering haw many da Bulls will lose this year. My apologies up front...this article has taken a back seat this year due to some trials and tribulations of building our new house around our old house...Some communications of interest...Bob EDMONDS writes from the White House for some help...He’d like relief from his scribe duties...if interested call me. Even though I’ve been trying to jink out of my duties for some time...there’s no relief in sight so...I’ll be calling soliciting help/inputs for class scribe.

Forties Crowd...suckers... Istill have aways to go...but most of you are there or soon to be over the hill like Jim REGAN (Tanya)...Jim got religion on his 40th and Tanya transferred to God’s country, the land of the sacred hardwood warriors—Chicago (we don’t have afootball team anymore). Jim flies for American and is instilling leadership techniques in his sons by defying Mr. Crandall and spearing the STFD (Start The Final Descent) committee in effort to secure fair working compensation and conditions. Other new entrants to the ’40’s club are John “Nips” NICHOLS (Denise) and Jim “Flick” FLICKINGER...Nips is the cor¬ nerstone of the WIANG working round the clock in support of the total force while Flick is flying round the clock in support of UAL.

The CCs...Yes Iam busy, busy, busy...sometimes I’m able to break the monotony of my Delta duties (still flying the North Atlantic to ports of call including Athens, Berlin, Bombay, Copenhagen, Frankfurt, Milan, Moscow, Munich, Paris, and Rome) by actually deploying with the WIANG. Highlights of the year were at Nellis AFB...Jim “Lips” CALLAHAN is the F-16 USAFFWS/CC. Mike “Rolls” ROLLER is the F-117 Blacksheep 8FS/CC (Holloman AFB, Rolls was in Vegas for Red Flag), and Dale “Guano” BURTON is Mr Adversary Tactics 414 CTS ops officer. Other CCs of note (via recommendations to interview with the WIANG for future employment)...Burt FIELD and Des LONG, rival squadron CCs at Hill AFB and Steve “Maggot” MUEHLER CC at Can¬ non AFB. All are on the pointing end flying F-16s and soon will be back in academia attending senior service school.

The senior service school “good deal?” award goes to Guy WALSH. Guy departs his beloved 358FS/CC post (A-10 driver at DMAFB) for USAFA for one year to pursue fame and fortune via selection to Dept of Defense Research Recipient? Guy explains that it is aone-year project that entails research writing from the Zoo on Pete HAYES’ ability as the

senior poli-sci instructor. Yes this counts for Air War College! Not aCC but the AFA...Mike “Pep” PEPLINSKI is the Air Force advisor to Selfridge, MI...Pep is in the advisor role on the F-16 while Tom TAKAI is the slave driving ops officer...both are honing the MIANG war-fighting skills for their upcoming inspection.

What about the golf tourney? Scott JENSEN is fl at on his back recovering from back surgery. Jens retired from the WIANG last year and continues lifelong pursuits of flying, golfing ,and fatherhood. Jens flies the wide-body Airbus for FEDEX (along with Capt Larry HOFF¬ MAN and MD-11 Training Dept guru Brad HARDEN). His anual golf outing is in jeopardy this year after askirmish with aladder and some Christmas lights reacquainted him with his ole nemesis L-4 disk. Hopeful¬ ly the backswing will be flexible enough for the big golf outing versus Tim FYDA and Russ EARNED. I’m planning my strategy this year because I may be able to hold my own against agimpy back. Others that want to chase the white ball around with me (if we can ever find the time) are Dan BOYLEN (Delta pilot and of EXCEL fame), Fred LANKFORD (DAL and now USAF ALO of the Year in Connecticut), and Mike HAYES (DAL flying Trans-Atlantic with yours truly—check the NOTAMS).

Again this is ashorty but Kro the editor of Checkpoints has graciously extended his deadline to accommodate my input. Looking for Scribes! The next update is from JR DALLAS, 11048 Candlelight Lane, Dallas, TX 74229. Make their job easy, keep in touch...Mike Donatelli.

Don Myers

USN-CF Box 5000

Ogdensburg, NY 13669-5000

Home: (902) 765-6087

Work: (902) 765-1494, ext 1413

DSN: 568-1413/Fax (902) 765-1416 or 568-1416

E-mail: dmyers@glinx.com

Percent members: 42

MEA CULPA! (That’s about the only Latin Iknow.) Two things: First, Iforgot about the time delay last issue and didn’t end with my typical uplifting wish for agreat holiday season—and arequest to send me one of those impersonal letters you send to your friends at that festive time of year. The other thing was Ifound aletter from Dave “Flip” FILIPPI in my folder from back in the summer (oops!). It still had good news in it: After battling Hodgkin’s disease to apparent victory, he is now single again and says he’ll stick to cats (“not dating them, owning them!”) for awhile. After senior service school, he’s at WPAFB as chief of Contracting for the B-1. Flip stayed with Chuck (Geri) WOLFE white house-hunting in Dayton. Besides watching Chuck perform magic in the kitchen, the highlight was when he was relaxing in the living room to what he thought was aclassical piano CD coming from downstairs—turns out it was Chuck’s 10-year-old son Matthew tickling the ivories. Flip is ex¬ cited about being back near his heavily-into-sports daughter who, acou¬ ple of years back asked, “Dad, will you teach me how to throw aball like aboy?” Flip writes he didn’t have the heart to tell her he wasn’t sure he knew how.

Chef Wolfe labors over stove in classic attire. NEWS. I’m going to make this awhirlwind, so stick with me: Allen BAKER is keeping his mouth shut while on probation with UAL, but was asked to instruct in the 777 (a first for someone so new, he tells us). Jerry DEVILLE will retire with 20 years in August from Randolph after

upgrading some of their computer systems. He says Nancy (MARIANO) KUDLA is doing well in San Antonio with her own company, Research Dynamics. Marge (GLAZIER) SCHELL is busy raising the kids as Jay’s at Lackland.

Tom EHRHARD writes from D.C. (Johns School of Advanced Int’l Studies): Tom NEAL’s at the Baltimore campus, Steve BATTS is work¬ ing POW/MIA issues, Brian ROBINSON is at SAF/AQ, Dave LARIVEE “is the guy who decides how many Lt Cols are pinned on each month,” Bill ANDREWS has acrew of “CD ROM writers to contain the mammoth Power Point brie fi ngs that Bill produces” at ACC, Joe ANGELLO is abigwig civilian government type, and Bill ELIASON “is now the pit bull for the AF” as he works to get the AF our share of the money pie.

Bill E. then penned: Dean EISBERG “was called ‘Iceman’ long before ‘Topgun’ was afantasy in the screenwriter’s mind. Iguess it still is afan¬ tasy.” Bill’s “a prisoner of the Pentagon” and saw George CUNNING¬ HAM in from Hurlburt, Rudy BLAZICKO, Kelly HUMPHREY, Rich MCFARLAND; Sue MASHIKO pinned to 0-5 by Dr. Widnall, and Phyllis LOVING. Phyllis is working for “a formerly secret organization. Yea the one that built a$300M building out by Dulles.” Sue gets to write speeches for the SECAF. Paul and Ricki (SMITH) SELVA moved again: Paul traded his KC-10 squadron to be an analyst at OSD; Ricki’s teaching quilting. They bought ahouse (roots?) and they’ve promised each other time to ski the river this year.

Chris (Lyn) SEAVER writes from Corpus Christi—seems the Navy is jointly training AF pilots/navs and he’s there to make sure it’s done right. He’s also working with the T-45 Goshawk program while getting to fly the famed T-34C Turbomentor. Lyn gets to substitute teach almost every day, now that the three boys are soccer age. Got avery formal press release about John CHRISTOPHER’S new law firm. Still in Boston, he’ll be working in “intellectual property law.” (I just report it.)

■ »*

Would you buy aused car from this man? (John Christopher) Iindented here again because Ithought it was time for abreak—and I needed acup of something warm. As Iwas shivering alittle (we heat by wood), Peggy (DENNIS) CARNAHAN reported it was in the 80s in San Antonio. She found Dave BRITTON at Elmendorf at the ALCOM J-5 with Jim HANLEY; Craig SEEBER’s survival squadron CC at Fairchild; Larry (Cindie) DEPATIS is aMoody ADO at the OSS (F-16s). Phil (Lina) RUHLMAN, who’s back in the F-16 at Luke, says he was flown somewhere by Chris (Peggy WALKER) CUELLAR in aSouthwest 737. Seems Chris got on the intercom and told everyone about the “special guest” aboard—and the flight attendants continued the embarrassment by doting on him with extra peanuts and pillows. Dave FRANCIS graces us from Pope AFB: Mike (Jennifer) SAMPLE (our Navy rep) “recently escaped from STRATCOM and is now at NROTC in JAX, FL.” [Tell me. Sir, what was it like in NROTC/OCS/USNA for you? Oh...you went to the Air Force Academy?] Vinnie (Sherrie) DIFRONZO made the jump from the Pentagon to the F-15 RTU. Marcel (Tina) KERDAVID went to Helsinki (yep!) for his MD-11 transition with FEDEX and is still with the MAANG flying A-lOs. Kelly LEGGETTE moved to Atlanta with the Big D; Lou (Lori) BORRELLI is going to the 757 (United) in Miami.

From “The Big Sandbox” comes greetings from Bill PETERSON, in Riyadh for a165-day vacation with the Force Protection staff. He’s nor¬ mally in the Nevada desert training SPs in base defense near Nellis. Mak¬ ing life “quite hectic again!” (but wonderful. I’m sure), Steve (Juliet) GREEN, still at USAFA Mgt Dept, salutes us with the clan picture, com¬ plete with the latest August addition.

Green clan: Tori, Steve, Juliet and Noah.

JOB FAIR. Dave JONES says his wing (GAANG at Warner Robins) needs afew doctors/flight surgeons. Since he’s the wing exec and IG, he can get you going in the right direction. Oh, the wing went from F-15s to B-ls. Tom JORDON took aleave of absence from AA to be sqdn ops of¬ ficer and Jerry CORBETT is coming off an eight-year break in service to be tbe wing PA “after alittle good-natured prodding from some mutual friends.” Ted LAUER and Paul SMITH are assistant chief pilots at the Bid Dnow, “so our class has officially broken into management.

GUILT TRIP. I’ve asked the AFA Society of Washington, DC to keep me on their mailing list free of charge so Ican periodically plug the doings of the organization. It’s not just agreat networking system for the Beltway area, but our grads are doing good things in the community. Let Jim East, ’67, Oeast@gdss,com) know if you want more info—’80 is well represented. Since we aren’t normally allowed to list abunch of e-mail ad¬ dresses here, my offer to give any of you those that Ihave for our classmates still stands; just give me some prose worth printing in return.

REACH OUT VII. Brian TART is not lost—he’s just in the clouds (at Delta). Only one found from last list, maybe we can do better. Here’s this quarter’s list of those unheard from for aLONG while—let me know if you know: James R. SKOTNICKI, Robert E. SINGLETON, John C. SINCERE, Pamela J. SIMONITSCH, Jerry I. SIEGAL, Bernard L. SHALZ.

For those of you in colder places, spring is just around the corner. For those of you away from home, it can’t last forever. For those of you alone—that’s what we’re here for! Take care and God bless. Don.

Scott Dering 42071 E. Muledeer Drive U.S. Air Force Academy, CO 80840 (719) 472-1604

E-mail: deringrs.dfps@usafa.af.mil

Percent members: 37

now on. in our

Greetings. You may notice that Inow have an e-mail address. Natural¬ ly, Iexpect an avalanche of information over the net from you folks from Let’s get straight to the news. My lead story concerns the women class who went to the “Women in Motion” celebration of 20 years of women at the Academy last fall. These are some very hearty souls in¬

deed because only .one-third of the women in our class made it to gradua¬ tion—the highest attrition rate, by far, of female cadets in Academy history. Carolyn MADDEN was good enough to give me pictures.

In the first photo we have (kneeling from left) Kathy DURST, Sandra Yope, Janice (GUNNOE) HUGHES, Carolyn MADDEN, Sue (WAECHTER) JANKE, (and standing from left) Josie BALLATO, Kel¬ ly TIMMONS, Grace (BATTAGLIA) BLEVINS-HOLMAN, Jan (WILEY) DOWNS, Maura (BURKE) WINGATE, Missy (MRAZ) ROB¬ BINS, and Dee (HORNBOSTEL) JAGSTADT. The second picture shows (kneeling from left) Linda MCCULLERS, Josie, Grace, Silvi (KIISK) STEIGERWALD, (and standing from left) Sue, Jan, Nancy BRUNKOW, Carolyn, Janice, and Amy MARKERT. In the third photo are Julie KAY, Jan, and Dee.

Ihave already received some e-mail from classmates who were netsavvy enough to track down my e-mail address as soon as Igot it. Here is abrief compilation of these inputs. Igot third-hand information that Rex KIZIAH works “nuclear issues” for the Secretary of Defense. He’s been doing that long enough that he is now looking to move on, but he’s hav¬ ing atough time finding jobs in his career field—genius physicist. Fred WEISHOFF has astaff job at the Pentagon, John OLAVARRIA went from the Pentagon to the staff at Langley, and Jay SANTEE is moving from the Pentagon to some secret job in Turkey. Jay had worked along side Xavier STREETER, Mugs MCGOVERN, and Scott COALE in the Global Power Directorate for Acquisition. Tom MASIELLO also left the Pentagon recently for his second tour at Eglin, this time as the ops officer for the F-16 test squadron. By the time you read this, Tom will have mar¬ ried another Lt Col-selectee. (My most vivid memory of Tom was pulling an all-nighter in the EE lab designing aprinted circuit board. We prob¬ ably would have gotten some sleep if Bob JONES hadn’t been there “helping” us.)

Gary CROWDER is teaching our sister services about airpower at me National War College after an assignment at the Pentagon, John SEVERANCE works at the National Reconnaissance Office, lawyer Bud RAFFERTY is at Legislative Liaison, and newlywed Frank GALLEGOS is also at the Pentagon. Phil LANDWEER lives in Washington state and is amajor in the Reserves when he’s not working for acompany called ASI which supports the Air Force Studies and Analysis Agency.

Classmates on the Air Mobility staff at Scott AFB include Tom AR¬ TIS, Frank CURRAN, Rob REITER, Lowell STOCKMAN, and Linda MCCULLERS. I’m told that Linda spends most of her off-duty time at the community theater acting, directing, and working backstage. Steve BRUNHAVER is also at Scott, but he’s on the CINC’s Action Group in U.S. Transportation Command.

Chris CAMPBELL is getting his Ph.D. in English at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville before returning to teach at the Academy in 1999. Chris spent his previous assignment with the Marine Expeditionary Force at Camp Pendleton which he describes as some of the best duty he’s ever had. He reports that former roommates Steve BARRINGTON and Mike BLAND are reunited on remote assignments in Korea.

Bruce BROWN lives in Johnstown, PA and flies for United out of Chicago when he’s not flying Guard KC-135s out of Niagara Falls. His wife, Kathleen, is aformer flight surgeon who now has acivilian practice. Bruce reports that his initial pilot supervisor at United was Mike GRABOWSKI.

Matt ALTHOUSE is the operations of fi cer for the GPS satellite squadron at Falcon AFB. Matt and Margaret have four children ranging in age from anine-year-old to anewborn. Matt reports that civil engineer Will CASSIDY is at the Pentagon and Rob CONLEY works on GPS stuff for Overlook Inc. in Colorado Springs.

