Checkpoints June 2001

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From The BOARD

66 With June week around the corner, a hearty congratulations to members of the Class of 2001...”

Dear Fellow Graduates,

With June Week just around the comer, hearty congratulations to members of the Class of 2001 as they prepare for graduation and the gold bars of a 2nd Lieutenant in the world’s greatest Air Force! And yes, I know, a few have chosen to serve in a sister service and others are returning to their home country to serve—and I wish each of them much success as well.

I also want to express my sincere thanks to seven AOG Board members who will complete their term in July. These dedicated folks have served our association with distinction and have devoted countless hours working to move our organization forward. Special thanks to: Col (Ret) A1 Blumberg, ’68; Col (Ret) Joe Burke, ’70; Capt Mike Casey, ’96; Capt (Ret) Danielle Hargrove, ’85; Mr. Rod Jones, ’71; Col (Ret) John Kelly, ’65; and Mr. Brian Zawikowski, ’89. In case you’re wondering why so many folks are leaving the board, it’s due to downsizing from 18 to 14 members and to becoming a more conventional policy-oriented board, as opposed to a “hands-on” operational board. We now have an AOG staffof sufficient size and experience to do the day-to-day “hands-on” work.

You will note in this issue on pages 18 and 19 that Chiefof Staff, General Michael E. Ryan was the keynote speaker for the Founders’ Day dinner at Doolittle Hall, jointly sponsored by the Academy, AOG and the Rampart Chapter. As most of you know, Founders’ Day is celebrated annually at the Academy and at several of our local AOG chapters around the country. It recognizes the date in 1954 (1 April) when President Eisenhower signed legislation authorizing the Air Force Academy. I would add that beginning next year, Founders’ Day activities

will be expanded to include recognizing our Jabara Award winner and presenting our recently established Distinguished Graduate Award. We hope to make this both a day ofremembering our past and of recognizing the outstanding contributions of our graduates.

Another big event coming up 28 June is In-Processing for the Class of 2005. As has been the case since 1994, InProcessing will be held at Doolittle Hall. I encourage grads to stop by and see this first-class operation hosted by the AOG staff and the local Rampart Chapter.

I’m delighted and proud ofthe outstanding success of the Sabre Society. With membership exceeding 700 and continuing to grow, we are seeing a great outpouring of support for the cadets, the Academy, and our AOG. The benefits are significant and long-lasting. Thanks to all who have joined and encouragement to those who are still undecided. Believe me, it’s a very worthwhile commitment.

Finally, I would ask that the 17,000-plus members of our AOG reach out to the 16,000 of our non-member graduates and encourage them to join. All classes have non-members. In classes ’72—’92 over half of our graduates are non-members. We can, and should, do better. I think the AOG offers a lot ofmember benefits for a very reasonable annual/life membership fee. And I can’t help but believe that the sense ofloyalty and pride that every graduate of our great Academy shares, is best served through an AOG membership.

Have a great summer.

Very Respectfully,

Lt Gen (Ret) Marcus A. Anderson Board Chair

Col. Susan Helms, ‘80, and Lt. Col. James Kelly, ‘86, played integral roles in the most recent space mission to the International Space Station.

for

Andi Biancur, ‘60, establishes a $150,000 Charitable Trust and refleets about his feelings on the AOG and the Academy.

Air Force edges the competition to win its first-ever team title in the finals of the U.S. Gymnastics Collegiate National Championships.

Keeping it in perspective: A few words for the Class of2001 and anyone else who cares to listen from 2nd Lt. Jeremy Eggers.

Marcus

Board

WilliamW.

James

Secretary

JohnT.

President

James

GaryS.

Charles

Richard

Richard

CHECKPOINTS (ISSN 0274-7391) USPS 898-080 is publishedquarterly in March, June,

and December by the Association of Graduates, U.S.

Force Academy. (Phone: 719-472-0300, DSN: 333-2067. FAX: 719-333-4194, E-mail: aog@aog-usafa.org.)

It is provided as part of a membership package ofwhich the magazine subscription annually accounts for $10. Single copies ofCHECKPOINTS for members $2.50. Periodicals postagepaid at the U.S. Air ForceAcademy, CO and additional mailing offices.

POSTMASTER: Send change ofaddress to CHECKPOINTS,Association ofGraduates, Doolittle Hall, 3116 AcademyDr., USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475.

Opinionsexpressedin this magazine are thoseofthe authors. Theydo not necessarily reflectthe opinions, policy or attitude oftheAssociationofGraduates, its officers or the editorial staff. The appearance of advertisements in this publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Association ofGraduates ofthe products or services advertised. Copyright,AssociationofGraduates ofthe U.S.Air ForceAcademy, June 2001.

Integrity First

Reflectiond of a Military Philosopher

By Malham M. Wakin

“Thuifuie collection puts [Wakins] lifetime ofinsightful andpersuasive work iti one place. No one interested in issues ofprofessionalmilitary ethics shoutd be without this book.

—J. Carl Ficarrotta, U.S. Air Force Academy

'Integrity First is a thoughtful work by an officer who both preaches andpractices the military virtues. It is recommended readingfor all officers—especially those who are a bitjaded. It is also recommendedfor anyone else both in and outside the military who is concerned about ethicalstandards as they might or might not befound in that often misunderstood institution.

—Nicholas G. Fotion, Emoiy University

Brigadier General Malham M. Walkin, head of the philosophy department at the U.S. Air Force Academy for over thirty years, is one of the most esteemed military ethicists in the United States. This collection of essays—the first to be published together in a single volume—will be essential reading for anyone interested in the field of applied and theoretical ethics. Covering such diverse issues as war and morality, legal ethics, medical ethics, business ethics, conflict mediation, pacifism, just war theory, religion and war, and nuclear deterrance, Integrity First includes work that not only treats issues of longstanding historical significance, but also has relevance to any serious discussion of modern justice.

Integrity First

Reflections of a Military Philosopher

Malham M. Wakin

2000, 208 pages 0-7391-0170-6

$60.00 cloth

letter to the

By Kirk A. Yost, Lt. Col. ‘80

Every decade or so, something appears in CHECKPOINTS that induces me to respond. In this case, it was the letter provided by John J. Gallagher (’70).

A similar letter appeared in CHECKPOINTS shortly after I graduated. It too was written by an older graduate working for the Air Force as a civilian, and it was much more blunt. I distinctly remember that this individual claimed that recent graduates he saw were “indistinguishable from the herd” and lacked the qualities that set apart his contemporaries.

I thought about responding to this letter, but I didn’t for two reasons. First, I was a brand new lieutenant, and I wanted to keep a low profile for a least a little while. Second, I felt the author had done such a good job ofinsulting graduates ofall the other commissioning sources (which at that time, had produced every general officer in the history ofthe Air Force) that refutation from me was unnecessary.

If there is one historical constant, it is that service academy staffs will always have to deal with disaffected alumni. When Douglas MacArthur was P \ the superintendent ofWest Point, he often spoke of having to contend with

^ the DOGs (Disgruntled Old Graduates). I also personally attended a lecture by Vice Adm. James Stockdale, a hero by every measure, who explained that he only ran the Citadel for a year because, after receiving so much torture from professionals, he saw no reason to volunteer for more from amateurs (the Citadel graduate community).

I have a recommendation for dissatisfied graduates who feel compelled to write such a letter. Go ahead and write it. Instead ofsending it to CHECKPOINTS, send it to your contemporaries who are still on active duty or are senior decision makers in the Department of Defense. Ask them why they have allowed such things to occur. I’m sure the answers will be most enlightening.

“As for me, I am not distressed about the casualness of recent graduates...they (and their contemporaries) deploy and fly combat everyday, and have racked up a pretty impressive record.”

As for me, I am not distressed about the “casualness” of recent graduates, nor have any of them burst into my office to demand to be called by their first names. They (and their contemporaries) deploy and fly combat every day, and have racked up a pretty impressive record. They have little tolerance of lousy management practices and know their options in life, but I view those as strengths. As for cell phone use - well, this isjust not something that worries me.

In closing, I find it interesting that Mr. Gallagher singles out for praise the Marine Corps, the only branch of the service that does not have a dedicated academy.

Respectfully,

Lt.Col. Kirk A. Yost, Class of 1980

Flashback

DUSTY NUTS A-

s I read my fall copy of Checkpoints I was saddened by reading obits of friends who had passed away, then inspired by articles about the innovations transpiring at USAFA When I came across the article about how tough Gal. Simons had it way back in the ‘70s, I recalled something that happened back when it was really, really tough.

It was the summer of 1957 when USAFA’s third graduating class entered at Lowry AFB in Denver. On Lowry II, that part of the base where the infant Air Force Academy was located until the permanent site was ready for occupancy, we lived in old wooden barracks held together secured by gigantic nuts. During doolie summer, (doolie being a portmanteau word for dumb willie) I had the privilege of occupying a room where two of those bolts secured the building. The nuts on the inside of the building were painted the same color as the room and were barely noticeable to the untrained eye. In those days, a cadre of highly trained officers acted as upperclassmen until the Academy had four classes and there was a bonafide upper class. One Saturday morning during a SAMI (short for Saturday Morning Inspection) an ATO, (short for Air Training Officer) who must have been afflicted with OCD, (short for Obsessive Compulsive Disorder) was having trouble finding anything for which to gig me. I stood at attention, watching him out of the corner of my eye, as he looked and looked for something so he could write me up. At last he was successful. “Aha,” he announced as he swept his whitegloved hand over the nuts on the wall. “Damn,” I thought, “I forgot to dust there!”

The following Monday, on the demerit list, my name stood out with a distinction quite singular. On the list was an entry that read: “Heriza, R.L., 2 demerits—Dusty Nuts.”

£091 By Robert Heriza, ‘61

TATO RECALLS PARADE

he presidential inauguration brings back fond memories for retired Lt. Col. Charles F. Emmons. He led the first Academy formation to take part in an inauguration parade, Jan. 21, 1957, for the second term of President Dwight D. Eisenhower.

The entire cadet wing, only two classes at the time, marched in the parade.

Active duty first and second lieutenants, serving as upperclassmen for the first three Academy classes, filled out the ranks. Emmons was one of 134 Air Training Officers (ATO). As the cadet wing commander, he led the formation in the inauguration parade.

“Knowing that it was the first time the Air Force Academy participated in the presidential inaugural parade was thrilling. Even though the ATOs were not bona fide cadets, it was a unique experience,” Emmons said.

Eleven C-124 Globemaster IIs flew a handful ofcadets and officers to Washington. The Air Force used several airlifters to prevent an accident from wiping out the entire Academy cadet wing, Emmons said.

“They called us ‘Lowry Pioneers’ all ofthe staff that worked with the first three classes. In hundreds of different ways the staff contributed to many of the traditions that are still part of cadet life today because we were acting as cadets in the junior and senior capacities,” Emmons said. “The first classes consider the air training officers their mentors. It was our job to set the example.”

Emmons recalls the inauguration parade march was seven miles long and physically demanding. He now lives in Monument, Colo., and has some advice for cadets who march in future Inauguration Parades.

“Enjoy it and appreciate the significance.”

By 2nd Lt. Angela Arredondo

Heather Wilson named to the Board Of Visitors

■ new board of visitor

The first Academy graduate in Congress, Rep. Heather Wilson of New Mexico, has been appointed to serve on the Academy’s Board ofVisitors. The Board of Visitors inquires into the morale, discipline, curriculum, instruction, physical equipment, fiscal affairs, academic methods, and other matters relating to the Academy.

“I am honored to have been chosen to serve on the Board of Visitors,” said Wilson. “The Academy shapes the leadership of tomorrow’s Air Force and I look forward to helping to make sure we meet the challenge.”

The Board ofVisitors has 15 members. The President of the United States appoints six members. The other nine board members are from either the Senate or House of Representatives. Presidential appointees are designated for a period of three years. Each of the additional nine board members serves a minimum term of one year.

A distinguished graduate of the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1982, the Congresswoman was a Rhodes Scholar and earned her master’s and doctoral degrees in international relations from Oxford University in England. The class of 1982 was the third class with women at the Academy.

While at the Academy, Wilson commanded Basic Cadet Training in Jack’s Valley and was Vice Wing Commander. Wilson is the only woman veteran in American history to have served in the U.S. Congress.

As an Air Force officer she worked with our NATO allies and in the United Kingdom. After leaving the Air Force in 1989, she became Director for European Defense Policy and Arms Control on the National Security Council staff at the White House.

Wilson serves on the House Armed Services Committee and the House Commerce Committee. The congresswoman was first elected to serve the citizens of New Mexico’s First Congressional District in a special election on June 23, 1998. She was re-elected to her second full term on November 7, 2000. ■

“I am honored to have been chosen to serve on the board ...The Academy shapes the leadership oftomorrow’s Air Force and I lookforward to helping to make sure we meet the challenge.

Representative Heather Wilson

insights

by Brig. Gen. Mark A. Welsh III, ‘76, Commandant of Cadets

Howdy! I hope that 2001 is proving to be a great year for all of you, and that you are having as much fun as we are here at USAFA! The academic year is crankin’ right along and the cadets are doing a great job as we try to give them more and more decision-making authority in the day-to-day operations of the Cadet Wing. The Class of 2001 (hard to believe, isn’t it?!) is ready to do the “rear mirror” thing and get on to the great careers they have in front ofthem in the Air Force. Those ofyou who will lead/supervise/train ‘em in the near future will be impressed; they’re great young folks and will bring a ton of talent and enthusiasm to the fight.

Allow me to bring you up to speed on a couple of things that have been going at our Academy. You’ve heard of some, but probably not all of them. Wish they were all good news stories...but since they’re not, let’s start with the ugly stuff.

|

Substance Abuse

At the top of the list are the drug incidents that have been in the news for the past couple of months. We became aware of cadet involvement with illegal substances during September and October of last year. The good news is that the problem first came to light when cadets reported substance abuse by other cadets. We had another group of cadets self-admit and a couple more were identified through the random urinalysis program. Our problem is clearly a reflection of a much bigger problem in many of our

nation’s high schools and colleges. The use of “club drugs” such as ecstasy, ketamine, blue nitro, and LSD is on the rise. While our problem is very small compared to other schools, substance abuse at any level can never be tolerated at the Air Force Academy. We are doing everything in our power to identify everyone using illegal substances, or abusing legal ones. At this writing, approximately one percent of the cadet wing has been interviewed by Security Forces investigators or the OSI. Two cadets have already been convicted by Court Martial and sent to the Military Disciplinary Barracks at Ft Leavenworth for distribution and/or use of illegal drugs. Two other cadets received Article 15s and General Discharges (under Other Than Honorable Conditions). Five other cadets have had charges preferred and are awaiting courts. We expect that UCMJ action will be taken against five additional cadets once investigations are completed. Twenty-five cadets have been severely punished under the cadet disciplinary system for not reporting the use of illegal substances, even though they were not involved in that use themselves. We think we are nearing the end of this process and have identified all the cadets involved.

As you can imagine, there’s been some turmoil associated with all this.. .and there should be! Even one cadet doing these things is unacceptable, and all of us need to do everything humanly possible to ensure each and every cadet, and cadet candidate, fully understands that drug use and substance abuse WILL NOT and CANNOT be tolerated, by anyone at USAFA, especially the other members of the Cadet Wing. Rest assured that 99 percent of the Cadet Wing already understands that. They were as shocked as we were

“Even one cadet doing these things is unacceptable, and all of us need to do everything humanly possible to ensure each and every cadet, and cadet candidate, fully understands that drug use and substance abuse WILL NOT and CANNOT be tolerated...”

Inauguration

when all this came to light. Part of our reemphasis has been adjustments to our random urinalysis program that improve deterrence, and detection, of ecstasy use. Ecstasy is the current “cool” drug of the high school and college crowd and is only detectable for a limited time with our current testing procedure. We are also looking at new testing processes (e.g., hair testing vice urinalysis) that may allow us to simplify our testing program while yielding better results. Lots of study/work to be done in that area; we’ll update you during your next reunion weekend.

Alcohol also remains a problem area - as it has been for many, many years here. To try ,and meet both these issues head on, we’ve kicked off a new alcohol and drug education program. This innovative program focuses on trying to help cadets make positive choices about their own drinking as well as helping them prevent alcohol and substance-related problems for themselves and their classmates. Rather than taking a short-term reactive focus, we’ve dedicated a member of the Center for Character Development to develop and assess a long-term plan. This approach provides a single program director the authority to implement a proactive approach to alcohol and drug education across USAFA mission elements. The goal is to have a positive impact on cadet social norms using a peer-based strategy. Sounds a little “fuzzy,” I know, but I think it’s got a chance of success...and doing nothing is simply not an option. This program is more than just telling cadets not to drink or abuse drugs. It’s about giving them the information they need to make the right choices and right decisions for themselves and to take care of each other. It’s about being responsible—to self, to others, to regulations, and to our laws. Sometimes we all forget that the great majority of our cadets don’t binge drink, use drugs, or abuse legal substances. We’re going to try and make them the foot soldiers in this battle. Wish us luck.

On a much happier note...

On 20 January 2001, a formation of 83 cadets represented the Academy in the 54th Presidential Inauguration Parade. The contingent was composed of 24 cadets from Cadet Squadron 33, the Outstanding Squadron for 19992000, as well as several cadets from each of the other 35 cadet squadrons. Cadets from the other squadrons were chosen on a merit basis. This was the twelfth time a formation of cadets marched down Pennsylvania Avenue to salute a newly inaugurated president. C/Lt Col Eric Hendrickson, CS-33’s Squadron Commander, did a superb job leading the contingent during the parade and throughout the early morning practices leading up to the deployment. The cadets struck a blow at our perceived “terrazzo gap” when they asked to conduct their parade practices at 0545 each morning in order to include cadet aviators and intercollegiate athletes selected to participate in the inaugural parade. We were awfully proud to send these great representatives to Washington, D.C. for a once-in-a-lifetime experience and got rave reviews on their conduct and performance from officials running the inaugural activities. (See story on page 39.) peaking of the “terrazzo gap,” I get lots of questions about performance/treatment of intercollegiate vs. non-intercollegiate cadets.

To give you a little different perspective than most of my callers have on this issue, I asked the Training Group to give me some examples of leaders on intercollegiate teams who exhibit the same great leadership up on the Hill. Here’s what they sent me:

- C/Lt Col Scotty McKay is one of many cadets who excel militarily in the Cadet Wing and athletically on an intercollegiate team. He’s been on the Commandant’s List five times and held key cadet leadership positions such as Squadron First Sgt. Group Training NCO and, currently, Squadron Commander of CS-01.

COMMANDANT’S CORNER

His accomplishments on the football field are impressive:

1999 Team MVP, 1999 Team MV Back, and only the third running back in Academy history to rush for over 1000 yards in his career. He also holds the school record for most touchdowns in bowl games. Not surprisingly, he’s made the Athletic Director’s List every semester. He’s also made the Superintendent’s list three times, so obviously he excels academically and militarily, too! Right now every indication is that he’ll finish his last semester on the Superintendent’s list and graduate with over a 3.0 cumulative GPA, MPA, and PEA. An impressive feat...and an impressive young man!

- C/Col Scott Becker has also been able to find a balance between academics, athletics, military duty, and community involvement. While at the Academy, he’s earned a 3.8 GPA in Civil Engineering while playing fullback for the Falcon football team. On the field, his leadership and hard work earned him a coveted scholarship from the College Football Hall of Fame. In the Cadet Wing, he is currently the 2nd Group Commander, responsible for over 1000 cadets. He is also active in the Fellowship of Christian Athletes and coaches a youth soccer team in Colorado Springs.

- C/ILt Mike Thiessen is a devoted officer candidate and athlete at USAFA. Mike demonstrated his military leadership during his Firstie year as 2nd BCT Commander, leading a staff of over 500 cadets and 1300 Basics. 2nd BCT was highly successful, and Mike gained valuable leadership experience that he applied as an Element Leader during both semesters this year.

Mike spends a large amount of his time as a twosport athlete. He was the Mountain West Conference (MWC) Offensive Player of the Year in Football and led the Falcons to a bowl victory against Fresno State. The Colorado Sports Hall of Fame named him their Collegiate Athlete of the Year. He was a ThirdTeam Baseball All-American last year and led the MWC in hitting. Mike was named a preseason Baseball All-American this year and is currently in the middle of another great season. Mike is also President of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes’ Special Programs in Religious Education (SPIRE). Mike has proven himself in all areas of the Academy experience. He recently opted to pass up on coaching football at USAFA next year in order to start pilot training at an earlier date and get out into the operational Air Force as soon as possible.

here are many, many more examples I could offer. When you hear a horror story about an intercollegiate athlete getting preferential treatment, do me a favor and please make sure you’ve got all the facts before you repeat the story (I’d be glad to help there). We have too many outstanding young men and women working hard to excel in all areas of Academy life to simply lump them all into just “intercollegiate” and “non-intercollegiate” pots. I prefer to break the Cadet Wing down into “Superstars” and “The other five percent!”

■ Airfield/Airmanship

Lots of great stuff going on down at the airfield as well...

ur 34th Operations Support Squadron and the civil engineers from the 10th Air Base Wing have been busyjustifying, procuring and spending $3M on reconstruction ofall aprons, taxiways and runways on the Academy airfield. We recently completed construction of a new 42,000-square-foot sailplane hangar worth $3.2 million. A new, state-of-the-art control tower is programmed as the #1 Military Construction (MILCON) project for the entire Academy. We continue to support unbelievably successful flying/jump programs with the best airfield management team in the Air Force. Come see us; we’d love to show you the changes!

One ofthe most exciting initiatives in the history of USAFA airmanship programs is taking shape as I write. For the past 18 months, members ofthe 94th Flying Training Squadron and the 34th Operations Group have been pursuing a complete replacement of all USAFA sailplanes and motorgliders to give us an even better and safer soaring program. While the replacement of our USAFA “Warbirds” will bring a tear to the eye of those who left the nest for their first flights in these historic aircraft, the advantages offered to our cadets by a new fleet are too great to ignore. The Air Staffrecently validated USAFA’s first Operational Requirements Document (ORD). The ORD details what we’re looking for in our new aircraft and we’re at the merge in the fight for funding. As with all military procurements, the timing of a replacement purchase of 40 sailplanes and motorgliders, at a cost of about $4 million, is yet to be determined, but could happen anytime in the next two years. This should allow us to train our cadets in even safer, more reliable aircraft, and offer every cadet a better opportunity to complete our Soar-for-All program and solo a USAF aircraft for the very first time. Additionally, cadets who choose to represent USAFA by qualifying to become one of our soaring competition pilots will have a far greater chance for success than we are able to provide them today. We think the extra degree ofmotivation that an initiative like this brings to the Cadet Wing will have a direct impact on the motivation of those same cadets to serve as career pilots in our Air Force. I believe the potential return on investment in that area alonejustifies the cost ofthe program. We’re getting great support from the Air Staff on this initiative and we’re keeping our fingers crossed that it happens sooner, rather than later.

“THIS SPRING BREAK

22 cadets chose to give up Cancun, South Padre Island, Daytona Beach... to help the less fortunate in our country.”

| Character Development

ne of our three Air Force core values is “Service before Self.” Many members of the Cadet Wing regularly promote this value through community service. This Spring Break, 22 cadets chose to give up Cancun, South Padre Island, Daytona Beach or a visit home to help the less fortunate in our country. Our

USAFA Alternative Spring Break Program (ASB) is dedicated to helping people in their time of need, while at the same time giving our cadets an opportunity to participate in an activity that would be hard to arrange on their own. Although there is guidance from an accompanying Academy officer-in-charge, cadets use their own leadership and teamwork skills to accomplish the ASB goals, from the planning process to the actual spring break event. During Spring Break 2001 cadets went to:

- The Shiprock, New Mexico, Home for Women and Children. This home shelters victims of domestic violence and provides domestic violence education. Cadet volunteers worked in the shelter in varying capacities. The shelter is in a Navajo community, and the week included involvement in Navajo cultural activities.

- Boys and Girls Clubs in Denver, CO. Here the cadets worked with Club members aged 6-18 in a number of education and technology programs, athletic leagues, and at their social recreation center.

- Eagle Mount in Great Falls, MT. Cadets helped with programs that challenge people with disabilities. The programs included horseback riding, skiing, swimming, hiking, rafting and a children’s day camp. Each program had a common goal ofincreasing the disabled participant’s self-confidence and self-awareness.

Our three cadet teams started planning and coordinating their activity last fall. And every cadet participant paid his/her own way. To a person, they’ll say it was a phenomenal experience. They’re already starting to plan for next year...and their stories have many others wanting to join the effort. One ofthe things that never ceases to amaze me about the Cadet Wing is its capacity for noble behavior; this isjust another example.

he United States Air Force Academy’s Malham M. Wakin Character Development Award is a formal way to recognize significant acts that are consistent with the Academy definition of character and Air Force Core Values. The award honors Brigadier General Malham M. Wakin, USAF, Retired, whose 40 years ofleadership, teaching, and mentoring USAF Academy cadets, faculty, and staff embody the very ideal of character development. The award is presented during the National Character and Leadership Symposium each spring, and is given to

■ COMMANDANT’S CONT.

graduates, cadets, or personnel assigned to the Academy who have made significant contributions to cadet character development. Past recipients include: Lt. Gen. Bradley C. Hosmer, USAF (Ret), former USAFA Superintendent; the Academy’s Department ofChemistry; Brig Gen. Ruben A. Cubero, USAF (Ret), former Dean ofFaculty; and the USAFA Preparatory School’s Center for Character Development. This year’s recipient is Cadet Firstclass Catherine Adams ofCadet Squadron 26. This great young professional devotes an incredible amount oftime to making life better and more fun for people who aren’t as lucky as we are. She’s a very special young lady and will be a sensational officer and leader in our Air Force. And she’s absolutely deserving ofthis prestigious award.

Well, enough from me. If you get out to the ‘ol stomping grounds, please check in and say hi. It’s always great to see old friends or make new ones. And the Commandant can never get enough good advice from folks who’ve “been there; done that.” So please feel free to contact me at mark.welsh@usafa.af.mil, or call (719) 333-4290 (DSN 333-4290), with any concems, complaints, questions, or compliments (!) for these great young cadets we’re so privileged to lead. We’re here to serve; we welcome your help; and we’ll keep doing our level best to ensure our Air Force has even better leaders for the conflicts to come! ■

BEAT OKLAHOMA!!!

- Boomer

■YOUNG TROOPS VISIT ACADEMY

nice to see their enthusiasm for learning and having fun,” Cadet 3rd Class Jason Vanoverbeke. “We can get a feeling of what it was like back when we were young.”

The Scouts, Scouters, Webelos and Explorers spent the weekend camping outside, learning about the Academy, earning merit badges and having fun. The boys viewed glider demonstrations, learned about model airplanes and saw attack dog simulations. All the activities the youths enjoyed were organized by cadets.

Drew Koch, 11, a second-year Webelo from Breckenridge really enjoyed the hang gliders and model airplanes.

“It’s fascinating,” he said. “They told us how they work. It was great. Yes, I think the Academy is very cool.”

As for the coolness of the weather - there was very little freezing in the Freezoree weekend.

“[It’s been] normal for us but I bet for other people it’s bad,” said Garrett Pearson, 12, also from Breckenridge who met some cadets from warmer New Mexico. “They’re really cold.” Pearson also loved the remote control airplanes and gliders.

“It’s terrific,” said Dick Shaffer, Breckenridge’s scoutmaster. “The cadets do all the hard work. It’s a lot warmer here than it is up in Breckenridge.”

Freezoree is more than just a chance to throw snowballs, build forts and watch planes, according to Shaffer. It’s an opportunity to see what other troops do and what equipment they use.

“You leam a lot,” Shaffer said. “They love it.”

Here’s a chance to get in with other Scouts and other troops,” he said. “It’s a bigger world than they [the Scouts] thought it was.” ■

By Jennifer Brugman

3,000

“They’re so enthusiastic and energetic,” said Cadet 2nd Class Benjamin Youngquist. “It’s good to be around them and have fun. It’s nice to get back to our Scout roots.”

“It’s a lot of fun working with Scouts because it’s

Falcon Stadium parking lot is the perfect place for a snowball fight, as more than

Boy Scouts found out the weekend of Feb. 3-4.

Superintendents from the three largest service academies - the U.S. Naval Academy, U. S. Military Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy - each accepted a check on March 28 for $100,000 from the George and Carol Olmsted Foundation. The money, which represents the first of a long-term multi-year commitment, will be used to create a “Tri-Service Academy Midshipman and Cadet Overseas Travel and Cultural Immersion Program” that will:

fund service academy student

overseas travel and study abroad

encourage joint experiences for students from all three academies

encourage cultural immersion in nonEnglish speaking countries around the world facilitate the academic departments from USMA, USNA and USAFA in working closely together to plan and coordinate joint efforts to study abroad

Executive Director Rear Adm. Larry Marsh, USN (Ret.) USNA (‘63) presented the checks from the Olmsted Foundation at the U.S. Naval Academy in Annapolis, Md. Air Force Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. John Dallager, Naval Academy Superintendent Vice Adm. John Ryan, and Military Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. Daniel Christman were present at the Naval Academy to receive the checks.

This year, for the first time, students from all three of the service academies will participate in a three-

Olmsted

n

Scholarship rrogram

Olmsted Foundation presents three service academies with a $100,000 grant.

week educational trip to Vietnam, funded by this program. They will study the economy of a communist society as it competes in the global markets of the 21 st century. More importantly, the students will be immersed in the culture of this unique society as part of their educational experience.

The George and Carol Olmsted Foundation also funds the Olmsted Scholar Program, established in 1959. This program offers educational grants to nine officers (three each from the Navy/Marine Corps, Air Force and Army) for two years ofgraduate study in a foreign language and other educational experiences in a foreign country. The general purpose ofthe program is to broadly educate young career military officers who exhibit extraordinary potential for becoming this country’s future military leaders. Since 1960, 330 military officers have completed two years ofstudy abroad under this program.

“This new program will provide unprecedented opportunities for students at the three service academies to be language-educated overseas and to broaden their cultural experience through international travel and exposure,” said Vice Adm. Ryan. “We’re all grateful to the Olmsted Foundation for the foresight and support of this tri-service effort.”

According to Rear Adm. Larry Marsh, “This is a unique chance for the three academies to work more closely together and for our foundation to offer a wonderful overseas travel opportunity that will enrich the entire educational experience for these fine students. We’re thrilled to help make this possible.” ■

FOUNDERS’ DAY

Editor’s note:The Academy celebrated Founders Day on 7April at Doolittle Hall The gala marked the 47h anniversary of the establishment ofthe Acadenty. On l April 1954, President Dwight Eisenhower signed the bill authorizing the creation of the Air Force.

ONE GRAD’S PERSPECTIVE

By Bob Muldrow ‘67

Ithought you might enjoy some anecdotal comments about Founders’ Day from one grad’s perspective. Before I start though, I would like to say this was the most successful Founders’ Day event ever. All who worked on it should be proud of a job well done. Now for my abbreviated version ofwhat some ofyou may have missed.

Jim Shaw, AOG President and CEO, was our cohost. He began the formal proceedings with a quick slide show ofthe Academy’s progress over the last 47 years. Doesn’t seem that long, does it? I especially liked his slide of the gal looking over her shoulder back in 1976 as she approached the “Bring Me Men” ramp. It has always been one of my favorites. She seems so sassy and self-confident—kind of saying, “I am ready boys, throw your best at me, because I am here to stay.” She and her fellow (our fellow) grads have made an indelible mark on our collective heritage. In fact, Jim mentioned that one of our female grads (Susan Helms) could not make the festivities that evening, because she was out circling the Earth somewhere in a space station. As you all know, Gen. Ryan was our guest speaker. He spoke briefly about some of the happenings in Washington as they transition from one presidency to the next. You can also read in other periodicals about his strategic vision for the future, but what I found to be a lot offun was his recollection of his relationship with another four-star who was seated at his table. Let me set the stage for those of you who were not present.

* n 7 > V

Back in 1964, C1C Ryan had a smiling Doolie named Eberhart in his squadron. Gen. Ryan recalled their relationship as one of being “buddies.” The mention of being “buddies” almost caused Gen. Eberhart to fall out of his seat. Upon further reflection, Gen. Ryan began to recall things with a different twist. Apparently he got cross-wise with the Commandant and was spending a lot ofhis

M Founders’ Day cont.

first class year on the tour pad. So much so that his Loretta Lovely, Jane, was getting used to coming down from Denver just to wave to him as he wore holes in the bottom ofhis shoes. Thus, we all began to envision how one or two pent-up firstiefrustrations may have been released on some underclassmen, especially underclassmen with smiles as contagious as Cadet Eberharf s. But now almost 40 years later, one remembers that time with one spin and the other remembers it with a significantly different spin.

There were many other minor magic moments found throughout the evening. For example, Jim Brown ’59 wore the original Cecil B. DeMille-designed cummerbund and bow tie used by the first classes. I had never seen an outfit that bright a blue before. Since he could not hold his breath for a couple hours, Jim elected not to try to wear his cadet pants.

My wife Dale visited with her classmate, Jane Morgan. That normally would not be newsworthy, except that Jane Morgan is now the wife of our guest speaker.

The Cadet Chorale’s 11-person acapella ensemble brought the evening to a fitting end. They were terrific. The cadets certainly enjoyed the opportunity to close out the evening singing and sharing the stage with the Ryans, Eberharts, and Dallagers. That about wraps it up. We filled the entire Doolittle Hall ballroom floor. Folks were turned away. I hope those ofyou who were thinking about coming, but procrastinated, will mark your calendars for next year—especially ifyou are from my class. I am getting so tired of seeing all that tacky red from 1966, but they certainly do a great job supporting various Academy events. ■

□ The First Pitch

USAFA and USNA astronauts open baseball season at Camden Yards. Astronauts Bob Curbeam USNA ‘84 and Tom Jones USAFA ‘77 threw out the first pitch at the season opener for the Baltimore Orioles and Boston Red Sox.

□ Sabre Drill Team wins awards

USAFA’s Sabre Drill Team poses with their trophies after placing first and second in “2-man trick” in the competition held 22-25 Feb. at Cornell University. Visit us on line at www.aog-usafa.org

BILL. INGALLS/NASA PHOTOGRAPHER

Last Call

Remembering Jock

Editor’s Note: On 28 Feb, Col. (Ret) Jock Schwank ‘60 retired from the Association of Graduates after serving 12 years as Vice President, Services. Jock was also a critical player in the AOG’s early years. His vision and dedication contributed immensely to building the AOG into the quality organization it is today. His years of service to the AOG in one capacity or another spanned over 25 years. The Academy and the AOG owe Jock a deep debt of gratitude for his years of outstanding service. On 16 Feb, the AOG Board of Directors honored Jock with a farewell dinner. Following are his remarks to the attendees.

BY JOCK SCHWANK

Thank you to Danny Showers for the wonderful sounds - his entire family epitomizes the meaning of commitment to the Academy and to the AOG. And what a special treat to have Dr Joe Galema and the cadets performmy classmates may remember that it was at our 30th reunion we started a memorial ceremony tradition that has enhanced every reunion since 1990. Joe and the cadet chorale have participated in every reunion memorial ceremony held in the cadet chapel since that first time at our reunion.

It has indeed been a fun trip. And we have indeed come a long way since I first joined the board a long time ago and subsequently became an AOG employee 12 years ago. Thanks Wayne Kendall for encouraging me to start this most enjoyable part of my life as an AOG vice president.