Richard “known to you only as Beef” HADDAD reeently entered politics in abig way by running for the Florida state senate in the last elec¬ tion, taking aleave of absence from TWA during the last month of the campaign. Alas, he lost, but he took 43 percent of the vote—an im¬ pressive result when you consider that (1) his opponent spent $250,000 of his own money campaigning for ajob that pays one-tenth of that, (2) Beef is a(fiscally conservative) Democrat fighting aRepublican tide in the South, and (3) it was Beef’s first campaign. His mentor in Florida is Daryl JONES (’77), who is the state senate minority leader. In his spare time. Beef flies C-130s in the Reserves, his unit having recently transitioned from gunships to special operations models.

Beef offered the following updates on classmates: Dave SCHOLL and Dan LEY live in Florida and fly for Delta out of Atlanta. Sean BISHOP flies for Delta out of Atlanta while his wife, Carlee (’82), gets her astro Ph.D. at Auburn. Ned RUDD is out of the Air Force and is an F-15 simulator instructor in Saudi Arabia. Mike GABRESKI is back flying gunships at Hurlburt. Alex TRUE flies for American out of Miami. Ray PUMA is aReservist in Beef’s MC-130 squadron when he’s not acor¬ porate pilot in Birmingham. Jim KILTY fl ies for Ameriean out of Chicago. New father Mike POTKULSKI flies for Delta out of Dallas. And Bart BLESSING flies for TWA when he’s not flying C-130s for the Kentucky Guard. That’s all for now.

Jim Ratti

8324 Heathrow Downs

Montgomery, AL 36117-5121

Home: (334) 213-5958

rattijm@mindspring.com

http: //WWW .mindspring .com/~rattijm/usafa82/

Percent members: 36

Hello! Well, it’s Christmas again, and I’m at the in-laws writing this column on my Christmas toy, anew Gateway 2000 laptop. When I’m done. I’ll fax it to the AOG and upload it to the web page. Sure beats the heck out of the first time Ihad to work on the column away from home some 14 years ago. Ihad to bribe my little sister, who was in secretarial school at the time, to type the column for me so Icould mail it in. Wow. As an aging EE major, Ilove all this bit &byte stuff. And so do most of you, judging from the volume of e-mail that I’ve been getting. So without further ado, here’s what I’ve got.

Donna (GLANCEY) SCHUTZIUS dropped an electron-gram from USAFA where she’s an academic instructor. She and Marv (husband of two years) are doing well there, and she enjoys the autonomy of being a course director. Donna was on the committee that put together the Women in Motion get-together last fall (see the Fall ’96 column for details).

Mark “Stitch” MILLER burned some AOL time with aquick update. He managed to wrangle 3,000 hours in the F-16, then survived atour at the National Security Agency (NSA—No Such Agency) before taking on his present challenge as aseminar leader here at ACSC. He and his family (wife Eve, and three kids, Amanda, Cody and Chelsea) are enjoying life in the South, and hoping for another F-16 tour after school. Speaking of ACSC folks, Marty WOJTYSIAK had to use AOL to remind me that he too was at school this year. Imissed putting him on the list Summer ’% column.

Marc DARLING was surfing and found the web page. He sent ashort note to say that he and Brian FINN are enjoying their PACAF tour (at Hickam, Iassume). A1 SHERMAN also surfed by, but didn’t stop to chat.

Kevin POWELL sent aDelta (airlines, that is) report to say that he and Martin HARRIS, Matt HANIFEN, Jim CASEY, and Roger CRAWFORD all love to fly, and it shows. He didn’t tell me where any of

them are domiciled though.

Dean MILLS sent ahello from Cannon, where he had just relinquished command of an ACC Training Support Squadron Detachment so that he and his family could PCS to Australia to attend the RAAF Staff College (Aussie ACSC) through Dec ’97. Deano says that Eric BEST is the chief of Stan/Eval at Cannon, having just completed Army CGSC at Leaven¬ worth. Dean also saw John “Joz” JOZWICKI, who’s aT-37 IP at Vance. And, he says that Lori (FULTON) NOWACK (husband Mark, along with three kids) is in England gettin aPh.D., and that Tom KARMONDY is working for MCI in C-Springs. Finally, Kevin CRENWELGE left Dyess and the C-130 to work on the ACC staff at Langley.

George JAMES found the website and sent his first (I think...) update in 14 years. He left active duty in ’92 and is currently asenior financial analyst with Allegheny-Teledyne in L.A. He’s also aReservist, stationed at March AFB. He and his wife, Lola, have aone-year-old daughter. Savannah.

Mike RYAN held asmall Thunderbirds (CS-27) reunion at his home in the D.C. area where he’s aNational Defense Fellow at the Library of Congress. He sent an electronic picture of the bunch of them, but you’ll have to surf the web to see it since Idon’t have apaper copy to send to the AOG for publication here. Attendees included Tony LAZARSKI (cur¬ rently in Naples, with an F-15 to Seymour as afollow-on), Steve WERNER (an EWO working at NSA), and Bob RANCK (Ops Ofor the 89th Ops Support Sq at Andrews). Lee ANDERSON (SAF/IAW at the Pentagon) was invited but had to decline. Mike’s wife, Gloria (MON¬ TOYA), has completed asecond master’s and taught 5th grade before deciding to start asmall wholesale business and stay at home full time. Mike’s speciality is helping with research projects, so give him aholler if you need help. His address is on the Website.

Pete LIVINGSTON checked in from Charleston. He spent about 3,000 hours in the C-130 and survived acommand post tour in Panama before becoming aC-17 Ops Test &Eval pilot. Pete sends word that Joe MOTOWSKI is now at Altus AFB as aC-17 instructor, and that JB SMITH is the resident test pilot at the 33d Flight Test Squadron at McGuire AFB.

Bob SNEATH tells us that he’s putting his ACSC education to good use at NORAD, and enjoying life in the Springs again. He also wanted to fill everyone in on Steve HIRST’s (’81) condition after his tragic car acci¬ dent in Alaska in Jan ’96. Steve (married to Sue ROTH ’83) has made a partial recovery, but is still in awheelchair. Former B-Ball teammates have set up afund to help pay for home rehab equipment, and they’ve ar¬ ranged a“Steve Hirst Night” at one of the home games in February. Contact Bob at bsneath@msn.com for more details.

Doc KIMMINAU, currently aseminar leader at ACSC, made the cut for SAAS (School of Advanced Airpower Studies) and will be staying in Montgomery to read books for another year. You can read his family’s Christmas letter on the website.

Speaking of school, Tim COLLINS will give up his F-16 squadron at Shaw to attend National War College this summer. A1 GOARD proudly e-mailed an announcement of the birth of his son Niall Anthony. A1 and his family are stationed in Germany, but he didn’t say what his job is. Jim BROWN sent achange of e-mail address and said that he and Phil MAHON are having aball on the CENTAF staff at Shaw. Steve PEAR¬ SON dropped aquick note to say he’s alive/well at Eglin and will write more later.

Joe “Harry” REHM came out of the woodwork with acareer update. To recap, he was aT-37 FAIP until ’86, then went to fly A-lOs at Bentwaters and Pope. Army CGSC followed atour as aBG’s exec (still at Pope), then he went to ajoint job at Yongsan. Now he’s back in the A-10, this time at Davis-Monthan. Joe tells us that Mike HEPLER is afellow Hawg driver at DM, and that Ted BALE flies choppers with the Reserve unit there and runs awoodworking business downtown.

Bob WELLER, who works for Hughes Training near Dallas, sent his Christmas letter (see the Website), and anote that he ran into Jill (RIDER) SHAW at amall in Arlington, TX awhile back. Jill (the only person in the Air Force short enough to land behind Bob in aformation) easily recognized the back of Bob’s head in the teeming crowd. Jill is assigned at AAFES headquarters, and must have been out shopping the competition at the time.

Kirk HUNIGAN e-mailed from the Naval War College where he and Harry LEACH are surviving the ISS reading load. He says that the AF hosted aholiday party at the Rosecliff Mansion, the same one that Ar¬ nold Schwarzenegger made famous in “True Lies.” Kirk says it was the best Christmas party in the DoD. GAO report to follow...

Mike “Marathon Man” SINISI sent me anews clip and picture (elec¬ tronic only—see the Website) documenting his 63rd place finish (of 15,300 finishers) in the Marine Corps Marathon in D.C. in October. Mike’s been running competitively for 23 years, but this was his first

marathon. Anyone would be proud of his 2:45:59 time, especially remarkable for afirst effort. I’m just glad he showed the Marines that the USAF has a“few good men” too!

Powell WILSON, another long-lost soul, sent aquick note after brows¬ ing the Website. He’s stationed at Hanscom, but he didn’t tell me what he’s doing there. Bryan BRANBY e-mailed me his Christmas letter (available on the Website, along with afew others). He, Laura and the kids are fine, living near Pittsburgh in Zelienople, PA. Bryan’s aReser¬ vist and just pinned on major, having survived numerous Bosnia tours.

And this just in! Cynthia MACK is going to ride in a300-mile bike ride to raise money for AIDS treatment. The ride will be from 19-22 June, and will go from North Carolina to D.C. Cynthia must secure $1,700 in pledges by 30 May, and she’s asking the class to help sponsor her. If you’d like to contribute, contact her at 14346 Compton Dr., Centreville, VA 20121. You can call her at (702) 222-0834. And of course, there’s more detail on the Website!

Ellen and Iare fine, but we did have the unpleasant task of driving to Dayton last October to attend the funeral of Steve VOGT’s father. Steve’s dad died suddenly of aheart attack. Although the circumstances were less than happy, it was good to see Steve, his wife, Gina, and their passle of kids again.

And, I’m in cyber-paradise with two new computers to play with. I’ve got a200 MHz Pentium Pro running Windows NT at home, and aPen¬ tium 120 laptop for the road. So, I’m never far away from the ’82 Web¬ site. And neither should you be! Keep the cyber updates coming. Surf Safe, RATMAN.

Dave Wright

4204A W. Muledeer Drive

USAFA, CO 80840-1137

Home: (719) 472-1244

Work: (719) 333-4608

Percent members: 37

■ &..

Greetings to everyone from sunny and yes, still windy USAFA. It amazes me as much as anyone else that Iam here at the Mecca for all graduates. Ifound it ironic that Iworked so hard to leave/graduate from this place and then worked almost as hard to return? It appeared that I was going to have to do the dreaded nonflying staff tour to the Pentagon or Langley when Iasked my boss to give me alittle time to come up with another option, the rest is history! In the eight months that Ihave been here Ihave had infinitely more visitors than in the eight years Iwas at Tinker AFB in Oklahoma City. Gee, Iwonder why? Ray BLUST was one of those visitors and he threatened to tell stories, something to do with “metal on flesh” and the “cool six” (all lies obviously) to my cadets unless Iaccomplished this article. Isuppose that Ray BLUST has some dirt on Pete MCCAFFREY also because he to has volunteered to assist me in writing this article. Well here goes.

The first photo and information are courtesy of Ken TINGMAN and Jim and Cindy (FUJIMOTO) NORMAN. Thanks to their help Ihave been able to piece together what Ibelieve to be an accurate update on last summer’s ACSC assignments for our fellow ’83ers. From left are Jim NORMAN-Buckley ANGB, CO;

“Hurry up, Ithink Ileft my laptop onl”

Sue (NEWHOUSE) ROSS-Scott AFB, IL; Todd BOESDORFER-349th Air Refueling Sq, McConnell AFB, KS; Lani SMITH-L.A. AFS,SMC/CWT; Chris BOEDICKERUSTRANSCOM/J-6, Scott AFB, IL; Carol Ann (TARR) JONESNational Airborne Operations Center NAOC, Offutt AFB, NE; Mark

POHLMEIER-USAFE, Ramstien AB, GE; Terry FEATHERSTON-On Site Inspection Agency OSIA, Rhien-Main AB, GE; Mark PRICE; Carl BANNER-ACSC instructor; Steve KEMPF-Pentagon, Long Range Avia¬ tion Planner, Forces Division, J-8; Joel HECK-Korea; Paul BERGACSC instructor; Pat PENCE; Chris BOGDAN-program manager. Special Projects Division, ESC, Hanscom AFB, MA; Cindy (FUJIMOTO) NORMAN-Buckley ANG, CO; Patrice BULLOCK-Pentagon; Dan BALTRUSAITIS; Butch ALLIGOOD; Harry CONLEY-Joint Simulation Systems Office, Orlando, FL; Jeff HAGENS-Barksdale AFB, LA; Ken TINGMAN-U.S. Special Operations Command/J-6, MacDill AFB, FL. Acouple of ’83ers not pictured are Russ MERIT-Bolling AFB, D.C. and Sue (ROTH) HIRST-Peterson AFB, CO. If Idid not have your assignment and you want it included in the next issue please be sure to mail it to John DURESKY or myself.

Russ SMITH and his large family have just arrived at Hurlburt Field from Scotland, and he will be an instructor at the Air Ground Operations School (AGOS). Ken “Mr Special Ops” TINGMAN says that Scott MOORE and Brian LOCE are doing exceptionally well as Navy Seals. Sean HEATHERMAN is working at SHAPE Headquarters in Belgium. Stu CONRAD is working on Wall Street making lots of money. He and his wife had triplets last year (so he needs all of that money, don’t ask him for aloan). Jimmy MARDIS is with Tyson Foods and always looking for afew good grads. Mark VAHALA is fl ying for the Reserves in Charleston and working for FedEx. Jim WHITAKER and Robert GREGOR are both in Louisville, KY flying for UPS. Living the tough life with Ken TINGMAN at MacDill are Billy HORN, Bruce LEPLEY, and Dave HARENSACK, all at CENTCOM; Lou CAPORICCI is with SOCCENT; Markos DIETERS is at USSOCOM. Iunderstand that all of the ’83 grads at MacDill are willing to take you out on their yacht, the “Take aKnee,” so be sure to look them up when you are in the area.

Recieved aphoto taken at the Promise Keepers Symposium in Tampa, FL this past summer of Cecil GRANT, Kevin CARENO, Ken TINGMAN, and Lou CAPORICCI. Unfortunately, the photo was too grainy to print. Hey fellas what about the promise to come out and ski with me. Do you plan to keep it? Ray BLUST sent some info.

An update from Ray BLUST in West Virginia. Ray, Julie, and Mat¬ thew are doing fine and nothing has really changed since the last Check¬ points which you got just before Christmas. Ray and the rest of the AA pilots are anxiously awaiting anew contract. They’ve been without one since August of ’94. Jon and Brenda DURESKY left Andrews this past fall and headed for the heartland of America, i.e. Scott AFB, where Jon is now abona fide “staff weenie” doing what Idon’t know. As with all of us, the kids are growing up way too fast. Jeffrey is following in his dad’s footsteps as an aspiring young wrestler. Kendall is in 4th grade and still enjoys her favorite chair, daddy’s lap. Brenda, who of course is the true heart and soul of the clan, is glad the move is over as she nearly did it solo. Brenda you’re way too good for Jon.

The Dureskys

Gayle (JOHNSON) DENNY and John (’84) write from the muddy banks of the mighty Ohio in Cincy, OH. Gayle like Ray is in the AF Reserves as an admissions liaison officer and made major and will pin it on June 1, ’97. Gayle is quite the avid gardener where she grew her own tomatoes and peppers and made her own salsa. The rest of her spare time is spent taking care of Grace who is in 3rd grade and Wes the kindergartner. John is also in the Reserves as aKC-135 pilot and flies for Airborne Express out of Cincy.

Kevin and Cara MCMILLIN write from the muddy banks of Califor¬ nia. Kevin is aKC-135 pilot and hoping to hear from FedEx soon while Cara is ateam leader of the Temecula Screamers tennis team. Please ex¬ plain the name Kevin. They have three kids: Josh afreshman and quite

the triathlete, Kelli the 6th grade soccer star and of course Maureen, the 20-month-old Barney lover.

Next come the HIGHs from the Deep South, Maxwell AFB and ayear of the “Blue Room Blues”. Doug left Dhahran AB, Saudi Arabia a month before the bombing. We’re glad for you Doug. He was just notified his next assignment will be to Seymour-Johnson as aWSO in the F-15E. Kim, Doug’s better half, is turning into an athletic jock and a hardbody type in hopes Doug will follow. They have one child, Hilary, who is four going on 21.

Mark REINECKE, Yvonne, Steven, Tina and Jared are still in DFW. I don’t think Mark does his own cards because Julie and Ray moved out of their in-laws house over four years ago but Mark still sends his cards there. Maybe aregistered letter next year. Mark and Yvonne are both S-80 FOs in DFW.

The Engleharts

Next the faithful ENGLEHARTs write from San Antonio where Rob is now the “loved by all” involuntary assignment officer. Rob, Ithought the AF was an all volunteer force? Except for aviators? Edith continues to be the super mom where she balances work, homework, cookie mom for GS and of course must attend to Rob’s every demand—not! Kristin is now 10 and is in the 5th grade, while sister Alyssa is in the third grade. See ya guys.

iifThe Lagrones

The LAGRONES write from next door at Wright-Patterson AFB. Cameron is in kindergarten and Jake is in 2nd grade and aspires to be a “jet-flying Dallas Cowboy!” Jaime “she’s way too good for you” is en¬ joying her new-found freedom by attending nursing school. Keep in touch. Mike and Gisela SHANAHAN write from Bolling AFB where Mike is at the Pentagon doing? After four years he is ready to get back to flying. Gisela continues to home school Sean and Kyle and enjoy the freedom and numerous museums in the D.C. area. Bill (Ray’s best man) and Holly RUJEVCAN are doing great in L.A. Ruj is aself-employed real estate genius and should have ahouse overlooking the ocean very soon. They have one daughter, Marielle, and thank God she looks like Holly.

Ron and Tonia GRAVES write from Del Rio, TX. They’re looking tor another job in or out of the AF, that has yet to be determined. They have two great kids who our Matthew loved to play with, Kathryn and Eric. Jeff and Ellen FIEBIG write from Nellis where Jeff is finishing up his stint with T-birds. His future is also yet to be determined. Atrip south to Luke may be in the cards. Ellen, an ’84 grad, commutes to her Reserve job at Luke and looks forward to possibly driving instead of flying to work. They have two kids, Derek (9) playing football and Danielle (7)

who is an aspiring pianist. Mike PADILLA writes from Travis. Idon’t know his wife’s name or his two-year-old’s either, more to follow. Finally the bag is empty with the last news from the EIDMANs. Craig and Maura are still at Kirtland AFB where Craig is aStrategic Plans chief. That’s it for Ray’s input.

Pete MCCAFFREY got afew letters and provides us with the foiiowing: Here’s aphoto of our very own Amy (WIMMER) COX representing the United States at the first-ever Summer Biathlon World Champion¬ ships in Austria. She has been amember of the U.S. National Team for the past five years. When Amy’s not competing at world competitions, she’s working in Nashville, TN as acritical care nurse and USAFA admis¬ sions liaison officer. In her spare time, she’s keeping her husband, Tony, out of trouble and tending to adog, two cats and five tarantulas. Good on ya Amy, we’re proud of you.

‘‘Stop or I’ll shoot I”

Ibumped into Erwin “Silk” WASHINGTON at one of the first home basketball games of the season. “Silk” is still flying with United Airlines while keeping current in the C-141 with the Reserves. Other hoopsters I’ve been in contact with are Mike EDWARDS, who’s serving his penance in astaff tour at the Pentagon. By the way, congratulations to Mike and Wendy who recently celebrated the birth of their first child, Ashley. Ashley’s abeautiful child, and obviously favors her mother’s side of the family. Rick “Rocket” SIMMONS is living in New Jersey and working for the Reserves. I’m still at the Academy working as adeputy group AOC for Fourth Group (scary thought, isn’t it)!

My former cadet squadron and UPT roommate, Tim DUFFY, is flying the friendly skies with United Airlines as well as with the Massachusetts Air National Guard fl ying F-15s. Tim and Kim have four children: Timothy, Bridget, Erin and Colleen.

Pete and Iactually enjoyed putting this article together. We especially enjoyed hearing from all of you who wrote or called. We hope that when your travels bring you to the COS area you will stop and look us up! Last but certainly not least it is important that those of you who have been holding out on sending information worth printing about yourself or our fellow classmates (the truth is optional) send it to the appointed scribe for our next article who is Jon DURESKY. He is attempting to list informa¬ tion about at least 83 of our classmates in the next article. Send the infor¬ mation to 739 Carol Ann Dr., O’Fallon, IL 62269. You may also send it to either myself, Ray BLUST, or Pete MCCAFFREY and we will insure that it gets to Jon. My address is 4203B W. Muledeer Dr. USAFA, CO 80840.

Mike Jensen

12035 Milam Road

Colorado Springs, CO 80908

1-800-G0-AFA-G0/(719) 481-4646

E-mail: jensen84@mrcenter.com

Home Page: www.mrcenter.com/usafa84

Percent members: 29

Never say Never: Yes it is true: there is someone for everyone—Jay CHARMELLA recently got married (Nov. 23, 1996). Jay fl ies for American Airlines out of Dallas, as does his wife. Chris “Major Intensi¬ ty” ERICKSON presided as the best man. Looking much better than both of them were the flower girls, Chris and Susie’s daughter, as well as the daughters of Tommy HUGGINS and Tommy WILSON.

Update from Joe: Joe CALDERON passed on some updates of our classmates. Joe is in Moreno Valley, CA flying for United. Roxanne

HERNANDEZ is in Fair fi eld, CA fl ying C-5s in the Reserves. Tony STANBURY is in Dallas, fl ying for American. Curt ATENCIO is a manager at Denver International. Dave WILLIAMS is in Cheyenne, WY flying Guard C-130s. Anne BUNCH is at Ft. Leavenworth (at Army ACSC). Bruce UMLAND is fl ying for Delta. Kent AYCOCK is in Louisville flying for UPS. Ed BACA is in San Diego flying for UAL along with Dan SMELTZ and Rick “Flash” GORDON.

Abig thank you to Ernie (with afootnote to Chris Berman): In my state of desperation Tom EANNARINO came to my rescue and got me updated with the latest news. By the time this is published, he and Jaynie should be on their way to that five-sided D.C. structure known as the “place I’ve gotta go to get where Iwant to be in the Air Force.” The EANNARINOs have three children, Mary (9), Steven (7) and Dominic (1). While in the flying world of USAFE, he ran into Tim and Maria (MARZANO) MADGETT. Tim is at Wright-Pat, and Maria is working at home taking care of their four children. Bob “Pee Wee” MONDY is out of the Air Force, working for Stryker Corporation in Portage, Ml. Mark “Lep” KELLY fi nished ACSC and is out at Guam. Brad “not Spud” WEBB lived next to Ernie and flies Special Ops helicopters out of Mildenhall and will probably head to ACSC in ’97. Keith “Doc” HEIEN is at 3rd Air Force on astaff tour, and flies F-15Es. Dan “the man” SWEENEY is at Elmendorf AFB, AK fl ying F-15Es. Dave “Mako” PETERSEN is at the Pentagon after completing ACSC. Those “peddling fl esh” in San Antonio are Tony BUCK, Jon HUSS, and Charlie HEATH. Brent JOHNSON and Mike MCKELVEY are at ACSC. Brad “Grunt” ROBERT and Mark “last” CHANCE are doing their staff time at ACSC.

Also in the flying mix are Bob “Mongo” RODGERS flying F-15s at Mountain Home, Wayne ADKISSON F-15s at Eglin, Chris DINENNA F-15s at Nellis, and Jeff HUFF F-16s at Nellis. When last reported, Charlie “Tuna” MIDTHUN and Mark “Chairman” MOUW are at Seymour-Johnson flying F-15Es. Joe WILEY was flying C-130s out of Hurlburt Field, and Jack “Kanga” ROOSA was fl ying F-16s out of Spangdahlem, and was slated to go to Weapons School. Thanks again to the Eannarinos and if you have anickname that should appear in this col¬ umn or on the home page, please get in touch with Ernie, Chris or me!

CALL4ICE: Not just afond rememberance of the “dark ages” of USAFA but also the e-mail address off Doug FARNHAM. Doug and Nichi (SCHUETTE ’85) FARNHAM are living in Bangor, ME. Doug is in the Maine Air Guard, flying KC-135s, when not running the family business dealing in packaging ice and ice cream for distribution in Maine and New Hampshire. When she is not taking care of their two children, Nichi has gotten into politics, narrowly losing arecent race (versus the in¬ cumbent) for state legislature. So when in the area, give Doug acall. Maybe he can get you or Mitchell Hall abetter deal on those “Mitchell Mountains.”

Scott SCHIMMELS recently separated from the Air Force and is work¬ ing as aresearch consultant for the University of Dayton Research In¬ stitution in the Aerospace Mechanics Group. He has two children: Jen¬ nifer (6) and Ethan (3) with another on the way.

Did you see the list? Yes two of our classmates were on the lieutenant colonel list well below the zone. Tim SAKULICH and Terry FEEHAN were recently promoted—CONGRATULATIONS! Terry is stationed at the Pentagon in the AF Inspector General’s Office, working inspection oversight for the AF. He enjoys the D.C. area with daughter Melissa. Also sighted near the IG is Nick PSALTAKIS. Nick is married to Melanie and has three sons.

Where are they now? With over half of our class out of the mainstream Air Force, it is my hope we can keep in touch through the use of our home page with e-mail capability. If we continue to get the inputs from the class as Ihave the past three months, we should really have agreat system for keeping in touch with each other. Iam also working with other classes to make sure we can “link” up to other class home pages and eventually the AOG will provide the links.

More info on our class: Tim BROWN wrote that he PCSed back to Hurlburt in ’95 and is presently the chief of Rotary Wing Flight Safety at HQ AFSOC (still flying the venerable MH-53J Pave Low). Philip LONG wrote he’s hanging out in Seattle working for Alaska Airlines. Chris MC¬ CORMACK wrote he received the December 96 issue of Runner’s World and on page 11 there is apicture of Joy (MEYEN) SMITH in apiece on a lOOxl-mile relay. She helped field and anchored the 100-member team. (The team averaged 5:53 per mile). See the magazine for full details.

Joe JOHNSON is finishing the EA-6B Prowler transition and starting up the Joint Expeditionary Prowler squadrons at NAS Whidbey Island, WA. He’s continuing to pay (lessons in humility) for Navy beating AF. Joe has afishing boat and lives three blocks from the boat ramp, life is good. Matt JOHNSON is living in London in the same apartment com¬ plex as Jerry SELLERS, who is doing aresearch job in London. Ken ARTEAGA is teaching in the Management Department with Craig

HUGHES. Bob THOMAS and wife, Pam, were recently in Colorado Springs over Christmas. Bob is at the Army’s Command and General Staff College.

Steve KRAM wrote about the latest from Air University land: Tim SAFFORD is asquadron commander in one of the SOS Student Squadrons. Steve SAMPLE and Pete EUNICE are ops officers, and KRAM’s the Officership Applications Branch chief. He owns flickerball, volleyball and the end-of-course wargame Atlantis—a tough job. Alot of their faculty went over to ACSC this year including Brett MAYHEW and Kyle “Elvis” LAMPELLA. Ed RUTHERFORD writes he is flying DC-8 for DHL out of Cincinnati. Denny BENSON writes he is working as a logistics analyst in Montgomery. In the spring of 1997, he will be going back to AFSPACOM in Colorado Springs and back to missile ops. Rich CORDELL writes from Ft. Dix, NJ. He is going through ASAM (Ad¬ vanced Study of Air Mobility). It’s AMC’s answer to Weapons School. Jim HOWARD and Joe HERRON are also there doing the same thing. Joe is in the class ahead of Jim and Rich. ASAM is an AFIT master’s degree in logistics, abunch of great TDYs around the world seeing how everyone else does their logistics, most of the schools offered by the Air Mobility Warfare Center.

Michael BENEVENTO is separated from the AF and living in the Raliegh-Durham, NC area. He graduated in ’84 from the 33rd Squadron. He married the former Kristine Johnson and has two kids, Matthew and Clavin. A1 VIERA writes from Dyess AFB, TX. He’s aWSO in the B-1. A1 is married to Maria and has two giirls, 8and 5. Other classmates at Dyess are John BAKER and Dan SHERMAN. They all got promoted to major, and are doing fine. Walt JUREK writes that in September he “took off the blue shirt” and now is working as the supervisor of Booster Fabrication for Delphi Chassis System. Wife, Tammie, and Walt now have three children, Joshua, Megan, and Timothy.

Send in your pictures and keep those e-mails coming! For more info as we get it, check out the home page. Take vare. Jens.

Jackie Charsagua

1701B 9th Street

Langley AFB, VA 23665-1720

DSN; 574-5954

Work: (757) 764-5954

E-mail: charsagj®hqaccxp.langley.af.mil

Percent members: 34

Hello Mates, hope all is well. Afew of you tried to reach me via e-mail with no luck. There may have been atypo! So Iincluded it again here (it sure is easier and quicker). Here’s the roundup from the Christmas cards.

Brent and Pam (HENRY) HRNCIR are finally stationed together in San Antonio, living 10 minutes from the River Walk, enjoying riding horses and flying at Randolph. Pam is in T-37s; Brent in T-38s.

t ■7 nr I--..#?’;,’,

from Hanscom. Their move was marred by acollision with adeer (do vi¬ sions of hoofs and horns dance in your head?), but thankfully no injuries to the family. Wayne works for the Ballistic Missile Defense Of fi ce (BMDO), and Wendy has her hands full with two very active young gentlemen. Ruthann (LUEKEN) and John THOMPSON (’84) are living in Alexandria. Ruthann enjoys staying home with Margaret and Johnny; John is aJoint Strike Fighter Program Element Monitor (PEM)— which keeps him hopping and makes for much later dinner times. Charlene (JARDIN) and Bill (HARDING) have acomfortable life in Springfield, VA, with Christina and Austin. Char works for DISA and Bill is with the office of the SECDEF doing space architect work.

Quintel and Renee WILLIAMS have moved from Florida back to C-Springs, where the “Q” is working at HQ AFSPACE. Getting ac¬ customed to the cold weather again—BRRRR!

Further down south, Tish (DIERLAM) married Dan NORMAN (’89). Dan and Tish have ahouse in Norman, OK (Tinker AFB), and have become the “Normans from Norman.” They are trying to work an assignment together.

Jim and Yvette (PEREZ) HIRD are still in San Antonio and expect their first child in late spring ’87. Linda (SVERDRUP) LARSH, hubbie, Steve (’76), and four children have moved from San Antonio to Gig Har¬ bor, WA—their new home. After quite asuccession of blown tires and overheated engines, they arrived safely in Washington. In our nation’s capital, we have acontingent of classmates who call D.C. home. First Tina (THERRIEN) and Mike HARVEY (’84), their two sons, and alittle one expected in May. Tina just completed Joint PME, Phase II in Norfolk, VA, and is working on the Joint Staff. Wendy (COOK) and Wayne POST (’84), and their two sons, recently moved

Now, to another continent; England to be exact. Kerri (BROUSSARD) TASHJIAN and family (Steve and twins James and Jennifer) have ex¬ tended their stay to May ’98. Kerri enjoys acake decorating business and traveling to the European sites like Paris and Amsterdam.