But the point I’d like to make tonight is that we would not be where we are without the people of the AOG that I have had the pleasure of serving with. We have all shared in the accolades as to how smart we were to hire Dick Coppock whose true leadership took us to unimaginable heights. But we wouldn’t be where we are today without board members over the years who demonstrated both tenacity and vision, and a willingness to roll up their sleeves and get the work

done. I suspect everyone in this room knows board members who sacrificed career progression or personal financial gain when they stood up for the graduate community in times ofdiscord. I sure know some ofthem. To this day we ask board members to take time off from their civilian enterprises or their militaryjobs to represent their fellow graduates, and to represent them at their own personal expense.We have asked for an exceptional commitment from the early days of working board meetings every two weeks in faculty offices, to monthly meetings and finally today’s policy setting quarterlymeetings. We wouldn’t be in this building on this site if it wasn’t for a very courageous board that voted one afternoon to build this building, and to build it here on this beautiful site. How many ofyou remember the pressure on us to buy the old Zuider Zee for our headquarters, or to build a new building on land outside the Northgate. There are still a few grads who are upset about our final decision to be here on the Academy grounds.

We would not be the AOG we are today ifGen. Skip Scott hadn’t made a personal commitment to ensure that the AOG would survive in the early days of our forced independence - he made sure we got the building site, the building design and the Academy support we needed to survive. Gen. Scott epitomizes the dramatic support we have received from nearly all superintendents and their senior staffmembers throughout our history.

Where would our fund raising be today if a board in the early 80s, without a fund-raising background, hadn’t authorized us to begin our first annual campaign - A1 Blumberg (‘68) wrote that first brochure and headed that first campaign with lots of hope and work and zip in background. Look where we have gone from such humble beginnings.What a trip it has been in membership -boards that have taken us from less than 40 percent membership 20 years ago and around a third of that in life membership, to today where more than half of all graduates are members and 80 percent of them are lifetime members. And the importance to all of us with the emergence of the cadet life membership program and more recently our involvement with cadets in purchasing class rings, graduation announcements and the graduation commemorative project.

We have come SO far and the great part is that the Joumey has only begun.’

we forget the importance ofbehind the ike Randy Cubero & Pearl Swafford of the Falcon Foundation and individuals like Jess Crane, whose friendship, advice, personal sacrifice and experience have been invaluable to us as we go down new trails.

I remember the battles along the way on whether or not we should offer services or remain a primarily fraternal organization. It is hard to imagine an AOG that doesn’t offer the services we offer today. Yet the critical risks we initially took to offer those services are faded memories of our past.

We take the joint job opportunities program for granted. I remember the discussions on whether or not we really wanted to get involved this dramatically and this intimately with the other academies. Individuals from all the academies put huge personal and professional commitments on the line to ensure that this dramatic, and first, cooperative effort was successful.

Where would our services programs be if board members hadn’t personally stood up for programs they thought were important to our constituents: one of many examples would be Bill Richardson’s (‘71) personal commitment to ensure the success ofthe graduate dependent scholarship program. And the personal commitment of my classmate, Andi Biancur, who, among other things as a board member, spent his own funds to come help the services staff with reunion registration, taking tailgate tickets and helping with car parking.

We have truly come a long way, but where would we be without the tremendous AOG staff that we’ve been able to hire to serve you - the board ofdirectors; to serve you - the graduate community; and you - the academy.

It has only been in the last five years that I’ve been able to hire someone in services at more than minimum wage. And, yet, somehow we were able to get dedicated people who were willing to work long hours, often at night and on weekends, to ensure that we truly served our constituencies. Whether it was reunion support or accurate database input or helping with golf tee-times, the staff was there for you. We, your staff, are there to help welcome the new class, commission the graduating class, host graduate wedding receptions, and sadly, assist in funerals.

We are all proud of Checkpoints and the Regis

ter - do you remember that only one AOG staffmember, Tom Kroboth, handled the entirety of both of these publications until two years ago?

Our new web site serves all of our constituents very well, but recall that when we started to develop it two years ago, with string and butcher paper, we could not afford to hire a qualified computer web master. So a staff member, Wayne Taylor, with literally no background in website systems, taught himselfall the details necessary to build the site and maintain it in a professional state that we can all be proud of. We are all so comfortable with our information technology capabilities - have we forgotten that it was only five years ago that Chuck Denham developed the system that allowed us to run our own database independent of the Academy. And, now, we are on our second generation of computers with software capabilities that were only dreams when we moved into this building. Bill Richardson, a board member, got us the first system and John Moore, a board member, got us the second system so we can serve our folks even better.

And, so we’ve come full circle - we’ve come a long way, but we would not have made it without the work and commitment of the people ofthe AOG: your Board of Directors and your AOG staff members.

We have come so far and the great part is that the journey has only begun.

It has been a fun ride and I thank you all for allowing me to go along on the trip with you.

Thank you again for tonight.

'"I'm new. Kick me!”

“Men and women in the class of 2001, you who are no doubt still on your emotional high, get ready because there are many more lines to write in your stories...”

Keeping it in Perspective: A few words for the Class of 2001 and anyone else who cares to listen.

Graduation!

It remains one ofthe most memorable moments in my life, and I suspect many others would agree. Its the final bit of punctuation—an exclamation point!—on a sentence that took four years (or more, for some) to write. Graduation day is a whirlwind with enough energy and emotion to make any adrenaline junkie jealous. Perhaps that is why we forget, though only momentarily, that there are many more sentences left to write.

Men and women in the Class of 2001, you who are no doubt still on your emotional high, get ready because there are many more lines to write in your stories.

And, be prepared to write some questions marks—lots of them—soon.

For me, it must have been 60 days after graduation, and it hit— hard! Life as an “L-T” wasn’t going to be a cakewalk.

“You might say it’s the rite ofpassage phase for officerhood, but it certainly isn’t the last one: you go through it every time you advance to some new level or job,” said Lt. Col. Tom Krise (’83). “But, second lieutenancy is special because those butter-colored bars are like a sandwich board declaring: ‘I’m new, kick me!”’

That’s hard to deal with when you’re a firstie on top of the USAFA world. “My Dad, an Air Force lieutenant colonel, warned me that the biggest demotion in the Air Force would be going from a USAFA firstie to a second lieutenant—how right he was!” said Col. Dick Rauschkolb (’70). “Nevertheless, it is something most, if not all grads, need to endure. The ‘Real Air Force’ is indeed different than the sterile confines of the Zoo!”

That’s exactly what a firstie or new grad needs to hear; yet it’s taboo to some degree. Most every day of a cadet career is spent with thoughts like “Everything will be great when I leave this place!” Nobody wants to hear that another challenge lies ahead.

Question marks?

So, Class of2001, as you embark on yourAir Force career, prepare to don the “kick me” sign, and prepare to ask yourself some questions.

Why dopeople look at me in an odd, detestable way?

First, remember that sign: “I’m new, kick me!” Seriously, though, the answer is found in respect—the type you are owed by virtue ofyour rank and the most important type, that which you earn.

“A toughthing about being a second lieutenant is that you bear the brunt of having to justify the class stratification of the armed forces. NCOs, especially, are eager to make sure that you recognize that respect is something that needs to be earned, even (or perhaps especially) when a certain degree ofinstitutional and customary respect is accorded you because of your commission,” said Lt. Col. Krise. “And, more senior officers are eager to ensure you don’t embarrass the officer corps more than usual.”

Work on earning respect—don’t assume you have it.

Why don’t I have more responsibility?

The responsibility is there, and it’s mosdy found in learning your job; it’s important to know your role. “Second lieutenants are a little like journeyman officers (where cadets are the apprentices): not quite masters ofthe craft, but still members ofthe guild,” advises Lt. Col. Krise.

(continued next page)

Why is it so damn hard to get things done?

After a month at Schriever Air Force Base, I was “in charge” oforganizing the base’s POW/MIA Recognition Day ceremony. The logistical details were daunting, and I was clueless—had no idea where to begin. I relied heavily on my NCOs, folks who had been on station for years and who knew how to make thingshappen. The enlisted network is where thingsreallyget done; and to tap into it, you first have to take care ofyour troops.

“My Dad told me to take care ofmy enlisted troops—they would make or break my career. That was probably the best piece ofadvice I ever received,” said Col. Rauschkolb. “Time and time again these great troops saved this lieutenant’s bacon because they knew I would always stick up for them and cut them some slack ifthey needed it.”

As with Col. Rauschkolb, my troops saved me then, and they continue to do so.

When do the trials and tribulations of“L-T”life end?

Many I’ve talked to say it ends when your gold bars turn silver. Seems to me, though, that even after that happens, and in ranks beyond, it’s still possible to wear that “kick me” sign, however unknowingly. So, recognize that you wear the sign early on and work to get rid ofit. You’ll know when it’s gone—people will stop kicking you in the ass.

The First Year....

Being a second lieutenant hasn’t been easy; then again, I don’t recall anyone saying that it would be. One ofthe first things you begin to realize is how big of an impact the so-called “little things” can have, whether positive or negative. The way you wear your uniform, the time you go to work, as well as the time you leave—everything, however seemingly mundane, makes an impression. That ties into the responsibility of supervision. I’m fortunate to have two great NCOs working for me (one ofwhom was recendy selected for OTS!). I share in their triumphs and in their hard times as well. Your troops rely on you, just as you rely on them, and that’s an obligation that absolutely deserves the most careful attention and energy.

Perhaps one ofthe greatest responsibilities I have had in my first year was as a jury member on a court-martial involving an airman first class who pled guilty to numerous specifications of dormitory theft. The airman was sentenced to reduction in grade to E-l, forfeiture of all pay and allowances, a bad conduct discharge, and one year of confinement. That’s a stark contrast to serving on an honor board where the greatestpunishment is dismissal, which is not lenient by any means, but certainly not comparable to a bad conduct discharge, which stays on one’s record forever, not to mention jail time.

For the future pilot trainees out there, my impression is that it’s very similar to what everyone is told and anticipates. The days—long, the studying—intense, and the stress—incredible. I heard from a Columbus UPT student and classmate, 2nd Lt. Marta Blizniak, who told a story of how some members ofher UPT class hadn’t passed a test, and in return, the entire class was denied flight suits for yet another week. A punishment, I suppose, or perhaps a motivator? I couldn’t help but think that it sounded a bit reminiscent of doolie year. Still, my pilot classmates, at least those I’ve talked to, are having some great times, despite the Herculean task ofbecoming Air Force pilots.

“Second lieutenants are a little like journeyman officers (where cadets are the apprentices): not quite masters of the craft, but still members of the guild,’’said

Lt. Col. Krise

Would I do it all over again?

For the Class of2001, the transition to second lieutenant is a welcomed one. There is no doubt in my mind that it certainly beats being a cadet. 2nd Lt. Dorothy Deluz perhaps put it best. I asked her, “Ifyou could be a cadet again, would you be?”

“Does hell look like a nice vacation spot?” she said. “Hell no!”

Despite the great times you will have by virtue of newfound freedom, there are still some tough times, professionally and otherwise, that you will have to work through. And all those questions—don’t forget them.

Not too long ago, the “kick me” sign was flashing brightly— it was a particularly bad lieutenant day. I was in search for some perspective when I asked Lt. Col. Krise and Col. Rauschkolb—“If you could be a second lieutenant again, would you be?”

“I guess I’d have to say that I would go through the pain of being a second lieutenant again, just to get to the rest ofmy USAF career, which has been great,” said Lt. Col Krise.

“There were plusses and minuses,” said Col. Rauschkolb, “but it was a good experience once you realized it was a great chance to learn about your profession.”

The positive responses were reassuring, and should be reassurring to all second lieutenants out there (and for the rest of you who still wear the “kick me” sign). Col Rauschkolb’s parting shot to me. “Best advice-be humble!” It’s the best advice for all. ■

By 2LT Jeremy Eggers

A CONVERSATION WITH ANDI

ndi Biancur’s eyes still light up when he talks about his affection for the Academy. His feelings are so strong that he recently established a $150,000 Charitable Trust to beniflt the AOG and the Academy in the years to come. [Checkpoints] sat down in midFebruary for a conversation about his thoughts on the Academy and how it has affected his life. Andi Biancur ‘60 in his own words.

CHECKPOINTS: Andi, please tell us a little bit about yourself and your background? |

ANDI: My name is Andrew Biancur, middle initial W. for William. People call me Andi...My father was a test pilot in the Army-Air Corps. He was killed very early in my life—I was six years old—at Eglin test flying the YP-61, the Black Widow. About three days after my dad was killed I walked up to my mom and said “Mommy, I’m going to be just like Daddy.”

That, to me, meant being a pilot in the Air Force. From that point on, I focused on West Point—a fairly clear direction to go.

My mother was a schoolteacher, and she came home | one day and said, “Hey, there’s this new place called the Air Force Academy.”

At that point, my focus changed. I was lucky enough to get admitted in 1956, and graduated with the class of 1960. The big moment came after pilot training when my mother came and pinned my dad’s wings on me. That kind of meant to me: “Well, I’m just like Daddy.”

So, I had a career in the Air Force until I retired in 1986. Like most people who graduated the Academy in those early years, I didn’t want to have a damn thing to do with it for many, many years. But at the 15-20

year point, it became important to come back,just as— I think—it is to many graduates. I guess the major reason I want to stay connected to the Academy is because those four years give you a lot. And I’d say they gave me everything I have today. I guess you can’t say everything—but most things. It gives you a group offriends who are lifetime friends. I’m very fortunate to have those; the whole class, as far as I’m concerned, is very close. We have been all of our lives and we wouldn’t have that without the Academy. The careers we’ve had and any gain we have gotten out of life started there. And I feel, to some extent, that it’s important to recognize that it all came from somewhere and it’s important where that is.

CHECKPOINTS: I understand that you have decided to set up a Charitable Remainder Trust for the Academy. Why did you decide to do this?

ANDI: Let’s go back to the beginning. I served on the AOG Board in the ‘80s—before we were even thinking about Doolittle Hall. We got into fundraising and I found out what benefits a new building would provide, not only for the graduate community, but for the cadets here in school. The AOG serves the graduates and the Academy, but it’s tough to raise funds without putting the Academy first. I watched [the build-

ing process of Doolittle Hall] and I was involved, to some degree, with the entire fundraising process and the maturing ofthe fundraising capacity. As the Sabre Society came on board, I felt I wanted to be part of that, initially. As Gary Howe startedtalking about other ways to give, the Charitable Remainder Trust concept and “bequeathing” gifts back to the Academy became a very viable alternative. I saw that would be a way to provide the Academy with some more resources and I was in a position that I could do that. A Charitable Remainder Trust rolls over after your death, but during your life it produces income, builds the trust, and pays offthe management fees. For example, the individual can choose different rates of return—six, eight, 10 percent—and there can be tax benefits from doing that. I did what I felt fit my needs at the time.

CHECKPOINTS: I sense you have a lot ofpride and emotion for the Academy and its graduates. Can you describe that in words?

IF YOU’RE LUCKY ENOUGH OR SUCCESSFUL ENOUGH- IT’S IMPORTANT TO RECOGNIZE THAT ITJUUrAME FROI

■►IT’S IMPORTANT

ANDI: Yes, I feel pride in the Academy, in the Air Force and in my country. The old West Point “Duty, Honor, Country” is very obvious. The responsibility that goes with that is an example for those who follow. The role model that grads set goes a long way in being an element in cadet character development. I feel that responsibility. I think we should all feel that responsibility. I think it’s important for us to be here, on a casual basis for the rest of our lives, to form that role model for the young [cadets].

CHECKPOINTS: What do you think of the cadets today versus the cadets in your era? Obviously there have been changes, but has the climate or environment ofthe Academy changed from when you were here?

ANDI: Let me answer that two ways. The obvious answer is, in the early years, I think there was more bonding within the wing because we were smaller. We were “the underdogs,” the unproven. Now, it’s an established institution; I feel that the 227 graduates in my class were closer than a squadron or group today. Now, to answer that in another way: I hope that today’s kids—cadets—are smarter, better, stron

ger, faster because if they’re not then we’ve done something terribly wrong. Hopeful y, we learned one way and were able to improve on that; with improved learning, improved capabilities and improved equipment, we have a better product. I feel proud about that; we have done what we can to make it better for each succeeding class. The kids today are probably a heck ers, quicker pilots.

of a lot better; better officyou a follow-up question

CHECKPOINTS: Let me as on that. Do you think the AOG plays a role in making the environment better for cadets and should it become more involved in doing so? Do you think the Academy’s graduate community has that kind of influence—like West Point?

ANDI: I think they have a role and it has to start in the school. It has to start in the first four years, with the AOCs, with the leadership at the Academy and with the first class training the fourth class. I think that is where the bonding and the camaraderie start. I think the AOG can support that in two ways. The first way is that the association can be there to support the Academy structure and stay closely attuned to the training. Once the kids leave the Academy, we just have to be there for them. There wi 1 be a time when they’ll come back and say, “You know, I had a good deal.” And the AOG has to be constant enough so that they have something to come back to.

CHECKPOINTS: What was the toughest time you had as a cadet?

ANDI: The biggest lesson I learned at the Academy, especially during that first summer, was to listen to my peers. The quick example: three of us were doing pushups and getting yelled at. The|

guy next to me said they won’t yell as much.’

I was able to recover from that because I was told early enough. That was a big lesson.

CHECKPOINTS: You talked a little about the most difficult times. What do you think were the most enjoyable times?

ANDI: The most enjoyable times... The 1958 football season was just unreal. We went to a lot of the games; it was the first year we were in Division 1 of NCAA and we started winning and just couldn’t believe it. An undefeated season and the Cotton Bowl. The “cardiac kids.” That was a wonderful time. Senior year—the whole senior year— was great. It started with senior summer, when they trained us to take on the cadre. That whole senior summer; the leadership experience that we got then, and right on through the year, was great. Of course, then graduation— you can’t top that.

CHECKPOINTS: Is that when the saying came about: “The best view of the Academy is from your rearview mirror?”

ANDI: Well, that started with the class of ’59—I think— and we picked it up.

CHECKPOINTS: How do you think your time at the Academy and since has prepared you for the success you’ve achieved?

ANDI: [USAFA] gives you the basis—knowledge-wise. We were very fortunate to get a smattering of things back then; we didn’t specialize in any career field, so we had English and math. That gave me a very good basis; I didn’t feel that I was a specialist in any field, but I felt I had a good basis to branch out and do anything. I believe, although the Air Force is different now, that the school still needs to train leaders and not specifically doctors or pilots. This is where the leadership of the Air Force comes from; I think a leader needs to have a broad basis. The Academy gave me enough information—although all general—that I could build on it and go many different directions. It develops a thought process; it develops logic and a certain amount of discipline that you need to lead. The Honor Code becomes the basis of your life.

[The Honor Code] gives you a good moral basis to make judgments necessary later on in life when the ideal situation of an Academy isn’t there. You can’tjust live by the Honor Code—you’ve got to make adjustments to get through life. It gives you a basis; the basis of my thought process is honor, it’s truth. ■

■LETTERS FROM 2004

“Sometimes you get discouraged because of certain situations here at the Academy. But if you find a moment to just reflect on where you are, you find beauty and pride throughout this institution. You can’t help but praise God for allowing you to be here, and bringing you this far.”

Cadet 4th Class Foster-Loggins, cadet squadron 32

“Blood, sweat, and tears. Throlgh all these things we have realized we are a team. We we learned that no matter how tough we think we are, we are thaBnuch stronger has one. Together we never fail. More than a tafnn, a family, the class of 2004 is ready for war!” f j

Cadet 4th Class fPPjwf^^Mangunt, cadet squadron 7

“Basic Cadet Training rang one single truth over and over in my soul: It’s not the size of the dog in the fight that matters, it’s the size of the fight in the dog.”

Cadet 4th Class Matthew Terry, cadet squadron II

“The most important tj^g 1 learned is to support your classmates. If one gets in troublowou tak«ie rap with him. It sounded stupid at first, but it really Bs help ween you’re getting punished and you see five strangers fush up to get punished with you. It really eases the stress.” H &

Cadet 4th Class 4K Agosto, cadet squadron 18

“My experiences at the Academy have helped me to build a strong sense of pride in my country—a pride so strong that I am willing to put my life on the line for this nation.”

Cadet 4th Class Geoffrey Ryan Woolf, cadet squadron 25

“The only thing that l^p mywfirit in basic training was the friendships that I developed ipthe short six weeks we spent together. The friend|hips that Bave developed during that time will last a lifetime. 1 will be pjold to call each and everyone of them my brother an®ister.” mj

Cadet 4th Class Jemey Almn Gould, cadet squadron 32

During basic training, I learned how important it is to work as a team. I never thought I would have to rely on people I didn’t even know to be successful. Now, those people are very important to me, and I would do anything to support them.”

Cadet 4th Class Amoy P. Jackson, cadet squadron 1

“The most important thing that I have gained from training here at the Academy is integriy It is not easy to live by the high standards that the Academy derands olone’s personality, but once integrity is woven into one’s|personality,§Ioing the right thing becomes almost a reflex. Making the right decision in a split second is what United States Air Force offiHrs are called upon to do, and integrity is the keystone of that ability.”

Cadet 4th Class John Rogers Langston, cadet squadron 7

“The most important thing I have learned so far is how to manage my time. But I have also realized how good my mom’s cooking was, how much fun I had sailing with my family, and how much I miss my dog.”

Cadet Fourth Class Austin Lon Lovejoy, cadet squadron 19

A Different kind of

BYC4C BREEZY M. LONG, CS08

<7His-piece is in commemoration ofCadet ‘ThirdClass (DanielT. Murphy, Cadet Squadron 8, VnitedStatesAir TorceJ4cademy. It describes the TATS Vigilheldin his honor,fourdays after his death in a tragic car accident. Adofthe rights in the CadetArea were turnedoff, the curtains ofevery room closed In service dress andin silence, the Cadet ‘Wing linedthe terrazzo aroundSpirit Hid (Barely surviving the waifoutside, the cadetsfoundthemselves in place only with the support ofone another. Andfinally I havefoundwords to express the sense that I havefelt since Ifirst arrivedhere. The moment I was bacfin my room, 16egan to write. Now I can onlyprayyou willlisten, VCe are a crew unlike any otherin this country, or in this world. Serving in the military, we are more thanjust our nation’s defenders; we are each other’sfamily. Losing a 6rother or sister in arms, to anyfate, nearly destroys us ad But we endure hecause we have each other. No matter who we are, where we comefrom, or what our secret dreams may he, we are stillone unit, onefamily, one heart. Andour ties with one another cannot he severed; they are thicker than blood Tor even ifnot together in body, weforever embrace in spirit.

Classmate,friend, brother Murph, thisfamily willmiss you, but you willalways be with us.

W"e were all there. Probably just a few hundred had actually known him, but it didn’t matter. We were all there.

The whole place was dark, except the sky. The night sky had this surreal glow, like one last light left on in heavenmaybe it was. The wind was blowing so hard we could barely stand upright; then it would slow; then run full force again. He was playing with us. Good of Murph. Always good for a laugh, especially when you needed it most. Finally, one time the wind slowed and calmed, and stayed that way. In a long, rippling line we all came to attention. It was time.

They called his name over the still grass. This was real. It wasn’t a nightmare. This was really for our Murph. We were all there. And then it played: Amazing Grace. The hollow cry of the bagpipes was flawless, beautiful and terrible. We held our breath. There was more. All was not grace tonight.

We raised our hands in salute. It was coming. The sound of them cocking the rifles uttered a warning. Crack!—the first seven shots were a stinging shock. Our eyes blinked. It echoed around us, until... CracA/—the next seven pierced straight through the core. This was no dream. And it wasn’t over yet... Crack!—the final seven. We were broken. Breaking for him, and for each other.

And then it was sealed. By one bugle call to another across the way: TAPS. They were separate, but in harmony. That

was how it was meant to be. God only knows why. We were breathless. And it hurt.

At the last resounding note, our arms fell back to our sides. With the first words ofHigh Flight we brought our covers down, too. They sounded like they were singing with angels’ voices—maybe they were.

Then it was our turn.

“Here’s a toast to the host of those who love the vastness of the sky...” We had to find our voices, somewhere, buried in the pit of our stomachs. And we whispered in song, together as one...

“...To a friend we send the message of his brother men who fly...” That was him. That was us. This was ours. We were all there...

“...We drink to those who gave their all of old. Then down we roar to score the rainbow’s pot of gold...” We were almost there. Almost there.

“..A toast to the host of men we boast the US Air Force.”

We had made it together. Even Murph. For the wind had settled around us on the ground, but the American flag, along with his golden, class-colored flag, flying half-mast over our heads, rattled in a breeze blowing somewhere above us, and gave him away.

Yes, he was there. We were all there.

Since the graduating class of 1959 entered, the United States Air Force Academy has been committed to producing the finest officers in the world. These graduating officers have chosen to maintain the highest standards of integrity in both their personal and professional lives as well as being held accountable to the highest expectations of moral and ethical military service. Nothing less can be required from the leaders of the most powerful military force any society has ever produced. In order to generate this type of officer, the Air Force Academy relies on methods of character development unique from most of the society it serves. More specifically, the foundation of all officer training is derived from one straightforward concept—the Cadet Wing Honor Code.

Simplistic in nature, the Honor Code is a string of 14 words: ‘We will not lie, steal, or cheat, nor tolerate among us anyone who does.” However, these simple words have had an enormous impact on the 40,000 men and women who have joined the fraternity ofAir Force Academy graduates and gone on, when called upon, to serve humbly. The Honor Code quickly becomes more than just a concept to live under while a member ofthe Cadet Wing; it becomes a way of life. It is not a high standard of conduct, but the minimum expectation for acceptance as a cadet and the baseline behavior vital to officership. Over the four years a cadet spends at the Academy, the cadet is encouraged to internalize the spirit of the code which is “Do the Right Thing and Live Honorably.”

Once an individual internalizes the code, they are driven from the inside by a desire to do what is right, regardless of situation, time, or place. The Air Force Academy is different from many of its civilian counterparts. As an institution of higher learning, the academy must ensure the academic success of its students. But more importantly to the Air Force and the citizens of the United States, the Air Force Academy must “inspire and develop outstanding young men and women to become Air Force officers with knowledge, character, and discipline; motivated to lead the world’s greatest aerospace force in service to the nation.”

Mere knowledge in the realm of academia will not suffice at the academy—developing the world’s best leaders is the ultimate goal. The recipe for the successful completion of the academy’s mission is simple: honorable behavior leads to character, character produces trust, and trust is a main determinant of leadership ability.

During the last 40 years, the United States, its citizens, and thus the young men and women it sends to attend its service academies have changed dramatically. Yet, over that same time period the Cadet Wing Honor Code has remained unwavering. The reasons for this are simple— times may change, people may change, thoughts may change—regardless of the diverse backgrounds of the Cadet Wing, in which all 50 states are represented, there is a universal right and wrong that can be taught, learned, and certain behaviors that should be expected. The Honor Code outlines these rights and wrongs and promotes the many positive principles that are the result of these ethical behaviors. As a group of

approximately 4,000 young Americans, the Cadet Wing prominently displays traits like honesty, fairness, respect and support in every aspect of their lives—both professionally in uniform and personally wherever their lives may take them.

The administrative system that ensures the fair execution of the Honor Code, however, has changed throughout the last 40 years. Every Cadet at the Air Force Academy maintains the integrity ofthe system by being responsible for the improvement and operation of the system.

Every year the Cadet Honor Executive Committee, composed of group and wing level honor officers and members of the Academy staff, review the Honor System and recommend changes to ensure due process. In fact, other sources of positive change include the secretary of the Air Force, Staff Judge Advocate’s office, and cadets not serving in honor positions. These changes have culminated in a better run and more fair system then ever before. Recent changes to the Cadet Wing Honor System include: clarifying the “reasonable doubt” clause which is our standard for determining if a cadet broke the Code; protocol on how cadets are treated when they are found not in violation of the Honor Code; and procedural changes in how investigations into possible Honor Code offenses are run.

Although the Cadet Honor System is not a legal system, we do require due process. To ensure every cadet receives the same fair treatment, we make sure that when investigative teams draft allegations that a cadet violated the Honor Code they are reviewed and accepted by the case legal advisor. A case legal advisor is a member ofthe dean of the faculty law department that assists investigative teams in conducting proper investigations and drafting allegations. This review will lead to allegations that are representative of the evidence collected during investigation.

Another positive change in the recent past has been the institution of Honor Probation. Probation is a rehabilitative program that serves as suspended disenrollment. Clearly a step in the right direction, the probation period allows a few deserving individuals the chance to regain their status in the Cadet Wing after an infraction ofthe Honor Code, by allowing them to leam from their mistake during an extensive rehabilitation process. Only forthright and truly sincere individuals are given this opportunity to show their maturity while their disenrollment has been suspended. For most ofthe people that regain their status as a Cadet, they have learned invaluable and deeply-rooted lessons of integrity, which can only produce better officers in the long run.

As the United States enters the 21 st century and the Air Force continues to be a dominating force throughout the world, the citizens of this country should demand no less than officers who proudly model the core values of “Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in All We Do.” The United States Air Force Academy is the frontrunner for taking high school students and turning them into the leaders of tomorrow by providing them with the foundation of character development found only through a stringent, yet fair minimum standard of conduct—the Cadet Wing Honor Code. ■

“The United States Air Force Academy is the frontrunner for taking high school students and turning them into the leaders of tomorrow by providing them with the foundation of character development found only through a stringent, yet fair minimum standard of conduct- the Cadet Wing Honor Code.”

Football and all its frivolity aside, A Return to Glory contains gems. As Howard Carter said upon peering into Tutankhamon’s Tomb, “I see things, wonderful things!”

a return to glorv

By Phillip S. Meilinger, ‘70

EReview of A Return to Glory. The untold story of honor, dishonor, and triumph at the United States Military Academy 1950-53.

verybody loves a juicy-good scandal. So A Return to Glory follows, beginning in 1949, a step-by-step and highly readable unfolding ofWest Points own “Laffaire,” beginning with the rumors, whispers, sting operations, and the final implosion ofthat infamous and historical cheating ring -the cheating ring that had infiltrated the cadet Honor Committee itself The scandal arrived at a rotten time, during the middle ofthe Korean War when the Army needed outstanding officer recruits. And football was believed to be a major USMA recruiting force.

This book falls squarely on the side ofthe USMA honor system. However, William Daniel McWilliams (USMA ’55 and USAFA AOC from 1967 to 1970) who personally witnessed many ofthe events, offers no apologies for either the honorable or the dishonorable behavior ofboth cadets and officers during the honor scandal of 1951. The book also reports in detail the delight ofsenators, congressmen, and the popular press (including the ubiquitous muckraker Drew Pearson - remember him?) in “piling on” even after Maj. Gen. Frederick A. Irving, USMA superintendent, quickly decided to reveal to the world the whole extent ofthe cheating ring. The book explains how the Army leaders arrived at their decisions.

Cheating scandals aren’t unique to West Point.

West Point just got there first. Because this cheating scandal was the first ever reported at a service academy, USMA began a precedent by setting up a visiting board ofoutside legal scholars (the Hand Board, after Judge Learned Hand) to review the decisions ofUSMA officers in dealing with the cheating ring. The Army then set up its own Bartlett Board to find the scandal’s causes, consequences, and cures. Thus the academies, by following the board’s recommendations, would ensure that this sort of unfortunate event would never again rear its ugly head. The “board” method, of course, didn’t prevent future scandals, but like it or not it did set into motion a service-wide vehicle for dealing with future honor problems.

The USMA Superintendent Meant Business

Even though in 1951 USMA had no formal machinery for dealing with a scandal ofsuch magnitude, Superintendent Irving quickly set up boards of officers, administrators, lawyers, and remaining “untouchable” cadets. His machinery operated with amazingly competent and smooth speed, a process sometimes known as “military efficiency.” The entire 1951 honor scandal was considered resolved within six months. By comparison, the odors of our 1972 Watergate scandal still linger.

The 1951 honor incident was (and remains) quite small compared to the internal scandals suffered daily by many of our civilian universities, unions, and law enforcement agencies. The major difference with West Points approach to the cheating scandal was their officers’ internal decision to take immediate and positive actions by themselves to root out the perpetrators. No Watergate, Koreagate, Irangate, Whitewatergate or even Gatoradegate-style coverups here. Todays fashionable Independent Counsel is conspicuous by its absence.

The Relationship Between MacArthur and Blaik

The 1951 scandal not only decimated (and I use the word accurately) the Class of 1952, but it also gutted the proudArmy football team. Thereafter, any suspected honor violation at any service academy has always raised the initial question, “Is he/she a varsity athlete?”

McWilliams credits none other than Gen. Douglas MacArthur himself for elevating Army varsity athletics to national status. But MacArthur was also responsible for formalizing the West Point honor code. It appeared that the honor system and varsity athletics had worked against each other, and Bartlett Board arrogantly said so. A Return to Glory also details the raw and mutual admiration that MacArthur and USMA athletic director Col. Earl “Red” Blaik held for each other. Blaik - always the true soldier fought hard to keep his cadet athletes at West Point but eventuallyresigned himselfto the reality and necessity for honor. Then he went about rebuilding his football teams from ground zero. One could consider A Return to Glory a tribute to Blaik. But it’s much more.

What Do War and Football Have to Do with Honor?

The Corps of Cadets had inherited a smelly and embarrassing legacy. Blaik made it his personal quest to prove that USMA could have both intercollegiate football andhonor. And he succeeded. A Return to Glory climaxes with Army’s dumbfounding 14-13 football victory over Duke in 1953. And in 1958 Blaik again directed Army to that mythical national football championship.

And herein lies the rub. Although intercollegiate football remains to me a mystery as to its national popularity, well over half ofMcWilliams’ book is devoted to the impact of

scandal on Armyfootball. At the point football began to dominate McWilliams’ otherwise enjoyable narrative, I seriously began to question the direction ofA Return to Glory. Weight-wise rivaling any Norman Mailer novel, this book contains endless biographical sketches, photographs, transcripts ofspeeches, and replay-by-replay-by-replay-by... well, you get the idea. PastArmy football games are choreographed as carefully as ever our presentday Gettysburg Civil War reenactors might have envied. Even our hardcore you-hadda-been-there Army football lovers may begin to wish that the football anecdotes had been published in a separate Sports Illustrated volume.

This Book Contains Gems

Football and all its frivolity aside, A Return to Glory contains gems. As Howard Carter said upon peering into Tutankhamon’s Tomb, “I see things, wonderful things!”

Nothing ever changes. From my falcon’s-eye view of history, I tabulated in A Return to Glory how many ofthe original problems, questions, and debates rose from the original 1951 scandal and yet have never seen closure. (1) Parents ofdeparted cadets then as now blame their cadets’ expulsions on the “rat-fink” (i.e. non-toleration) clause ofthe honor code. (2)The critics from the 1950s blamed the scandal on society’s “declining moral values.” (3) Some critics blamed the scandal on the competitiveness of the service academy systems one must cheat to survive. (To this day, a curious Borman Commission “cure” for the 1976 USMA honor scandal is to list and graduate both cadets and midshipmen alphabetically rather than by order ofmerit.) (4) Still other historian-critics blame the honor scandal on a hardwired power struggle between the departments of athletics and academics. (5) Yet other critics claimed the honor system was unfairly used to enforce regulations. (6) Finally, some critics have blamed the scandal on the punitive (no-way-out) nature of the honor systems. Familiar criticisms, yet despite 50 years the USMA honor code wording remains intact.