Even further south, from Brasilia, we hear from Bob DOOLEY. In his words, “I’m getting to be a‘college student’ for the first time in my life. I’m working on amaster’s in international relations under the Olmsted Program at the University of Brasilia, Brazil.” WOW! Bob and his wife will be there until Jan ’98 and welcome you (if you are brave enough) to hop down from Charleston. Bob passes the following info: Ed NAGLER is an F-16 asst ops officer at Moody. Ron BABSKI is aweapons officer in one of the F-15 squadrons at Tyndall (has three girls: somethin’ ’bout those Gs...). Jim TAYLOR and his wife, Lisa, left Boise for Tucson, where Jim will be an F-16 IP. Dave TAN is flying the friendly skies and living in South Bend, IN. Kevin HORTON and Kevin CAVANAGH have both settled in the Springs. Bob also heard from Tony SEELEY just before he and Russ QUINN took aEuropean vacation with the Thunderbirds. Jim, thanks for all the good scoop.

As for the Langley crowd, not much to report. Ran into Wayne OLSON in the hall; he works in ACC/DOXE, exercises. Folks here in¬ cluded Marty GRANUM, Todd WYNN, Mike CRAMER, Terry SEAMAN, Paul SKOWRONEK, Dave and Maria (SHELLABARGER) NISSEN, and Brian SELVAAG. BK is in my ACSC seminar and “keeps forgeting” to provide apicture of him and his beautiful bride. Maybe next time.

Lastly, Shelly (GINDER) GRADY hails from Damiansville, IL. Shelly is the mother of five, the model of home-schooling moms. In fact. Shelly volunteered to write one of the articles in the future, so Iwon’t spill the beans.

As for me, I’m headed off to Leavenworth, KA, in June ’97. They finally caught up with me! Ihave to do my time for past crimes commit¬ ted against humanity... I’ll be ablue suit amid green at Army Command and General Staff College. WHOOAH! Actually, I’m excited and thankful for the opportunity to represent the Air Force. Should be an adventure.

Take care, jackie c.

Tish and Dan Norman

The Hrncirs with Nikki and Sheka.

Gary L. Burg

7^20B IStreet

Elmendorf AFB, AK 99506-1232

Home: (907) 753-9211

Work: DSN (317) 552-9775

E-mail: Beaker90FS@aol.com

Percent members: 37

k'

Isure dislike deadlines during the holidays. One of the first things I want everyone to note is my new e-mail address. If anyone tried to e-mail me anything for this deadline, Inever received it. The e-mail in the last column was incorrect to start with and even with the syntax change would not have gotten to me as Iwas having trouble with my WOW server that eventually shut down the end of January. That may be one reason this column will be short, the other is Ididn’t get any news from anyone other than some Christmas cards without anything to report. Ihope everyone had agreat Christmas holiday and is looking forward to 1997. Looking back at 1996,1 thought it was agreat year. Iknow those who got picked up one year below the zone should also think so. The highlight was our 10-year reunion which was probably one of the best times I’ve had at an Air Force-related event of any type. Speaking of our 10-year reunion, that is where Iended the column last. I’ll finish up the event as the first order of business before Icover what little else Ihave.

good reminder of our days as cadets. That was the last official activity of homecoming although if you would have seen the crowd at the visitors center after the game you would have thought that was part of the sched¬ uled activities also. If you didn’t make homecoming, Ihope most of you picked up some ’86 class memorabilia. The visitors center had some really nice stuff of good quality and adecent price if you paid early.

’86 enters the Rice game.

After Friday night’s gathering, our reunion/homecoming was entering its last 24 hours of events. Saturday morning we had atailgate party out¬ side Doolittle Hall (the AOG building) that was the only social event to in¬ clude all the classes participating at the reunion. It was agood showing and we had great weather leading up to the football game. Most of us bused down from there to the stadium for the game. Rice was an ap¬ propriate opponent as they were coached by former Falcon head coach Ken Hatfield. The ’86ers gathered at the southwest corner of the stadium in pretty much one group, definitely adifferent look at Falcon football. On the first Falcon score it was very evident that we still have alot of spirit as “spirit cheese” flew everywhere. Although the game was close at first, we blew out the Owls in the second half and won by alandslide. I was really hoping to see the famous “streaker” at half time but unfor¬ tunately there was no command performance. Iguess too many people are concerned with their professional image these days and getting pro¬ moted to major. The sunburn most of us received should have been a

Trolls and spouses at the 10-year reunion.

The Trolls gathered at T.K. SMITH’S house after the game and reminisced about the old days. Some of our wives must have thought we were crazy the way we carried on but all of us had agreat time nonethe¬ less. Like Isaid in the last column, it was an outstanding event in every respect. If anyone has photos they would like to share in the column, please send them my way and if anyone has other information they would like me to fill in please send that off to me also. 1can be FAXed to by home address if you call me ahead of time and let me set up my computer to receive your FAX.

Well that is all Ihave except for some change-of-address notices I didn’t get to put in last time. Merrilll ARMSTRONG is now in Vacaville, CA; Matt FENTON is in Yorktown, VA; Anthony ZUCCO is in Lit¬ tleton, MA; Dennis MALFER is at Seymour-Johnson AFB, NC; Neil and Deborah SAUVE are in San Antonio, TX; Kellie DAVILA-MARTINEZ is working at HQ USAFE; John VICKERS is in Miami, FL; and Bill LYONS is in Peoria, AZ. Other change of addresses that didn’t make the 1996 Register of Graduates are Tony AMADEO who is at Warner Robins, GA; Kyle KINGSFORD who is living in Spokane, WA; Glen MOORE who is living in Shelburne, VT; Rich LECLAIRE who is living in Lancaster, CA; and Igor BEAUFILS who is living in Maumee, OH. By the way, some of you guys need to update your bios for the Register as it still shows you at pilot training. Well that’s all from this end. WRITE, E-MAIL, PHONE OR FAX, whatever it takes to get this column full next time around.

Sharon Giletti

4206K W. Muledeer Drive USAFA, CO 80840 (719) 472-1195

E-mail: gilettigp.df@usafa.af.mil

Percent members: 38

Happy New Year! Ihope you all had agreat holiday and were able to take some time to enjoy yourselves. Unfortunately, none of us were able to watch the Falcons in abowl game—maybe next season! Well, it ap¬ pears that Igave the correct e-mail address for my husband and 1have received several letters.

My first official “scribe” correspondence came from Ken VELTEN (CS-38). He’s been living here in Colorado Springs for acouple of years with his wife, Susie, and daughter Allie. He’s out of the Air Force and is working for MCI as aproduct development manager. Ken’s still in the Reserves and was promoted to major last spring—congratulations. I guess those three or four months in Turkey paid off. Ken and Susie are

CLASS OF 1987 10-YEAR REUNION

‘86 Trolls at the Rice game.

expecting another child this April! Ken confirmed that Karen NAGEL moved to the Washington, DC area and that Jeff CLIATT (CS-19) has PCSd here.

Iran into Jeff, his wife and son on awalk with our gang, but didn’t have time to chat as our little ones were not too pleased with sitting idle. Ken also filled me in on afew other classmates who have gotten out. Matt PITZEL (CS-19) is doing really well in sales for Astra-Merck in Chicago. He was their number one salesperson in the U.S. last year—wow! Steve SIGLER (CS-30) got out afew years ago and works for asoftware development company in Austin, TX (what agreat city to be living in by the way—lucky you). Steve and his wife, Erin, have two daughters. And Steve SPEWOCK (CS-18) is living in Boston. Ken didn’t say what he was up to, but knowing Steve, it’s no good! Ha! Ha!

While Iwas talking to John ABBATIELLO (CS-21) over the fence (we’re neighbors), he updated me on the whereabouts of several classmates. Dave “Doc” MILLER (CS-27) is on his way here to teach in the MAS Department (the department formerly known as PMS) from Naval Post Graduate School. He and his wife, Cameron, have anewborn son, Jonathon Andrew. Mike BETTNER (CS-35) has been stationed here for the past year teaching astro and flying the T-3. Ray WRIGHT (CS-21) is out of the AF and is working in Vicksburg, MS as afinancial planner. Matt MACE (CS-4) is flying out of Edwards AFB. He and his wife, Stefanie, also have anew baby, Abigail Paxton. The stork sure has been busy for ’87!

Igot aChristmas letter and e-mail from Mike (CS-11) and JOEIlen STEWART. They relocated to Andrews AFB this summer after Mike finished up adeployment to Bosnia (they were stationed at Little Rock AFB). Mike’s flying VIPs in the C-20 (what acushy job), but they have found time to see the sights of Washington, DC playing tourist with their two children. Erica and Matthew. He made the transition from the mighty C-130 to the svelte Gulfstream quite well, but no longer has quite the cargo space to haul all those worldly trinkets home. That’s okay though, because he’s home alot more and can spend more time with his family.

Erica, Mike, JoEllen, and Matthew Stewart

Iheard from afellow Hanscom AFB alum—Ross MCNUTT (CS-10). He and wife, Stacy (’88, SIDOR, Ithink), are back in the Boston area (are you guys homesteading?). Ross is back at school trying to finish aPh.D. at MIT, Ithink, and Stacy is at Hanscom in the AW ACS SPO. They aiso are very busy with three kids (two of whom are twins—no fair, Stacy!). Ross says that other than that and the shock of being in his 30s, going from one to three kids, getting afew gray hairs from his thesis, and buy¬ ing aminivan, everything is great. Ihear you, Ross! Ross has also put together aclass home page to keep us abreast of things. The site address is http://mcnutt.mit.edu/usafa87/usafa87.html. The AOG home page is http://mcnutt.mit.edu/USAFAAOG/USAFAAOG.html. Check it out and let Ross know what you think. Our household hasn’t hit the informa¬ tion highway so unfortunately, Ican’t give you any info, but if Ross did it. I’m sure it’s fi rst-rate.

From the newswire, Iheard that Eric MELLINGER (CS-9) recently returned to Camp Lejeune, NC, after completing asix-month deployment to the Mediterranean Sea. Eric was assigned to the 22nd Marine Expedi¬ tionary Unit (MEU) where he and his unit assisted in the evacuation and protection of U.S. citizens during the civil unrest in Monrovia, Liberia, and the protection of the U.S. Embassy there.

Jeff RHODES (CS-1) gave me aquick update on himself and afew other classmates. Jeff’s out of the AF and is the chief technical officer for Platte Canyon Multimedia Software Corporation, asmall company he set up with agood friend. They develop mulitmedia training and develop¬ ment tools. He and his wife. Sue STALLMAN (’88), have two sons, Derek (5) and Michael (1 ‘A). Sue’s out too, working for the city of Col¬ orado Springs. Jeff has run into several classmates. Tom REMPFER

(CS-1) is on furlough from American Airlines, but he has athree-year assignment back on active duty flying the F-117 at Holloman. Hoang TRAN (CS-37) is an orthopedic resident in San Diego. He’s in the inactive Reserve for another year or so, and then returns to active duty. Hoang also got married last spring—congrats! Scott FOX (CS-1) has PCSd from Vandenberg to Wright-Patterson (AFIT). Pat MCKENNA is asoccer coach here at USAFA. Ken THEWES is working at Procter &Gamble in Ohio. Merrill HOEKSTRA (CS-8) is still teaching econ here, but is plann¬ ing on separating from the AF this summer. Ben RODARTE (CS-2), a United States Marine (hooya!), is in Okinawa. And Glen STREBE (CS-12) is aVP at Air Academy Federal Credit Union.

Tim MATSON (CS-22) also sent an e-mail (what would we do without it?). He’s been here at USAFA for ayear now teaching history and flying the T-3. Tim is also ahappy honeymooner—he married Lori in July. Tim let me know that Jay TUNG (CS-7) was selected to crossflow into AMC and will be leaving Kadena soon to fly C-5s out of Dover AFB. He and his wife, Marylee (’88)’ and their one-year-old, EJ, are pretty excited to get back to the States. Tim says that he and Jay are planning on returning to USAFA for our reunion next fall.

That’s right, it’s been aDECADE! Igot aletter from Jenny (WARDER, CS-28) MIGDAL who attended the Class of ’86 Reunion with her husband. Ialso went with my husband and had ablast. We were spoiled by living here and didn’t have to experience some of the minor (or major for some) difficulties involved with trying to attend everything, visiting friends, going back and forth to your hotel, and finding child care (or toting your tot along). You can forget about getting much sleep for three days, but it’ll be worth it. If any of you have been to one of your high school reunions, I’m telling you, it is nothing like that experience. It’s like walking into atime warp where even if you hadn’t seen someone since graduation, you still have so much in common and so much to share. Since Iwanted to get to all your updates. I’m going to have to con¬ dense Jenny’s letter abit (sorry Jen); but she has alot of great tips for those of you traveling here.

Jenny (Warder) Migdal and daughter

So, right here in my hands, from the home office in Colorado Springs, Ihave JENNY’S TOP TEN TIPS/TRUTHS FOR THE ’87 CLASS REUNION (Note: Although Ihave used abit of artistic license, this does reflect Jenny’s opinions). Number 10: Not only is it great to plan agettogether with your old squadron mates, but also your pilot training class (or Intel, etc.). Hopefully, someone from your squadron lives here and would be willing to host something. We had acookout for CS-30 and it was areal hoot! Number 9: Try to attend the “State of the Academy” briefings—chock-full of info. Number 8: People really haven’t changed much at all, however, many are civilians. Number 7: We should try to create some type of ’87 obituary display, so in addition to the memorial ceremony, we can reflect on our fallen classmates. Number 6: Maybe we should have afun survey to be published in the edition of Checkpoints following the reunion (e.g., most kids, most likely to make general first, first Thunderbird pilot, etc.). The results would really surprise you, believe me! Number 5: Have some type of day care arranged before you get here! This year, the ’86 Class Reunion Committee arranged for child care at the Infant Graduated Child Care Center, which was highly recom¬ mended. Even better, though, would be to have the grandparents (or some adults who can tolerate your kids for three of four days) take the kids. If they live by amajor airport, try to arrange your flight through to rendezvous for adrop-off. Number 4: Make sure you don’t leave your spouse hanging (see Number 5). It’s easy to get real nostalgic, but hey, not all spouses (especially those who weren’t grads) want to hear how many

tours so-and-so did or about all those wild trips to CU (unless of course that’s where you two met!). Number 3: Most people come in on Friday, so plan accordingly. Number 2: Definitely try to stay at the hotel where the reunion is being hosted or with someone who lives here. The nights were long and the drinks were flowing! And the Number One reunion Tip: START SAVING NOW—it can be expensive if you want to do everything, and you will! Well, Ihope that gets you thinking and plan¬ ning. The AOG will be sending out letters with official info; however, they are still looking for areunion coordinator. Any takers?

Abig thank you to everyone who wrote, called and e-mailed. It’s really fun to hear from you, and sad and sorry as it may sound, it really puts a smile on my face when Greg (my hubby) brings home an e-mail for me that’s not regarding an overdue book, adepartment kids’ party, or a social function. Not that those are bad, but it’s nice to do something out¬ side the realm of this organized chaos we call raising four kids! My next submission should be sometime mid-March—I’ll be waiting to hear from you. My deadline this time was 27 Dec. I’m sorry if Imissed some of your e-mails over the holidays. Iwill definitely make sure they’re in the next edition! Oh, if Icould just ask one favor. It would be nice if you could let me know what squad you were in. My mind’s not asteel trap and all my yearbooks, from 7th grade on, were “lost” in our last PCS. Thanks a bunch! Until next time—S.

Mark Peters

1218 Red Oak Court Vacaville, CA 95687-7601

Home: (707) 452-0900

Work: DSN 837-7250 or (707) 424-7250

E-mail: petersm@6ars.travis.af.mil

Percent members: 37

1 % m

mGreetings ’88! I’m not sure—is it the increased tempo of life these days, or just old-fashioned procrastination that has me typing away at 0434? I suspect it’s my failure to apply good time-management skills, but it’s time for New Year’s resolutions so this should be the last time I’m doing this at the last minute!

First, Igot anote from Kim GREEN who’s busy coaching tennis and flying the T-3 at the Zoo. She recently attended Anne (NEUBAUER) JOHNSON’S wedding, along with Niki LAUDOULIS and Mary Anne DOLAN. Anne’s aproduct marketing manager with Applied Materials Inc. and lives in Austin, TX. Mary Anne is the wing planning manager at Vandenberg and has two, boys, John-Paul (6) and Eddie (5). The wed¬ ding photo includes Niki, Kim, Anne, and her new husband, Rodney.

grade and Kip is enjoying flying the KC-10. He gave me lots of info, but with aqualifier: “If you hear that any of this is wrong, tell people it’s not my fault! They should keep in better touch!” Trust me, your scribe is always looking for material and Idon’t mind if your accuracy isn’t at 100 percent.

Dennis THORNTON (Cindy) is at McConnell in the KC-135. We saw him at Mildenhall on his way to the desert for yet another tour. Tim BUDD (Raina) is flying C-130s at Ramstein. Two kids and lots of flying. Dave and Desiree ARGYLE recently had their second child at Scott. Dave is working at HQ AMC/XPD (Strategic Planning). Charlie BESTARD (Shelly) is also at HQ AMC; two daughters. Chris QUIROZ and Josie KOSTYRA are both at Scott which is agood thing since they’re married and just bought abeautiful new house. Chris is aC-21 pilot and Josie works in DITCO. Todd TOFAUTE is an examiner in the C-141 at McGuire. Eric WIDIGER (Cathy) is OIC of the Survival portion of SERE at Fairchild. Bill BROOMHEAD is fl ying A-lOs at DavisMonthan. Irecently saw him during aquick trip to Arizona but, unfor¬ tunately, we didn’t have time to share Checkpoints info. Frank SCHMUCK (Andrea) is a737 pilot for SWA and Andrea is aflight attend¬ ant. Their “babies” are ahouse they’re refurbing in Phoenix and two or three horses. Dan TOLLY (Heidi) in in C-141s at McGuire. Kari THYNE is involved with ammo at Kadena, but was doing time (so to speak) in the desert for three or four months. Seb TROST (Darlene) is in C-141s (OGV) here at Travis. Molly QUILLIN showed Kip and me around Ramstein during our short time there. She’s aC-20 pilot, in addition to being famous at Ramstein’s Woodlawn Golf Course: her name is en¬ graved twice for besting all challengers for two years. She’s got acool business card which the editor might let squeeze in below. Lastly, Nebojsa SOLUNAC is an instrument school instructor at Randolph (and needs to call Kip)

CifffM0UTA.0UILLIN

76 AS

PSC2B0X 9336

APOAE 09012

Kim also sent some info she gleaned at the recent “Twenty Years: Celebration of Women at the Academy” conference which took place, obviously, at the Academy. Beth SCHISSEL is amedical student at the Medical College of Virginia. Elizabeth (GANZE) WET JEN is at Langley in Intel Systems. Linda and Gregg ROSENMERKEL are at Peterson, in intel and civil engineering (with one dog—Bucky). Kate (JACKSON) RUSSEL is at Scott by now with two daughters, Sarah and Rachel. Angela STOUT is married to Maj Mark Stout with four daughters, Kelly (14), Megan (12), Sarah (5), and Molly (2). Angela is chief of Training at ICACS. Lastly, Eric JENKINS is also at the Academy as an assistant track coach and UV-18B Twin Otter pilot. He’s married (Judy) with three kids.

Ihad arecent trip with one of our recent arrivals here at Travis, Kip TURAIN. He arrived from atwo-year tour at Scott with his wife, Maria, and their two children, Cayla (4) and Cristian (2). Maria is teaching 3rd

Ireceived acard and letter from Cliff and Stephanie WESTBROOK. Last time Iwrote about Cliff he was off to Russia. Fortunately he’s returned and things are going quite well for him:

When Ifollowed God’s leading to leave my wonderful job in the Air Force, Iwas choosing to trust not only that He would take care of my needs during my three-year assignment with the Nav’s ministry to the Russian military, but also that He would provide for my long-term needs—a job...career development...(and did Imention awife?).

He has given me the experience of the rich dependency that is full¬ time ministry. He has given me alovely, gentle, impelling, noble wife. Now He has revealed His providence again by leading me to aposition with AlliedSignal Aerospace.

July 22nd was the day Ireported for work at AlliedSignal’s Ocean Systems facility in Los Angeles. I’m the manufacturing engineer on our team which builds sonar for the U.S. Navy and the navies of Europe, Asia and South America. More specifically, this sonar is suspended from helicopters flying off of aircraft carriers.

We have bought ahome up in the mountains 15 minutes north of the L.A. city limits in atown called Santa Clarita. AlliedSignal is com¬ mitted to professional development so Ocean Systems encourages its people to get their master’s in business administration. I’ll start my MBA at Pepperdine University in January.

Stephanie was working on her master’s in biblical studies at Westminster Theological Seminary in San Diego. Now that we are set¬ tled, we are considering options by which she could continue her studies. She makes ahome to which Ilove to return every day—study¬ ing the Word, praying for our friends and family, keeping me abreast of the national and world news, reading books, baking my favorite sweets, and even starching my shirts. God has blessed us with a peaceful, love-filled home.

Cliff also included afew notes about some classmates: Carl MYERS is

in acquisitions at L.A. AFB. Scott CARY is chief of Training for his EC-130 squadron at Davis-Monthan. Jim LEE is the AOC of CS-39

Campus Rads.” He’s the first ’88er to return as an AOC!

Aquick call to Steve MALL at Randolph left me with amountain of material. Steve is married with two children, Julie and Megan, and is busy as aT-1 PIT instructor. Previously, he had been in C-141s at McGuire. Tom MACNAMARA (Jane), formerly Travis C-141s, is at Charleston in the C-17 with three kids. Marc HAYNES (Lisa), formerly aFAIP at Wil¬ ly, C-141s at McGuire, moved to Altus this past summer. Two kids: Carissa and Brendan. Alex DEFAZIO (Leigh) is abackseater in the F-15E at Mildenhall with one child, Alai. Bill MILLER is fl ying C-141s at McGuire. Keith MCCANN (Jill) has three kids: Hanna and twins Conner and Molly. Keith’s aT-38 IP at Sheppard. Terry and Lisa MCCAFFREY are at Mt. Home where Terry pulls Gs in the F-16. One son, Garrett. Last¬ ly, Cammie BUTTERFIELD is flying T-37s at PIT as well.

For those of you who have me on your e-mail address book, please note that my address has changed slightly, and while you’re in your e-mail anyway, send me some!

Paul W. Tibbets, IV

1410 Rockford Drive

Warrensburg, MO 64093

Home: (816)429-1198

DSN: 975-1125

E-mail: patibb@iland.net

Percent members: 38

Hello! 1hope everyone is living up to their New Year’s resolutions! I don’t know if you have thought about it, but in just two short years we will be attending our TEN-year reunion. Can you believe it? Iam looking for someone in the Colorado Springs area who would like to help with all of the planning and arranging for this gala event. It makes more sense to me that someone in the area work with me and the AOG to make it all happen! If you are interested, please get in touch with me so we can begin discussing the plans. Thanks! On to the news.

As you all read in last issue. Clay SMITH was killed in aT-3 crash on 30 Sep at the Academy. Jeff CASHMAN wrote me recently and said the Cadet Chapel was full for his funeral. He and Ben AKINS, Mark CHRIS¬ TIAN, and Trent KULL were pallbearers. Jeanne GOLDER read from the book of Romans during the service. Clay’s wife, Beth, who is also a T-3 instructor and an ’89 grad, is due in Feb (at the time of this writing). If anyone would like to contribute to the baby’s future education, a memorial fund has been set up. The address is: Clay Smith Memorial Col¬ lege Fund, Key Bank, 5725 Academy Blvd, Colorado Springs, CO 80918. Another suggestion made by the Academy chaplain, and avery good idea, is for those who knew Clay to send anote to the baby sharing their memories of him. If anyone is interested please contact me and Iwill pass along Beth’s address to you. Please keep Beth and her and Clay’s child in your thoughts and prayers. Jeff headed to Saudi Arabia for three months starting in December to man the Combat Operations Center at A1 Khar. Thanks for writing Cash.

My next letter comes from Doug MALONE in the form of aChristmas letter. He, his wife, Jacqui, and children Thomas, Will, and Yukon are stationed at RAF Lakenheath, England where Doug is an F-111 WSO. Last year the Malones toured Italy with visits to Milan, Verona, and Rome. I’m not sure why they didn’t stop by and visit me here in Knob Knoster! They are planning more traveling this summer, stopping in Washington (state), California, New Mexico, and Seymour-Johnson AFB, NC. Doug has also been on afew deployments, rounding out abusy year. Thanks for the letter!

Scott PILLSBURRY dropped me aline via the Christmas card. He and his wife, Nathalie, live in Portland, OR, where Scott is the services officer for the 939th Rescue Wing (AF Reserves). He and Nathalie are expecting their first child in August. Congratulations! Scott is also working in his family’s label company, and Nathalie is busy with her law firm. Scott heard from Ted CORALLO, his roommate from the zoo, who is flying C-130s in England. He and his wife, Jamee, and son Mason are doing well. Tim KANE, ’90, visited Scott last year with his wife, Hiromi, and son Sean. Tim is out of the Air Force and working on his PhD at UCSD, being adad, and running asmall software company in his spare time! Great hearing from you Scott!

My last letter/Christmas card comes from Christy KAYSER-COOK, who is stationed down in beautiful Enid, OK teaching guys and gals how to fly the Tweet (T-37). She and her husband, Gary, just built house, and have spent alot of time making it ahome (with alittle help from their families). Gary is with the KC-135 Reserve unit at McConnell AFB, KS. Although the newest member of the unit, he recently went on a two-week trip to Pisa, Italy, where he played tour guide for his squadron

mates. Christy and Gary adopted their baby last August (Lucy)—a Husky, Lab, and Shar Pei mix that they rescued from the local animal shelter. Christy says she is very playful, curious, and intelligent (sometimes too smart for her own good!). Christy is also working on her master’s degree from Embry-Riddle, taking classes on base. Thanks for the letter!

That’s all for now. Ilook forward to hearing from you Colorado Springs reunion helpers! If anyone has something they would like to do at the reunion, please pass along your ideas to me. Keep those letters com¬ ing! Thank goodness for Christmas cards! Take care and God bless.

Joseph C. Richardson

11764 McCarty Loup

Bellevue, NE 68123

Home: (402) 292-9373

DSN: 271-4850

Percent members: 34

Greetings Most Glorious Class,

Itrust that 1997 is being ablessed and prosperous year for you all. Things are going extremely well at the Richardson estate and 1997 has tru¬ ly been ayear of tremendous blessings. I’m still here at Offutt and am en¬ joying my stay. Well, enough about me, on to the news.

Joe and Michelle SHAHID sent greetings from Okinawa. Joe is back in the crew-dog mode in the ’135 and Michelle is the support flight com¬ mander in the communications squadron. They will be looking to leave the island no later than Jan ’98. Beach and Tamara CURTIS sent greetings from Sumter, SC. He is stationed at Shaw AFB flying F-16s with abunch of ’90 grads. He recently got married to the very lovely Tamara, formerly of Des Moines, lA. Beach sent in quite an extensive up¬ date. Kelly ALTON—F-16s at Hill AFB, John CARROLL—last seen in an A-10 at Osan AB, Dan DAETZ—F-15s at Kadena with wife, Esme (OSHITA ’91), Andrew and Christine DEMBOSKY—flying Vipers at Shaw, Jim DRAPE—last report flying C-5s out of Travis, Akshai GAN¬ DHI—signed up for an extra year of Viper flying at Osan, Bill GRAY—working intel down at Hurlburt, and Pan and Leah HANLON-F-16S at Shaw.

Also, Tim and Wendy HASSELL—F-16s at Shaw, Mike and Jackie KATO—F-16s at Eielson, Tom and Karen KLOPOTEK—F-16s Moody, Mike LIGHTNER—F-16s at Shaw, Jeff LIPSKY—Osan AB, Shaun and Lorrie MCGRATH—F-16s at Cannon, Kelly and Cathy (MORGAN)—Kelly flying Eagles and Cathy ’135s, Dave and Krystal (GUENTHER) MURPHY—Dave is aViper pilot and Krystal vironmental bioengineer at Shaw, Chris and Amy (GODESKY) OGREN—Chris is aF-16 pilot and Amy UH-ls, Joe PENDON—used to be aflight doc at Osan but has PCSd to parts unknown, Steve PLANK—F-15s at Kadena, Steve and Catherine PLATT—F-16s at Moody, Steve and Tammy PLESCHA—F-16s at Shaw, Randy REDELL—F-16s at Shaw, Ken RENGERING—F-16s at Moody, Shane RIZA—F-16s at Shaw, Bill and Sherry RUDDELL—F-I6s at Shaw, Mike SHEA—maintenance at Shaw, Paul and Alex SZOSTAK—A-lOs Osan, Garth TERLIZZI—F-16s at Cannon, Don “Kit” WALKER and wife, Lorie—T-37 IP at Columbus, and Jimmy WALKER—F-16s at Shaw. Thank you so much for an extensive update Beach. Peace and love to you and your bride, Tamara—and my chin is truly in!

My old roomdog and vice wing commander Mike CONTRATTO sent me greetings from the wonderful world of Bossier City, LA. Mike is the squadron tactics copilot and appears to be keeping himself very produc¬ tive. He sent to me the following updates: John BADER—copilot, Alex COS—aircraft commander, Russ HART—copilot. Shannon KRUSE—copilot, Russ MACLEAN—aircraft commander, Dan MANUEL—aireraft commander. Chuck and Mary SIMPSON—copilot, Chester TODD—radar navigator, and Steve and Trish ARBETMAN—copilot. Thanks for the news Mike. Maybe I’ll see some of you guys at SOS.

Craig DYE sent the most glorious class words from sunny Florida where he is flying trhe F-15 at Eglin. After being banked, he finished RTU in the F-15C at Tyndall back in ’95. While there, he roomed with Kevin TOLLEY and Wes HALLMAN. Kevin is an Eagle driver at Kadena, and

Make your tax-deductible donation now to The Air Force Academy Fund. Your Support Helps Develop Leaders With Vision For Tomorrow.