And so the honor systems at all our service academies have been forever altered by that 1951 West Point scandal. All the major players from those days have moved on, many to wartime glory and others to deserved nothingness, but after 50 years these six identical questions have stubbornly remained. The root causes - ifthere be any for dishonesty at the academies are still unvalidated. A Return to Glory presents us with a marvelous challenge that perhaps we had better start some serious scientific searches for these answers. ■

A Return to Glory($41.50) may be ordered through the USMA Gift Shop (800)-426-4725 or from Warwick House Publishers, 720 Court Street, Lynchburg, VA 24504; (800) 846-1200; email whp720@aol.com.

▼ T eekends and Spring Break are all the incentive most college students need to go completely insane. However, some cadets will need to keep their wits about them as they help build a shelter for victims of domestic violence in New Mexico; work at the Boys and Girls Club in Denver; help the homeless in Colorado Springs; and assist disabled kids participating in camp activities in Montana.

‘We do as much as we possibly can,” said Cadet 1st Class William Sosa. “We’re planning on doing summer food drives.”

Sosa is a member of the Catholic Parish Council here, which recently collected approximately 1,000 toys and delivered them to the Denver Children’s Hospital Feb. 5.

“The kids we met were awesome,” said Cadet 2nd Class Christian Paasch, one of five cadet volunteers who delivered the toys. “They were all unbelievably motivated and unbelievably happy despite what was happening to them. It really put things in perspective.” Other members of the council delivered coats, gloves and hats to the homeless in Acacia Park, according to Sosa.

The same weekend, 19 cadets went to the superintendent’s kitchen and baked more than 1,000 cookies for the Marion House Soup Kitchen in Colorado Springs.

“This particular group of people have an innate need to give back to help out their community,” said Capt. Kim Braun, Falcon Squadron Arnold Air Society adviser. “No one is telling them to do this. They blow me away. They are so active, so dedicated. It’s really amazing especially with how busy these cadets are.”

For spring break the Academy Center for Character Development organized three “trips” to give cadets a chance to contribute to their communities.

“In a society where much of the focus is on what we will get in life, this is the opportunity to focus on what we can give,” said Cadet 1 st Class Will Phillips, who is volunteering in Denver. “This project gave us,

VOLUNTEER

“ IN A SOCIETY WHERE MUCH OF THE FOCUS IS ON WHAT WE WILL GET IN LIFE, THIS IS AN OPPORTUNITY TO FOCUS ON WHAT WE CAN GIVE...”

BY

JENNIFER. BRUGMAN/ACADEMY SPIRIT STAFF

■ volunteerism cont.

as cadets, the opportunity to experience the intrinsic benefits of putting the needs of others before our own.”

These activities are not due to a sudden rash of cadet volunteerism. The Catholic Parish Council began organizing the toy drive before Christmas. They were assisted in their efforts by cadets without religious affiliations, Colorado Springs civilians, and the Protestant volunteer organization.

“It was pretty cool,” Paasch said ofthe delivery. “I didn’t know what to expect, but the kids we saw were all doing really well—emotionally.”

‘We prayed a lot about how we could use our resources,” Sosa said of their work with the homeless. “We would like to get enough people together to head up to Denver to help the homeless there. We’re hoping as the years go on it’ll just grow and grow.”

The Arnold Air Society, which sponsored the cookie baking, has more than 150 members who have clocked 1,700 hours of volunteer time in 22 service projects.

“One of the cadets had this idea that around Valentine’s Day we could give them a sweet surprise,” Braun said. “We had cadets who had never baked before but by the end they were all whizzes.”

THIS PROJECT GAVE US, AS CADETS, THE OPPORTUNITY TO EXPERIENCE THE INTRINSIC BENEFITS OE PUTTING THE NEEDS OE OTIC ERS BEFORE OUR OWN..”

“This was also when Denver schools had their spring break, so the number ofyouth who participated was much larger than normal,” Phillips said. “This opportunity allowed cadets to practice the Air Force core value of service before self and build some mentoring type relationships with some ofDenver’s youth.”

The Arnold Air Society is a ROTC organization dedicated to building relationships between the community and the Air Force. They help out the veterans’ hospitals, YMCA and the Red Cross shelter downtown. They will help repaint the Youth Outreach Center later this year.

The Alternative Spring Break program in Denver consisted

of approximately 10-15 cadets volunteering to help staffthe various branches of Denver’s youth activity centers. They led field trips and organized daily game tournaments.

“I guess it’s because we’re blessed with so much here,” Sosa said. “Getting out in the community, you really see how much you have. It’s not all that hard, either. When you have people who are out to help, a lot can get done.”*

■ C1C Adams Wins Prestigious Award For Character Development

C1C Catherine Adams was presented the Malham Wakin Character Development Award at this year’sAOG-sponsored National Character and Leadership Symposium. The award honors BGen (Ret) Mai Wakin’s 40 years of impacting every cadet’s character development as Head of the Department of Philosophy. Cadet Adams earned this award for initiating several projects that were designed to increase not only cadet character development but also under-privileged children’s character development and self-confidence. She created 72 new positions for cadets through the Cadet Service Learning Program that is designed to support community service projects. She organized the Cadet for a Day Program (See “Honoring the Human Spirit” on page 37.) and set up a fundraiser that raised over $3600 from the Cadet Wing to support the program. C1C Adams also started the Operation Hope Program that brought underprivileged children to the Air Force-CSU football game and matched them with cadets for the day. She served as the Third Group Public Affairs Representative and was handpicked to be the spring semester commander for the Soaring Squadron. While competing in the National Cross Country Soaring Championships, she set three state records.

100th

Night

"Only the

BY JENNIFER BRUGMAN ACADEMY SPIRIT STAFF

With 100 days until graduation, the firsties disappear for a night to let the four degrees run amok and show their “appreciation” for the elder classmen.

C1C Matt Ziemann, a member of the falcon team, came home to bird feathers covering his side of the room. The floor was also covered with paper cups filled with water. Water wasn’t the only decorative tool used Feb. 23.

“Streamers, balloons, and daisy chains attached to the ceilings,” said Firstclassmen Melanie Ecung and Jamie Flood of their room. “The four degrees rigged the room with twine so that no one could enter. They also strung pretzels (their favorite snack) along the twine.”

Each room was given a unique and personal touch.

“I was told that the firstie I was assigned to was a computer hacker,” said C4C Monique Foster-Loggins. “So I made a dummy, squirted it with ketchup for the blood, and made it look like the firstie’s computer monitor killed it. Then I put up a few signs saying, ‘Computer Hacker killed by his own computer!”’

The destruction was all in good fun as firsties were expecting it.

“When I came back to my room, my initial perception over what had been set up in the hallway didn’t make me feel good about what surprise waited in my room,” said C1C Alexander White. “They had taken the Assault Course sign and sandbagged it outside of my room. In addition to that, there were about 20 or so sandbags piled up in front of my door, complete with sand all over the hallway. I had to move them one by one just to get into the room. I was a little hesitant, but when I opened the door, I was very surprised. Sheets had been set on the floor, underneath the extra sandbags put inside the room. Postings of rope had been draped on the wall and hitched to the floor, just like the tents during 2nd Basic Cadet

Strong Survive"

“There’s a lot of pride there, and I won’t ever forget my 100th Night experience.”

Training. Barbwire decorated the walls, and above the closets, the sign ‘ONLY THE STRONG SURVIVE’ had been posted up. Complete with all the little details, the room was decorated over with Deep Rock water bottles, plastic Mitchell Hall utensils, cadet issue sleeping bags, and a Jack’s Valley issued locker case with all of my necessary uniform items in it. Across my valet mirrors was written, ‘BECAUSE I SAID SO,’ in mock of the briefings I had given the Class of 2003. It was really incredible the time and effort that went into setting the room up.”

White had a special reason for enjoying his new room decor.

“I really appreciated the effort. It was awesome and emotional for me. When I had been selected to be the 2nd BCT Group Commander, my heart was set on working the Valley. There’s nothing I wanted more. When my father passed away during my command, I resigned. I missed not being able to work and enjoy 2nd BCT. The four degrees from my squadron and team really brought it back and made it happen for me. One of them even told me the next day, ‘Since you couldn’t be there for 2nd BCT, we brought Jack’s Valley to you.’ There’s a lot ofpride there, and I won’t ever forget my 100th Night experience.” ■

BONG CLASS HONORS CLASS EXEMPLARS

By Cadet 3rd Class Kenyatta Ruttin

% Mr np 1 :

fhe Cadet Exemplar Program is an avenue for each Academy class to honor and identify with a past military icon. As such, the heroes who are chosen epitomize the personal characteristics that each class of cadets seeks to emulate. The selected class exemplar not only becomes the cadets’ honorary class leader, but the very namesake and identity ofthat particular class. Throughout the cadets’ career, the exemplar becomes the focal point of inspiration as they prepare for their roles as Air Force officers and future leaders.

Lt. Gen. Tad Oelstrom, former Academy Superintendent, officially announced that the Class of 2003’s exemplar would be Maj. Richard “Dick” Ira Bong after the class was recognized as full members of the cadet wing March 18, 2000. The Bong Class as they are now known honored their class exemplar at a cadet exemplar dinner in Mitchell Hall. The class invited Marge Bong Drucker, Bong’s widow, and Dr. Willis Hawkins, former assistant secretary ofthe Army and design engineer of the P-38, P-80, F-117 and numerous other aircraft, as their special guests. Also in attendance at the dinner were other members of the Bong family, Lt. Gen. John Dallagher (Academy Superintendent) Brig. Gen. Mark Welsh (Commandant of Cadets) and Lt. Col. Bob Swain, Class of 1979, who is the first A-10 pilot to achieve an air-to-air kill.

Bong is America’s leading ace ofall time with 40 confirmed kills in the Pacific during World War II and he is a Medal of Honor recipient. Bong was killed while test-flying the Lockheed P-80 Shooting Star on Aug. 6, 1945 due to an engine failure immediately after take-off.

“Maj. Bong represents more than just the ideals that we would like to embody, he represents the very values of the United States armed services and of this great nation,” said Cadet 3rd Class Giles Whiting, class president, during his opening remarks.

After dinner, Hawkins shared a personal story about Bong. Hawkins described Bong as a wispy haired ace with a kind word. He reflected on those final moments of Bong’s life with the cadets, challenging them to live the same life ofdedication, loyalty and servitude to the country as Bong did. Bong’s widow and his sister, Joyce Erickson, unveiled a display case as an ensemble of third classmen sung “High Flight” in the background.

“This is one ofthe greatest honors Dick has ever received,” Erickson said. The display is now located in the Hall ofExemplars in Fairchild Hall with other exemplar display cases. The evening concluded with the singing of the third verse of the Air Force Song.

Marge Bong Drucker gave a slide show presentation to a class during M5, a one-hour period during M-days dedicated to military training or professional development. Her presentation outlined her late husband s short, but distinguished, career. “Her presentation gave us a better appreciation ofwho Maj. Bong was as a person,” said Cadet 3rd Class Scott Mears.

Following the presentation, Swain shared some ofthe challenges he faced in the GulfWar with the class, but more importandy, he showed how the characteristics ofBong can lead cadets through challenges they are going to face in their careers as the nation’s next generation ofaerospace leaders.

The goal ofthe Bong Class is to uphold those characteristics highlighted by Bong’s life ofcourage, selflessness, confidence and commitment. These core character traits will be linked to the Bong Class while at the Academy and more importantly, throughout the rest of their lives. The Bong Class’ core values enhance and amplify the Air Force’s Core Values of Integrity First, Service Before Self and Excellence in all we do.

OFFENSIVE PLAYER OF THE YEAR AWARD

Mountain West Conference Offensive

Player of the Year quarterback Mike Thiessen graduated this year, leaving a hole in the Falcon lineup. Head coach Fisher DeBerry will be forced to make a tough decision before the season opener against defending national champion Oklahoma as three quarterbacks looked good in spring practice—Senior Keith Boyea, Junior Bryan Blew, and Sophomore Chance Harridge.

ut of this

USAFA GRADUATES AIMING HIGHER THAN THE SKY

by Jessica Eberhart

Col. Susan Helms, ’80, and Lt. Col. James Kelly, ’86, played integral roles in the most recent space mission to the International Space Station (ISS). Speaking of roles, one ofthe first voices heard at the 25 March 2001 Academy Awards Ceremony came from “out of this world.” Col. Helms introduced host Steve Martin via satellite from the ISS just 15 days into the four-month mission of Expedition Two.

Lt. Col. Kelly is the pilot who delivered Helms and the rest of the Expedition Two crew to the ISS. This was his first space flight. Kelly has logged more than 1,500 flight hours in more than 35 different aircraft. He has served as an F-15 Eagle training instructor and a test pilot and, in April 1996, was selected for astronaut training.

Helms has been a NASA astronaut since 1991 and this is her fifth space flight. She, along with astronaut James Voss and cosmonaut Yury Usachev, replaced a three-man crew that occupied the ISS from 31 October until 17 March. This was the first crew exchange for the station.

The Discovery lifted off from Kennedy Space Center on 8 March and docked with the ISS 10 March. Expedition Two spent seven days aboard Discovery; the crew exchange was complete on 14 March. Helms, Voss and Usachev are scheduled to return home aboard the Space Shuttle Endeavour in July, following the second crew exchange.

On March 11, before the crew exchange, Helms and Voss worked for eight hours and 56 minutes to reconfigure the outside of the ISS. This was NASA’s longest ever space-walk.

Each day the crew awakes to a song that holds special meaning to a member. On March 13, Tom Petty’s ‘Tree Fallin’” played at Helms’ request. Kelly’s family chose an Irish tune, “The Rising ofthe Moon” to play on March 16 in honor ofSt. Patrick’s Day.

The ISS orbits the Earth at an altitude of 238 statute miles, or 384 km, and is already larger than any space station in history. During the mission, Expedition Two will conduct 18 different experiments on the following: the human body in space, space radiation, observations of the Earth, crystal growth in weightlessness and plant growth in space. ■

“For Jimmy, it was one of the highlights on March 8 when he was a Cadet for a Day, a new program to give sick children the chance to get a close look at the Academy.”

Text by John Diedrich The Colorado Springs Gazette

Dressed in a custom-made Air Force flight suit, Jimmy Bui peered up from his wheelchair, andhiseyesgrewlaigerasAcademycadetEddie Knox floated down under a parachute, landingjust 20 feet away.

Knox pulled offhis helmet and gloves, walked over to Jimmy and stooped to greet the 17-year-old Colorado Springs boy who has been diagnosed with hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, a heart condition doctors expect will claim his life within six months.

“Is that fun?” Jimmy asked.

“Oh yeah,” Knox said. “It’s fun every time.”

For Jimmy, it was one of the highlights on March 8 when he was a Cadet for a Day, a new program to give sick children the chance to get a close look at the Academy.

The Academy organized the program in coordination with the Make A Wish Foundation, which grants wishes to terminally ill children. Jimmy took a trip to Hawaii as part ofhis wish, but he has always loved airplanes so he was chosen to be a cadet for a day. Jimmy’s brother, Michael, 19, who has the same disease, came along.

Lt. Col. Bob Nissen, commander of the 557th Flying Training Squadron, pitched the program based on the “pilot for a day” for sick children at other bases. He hopes the Academy can do the same for seven or eight kids every year.

‘You want to give a kid a day to forget how sick they are,” he said.

HONORING the HUMAN SPIRIT

When children are pilots for a day, they get custom flight suits. Many ofthe children who later died asked to be buried in the flight suits, Nisson said. “That gets you,” he said.

Cadet CathyAdams (see page 33) organizedJimmy’s visit and fund-raising needed to pay for the flight suit and other items he received.

Adams said seeing Jimmy’sjoy helped her realize cadets often get wrapped up in their own lives at the Academy. “This gives you a sense of what is important,” she said.

Jimmy’s day began with a tour of the airfield, where his name was painted on a glider and cadets performed aerobatics high above. Along the way, Jimmy’s hosts showered him with hats, flight scarfs, coins and other military gear. Watching Knox and other cadets parachute was a highlight, Jimmy said.

‘I just want that to be me,” he said

Jimmy then went up to the cadet area where he met SquadronFour, which gave the most forhis visit and sponsoredhim. The squadronpushedJimmy’s wheelchairinto Mitchell Hall for lunch as all 4,000 cadets marched in.

From the staff tower, the balcony that overlooks the massive dining area, Adams introduced Jimmy, who had been nicknamed Blue Skies, to the Cadet Wing. The cadets stood and clapped for a minute, far longer than they applauded for Dallas Cowboy and former cadet Chad Hennings, who also was present.

As they clapped, Jimmy waved and saluted the cadets. Then Adams lifted Jimmy to the microphone and he said: “Wing, take seats!” ■

A and a lesson learned

By CICs

Jennifer Reed and Katie Vreuls

H"ow many ofus can’twait to get out ofthis place? How many ofus have said we would never do it all over again? I know I’m guilty of both of .these statements a hundred times over. In the last issue ofthe Warrior Update in the Terrazzo Talk column, someone remarked that ifhe could be any other cadet, he’d want to be a three-degree because it wouldn’t be too late to leave. It’s amazing to me how much cynicism exists here, yet no one ever talks about the good things, much less tries to change things for the better.

For all who knew Austin Jay-Buck Cohen, better known as A.J., this article is to remind you. And for everyone out there that didn’t know him, I hope you can take a little out ofit and realize how grateful we should be and how many little things there are just to smile about.

A.J. started with us in June of 1997 as a Rat in CS-33. He was the kid that made BCT somewhat bearable. It’s hard to forget that goofy grin that had everyone wondering what was so great about life that he couldn’t stop smiling. I loved being around him but I never quite pinpointedwhy until after he passed away this last Decernber. A few ofhis close friends sat down after we heard the news and couldn’t recall a single time when A.J. was in a bad mood or not trying his hardest to get everyone else out oftheirs. He had his bad days like everyone else, but even then he was always making a joke and loving life.

It’s interesting to imagine what the Academy would be like if we all woke up every morning thankful to be here - if we just took the time to make the best of the situation we’re in and the opportunities we’re given. A.J. tried his hardest to stay here but found out he was going to have to leave at the end of his sophomore year. He was extremely upset. He had tears in his eyes, yet in the same breath, laughed and said, “Looks like we’re having a party!” And for everyone who went to that party and saw him for the last time there, what an awesome parting memory to have ofhim.

A.J came out to visit in August ofthis past year. I remember talking to him and complaining about how down I get here. He looked at me and said, “I’d give anything to be graduating with you guys.” I didn’t think about it too much at the time, but have thought about it everyday since his death. And amazingly, it’s made my time here much more enjoyable. I would go through all of this a million times over ifhe could be here with us, as I’m sure mostpeople thatknew him would. Itjust seems trivial to me to complain about this briefing or that parade or cleaning for a SAMI when we take a step back and look at what we have to be thankfiil for. Even the sourest cadet enjoys privileges and freedoms that even many civilians don’t; we go to school and have made life-time friends without the burden of student loans or after-school jobs. We never worry about the quality of our education, what sort ofjob will await us when we finallygraduate, ifwe’ll have money forfood or rent, or ifwe’ll ever see our friends. We also know the contribution we’ll make in our lives will be worthwhile. Few can say they dedicated even part oftheir lives for someone or something else.

Withonly a fewdaysuntiltheClassof2001 graduates, Ithink it’s importantto realizewherewe’ve come from, whatattitudes we take intotherealAirForce, andhowmuch we have to be thankful for. It’s also important to realize how fortunate we really are. Not everyone has the things we have, and cynicism brings disrespect to ourselves and those who wish they were in our places. A.J. was asked to write something in the game program for his final football game as a senior at the University ofDayton. The last line reads, “7 hope that at some point I did something to make everyone smile and have a good day. I feel like we can all learn something from these words, which should give everyone who didn’t know A.J. an idea ofwhat he was about. This article is sincerely dedicated to our friend A.J. Cohen and his friends who keep him alive bywearing a smile even when times get tough. ■

“This was the 12th time a formation of cadets has marched down Pennsylvania Avenue to salute a newly-inaugurated president.”

CadetsRepresent 3 With Distinction

BY C/Lt Col Eric Hendrickson, CS 33 Squadron

Commander

On 20 January 2001, a formation of83 cadets represented the Air ForceAcademy in the 54th Presidential Inauguration Parade. The contingent was composed of 24 cadets from Cadet Squadron 33, the Outstanding Squadron for 1999-2000, as well as several cadets from each ofthe other 35 cadet squadrons. This was the 12th time a formation of cadets has marched down Pennsylvania Avenue to salute a newly-inaugurated president.

The cadets’ participation in the parade did not just simply entail marching. Prior to departing for Washington, the contingent spent countless hours practicing their marching and rifle manual. Once in D.C., however, the hours of sacrifice were rewarded. During the three days spent in the D.C. area, the parade practices and preparation were interspersed with countless opportunities for fun. Nearly all ofthe cadets took advantage ofthe opportunity to tour the Washington and Annapolis areas. However, unlike most tourists, the cadets were also given a unique opportunity to tour the Pentagon and Air Force 2. One cadet even participated in several inaugural celebrations: CadetFirst Class ChrisWilsonrepresentedtheAcademy by attending both the Republican Party Presidential Inauguration Celebration and the 54th Presidential Inaugural Ball. “It was an unbelievable opportunity to meet in person the new Commander in Chief and Vice President Dick

Cheney. But to be honest, the best part was dancing with Miss Florida.”

The day of the parade brought typical East Coast weather for this time of year: temperature in the 40s with a consistent light rain. Fortunately, there were warming tents available for parade participants for the several hours prior to the beginning of the parade. Unfortunately, the parade participants were not able to remain in the tents during the parade’s two-hour delay due to protestors in the parade route. However the spirit of the cadets was high because, unlike the nearby performers from the state of Hawaii, they were not wearing sandals and grass skirts.

“In spite of the harsh weather, I was warmed by the thought of knowing I was one of the first to salute our new Commander and Chief,” said Cadet First Class Donte Tanner, Contingent Guidon Bearer.

The parade itself was an interesting mix of military units and such groups as the Aspen Precision Lawn Chair Drill Team and college marching bands. Of the military units however, the cadets represented the Academy with distinction.!

Editor’s note: In a special morning ceremony the AOG presented each cadet a commemorative coin highlighting their participation in the Inauguration.

In today’s more diverse military, communication and understanding between those with different backgrounds can be a challenge. Col. Thomas Berry, Center for Character Development deputycommander, told cadets at the beginning ofthe Respect and Responsibiltyworkshop held last Fall in the Arnold Hall ballroom that theywould see wonderful examples ofleadership in their military career and that theywould see events that aren’t so wonderful.

The Respect and ResponsibiltyWorkshop, sponsored by the Center for Character Development, is an afternoon-long set ofexercises and lectures designed to teach cadets to look at life from another point of view. “We’re going to teach you the same thing your moms and grandmothers taughtyou,’’ Berry said. He then listed attributes like sharing, being respectful and polite. In order to reinforce some ofthese life lessons, cadets participated in a variety ofexercises, including lowering a hula - hoop to the ground with the tips oftheir fingers as a group. It’s harder than it sounds. Master Sgt. GaryAdcox, Center for Character Development superintendent, worked with a group ofapproximately 10 cadets who took four tries and wandered around before they accomplished the feat. The trick to the hula-hoop is observation, according to Adcox.

“It’s not just me anymore,” said Adcox. “You have to concentrate on what you’re doing and what everyone else is doing. Next, cadets were asked to blow up a balloon. Also harder than it sounds, many cadets found this to be the most difficult part of the day.They then wrote a thought on the balloon that represents a good team. Words like trust, openness, dedication, common goals, cooperation, friendship, respect, understanding and communication were written on balloons and then the balloons were put into a bag representing the team.

The cadets were asked to keep the bag aloft as long as possible by hitting it but they couldn’t hit the bag again untill someone else touched it. The bag stayed in the air for 54 hits. Adcox then put two water balloons in the bag to represent things like a negative attitiude, disrespect, cynicism, and discrimination. With the water balloons, the cadets kept the bag in the air for seven hits. “Life happens,” Adcox said. “You as a leader are going to have to deal with that.”

He then asked cadets how to make the bag or team work again.

“Take the water out ofthe balloons and blow them up again,” said Cadet 2nd Class Richard Hollinger. “In other words, try to find the best qualities in the worst person,” said Adcox.

The entire afternoon consisted ofexercises like these, which are designed to give cadets a new perspective on leadership and those around them. “The workshop opened my eyes to some of the things we all do without being aware of it, whether it be our competitiveness impeding teamwork, various prejudices or assumptions we tend to make without thinking,” said Cadet 2nd Class Kristin Wenner. “I thought it was very productive.” We didn’t listen to lectures all day but still got involved enough to take somethinggood away from the workshop.”

The big exercise ofthe afternoon consisted ofthe formation of two cadet cultures that had to learn to understand one another.

At the end ofthe exercise cadets were asked to describe the other culture. Words like materialistic, chaotic, aggressive, simple, primitive, violating, confusing, competitive, hierarchical and communist were used. Wenner feels the exercises have caused her to be more aware ofwhat she and others say and do in all situations.

“It comes down to a matter ofcharacter,” Adcox said. “I guess I want them to have a better understanding ofhow human relations play into the leadership part ofwhat they’re going to be doing as officers in the Air Force. I want them to be better leaders than I had and I was.”«

The 34th Operations Group is coming upon its peak season, plunging into this summer’s jump and soaring programs full force. The competition successes that both the 94 FTS and 98 FTS have earned this last year will continue to set the standard for our top-notch programs in the future. The summer of 2001 will be an exciting one, as it will see hundreds of cadets receive their jump and soaring wings. We are also proud to announce the upcoming fleet replacement for the 94 FTS, which will undoubtedly facilitate our mission of providing the nation with its future leaders.

The 94 Flying Training Squadron, home of the Cadet Soar-for-All program, and the USAFA Flying team heads into summer 2001 with an eye on flying over half the cadet wing. Our goal is to solo everyone who shows up to fly! We’ve had a busy year already and will soon begin our summer push. The replacement process for all 94 FTS aircraft will begin with the sailplane fleet in October. Shortly following, we expect to begin the motorglider replacement (November 01).

Airmanship 251 is the US Air Force Academy’s primary flying program for cadets. Since July 2000 we have flown 750 USAFA cadets and over 150 ROTC cadets without a single injury. Airmanship 461, our cadet instructor training program is a 95-flight checkout program to become a sailplane IP. Cadets do 95 percent ofthe instructing on the airfield. This year 81 cadets became soaring instructors. We also have two advanced programs: AM 474 (Cross Country) and AM 475 (Acrobatics). The Cross Country team competes nationally and spends several weeks on the road each year. For the year of 2000, we were named the Collegiate Soaring Association Champions. We earned the title of Top Collegiate Team in two regional competitions and the World Gliding Championships.

3 4 T H OPERATIONS GROUP

We also support the cadet Flying Team. This year proved to be very successful for our nationally competitive team. We swept all categories at the Birchall Cup Airskills Competition in 2000. We placed first at Region 1 SAFECON, earning both Top Pilot and Top Female Pilot. We earned second place at Region 2 SAFECON, bringing home the Safety Award as well as Top IFR Pilot. These winnings were in addition to upgrading four cadets to Mission Pilot/NIFA Competitor in the C-150 (a primary competition aircraft), and instituting an IFR training program using newly-acquired PC-based training devices (simulators). With all of these accomplishments under our belt, we are continuing to strive for excellence in 2001. With the upcoming sailplane and motorglider fleet replacements, our mission to motivate cadets in flying training programs will be even more

effective—developing leadership, confidence, and self-esteem through solo flight, advanced programs, and competition flying.

Every summer approximately 600 cadets get the chance tojump from a “perfectly good airplane” in Airmanship 490, USAFA’s Basic Parachuting Course. This is the only parachuting course in the world where a student’s firstjump is an unassisted 10-second free fall. Graduates of AM-490 earn basic parachute wings and the chance to compete for entry into AM491/2, a one-year-long, highly intensive parachute instructor course whose graduates become members of the Wings of Blue parachute team.. Surveys of USAFA graduates indicate AM-490 is one of the two best programs at USAFA in terms of preparing them for a career in the Air Force.

The 98 FTS recently capped off one of the most successful competition seasons in the team’s history. The crown jewel this season was the cadets winning the National Collegiate Parachuting Championships for the 25th time out of 33 years—an achievement no other school has accomplished in any sport. C1C Marion Knapp won the top award “National Collegiate Champion” and was the first female to accomplish this. She followed a distinguished list of 219 former AFA Collegiate Parachuting National Champions. Other 98 FTS cadets and staff won numerous awards and medals throughout the competition season to inelude being members ofteams representing the United States at the World Championships and CISM (World Military Championships). While the competition team was out winning medals, the demonstration team was out spreading the good word about the Air Force and the Air Force Academy by performing before millions of spectators both live and on television. The team performs at air shows throughout the country at such high-profile events as the Fiesta Bowl, LPGA Golf tournaments, NFL Football and Major League Baseball games. No other group at the Air Force Academy is required to perform on the hill, academically and militarily, teach a life-or-death activity, and win national recognition. After a successful 2000, the 34th Operations Group is looking forward to an even more successful 2001. ■

Starting in fiscal year 2001, theAir Force commissioning sources will have 50 to 75 fewer pilot slots per year. The Air Force Academy will lose its fair share.” brjg. gen. welsh

PILOT SLOTS REDUCED

Pilot training slots forAcademy cadets will shrink by a handful during the next five years, due to the needs ofthe Air Force.

“Starting in fiscal year 2001, the Air Force commissioning sources will have 50 to 75 fewer pilot slots per year. The Academy will lose its fair share of those,” said Brig. Gen. Mark Welsh, commandant ofcadets.

Gradual reductions in pilot slots for cadets will continue for the next five fiscal years, but the change for the Academy is only a handful ofslots, and never dips below 524. In total, 350 slots will be reallocated from Air Force commissioning sources to the pilot candidate pool over the next five fiscal years. That reduction is aimed at reducing the pool of pilots awaiting training to a more manageable level.

The Air Force has been producing around 1,283 pilot candidates per year, yet has between 500 and 1,000 commissioned officers currendywaiting six to 14 months to enter pilot training at any given time. The Air Forces goal is to reduce a pilot candidates waiting time to less than six months.

“The Academy is still by far, the best opportunity for a young person to enter Air Force pilot training,” Welch said during a recent briefing to the Class of 2001. “In the very worst case scenario, 85 percent of our pilot-qualified cadets will get to go to pilot training. In the best case, 100 percent will get the opportunity to go.”

Other commissioning sources such as the Reserve OffleerTraining Corps sent approximately 25 percent ofits year 2000 crop to pilot training, while officer training school sent only 12 percent active duty and reserve commissionees from 2000 to pilot training. For this May’s graduating class, 561 firstclassmen are pilot qualified, and 550 pilot training slots are available. Academy officials are working the issue and expect to get all 561 into pilot training.

The worst case scenario for the Class of2002 is that the Academy has 139 more cadets than it has training slots allocated. However, that doesn’t take into account historic class attrition, or

pilot-qualified cadets selecting a non-pilotjob. Historically, around seven percent of pilot qualified cadets select a militaryprofession other than piloting. But even with reductions and other selections factored in, the Academy still expects to have more cadets wanting pilot training than it has slots.

“Cadets will have to compete for available slots, and that’s simply a matter ofsupply and demand,” Welsh said, “and we will use the current Air Force Specialty Code selection process.”

“For those cadets whose goal is piloting, they still control their own destiny. There is still time to improve their chances of earning a pilot training slot,” Welsh said. To do so, they need to “perform as well as they can in everything they do here at the Air Force Academy, whether it is academics, athletics, military training or aviation programs.”

Previous pilot training slot reductions at the Academy have been far more severe. The Academy sent more than 500 cadets annually to pilot training during the late 1980s. But as the 1990s hit, the Academy’s numbers dropped to 465 in 1991; 442 in 1992; 262 in 1993; 224 in 1994; 225 in 1995; and bottomed out at 213 in 1996. The number ofcadets sent to pilot training rose in the late 1990s to 366 in 1997; 430 in 1998; 414 in 1999; and 561 last year. Other sources also felt the impact ofreduced pilot training slots during the 1990s. While the Academy suffered through a mere 225 pilot training slots in 1995, ROTC cadets received zero slots that same year. However, pilot training isn’t the only combat aircrew job available to cadets. Two ofthe other options are undergraduate navigator training and air battle manager training. Typically, the Academy has around 40 navigator slots per class.

“I suspect that because we have a hard allocation for pilot training slots, we will have more cadets going to undergraduate navigator training, which is a good thing for the Air Force, Welsh said. “Navigator training is a great slot to have and people ought to be very happy when they get it. The Air Force needs navigators in a number of airplanes and we’ve got some quality folks to send into that training.” ■

a The Integrity of a ^Warrior’s Honor”

NATIONALCHARACTER AND nets

By Jennifer Brugman Academy Spirit Staff

he meaning of integrity, honor, character, leadership and the definition of a “warrior” were discussed here March 7-9 at the 8th annual National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS).

TThe theme ofthis year’s NCLS was “The Integrity of a Warrior’s Honor.” Speakers included Chad Hennings ‘80, former Dallas Cowboys football player; Rob Perkins, Arctic adventurer; Navy Seal team members and Army Special Forces instructors.

The student consortiums began in the afternoon March 8 with another session Friday morning. College students from across the country came to the symposium and participated in the consortium. After hearing a presentation, the students would break into small groups and discuss their ideas.

Gen. (Ret) Ron Fogleman speaks to the cadet wing about the importance of character and integrity to the profession of arms.

The diverse background ofthe attendees contributed to the debates.

The consortium Friday started with C1C Erik Holzherr speaking about two paintings he created for his art classes here.

One image pictured a young female staring calmly out from the canvas while hands tug her face, pull her hair and offer her flowers.

“Character is the number one trait I look for in a model,” Holzherr said. “Individuality, comfort with self—admitting to their positive and negative traits—that’s character.”

He said in this painting, the woman is remaining calm in the face of society’s judgement of her. This is a sign of her character, Holzherr said.

During the question and answer period, a man asked whether the victory symbol above the woman’s head symbolizes her victory over society by not being taken in by their judgements or whether society is forcing this woman to celebrate

society’s control over her.

“Mostly they represent bunny ears,” Holzherr replied, to the crowd’s amusement.

The second student presentation was by U.S. Naval Academy Midshipman Llewellyn Evans who presented a paper on Roman Emperor Marcus Aurelius. He became interested in Aurelius because of the movie “Gladiator.”

“He was termed the reluctant emperor because he didn’t want to rule Rome,” Evans said. Aurelius was remarkable because of his compassion for the soldiers who fought for him, according to Evans. “He led from his heart. He stayed at the front lines during conflict and took the same pains as his men did. He would often get out of bed and sleep on the floor so he would know what his men were going through.”

Evans considers Aurelius to be a warrior despite the fact that he never engaged in conflict.

“Living life in a certain way,” Evans said, is one ofthe traits of a warrior. Other traits Evans listed included staying on a spiritual path; combining tangible goals with truth and spirit. ■

MJore than 250 cadets armed with paint brushes, rollers and tape formed up at the front parking lot of the Colorado Springs Youth Outreach Center on April 27th.

They were tasked with painting the exterior and interior of the 125,000 square foot building located near downtown. “The center really needs a face-lift,” said Terry Hooper, executive director for the center. “The cadets out here are doing an incredible service for us and we really appreciate it,” he said.

The Arnold Air Society at the Academy organized the community service project. The society is a nation-wide service organization made up of members that actively participate in community service projects across the country. “Not everyone out here is a member of the Arnold Air Society,” said C3C George Eldridge of Cadet Squadron 6. Eldridge is the deputy commander ofthe Academy’s Arnold Air Society. “But everyone out here is a volunteer and we’ve got a great turnout today, 1 just hope it doesn’t rain,” he said.

The cadets hoped to paint the entire building in about two hours. “I think they’ll be able to do it. They’re hard workers,” Hooper said. The cadets will save the center approximately $50,000 by painting the center. “We’ll be able to use

others the community and other people...”

uThe cadets out here are doing an incredible m service for us and we really appreciate it.”

I think it’s a good way to help out

By Supunnee Ulibarri Academy Spirit Staff

the money to support many other youth programs and events,” he said.

The Youth Center is a nonprofit organization that raises money for programs within the Colorado Springs community. The center also hosts various activities for “at-risk” youth.

“I feel good about being out here. 1 actually like to paint, too,” said volunteer C4C Aylett Hughes of Cadet Squadron 4. “1 think it’s a good way to help out the community and other people,” he said. Hughes and two of his fellow classmates were painting the inside of the center. “This is a good way to get out into the community and hang out with friends while also doing something positive. This is fun and we’re doing something that helps others,” said C4C Sarah L. Shields of Cadet Squadron 31.

Community service wasn’t just limited to the youth center.

In addition, a number ofcadets also took the streets ofthe Adams neighborhood located in downtown Colorado Springs during the annual “Christmas in April” campaign. Volunteers cleaned up, repaired and did various handyman projects on homes of senior citizens who are unable to do the repairs themselves. ■

The Lons Roa to success

j§ DFM, the Department ofManagement, had been considering pursuing accreditation since the formation ofthe department. In 1994-95 the Dean, Brig. Gen. Ruben Cubero, stressed the importance ofexternal review and validation. DF encouraged departments to develop relationships with professional bodies in their area ofexpertise wherever possible. At the time ofthis direction, the following majors at USAFA were accredited: Aeronaudeal Engineering, Astronautical Engineering, Civil Engineering, Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Engineering Sciences, Chemistry, Biochemistry, and Computer Science.

Accreditation became more important when civilians were added to USAFA faculty. Accredited schools are expected to attract and retain higher quality civilian faculty. Accreditation was not only important for faculty, but also for the cadet population. Management majors perceived that this major was not as important or well respected as accredited majors. Management majors wanted to have the opportunity to form an honor society like those associated with the engineering majors. This could not be done until DFM became a candidate for accreditation.

So, DFM made the decision to pursue accreditation. The Dean concurred with the decision to seek accreditation in Fall 1995 and pledged support for DFMs accreditation efforts. The accrediting body for programs in management and business is the International Association for Management Education (also known as AACSB). This body is the best known and most widely respected source ofaccreditation for schools of management and business. AACSB accepted DFMs accreditation plan and DFM entered the candidacy process in fall 1997 with an accreditation visit scheduled for spring 2001.

On 4 February 2001, DFM hosted a team that conducted a final American Assembly of Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) Accreditation Review. [The acronym AACSB refers to the American Assembly ofCollegiate Schools of Business and the International Association for Management Education.] This visit represented the culmination of many years of effort to obtain this highest, and most prestigious recognition. The results: the review team unanimously recommended initial accreditation for the undergraduate management program. They even gave DFM a ranking of#1 based on the clear support for, and evidence of, high quality in the department.

Col. Rita Jordan Head of the Department of Management

You may be asking yourself what are the benefits of accreditation?

You may be askingyourselfwhat are the benefits ofDFM accreditation? There are several benefits ofaccreditation. First, AACSB accreditation will afford the management major disciplinary accreditation similar to the prestigious national recognition now enjoyed by the engineering majors and chemistrymajors at USAFA. Another benefit is that the Academy will be the first DoD organization to receive business accreditation. With the federal governments focus on “better business practices,” USAFAs accreditation will provide a vital link to the necessary expertise. Thirdly, DFM pursued accreditation because all activities that have been required to obtain it have directly improved department processes by increasing operational efficiency, the development ofbetter assessment tools, and by focusing the department on continuous improvement. Accreditation also enhances DFMs attractiveness to prospective civilian faculty by providing external validation of the management education at USAFA. Finally, AACSB accreditation enhances competitiveness of our cadets for selection to top graduate schools. In some cases, AACSB accreditation will allow DFM graduates to waive up to 30 MBA credit hours—saving them and/or the Air Force many thousands ofdollars.

The Department ofManagement persevered and emerged with a nationally recognized accreditation. The review team was very impressed with the many strengths ofthe faculty, administrators, students, the Department ofManagement overall and its strong commitment to quality management programs. They even noted in their accreditation recommendation that “In many ways, the department is an example of best business practices and should take a leadership role in sharing its processes, metric systems, experiences, and outcomes with the members of the business school community.” We take our hats off to the Department of Management on a job well done! ■

By 1 st Lt. Karen Gregory

Cadets Successfully execute the 43rd Academy Assembly.

By C2C Nicolas Alcocer Cadet Squadron 20

The Academy and the Department of Political Science drew together a broad spectrum oftalent 27 Feb. through 2 March in hosting the 43rd Annual Academy Assembly, an event supported by the AOG. This year’s focus was US policy in the Middle East and was entitled “The Struggle for Peace and Prosperity.”

The student-run Assembly, an annual event since 1959, was co-sponsored by the Academy and Columbia University’s American Assembly. Approximately 150 highly qualified undergraduates from more than 90 universities across North America attended this extraordinary exercise in consensus building and policy making.

Assembly participants engaged in enlightening discussions with distinguished senior participants in academics, business, and government who served as speakers, panelists, and roundtable leaders.

“This created a superior leadership laboratory experience for cadets who planned and executed this major operation,” said cadet director Kathy O’Brien. “Their cumulative efforts promoted a positive image ofthe Air Force and the Academy.”

The assembly provided a forum for meaningful assessment ofmajor international and national issues pertaining to the Middle East, in addition to workshops on consensus building.

From this exercise in diplomacy, the students were able to produce an insightful and valuable final report that will be published and distributed to a large number of academic and government institutions.

The 12-member roundtables- the core ofthe assemblyconsidered questions generated from the assembly theme in order to reach a consensus. Each roundtable built on the previous one, tackling a different aspect ofthe central theme. Delegates from each roundtable met after each session to form consensus opinions and draft their findings for presentation at the closing plenary session.

■ Academy Assembly cont.

To make this a top-notch event with realistic effeet, a diverse group ofscholars, senior government executives, theorists and practitioners who are directly involved in our national policy-makingprocess attended andpresented real issues and concerns.

Dr. Geoffrey Kemp, the Director ofRegional Strategic Programs at the Nixon Center, provided the assembly with a keynote address where he outlined the dominate challenges to US policy in the Middle Eastwithregard to the peace process, Iraq, Iran, and energy security.

In the panel discussion, four distinguished experts from various fields presented their views on the “Iraq Dilemma: The Future of Sanctions.” This forum was moderated by Colonel Douglas Murray, head of the Department of Political Science.

Members ofthe panel consisted ofthe former UN Assistant Secretary General, Dennis Halliday; and Dr. Gary Sick, Executive Director ofGulf/2000 and Acting Director of the Middle East Institute at Columbia University; Dr. Kenneth Allard, Vice-President of STRATFOR Inc. and an NBC/MSNBC commentator; and Mr. Joe Stork, the Middle East Advocacy Director ofHuman Rights Watch.

Ambassador Roscoe Suddarth, President of the Middle East Institute, gave the final banquet address outlining the difficulties faced by the new Bush administration in reinvigoration the peace process and reshaping policy toward Iraq and Iran.

Suddarth has led a distinguished career as the former U.S. Ambassador to Jordan, as well as the former

Deputy Assistant Secretary of State for Near Eastem and South Asian Affairs.

As a lighter side to the assembly, an art display to embody this year’s topic, entitled “Arts and Crafts of the Middle East” was presented by Curator Dr. Pam Chadick from the Department of English.

The display was co-sponsoredbythe assembly, the Association of Graduates; and the Olin, Olmstead, and Falcon Foundations.

Cadet O’Brien described the art show as “one way that we can unify our team and show the public what the assembly is all about.”

In their final report, assembly delegates focused on an array of issues to include the U.S. policytowardthe seemingly intractable peace processes in the Levant; the value of US policy in the Gulfregion and the value ofalternatives to the existing policy of dual containment; and finally, transnational challenges to US interests, including water resources, terrorism, and threat from weapons of mass destruction.

“The assembly was a unique and intellectually stimulating experience that encouraged students from diverse backgrounds to explore methods of seeking commonality and making practical recommendations to U.S. policy-makers,” said O’Brien. “The assembly enriched the education of all the participants.” ■

□ The Catholic Cadet Choir performs at the National Cathedral

The Catholic Cadet Choir toured the Eastern seaboard during Spring Break. Highlights of their trip included performances on the deck of the USS Constitution and at the National Cathedral in Washington, D.C.

COURTESY PHOTO

Talk to most any USAFA graduate who left the Academy prior to 1996 and you will hear the same comment, “I sure wish we had more NCOs at the Academy while I was there.” Since the fall of 1995, comments like this have become a thing ofthe past.

In the early 1990s, the United States Air Force Academy began researching the idea of developing a program aimed at putting cadets into daily contact with enlisted personnel. Academy officials made contact with graduates from past years, and their response was overwhelming: They wished they had more interaction with enlisted personnel while at USAFA. Academy officials continued their research by traveling to the U.S. Military Academy at West Point and the U.S. Naval Academy at Annapolis to study their Tactical NCO programs, which had been up-and-running for several years. Their findings showed a positive impact on the professional development and morale ofArmy’s cadets and Navy’s midshipmen. With the research done, all that was left was to sell the program to those in command.

A proposal for 40 noncommissioned officer manpower authorizations, one for each of the 40 squadrons within the wing, was briefed to Gen. Ronald R. Fogleman, Air Force chief of staff, who gave the program his immediate and enthusiastic support and approval. The NCOs were to be known as Military Training Advisors (MTA) to signify the role envisioned for them at USAFA. With the program sold, the hard part was to now find the right people to fill the job.

The Academy’s training environment is unique, to say the least. Because ofthis, the search for the first 40 MTAs was very selective. Over 200 candidates applied. Applicant packages were evaluated on the basis of diversity of operational experience, leadership skills and experience, duty performance as documented in performance reports and through recognition of exceptional accomplishments in their respective fields, profes-

(continued next page)

“No longer is the term MTL synomous with just cadet squadrons. The NCO corps is now professionally represented by MTLs at all levels and in myriad positions throughout the training wing.”

Msgt. Lou Fisher

sional military education, speaking ability, and overall personal appearance. Applicants making it past this first intensive screening process were then interviewed to further determine their professional qualifications and motivations. The first hires were made and MTAs started arriving at USAFA in the fall of 1995. By January 1996, the program was fully manned and operational and has been going strong ever since.

Five years have gone by since the first 40 enlisted mentors arrived at the Academy. While the basic principles and goals ofthe program haven’t changed, there have been a few modifications, not only to the MTA program, but also to the overall enlisted presence and impact at USAFA. In 1999, the title of the MTA position changed to MTL, for Military Training Leader. On the surface a seemingly minor change, but when considering the full range, capabilities, and impact ofthe NCO, a more appropriate name could not have been picked. The title now more accurately reflects the role ofthe NCO as an Air Force leader, not just as an individual offering advice on the sidelines.

If you look up the duty description for an MTL you will see it described in broad terms. “Advises and coordinates... assists the Air Officer Commanding (AOC)... provides general supervision... provides instruction ...evaluates training.” If you talk to someone in passing about it, they will tell you that an MTL loosely equates to a First Sgt. in the “operational” Air Force; however, that description doesn’t adequately encompass all that an MTL does. The MTL position is one ofthose rare postions in the Air Force that can’t be easily nailed down. You can provide a basic framework and guidelines for what the job will entail, but you can’t rely on that to be your walking orders on a daily basis. MTLs are counselors, not only on professional matters, but those of a personal nature also. They are trainers, not only in the drill and ceremony arena, but in all aspects ofAir Force life. They teach both cadets and officers the importance of the NCO corps and proper NCO—officer professional relations. What it ultimately boils down to, MTLs are the enlisted role models for the entire cadet wing. Every action they take is looked upon and scrutinized by over 4,000 cadets. They are the first and most lasting impression that cadets will have ofthe enlisted corps, and of NCOs in particular.

As MTLs established their presence throughout the cadet wing, USAFA senior leadership took note of their achievements. Positions held and roles previously performed by officers were passed to NCOs. No longer is the term MTL synonymous with just cadet squadrons. The NCO corps is now professionally represented by MTLs at all levels and in a myriad of positions throughout the training wing. From planning and executing Basic Cadet Training (BCT) and Global Engagement (GE) programs, authoring and overseeing Cadet Military Training (CMT), or working at the cadet squadron level, the impact is undeniable. MTLs have not only moved up in positions of responsibility at USAFA, but also in the area ofrespect. Respect for their role at the academy and for the NCO corps they represent.

The MTL program’s continued success is a direct reflection of every NCO, past and present, who has held the position or is now executing the role. Their dedication to the development oftomorrow’s leaders is simply amazing. Talk to an Academy grad from any period after 1996 and you will probably hear some version ofthe following comment, “What do you mean there was a time when NCOs weren’t at USAFA? How did they do it without them?” Amazing what a difference five short years makes! ■

“As MTLs established their presence throughout the cadet wing, USAFA senior leadership took note of their achievements. Positions held and roles previously performed by officers were passed to NCOs.”

ATTENTION IN THE AREA

By Col. Rich Downing (USAF, Ret), ‘70 AOG Vice President, Services

AOG Website is Redesigned

The AOG website at www.aog-usafa.orgrecently had a “facelift.” The opening page has changed and the wide range oftopics and information on the site has increased. For information on development activities, job programs, and more, this is the only web address you need. And for those times you need other sources, we have convenient links to USAFA, Athletics, the other service academies, and the local newspaper.

Register Deadline

A major AOG service is one of providing up-to-date information on graduates through the annual Register of Graduates. The 2001 edition will be mailed to members ofrecord in early November. The biographical information form printed near the center of each magazine should be used on an ongoing basis to update graduate data. Since the individual 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 2001 Register must be received by 1 August 2001.

Inappropriate Use of Register Addresses

We are continually concerned about the misuse of graduate addresses listed in the Registerfor business and political purposes not sanctioned by yourAOG. This is directly in violation ofAOG policy as well as an infringement ofcopyright laws as spelled out on the first page ofthe 2000 Register.

The AOG requests that members notify the Vice President, Information Services, immediatelyofanynon-AOG-sanctioned solicitation they receive where their mailing address was apparently obtained from the Register. TheAOGwill contact the mailer to ascertain howthey obtained your address and take appropriate action.

Graduate-to-Graduate

AOG-mail System In Place

The AOG has an e-mail forwarding system that graduates can use to communicate with other graduates. There is no need to know the email address ofa graduate to sendAOG-mail. The system was pre-loaded with the home e-mail addresses from the AOG database as it existed on Sept. 10, 1999. Graduates may add, change, or delete their e-mail address from AOG-mail. AOG-mail is accessible through the “Graduates” Link on the AOG Web Main Page. Sending e-mail through AOG-mail is straightforward, but only one class may be searched at a time, and that search may be further limited by graduation squadron or name.

There is no automated link between the AOG’s Doolittle Hall database, which holds both home and work e-mail addresses, and the AOGmail database, which holds only one e-mail address; a change to one database will not update the other. Each graduate must update the AOG-mail system and then alert the AOG to change the Doolittle Hall database, and vice versa.

Class Ring Information

Graduates who need to replace, repair or resize their Academy class rings should go directly to the manufacturer. They have the expertise and equipment to repair or replace your ring. Contact them for cost estimates (which vary significantly) or any other questions. The manufacturers and contact information:

lostens

148 East Broadway Owatonna, MN 55060 (800) 852-9353 myersm@jostens.com

Balfour Company

c/o Jess Crane

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

Herff Jones

Classes of 1960, 1962, 1963, 1968, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1973, 1974, 1976, 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, 1981, 1982, 1983, 1984, 1986, 1989, 1990, 1991, 1992, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999

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

>7-0557)

Classes of 1985, 1987, 1988, 226 Public Street 1993, 1995

Providence,RI 02905 (401)331-1240

ArtCarved Class of 2000

7211 Circle S Road

Austin, TX 78745 (1-800-531-5131)

Visitors Center Offers AOG Discount

The AOG is pleased to announce a membership benefit. Through the cooperation of the Academy Athletic Association (AFAAA), all AOG members are eligible to receive a discount on over-the-counter sales at theAcademyVisitors Center Gift Shop (which is operatedbyAFAAA). You only need to show the cashier your AOG membership card to receive your 10 percent discount. This discount was previously extended only to active duty and retired military customers. The discount does not apply to mail orders.

Doolittle Hall Available For Many Special Occasions

Doolittle Hall is available for special functions. To date the AOG has hosted a variety of events: department meetings, retirements, wedding receptions, workshops, cocktail parties, luncheons and formal and informal dinners.

Doolittle Hall can accommodate as many as 300 at a sit-down dinner and more than 500 for a cocktail party.

Available facilities include conference rooms, the library lounge with bar, and outdoor patio area, weather permitting. AOG members receive preferential rates. For information and rates on your specific requirements, please call Jean Bickford at the AOG at (719) 472-0300.

Hiring Companies Wanted

Service Academy Career Conference (SACC)

Seattle, Wash. August 23 - 25,2001

Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas November 1 -3,2001

Is your company hiring? Are you looking for well-educated, well-trained, and motivated workers? If so, graduates of the service academies provide the ideal candidate pool. For access to these candidates, participate in one or more of the upcoming Service Academy Career Conferences (SACC). SACCs are scheduled for Seattle, Wash, on August 2325, 2001 (at the Westin Seattle in downtown Seattle) and Dallas/Fort Worth, Texas on November 1 - 3, 2001 (at the Westin Galleria). You will find service academy graduates are a cost-effective source of new employees with exceptional life and work experiences. For more information about the Service Academy Career Conferences, call Wayne Taylor at (719) 472-0300 or visit our web site at www.aog-usafa.org.

SACC

What is the SACC?

The SACC is the ServiceAcademyCareer Conference supported by the Associations ofGraduates from the U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Military Academy, and Alumni Associations from the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The previous conferences were attended by hundreds of companies and thousands of alumni.

Where will the SACCbe held?

The next SACC will be held at the Westin Seattle in Seattle, Washington. You may obtain a room for the SACC rate, ifavailable. Call (206) 728-1110 for reservations and ask for the SACCrate. There are many other hotels available in the area, or think about renewing relationships with classmates in the area.

How to register for the SACC:

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

2. Ensure your resume is included in the Joint Service Academies Resume Database System (JSARDS). To enter your resume, visit our website at www.aog-usafa.org, click on “graduate job programs” and follow the instructions.

3. Ifyou previously submitted your resume to the Joint Service Academies Resume Database System, please use the password you received to update and verify the information in the system. Recruiters at previous SACCs found having electronic access to resumes extremely helpful. Be sure your resume is accurate and complete.

Service Academy Career Conference

August23-25,2001 Seattle, Washington

4. To participate in the next SACC, send the following to the SACC office no later than July 22,2001:

a. Completed registration form

b. A $25 registration fee, payable to SACC

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

5. The schedule for the SACC is:

Thursday, August 23, 2001

Interview Prep Seminar at 7 p.m.

Friday, August 24,2001

* Registration opens at 9 a.m. and continues throughout the day.

* Two open sessions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. In the ballroom, wander from table to table meeting face to face with recruiters from a wide variety of companies.

Saturday, August 25, 2001

* 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 a unique chance to explore new career opportunities.Ifyou have any questions on this AOG membership service, please contactWayneTaylor at (719) 472-0300 or DSN 333-4513.

SACC Candidate Registration Form (Seattle, Wash.)

NAME (for nametag, no ranks):

ADDRESS :

USAFA CLASS:

PHONE (Home): (Work): (E-mail):

RESUME CATEGORY: (from web site at www.aog-usafa.org/SACC_Registration.htm)

Will you attend the free Interview Prep Seminar? EHYes EH No

Please include: EHRegistration Form EH Fee $25 EHResumes (two hard copies)

A PHOTOGRAPHIC SALUTE TO THE USAF ACADEMY

Over 150 Color Photographs by Acclaimed Photographer ELIZABETH GILL LUI

‘You have combined a great pictorial look at the Academy with a profound view ofits mission, its beautiful surroundings with its recent history, and the hopes and aspirations ofthe cadets with the whole Air Forcevery suecessfully!” (Thomas S. Moorman, former USAFA Supt))

Please send me copies at $66.00 each. ($60.00 plus $6.00 shipping and handling)

COLORADO PURCHASES: See belowfor applicable information.

TOTAL DUE

NAME:

STREET:

CITY:

STATE: ZIP:

“I hope your work will be a motivational reminder to all who see it ofthe great aspects ofthe Academy and of its place among the truly beautiful institutions of national significance. (Donald I. Barrett)

□ Check Enclosed (payable to AOG)

Charge to my □ VISA or □ Mastercard

CREDIT CARD NUMBER

□□□□ □□□□ □□□□ □□□□

Expiration □□□□ Daytime Telephone

Signature

COLORADO SALES TAX: Colorado Sales Tax is required for sales at Doolittle Hall or mailed to a Colorado address as follows:

DOOLITTLE HALL AND El Paso county - 4%

COLORADO SPRINGS - 6.1%

ELSEWHERE WITHIN COLORADO - 3%

THE ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES, 3116 ACADEMY DRIVE, USAF ACADEMY, CO 80840-4475

PHONE: (719) 472-0300 DSN: 333-2067 FAX:(719) 333-4194. E-MAIL: aog@aog-usafa.org.

The AOG is proud to offer this awardwinning book signed by author Fred Kiley and ex-POW Mike McGrath.

A bestseller in its 5th printing (April 2000).

Named Best Book of the Year (non-fiction) by the National Press Club.

Winner of the NavalInstitute’sAuthor ofthe YearAward. A Pulitzer Prize Nominee in the history category.

This best-seller chronicles the stories ofAmerican POWs in Southeast Asia between 1961 and 1973. It is a “must read” for those interested in that period of our history. Now available through the AOG (Association of Graduates, 3116 Academy Drive, U.S. Air Force Academy, Colo. 80840-4475) for $38.95 plus shipping (if mailed) and on the AOG Online Merchandise Site at www.aog-usafa.org.

AOG Merchandise Is Available Online

AOG merchandise is available online. From the AOG home page at www.aog-usafa.org, select "merchandise” from the menu on the left, then follow the links. Once in the merchandise area you will find a selection of AOG-unique gift items and clothing as well as a limited number of cadet-issue items.

From these pages, you can view and purchase any number of popular items. When viewing the merchandise, click on the item name for a larger image. Once you have completed your shopping, checkout is through a secure server (even though thefamiliar lock does not appear) using either your Visa or MasterCard. If you so desire, you can print out your order form and mail it with your check to the AOG for processing.

Orders will normally be processed within one week of arrival at the AOG. For domestic addresses, you should receive your merchandise within about two weeks of when the order was placed. We hope you enjoy the convenience of ordering AOG merchandise on line. If you experience problems or have suggestions about our store, please send them to Store@aog-usafa.org.

AOG Board Approves New Format for Register ofGraduates

The AOG Board of Directors has approved a new format for the AOG RegisterofGraduates. Startingwith the 2000 Register, the book will contain full biographical information on each class at five-year increments from its graduation year. The 2001 edition will contain full bios on the Classes of 1961,1966,1971,1976,1981,1986,1991, 1996, and 2001. Members of these classes are encouraged to update their biographical information prior to August.

Graduate Biographical Update Form

Name at Graduation: Date:

Class: AOG ID # or SSAN: (From the Register or Checkpoints mailing label)

Please make the following Changes/Additions to my records in the AOG Database:

Preferred Name for mailing labels:

Mailing Address: Effective Date:

City: State: Zip Code: Country:

Duty assignment or Civilian Title:

Unit/Company & Location:

Work Address:

City:

Home Phone: ( )_

Home FAX: ( )

Home e-mail:

Work e-mail:

Effective Date: State: Zip Code: Country:

_Work Phone: (_

Work FAX: (

Web URL:

Marital Status: Single/Divorced/Married: If Married: Spouse’s name:

Marital or Legal Name Change: (provide documentation)

If Spouse is a Graduate please provide the following: Spouse’s Grad Class:

Spouse’s Graduation Name:

DSN:

AOG ID #

The AOG receives promotion, aeronautical rating, PME, and sponsored civilian education updates from the USAF Personnel Center for Active Duty USAF graduates only; USAFR, Guard, and other service graduates MUST provide us this information personally. USAF Active Duty Graduates should provide it, in case the official data sources are in error. (Please provide documentation to correct errors.)

Rank: Date of Rank: Aero Rating: Date of Rating:

PME: Residence/Seminar/Correspondence; Dates:

All Graduates: Award(s):

Civilian Degree: Major: Year: Institution:

The following Data is being collected to populate the AOG Database.

Doolie Squadron: Graduation Squadron:

Source of Nomination: Congressional:

Varsity Letter Earned: Year (s):

Enter State Other: Home of Record State: i.e. Presidential, Prep School, etc. Sport (s):

Squadron/Group/Wing Command/Honor Positions:

Other Relatives Attend (ed) (ing) USAFA: Name (s), Class and Relationship

Remarks:

Signature:

While at USAFA

Date:

Mail to: Association of Graduates (Bio Info), 3116 Academy Dr., USAF Academy CO 80840-4475, E-mail to: aog@aog-usafa.org, or update via: www.aog-usafa.org

Rev: dtp os/oo

AOG GIFT ORDER FORM

Complete and send to:

ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES

3116 Academy Drive

USAF Academy CO 80840-4475

(719) 472-0300 FAX: (719) 333-4194 www.aog-usafa.org

SEE ORDERING INSTRUCTIONS BELOW

Check enclosed. Daytime Phone: ( ) Credit card (VISA or MasterCard only)

Print name on credit card:

Signature:

Card# / / / Expiration: /

Total CO Sales Tax (see instructions below)

Shipping & Handling (see instructions below)

Total Due (subject to verification of membership)

GLASSWARE: AOG Crest etched on clear glass. Sold individually or in sets of four.

Old Fashion Glasses: Member/Nonmember Sets of Four

Highball:

Stemware:

Item

Item

Mugs:

SABERS and

COASTERS:

Item #0530 Pegasus Coasters - Terra Cotta and Blue. Water Absorbent, nonscratch bottoms. Set of four. $25.00/$29.00

Item #0531 Leather Coasters in a tin display case. Set of six. Three with AOG crest and three with USAFA crest. $15.00/$18.00

LICENSE PLATE FRAMES:

Item #0402 ‘FALCONS” frame

Item #0403 “ALUMNI” frame

Mix/Match set of frames above (please specify)

PERSONALIZED PEN AND PRESENTATION CASE:

$4.50/$4.50 $4.50/$4.50 $8.00/$8.00

Light Maple or Rosewood. Name on pen. Case engraved with your choice oftwo ofthe following three crests, “AOG”, “USAFA”, or “CLASS” and up to three lines ofpersonalizing. Please allow5 weeks for engraving and shipping. Specify crests and personalizing on order form.

Item #0505 Pen and Case $24.00/$24.00

CHRISTMAS ORNAMENTS:

Item #0605 2000 USAFA Chapel (3” x 3.5”) $19.00/$23.00

Item #0604 1999 USAFA Crests (Double sided, 3”x 3”) $23.00/$27.50

Item #0603 1998 Polaris w/Crossed Sabers (3” x 3”) $23.00/$27.50

Item #0602 1997 Prop & Wings (3” x 3”) $23.00/$27.50

Item #0601 1995 Pegasus (3” x 3”) $23.00/$27.50

Item #0600 1994 Falcon (2.5” x 2”) $23.00/$27.50

AOG GIFT CATALOG: 1 November 2000. Prices, styles and colors are subject to change without notice. Contact the AOG at (719) 472-0300 for current prices or visit our website at www.aog-usafa.org which will have current “member” prices.

USAFA SCARF:

100% silk with USAFA crest and falcon design. Dark blue.

Item: #0302 $26.00/$29.50

USAFA NECKTIE:

80% silk tie with USAFA and Prop & Wings design. $21.00/$23.00

Item #0300 Blue

Item #0301 Garnet (Red)

IEWELRY:

Item #0433 Sterling silver Prop & Wings

Necklace $24.50/$28.50

Item #0436 Polaris tie tack/lapel pin inl4Kt yellow or white gold

With small diamond $69.00/$83.00

Without diamond $42.00/$51.00

Item #0434 Prop & Wings charm in 14kt yellowgold

With small diamond $95.00/$l 10.00

Without diamond $71.00/$85.00

SWEATERS AND SHIRTS: - extra charge on some larger sizes.

Item #0180 AOG Rugby Shirt: 100% cotton (10% shrinkage, sizes run true) Gray and navy blue with AOG crest embroidered on left breast.

(SM, MED, LRG, XLG)

$47.00/$55.00 (XXL, XXXL) $50.00/$58.00

Item #0200 Crewneck Sweater: lersey top, pebble bottom dark blue sweater. 100% pre-shrunk cotton. Sizes run one size smaller than normal fit. AOG crest embroidered on left breast.

(SM, MED, LRG, XLG)

$48.00/$57.00 (XXL)

$51.00/$60.00

Item #0210 AOG V-neck Sweat Top: 85% cotton/15% polyester. Oversized to compensate for shrinkage. Natural oatmeal (light beige) with Navy striped trim. AOG crest embroidered on left breast pocket.

(SM, MED, LRG, XLG)

$46.00/$55.00

Item #0280 AOG Golf Shirt: 100% combed cotton. Colors: glacier blue, dark blue, or white. AOG crest embroidered on left breast.

(SM, MED, LRG, XLG)

$38.00/$45.00 (XXL)

$40.00/$48.00

CADET ISSUE CLOTHING: (available to AOG members only)

Item #0001 Sweatsuit: 89% cotton/8% polyester/3%rayon. Oversized to accommodate shrinkage. Light gray with dark gray reflective strips and USAFA.

Sweat Top (SM, MED, LRG, XLG) (XXL)

Member Price $35.00/NA $37.00/NA

Sweat Pants (SM, MED, LRG, XLG) (XXL)

Member price $22.50/NA $24.50/NA

Complete Set (SM, MED, LRG, XLG) (XXL)

Member price $55.00/NA $58.00/NA

Item #0030 USAFA T-Shirt: 100% cotton (will shrink). White with blue ringer collar and sleeves. “USAFA” silkscreened on left breast. (SM, MED, LRG, XLG) (XXL)

Member price $8.00/NA $9.00/NA

Item #0050 Running Suit: Dark blue with reflective strips. Sizes run large. (SM, MED, LRG, XLG, XXL)

Jacket $80.00/NA

Pants $48.00/NA

JACKETS: - extra charge on some larger sizes.

Item #0100 Polar Jacket: Fleece-lined blue nylon shell with embroidered AOG crest.

(SM, MED, LRG, XLG) $70.00/$84.00 (XXL) $73.00/$87.50 (3X) $75.00/$90.00

Item #0110 Suede Leather Jacket: Navy blue/tan with embroidered AOG crest.

(SM, MED, LRG, XLG) $120.00/$144.00 (XXL, 3X) $125.00/$150.00

Item #0140 Blue Microfiber Windbreaker with embroidered AOG crest on left breast.

(SM, MED, LRG, XLG) $70.00/$84.00 (XXL) $73.00/$87.50 (3X) $75.00/$90.00

AOG GIFT CATALOG: 1 May 2001. Prices, styles and colors are subject to change without notice. Contact the AOG at (719) 472-0300 for current prices or visit our website at www.aog-usafa.org which will have current “member” prices.

BOOKS AND VIDEOS: (* Paperback) Books/videos are the same pricefor members and nonmembers except where two prices are given.

Item #0340 - Into the Mouth ofthe Cat*

The story of Lance Sijan, ‘65

$4.00

Item #0341 - The Rescue ofBAT21 $27.95

Autographed by Grad author Darrel Whitcomb, ‘69

Item #0342 - The Iskra Incident

Autographed by Grad author Jimmie Butler, 63

Item #0344 - Red Lightning, Black Thunder

Autographed by Grad author Jimmie Butler, ‘63

$19.95

$21.95

Item #0345 - Separated by War $24.95

Autographed by Grad author Ed Herlik, ‘80

Item #0347 - Modernism at Mid Century $50.00

History of the architecture of USAFA

Item #0348 - Courage andAir Warfare* $22.00

Autographed by Grad author MarkWells, ‘75

Item #0349 - Courage and Air Warfare $49.50

Autographed by Grad author MarkWells, ‘75

Item #0350 - The Secret Life ofWaldo F. Dumbsquat* $10.00

Autographed by Grad author Don Hall, ‘76

Item #0352 - A Certain Brotherhood* $10.00

Autographed by Grad author Jimmie Butler, ‘63

Item #0354 - Honor Bound $38.95

Autographed by one of the authors

Item #0510 - Video: Return With Honor $19.00/$24.00

Documentary of the experiences of POWs in Vietnam

Item #0351 - Spirit and Flight $60.00

A photographic salute to the USAF Academy. Over 150 color photographs. Sponsored by the AOG. By Elizabeth Gill Lui.

CLASS NOTEBOOKS: Two-tone gray suede cover, junior legal size (6” x 9”), with class crest embossed on front with class color stripe; inside note pad and pen; available in limited quantitiesfor thefollowing classes. $10.00/$10.00

Item#5392: ‘92 Notebook Item #5394: ‘94 Notebook Item #5397: ‘97 Notebook

Item #5393: ‘93 Notebook Item #5395: ‘95 Notebook Item #5398: ‘98 Notebook Item #5200: ‘00 Notebook

Item #5399: ‘99 Notebook

Item #5201: ‘01 Notebook AOG ACCESSORIES AND OTHER ITEMS

DECALS: Class crests on a window decal (self-adhesive to inside of glass) for all years except ‘92. Specify class year. $1.00/$1.00

Item #43XX: Class Decals

Item #0502: AOG Membership Decal

HONOR MEDALLION: A 2 1/2” diameter brass medallion with the Honor Code on one side and Prop & Wings on the other.

Item #0540: Honor Medallion

Item #0541: Honor Medallion with stand $31.00/$35.00

BIAZF.R PATCHES: Pin-back patch embroidered with appropriate crest.

Item #0313: AOG Blazer Patch $19.00/$23.00

Item #0314: AFA Blazer Patch

Item #0800: Class of ‘59 Blazer Patch

Item #0810: Class of ‘60 Blazer Patch

KEYCHAINS: Blue keychain with silver AOG crest.

$19.00/$23.00

$19.00/$23.00

$19.00/$23.00

Item #0500 $2.00/$2.00

SQUADRON PINS: Pins match patches currently used by squadrons.