Wes flies F-15s at Langley. Wes got married ayear ago to asweet and very brilliant girl by the name of Shannon Rubino (she’ aPhD in interna¬ tional affairs). Craig met his beautiful bride, Lori, at Tyndall and got mar¬ ried on 1Sep 95. Congratulations to you both and thanks for the update.

Bernard BOIT sentgreetings. He is stationed in MildenhaU asTanoperations intelligence officer and flies on the RC-135 Rivet Joint as an observer. He sends words about Andre BRIERE—flying C-5s out of Travis AFB, Russ and Pam MACLEAN—flying B-52s out of Barksdale, and Duane THOMPSON—law school in Austin, TX. Lee NEWTON— fl ying helicopters, Pat FLOOD—still an unattached bachelor and possibly looking to go to MildenhaU to join Bernard in the same career field, Rick FOJTIK—flying with one of the special ops squadrons at MildenhaU, and Jim JORDAN—flying Eagles at Lakenheath. Thanks alot for the great update Bernard.

Brad and Julie NORRIS send greetings from Redondo Beach, CA. He went to the wedding of Dave LOOSE. Brad is working in Defense Con¬ tract Management Command at the McDonnell Douglas plant in Long Beach where they build the C-17. He and his wife have no kids as of yet but it sounds like some may be in the near future. You’ll have to get in touch with Brad and have him tell you the story about the Paul PETER¬ SON episode at Dave’s wedding. Get excited!

Karen (WATTS) BOSKO checked in from Verona, Italy. She sends ex¬ citing news of her recent marriage to Dave Bosko. She is excited about what the future holds for her and Dave as they begin their new life together. Lee and Danna ARMSTRONG also send greetings from Monterey, CA. They were married on 22 Jun 96. He is now at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey studying African area studies and will take French before returning to OSI. Thanks for the update Lee.

For all of you guys who sent pictures, Iwill include them in the next issue. Iran into some time constraints due to the deadline for this issue being during the ’96 holiday season. Thanks for your understanding. For now that’s it. Take care, God bless you all. PALS!

Carson Tavenner

3500 Oakgate Drive #2203

San Antonio, TX 78230

Home: (210) 699-1913

Work: DSN 969-2281

E-mail: tavenner@hotmail.com

Percent members: 40

James S. Mehta

2250 Clarendon Blvd., mi Arlington, VA 22201

Home: (703) 525-5495

DSN: 283-1317

Percent members: 33

Once again Igreet the True Blue Class of 1992. Ijust received my copy of Checkpoints in the mail, and it keeps getting better with each issue. I hope to hear from you all more than Idid this past quarter—I only received two letters. So I’ll just have to tell you about who Isaw and who 1talked to. Washington, DC has been treating me pretty well. Ihave been here since July and have had afew visitors and Ialways welcome more. First, my girlfriend came to visit me. Then Don UNWIN, my CS-22 roommate, visited me acouple of times. Once was during amission flying the C-9 from Scott AFB. Don was staying at Andrews AFB and we had a chance to go out to dinner and watch the Falcons on ESPN let ahuge lead slip away against CSU. To make matters even worse, the game didn’t end until almost 0200. (I’m sure those of you on the East Coast are well aware o.'' this.) Being an OSI agent working in DIA has its advantages. Iam try¬ ing to use as many of them to my benefit as possible. Thus far, Iam en¬ joying my job and am trying to get involved in different activities around town.

f are

1first got aletter from Steve BRODERICK shortly after moving to O.C. Steve has been afaithful writer the past four years. Right now, he is at Tinker AFB in Oklahoma. He says that he has run into alot of people—thus, athree-page letter. Steve and Chris ROGOWSKl have upgraded to aircraft commander in the AW ACS. Ally CHAUVIN is in his squadron as an instructor weapons director. Marlee RUST is an intel of fi cer with the AWACS. Steve’s old roommate at Tinker, Godfrey GUERZON, is at L.A. AFB in the OSI detachment. When Iwas at Ed¬ wards, G-Man and Ihad the chance to work together afew times. Anyway, Godfrey married Tiffany who is aphysician’s assistant from Oklahoma City. Pete OHOTNICKY also got married to Sherry, who he met while at grad school during abanked assignment. Walt ALLEN is at Fairchild AFB and is married too. He and his wife, Susan, are expecting a child before the end of this year. Rick MOORE and Jennifer VAN TIEM both flying KC-135s at Fairchild. Jennifer is now married to aU-2 pilot. Shane PRUITT and Wayne MURRIETTA were at Altus AFB for ’135 training after coming out of the bank.

Hello, all you Mighty Bold (and Slightly Old?) Golders! Congratula¬ tions on being able to find our class article scrunched in between ’90 and ’92. Sorry there isn’t much here to read; that will improve by the next edi¬ tion, Ipromise. I’ve been assigned to the Air Force Information Warfare Center and that naturally means that Iam actually denied information I need. You know how bureaucracy works...

In way of introduction, over the next few years Iwould like to see this column provide akind of identity for our class, aplace where friends can go to find out what is happening among the relationships we share among ourselves and with our nation. There’s no way this will ever be arespon¬ sive column (because these things get written before the previous edition even gets to you in the mail!) and Idon’t want it viewed as anyone’s editorial, but Ibelieve we would all benefit from knowing more about each other and what’s really happening out there than just who’s sta¬ tioned at what base. After all, there must be some good reason why you decided to stick with the AOG, right? Let’s find out what we’re thinking, and whether those thoughts are at all affected by having graduated from USAFA.

As astarter, Iwill present this thought and just let you reflect on it. Up until August, our class was the only class out of all 38 graduated classes that hadn’t lost aclassmate. Now things are different. Kim WIELHOUWER and Tony BOFFA are no longer with us. Both of them died in an accident. Now every class has at least one classmate who’s died. Ithink about being on the terrazzo early on aJuly morning in 1987 with the back of my T-shirt completely soiled in mud and someone in my face asking me if Iwas willing to die as part of the job to which we have all been called. Iremember thinking that Iwas willing; Iwas expecting to lose my life in awar against communisim. Now, Iam expecting to lose my life through an accident, and it calls to mind the need for adifferent kind of vigilance than what we were all expecting to deliver. Doesn’t it seem like the accidents are coming with greater frequency these days? Increased responsibilities and decreasing resources are definitely affecting us. Sometimes there doesn’t seem to be any common sense applied to people’s daily affairs or long-range planning. Let’s be careful out there and look out for one another; our families, our leaders, and our coworkers all need us to help them through these difficult times. Idon’t want to lose another classmate.

From left sitting are Walt and Susan Allen, Wayne Murrietta and Shane Pruitt. Standing are Steve Broderick and his girlfriend Elizabeth, and Jennifer Vantiem.

On one of his trips to Altus, Steve visited with Barry and Judy BLAN¬ CHARD who have ababy boy Jacob; and Paul and Heather SCOTT who have anew baby girl Laurel. Barry is going to Charleston to fly C-17s and Paul is going to Grand Forks to fly KC-135s. Steve ran into Brad WENSEL and Phil CLINTON also going through upgrade at Altus. Brad got married this summer. Also through the grapevine Steve reports that Jean TWOMEY and Roman ISAJIW finished their upgrades earlier this year in the C-5 and KC-135, respectively. Roman is married to Bridget (MATHESION, ’91). Also, getting married before the end of the year is Tim MARTIN. Tim was medically retired from the AF in ’94 and is work¬ ing as acivil engineer in Portland OR. (I hope he likes microbreweries!) Rich BROWN is now aT-37 IP at Columbus AFB and Ted ANDERSON is at Otis ANGB flying until his C-130 follow-on assignment comes through. Also, Mike KASIC is on his way to Charleston to fly ’17s.

During Steve’s travels this year he saw many ’92 grads. In Saudi, he saw Mark WINNS, Dan NEFF, Todd “Duke” ELLINGTON, and Brad MCMATH flying ’135s. While in Panama, Tom MAUER and Phil

FLEUREN, both out of Grand Forks, refueled him on his way to Howard AFB. John GLASS was at Howard flying C-27s, but is now at Kirtland training to fl y MH-53s. Jeff HUMPHRIES and Jessica HILDAHL have both returned to “The Hill” to teach. Jeff is in the Comp Sci Department and Jessica is teaching philosophy. Steve was selected to cross-train from heavies to the F-16 and will be heading to Luke for training. Thanks for the letter once again, Steve.

The other letter Ireeeived was from Lanee MEREDITH. Lance is at Vance and sent alist of folks who, graduated UPT, are in UPT, or are IPs at Vance. So here goes: Mark MATTICOLA and Kris ORLANDONI, RC-135S to Offutt; Sean LAWLER, KC-10 to McGuire; Mark SMITH, F-16 to Luke; Jay TEWKSBURY, UH-1 to FE Warren; Todd PRE¬ JEAN, UH-60 to Kirtland; Chad PITOG, fl ying helos; Albert CRUZ, KC-135 to Mildenhall; Pat MCCULLOUGH, KC-135 to Fairchild; Bill MESHACK, C-21 to Yokota; Rod RICARD, AW ACS to Tinker; Tony VALERIO, KC-135 to McConnell; Nick STEELE, B-1 to Dyess; and Tom SOHAYDA, C-130.

IPs at Vance: Doug SIRK, Rick QUARBERG, Brad ROSS, and Artie BAGMOLNY. Still in UPT at Vance: Greg ROBERTSON, Mike MCGUIRE, Don BAKER, Brian PORTER, Matt TERPSTRA, Michael Bob STARR, Lance WIKOFF, and Michael JASON. Lance also included some information on members of BULLDAWGS. Tony SIMPSON was recently married to Blythe and is at F-16 RTU at Luke. Chris DILLIS is married and working at the Pentagon. Johann VERRETT is fl ying C-130S at Little Rock. Mike FREIMUTH fl ies C-130s at Davis-Monthan. Woody HAINES flies C-130s at Elmendorf. And, as for Lance, he and wife, Audrey, are expecting their first baby in May ’97. They are headed to McGuire to fly KC-lOs.

One way or the other, Ihave gathered the following information. I talked to Rob ATKINS in Los Angeles. He and his wife, Jennifer, are ex¬ pecting their first child in Jan ’97. They are doing well and weighing the options of getting out. He recently went to Korea to be the best man in Jim LEE’s wedding. Jim got married in atraditional Korean ceremony and spent his honeymoon in Korea. Dave KUMASHIRO is doing alot of flying in Dover in the C-5. He upgraded to aircraft commander this fall. Scott NOWLIN is at Incirlik working for the 628 AMSS. He and his wife, Joelyn (TAYLOR), do not have ajoint spouse assignment there, but he is keeping busy with OCF and different chapel activities, and doing some traveling in Turkey.

My old Tarantula buddy Bob “Turbo” SEIFERT called me the other day. Bob is flying MC-130s at Hurlburt. He says he has seen Bruce DUNN (another CS-22 tall guy)) quite abit. Bob is living practically on the beach. Icalled Mark SLOCUM last month. He is still at Cannon AFB flying EF-11 Is. He says he will be there another year or year and ahalf. Then it looks like he will be moving over toF-16s. While at aTDY to Ft. Walton Beach acouple months back, Iran into Terry GOSTOMSKI. He and Imet in the Atlanta Airport catching the puddle-jumper to FWB. Terry is flying A-lOs and was taking aclass at Eglin. There were several other True Blue grads, but Ididn’t meet them all.

Last, my Edwards AFB connection, Mike ROKAW, has departed. Mike is back in the Springs at Falcon AFB. He just moved there in Dec with anew truck and into his own new house. Ihaven’t heard from him yet, but I’m sure Iwill. He was happy to move on since most everyone seemed to have PCSd from Edwards already. My old roommate out there, Lyle SHIDLA, is still keeping my house safe. He is planning a move shortly—most likely to Hanscom this summer. He was out here visiting me last weekend on aTDY. We went out and experienced Baltimore and D.C. nightlife. We had quite agood time, even watched a little football and drank abeer or two. Gotta go catch aplane to Califor¬ nia for the holidays; be back soon...

Here Iam in California. (That was fast!) 1got aphone call from Craig WENZ just before leaving D.C. He is at McGuire AFB, flying C-141s, and living near Philadelphia. Iseized the opportunity to pick his brain for some Checkpoints fill. He and Tom RICE (McGuire, intel officer) were getting ready to head out on the town. Here is his quick run-down: Clarence JOHNSON flying T-38s at Columbus (UPT); Brad ROLLER, E-3s at Tinker; Jeff MARKS, Jason WOLF, Brandon LOKEN, and Mike KOONS are all flying ’141s at McGuire. Mike and his wife just had a baby boy. Melissa (JONES) and Andy ROSS are still doing well at McGuire flying ’141s. Vinny TARANTINO is at Lakenheath working in¬ tel; Brian CARBAUGH (Marine Corps) recently got married and is sta¬ tioned in North Carolina; Thad KENNINGER is at Yokota and PCSing to Okinawa to fly his UH-60—Thad and his wife just had ababy boy. John LETSINGER is flying KC-135S at Warner Robins. And Jake “The Snake’ BUSS is flying ’135s at MacDill.

1actually did get one letter (all together now: YEAH!). It was at my house near Edwards AFB. Ichecked in there to see how things are and pick up any mail. Suzy STREETER included me on her Christmas card list and filled me in on the past year of her exciting life. She is in England

Suzy Streeter

now working an intel assignment, but it’s ber French language skills that have kept her busy. She has worked several TDYs as atranslator. She supported Operation Decisive Endeavor for 120 days. Her travels this year included France, Italy, Scotland, Belgium, and Russia, and some of the travel was even for pleasure. In addition, when she has been home she has been hosting visitors and staying involved in OCF, volleyball, choir, and being aGirl Scoiit advisor. Sbe really had so much in her letter that I felt tired after reading all of it. Anyway, she sounds busy, yet excited, so when in England, look her up (RAF Lakenheath, Ithink). Ihave her number and address for anyone who wants it.

1guess that brings another column to aclose. Ienjoy hearing from all of you and look forward to it in the future. Ihope you all had awonder¬ ful holiday season and are now enjoying the warmer weather of spring. So until next time...God bless. James.

Michael D. Sundsted

1430-C Galaxy Ave.

Scott AFB, II. 62225 (618) 744-9604

E-mail: Sundstem@wing..safb.af.mil

Percent members: 85

Happy New Year, Merry Spring! Hey ’93! The captain’s bars are com¬ ing! Ipray everyone had asafe holiday season and things are working fine well into the spring. As you have noticed, my address has changed so please note. As aresult of my “across-the-street” move, Iunfortunately lost acouple of your letters. Pam WISE sent me agreat letter, but it’s in the back of aRyder truck somewhere in the United States. (I did, however, manage to keep your wedding picture Pam.) With that debacle behind me, what do you say we jump into the mailbag!

Looks like we have asquid update from our Navy/AF classmates. Brian LEICH, Dale HOOVER, and James MCCARTNEY seem to be en¬ joying themselves on their ships at sea. Brian is almost through his sixmonth deployment at sea. He was involved with humanitarian and maritime operations in Romania aboard the USS Saipan Amphibious Ready Group. Idon’t know about you, but Ireally do appreciate the faet that Idon’t live on aboat. Next up...James happens to have aNaval degree in nuclear operations (uh-oh). His newly-acquired knowledge allows him to operate anuclear-powered sub, cruiser, or aircraft carrier. That’s some high-powered stuff (no pun intended). Finally, Dale has completed his 40,000 mile voyage on the USS Mount Baker. His ship sup¬ plied others with needed supplies and ammo. All joking aside, thanks for making ’93 look great guys!

The Association of Graduates updated me on one address—and the winner is...Katie (KNUDSON) DUNN. Hey Katie—write and update everyone on your wedding! Congratulations to you and your husband.

Mara MCNEILL writes from Vicenza, Italy on a90-day TDY to sup¬ port Operation Decisive Endeavor. Brian ALLEN, Paul MYRICK, Bryan CLARK, Elizabeth (STARK) CHAMBERLAIN, and Andy BOYD were all in attendance and were happy with their “mini-reunion.” Brian and Mara overlapped in the role of providing command and control systems. Paul was there TDY from Scott AFB. Bryan (Clark) was there from Falcon AFB, CO. Elizabeth and Andy did intel stuff while Ty CHAMBERLAIN flew B-52s and managed to romp Italy with the group. They got to see Milan, Cortina, Florence, Rome, Naples, Stuttgart, and

5*^ allied tactical air force

Andy, Elizabeth, Bryan and Mara enjoying life in Italy. Paris. Mara and Elizabeth got to enjoy Verona and Venice too. Sounds like your TDY was in its truest fashion—a vacation! Mara and her hus¬ band, Mike, will be moving to the Pentagon this spring. Thanks for the info guys!

Steve FRANK writes from England enjoying the F-15. He recently was involved with training the Royal Morroccan Air Force in combat tactics. In Steve’s polite words, “They were great guys, but didn’t really have a great deal of tactical equipment so it was pretty much acrushing blow to Morroccan aviation!” Ouch! At any rate, Steve says he has lots of room and welcomes any in our esteemed class.

Larry TRITTSCHUH updates us on his 1,000 hours of flying the KC-10 at McGuire AFB. “Ladies and gentlemen, this is Captain Trittsky on Delta Flight 757, welcome aboard!” Larry has been all over the world while his wife gets to work as an exercise physiologist.

In November Ihad achance to enjoy aEuropean trainer where Imet up with Stephen MCILNAY at Aviano, Italy. While enjoying some great Italian pasta we had achance to talk about some of our graduates. Mike SIMONELLI seems to be the talk of Northern Italy. He enjoys riding his Harley and dating his Italian model from Milan. Lee SPECHLER is ex¬ cited about being out of Korea. He is going on amonth of leave and will be reporting to Eielson AFB, AK. From what Iunderstand there were no emotional ties leaving S.E. Asia. Best wishes in your move. Also, Stephen is plugging along at Aviano. He’s looking to get an assignment to Mildenhall AB or Lakenheath AB, UK. Good luck.

Can we have awedding march, please? Congrats go out to Rich BEN¬ DA and his lovely bride, Suzanne. They were married at the Warner Robins chapel. In attendance were Casey HACKATHORN, Tony AMADEO (’86), Pat “Smitty’ SMITH, Tom FOSTER, Jeff MAR¬ SHALL (’94), and Ray SMITH (’94).

intel officer for the 33rd Fighter Wing. Rich has just PCSed and is enjoy¬ ing his new job at DCMC Denver. He spends alot of his free time in the mountains with his wife. Rather impressing update Rich, thanks for your help!

Speaking of Eglin, we now have an anonymous, roving reporter in the fighter Intel world. We’ll call this gentleman...Modo (Quasimodo). He updates us on Rob BALZANO and Dave BOTTOMLEE (both from the 79th FS at Shaw AFB). These two pilots were at Eglin for electronic war¬ fare training. Dave and his son Dakota made the front page of the local paper in Sumter when Dave came home from his last rotation to Saudi because papa (“Rock”) and son (“L’il Rock”) were both wearing flight suits adorned with the 79th patch. Modo also ran into Dave and Jenn RIDDLE. They recently moved to Pensacola so that Dave can enjoy a wonderful year of living and breathing Navy stuff as he enters Joint UPT. Congrats on your slot—show the squids that guys who drive boats can’t necessarily fly.

Mow I’m sure all of our classmates are wondering—who is Modo. Well, all !can do is pass on information. One of our classmates, whose name will 36 referred to as Modo, seemed to be enjoying himself at Nellis AFB/Las Vegas. In his blind enthusiasm for everything connected with the F-15, spotted an F-15 tailhook sticking out of the bar wall. He stupid¬ ly reaches up to touch said object without realizing it is attached to, among other things, arather loud magical bell. The ringer of the bell, of course, is obligated to buy everyone in the bar around of drinks.

Ireceived atiny e-mail from Bill BRYANT in Okinawa who states that he loves F-16s and Scott SHEEHAN is at Okinawa too. Scott does highpowered bioenvironmental CE stuff. Bill enjoys locking up any other fighter as an F-16 driver for the 14th “Fightin’ Samurai.” Also got some electrons from Ken GERM ANN who recently left the 445th Flight Test Squadron. He and Vince “Opus” SEI are engineers who were flight testing T-38s and F-15s. Ken PCSed to Mississippi State for his master’s in aero. Good luck!

Rachel LINNIHAN is suffering through her stay at Pope AFB. She up¬ dates us on Andrea VAN POPPLE (A-10 at Pope), Rob KIEBLER (’92, A-10 at Pope), Lisa PURUL (’95, CE), Samantha MORGAN ,Chris DECOLL, and Mike CROGHAN (’91, C-130). Rachel bumped into Cur¬ tis VELASQUEZ and Jason SCHOTT at the Pope airshow. Curt is an F-15 weapons operator and Jason is an F-15 pilot. Lisa LAU was picked up by the OSI—not as acriminal though, as an agent! Congrats! Mo barret’s tour in Panama is up, and she’s looking forward to being back in the States. While working on Joint Endeavor, Rachel met up with Laura (BARKER) COLLINS and Joe. Laura is doing physical therapist stuff and Joe is in the C-21 unit at Ramstein. Rachel is currently seeking an AFIT scholarship, but is biding her time as ahospital administrator working as an exec for the Air Evac unit. She flies with atactical C-130/C-141 unit at Pope. Thanks for the great letter! Ihad two more let¬ ters from Kevin SUTTON and Dave KEENER, but due to lack of space they will be first in our next article. Thanks for all the holiday inputs and I enjoy hearing from all of you! You make this article the best in Check¬ points! Take care classmates o’ mine—Mike.

C.C. and Trevor Smith

1442 S. Raven Court

Santa Maria, CA 93454

Home: (805) 928-9466

DSN: 276-3653/DSN

Fax: 276-3514

E-mail (Trevor): smitht@det9.vafb.af.mil

Percent members: 75

Happy New Year ’94! Can you believe it’s already 1997? Our class has beentogetheroversixandonehalfyearssofar(since30Jun90)—isthat amazingorwhat?!TrevorandIhavereallyenjoyedallthememoriesand friendships we’ve made with so many of you and wish you all the best. We hopeeachofyouhadawonderfulholidayseasonandhadtheopportuni¬ tytospendtimewithyourlovedones.Westayedhomethisyearandre^ly enjoyed being alone for awhile—we had sixteen people for aformal sitdownThanksgivingdinnerandhadn’treallyhadachancetorecoveruntil Christmas.

Rich and Suzanne’s wedding

Casey and Tom are roommates along with Dave Flynn (a ’93er until after BCT). Tom is pulling every string he has to get aCCT slot, but much to his dismay was non volunteered to Anaheim, CA. Not bad consider¬ ing—say hello to Mickey Mouse for us! Smitty just purchased arather luxurious house on agolf course somewhere in Macon, GA. Rich also met up with Doug CUNNINGHAM at Robins. Craig BLOOD and Debbie (LESMAN) BLOOD have also purchased anice little adobe hut near Macon.

Rich received some info on Chris NISCO. Chris is currently flying C-21s at Langley AFB and enjoys spending quality time with his wife, Rachel, and son Collin. Dave ABEGG enjoys his time at Eglin working as

The number of letters is diminishing, but tbe ones Iget are usually packed with information, so thanks to those who take the time to write. If you haven’t figured out yet, Idon’t write back very often and Iapologize for that! Due to the limited space in most columns (especially ours, since it has atrack record for being the longest), the scribes (like me) will no longerbegettingchange-of-addresscardsunlesspersonalinformationis included on them. Therefore, if you move and you want everyone to know about it, you’ll have to give me acall or write aletter with all the details, okay? Thanks!

Ireceived two letters from Tinker AFB this time: one was from Dave SHOEMAKER (AWACS) in October and the other from Ric HOYT

party.

(also AW ACS). Since the letters mention many of the same people. I’m going to go through Dave’s (the longer one!) and supplement info from Ric’s. When Dave wrote, he had just returned from Turkey’s Operation Provide Comfort, the latest of his many deployments. AW ACKERS, as he termed them, are TDY 150-200 days per year to Saudi, Turkey, Red/Green Flag, and exercises.

WELCOME TO ESKAN VILLAGE

INSTALUTK 0MMANDER:«-r OOl n fi LeBIBLE

He sent this photo of his first Saudi rotation. Pictured back row from left are Nick JAHN (Scott AFB, CE); Shoe; Bo BURICK (’93 Vandenberg, CE); and front: Ric HOYT and J.J. PURDUE (’93, CE). Other ’94 “backenders” at Tinker include Jim JAGODINSKI (upgraded to instructor weapons director), Ethan STANTON, Mike ERICKSON (in instructor upgrade now), Karl ROGERS, Doug PRICE, Chris O’BRIEN, Todd SMITH, Rob BRIMMER, and Felix MONTERO. Pilots include Costas LEONIDOU and Todd TUMADINSKI. Ric adds that Suzette (STENERSON) SEUELL (intel), Maria DONOVAN (protocol), and Scott SPIERS are also at Tinker.

Additionally, Jesse HERNANDEZ and Mark MITCHELL (both Elmendorf) passed through for RTU. While TDY, Dave ran into Steve ANDERSON in Riyadh and Paul ABAIR (F-16 maintenance, Mt Home) in Incirlik.. He was also glad to see his old roomie, John OHM (Barksdale, B-52 maintenance), when John visited last summer. Dave and Sarah and Ric and Michelle (KUIPERS) try to spend time together when they’re all in town. Ric writes that Shelly, his wife since the day after graduation, is only one class away from finishing her MBA, but stays busy as abudget officer in the 3rd Combat Communications Group. They’re happily married despite the fact that Ric is only home about four months of every year: he’s done numerous stateside TDYs and has been deployed to Panama, Turkey, and Saudi. Ric was picked up by the last UPT board and will start training at Vance in September. He and Dave both made the point that many of our classmates have already been out there “Flying the Line” on the ops side of the house for awhile. They have flown in support of Operation Southern Watch in Saudi, Operation Provide Comfort II in Turkey, and in support of counter-drug operations in Panama. While many of our classmates are just finishing training, many others are already avery vital part of contingency operations.

On amore solemn note, Dave also passed on the following about Drew SOPIRAK: “I had the bittersweet honor of speaking at Drew’s memorial service at the Academy. The CS-37 Class of ’96 prepared awonderful ser¬ vice for Drew’s family and friends. The show, of support from Drew’s classmates, coming from all points of the globe, and ’37’s past and pre¬ sent AOCs was touching. I’ve visited the Sopiraks once in Philly since then and write regularly. It’s been hard, but they are avery strong and wonderful family.” Our hearts go out to the Sopiraks and the Mosers and all of Drew and Travis’ family and friends. They will continue to be miss¬ ed by all who knew and loved them.

Brian TOTH wrote from Luke to fill us in on the folks finishing RTU and heading out to fly F-16s. He is heading to Kunsan along with Darren GRAY and Kent HARBAUGH; Dale HETKE and Steve PIEPER are go¬ ing to Osan, Troy LOHMEYER is off to Eielson, Chris SMITH to Hill, John BOSONE to Misawa, and Mitch MIGLIORDI to Moody. Some A-10 drivers headed to Osan are Matt VILLELLA and Chris VANDERSYS. Jason DICKENSON and Dan BUNTOS are heading to Korea as well. Already there (at Kunsan) are Cary CULBERTSON and Brian JACKSON. Brian lives with Darren and Dale and has seen Carolyn FORNER (my old roomie) around working maintenance. In August he attended Matt and Jen JOHNSTON’s wedding and heard that both Mary HARTMAN and Craig ALLEN had received pilot slots.

Ican always count on Kathy CLEVELAND to drop me aline and fill me in on folks. She writes that P.J. PELKINGTON married Toni in Oc¬ tober and that she was able to attend Brad MCDONALD’S wedding to Krista in August. She also wrote that Alicia VALLENI (Edwards) and Rick WAGEMAN are now officially annulled, but that little Warren is doing great. Hopefully Kathy can make it out to see both me and Alicia soon!

The final letter Ireceived was from Marine Lt Chuck MCGREGOR, who is stationed at Camp Pendleton, CA with the 1st Force Recon¬ naissance Company. He has gotten to travel to Haiti, the Middle East, Ireland, and Canada and says that the good thing about being aMarine is you never suffer alone! While he was at Combatant Dive School in Panama City, he called Tyndall and found Jim and Mary Beth WORLEY in the directory. He said every weekend with them felt like the first time we got to go our sponsors’ houses for “Doolie Day Out!” When the O’club at Tyndall was taken over by the Class of ’94 (for our ILt promo¬ tion), he saw so many friendly faces and rekindled memories that he was wiped out—he said it was even agreat party by Marine standards.

Lt and Mrs Chuck McGregor

In August Chuck married Kari at the USAFA Chapel and was glad to have his old roommate, Jim WINNER (L.A. AFB) as agroomsman. Jim’s wife, Mary Pat, is an AF lawyer in L.A. and he attends law school with Lou YEAGER (’93). Ireally enjoyed Chuck’s last paragraph, so I’ll share it with all of you: “Attending football games at UNLVand SDSU has brought me back in touch with many of those classmates I’ve missed. Itake great pride in being agraduate of the Academy—I wondered how long it would take for me to miss it. Apparently not long. Being so separated from my military upbringing at the Academy has only made me miss it more—not forget it.” He goes on to say that, though he often takes humorous jabs from peers and superiors for being aUSAFA grad, they really look on him as anovelty. About 25-40 active-duty Marines are USAFA grads and he has "never heard astory of aUSAFA grad who has not left apositive impression on the unit he was with—seriously.” Chuck also sent his e-mail address so please call me if you’d like to drop him a line!

That’s pretty much it for the letters this time...Things here in sunny California couldn’t be better—or busier! Iwent to Louisiana in November to commission Gerry STEWART (Tinker, EE) and then went to Randolph TDY for two weeks. While at the bowling alley there, Iran into Gill NESS and also saw Keri SCHREIBER on the cover of the base newspaper performing as military ambassador. Ireturned in time for Thanksgiving and was thrilled to have Rick SHEFFE (Edwards) join our crowd for dinner. Unfortunately, the weekend celebration was cut short by atragic active-duty death here on base.

One of the toughest parts of my job is that it includes mortuary affairs and the individual this time had been Trevor’s first sergeant and amentor to us both. It’s still avery gratifying job and Idid get the opportunity to talk with Brock LORBER, who works mortuary down in L.A. Mortuary cases take all of our time and more, so now I’m trying to catch up with the month of work Ibasically missed. Trevor, on the other hand, stays busy with TDYs and soccer—but he’s finally getting paid for the latter. He is the assistant varsity coach at the local high school and is happy to have a winning season thus far. Other than that, he’s still working to get one of the 178 pilot slots that are supposed to be given out at this April’s board. He will be competing for the HQ SMC (Space &Missile Systems Center) Junior CGO of the Year against 23 other CGOs, including Erica STONE GREGORY (L.A.). Another neat thing that happened to him was that he was re-elected as Vandenberg’s CGOC president and was also elected as the Western Region CGOC president (from Colorado westward). That’s about it for us, aside from looking for new jobs since the three-year mark is around the corner.