Item #0070: Please specify squadron $4.00/$4.00

MAGNETS: Item #0501

UMBRELLA: Item #0504

$.50/$.50

$20.00/$23.00

Item #0320: “Here’s a Toast...” By Keith Ferris $60.00/$60.00

Item #0321: “Gyrfalcon” by Frace $75.00/$75.00

Item #0322: “Thunderbird” by Rick Broome $50.00/$50.00

SWEATERS: Blue and white, 80% Orion/20% wool crew neck. “Falcons” - SM, MED, LRG, XLG (sorry no XXL)

Item #0150 $21.00/$25.00

NOTECARDS:

Item #0503: Doolittle Hall Notecards (6” x 4.5”)

Set of 10 with envelopes $5.00/$5.00

Item #0506: Falcon Notecards

Set of 10 with envelopes $15.00/$15.00

Item #0507: Phoenix Notecards

Set of 10 with envelopes $15.00/$15.00

IEWELRY:

Item #0430: Sterling Silver AOG Charm $24.00/$29.00

Item #0431: Sterling Silver AOG Tie Tack $24.00/$29.00

Item #0432: Prop & Wings. Silver and gold colored $9.00/$l 1.00

HATS: Item #0310: AFA hat w/class year. Navy blue w/embroidered AFA crest and class year. Please specify class year. Adjustable leather strap for size. $18.00/$21.00

Item #0311: AOG hat. Navy blue with brown bill. Adjustable strap for fit. $15.00/$18.00

FINE ART PRINTS

Item #0323: “Footfalls” Artist Proofs $150.00/$150.00

Item #0324: “Aurora” by Gallo $85.00/$85.00

AOG GIFT CATALOG: 1 May 2001. Prices, styles and colors are subject to change without notice. Contact the AOG at (719) 472-0300 for current prices or visit our website at www.aog-usafa.org which will have current “member” prices.

“Gyrfalcon”

‘Here’s a Toast"

“Thunderbirds”

‘Footfalls”

“Aurora”

U. S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES

Receptionist

Executive Offices:

President/CEO: Col. (Ret) James A. Shaw, ‘67

Executive Assistant: Pat Buland

Secretary: Leah Burrows

Receptionist: Michelle Cowan

Accountant: Joyce Love

Class Rings: Donna Porter

Death Notification:

Notices: Pat Buland; Obituaries: Tom Kroboth

Development:

Vice President: Lt. Col. (Ret) Gary S. Howe, ‘69

AOG Annual Fund: Michael Brown

Building Fund: Michael Brown

Class Gifts: Chery Flores

Corporate Giving: Gary Howe

Major Giving: Gary Howe

Matching Gifts: Sandra Luckhurst

Memorial/Endowment Funds: Chery Flores

Paver Project: Michael Brown

Planned Giving: Gary Howe

Sabre Society: Jim Shaw, Kathy McCann

Information Services:

Vice President: Col. (Ret) Chuck Denham, ‘67

Computer Systems: Jack Mueller, ‘70

Database Coordinator: Don McCarthy

External Communications:

Vice President: Col. (Ret) Dick Rauschkolb, ‘70

Director of Marketing & Media: Bob McAllister

Checkpoints and Register ofGraduates:

Assistant Editor: Tom Kroboth

Advertising: Dick Rauschkolb/Bob McAllister

Chapter News: Bob McAllister/Tom Kroboth

Class News: Bob McAllister/Tom Kroboth

Services:

Vice President: Col. (Ret) Rich Downing, ‘70

Career Opportunities

Company Contact: Wayne Taylor

Resume Service: Wayne Taylor

SACC. Wayne Taylor

Service Academy Business Resource Directory

Sales: Wayne Taylor, Celeste Storie

Updates: Wayne Taylor, Lani Wing

Doolittle Hall Special Functions:

Reservations (parties, etc.): Jean Bickford

Address Updates: Steve Knight, John Rice

Associate Memberships: John Rice

Cadet Memberships: Don McCarthy

Bio Updates: Steve Knight, John Rice

Chapters/Societies: Wayne Taylor

Class Reunions: Lani Wing/Donna Porter

Grad. Dependent Scholarships: Lani Wing

Graduate Membership: Steve Knight

Graduate Records: Steve Knight

Label/List Requests: Chuck Denham

Merchandise Sales: Celeste Storie

Rental Car Cards: Steve Knight, John Rice

Mortuary Affairs/Burial (719) 333-3323

Prep School Duty Officer (719) 333-2501 Transcripts (719) 333-3970

USAFA Operator Assistance (719) 333-1110

USAFA Parents’ Clubs Contact (719) 333-3832

Visitor Center (800) 955-4438

Yearbooks/Cadet Media (719) 333-4644

ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES

3116 ACADEMY DR

USAF ACADEMY, CO 80840-4475

As of February 2001

Service Academy Business Resource Directory (SABRD)

The information reflected in the directory is obtained from members of the service academies alumni associations who wish to have their civilian positions listed in the publication. Indexed by geographical area, industry, company name, graduate last name and class year, the directory contains entries of approximately 14,000 graduates in business across the country and worldwide. Born from the belief that the Associations of Graduates and Alumni Associations exist not only to serve their academies but their membership, this directory creates an excellent business leadership network. The information also provides those in need of certain services an efficient way to find a fellow graduate.

SABRD ORDER FORM

Note: SABRD data is also available online (iSABRD). For information on subscribing to iSABRD log onto aog-usafa.org/graduatejobprograms.

Please use this address in the AOG Database:

[inneapolis, MN 12 656.3800 ashville, TN 15 565.1000 boenix, AZ 32 340.8220 Lttsburgh, PA

14 754.0400

pening Soon

tiiladelphia, PA icramento, CA aronto, Canada 'iami, FL ublin, Ireland cattle, WA

In 1997, two Air Force Academy graduates founded Inflow. Ever since, we’ve been moving at a supersonic pace.

Inflow is the leadingprovider of advanced colocation facilities and managed network services to today’s emerging e-businesses.

With locations throughout the U.S. and abroad, we’re growing fast and committed to excellence. And we need people like you.

The old rules no longer apply in today’s new economy. Inflow is breaking the barriers by treating our employees with respect. We value their opinion, their talent and most importantly, their allegiance the success of our organization. We offer unparalleled training, opportunities for career growth and the freedom to challenge your abilities.

Come explore the possibilities. Visit our Web site or call 877-2INFLOW to learn more about how Inflow can help your career take off.

877-2INFLOW mflow.com

Art Zeile

Class of1986

Leigh Wilbanks Class 0/1991

Joel Daly

Class 0/1990

DaveAga

Class of1988

Cameron Brown Class of1995

Kent Hennings Class of7994

Chris Bair Class of1991

Mike Marcoux

Class of1993

Dan Bojas Class of1984

Mike Fontaine Class of1989

Association of Graduates Available Member Benefits/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: aog@aog-usafa.org.

CHECKPOINTS MAGAZINE:

•your quarterly link to friends, classmates and the Academy.

REGISTER OF GRADUATES:

annual presentation of biographical infermation on all Academy graduates.

E-MAIL:

•AOG-mail forwarding system for graduates. Accessible through the “Graduates” link on the AOG web main page.

CHAPTERS:

world-wide support for some 29 chapters

DEPOSIT ACCOUNTS:

outstandingyields from MBNA. 1-800-9006653, extension 6617

LINE OF CREDIT:

unsecured line of credit is available from MBNA America. To apply call 1-888-500-6266 and ask for priority code J2ON-FI-603-2G. You will receive a decision in as little as 15 minutes.

AOG CREDIT CARD:

favorable terms and credit limits from MBNA America. To apply call 1-800-523-7666 and refer to source code J8CJ.

SCHOLARSHIPS:

a preparatory school scholarship via the Falcon Foundation.

post secondary scholarships to graduates’ children.

LOCATOR SERVICE:

need to find a fellow graduate? We help!

SABER RENTAL:

sets of six for the military wedding.

Corporate Members

TRAVEL SERVICE:

year-round full-service travel program for vacation, business, special Academy events and reunions. Call Garden of the Gods Travel Service at 1 (800) 347-9002 and mentionyourAOG affiliation.

REUNION/HOMECOMINGS:

coordination and planning by your AOG.

MERCHANDISE/MEMORABILIA:

Academy/AOG-unique items created espedally for members.

AUTOMOBILE PURCHASE DISCOUNT:

2% over factory invoice on new Pontiacs and GMC trucks and receive all applicable factory rebates. Drop-shipping available. Contact the Commercial Sales Division, Ferguson Pontiac-GMC Truck (719) 596-5005/ (800) 782-0826/ fax (719) 596-7569

CAR RENTAL DISCOUNTS:

special 10% discount rate from Budget: (800) 455-2848 (AOG ID T507 400). You must present yourAOG-provided Budget card when picking up your car.

HOTEL DISCOUNTS:

save 10% at participating Clarion, Comfort, Econo Lodge, Rodeway, Friendship, Quality and 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) 5999100 and ask for the AOG RSVIP Corporate Rate (excludes special and group events).You mustpresent your AOG membership card at check-in.

Association of Graduates, USAFA

Air Academy Federal Credit Union

Air Academy National Bank

Air Force Association

Ampex Corporation

Betac Corporation

The Boeing Company

Budget Rent a Car Corporation

Van Gilder Insurance Corp.

Continental Electronics (Division of Varian Associates, Inc.)

Electronic Data Systems Corporation

Embassy Suites Hotel of Colorado Springs

General Dynamics Corporation

General Motors Corporation

Jostens, Inc.

Lockheed Martin Aeronautics

The MITRE Corporation

Motorola, Inc.

Government Electronics Group

Northwestern Preparatory School PRC, Inc.

Raytheon

Rockwell International

TRW, Inc., Electronic & Defense Sector

United Parcel Service

United Services Automobile Association

United Technologies Corporation

USAF Academy Athletic Association

Walsworth Publishing of Colorado

Westinghouse Electric Corporation

Defense & Electronic Center

Wyndham Colorado Springs Hotel

Corporate memberships are being offered for the life ofthe corporation. With the exception of voting and holding office, corporate members enjoy all privileges ofregular members. For more information write to Col. (Ret) Rich Downing, vice president, Services, Association of Graduates, 3116 Academy Dr., U.S. Air Force Academy CO 80840-4475. Phone (719) 472-0300. E-mail services@aog-usafa.org.

save 10-25% at the Radisson Inn North (formerly Sheraton Inn North) just outside the Academy South Gate. Call (719) 598-5770 and ask for the Association of Graduates rate (exeludes 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 Wyndham Colorado Springs when traveling in January, March, April and October, November, and December. Call (800) 9626982 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-in.

save 50% at the Sumner Suites of Colorado Springs when traveling January through April and November/December. Call (719) 265-9385 and ask for the AOG Special Rate (not valid for groups, special events or with any other promotion). Discount based on regular rate and is subject to availability. AOG membership card required upon check-in.

save 25% at the Las Vegas Hawthorn Suites during June, July and August. This is a nongaming hotel just steps from many major casinos. Call (702) 739-7000 and ask for the AOG VIP rate. Discount based on rack rates and subject to availability. Must present AOG membership card upon check-in.

Rules Outlined for Graduate GolfCourse Use

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

Military members, active duty and retired, including Guard and Reserve, (i.e. any graduate with a military ID) must schedule their own tee times by calling (719) 333-3456, 72 hours in advance. These are the same reservation rules applicable to all active-duty personnel not stationed at theAcademyand retirees. Green fees are $20. Reciprocalprivileges are in effect for active-duty graduates who have annual memberships at other Air Force courses. Golf cart fees are $20.

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. Tee times begin after 1000 hours. Graduates wishing to use these tee times must make reservations through John Rice at the AOG. He will contact the golf course to schedule your desired date and time. After confirmation ofthe tee time, he will notifyyou ofthe date and time. We emphasize that these graduates must go through theAOG officefor reservations (719) 472-0300.

Graduates may schedule only one tee time per month to insure all eligible graduates have an opportunity to use one ofthe eight tee times. Ifby the 25th ofeach month the eight tee times have not been reserved, a graduate who played earlier in the month may schedule a second tee time. Green fees for nonretired, nonactive-duty graduates are $50 and golf cart fees are $20.

Reunions and Homecoming: A tournament will be scheduled by the Academy and the AOG to accommodate graduates at a set fee for all players. The fee will be independent of military status or golf course membership.

Send your donation now to the AOG Annual Fund Association of Graduates

Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Drive U.S. Air Force Academy, CO 80840-4475

Sabre Society Continues Outstanding Growth

The Sabre Society added close to 50 new members to its rolls in the past few months. The society was established by the AOG in 1995 as a select group of long-term benefactors who have a clear and tangible interest in supporting the Academy financially and through their personal influence. The society is dedicated toward forming a national network of influential community leaders who act as informed advocates of Academy causes.

The Sabre Society provides a visible and prestigious means of honoring and recognizing the Academy’sleadingsupporters. Donors are recognized as Members ($1,000 annually), Patrons ($2,500 annually), Benefactors ($5,000 annually), or Life Members ($50,000). If you are interested, please contact Gary Howe, Kathy McCann or Becky Hureau at the AOG, e-mail Development@aog-usafa.org.

New Sabre Society Members since the last magazine are:

Mr and Mrs James Anthony

Ms Tanya Baker

Mr and Mrs M C Tony Barnard, III ‘66

Lt Col (Ret) M J Bettencourt, Jr, USAF ’68

Dr and Mrs Fred C. Boli ‘65

Col and Mrs Michael D. Bratlien, USAFR ‘74

Maj and Mrs Kevin Carreno ‘83, Benefactor

Ms Carol Carver

Gen (Ret) Michael Dugan

Dr and Mrs Donald J. Egan ‘62

Mr and Mrs Durward Fant

Dr and Mrs Paul W. Farrell, II '69

Mr and Mrs Scott E. Ferguson ‘78

Give a Gift of Free Money!

Double or Triple Your Gift for Free!

Give a Gift of Free Money!

Double or Triple your Gift for Free!

If you work for:

Delta Airlines American Express

Lockheed Martin Boeing

Coca Cola USAA

Then you work for a matching gift company!

These companies, and thousands of others, will match your charitable donation - sometimes by $3 of company money for every $1 of your money!

Does your employer have a matching gift program?

Contact your Human Resources or Personnel department. Pick up a matching gift form, complete your portion and send it to the AOG with your gift every time you make a contribution.

Manycompanies include retiree’s gifts in these programs. It’s an easy way to increase your giving level so that the AOG can give more to the Academy.

AOG Offers USAFA Class Ring Lost and Found Service

Ifyou have lost your class ring or found someone else’s, who are you going to call? The AOG has long been the focal point for trying to match lost rings with their owners.

We have several sources formaintainingup-to-date addresses and phone numbers on graduates (the primary source, of course, depends on the graduate keeping the AOG informed of changes). When a ring is returned to the AOG we can usually have it back on the owner’s hand within a week or two (as soon as we can verify a shipping address).

If a ring needs to be replaced or serviced, we can link you to the ring companyrepresentativewho handlesyour class. So, ifyou need to report a ring lost or found, or need to know who to call for ring repairs/replacement, please call or contact:

DONNA PORTER

at (719) 472-0300, DSN 333-2067, e-mail to classring@aog-usafa.org, 3116 Academy Drive USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475

Mr Michael J. Flynn, Jr ‘95

Mr and Mrs Michael Forge

Mr Ernest D. George

Col (Ret) Hugh E Gommel, Jr ‘66

Mr and Mrs Steven D. Heinz ‘76

Mr and Mrs Roderick E. Hennek ‘75

Mr and Mrs William W. Hogan, Jr ‘66

Lt Col Linda K. Huggler ‘83

Mr and Mrs Kent F. Johnson ‘80

Col (Ret) and Mrs Richard L. Klass ‘62

Col (Ret) and Mrs James F. Lemon ‘64

Col (Ret) and Mrs Donald B. Livingston ‘59

Ms Elvia Lopez

Col (Ret) and Mrs Robert A. Lowe ‘71, Patron

Mr and Mrs David H. Maguire

Mrs Mari Marcom

Maj and Mrs Peter M. McCaffrey, ANG ‘83

Mr and Mrs Paul H. Meinhold ‘78

Mr and Mrs Thopmas H. Morris ‘64, Patron

Dr Brian W. Nelson ‘69 and Ms Elizabeth O’Reilly

Mr Frederick K. Olafson ‘69

Col (Ret) and Mrs Zygmunt Orzechowski ‘69

Mr and Mrs Phil L. Pearce ‘75

Mr and Mrs Thomas M. Rentenbach, II ‘62

Mr and Mrs Gary R. Riester

Mr Hal E. Sauer ‘71

Maj and Mrs Mark S. Sievers, USAFR ‘71

Mr and Mrs Paul Spangler

Col (Ret) and Mrs Donald R. Spoon ‘64

Lt Col and Mrs Thomas A. Stein, USAFR ‘70

Col (Ret) and Mrs John F. Swofford

MGen (Ret) and Mrs Arnold R. Thomas, Jr ‘64

Lt Col (Ret) and Mrs Addison S. Thompson ‘61, Patron

Mr and Mrs Kenneth J. Vargas-Charlesworth ‘73, Patron

Mr and Mrs Steven Vorhies

Mr and Mrs Charles P. Wood, Jr ‘65

Class RingDisplay Donations Needed

Class rings from the U.S. Air Force Academy represent all that the Academy stands for and form a unique, common bond among graduates of all classes. With the financial support of the Class of 1968, the Association ofGraduates has established a class ring display on the second floor of Doolittle Hall. It is housed in a beautiful display case provided by that class on the occasion of their 25th reunion.

The display, when complete, 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 ofeach ring donated. Besides a list of donors, long-term plans could include audiovisual or interactive computer 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, a piece ofthis ingot will be included so that every cadet ring includes a piece of rings from all previous classes and represents an unbroken circle of heritage and tradition.

More than half of the classes are already represented. Donations are still being sought. Besides the heritage and tradition that you will help establish, your donation can serve to honor or memorialize a graduate as part of the donor listing. Of course, any donation is also fully tax deductible. Ifyou or someone you know are interested in donating a ring, please contact Donna Porter or Rich Downing, ‘70, at (719)472-0300.

HONORA GRADUATE OR LOVED ONE!

An unrestricted donation to the AOG is an excellent way to honor someone’s life, in life or death. Creating an endowment or scholarship will provide perpetual remembrance.

For each honorary or memorial donation, the AOG will send an acknowledgement to the donor and a notice to the individual or nextof-kin that the gift has been made.

A donation to the Association of Graduates and the Academy is a fitting way to honor a friend or loved one while supporting the “extra margin of excellence” which keeps the Academy great.

For additional information, please contact Gary Howe or Chery Flores at (719) 472-0300 or e-mail to Gary.Howe or Chery.Flores @usafa.af.mil.

Link yourself forever with both the tradition and the future of the Air Force Academy by having your name “engraved in stone” on a Pegasus Plaza granite paver. A statue of Pegasus, the winged horse of Greek mythology and a symbol of the Air Force Academy, stands in front of Doolittle Hall. The area around the base of Pegasus is paved with granite bricks inscribed with the names of Academy graduates, family members, and friends of the Academy.

Placing a paver in the Pegasus Plaza provides a unique and lasting way to honor your cadet’s achievements and to continue the heritage and traditions of the Academy. Many parents use pavers to recognize families, friends, sponsors, and others who have contributed to their cadet’s outstanding accomplishments. Don’t miss this opportunity to link you and your cadet with the history, heritage, future, and pride of our great school.

CHAPTER NEWS

ARIZONA CHAPTER

Our thanks go to Jack, ‘68, and Kitty Frost for hosting the Super Bowl Sunday on Jan. 28. Thanks, also, to everyone who made this a fun and memorable evening.

Arizona Chapter nametags are now available for members and spouses or significant others. The cost of each badge is $10. Send e-mail to: frankschmuck@ aogaz.intranets .com specifying the name of the graduate, class year and spouse and/or significant other name. The Arizona Chapter thanks Frank Schmuck (‘88) for all his hard work regarding the nametag issues. Make check payable to the Arizona Chapter of USAFA AOG and mail to Tim Furst (see Tim’s information below).

The Arizona Chapter has established a secure Intranet as a wayfor graduates inArizona to stay connected. Joining the site is FREE and entitles you to a free e-mail account with forwarding, but more importantly you will receive electronic reminders to our events, meetings and social gatherings. We also have links to theAOG site and from time to time a few pictures from our get-togethers. If you are an AOG member who resides in Arizona, pleasejoin our intranet - www.aogaz.intranets.com and click the “Request an Invitation”. Thanks for all your support and we look forward to having you join us in Arizona via the Intranet.

The Honeywell Engines & Systems company sponsored an all-services academygolftournament at Falcon Dunes on April 13. Thanks to Mike Cryer, ‘68, for organizing the event.

Ed, ‘63, and Terry ReisdorfsAFA AOG spring partypoduck was held on April 20. Ed andTerry supplied all of the liquor and soft drinks. Our thanks for their hospitality.

Ifyou have recently moved to Arizona or have not received our mailings, please also contact Jim Sienicki, ‘74, jsienicki@swlaw.com at Snell & Wilmer to be added to the mailing list. Ifyou have not paid your yearly chapter dues ($20/ year) for 2001, please send your check to Tim Furst, c/o Furst and Associates at 1505 East Missouri Avenue, Suite 100, Phoenix, Ariz. 85014, (480) 705-3845, e-mail: tfurst@learning edge.com. In addition, please e-mail or send your e-mail address to either Frank Schmuck or me, since we are compiling e-mail addresses, as well as your current address and telephone number, so we can better serve you and cut down on some of our mailing expenses. (Jim Sienicki, ‘74, Arizona Chapterpresident)

CAPITAL CHAPTER

Greetings from the Capital Chapter! It’s been a slow winter, but we’re ramping up for the spring and summer. To recap, we continued our professional development activities in Novemher with a superb tour of the National Security Council. Col. Brooks Bash, executive aide to the National Security Advisor, guided us through the White House West Wing. Highlights in-

eluded the Oval Office, NSC Situation Room, Roosevelt Room and Press Room. The White House art collection is also very impressive. One standout is the original Washington Crossing the Delaware, posted in the West Wing Reception Lobby. The tour is well worth your time if you live in D.C. For details on future dates contact Craig Rizzo, 703-684-7184, craig.rizzo @home.com.

How to Request Academy Staff as Speakers

In order for the Academy staff to provide better assistance to AOG Chapters seeking speakers from theAcademy, 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 ifyour first or second choice is not available.

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

A point 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 a letter requesting the speaker.

We have a number of other events planned for the coming year some have already happened as you read this. In the spring we had the annual CCAOG Golf Tournament (30 May at Andrews AFB) and a guided tour of the Antietam Battlefield (12 May). In June we’re planning a luncheon to coincide with the Commander-In-Chief Trophy presentation. The White House hasn’t set a date for the ceremony, but we predict sometime in June. As soon as we have the details we’ll post them to our website. We have another NSC tour tentatively planned for July, and our biggest event of the year, the AF/Navy football game and tailgate on October 6th More details of these and other CCAOG happenings are posted on our website, http://users.erols.com/ccaog/.

And last, but certainly not least, the CCAOG staff congratulates our president on his recent promotion. On March 16th 2001, Duncan J. McNabb, ‘74, was promoted to the rank of major general. We know he’ll continue to do great things for the Air Force and the AOG.

As always, this is also a plea for updated e

mail addresses and phone numbers. The best (and cheapest) way to spread the word on upcoming events is through e-mail. If you’d like to be added to our distro list please e-mail Craig Rizzo at the numbers listed above. We look forward to a great 2001 in Washington D.C.!

HAMPTON ROADS CHAPTER

The Hampton Roads Chapter held its annual board meeting in February to set the schedule and goals for the year. At press time the golf tournament is scheduled for a 1330 shotgun start at Langley’s Eaglewood Golf Course on June 22nd POC is Col. (Ret) Robin Kozelka, ‘59 (rkozelka@rcn.com). The Spring Luncheon date is not firm but we will get the word out via the Internet in time for you to sign up.

Capt. Dan Hauck, ‘90 (daniel.hauck@langley .af.mil), is the new information officer of the chapter and will maintain the Internet list of graduates in our area, so send him your address so you can hear about our events. He is also working on a web site for the chapterwhere you can log on to get info.

The Fall football trip to watch Air Force beat Navyis beingled byCaptKimberlyKadryna, ‘94 (kimberly.kadryna@langley.af.mil), and her committee will be working the details on the bus, game tickets, and tailgate party. A Winter luncheon is also planned so if you would like to help with it please contact Col. TerryYoung, ‘75 (terry.young@langley.af.mil). The chapter is looking for ways to help the candidate selection process in the local area so ifyou have ideas on that score, please contact Colonel Young.

Mrs. Marion Sakowitz, president of the local Parents’ Club, is turning over the responsibility of that organization to LTC (Ret) Virginia Tonneson, ‘80. Marion has done a great job starting the club and we thank her for her leadership and enthusiasm. We are also losing two of our key members this summer when Capts. Ray Platt, ’92; and Eric Olson, ’90, PCS to the Colorado Springs area. Thanks for your companionship and hard work and good luck on your new assignments! (RobinKozelka, ’59;and TerryYoung, ‘75)

PUGET SOUND CHAPTER

Well we survived the big earthquake in Seattle and the chapter is ready to shake, rattle, and roll with more activities this year. In February the annual “Dark Ages” bash was held at Richard Belden’s, ‘69. Once again a gathering of about 30 grads, spouses, and friends were treated to the culinary expertise of chefs Brian DeLuca, ’67; Joe Cavazzini, ‘82, and “Costco”. Lots of good food, friends, and great stories were shared throughout the night.

Plenty of old and new faces were present which included the likes of Ben Apple, '97; Ron Talcott, ’66; Daucey and Pat Brewington, ’70; Eric Doremus, ’79; Jerry and Barb Callahan, ’66;

Bill and Connie Ellis, ’69; Art and Holly Kerr, ’61; Bill and Sherry Markham, ’68; and Curt Velasquez, ‘93, who’s doing a stint with the Navy on Whidbey Island. I know I’ve missed some folks but I’ll have to catch you in the next artide. One ofthe evening’s highlights was when Candy Hakeman (Tom, ‘69) and Linda Cavazzini were challenged by Richard Belden to revisit their cheerleading days. Before long they each were doing the “splits” in Richard’s kitchen. Oh the pain for those ladies and Richard’s floor!

Once a month, a joint service academy jobnetworking breakfast is held in Seattle. The function is a good opportunity for grads who are looking for a new occupation to mix with other grads who have hiring authority. If you are interested, contact Daucey Brewington at 425-888-2426 for more details.

The chapter’s future activities include a Sea Fair party in August and the annual Joint Services Academy Dinner in the fall. Look out for mailers in the near future. Don’t forget to check out our web site at http://www.talon.com/ pugetsound/. If you’re interested in joining us please contact Brian DeLuca at 206-527-2218 or Joe Cavazzini at 425-742-7630. We have members from as far away as Oregon and Eastern Washington, as well as the Puget Sound locals, so come on out and join us. (Joe Cavazzini, 82)

SPACE CHAPTER

As the new administration’s priorities become clearer, the importance of the military use of space is being emphasized. The Space

Chapter is helping the Academy prepare for the new era in Air Force space operations. Our members have also been sharing ideas and concepts with each other about strengthening the use of space for national security.

Followingup on our chapter’s fall 2000 review ofthe astronautics curriculum, we have continued working with the Astronautics Department and other academic departments, as well as building ties to the Commandant’s programs. One of the Astro Department’s projects, FalconSat II, will build and launch a small satellite. Some chapter members are supporting design reviews for this important cadet project.

We continue to support several initiatives aimed at creating space-related exhibits for cadets and the public. By working with the Pikes Peak Observatory and the leadership of Colorado Springs military space organizations, the chapter is helping build a critical mass of support for space exhibits on the Academy grounds. Several members have also arranged for donation ofspace vehicle models for display in the cadet area.

We have begun to work with the Academy’s ALAA (American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics) group to prepare to commemorate the anniversary oftheWright brothers’ first flight and to publicize what the technology of flight (including space flight) has meant for U.S. national security.

Recently, the chapter has created a mentoring program for cadets and faculty members interested in space jobs or careers. Chapter members with extensive experience in AF space as

LocalAOG Chapters and Societies exist across the world including the following locations:

AZ Phoenix Arizona Chapter

CA Los Angeles

Orange County Chapter

San Diego San Diego County Chapter

San Francisco Northern California Chapter

CO Colorado Springs Rampart Chapter

Denver

DC Washington

AF Academy Society of CO

AF Academy Society of DC Washington Capital Chapter

FL Patrick AFB Space Coast Chapter

Shalimar Northwest Florida Chapter

Tampa Tampa Bay Chapter

GA Atlanta Atlanta Chapter

GE Germany Ramstein Chapter

IN Carmel Indiana Chapter

MA Hanscom AFB New England Chapter

NC Raleigh

AF Academy Society of NC

NM Albuquerque New Mexico Chapter

NY New York City

Rome

Greater New York Chapter

Mohawk Chapter

OH Dayton/Wright-Pat Southwest Ohio Chapter

OR Portland

PA Erie

Oregon Chapter

Great Lakes Chapter

TX Dallas/Ft Worth North Texas Chapter

Houston San Jacinto Chapter

San Antonio Alamo Area Chapter

UT Salt Lake City Utah Chapter

VA Langley

Hampton Roads Chapter

WA Seattle Puget Sound Chapter

WORLDWIDE Medical Chapter

WORLDWIDE Space Chapter

For the most current contact information for these organizations, please go to the AOG’s website at www.aog-usafa.org, click on “Graduates”on the left side of the page, then click on “Chapters and Societies.”

signments are available to answer questions and provide advice to interested cadets or faculty members.

Although the chapter’s communications and coordination are normally conducted via the Internet, in April we held our annual get-together (probably shouldn’t call it a “meeting”) in conjunction with the U.S. Space Foundation’s National Space Symposium, which was held in the Springs. It was a good turnout and a good opportunity to review our progress and plans.

Grads interested in learning more about these and other activities of the Space Chapter can check the web site (www.hometown.aol.com/ usafaspace/spacechapter.html) or contact Stan Rosen, ’69, at srosen6@aol.com (daytime phone 310-364-5746).

Support Your Local AOG Chapter/Society

Do you want to know what is happening with graduates in your area? Are you interested in establishing ties with the local graduate community and with the Academy? In addition to social activities, many chapters/societies provide mentor services, job-search information, and business networking. Contact your local chapter/society for information on meetings and activities. See “Graduates” on the AOG web page for a complete listing: www.aog-usafa.org.

Life Membership Options Explained

The AOG offers a life membership plan for graduates and associate members. This plan features rates based on the member’s age and the following payment plans:

* The monthly payment plan is allowed only if the AOG is authorized to charge on a

basis to your AOG credit card or through the coupon payment plan where the AOG is not required to accomplish monthly billing.

Information on graduate joint life membership (graduate married to graduate) and credit card and coupon payment options can be obtained from the AOG by e-mail at membership@aog-usafa.org or

(Ret) Rich Downing, ‘70,

of Graduates; 3116 Academy Drive, U.S. Air

Services; As-

Academy CO 80840-4475. Membership forms are available from the AOG or on-line at www.aog-usafa.org.

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN I00M 00

Richard LeroyArnoldIII, ‘63

We were deeply saddened by the news of the passing of Roy Arnold on Oct. 15, 2000. Roy had been valiantly battling non-Hodgkins Lymphoma for over a year before losing the only fight he ever lost.

On June 26, 1959 this handsome, intelligent and yes, cocky Texan reported to USAFA. Always proud to say he was from Texas and having completed one year at Texas A&M, he was determined not to be intimidated by the Academy “system”, upperclassmen or for that matteranyone or anything. As always, he was true to his word. Although a fierce competitor on USAFA’s intercollegiate golfteam, intramural boxing and rugby, Roy was definitely laid backbut always full ofconfidence. If you were his friend he would make you feel like family. Roy was a true individual, generous with his time for others, and could always be counted upon for honest advice, philosophical conversation or to be the prime mover of a party.

An excellent dresser to include a French Beret coupled with his sporty MG, someone gave Roy the nickname, “Dapper” and the name proved worthy. The Dapper’s car could be found at watering holes like the Kachina Lounge and the Golden Bee or even some less classy bars - no matter, Roy would always find a friend or make a new acquaintance. After graduation from the Academy he joined many of his Second Squadron mates at Craig AFB in Selma, Ala. for pilot training. No surprise, Roy helped make Selma a party town and still managed to graduate high in his class.

After graduation, Roy served four years as a C-124 pilot at McCord AFB in Tacoma and Hickam AFB in Honolulu. Roy was a fine officer and an exceptional pilot. He successfully flew thousands ofhours in “old shaky” throughout the Pacific including 30 trips into South Vietnam. He particularly liked flying into Tan Son Nhut AB in Saigon where he would get together with his older brother who was stationed there and meet for coffee. His parting remark was always, “Well, it’s time to fly back to Honolulu and collect my combat pay.” Roy also had other interests. While at Hickam, he lived in a condominium at the Ilikai Hotel on the beach and perfected surfing the waves and the Waikiki nightspots. He brought his near-scratch handicap to bear on the island’s golf courses, bought an interest in a light plane and became an active skydiver.

Roy left the Air Force in 1968 and flew for BraniffAirlines and served in the Air Force Reserve flying AT-37s. In 1972 Roy joined Federal Express and took his family to Memphis. He was a senior captain with FedEx for many years and a devoted ball striker and raconteur at the Olive Branch Country Club. He retired from FedEx on Sept. 14, 2001 after 28 distinguished years with a flawless record and numerous commendations.

Roy Arnold was an original. He was an independent thinker and a straight-talking man who was unfettered by any need to conform or ingradate. His subde wit and spontaneous style were a source of pleasure and wonder to his comrades. Roy was at once somewhat resistant to the dictates ofmilitarylife, particularlythe cadetvariety, and conscientiously adherent to the highest ideals of military officership. With Roy, there was no artifice or BS - he was a natural; his observations were droll, perceptive and novel. He was unpretentious and receptive to people from all walks of life. One year, Roy showed up early for an annual golf tournament, started by fellow members of the Academy golf team, with an unknown person in tow. Only upon departure for the course did the

John Nicholas Goutas, ‘63

group learn that “John” was not a golfer; he was a hitchhiker Roy had picked up in L.A. who needed a ride a litde further up the road.

Roy was a unique man of great vigor, intelligence and integrity. He was loved and admired by his family and his many friends. In a final conversation just weeks before his passing, Roy mentioned looking forward to buying a home in Dallas where he was planning to live with and care for “Mother and Daddy”. He is survived by his beautiful daughter Laura, his parents, Bob and Joy Arnold; his brothers, Jim and Dan; and his ex-wife and good friend, Judy. He will be long remembered with great sadness at his passing yet with happiness from recollection of his unusual and endearing presence. Roy Arnold is buried at the Memphis Memory Gardens next to his dearest friend - his son. Farewell Roy, you were one of a kind. “Lord! Have mercy on such as we, Baa! Baa! Baa!” (From The Whiffenpoof Song one of Roy’s favorite harmonizing songs we sang at many a gathering). (Laura, Judy andJim Arnold;Jack Shuck and Dick Shutack, ‘63)

John Nicholas Goutas, ‘63

John Nicholas Goutas grew up in the small Vermont village of Bellows Falls. He was a hometown star in both football and basketball.The craggy hills, green valleys, seasons, in church, family and friends shaped the kind of man he was to become. He was truly the All-American boy: good grades, good looks, good friends and good times. At the age of 15 he was chosen as first-team fullback for the All State football team.