Desert Sons

Hopefully, he’ll be at UPT and I’ll be at AFIT at University of Houston, but we’ll let you know as soon as the address changes. Best of luck to all of you. Take care and God bless—C.C. and Trevor.

Andrea E. Rolfe

PSC Box 4353

Vance AFB, OK 73705 (405) 242-3894

E-mail: AERolfe@aol.com

Percent members: 65

Ihope your holiday season was filled with joy and the New Year is treating you well! Iam writing this article from Vance still, but by the time it is published Iwill have moved to Tyndall AFB for follow-on train¬ ing. Keep sending your letters to the above address and they will get for¬ warded—or feel free to write to me via e-mail!

Iheard from Kevin WELLS when he was down in Randolph. Unfor¬ tunately, his letter came just in time to not be published in the last Check¬ points—mih athree-month lag from when Iwrite the article until it gets published, news gets old—so Iapologize if this info has since changed! Kevin was with Chris SKORA, Chris MCMARTIN, John PEAK, Rob MASAITIS, Jeremiah MONK, Troy BELIN, and Ryan HILL at UNT in Randolph. Kevin tells me that the Air Force isn’t quite like living on the beach when they started out in Pensacola CNATRA, but they are ad¬ justing well! Kevin also says that Chris MCMARTIN just got engaged, and Dan DEVOE and his wife, Emily (at Kelly AFB), celebrated the birth of their first son in May 1996—congratulations! Rumor also has it that Jason HOUSER (UPT at Sheppard) fi nally got engaged to Terra—although by the time this comes out in print. I’m certain he’ll have already tied the knot...

Jon “Guido” CORY also writes from Warner-Robins AFB, GA where he is happily stationed just an hour or so away from his home. He was TDY in Ft Lee, VA and ran into Meg MONAHAN and Steve TRIBBLE. Then he went to Randolph for arecords review and saw Dana DALLAS and Mike BLACK—Guido says it was “just like aclass reunion, only dif¬ ferent.” Speaking of class reunions—if you want to attend one, just go to the Auger Inn at Randolph on any given Friday night—I was there in December for aweekend when Iran into several ’95 grads. Matt KONVALIN and Jamie LINDMAN are stationed there in SUNT. Jamie just got his assignment and will be in an HC-130. Rob KINERSON was also at the Auger Inn that night—he was on his T-38 cross-country from Colum¬ bus UPT. Rob was doing well at UPT and he called to give me his class’ assignments right after they got them—I hope Igot all these right because he left them on my answering machine! Rob took an F-I6 to Luke AFB along with Derek MILLER, Dave SALISBURY, and Rich MURRAY. Karl ZURBRUGG took aC-21 to Maxwell with aC-130 follow-on. Larry NANCE took aT-37 to Vance with aC-5 follow-on. Harmon LEWIS also took aT-37, with aC-17 follow-on. Rob’s class graduated and received their wings on January 24—congratulations, and again thanks for the update Rob!

Other UPT news from ENJJPT—Joel DIFIDI, Jason MOORE, Dave NYIKOS, Paul SPAVEN, and Matt VANWIEREN all chose F-15Cs to Tyndall AFB; Nate GRABER, Chris JONES, Charles PODOLAK, and Chris TUMILOWICZ chose F-16s to Luke AFB; Mike MATESICK chose an A-10 to Davis-Monthan AFB; and Jon SCHEER chose aB-52 to Barksdale AFB. They graduated on December 13—congrats!

Last UPT news, Ipromise—my class got our assignments as well—Mike THOMPSON, Mike THODE, Brad GLENN, and James THOMPSON (’94) took F-16s to Luke. Cavan CRADDOCK and Itook F-15Cs to Tyndall; Mike MILLER (’94) took aB-52 to Barksdale; Mike MAGUIRE (’92) took aC-141 to McGuire; Steve MCILVANE (’94) and Greg ROBERTSON (’92) took KC-lOs to Travis; John DECKER chose an RC-135 to Offutt; and Don BAKER (’92) chose an E-3 to Kadena.

Ialso got aletter from Rob ROSSI who is at Pope AFB as an SP—he fi lled me in with the latest SP info. Matt LOWE and Rob fi nished SP Of¬ ficer’s Basic Course together and have since split up—Matt went on to Malmstrom AFB, MT. They graduated from Lackland/Camp Bullis in Dec. 95 and were looking forward to seeing each other in Bosnia—but Rob tells me he got lucky on that one and his unit got stood down just as quickly as it was stood up to go—although he also keeps volunteering for everything that comes up so he can be anywhere but Pope—now that sounds like the Rob Iknow! Rob also tells me he was in the same SP class as Chris SUNSERI (’94), who is now also at Malmstrom with Matt. Rob

SEND US YOUR NEW ADDRESS NOW. GET AFRIEND TO JOIN THE AOG!

The Slocums: Karen, Jason and Jason, Jr. got to deploy to Shaihk Isa Air Base, Bahrain, in support of Initial Link ’96, where he got to work with the Navy, the Kuwaitis, and the UAE. He then returned to Pope to prepare for an ORI—he’s aflight commander for a44-man Air Base Defense flight. They received an overall rating of excellent so Rob must be doing something right! Rob also tells me that Kevin PRICE is at Fort Hood, TX as amechanized (Bradley) infantry platoon leader. Kevin wrote Rob from Kuwait, where his unit was deployed when Sadaam started to act up again.

Rob also wrote that Chris THOMPSON is amaintenance of fi cer at Pope, Brian MCCLANAHAN, Paul BAAKE, and Lisa PURUL are all CE officers at Pope; Steve MANN (’94) is also an SP at Pope, and Brian WATKINS is in the 23rd Trans Squadron. Dave NORTON is in CE at Kelly AFB and expects to do atour in the desert this year, and Gordon HUNTER is at Minot, but temporarily deployed to the desert as well. Thanks for the info Rob, and I’m sure I’ll get my next letter from you from some remote country!

Ialso heard from Teri HEITMEYER, who is working at Randolph at the occupational measurement squadron as ajob analyst. She is working right now on her master’s in psychology, with an emphasis in human fac¬ tors engineering. She’s also lived with Missy HYLAND until Missy got married to Mike MAY last September and is now living with Karla RUDERT. Kris (VANDERBERG) GOODMAN and her husband, Steve, are at Kelly across town and are busy training for atriathalon in Italy soon! She’s heard from Rolf LUNDMARK who is in Los Angeles, and Lincoln HILL who is now married to Kristin Stoudt (ex-Olympic trial swimmer! Just ask Line to tell you the story of when Kristin met Troy Aikman at UCLA!). Tami PRASSE is in Intel school at Goodfellow after her year coaching at the Academy, and Chris FITZPATRICK (USMC) is now in Japan for ayear-long tour and is awaiting his Harley when he gets back to the U.S.! Todd SCHERM and Tanja HAUBER finally got mar¬ ried in September at Fort Collins (congrats!), and Chad MEYERING, Matt BARCHIE, and Jason PALMA are all succeeding at Pensacola. Jason WIERZBANOWSKI, Lee ROSKOP, and Mark PIPER are all do¬ ing well at Del Rio. Thanks Teri, for your update—and good luck with your new job.

Other news: Barrett MCCANN wrote to let me know that he fi nished his master’s in aerospace engineering! Barrett and his wife, Suzann, are now stationed at Eglin AFB, FL...Karen (HANCHETT) SLOCUM wrote with news that she was selected for Space and is now stationed at Falcon AFB flying satellites! Her baby, Jason Jr., will be ayear old this April! I ran into Andrea (KERKMAN) MILLER this past Thanksgiving at Vance—she and her brothers got together to celebrate the holidays in Oklahoma because it was the most central location. She is doing well and is happily married to Mike MILLER (’94) at McGuire AFB...and lastly, my roommate from the Academy, Kimberly BETTS, sent me an engage¬ ment announcement for her Aug. 97 wedding to Victor MONCRIEFFE (’94)_Kim, didn’t Ialways tell you that you guys would get married? Congratulations to you all—send pictures for the next submission!

More news: Mike SNODGRASS wrote from Pensacola, FL where he is wrapping up flying T-34s with the Navy—he wrote to tell me about pilot training and his wedding last year! Mike and Alison were married last April and Jason BAILEY, Jason DECKER, and Scott SHACKLETT were all in attendance as groomsmen. Mike hopes to go to Vance to fly T-38s but was undecided at the time of letter writing. He told me that Dave ABBA will be joining Jason SMITH, Joe LOCKE, and Mike CAR¬ DOZA (’92) in the March T-38 class at Vance. Mike is in VT-3 with Jason ANDERSON, Shawn LANE (’96), Joe HOWARD (’96), and Mike MCDERMOTT (’96). Mike says it is like areunion in Florida and they

are doing their best to teach the Navy how to fly and specifically, land!

Amanda (STEFFEY) FINNERTY wrote about her AFSC change—she is now in the OSI Academy until April. Her husband, Chris FINNERTY (’92) is going to the Pavehawk (HH-60) in June. They are moving to Holloman and will finally be together again in September.

Flying news: Jennifer ROLLINS received her assignment and is headed to Dyess for B-1 EWO training! Awesome, Jenn! Kevin HUEBERT wrote with alist of nav/EWO “wingings” and their assignments: Phil ACQUARO will be an RC-135 EWO at Offutt, Rick ARMSTRONG and Todd SCHERM will be B-52 navs at Barksdale, Bill KUYKENDALL, Chad FAGER, and Cheryl LAMOUREUX will be B-52 EWOs at Barksdale. Todd BOLINGER will be aB-1 WSO at Dyess, Kevin HUEBERT got an AC-130 to Hurlburt along with John TRUBE and Bill TOLMAN, and John BLACKMON will be an MC-130 EWO at Kadena. Congrats to all!

The next deadline for my submission is March 20—write me or e-mail me and Ipromise I’ll get it in there! Until then, take care and God Bless... Andrea.

Melissa Davidson

9712 Hidden Valley Road Vienna, VA 22181-6094

Phone: (703) 255-5313

Percent members: 57

Greetings from Keesler AFB, MS! I’m going through basic com¬ munications officer training down here in Biloxi. Surprisingly, Ihave six other grads in my class. Among them are Tom MCBRIDE, Bob OLSON, Teri ALLEN, John GERST, Darin LADD, and Kris HORTON.

Tom and Bob are roommates at Scott AFB, IL. Tom is aprogram manager for AMC 375th CPSS. Bob is the program manager for the Base Network Control Center part time and afrequent personality on the golf course for the rest of the time.

Darin LADD is at Patrick AFB, FL. He is working for HQ AFTAC/LS (Logistics &Systems). He is enjoying the surrounding beaches and will be getting married to Misti Melick in Longmont, CO during June 1997.

John GERST is at McGuire AFB, NJ. He is working for HQ 21 AF SCM as the OIC. He was married on 22 June 96 to Kim Krett. John works down the hall from Vernon FLETCHER. Vernon works for the Network Security 305th Comm Squad and works part time at alocal sports bar.

Kris HORTON is stationed at Barksdale AFB, LA working for 608th ACC. He broke his ankle over summer leave and ended up getting an ad¬ ditional three weeks of convalescent leave. He was on two weeks of actual active duty before reporting to BCOT.

Finally, Teri ALLEN is stationed at Cheyenne Mountain Systems Center as acrew commander. She is engaged to Pat Williams (Class of ’98) and they will be getting married during the summer of 1998.

There are more grads here in different classes at BCOT. Javier IBARRA is stationed at Tinker AFB, OK as aprogram manager. Bob KELLY and Rob SIMPSON are also at Tinker AFB working with the 3rd Herd Combat Communications Squadron. James RADFORD is with a tactical communications squadron at Davis-Monthan. He is still trying to put apackage together for Special Ops and is still looking forward to get¬ ting out in five years and making more money. Randy TANKERSLEY is here and has still managed to find time to play rugby. Erik SHAW “SHOEDOG” had only one comment for me “28 May 2001—The Day we are Finally Free!”

Italked to Melissa BAUMANN at Laughlin AFB, TX. Her class has finished ground training and is receiving their first flights. Lori EDINGER and Shawn ANGER are also in her class and doing well.

Abunch of people had their nav and UPT dates moved up and are already in Pensacola. Among them are Tracy HEALY, Jacob MCMANUS, Brett RAYWALD, Ken BOILLOT, Jeremy BRIGHAM, Ryan LOGAN, and Mike DEMOTE.

Melissa WAINWRIGHT is still at the Academy working with the women’s soccer team. She and Bob BRYANT were engaged over the Thanksgiving holiday. She will be moving to Langley AFB, VA in January. She and Bob are planning their wedding for April in Albuquer¬ que, NM when Bob has abreak in training at Vance AFB.

1talked to Eric COYNE two weeks ago. Who would have ever thought he would be the Honor Guard commander. 1had to have apicture for proof. Big news—he and Tracy DUPREE were engaged over the Christmas holidays and will be getting married on the 15th of March at the Academy Chapel. He is going through MWR training at Wright-Pat AFB, OH. Kera PARKS (FONTENOT) is also in his class. She is stationed at Laughlin AFB, TX with Morris FONTENOT. Penny BROOKS is

Eric Coyne sports his Honor Guard service dress. working in the comm squad at Wright-Pat, and Barb BRENNON is there as well.

1heard from Mike CASEY. He is taking the good oT free ride on Uncle Sam by getting his master’s degree. 1know Shaka WALKER should be at Georgetown University going through medical school, but Ihaven’t heard from him yet. Kyle BOECKMAN is cashing in on asimilar deal at the University of Illinois. Tom STAMP is going through med school at Dart¬ mouth, and Chad HUGGINS is at the University of Oklahoma. Kevin SILKNITTER was married over leave and is attending the University of Arizona.

Iwent down to Ft Walton Beach, FL and partied with some friends sta¬ tioned at Eglin AFB, FL. Matt WEISSART is working there in Systems Acquisitions. Jasin COOLEY is there with the SP unit. Eddie MEIDUNAS is there as well.

We do have news from our foreign friends. Jussi HANNULA is work¬ ing for the Finnish government doing information warfare. Peter BLAZEUSZ is working with an army detachment. He’s having agood time doing all that HU AH stuff. Speaking of HUAH, afriend from West Point said they saw Tim MORRIS at Ft. Banning, GA getting ready for infantry school.

Now for random gossip. Paul DZUBNAR is headed for the big Sand¬ box for three months, but has to leave behind his new love. Rumor has it that Paul is off the market for good. Potential wedding bells may be in order for Deonte DAY and Serena MOSLEY. Iheard that Tom DAVIS got sent to Panama for his casual status before heading to UPT. Nat CHINE supposedly traded in his truck for aCorvette. Finally, Markus PRINCE is looking for agood insurance company. You can ask him for the sorrowful tale.

Well that’s all the news for now. Please keep the letters and phone calls coming. Good luck in the New Year! Harley.

Rob Tomlin, at left, and Tom McBride at Matt Weissert’s Halloween party.

Don’t Wait Until the Eleventh Hour!

AnIndividualRetirementAccount(IRA)isagreatwaytosaveforyourretirement.Evenifyou’reunabletotakeanincome taxdeduction,youcanstillearntax-deferredincomethatcansupplementretirementincome,SocialSecurity or pension plan benefits.

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