Those were wonderful years for his family. As his sister, I worshipped him. He was always surrounded by the best looking girls, the hottest cars, and the biggest “jocks” in town, and on Sundays he was the handsomest altar boy in church. When John was 17, he left home to attend Tufts University and that year received his appointment to the Air Force Academy from the great Vermont Senator, George Aiken. When John left that fall I didn’t realize, nor did my family, that we would forever after share him with his new family, the Air Force.

It was hard for such a young man, so close to home and family to be away that first year, and we all pined away for him. John persevered and over the next four years was shaped and molded into a true “officer and a gentleman”. When we attended his graduation, and heard John Kennedy speak, there was no prouder family than ours. For all intents and purposes, John never really ever returned home again to stay. He was assigned all over the country from Laredo to Minot. It was always a mysterious job he had.

At the height of the Cold War, John was in the thick of things. I remember one time he told me he was in a certain place, and later admitted that he had lied to me. He was caught in some distant air space illegally and escaped by the skin of his teeth. Vietnam came and went and the family held their breath. The funny thing about John was that he rarely shared his military life with us. I think he didn’t want to worry my mom and dad, and he was a humble man, rarelysharing his awards, medals, or honors with family. When he came home he was just John, anxious to be out ofhis uniform and to get down to the Legion for a hot game of poker.

John left the Air Force in 1970 with his sights set on a career with some prominent airline. That dream never materialized and John found him-

James L. Curd, Jr., ‘64

self separated from his beloved Air Force and floundering for a future. It was a difficult, humiliating time for him, but once again he seldom shared his problems and heartache and, pulling himself up by his bootstraps, he eventually rejoined the Air Force Reserve.

John never married but lived the life of the stereotypical “flyboy”. He loved people and he loved life and he lived every minute to the fullest. He was every man's friend and every woman’s dream, and yet he was humble and honest, and full of compassion. After my dad died John took over the role of the “man in the family”. He became very frustrated with all of us when we didn’t “follow orders”, but we did love him so.

Aside from family, John’s second love after the Air Force was Las Vegas. He loved the excitement, and nighdife, and the gambling that was such a part ofhis military life. When he wasn’t risking his life on some mission, he was risking his money at the blackjack tables.

I’m sure there are many people out there who have a story or an anecdote about John. I never knew him as a military man, I knew him as my brother, but I can only imagine some of the “adventures” he had. I’ve never talked to anyone who knewhim who didn’t have a good thing to say about him. He was a special human being. For the last few years he was devoted to watching over our mother and would spend many hours in her kitchen. My brother Ed, sister Dot, brother-in-law Bub, and my mother and I miss him terribly. Although he had been gone for so many years he had finally come home. And our lives have a void in them that will never be filled. John was his family’s “golden child”, dearly loved, now dearly missed and finally home to stay.

I am including his military assignments, honors, medals and information. Some of these awards we never knew about. He just never bothered to tell us. But we want to share them with our pride and love.

Colonel Goutas received pilottraining at Laredo Air Force Base, Texas, graduating in October 1964 and was assigned to Minot Air Force Base, N.D., flying B-52H aircraft. During the Vietnam Conflict John flew numerous bombing missions in SouthVietnam and Laos. In June of 1968 he accepted an assignment to Ramey Air Force Base, Puerto Rico. He left active duty in 1970.

In 1971 hejoined theAir Force Reserve Squadron atWestoverAir Force Base in Massachusetts. In March 1972 he transferred to the 514th Associate Reserve Wing at McGuire Air Force Base, N.J. In May 1978, he became an Air Reserve Technician Instructor Pilot with the 730th Military Airlift Wing, Norton Air Force Base, Calif. In September 1984 he became permanent Operations Officer. John had more than 25 years of flying experience and 8,850 flying hours in multi-engine jet aircraft.

His military awards and decorations include the Meritorious Service Medal with one oak leafcluster, Air Force Achievement Medal, Air Force Outstanding Unit Award with three oak leaf clusters, and the Combat Readiness Medal with three oak leaf clusters, among others.

His military affiliations include a lifetime membership in the Reserve Officer Association and membership in the Air Force Association, the Order of Daedalians, and the Industrial College of the Armed Forces Alumni Organization. (CathyBergmann,John’s sister)

James L. Curd, Jr., ‘64

Last September brought the end of the Twentieth Century’s final summer, the arrival of its final autumn and the loss of one of our finest officers and gentlemen. Jim Curd passed away on Sept. 18, 2000 from a form of small cell cancer that he had defeated once before and had quietly battled for going on three years.

A second generation Air Force pilot, Butch, as many ofhis friends and relatives called him, was a genuine credit to the Academy, to the Air

Force, to his country ofwhich he was so proud, and to his friends and family, of which he was even more proud.

Butch was always a dedicated and patriotic individual and he served his country well. His dad had flown for SAC inWWII and Butch did the same over Vietnam. He flew multiple missions during the war years, but the ones I remember best were the Young Tiger refueling missions out of Kadena Air Base where I was stationed with my family. From time to time, I’d come home from “a day at the office” and there would be Butch, TDY from Beale again, playing with my two young sons on the floor, as much a part of the family as anyone could possibly be. Regardless ofhow manymissions he flew or howmany“saves” he made, Butch was always a family man above all else, a strong father figure to his boys, and a dependable big brother to the rest of us, always steady, always even-tempered, never panicked.

For about two years at Kadena, whenever he was TDY there, Jim and I used to play handball at the base gym. Afterwards, we’d have to replace our essential bodily fluids at the club. At these times we always talked about our families and responsibilities, our classmates, and American society in general. He had an unusually keen sense of how important families were in the bigger scheme of life, both our nuclear families and our extended families. He had a strong belief about how the good things came to people because they did their duty to their families, and that this in turn was their part of the bigger responsibilities for society. Being an officer and a gentleman was more than just a phrase to Butch. He believed that the officer part was the set ofresponsibilities we had and that being a gentleman meant that you lived up to those responsibilities, not with a bunch of fanfare and celebration to your credit, but logically and quietly and as a matter of fact.

He was proud of our class, he said once, because the simple timing of our graduation coupled with the war had forced us to stand up and confront our duty. ‘Yep,” he said, “and we stood up to it pretty darn tall.” He used to smile atyouwhen he said somethinglike that, not a broad, toothy, laughing smile, but a sly, knowing, closed lip smile, with his eyes shining at you like he was holding the punch line in, knowing that at any second you’re gonna get it and you’ll agree with him, and he was right.

Years later, when we had both left our military careers behind us, I’d come home to my Southern Californiahouse, first in HuntingtonBeach, then later in San Diego, and there would be Butch again, TDY from

One Cadet Dead, Two Seriously Injured in Accidents during Spring Break

By John Van Winkle Academy Spirit staff

Flags went half-staff at the Academy on Monday, April 2nd, in memory of a thirdclassman killed during spring break.

An automobile accident claimed the life of C3C Dan Murphy on the morning of April 1st. Murphy and C3C Robert Putney, both of Cadet Squadron 8, were south of Goodnight, Texas, returning from Houston in Murphy’s 1998 Chevy pickup truck at the time of the accident.

Putney, the driver, was traveling at a high rate of speed, and strayed into the center median, according to the initial accident report. He overcorrected to the right, causing the vehicle to slide sideways and roll over several times.

Murphy had to be extracted from the overturned vehicle, but was later pronounced dead on the scene, said Tela Mange, spokeswoman for the Texas State Highway Patrol. Putney was admitted to Northwest Texas Hospital in Amarillo for head trauma, and was released later that day. Both cadets were wearing their seatbelts.

In a separate incident, another cadet was hospitalizedduringthe Spring Break holiday. C3C Michael DiMaria, Cadet Squadron 2, was injured in a March 28 skiing accident near Vancouver, British Columbia.

DiMaria suffered severe head trauma and went into a coma as a resuit of the accident. He was admitted to Vancouver General Hospital’s intensive care unit on March 28, and was in critical and unstable condition at that point. The Air Force then arranged to have DiMaria’s mother flown from Montana to Vancouver to be at her son’s side.

DiMaria’s condition has since improved and he was listed in stable condition a week after the accident, according to TaraWilson, hospital spokeswoman.

A cadets-only taps vigil was held on the evening ofApril 5 in remembrance of Daniel Murphy. (See page 27 for story on the vigil.)

Steven E. Smith, ‘80

New Jersey, compliments of one airline or the other, playing catch with my kids or planning dinner with my wife, still and always, part of the family, and smiling. He smiled that same knowing smile all his life.

From his days as our cadet squadron commander, through the war years and the years that followed with Eastern and United Airlines, he was always the steady, dependable guy that you wanted someone to be who was sitting in the cockpit of your airplane. The crooked smile, the eyes still squinting from the bright sun aloft... all that was there, but what counted a lot more, that Butch had, was the comfortable, easy-going confidence that let you know that here was a man you could trust, that you could fully depend on. Some guys said he was more mature than the rest of us. Butch would’ve said, “Nahh.” But I think maybe he was.

There are hugeaspects ofButch’s life and personalitythat are totally overlooked in a small tribute like this. For example, he was always joking and was so much fun, at times he was a running wit machine, with one funny remark after another. And yet when you read about him like this, it sounds all so serious. The serious facts are that he was very proud of Karen and the boys, and his family and friends were very important to him.

When Butch was first diagnosed with cancer three years ago, doctors gave him three to six months to live. As this word spread, classmates called to lend their support. When Butch got on the phone he was always positive, cheerful without exception, and supportive... he was supportive to us, in our concerns, when he was the man with the cancer. As another classmate said, "The doctors obviously didn’t know the fiber of the man.” He was right, they didn’t, but those of us who did know him knew also that we were blessed and fortunate to have spent the time with him that we did.

In parting, Jim is survived by Karen, his loving wife of 36 years, his two sons, Jim and Tyler, ofwhom he was very proud, and his large, extended family of friends and classmates who will all miss him, very much. He was truly an officer and a gendeman. (Duke Nauton, Class of’64)

Steven E. Smith, ‘80

Lt. Col. (ANG) Steve Smith passed away Dec. 12, 2000 in Albuquerque, N.M. after a hard fought battle with non-Hodgkin’s type lymphoma. He touched the lives and made a difference to so many people during his 42 years and he will be deeply missed.

Steve made the most of his cadet years by participating and excelling at nearlyeverything he tried. He playedvarsity water polo and swam for four years at the Academy and also sang in the Chapel Choir. He completed a double major in economics and operations research, yet had time to spend listening to music or playing endless games of backgammon.

Steve exhibited a great sense of humor and dry wit, but truly loved a livelydebate, which he couldwin on persistence and stubbornness alone! He was an integral member of the Horny 18th Squadron and a founding member of Plato’s. His appetite was legendary as he supplemented the Academy diet with pancake after pancake at Wade’s in downtown Colorado Springs. Steve was a distinguished graduate of 1980.

Fulfilling his lifelong dream, Steve completed Undergraduate Pilot Training at Williams AFB, Ariz. and was the “Top Stick” in his class. He earned an F-15 assignment to Bitburg, Germany and then was selected to be an aggressor pilot at Nellis AFB. In 1988, Steve was hired to fly for Delta Air Lines and in 1990 he joined the New Mexico Air National Guard, flying the A-7 and F-16. He had just been chosen as the squadron’s operations officer days before being diagnosed with cancer and to a person, his squadron mates described Steve the way we remember him a man of integrity, a leader, and a friend.

On June 2,1984, Steve married his friend and soul mate, CathyWolff.

BretA. Hyde, ‘81

They were blessed with three precious children, Megan, Adam, and Mallory. He was a loving husband and father who enjoyed building things with his son or listening to his daughterplay the piano. He liked to take them hiking in the beautiful Sandia Mountains near their home in Albuquerque.

He also shared his love of swimming with them, and was known by kids in the neighborhood for being the best “under-water launcher” around! Steve was quick with a smile, a tease, or a hug and it was obvious his children were the joys ofhis life. We laughed as the years passed because instead of talking about new gadgets on airplanes, we’d compare the newest innovations on our mini vans!

True to his character, Steve downplayed the seriousness of his illness. Instead, he concerned himselfwith others and tried to make their lives easier. Although he had not flown for a few months, there he was helping another pilot who was having trouble with a systems class at Delta. He uncovered old notes and made sure his friend was well prepared for his next test.

In the end the things that mattered most to Steve were readily apparent. He was devoted to his God, his wife and children, and his family and friends. He was fortunate to be surrounded by Cathy and his parents, Joe and Esther Smith, throughout his fight. He provided them with lasting memories of a strong and faithful husband, and an extraordinary and talented son. Ifyou’re lucky, you have a friendship that survives over time and distance. I am lucky, as are the hundreds of people who called him their friend. Steve made a difference and he will be missed. (Bob Sajevic, ’80)

BretA. Hyde, ‘81

Snow floated gently downward on the darkly-clad cluster of friends and family assembled tighdy near a lone grave in Evergreen Cemetery located on the edge ofPost Falls, Idaho. A single, baritone voice sounded through the quiet, solemn crowd explaining the meaning of each fold made by the Fairchild AFB, Honor Guard as they folded the precious crimson, blue and white flag with gentleness and precision. Major (Retired) Bryan Kelchner, ‘81, paused as the honor guard completed the final fold and tucked the edge ofthe flag to produce the final triangular form of the flag which once raced freely and openly in the wind, very much like the deceased had raced around the track.

Following a close inspection, the honor guard handed the precious flag to Lt. Col. John Evans, ‘80, who walked sofdy along the snow-covered graveyard and presented the flag “On behalf of the USAF and the United States ofAmerica” to the new widow. Standing on either side of Susan Hyde were her two sons, Paul and Seth, both already taller than her, although only 13 and 15 years old. Following the exchange, the pastor asked everyone to read aloud and together the scripture verse selected by our deceased friend, Lt. Col. (Retired) Bret Hyde, ‘81.

“I havefought the goodfight, I havefinished the race, I have kept the faith. Now there is in storefor me the crown ofrighteousness, which the Lord the righteous Judge, will award to me on that day...” 2 Timothy 4:7-8

With heads bowed in prayer, a sharp volley of gunfire pierced the dead white silence and echoed across the valley, quickly followed by another volley, and another. The echoes fell away slowly in the distance. Seconds later, “Pree-sent Arms!” sounded through the trees and over the serene white-blanketed mountain country, as the sound of a lone trumpet rose out of the fading echoes of the twenty-onegun salute. A second trumpet, played by Lt. Col. Don Chapman, ‘81, emerged from across the cemetery grounds rhythmically echoing the lead trumpet.

With the final note of TAPS fading with the falling snow the crowd paid their last personal respects to Bret with prayers and flowers, and slowly departed the cemetery.

Earlier in the day during the memorial service, Bret’s Olympic Coach Bob Schule, and his lifelong friend Rob Langstaff, ‘84, tearfully recalled our memories ofBret, as a friend, father, husband, son, and runner. Bret ran his final race over the last two and a halfyears battlingAmyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS) to the end with the spirit of joy and determination that swallowed up all those around him.

Bret Hyde passed away quietly in his home in Post Falls Idaho, on Sunday, Jan. 14,2001, with his wife and two sons present. He was diagnosed with ALS (also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease) in August 1998, while serving on active duty at Hickam AFB, Hawaii. He was medically retired from the USAF in March 1999, and returned to Post Falls, Idaho to be close to his Mother (Ma Hyde) and Father (Raw Hyde), and his three sisters and their families.

Everyone who knew Bret will never forget the three U.S. Olympic trials he raced in the 3000m Steeple Chase, not to mention the numerous international and national cross country, road, and track races he won. Our minds are singed with the memory ofhis long lankyphysique, powerfully, and effortlessly running over miles and miles of grueling courses around the world, from Idaho to Tunisia.

Fellow USAFA Cross Country teammates will never forget Bret’s raw talent, which frustrated us all as he would return from a summer leave oftennis and no running, and quicklydecimate us in races after we spent the entire summer training. Of course he would beat us without gloating, but with always an encouragingword, and a twinkle ofjoy in his eye.

Fellow USAFA squadron mates will never forget Bret’s efforts to help each and everyone in the squadron pass the 1.5 mile run, as he would pace each group offour or five runners through the run, sometimes running backwards to speak encouragement to the runners. He would repeat this feat with every group until all 100-plus members of the squadron completed the 1.5-mile run.

We all have fervent memories of Bret as a runner, as the USAF Athlete oftheYear in 1988, and as the Olympian. But none will forget his greatest gift to us all, his compassionate, helpful, joyful heart. He was a man of courage and strength not known for anger or frustration, but only calm resolve. “In his career he beat many athletes because ofhis determination and because he was able to get the most out of his body,” recalls Bret’s Olympic coach Bob Shul. “And through it all, Bret never said, ‘What if.’ What if I had more speed. He accepted what he had and would tell me after loosing a race, ‘I really tried.’ There was never any doubt in my mind that was the case. I never saw him give up. He never gloated over a victory or dismayed over a defeat. He understood that all he could do was his best.”

Those who visited Bret in the last two years of his life will remember this same determination and courage as the disease ravaged all the muscles from his body. Routinely Bret would “do intervals” as he called it with a smile and twinkle in his eye. Everyday Bret would clutch the ends ofthe table with his hands, stand up from his wheelchair with the help of his wife, and proceed to run laps for two minutes, laboriously doing his best to lift each foot off the floor.

To the end of his life, Bret raced courageously. His closest friend from childhood and throughout the Academy, Rob Langstaff, ‘84, summarized all of our thoughts in the poem that he read during the memorial service.

What a person to admire

A man whosestrength ofcharacterand integrity were at a level to which we all aspire

His lovefor hisfellow man was great indeed

Always willing to help those in need

And he had a competitiveness that kept him winning

Coupled with a sense ofhumor that kept him grinning

And brave he stood, staring death in theface

Preparing himselffor thatfinal race

But even with his body withering thin

The disease could not take away, that twinkle, thatgrin

I lovedyou Bret; you were a greatfriend

And I know that this is not the end

As the music ofyour life on earth plays out itsfinal cord

We have peace in knowing thatyou are now with the Lord

But we will miss you Bret; we will miss you very much.

(Bryan L. Kelchner, Class of 1981)

Justin Brian Sanders, ’96

Captain Justin Brian Sanders, Class of 1996, Squadron 37, died Feb. 21, 2001 in a Navy aircraft accident off the coast of Florida at the age of 26. Captain Sanders was born May 24, 1974 in Oklahoma City, Okla., the son of O.M. “Bud” Sanders and the late Judy Sanders. He was a distinguished graduate from Jenks High School in 1992. Justin was active in wrestling, football, and show choir.

Justin entered undergraduate pilot training in February 1997 atVance AFB, Okla. after working as a casual officer for the USAFA military personnel flight. He graduated from pilot training on Feb. 20, 1998 with Class 98-05 as a first assignment instructor pilot in the T-37 assigned to Vance AFB. He started his career as a line instructor pilot in the 8th Flying Training Squadron and was hand selected to help stand up the 33rd FTS where he continued to work as a line IR After two years of being a line IP, Justin was selected to become the assistant flight commander of Standard Evaluation for the 33rd FTS. After three years of service, Justin was scheduled to begin training in October 2001 in the F-15C Eagle.

Justin married Carrie Lynn Carter on Sept. 12, 1998 in Tulsa at First Baptist Church where he was an active member.

Justin’s life was one that most people envy. From the time he was a young boy, Justin knew he wanted to fly jets. As a high school student he earned his private pilot’s license and loved flying his parents around Tulsa. After watching the Air Force Academy compete in a wresding tournament in Oklahoma, Justin decided he would attend the Air Force Academy. After four long years at the Zoo, Justin became a pilot his ultimate dream.

Everyone who knew Justin believed he could become anything he wanted. He was committed to his tasks and would not take “No” for an answer. He was the ultimate underdog. Justin loved to tell stories; and many are legendary. His infectious laugh and free spirit helped him to be a selfless friend to many. Above all, Justin lived a life ofintegrity, was a loving and devoted husband and loyal son.

We thank Justin’s wife, Carrie; his father Bud; and his sister Greta for sharing him with us. Justin was laid to rest at the USAFA cemetery with full military honors that included a fly-by of F-15Cs.

Justin’s friends and family find solace in the fact that he has been reunited with his mother as they fly together through the skies for eternity.

A memorial fund has been established in memory of Judy and Justin Sanders. Make checks payable to Jenks High School and send to Judy and Justin Sanders Memorial Fund, 205 E. B Street. Jenks Okla. 74037. (Melissa L. Bryant, Class of1996)

At press time we had learned ofthe deaths ofthe following graduates:

Mr. George H. Branch III, Class of 1964, who died on Jan. 25, 2001 in Orlando, Fla. of cancer.

Lt. Col. (Ret) Robert M. Evans, Jr., Class of 1966, who died on Feb. 14, 2000 in Ashton, Md. of cancer.

Our sincere condolences to the family and friends ofthese graduates.

The Secret Life ofWaldo F. Dumbsquat

ByDon Hall,‘76

A bit of drool leaked from the left corner of C/4C Waldo F. Dumbsquat’s mouth. As the sun warmed the part ofhis face that wasn’t shielded by the brim ofhis wheel cap, a soft snore escapedWaldo’s limp body. Though asleep, the doolie was faintly aware of the high collar ofhis parade dress tunic as it cut uncomfortably into his neck. Beads of sweat trickled down his legs and into his low quarter shoes. The wind was still today in the stands at Falcon stadium and the graduation ceremony dragged on in its inexorable way. A disembodied voice droned monotonously from the loudspeaker system.

“Hey, Waldo, wake up!” urged the freshman’s friend and roommate, “Regs” Buch.

‘Yes sir, I have a Form 10 right here!” mumbled Waldo groggily.

“No Form 10 needed here. We’re alreadybeingpunished.” noted Regs. “The guest speaker has decided to depart from his prepared notes. Could be hours.”

“Did you say hours?”

“Might eclipse halftime at the Orange Bowl.”

‘Wow! That long!”

“At least the Orange Bowl has a rock band and fireworks.”

“And a football game...”

‘We’ve got a football field.”

AOG MAJOR EVENTS SCHEDULE

1-4

3

8

“Listen to us... we’re losing our minds!”

The bleacher bench began to press menacingly into the doolies’ thin" flesh. No amount of shifting around could alleviate the discomfort. The firsties unconscious in the folding chairs on the football field fared no better. SERE and the one-legged stool could not compare to this torture. The Cadet Wing teetered upon the brink of stagnant hypoxia! Regs looked out across the sea of helpless, sunburned faces.

“Someone has to do something!” he cried out.

Moved by the emotion his helpless friend expressed and the need to keep this column short,Waldo sprang into action. Ducking into a closed concession stand, the freshman spoke the magic words “cell phones for doolies”. Instantly, he transformed into the hulky and heroic Colonel Waldo F. Dumbsquat... a man who had never been to the Orange Bowl. With large strides, the officer strode to the Press Box and commandeered the PA system.

‘Wing atten-hut!” boomed the colonel’s voice throughout the stadium.

“Gentlemen, you are dismissed!”

While hats soared into the air and the Thunderbirds (now min fuel) roared majesticallyoverhead, the colonel magicallymorphed back into the puny shape ofWaldo. Confused dignitaries left the stage.

As Waldo made his way to the bus convoy, he realized that another class had successfully graduated and he, the perpetual doolie, had to get ready for BCT again! It really was an infinite number of days until his graduation.

Waldo sighed. ^

2001 REUNION CONTACTS

(A/O 1 June 2001)

‘61 (40th) 12-16 SEP 01-Utah

Dr Tom Eller 1504 N Nevada Ave

Colorado Springs CO 80907

Ph: 719-632-2259 (H) 303-796-4042 (W)

E-mail: eller@compuserve.com (H) teller@usa.capgemini.com (W)

Hotel: Wyndham 800-962-6982 or 719-260-1800

‘66 (35th) 26-30 Sep 01 SDSU awav

POC: Col Vic Andrews 8215 Broughton Ct Colorado Springs CO 80920

Ph: 719-592-1546 (H) 719-553-8107 (W)

E-mail: vicandsue@aol.com, (H) victor.andrews@usaa.com (W)

Hotel: Wyndham 800-962-6982 or 719-260-1800

‘71 (30th) 31 Oct-4NovOl - Army

POC:Col Harry Davis, 711080 6650 Alberta Drive Colorado Springs CO 80918

Ph: 719-266-0804 (H)

719-333-2250 (W)

E-mail: no Home email harry.davis@usafa.af.mil (W)

Hotel: Wyndham 800-962-6982 or 719-260-1800

‘76 (25th) 31 Oct-4 Nov 01-Army

Lt Col Dan Beatty 12196 Stanley Canyon Rd

Colorado Springs CO 80921

Ph: 554-6160 (W) 488-1962 (H)

E-mail:djbeattyjr@aol.com (H) whrlybrd76@aol.com (H) or (W) daniel.beatty@peterson.af.mil

Hotel: Antlers Adam’s Mark 800-444-ADAM or 719-473-5600

81 (20th) 10-14 Oct 01 - Wyoming

POC: Col Jay Santee, 813585

2767 Lear Dr

Colorado Springs CO 80920-5901

Ph: 719-534-9836 (H)

E-mail: santee@macol.net (H)

Hotel: Embassy Suites 719-599-9100

‘91 (10th) 10-14 Oct 01 - Wyoming

POC: Capt Carson Tavenner 4414C Bighorn Dr USAF Academy CO 80840

E-mail:carson.tavenner @usafa.af.mil (W)

Website: www.usafa.91.com

Hotel: Sheraton Colorado Springs 719-576-5900

Send your donation now to The AOG Annual Fund Association of Graduates

Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Drive U.S. Air Force Academy, CO 80840-4475

AOG Humanitarian Fund

Helps Terminally Ill Grads

By Mark Anderson, ’61

The AOG Board of Directors has established a Humanitarian Fund for Terminally-ill Members to provide financial assistance to eligible members who need help with the financial challenges of a terminal illness such as Lou Gehrig’s disease, cancer and heart disease.

Here are the pertinent points:

How to make a request: Send a written request with pertinent information on the nature of the illness, assistance needed, and who the AOG can contact for further details to The Humanitarian Fund, Association of Graduates, 3116 Academy Drive, USAFA, Colo. 808404475.

- How to contribute: Make your tax-deductible contribution to The AOG Humanitarian Fund at the address above.

It is hoped that this effort to serve our graduates (taking care of our own) will be well received (and well supported). We’ll keep you posted on progress. Your Humanitarian Fund committee members are:

Larry Freeman: 16422 Ledge Way, San Antonio, TX 78232, (H) 210494-4827, (O) 210-494-7803, Fax 210-494-0133, lbfinc @sprintmail.com, fsw@juno.com.

Vic Andrews: 8215 Broughton Court, Colorado Springs, CO 80920, (H) 719-592-1546, (O) 719-533-8107, Fax 719-533-8447, victor.andrews@usaa.com.

Mark Anderson: 8852 Rolling Acres Trail, Fair Oaks Ranch, TX 78015, (H) 830-981-8341, Fax 830-981-8341, marcus@texas.net.

Academies OfferJoint Resume Database System

As a benefit ofmembership, your AOG offers a FREE resume registration service. We have joined forces with the alumni associations of the Military Academy, the Naval Academy and the Coast Guard Academy to jointly provide online access to resumes of service academy graduates to prospective employers.

To be a part of the Joint Service Academies Resume Database Systern (JSARDS), visit our website at www.aog-usafa.org, click on “graduate job programs” in the left side bar, and follow the links. Ifyou have questions about this service for members, please contact Wayne Taylor at (719) 472-0300, DSN 333-2067, or e-mail at career@aogusafa.org.

Ways to Give to The AOG and The Air Force Academy

Method

*Cash

*Gift of appreciated assets or other property

*Bequests (by will or trust)

*Gift of life insurance

*Gift of personal residence or farm

*Gift with life income for donor and/or spouse.

*Bequest of IRA or qualified retirement plan asset

*Gift of income with assets to heirs.

Benefits to Donor

*Full income tax deduction. Immediate impact to AOG/USAFA.

*Full income tax deduction. Capital gains tax savings. Immediate impact to AOG/USAFA.

*Maximum flexibility. Full use of assets during lifetime. Estate tax savings.

*Ability to make larger gift with smaller annual (or one-time) cash outlay. Income tax deduction for current value and/or cost of premiums.

*Donor retains use for life. Partial income tax deduction. Estate tax saving.

*Lifetime income. Income, capital gain, estate tax savings.

*Income and estate tax savings. Assets may be taxed at rates as high as 85% at death ifpassed to beneficiaries. immediate impact for AOG/ USAFA. Estate tax savings. Increased inheritance for heirs.

For more information and a free booklet on charitable giving and estate planning, contact the Development Office at the AOG, (719) 472-0300 or e-mail: Gary Howe at Gary.Howe@usafa.af.mil.

Standing Nominating Committee to Identify AOG Board Candidates

The current bylaws of the Association of Graduates (AOG) contain provisions for the manner in which candidates for elected director positions are identified, evaluated and nominated.

Of primary interest in the procedures is the establishment of a standing, vis-a-vis an ad hoc, nominating committee of the board. This committee will have the responsibilityfor identifying, researching, interviewing, evaluating and recommending to the board candidates for future board membership.

In essence, the nominating committee will maintain a continuing list of potential nominees from which it may select candidates to meet the board’s requirements for service over a particular term ofoffice. Individual candidates will be constantly evaluated regarding their qualifications, ability and desire to serve.

This and future issues of Checkpointswill carrythe names ofmembers ofthe nominating committee and information on how each can be reached. Interested AOG members may contact one of the committee members to indicate their desire to serve as a director.

An indication of interest, however, will not necessarily result in placement on the list of qualified candidates. The needs of the association will take precedence at all times.

Directors Nominating Committee

(Contact one of the following to show interest in becoming a candidate for the AOG Board Directors.)

MrWilliamW. Maywhort, ‘68, Chair 6851 E. Powers Ave. Greenwood Village, CO 80111

Home: (303) 773-6307

Office: (303) 290-1620

Col (Ret) Joseph G. Burke, 70 Col (Ret) James A. Shaw, Jr., 67 RO. Box 505 3116 Academy Dr. Keuka Park, NY 14478 USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475

Home: (315) 536-3134

Work: (315) 536-3135

Maj Gen (Ret) AlanV. Rogers, ‘64 4600 North 32nd Road Arlington, VA 22207

Home: (703) 237-7375

Work: (703) 227-6719

Home: (719) 488-2185

Work: (719) 472-0300

Mrs JodyA. Merritt, ‘89 5751 Condor Court

San Jose, CA 95118

Home: (408) 269-6400

Office: (408) 744-2104

Hire an Academy Graduate

Many of you are in positions to make or influence hiring decisions for your company. Your Association of Graduates, along with the alumni organizations from Army, Navy, Coast Guard, and Merchant Marines, offers companies online access to the Joint Service Academy Resume Database System (JSARDS).

This is an excellent source for those companies seeking highly-qualified, well-educated and motivated employees. This database is hosted and administered by The Destiny Group. Hiring managers can both see and hear a prospective employee via the Internet while reviewing their resume along with a fully documented file of the individual’s skills and desires.

Fees for access to JSARDS generally are based on the length of the contracted access period. To find out more about this service, please visit our website at www.aog-usafa.org, click on “Graduate Job Programs” in the left side bar, and follow the links to the Corporate Demo under JSARDS.

Return With HonorVideo Available Directly Through the AOG

The video of the dramatic AOG-sponsored movie, “Return With Honor,” is now available for purchase direcdy through the AOG. Orderyour copy now ofthis very powerful film byvisiting the merchandise site on theAOGwebsite (www.aog-usafa.org), bycalling theAOG (719) 472-0300, or byvisiting Doolittle Hall. Cost is $19 forAOG members and $24 for nonmembers, plus $5 shipping and handling.

FIGHT FOR A CAUSE

AOG SUPPORT OF WING OPEN HELPS RAISE $17,000

The 2001 Wing Open Boxing Championship was a huge success on Sunday, March 4.

Consider the following—all four defending champions successfully defended their titles; over 5,700 fans attended the event in Clune Arena; more than $17,000 was raised to benefit two children battling life-threatening diseases; and, because ofthe enthusiasm shown by the Cadet Wing at the event, the Commandant of Cadets Brig. Gen. Mark Welsh III cancelled a Saturday morning inspection (SAMI).

“I believe all the bouts were equally matched,” saidboxing coach Eddie Weichers. “I can’t tell you howpleased I was with notjust the competition in every fight, but the spirit the Cadet Wing and the Cadet Drum and Bugle Corp displayed was outstanding. Ifthere was one disappointment in the fight card, it came in the 119-pound division where three-time Open champion Joel Rivera went unopposed to give him his fourth Open title. He becomes only the ninth boxer in Open history to earn four titles.

“I know Joel would have preferred winning the title in the ring,” said Weichers. “But, we just didn’t have any boxer in the program that wanted to take him on. He is that good. But I also know that he has his sights set on winning the national title.”

TheWing Open Outstanding Boxer Award went to C2C Joseph Harding in the 165-pound weight division. Harding used a strong right hand to dominate C1C Michael Pontius, a runner-up in last year’s Wing Open. Harding won a 5-0 decision for the upset.

In the first bout of the night, defending Wing Open champion C1C Adam Roberts won a unanimous 5-0 decision over C4C Jeb Fredrickson II in the 125-pound division. Fredrickson was the aggressor throughout the match and kept Roberts on the defense. However, the more experienced Roberts successfully countered with combinations and flurries to earn his second Open title.

“I knew Jeb had the reach and size advantage over me, so I became a counter-puncher,” Roberts said. “He was more aggressive tonight than what he has been in practice, so that surprised me a little bit. But I think I did a good job of parrying his punches.”

C1C Chris Geisel used an aggressive straight-on approach against C2C Eamon Murray in the 132-pound weight division to win a 5-0 decision. In the 147-pound weight division, C3C Ulysses Linares successfully countered C3C Frankie Woods’ attack to win a unanimous decision. C4C Clell Knight won a unanimous decision over C2C Thomas Cisar in the 156-pound weight division. Knight used his height and reach advantage to take the match. In a hard-fought bout, C1C Aaron Banks won the 175-pound division over C1C Brandon Tellez on a 5-0 decision. Banks, a runner-up in last year’s Open, was the aggressor throughout the match, but Tellez was able to back Banks up several times with hard counter punches.

C1C John Pantages won his second consecutive Wing Open title in the 185-pound division with a 5-0 decision over C1C Michael Thompson, a runner-up in the Open for the second time. Pantages used a strong left hand to force Thompson into two standing eight counts in the final round. In the 195-pound division, defending national champion Dustin Brown used his experience to overpower C3C Christopher Hart. Brown used an over-hand right throughout the three rounds to take a unanimous decision from the five judges. In the final bout ofthe night, defending champion C1C Lee Poage won the heavyweight division over C1C Derek Angel. Poage won his second consecutive Open title. Angel was a game boxer throughout the bout, but couldn’t match Poage’s ring experience. In the end, it was the closest decision of the night, with Poage winning on a 3-2 vote by the judges. ■

Air Force captured its third consecutive National Boxing Championship on 7 April and in

the process crowned three gold medal winners at the City Pasecond-place Penn State University with 32 and the Naval Academy with 27. “I can’t give enough credit to our boxers and how they performed throughout this tournament,” said head coach Eddie Weichers Jr. “It was evident that the time and energy that they put in throughout our season paid offhere. We were able to go toe to toe with some ofthe best collegiate boxers in the nation and come out on top. I couldn’t be happier.”

Senior Joel Rivera, who was seeking his first national title after winning four wing open championships, finally came out on top in the 119-pound division. Rivera defeated the University ofNevada-Las Vegas’ Joey Song. Rivera lost to Song in the regional competition two weeks ago in Las Vegas.

Rivera used strong combinations throughout the three-round bout to gain the victory. It was a very emotional bout for Rivera after losing a gold-medal opportunity at nationals the past three years. “Coach (Weichers) told me that this was going to be the last time that we were going to be in the ring together, so that added to my emotions,” said Rivera. “It seemed like everything came together in this, my senior year. This victory means a lot to me. I knew it was the last fight in my boxing career and after six minutes in the ring it would be over.”

Joining Rivera as gold medal winners were Ulysses Linares (147-pound division) and Dustin Brown (195-pound division). Linares won a unanimous decision over Penn State’s Nathan LaBuda. Brown won his second consecutive national title by dominating Max Raymond from UNLV. Lreshman Clell Knight lost his 156-pound final to Alex Komlov, a senior from Penn State.

“I can’t begin to tell you how proud I am ofthis team and the effort that they put forth throughout the season,” Weichers said. “Clell will be back. He gained valuable experience in his first season as a collegiate boxer. I think he is destined to be a national champion in the future. “Dustin proved why he is a defending champion. He took the match over a talented UNLV opponent and Ulysses fought a very smart fight against an experienced Penn State boxer,” Weichers said.

WOMEN’S GYMNASTICS WIN NATIONAL TITLE

ir Lorce edged the competition to win its first-ever team title in the finals ofthe U.S. Gymnastics Collegiate National Championships, April 13, with a final team score of 192.825. University of alifornia Davis secured second-place with 192.400, followed by Seattle Pacific University with 192.050 and Texas Woman’s University with 191.750.

On floor, Bethany Stott led the way for the falcons, scoring a 9.900, followed byJennifer Dougherty and Kimberly Broughton who both scored a 9.825, to help give Air Force a team score of49.150.

“The team believed in themselves and they believed in the coaches. They trained extremely hard and had the focus to keep it all together during the championship,” said women’s head coach Lisa Woody. Woody was named North Central Region Women’s Gymnastics Coach of the Year and USAG Collegiate Head Coach of the Year.

“All in all, we had a great season. We broke 11 AFA women’s gymnastics records, maintained a team GPA over a 3.00, qualified to the NCAA Regional Championships for the first time ever, came home with the USAG Collegiate Team Championship and had 11 individual USAG Collegiate All-Americans including the National Beam Champion,” said Woody.

“The team was so deserving of winning Nationals. They’ve worked so hard for it and it finally paid off! Personally, I cried like a baby... so relieved, so happy, so proud ofwhat this team has accomplished,” she said.

The Air Force men’s gymnastics team also participated in the finals of the U.S. Gymnastics Collegiate Nationals Championships, placing fourth.

The Falcons had 13 individuals qualify as All-Americans.

By SrA Gil Boisson/Athletic Media Relations

THE JOE SCOTT ERA IS UNDERWAY

first look at the final results of the 2000-01 men’s basketball season would leave you without the total picture. You find a final record of 8-21 and a 3-11 mark and eighth place finish in the Mountain West Conference. Those numbers don’t begin to tell the story of a program that is turning around under the direction of the former Princeton standout and assistant coach. The team played the first all-Division I schedule in school history that featured 10 post-season teams from the previous year.

“We are preparing to win games in one of the toughest leagues in the country,” Scott said. “I didn’t want to send our guys the wrong message by playing a schedule that didn’t get us ready.” Scott picked up his first collegiate win as Air Force defeated Houston, 59-53, in the season opener at the Black Coaches Association Classic at Wake Forest. The victory was Air Force’s first on the road to open a season since 1983 and just the third ever. The win also marked Air Force’s first against a team from a major conference on the road since beating Auburn, 48-46, in 1980. The Falcons followed the victory with seven consecutive losses, as the installation of a new system and a completely different coaching style took its toll. In addition, Air Force was playing with a young team. “They were all freshmen at the beginning ofthe season,” Scott said. “Everyone was learning how to play the way we wanted them to.”

The Falcons started two freshmen early on, Robert Todd and Josh Wallace. A third rookie, Joe Gerlach, joined them in the starting lineup later. By season’s end, freshmen would log nearly 33 percent of the total minutes and freshmen and sophomores would add up to 65 percent. Further adding to the difficulty early on was 2000 MWC freshman ofthe year Tom Bellairs missing the first five games with a stress fracture. Once Bellairs returned and got comfortable with a move from forward to center, the Falcons put together their most successful run of the season. Air Force won three offour games beginning with a 63-56 overtime win over Central Connecticut State, an NCAA Tournament team from a year ago. The team overcame a 20-point second-halfdeficit to get the win. The deficit is the largest overcome by an Air Force team in the last 15 years.

Life in the MWC would be difficult, but the team showed signs ofwhat may come soon. Air Force was in every game. Air Force would beat a talented Colorado State team, 46-45, and handle New Mexico, 53-49, to record the first back-to-back home conference wins since 1995. The 45 points allowed against the Rams is the fourth lowest total in Air Force’s 21 years of conference play. Air Force picked up its final conference win against Utah, 71 -60, to record the first win over a firstplace conference team since beating 21 st-ranked UTEP in 1992. Air Force just missed a winning conference home record two nights later when BYU escaped Clune Arena, 51-50, behind a questionable call late in the game.

The Falcons and Cougars would play another classic just five days later in the opening round of the MWC Tournament in Las Vegas, Nev. Air Force led by as many as 11 points in the second half before BYU rallied to win late, 69-54. BYU continued its fine play to win the tournament and advance to the NCAA Tournament.

“Successful, winning programs have players that improve individually each year,” the coach said. “That is our challenge now. We need each player to improve his game and make basketball important. When you get that, you have something to really build on.” Air Force will return all but one player who played regularly for next year. Coupled with another tough schedule, the Falcons could be poised to complete the turnaround sooner than anybody thought possible.

By Troy Garnhart

GRADS COMPETE AT U.S. RUGBY TRYOUT

Six USAFA grads recently competed for positions on the U.S. National Rugby Team, known as the U.S. Eagles. The ruggers showed their stuff as members of the All-Armed Forces team during the National All-Star Championships (NASC). The NASC showcases the nation’s best rugby players as they compete for regional bragging rights and selection to the national team. This year the Armed Forces team won their four-team division by defeating the Northeast 33-26 and Southern California, 20-18. Representing USAFA at this prestigious tournament were: Maj. Ken Holliday, ’88; Lt. Ben Trautwein, ’98; Lt. James Gherdovich, ’98; Lt. Matt Carmody, ’99; Lt. Dylan Newman, ’99; and Lt. Joe Kennedy, ’98. Rugby is now a funded Armed Forces varsity sport. To learn more about Air Force rugby, go to www.usafrugby.com

WRESTLERS KEEP HOLD OFALL-ACADEMYTITLE

Surrounded by a crowd of screaming and yelling Army faithfuls, Falcon Kevin Floy won in sudden death overtime and captured the heavyweight title at the Academy Wrestling Championships at West Point February 3. Air Force grapplers amassed 103.5 points in the tournament to defend their “all-Academy” title. The Falcons own three out of seven team titles in the tournament’s history, as does Navy.

Floy’s defeat of Midshipman Steve Kovach denied Navy the points it needed to pass Army in a quest for second place. The Black Knights edged out the midshipmen 88 to 87. Next were the Citadel (49.5 points), Virginia Military Institute (27), and Coast Guard (22.5), Norwich (7), and the Merchant Marine Academy (5.5).

Falcon Scott Frohardt (149 lbs.) won the James K. Shelton Award as the tournament’s most outstanding wrestler. Air Force advanced seven wrestlers to the championship round and came away with five individual champions.

Air Force Coach Wayne Baughman won co-coach of the year honors.

Frohardt won his third consecutive title becoming only the fourth person in the tournament’s history to win a championship three times. He has an opportunity for an unprecedented fourth title next year.

Falcons Heath McKim (125), Andy Peters (133), Alex Pelbath (165), and Hoy (Hwt) were the other four champions for Air Force. McKim defeated Army’s Brett Gendron, the defending champion and No. 1 seed in the finals for his championship. Pelbath edged Coast Guard’s Chris Fertig 3-2 in the finals. Fertig, a Division III All-American last year, tried for a takedown in the final seconds of the match, but Pelbath stood his ground in one of the most exciting match-ups of the tournament.

SWIMMING TEAMS FINISH STRONG

The Air Force men’s and women’s swimming teams placed third and seventh, respectively, in the Mountain West Conference Championships.

Air Force’s Sarah Law was named the MWC Women’s Diver of the Year while her coach, Stan Cumow, was named the Women’s Diving Coach ofthe Year. Air Force men dominated the 200-yard breastroke, taking first and third-place spots. Falcon Matt Ihlenfeld won the gold at 1:58.67, BYU’s Nicholas Tobler was second at 2:00.75 and Falcon John Dayton took third. On the women’s side, Air Force’s Sarah Law captured the platform diving title.

AIR FORCE WINS SERVICE ACADEMIES BASEBALL CLASSIC

Air Force recorded its fifth Service Academy Championship, which are more wins than any other team. The Falcons won the tournament in 1990 and ‘91, then tied for the title in ’96, before winning it again in ’99. Air Force went 2-1 in “round robin” play this year; defeating Army and Navy and losing to Memphis. Mike Thiessen was selected Tournament MVP and was joined by teammates Matt Koegel, Price Paramore and Mike Tufte on the All-Tournament Team.

FENCER TAKES SECOND AT WORLD FENCING TOURNAMENT

Cadet 3rd Class Seth Weston is one of the top-ranked junior fencers in the world. He recently traveled to a world tournament in Cuba where he took second place.

In his eight years of fencing, Weston has traveled to 20 countries, quite an accomplishment considering he got into fencing by accident. “I had a friend who fenced and I followed him to the gym one day,” Weston said. He didn’t earn any trophies during his early competitions. “I got destroyed the first year,” Weston said.

In his second year offencing, he won the under-13 competition at the Junior Olympics. “His power of concentration is very high under pressure,” said Abdel Salem, Academy fencing coach. “He performs very well under pressure. He’s become more mature this year and it’s shown in his fencing. He still needs a lot of work but I’m very happy with him.”

“It’s a whole different ball park,” he says of the future. “Right now, I’m just trying to keep my grades up and make the World Team.’Tm hoping to go for the 2004 or 2008 Olympics,” Weston said. “It’s kind of a long term goal.”

AFA SWIMMER LEAVES GOODWILL IN HER WAKE

■ Success in pool equaled only by her efforts to help others

The whirlwind known as Candace Staubitz will graduate this spring from the Air Force Academy. She will move to New Orleans and attend the Tulane University medical school.

Around Colorado Springs, she will leave behind a widespread mark of kindness.

Staubitz was a chaperon for a “Keep Kids Off the Street Night” at Lewis-Palmer High School and a YMCA post-prom event for high school students. She cleaned windows and raked leaves at senior citizens’ homes. She judged an elementary school science fair. She volunteered at the academy hospital. When faculty members needed a baby-sitter, she was there.

In the academy’s sports information department, her succinct biography—listing volunteer stints and athletic, military and academic honors— took up two pages.

“At the academy, I feel that everybody is giving me so much, so 1 wanted to give something back,” Staubitz said.

It’s not like she had hours to spare every day.

As a captain of the Air Force women’s swimming team, she trains long hours. She was a Mountain West Conference championship meet c^psolation finalist in the 100-meter butterfly and a finalist on the 200mdter medley relay.

In 1997, she was voted the team’s most motivational freshman.

She’s been on the all-Mountain West academic team in 2000 and 2001, besides constant honors on the Air Force dean’s and superintendent’s lists.

For those cadets needing help in their studies, she’s been a chemistry and English tutor since 1999.

“I like to keep busy, she said.

She started early. Classical violin lessons began at age seven. While she doesn’t practice the violin an hour almost every day like she did before she arrived at Air Force from Mesa, Ariz., she played in the academy’s Bluebard 1998 production of “Damn Yankees” and the 1999 production of “Camelot.”

Among her attempts to branch out was the completion of an Air Force basic free-fall parachuting program.

“I got over my fear of heights pretty fast,” Staubitz said. “It was kind of like floating for a bit.”

But not for long. She had things to do.

SPORTS

HOCKEY PLAYERS EARN RECOGNITION

■ Kielkucki Named Player of the Year

Senior goalie Marc Kielkucki and senior winger Scott Bradley earned top honors in College Hockey America. Brian Gomick,Andy Berg and Joe Locallo were named to all-CHA teams while several Falcons earned CHA all-academic team honors. Kielkucki, the standout senior goaltender from Brooklyn Park, Minn., was named the CHA Player of the Year. Kielkucki is the first Falcon ever to earn conference player ofthe year honors. The 6-foot-5, 200-pounder started 35 ofthe 37 games and was named the CHA Defensive Player ofthe Week four times this season. He led the CHA and ranked 11th in the nation in minutes played. Bradley, a senior winger from Colorado Springs, Colo., was named the CHA Student-Athlete ofthe Year. He carries a 3.47 grade point average and is majoring in civil engineering. Kielkucki was also named the goaltender on the all-CHA first team. He was joined on the all-CHA team by teammates Brian Gomick and Andy Berg. Gomick was named as a forward on the first team while Berg was chosen as a forward on the second team. Air Force freshman defenseman Joe Locallo was named to the CHA all-rookie team. Joining Bradley on the CHA all-academic team were Gomick, Billy O’Reilly, Jeff Zurick and Justin Hamilton.

Thank You Fans: Air Force’s six largest home crowds of the season came in the last six games. The largest crowd in 10 years at the Academy (3,093) watched the Air Force-Army game, March 2. Air Force averaged 1,529 fans per home game, the second highest average in the CHA. The average attendance is also AFA’s highest since Frank Serratore’s first season (1997-98) when an average of 1,531 watched Falcon hockey. Over the last six games, the Falcons averaged 2,218 fans per game.

The Serratore Magic: In the two years prior to Serratore’s arrival, the Falcons won a combined 12 games, all at home, and won just 24 percent oftheir games. In his fourth season, Serratore has led the Falcons to 65 wins and has won 47 percent of his games. Perhaps the most accurate measure of any Academy coach is his success against the other academies. Serratore is nearly perfect in that regard. Since Navy does not have a varsity team, the only competition is against Army. At Air Force, Serratore is 7-1-1 vs. Army.

■ FALCONS MAKE MARK AT CLAY TARGET COMPETITION

1C Matej Hajdinjak (left) takes aim at a fast moving target during the final round of trap shooting competition at the Association of College Unions International 33 rd Annual Intercollegiate Clay Target Championship 29 March-1 April in San Antonio. Hajdinjak hit 193 of 200 targets to win the Class B competition.

C2C Jonathan Richards hit 183 of 200 to win the Class D competition.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY BOB JENSEN

■ FALCON FOOTBALL SCHEDULE FOR 2001 SEASON LOCATED ON THE BACK COVER.

GE TPH Y SICAE

BY COL. RANDY SPENTMAN DIRECTOR OF ATHELETICS

Per the USAFA Vision Document

Our athletic programs must continue to provide all cadets a realistic leadership experience in a mentally and physically challenging environment through physicaleducation,fitness training and testing and intramural and intercollegiate athletic competition. The inclusion ofphysical education, intramurals and intercollegiate competition as core programs is easy to understand, but what role does fitness testing play in cadet leadership development?

“ON THE FIELDS OF FRIENDLY STRIFE ARE SOWN THE SEEDS THAT, UPON OTHER FIELDS, ON THE OTHER DAYS WILL BEAR THE FRUITS OF VICTORY!”

In addition to measuring overall physical fitness, the cadet fitness testing program helps develop the key leadership traits of teamwork, discipline, perseverance, selfconfidence, emotional control, physical stamina, overcoming adversity and maintaining a highly competitive attitude. This ongoing fitness test assessment is so critical it is folded into a cadet’s record to determine if they meet graduation requirements. Here is how it works

TheAcademy graduation standard for the athletic pillar is to earn at least a 2.00 cumulative (Cum) Physical Education Average (PEA). Cum PEA is a balanced, fouryear, total fitness measure. Additionally, passing six semester hours of physical education (PE) credit and completing courses in physical development, aquatics, combatives, individual lifetime sports and team sports are Academy core course graduation requirements.

PEA is a function of three testing elements - PE courses, the Physical Fitness Test (PFT) and the Aerobic Fitness Test (AFT). The PFT is a timed five-event test (pull-ups, standing long jump, sit-ups, push-ups and 600 yard run) designed to measure muscular strength, power and anaerobic fitness. The AFT is a timed 1.5-mile crosscountry course designed to measure aerobic fitness.

PE, PFT and AFT raw scores are converted to a traditional 4.00 (A thru F) permanent grade. The respective

permanentgrades are then averaged for PEA computation PEA 50% PFT + 35% PE + 15% AFT. The averaged grades are weighted based on the expected time commitment devoted to each element. To pass the AFT and PFT (1.00 or D grade), cadets must score at least 200 of the possible 500 points on each test. NOTE: Passing each elementwith a D gradeonlybuilds a 1.00 Cum PEA.

There are no minimum passing scores for each of the five individual PFT events. However, to promote balanced personal fitness, a Fitness Threshold is established for each PFT event. Cadets not meeting any Fitness Threshold are enrolled into a mandatory athletic reconditioning program and expected to improve, but are not withheld from meeting graduation standards.

Athletic probation is part of a rehabilitation program to help physically deficient cadets; placing deficient cadets on notice that they need to demonstrate proficiency while on probation. Cadets are placed on athletic probation for failing a testing element (PE, PFT or AFT) or earning less than a 2.00 semester or Cum PEA. If proficient in PFT, AFT and PEA, cadets not meeting a PFT individual event Fitness Threshold for the first time are placed into a squadron-level administered get-well program. Repeat occurrences ofnot meeting a Fitness Threshold results in athletic probation and mandatory athletic reconditioning.

To summarize, fitness testing in combination with physical education courses are the key testing elements that build a cadet’s Cum PEA. The Academy has embraced Cum PEA as the best, and most balanced fouryear assessment available to measure a cadet’s physical and leadership development through athletics. Fitness testing is a key process that helps to ensure Army Gen. Douglas MacArthur’s famous quote still rings true On the fields offriendly strife are sown the seeds that, upon otherfields, on other days will bear the fruits of victory! m

CLASS NEWS

Pete Todd

1250 BigValley Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80919-1015

Home: (719) 531-5874

FAX: (719) 531-6697

E-mail: petetodd@aol.com

Percent members: 83

As promised last quarter, this issue’s guest columnist is Kent MONTAVON, who took his bride, Fredda, on a Smithsonian Institution Study Trip to China during the last two weeks in September last year. Herewith, his account of their journey:

‘We had three professors who accompanied us and gave us a great deal of information on different aspects of Chinese life. One was an historian, another an anthropologist, and the third was an expert in Chinese art. We got lots more out of the trip than just sightseeing. We did go to Beijing (and the Great Wall), Xian (and the Terra Cotta Warriors), Chongqing (and the new General Stillwell Museum), three days on a cruise boat going down the Yangtze River (site of the massive Three Gorges Dam), then to Wuhan and on to Shanghai.

‘It was really a great experience; heartily recommended. If you have any inkling of doing something like this, I would recommend it be done before 2004, when they will close up that dam and start filling up the reservoir. It will be the largest dam in the world when completed and will fill a lake behind it up to 180 feet deep. Sadly, it will drastically change the wonderful scenery of the Yangtze River. It will also displace over one million people who live along the banks of the river and will have to be relocated.

“TheStillwell Museum in Chongqing is in the building that was used as Stillwell’s headquarters. It was built largely with funds donated by veterans of those headquarters. There is one room that tells the story of the Hump Airlift, another that tells of the Flying Tigers, and other rooms that give more general information on the mission of that volunteer group.

‘In the room for the Flying Tigers, I found a picture of Ed McComas {Ed: Published in the March column.) If my memory serves me (though it hasn’t for some time now), that is the same picture I remember seeing in Mrs. Mac’s office back in those years long ago. Seeing it there brought back some more nostalgic thoughts.

“FYI: McDonalds, KFC and Pizza Hut are alive and well in China, though Pizza Hut is doing less well than the other two. We were told that the Chinese generally do not eat cheese, so pizza is not a big seller. (Is that why there are so few Chinese in Wisconsin?) But McDonalds is everywhere. In fact, the world’s largest McDonalds is in Beijing.

‘People ask what was the most memorable part of the trip. That is a tough one to answer, but I think the highlights for me were the Great Wall and the Terra Cotta Army. They are both just awesome sights when you place them in the historical context. Both of them were completed before the time of Christ!”

In other travel news, Mike BENDER announced with all due modesty that, after only 37 years, he has achieved his goal of running the equivalent of around the world at the equator (24,884 miles). He said he limped across the finish line on a hike in the mountains outside of Anchorage last summer. I am deeply impressed at this extraordinary accomplishment. Not the running; anybody who aspires to live the rest of his life with arthritic knees could do that. I’m talking about the prodigious job of records-keeping. to tally, cross-reference, keep track of, preserve, and prevent the movers from losing and the dog from eating his log! (Seriously, great achievement, Mike. Well done.)

Deac HOUSTON noted (by way of the most colorful pictorial Christmas letter of the decade) that he and Renee completed their winter home in Palm Desert at Indian Ridge Country Club early last year and sold their Stafford Hills Ranch Home. They’re now putting the final touches on a penthouse condo on the river in Lake Oswego and expect to move in sometime this spring. Stand by for latest developments.

He also wrote about their trip to England and Ireland last summer: watched Tiger Woods win the British Open, traveled 17 days through the countryside, played 12 rounds of golf, helicoptered to Ireland, etc. An idyllic holiday.

Bill TELFORD says it was a quiet winter in and around Virginia, with not much

golf because of unfavorable weather. About the only social activity was the periodic ladies’ birthday luncheon in February.

Bill says the guys will hit the golf course come springtime. Although greatly honored as the current recipient and caretaker of the “Best ‘59er Hacker of the Day” trophy, he’s looking forward to the opportunity to let another deserving classmate take possession.

On the health scene (remember when we mostly talked about assignments, flying and babies?), Jimmie “Golden Throat” JAY is close to being back on combat-ready status following triple bypass surgery in February. Some guys have suggested using our ‘59er Net as an e-mail forum to share information on symptoms, treatments (those that worked and those that didn’t), and other issues of general health interest. To some, health is an intensely private matter, but there may be an opportunity for mutual support. Any thoughts?

Unfortunately, our early mentors, the ATOs, who average 6-10 years older than our group, are wearing out ahead of us. I’m sorry to report that one ofthat brotherhood, Howard “Mac” McKenzie, died of cancer last November. After a successful military career, Mac retired as a colonel in 1977 and joined the Alabama Ethics Commission. During his tenure as an investigator and later as acting director of the commission, he was involved in probes that led to the removal from office of the governor and the imprisonment of a crooked state treasurer. The Class of 1959 extends its condolences to the family ofthis fine officerwho lived and guided others on the path of integrity.

Finally, for those of you beginning to swelter in the heat of the approaching summer, a reminder that the world turns.

Thoughtfor the quarter. Never put off until tomorrow what you can forget about forever.

A.J. (Rosie) Cler, Jr.

11181 West 17th Ave. (208) Lakewood, CO 80215-2759 (303) 238-4973, FAX: 237-7625

e-Fax: (509) 463-4700

E-mail: RCtherose@aol.com

Percent members: 87

WsJock SCHWANK retired as Vice President, Services, for our Association ofGraduates on Friday, 26 Feb2001. In a retirement dinner held at Doolittle Hall and attended by 80 AOG staff and board members, dignitaries, Jock’s parents and fam-

Pictured around the table in Old Town Alexandria are Judy Jay, Anne Telford, Karen Morgan, Bonnie Jefferson, Molly Connally. Judy Lanman, Brenda Welch, Linda Johnson, and Brenda Wynn.

Braving the subzero weather at a ‘59er tailgate before the AF-Colorado State football game last November are, from left, Brock and Claire Strom, Max Miller and Trix Scott, Dick and Liisa Hilbert, and Wendy and Pete Todd.

In the back row are Jock with sons David (left) and Blake. In thefront row are David’s wife, Jill; daughterAshley, Hope, Blake’s wife, Christie; daughters Katrina (center), and Jessica Faith (right).

ily, and classmates, he was recognized for his 26 years of service to the AOG. Nice ceremony, presided over by AOG President Jim SHAW (’67), with some eloquent comments by Class President Andi BIANCUR, dinner, and entertainment from ‘‘The Academy Singers.” (See photos and story on pages 20 and 21.). From our class were Jim and MaryWADDLE, Andi BIANCUR, Rosie and Karen CLER, Ron and Connie YATES, Bill HALES and friend Sue Woodward, Barbara and Wayne KENDALL, Jim and Jeannette GLAZA, and George PUPICH. We salute you, Jock.

The MiniSki XI was held the first week of March on the powdery slopes of Utah —Park City and DeerValley—with the following in attendance: Jim and Jeannette

GLAZA, Chuck and Weezee HOLMAN, Greg BOYINGTON and June Colgan, Andi BIANCUR and Carole Kramer, Jerry DE LA CRUZ and his son Greg, Ed NOGAR, Jim O’ROURKE, Earl VAN INWEGEN, GJC FRIES, George and Diana PUPICH, A1 JOHNSON, Greg’s daughter Armand and her husband, Jeff, and June Colgan’s daughter Michelle.

After learning that John Stanley BRUSH recently had a heart attack, D.L. WALSH and I raced to the Springs January 12th for a visit to the recuperating JSB. Jack and Jeanne were back in Gaithersburg, MD visiting son Jeff when Jack suffered his attack the day after Christmas 2000. The docs performed angioplasty by inserting a tube into one blocked artery and inflating a balloon to reopen the blockage, then placed a stent into the other artery to keep both tubes open. He returned to work January 6*—Jack is President/CEO of Columbine Capital, which he formed in 1980 to provide economic forecasts and quantitative decision-making tools to market magicians, money managers, and financial advisers looks great and is probably back flying his 1975 Aerostar by the time you’re reading this. (As an interesting side note, Jackjust spent a quarter mil to give himself a better view of Pikes Peak he bought the lot next door and tore down the house setting on it, he and Jeanne are now replicating a Mayan ruin on that site. Don’t ask why.)

After returning from our reunion last October, Mike A. CLARKE had his doctor do a finger wave on him during a routine medical check and found something suspect, despite the fact that Mike’s PSA tests had always been normal. His prostate was removed, placed in a jar, and he’s been recovering nicely: “I’ve lost track of my prostate. I was hoping to have it bronzed for my mande, but, alas, some idiot sectioned it to determine some arcane things for medical science, and thereby dashed my hopes. I’m back on the golf course, and the doctor says I’m cured.” And then Charlie LIGGETT had an angiogram the 23rd of Februarywhich showed one coronary artery about 95 percent clogged, so they did an angioplasty and inserted two small stents. He’s doing fine.

Class Autobiographies. You received President Andi BIANCUR’s letter of26 Oct 2000, which included a recap of the 40th Reunion, as well as a request for the preparation of our individual biographies; also, George Thrower LESTER’s Nov 2000 letter asking each of us to prepare an autobiography, starting with the Academy. This is just a reminder to type 'em out and mail 'em in to George at 1083 North Collier Boulevard, PMB 324, Marco Island, FL 34145, (941) 393-0581.

This was just another routine travel year for Frank and Eve MAYBERRY. I’ll list only their stops, briefly, and in order: Nevada, California, Arizona, back to Australia, Cape York in northern Queensland, Cooktown (where Captain Cook repaired the Endeavour in 1770), Weipa, Iron Range National Park and Chili Beach, Restoration Island, Fruit Bat Falls, Horn Islands in the Torres Strait, Lord Howe Island (north of New South Wales), Mount Lidgebird, Ball’s Pyramid, back to CONUS on to Colorado, Florida, Texas, Kansas, Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, Florida’s Everglades and Key West that’s for 2000. Then back to Australia in early 2001.

AFA FOOTBALL 2001. A lot of fans have bemoaned our scheduling of weaker opponents for season openers, like Division I-AA’s Cal State-Northridge last year, Division II’s U. of Northern Colorado a decade ago, others like the Citadel and Villanova. We’d scheduled Southwest Texas State for this year, but who do we replace them with? OKLAHOMA! Last year’s national champions! (The Associated Press recently reported that “Sugar,” a peregrine Falcon, chases gulls and other pesky birds away from the runway at Fairchild AFB. Couldn’t we get OUR falcons unleashed at Falcon Stadium on those big Okies at our Labor Day opener? Just when they get too close to the end zone?) Fast forward to Nov 3rd for a funfilled weekend a get-together between reunions and come out for the AFAArmy game. We’ve arranged a $72/night rate at the Radisson that Thursday thru Sunday. The agenda includes a Friday evening “Personality Adjustment Time,” Jim GLAZA’s tailgate with the FalconMobile Saturday starting at 9 a.m. (with your four basic food groups: kegs, cans, bottles, and BMs), rout ofArmy, dinner at the Radisson Saturday night for ‘60 grads and families, Sunday brunch at the hotel, and afternoon social. Questions? Contact me. Then there’s the November 24th AFA game at Hawaii in Honolulu, which is an opportunity to take your wife or significant other for a vacation on any one of the beautiful Sandwich Islands. Talk about cloning. Dennis O’KEEFE’s and wife, Sandy’s, son Robin is a “dead ringer” for his old man (who resembles Sean Connery, or is it James Bond?) Robin (31) married Angie, who’s technical director for a software firm, last year on Long Island Robin has his Ph.D. from the U. of Chicago and is doing a two-year post-doctorate with the N.Y. College of Osteopathic Medicine teaching anatomy to medical students. In the photo at the top of the next column are Dennis and Sandy next to their sons Pat (28), John (33), Robin, and his bride, Angie.

POTPOURRI. Last issue’s Trivia ‘60 Question: Who was our first classmate to fly a mission in the Vietnam War? The date? Answer: Andi BIANCUR, who reported to Bien Hoa on 30 April 1963, and flew his first missions 2-4 May 1963... Bill HALES is a board member and Chair of the Public Policy Committee for the National Alzheimer’s Association... Bill and Kath GILLIS’ 37-year-old son Glen

Class of 1961 - 40th Reunion

The O’Keefes,from left: Dennis, Sandy, Pat, John, Robin andAngie. enlisted in the Air Force and reported to Basic Training in April.... Thanks to Carol and Brian KALEY for that CD ofthe “Naples Traditional Jazz Band!”... Jim GLAZA’s daughter Shari was instrumental in the capture of the “Texas Seven.” As manager of the Hungry Farmer Restaurant in the Springs, Shari spotted them, reported it to the local police, and was on TV!

I get asked a LOT of questions. Examples: Who were the other guys in my 10th Squadron during our 1st class year? Does old so-and-so have e-mail? Is “brouhaha” a member of the broccoli family, or a fruit? So, I did some serious mental knuckle-cracking and hired someone to handle these queries— Mr. Answer Guy! Send him your questions, c/o This Column, enclosing a Franklin (for the, uh, expenses). And now he’s got one for YOU. Who’s the classmate in the photo below? Hints - Cadet Activities: Baseball, 3; Previous Schooling: New Mexico Military Institute; Current Hobbies: Senior Moments. Bye from the Rose.

Reads Playboy and pops Prozac!

Earl N. “Nelson” O’Rear xv*

50582 Stonington Drive \ Jjw

Granger, IN 46530-8243

Home: (219) 273-2597

E-mail: ENOandTJO@worldnet.att.net mzmW

Class Web Site: http://www.usafa61.org/

Percent members: 83

Thanks to all who contributed to this quarter’s article. Please send me something about your lives ifyou haven’t done so for the past few articles. We particularly want to hear from some of you not on the Internet so that we can all more easily talk at our 40th Reunion in Colorado Springs September 12-16!

The registration packet will be mailed in June. If you have not already made arrangements, you can contact the hotel The Wyndham Colorado Springs (800962-6982, or 719-260-1800) at any time. (Rental car discount data is in each issue of Checkpoints.) Find lost classmates and get them to come. Let’s have everyone there.

Mark ANDERSON related that the ’61 Ski Weekend in Salt Lake City (Feb 2225), which Bob BRICKEY set up, was a great success. Most arrived Thursday and later gathered in Bob’s suite for drinks, war stories, and an “eat-in” dinner. Fridaythey skied and later regrouped in Bob’s suite for an excellent presentation on the B-2 by Bruce HINDS. Saturday was pre-Olympic skiing at Park City, followed by classy dining at a private club, and culminating with a few words from Sam HARDAGE. Sam did a great job with a tough audience. Another great ski weekend. Those attending: Mark and Ginger ANDERSON, Doc and Marty ARNOLD, Bob and Jan BRICKEY (great hosts!), Sam BARAZZONE, Stu and Mamie BOYD, Bruce and Pat HINDS, Sam and Vivian HARDAGE, Bob and Judy HERIZA, Joe HENDRICKS, Brice JONES, Jimmy and Susan POOLE, and Neal and Gwen WESTBROOK (and daughter Wendy).

John BOESCH said that after nearly 30 years working in San Francisco, they expect to be residing in Pinehurst, NC by July. Jim CASSIDY, a Marine, is hidden away in Pennsylvania. He’s alive and well, happily married to the same woman for 39 years. Gene DAVIS, of Florida election fame in Brevard County, reports that of their 219,000 voters, 0.006 percent unintentionally mismarked their ballots as overvotes and 0.06 percent unintentionally mismarked their ballots as some form of undervote. All of the properly marked ballots were counted in all 66 Florida counties. Judy and Gene plan to join Brice JONES for his World Croquet Championships in the wine country in May. Judy is still the assistant shop manager and buyer at the Brevard Museum of Art and Science. After our reunion, Gene and Judy are going to the Azores for a reunion with people that they worked with there.

Paul and Donna DEAN attended Pete and Patty LANE’s get-together of the Dallas/Fort Worth GrayTags on Feb 24th Other attendees included Phil WOODS, Tom and Bonnie WILLIAMS, Dick and Sylvia FAIRLAMB, and A1 and Skeeter

BLAISDELL as well as John KUENZEL (‘60), who became an honorary Gray Tag for the night so that he and Mimi could join them. A great time was had by all, especially after finishing off a few botties of Brice’s Sonoma Cutrer vintages, as well as every other botde in the cabinet!

Bill and Theda FOSTER are planning to have all GrayTags in the D.C. area over for dinner, drinks, and conversation at the end of March. Vic and Diane BOUQUET are also to be there. Unfortunately for the Fosters, we heard about it and also plan to attend.

Gene HOPP says that he is knee deep in dog poop, living near Seattle, WA. He is training a rare breed of dog, the Endebucher Sennenhund a Swiss Mountain Dog, smaller and with shorter hair than a Bernese although marked identically, and a handful.

Henry HOWE is still in Waco, TX, working for Raytheon Aircraft Integration Systems, after retiring from Boeing in February. Peggy is still senior (only) pastor at First Lutheran Church in downtown Waco. Jim DARNAUER, Hank’s roommate for a year at USAFA, visited them in February. Jim was at Ft. Hood on a business trip, spending the weekend in Texas.

Lowell and Sandy JONES plan a 4 1/2-month trip using their new, larger Airstream trailer to the Northwest via Sandy’s high school reunion in Iowa and his father’s 92 nd birthday in South Dakota. They plan to see Oleg and Betsy KOMARNITSKY in Seatde before heading east for our ‘61 Reunion. They will return through Branson, Nashville, and the North Carolina mountains.

Bob KELLOCK continues as Boeing’s X-40A Test Director. The X-40A is an 85 percent scale model of the X-37 space maneuvering/space return vehicle, which can fit in the Shuttle bay or be launched to orbit by an expendable booster. The X-40A will demonstrate systems and software to perform an autonomous landing. Data gathered should improve the design, testing pace, and capability of the X-37.

The March issue of The Retired OfficerMagazine contains Jerry LEFTON’s picture standing beside General Shelton. The magazine evidently tried to hide his true identity by saying he was Col. Jerry Lofton. (Terrorist threat?) Art KERR reportedly asked Jerry if he was seated when the picture was taken. Jerry said that he had considered looking for a box to stand on. General Shelton is tall. Isn’t that the right perspective, Jerry?

Charlie NEEL talked with Vic BOUQUET in March. Vic is still battling his ailments but is getting around and receiving calls. In April, Lynda and Charlie are sailing from St. Lucia to Grenada on a 50-foot sailboat with two other couples and a crew of two. They will scuba, snorkel, and generally enjoy the good life a welcome winter respite.

Hector NEGRONI wrote from Puerto Rico that he has totally retired and plans to join the Salvation Army as a corporal, or something. Pro-bono work in a VA Hospital is also a possibility. He says that he is still not old enough to play golf— don’t ask (I did) and with his poor knees can no longer play tennis.

Jimmy POOLE said that we will NOT have an October Redneck weekend this year; however, plan on a resumption in Oct 2002.

Bob SMITH was reelected in November to the local Health Care District board for the fifth time. He now has 19 years on the board. Bob enjoys his work as a travel agent, having just finished his ninth cruise.

Bill STACKHOUSE is executing the Stackhouse Bayhouse Oplan. They’re going to build on the Northern Neck of Virginia on Mill Creek. Ttoy and Nancy WILLIAMS beat them down there. Twy has a big sailboat, and Nancy who taught Twy how to sail reportedly will be happy that Bill can relieve her of deckhand duty, so she can relax. Rhoda is considering retiring at the end of the school year.

Sarah STEBBINS said that Charlie still enjoys his work, but they are talking about retiring to Charleston, WV. Sarah retired from Civil Service in 2000 after 25 years at the Naval Research Laboratory and a few at USAFA. Their lives are filled with two new Shar-pei puppies and frequent travel to visit family. One thing they love about being in the D.C. area is the chance to get together with so many classmates!

Terry STORM said that his entire family is going to Hawaii for the AFA football game two days after Thanksgiving. He recommends the Hale Koa, but you must make reservations now.

Art KERR sent the following Hawaiian news item on Teney TAKAHASHI: Teney Takahashi joined the Hawaii Community Development Authority, July 1999 after a career in the private development sector with Amfac Development Corp., Princeville Corp. and HEI Inc. Teney Takahashi is HCDA director of planning and development. Previously, Teney was senior vice president of Amfac Maui. The HCDA, created in 1976 by the legislature as a quasi-state agency to oversee redevelopment of Ka-kaako, was given broad powers, including floating bonds to pay for projects, condemning land, and developing property. By mandate, it is free to engage private developers on projects without the request-for-proposal process.

Charlie THOMAS thinks that his alma mater, Brooklyn, NY Bishop Loughlin, was the only high school in the country with a graduate in each of the first three USAFA classes. Interesting. Does anyone know of another high school that had a graduate in each of the first three (or more) classes?

Tom and Judy WILSON went to sunny Florida for a two-week break from their Minnesota winter in March. Tom saw a feature on Discovery on developing

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED.

CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

Boeing’s 777 and said that one ofthe pilots on the program was our Paul HINTON! Maybe Paul can tell us all more about the airplane in September.

Dave CARLSTROM called Roger WOODBURY one evening and suggested that Rogerjoin him for “dessert” at a local diner (near McGuire AFB, NJ). They finally yielded to the pleas of the diner’s staff and left so they could close the place. The Carlstrom family was in the early stages of a quick trip to Lajes. Dave is semiretired, and loves the opportunity to get away. Roger said that Mary Sue’s family lives in southwestern Illinois, so he and I are hoping that they can stop to see us en route during one of their trips to visit her family. Would be great!

See you at our Reunion! Make your arrangements.

John W. “Jack” Jamba

4 Judy Court

Satellite Beach, FL 32937

Home: (407) 777-5520

Office: (407) 861-3519

E-Mail: jwjamba@aol.com

Percent members: 72

Hi Redtags! It’s been almost a normal spring here in Florida. The cold fronts have been more frequent but the rainfall is dangerously sparse. Another Space Shuttle is in orbit and the International Space Station will get a new crew.

Got e-mail from Dick SCHOOF off the Redtag Net. “I am still working and just recently encouraged my wife, Joan, to retire from teaching. Retiring teachers can participate in a Retirement Opportunity Program (ROP) that pays several hundred dollars and encourages the retiree to return to ‘the scene of the crime’ in various capacities. The benefit is that it encourages senior (expensive) teachers to leave but saves on some substitute costs. Now if they had that in the Air Force it might encourage me to try and fit into that 1983 blue suit I used to wear everyday. It appears that some of our REDTAG associates are well into retiring. Are there any really good lessons learned on retirement?” Thanks for the update, Dick.

Sam DEHNE was discoursing with Gail PECK about Gail having to give up his house for airport expansion in Las Vegas. Gail said: “Taking our house is a good deal for us. We were ready to upgrade anyway and this provides that option without closing costs or realtor fees and it comes with relocation service including complete packing and moving.” I guess some people are just lucky.

Got e-mail fromWaltWICKLEIN: "Got your e-mail offthe baltherer net. Thought you might be interested in something that happened the other day. I received a package from a lady in Indiana that contained the cap and red rain cover that I threw to the heavens on graduation day. She had kept it all these years and finally went to the AOG for my address. She enclosed a nice letter stating that she worked at the academy and attended the graduation and picked up the cap as a souvenir. I have five grandsons, four of them are three years or younger. One of the three-year-olds likes tractors so I bought him an antique John Deere that I am going to restore. It’s great what we can use our grandchildren for when we want new toys.” Thanks for the interesting story about the cap on Graduation Day. Hope all your flowers bloom well as mine have this spring.

Got this e-mail from Butch VICCELLIO: “Hi, Sumo...Lots going on with the Viccellios, but that’s been the case with us for some time now. New leadership at USAA (am I included in that phrase) brings lots of financial management skill to the table, and with the company’s growth that is underway, really keeps us busy. How do you spell retirement? But we have no regrets choosing San Antonio as a place to live. Great friends after three active-duty tours here, super weather, unlimited supply of breakfast tacos, and the SPURS!! I think that Jack SWONSON’S reassignment as our main man at new operating location in Phoenix has already been noted in your column, but he is the perfect choice for the job. Since he is hiring and others are laying off, you can imagine how he sits with the Chamber of Commerce! I gave him a map last week with every golf course in Phoenix on it. Knowing him, it won’t go unused. Speaking of Swony and Redtags, we were at offsite in Tampa last week and went out to eat with Bill and Gayla KNIPP and Roberta SCHAUMBERG. Bill and Gayla just purchased their very own ReMaxx franchise...Bill is doing the agent recruiting now. If anyone is relocating to that area...Bert spends her time at the area golf courses when she is not visiting daughter Jill who lives nearby, or son Terry who lives here in San Antonio. So we get to see her once in a while. As for us, daughter Pilar is MBA student at Wharton and son Ben is trying to make it in the entertainment world in L.A. Tough league, but the kid has talent... although I have no idea where from! So the pace is no slower than on active duty, but enjoy working for the company that served me so well for nearly 40 years... and rest assured, the outfit is in good shape. I do hear occasionally from one of you whose experience wasn’t what you felt it should have been, but get positives far more often. Don’t hesitate to let me know how we’re doing... remember, we’re the owners! Enough for paid political announcements.” Thanks, Butch, for the update.

I got a late Christmas card from TK and Virginia MOORE: their older daughter Elizabeth continues her work in the Bureau ofWestern Hemisphere Affairs at the State Dept; son James is a USMC major and flies the President’s helicopters: younger daughter, Kate, is now occupying a new house with husband, Maurice and two sons. But Tom and Virginia went on the trip of a lifetime to South Africa. Four days in Cape Town followed by several days in the Mala Mala Preserve and the Kruger National Park introduced them to sights ofcheetahs, zebras, leopard,lion, elephants and many more. Tom only got 850 pictures but they were all “necessary.” Tom went with high hopes for the trip and was more than delighted with what he saw. Virginia went along to humor Tom and discovered that she really enjoyed seeing the animals in their natural settings. It was one of the most enjoyable trips they have ever taken in their 36- l/2 years together. Thanks for the newsletter, Tom. Got a late Christmas newsletter from Dick and Liz KLASS. “The millennium started off with a blast with friends on Bainbridge Island and a bang in mid-

January when Raytheon Aircraft underwent a reorganization that left Dick without a chair when the music stopped. Based on Liz’s job, Dick’s business prospects, and the location of many friends, returning to Arlington, VA. was natural. Our home is now the world headquarters for Dick’s new consulting firm, klass international network, inc (kin, inc.) and for CCA Federal Operations (if you can do it from Wichita, you don’t need a D.C. office).” They co-located both companies on the lower floor while the upstairs was under renovation. In October they made the annual trek to USAFA for the Navy game. In November, Dick got a surprise dinner for a significant birthday. (I don’t care how much Rogaine he uses it wasn’t his 50th.) Theymanaged to host a family reunion at Christmas two hours after the renovation was completed. Thanks for the update. And good luck with the new house and new business location.

And this e-mail from Bill HARVEY: “Hi, Jack. Glad to hear from you. You okay? Looks like Florida has clearly become your once-and-always home... I seldom send anything in for Checkpoints but just decided to do so briefly for some unclear reason. Mainly, I guess, it’s a chance to communicate briefly with you as it looks like getting down that way may be a long-time-a-comin’. As my parting shot at the working world I decided to go back into knock-down-drag-out clinical practice in Houston for a litde bit. Working with a life-support contractor at JSC was immensely frustrating... and I think maybe my age outran me there. The thrill was just gone.

I’m specializing, if you can fathom this, in a single infectious illness: latestage neuroborreliosis and already have an over-full practice. This is one of the really controversial ‘illnesses’ of the time, and I figured I’d never get a handle on it unless I jumped in and really started to get a feel for these patients and the related state-of-the-science as it evolves. So far, I’m beyond anything I can get from books, and I kinda like it out here ‘on the edge’. I/we are making progress, and for me, it’s good to feel part of something in the process of evolving bigtime. (I just have to cover my...[as you fliers say, “six”], since working outside limited existing medical models can get one hauled before state medical boards in a hurry. But at this late age, what’s to lose?)

‘Not being good at the military stuff, and being an aloof sort (read ‘really insecure and fearful’) at USAFA, I nevertheless finally start to see the priceless value ofhaving been there. Just some ability to thinkwith my feet on the ground, insist on evidence, and to think systematically is now paying off. I wouldn’t have had it any other way, and begin to see the gifts each ofyou gave me. Thank you. I may crash and burn on some crowded Houston freeway before I get this project complete, but at least this has been good for me. And I hope for a few others. Equally important, though, to my Red Tag brethren, I’ve finally come to see a little bit... and want to say... that it was really good to have been given the chance to be among you.” Bill, thanks for that touching tribute to the class. We feel proud that you are one of us.

And this from Randy SCHAMBERGER: “Not much new here. Don’t know if A1 JACKSON mentioned anything about it, but John FLANAGAN was here at Eglin in February. A1 got a group of Redtags together for dinner at Guiseppi’s Seafood Restaurant in Niceville. John was visiting his stepson (a USAFA grad) who is stationed at Duke Field. In addition to Al, John, his son Dick HOFFERT, and his friend Helen, Lieu and I all attended. We had a great time reminiscing and John took some pictures. You’ll have to contact him for copies. If he’s like me, it’ll be a couple of years before he gets them developed! We really missed Alfie (Al’s wife who passed away last spring). Al’s got his cup full since it’s tax time again. I’m still playing tennis full time and Lieu is sitting on the sidelines until the stock market makes up its mind where it’s going. That’s about it. Hope this helps ifyou need some space filler.” I needed the space filler. Thanks, Randy.

Got this one from Hesh ALTMAN: “Bobbi and I returned to Las Vegas just over a year ago. I opened up an office for a small defense company based inVirginia... western version ofbeltway bandits. I have about had it dealingwith DoD, though. Looking for a position as a school crossing guard or something equally as stressful. Bobbi and I have a nice house on the far west side of town. Two guest rooms if any RTBs happen through the area. If you are in the mood for luxury, my son Joel is one of the managers at the Venetian Hotel. He and wife, Heather, are expecting our first grandbaby in June. Daughter Jodi is in the process of opening her own chiropractic office on the east side of town. According to the business plan I did for her this weekend, she can start supporting me in about three years.”

Thanks for the update, Hesh.

Got this from Chuck TURNER. “We had a Dallas-Ft Worth area Redtag get-together. Jerry SMITH was good enough to organize the outing (at one of Tuck’s favorite restaurants.) From left in the photo are: Peggy and Bob KEIGHERY, Jerry

SMITH (standing), Marianne and Bob STAIB, Chuck TURNER, Freddie SMITH, and Ann and Tuck MCATEE. Most of the evening was spent swapping old war stories or talking about creaky old bones; although there was a discussion about planning for an early fall Texas and neighboring area Redtag mini-reunion. Jerry said he would put out the word.” Thanks for the info, Chuck.

John Flanagan blew into Fort Walton for a long weekend Feb 23-26.to visit his stepson, Nate SCOPAC, ‘97 in Special Ops. John knew about the open Red Tag invitation for the area results were that Ed Jackson rounded up Randy SCHAUMBERGER and Dick HOFFERT and wives/significant others for a fun evening of dinner, drinks, and the unique Red Tag stories. Frightening fact of the evening is that Lt. Scopac is flying the same airplane that Randy did the R&D on back in the ‘60s.

That’s it for now. Start planning for the 40th reunion. I’m looking forward to seeing you all there.

Go Redtags!

Norman I. Lee III

17532 N.E. 38th Court

Redmond, WA 98052

W: (425)237-6004 H: (425)882-0968

E-mail:54wrs@msn.com

Work e-mail: norman.i.lee@boeing.com

Fax: (425) 237-5775

Percent members: 77

Our Class President, Jim DIFFENDORFER, sent the following note updating the Class Cups for you to consider: “At the 35th Reunion Banquet, I spoke about passage of the class cups to a responsible person, class, AOG, or whatever. I asked for your suggestions or ideas. Here are a couple responses: Option A: Following the AOG idea of collecting old class rings, melting them and making new rings from the ingot, we (‘63) would have the cups melted into an ingot, pass the ingot on to a later class (say 2063, or...) for them to make cups for their class and then perpetuate the tradition. This option would require a later class to add metal since the classes are larger; however, our entire collection of cups would form the base for the new cups. Obviously, a procedure would need to be written; and we would have to trust a later class would follow through on the plan. I’m probably not going to be there for the class of 2063! Or, we could offer any earlier class the ‘privilege’ of continuing the tradition in memory of 1963. Option B: Track sons and daughters of ‘63 grads, find one or more who will take responsibility for the cups, use them from time-to-time in a Memorial Service to the past Class of 1963 the originators of the Class Cup tradition, ensure the cups are kept in the cabinet in the AOG building (or where they might be displayed), and track their sons and daughters to find a second (third, etc.) generation who will carry the tradition on into eternity. Any option will require a written set of guidelines, procedures, and probably money to defray costs relative to continuing the tradition. All these things are ‘do-able’. At this time, I prefer not to form a team to study and recommend; rather, I would like to hear from you for more ideas. There are many ways to pass on the tradition. However, I feel the most difficult and important issue is not the passage of the cups, it is the passage of a message, a set of values, a code to live by and to serve by. If today’s events are an accurate indicator of the path life will take in the next generations, I think some ‘old time’ philosophy of how to be a better officer, public servant, parent, or person will be needed. Or, at least, it would make us feel better for trying! Let me hear from you.” Jim can be contacted at jimdiff @foxinternet.com. It might be a great idea to make a point of inviting our children and their families to join us at the 40 th Class Reunion.

Geff MCCARTHY tells me he has a new job as of May last year. He directs all medical and surgical care for over 100,000 veterans in Veterans Administration Integrated Service Network 2, Upstate New York. They have a $145m budget that he says is shrinking daily and over 1,500 superb, highly dedicated healthcare professionals. Geff reports being impressed by the selflessness of VA people “it’s like I have come home to the USAF again.” The encouraging part of Geff’s letter is today’s VA is among the very best organized systems in the world. Let’s hope our new Administration will add some of that trilliondollar slush fund to the VA’s budget. He also adds that “...scholars compare the VA to Kaiser-Permanente, Intermountain Health Care in Salt Lake, and even to the Mayo Clinic such is the transformation. In academic medical centers, standardization of best practices results in 50-85 percent success in getting best treatments; in the VA it is above 90 percent and climbing. Geff is also working on an MBA and hopes to make it by age 60. He is still flying but that is limited to monthly trips around rural upstate New York in the club Turbo 182. He and Julie are off to Europe in a few weeks to visit three of their five children who live in Eire, UK, Italy, and most of all to see their Irish granddaughters Aine and Eibhlin. The welcome mat is out for any of us visiting the Albany area, beds and Zoomie nostalgia available!! Call 518-478-9116 or write Geff and Julie e-mail at GeffMcCarthy@Prodigy.net.

Another one of our Docs, Bob MAZET, wrote a quick note updating us on a couple of classmates: Tom DERIEG ran the annual Desert Classic Marathon on 18 Feb, which he successfully completed in good time. Bob adds that he and Tom beat each other up in the handball courts several times a week at the YMCA with occasional guest appearances by Ed REISDORF. According to Bob, Bill and Visit the AOG Web Site - Merchandise, Gone But Not Forgotten and More!

www.aog-usafa.org

The Dallas/Ft. Worth Group

MaryLinn WECKER attended the Presidential Inauguration as guests of Mr. and Mrs. Dick Cheney!

Bud Gilligan sent this photo. It is offive of our YellowTags taken at Bud’s house in mid January 2001. In case you don’t recognize the handsome fellows, they are, from left, Ed PICKENS, Dick GUILD, Doug HARDGRAVE, Fred FROSTIC, and Bud GILLIGAN. Visually, you could say it is a couple of “A” Flight types on the ends, with some “C” Flighters in the middle.

According to Bud, the occasion was a dinner party he and his lovely wife, Joyce, hosted, to welcome Doug HARDGRAVE to the Washington area. Doug moved from Fort Worth to Washington at the end of Dec 2000. (Part of the big Texas move to Washington?) He has taken a job with Booz Allen, doing DOD contract/ consulting work. Fred FROSTIC also works for Booz Allen, and rumor has it that he was a good contact for Doug. Ed PICKENS is retired (since about two years ago), and Bud says Dick GUILD is still working to make his company, Ramparts Technologies, into the next “overnight success story”.

Bud recendy took a job with the Federal Government working (again) on the Air Staffas a Rated Specialist in the Global MobilityRequirements Division (AF/XORM). The Air Force is again undergoing a severe pilot shortage and has created about two-dozen civilian positions within AF/XO for former AF pilots/Pentagon veterans. He started in mid-October of last year, and claims to be having fun. “I am impressed with the quality of the young Majors and LtCols I am working with; thoughthey haven’tyet figured out how to take me. I am so old (just achieved a big decade milestone last week) and whenever I talk about combat experiences inVietnam, I don’t get a connection because it is not something that is within their memory; most ofthese guys were born in the early ‘60s. I was overheard to say the other day 'Hell, I was flying airplanes before you were born!’ And in that particular case, I was accurate.” Well, (an editorial comment) that thing (HH-43) Bud flew out of Pleiku really didn’t fly; it just beat the earth into submission.

Bud added some other Class of 1963 news. “On 10 February, we attended a Valentines Day Dinner Dance at the Army-Navy Country Club for ‘63ers from USNA, USMA and USAFA. It was the second annual, and was started last year by some USNA types. It was ‘hosted’ this year by the USMA group and next year will be USAFA’s turn. There were about 75 folks in attendance. Golden Boys and partners that I remember as being there in addition to Ed, Fred, Doug and Dick were Harry WILSON, Dean HESS, Bob VENKUS, Jim BUTT, Gary PFEIFFER, Hank LAVENDER, Barry WALRATH (point man for our contingent), and someone else that I don’t remember. (Is that the first sign or the second sign?) By the way, the Air Force guys closed the joint.” Bud and Joyce have booked passage on the HollandAmerica Gulf of Alaska Inside Passages Tour on 6 Aug. It’s a seven-day package that is roundtrip from Vancouver, up the coast to Skagway, Juneau, and Glacier Bay. Then they are going to spend a few dayswith their daughter and husband who just moved to Portland, OR last December. I’m looking forward to having lunch with Bud and Joyce as they drive south from Vancouver enroute to Portland.

Denny KING reports his e-mail from friends and family sent in February is lost probably forever. Just in case you have experienced similar problems, here is his story: “about 1 st of Feb, I tried to make a change to my Internet server e-mail (using Oudook Express via MSN.COM rather than Hotmail via MSN.COM). Apparentiy I was able to send under a new setup but not receive. After involving a computer savvy friend and a Dell rep, I learn that Dellnet by MSN is havingproblems providing Oudook Express and I naturally assumed I fouled up the directions for making the change. No one knows why mail addressed to Bunknbop@msn.com over the last five days or so has been lost but it has been. Just in case you sent an e-mail to me or Colleen, we want you to know we are not ignoring you, we did not receive it”

Bob KENNEDY writes that Bob PARRA is a member of the Marshall Center Senior Advisory Council. “He is part of a stable of about 20 military officers (former chairman of NATO’s Mil Committee, government officials, former Dutch MOD), academics, businessmen, etc you get the idea that I bring together to test ideas on and pick their brains on the way ahead. So Bob’s in good company. He’s with Price Waterhouse and has been extremely successful. Been trying to get him to come back to one of our reunions. Maybe you can help. His e-mail is bobparra@dhaka.agni.com.”

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

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CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED.

CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

Larry MCLAUGHLIN saw the bit about Rotary Clubs by Tom FRYER. It turns out that Larry is president-elect of his club! Says he has been to nine international conventions for Rotary, and will be at the San Antonio convention.

While perusing the local Seattle newspaper back in February, I read about State Senator Linda Evans Parlette, Republican fromWenatchee (12th District). Well, what was the chance Linda was the wife of our own Bob PARLETTE? To find out, I wrote an e-mail to Linda via the Washington Government e-mail address and sure as shootin’ she is! Linda wrote back saying that she is actually a graduate ofthe class of 1963 high school that is! So that makes me an old ‘Chelan Goat!’ A great high school mascot!” That’s terrific what an honor to be in the State Senate! I wonder how many other of our lovely ladies are Senators or Representatives?

That’s it. We have been using up more than our fair share ofthe space in Checkpoints these past few times so best stop here, but not without one final note. On Feb 28th the earth around Seattle and Puget Sound really moved! It will be a day to remember as many ofyou surely heard, we had a 6.8 earthquake here that literally shook all of us up. The good news is that almost everyone I know had no significant damage at home but the story was different for many of us at work. Frankly, I was down under my desk watching files, folders, notebooks, airplane models, computer monitors and what all flying offtables and out of shelves. The place was a mess. Our tech reference library shelves —10 shelves high all fell over dumping everything. Boeing Field, where all our test airplanes are located was rendered nearly unusable with a huge crack in the runway. When I called Diff to ask how he had survived, his office was closed and the group relocated. Their sprinkler system let go! Thing about it, DifFs office is in one of the newest buildings at Boeing built in the mid ‘90s.

Bob Hovde 206 Walker Ave. Huntsville, AL 35801

H (AL): (256) 532-3923/H (TX): (254) 759-0688

O (TX): (254) 867-7092/ Fax: (254) 867-4137 bhovde@sofia.waco.usra.edu or bandshovde@earthlink net

Percent Members: 73

Guest Scribe: Jon PRENEZ maintains contact for the ‘64 19th Squadron “Playboys” through a newsletter, the “64-19SQ COMM.” The following is a slightly shortened version of his missive:

‘Harvey and Sheila MANEKOFSKY are proud grandparents of Max, born on 6 June 2000. Since Judy and I are still waiting for our kids to give us grandkids to spoil, Harv and Sheila have volunteered Max to us for spoiling purposes! Harvey and Sheila, congrats! By the way, one of my rich friends just gave his first grandson a pedal-powered BMW for his second birthday. Match that, Grandpa!

‘Mart and Maryanne BUSHNELL’s daughter has started college at Regis in Denver. I understand that all the young men and women there have to wear suits, shirts, and ties of the same iridescent colors, and every quiz has as its last multiple choice: "Is that your final answer?” Sorry. In my dotage, I just couldn’t resist it.

‘Heard from Ron (Tevye) GROWDEN a while back. Seems he’s toying with the idea of doing some professional acting. (Did I get that right, Ron?) Go for it!! It would be nice to know someone famous, especially a Hollywood or Broadway type that could hold wild parties and have women running around with really old, paunchy Playboys in passionate pursuit. Please, Ron, please.

“I guess Jeff GORDON is the only one of our number (19th Sq) that remains unaccounted for. Any further ideas out there on how we can go about doing a search for him?

‘Keith and Patti LUCHTEL had another grandchild in March 2000. Young Ben is their third. I won’t even reiterate how jealous Judy and I are of you grandmas and grandpas out there; however, our not having any yet must mean that we’re the youngest of the group. Right? Though Keith and Patti didn’t mention it in their note, I take it that they’re using their airmobile regularlyenough to be griping about the cost ofavgas! Ron GROWDEN - call Keith’s daughter Kristina in San Diego. She recently appeared in an independendy-made movie, and might be able to open some producers’ doors for you; however, I don’t even want to hear about any activities you might pursue on a casting room couch not a pretty picture.

"The more-eastern contingents of the Playboys seem to be more adept at getting together than us western types. Jim and Betty SEARS and Frank BARTLETT visited Keith and Patti this past summer and had a great time. I keep telling you guys—we live in a place that’s as close to a resort as we could find the guest bedroom is always open and the wine is always chilled. Just do it!

‘Got an email from Rich BEDARF back a few months. I’m assuming that by now he has finished building his new house and is enjoying retirement. He says that he plans to make the next reunion, wherever and whenever. Right, Rich? We’re going to hold you to it!

"Trips taken: Keith and Patti LUCHTEL went to the French Riviera, and Keith spent most of his time at the nude beaches, hopefully just as an observer! Brett and Terri DULA went to the Med and the Aegean area for an “Ancient Empires Trek” including Istanbul, Rome, and Athens. Brett gives four stars to a trip to that area for interest and economy (especially Turkey, where the dollar still goes a longway). Judy and I were in Munich for the Oktoberfest in late September. Then we went on a cruise down the Rhine and up the Moselle through the German wine country. Finished the trip with stops in Paris and London, before flying home in true United cattle-car fashion. Economy sucks! The trip was great, but next time, I think I’ll swim over.

‘Jim GRAHAM has been in contact with a 19th Sq cadet, discussing the Bunny in the tiles ofthe old Air Power Room in the NW corner of our old Squadron area. I’m glad we have contact with some of the kids back at the Zoo, and that they appear interested in the history of the Squadron, its people (like us), its traditions, patches, etc. Maybe there is such a thing as continuity. One of the things we noticed when we toured the Squadron area at #35 was a mural on the wall,

with a teeny, tiny Playboy bunny shown as a reflection in a helmet visor. Evidently, they have to do things like that to avoid the BS of copyright, etc. Anyway, it was good to see that some traditions hang on, even in a semi-clandestine manner. The cadet that Jim corresponds with also wears on his flight suit one of the mini-patches we sent out to everybody last year.

“I sent Charlie HOLDER a picture of our group of 12 attendees at #35, and he says that he recognizes me and Ron GROWDEN, but wondered who the rest of the old guys were that we had teamed up with? He made some disparaging comment about Mart looking 60 when we were at USAFA. All I can say to Charlie is: You better not have a paunch or any gray hairs or any wrinkles when we see you at the next get-together (which he promises to make. Right, Charlie?), or you’re going to take some serious heat!

‘EvenJD has gray hairs, but he doesn’t make fun ofthe rest of us. Mike ROBBINS is now in Ankara, Turkey. Gary GAGNONG, how goes the snake-infested kayaking?? How can you work for Charlie Stebbins? I remember him as a real hard-ass when I was a doolie. Maybe he’s mellowed?

“That’s about it for the latest version of the Playboy Papers. Here’s hoping this one finds everyone in good health, with lots of loving family around, and a burning desire to get to whatever group activities we can come up with in the near future. As Ron BLISS once said, ‘Ours will always be a special gathering ofunique men.’ And as I get older and more reflective, I realize that all of you guys, even though I only see you infrequently, are some of my closest and dearest friends. A toast to the host of men we boast...” So sayeth Jon.

Traveling: Matt FEIERTAG e-mailed about a recent trip to Colorado: "I was just looking at the latest Checkpoints, and decided that I would sit down and update you on recent happenings before everything was stale.’’ [See there, folks. Someone is thinking of your poor old scribe!] Matt continues, “I recently spent a week visiting my son David, who is a chemical engineer in Denver. I had the opportunity to spend a wonderful afternoon with Jim and Barb HERMANSON and brought back two pictures. I also spent a few hours at USAFA and was there to watch the noon meal formation march to Mitchell Hall. I still get a thrill!

We hired a taxi to take us from Aswan to Luxor and stopped off at Edfu along the Nile. When we came across this falcon, well, we just had to take a picture. Here it is. After Egypt the “kids” backpacked through Asia for three months. Their journals are fun reading. All’s well.” Thanks Bruce and Gail for staying in touch.

Bruce, Gail, and Nilefalcon.

Status report on Hank BONDARUK, Jr: (Jan 19) “The last status letter I wrote was in October. Time for an update. I hope you all had a Merry and Blessed Christmas and are having a Happy NewYear and new millennium! It’s been nine months since my condition was discovered. It may sound repetitious, but it’s sincere. My family and I continue to be humbled by the outpouring of love and prayers. Thank you and God bless you all for it. You can be assured, it makes a difference. My MRI this month three months after treatment stopped revealed “no change” good news to my oncologist. Now we continue with further periodic testing and monitoring (and praying).

‘My application for retirement was approved by Ford and made effective November 1st. It’s with very mixed feelings that I leave Ford. So many good people, so many good memories. As with the people Tillie and I have known and cherished from our Air Force career, our Ford family will be with us in our hearts and minds forever. God bless you all as we have been blessed. Keep us in your prayers as you are in ours. Hank & Tillie.” Thanks Hank and you know we are all pulling for you.

As you know, Steve DINGMAN passed on from cancer on Dec 3rd, 2000. Here’s a letter I got from Steve, dated 19 Sept 00: “...thank you for sharing my need through AOG mail. I have heard from scores of classmates some close friends, some acquaintances, and some that I never really got to know but share their kinship of four challenging years at USAFA. Their kindness to a classmate fighting a battle with the diagnosis of terminal liver cancer is a real encouragement. The team of surgical/medical oncologists told us they could not operate, radiate, nor use chemotherapy on me due to the nature of my tumors. I went quickly downhill shortly after the diagnosis for about a week and a half. Then one morning the Lord woke me up with an appetite and extra strength. Since that time I have gained 7-8 pounds, and more strength and stamina. I walk a mile each day and am blessed to live in New Mexico so I can get some sunshine everyday...” Goodbye and thank you, Steve, for reminding us that: “We get by with a little help from our friends.”

What A Fabulous Career Dept:

MUCH better on the eyes!

“As part of the Class History project that Bill DICKEY, Usto SCHULTZ and I are working on, I have received a copy of the ’64 e-mail addresses that the AOG has. I will be sending out a test e-mail within the next month. Please [everyone] tell our classmates that if they have not received an e-mail from me, it is because the address that the AOG has is not current, or they do not have one, and they should send me an e-mail ASAP, so that I can add them to the address list. Also, please remind them that every time they change e-mail addresses, they need to let me (and the AOG) know about it. [Ed. Note: You have to change the e-mail address in the AOG blind e-mail system separately.]

‘On a personal note, I am being downsized. My company is going to outsource most of the legal work, and our jobs will end 6/30.1 have decided this is the time to pick up and find a job I can enjoy, so I am going to try to put my administrative, personnel, and aviation operations experience together and find an administration-type job with an airport or some other type of aviation-related industry. If anyone knows of anything out there, please let me know,” Matt.

The End: That’s what we professional writers call it when we can’t think of anything more to write. Keep those electrons moving!

Rick Zurbrugg

Box 22615

Hilton Head Island, SC 29925

(843) 689-5321

FAX: (843) 689-5403

E-mail: ezurb@mindspring.com

Percent members: 73

Hello ‘65!

Let’s open up with seasoned travelers Bruce and Gail GROSSETTA: “...lastyear, Gail and I, plus daughter and son-in-law did a do-it-yourself 10 days in Egypt.

Retirement and Farewell Ceremony for USAFA Superintendent Lt Gen Tad J. Oelstrom, with, from left, Mike Short, Fred Boli, Tad Oelstrom, Tom Owens, and Lionel Luxich. Picture courtesy Mrs. Mamie M. Burke, OCJCS via Tom Owens California Dreaming: Your humble scribe had the good fortune to visit daughter and her men in San Francisco last month, but what great fun to go out once again and have some dinner with classmates, Warren LANGLEY and my ol’ 21st Squadron buddy Ronald Rocco Joseph AICALE, who invited us to his gorgeous home in Orinda. Roc and Patty’s son Vincent has the dazzling charm of both of his parents and is an emerging high school golf star.

A picture is worth a thousand words; my allotment is up. Hey Bruce WOOD, when do we have that Southeastern golf outing? I apologize to anyone whose communication has not been included in this column. Scribe struggling with two computers but please stay connected. Be well, do good work, and keep in touch! Rick

Ryan Denny

1635 Mary Todd Lane

O’Fallon, IL 62269

Home: (618) 624-4255

Work: (314) 232-4180

E-mail: ryanden@aol.com

Percent members: 73

Greetings, Redtags! I was talking the other day to a civilian friend of mine, whose son is a 3rd Classman at USAFA. He said that his son was doing fine, made it through the first year and a half, but was suffering through that long period of time between Christmas and May. My civilian friend said that they even had a name for that long, boring time they called it the “Dark Ages.” It looks like there are a few things left unchanged at the old place.

I guess that most of you must have been hibernating in your own Dark Ages during the last few months, because the news has been pretty sparse. I did get email from a young man out in California who had just bought a 1965 Corvette and wondered if I knew who it had belonged to. His assumption was that most of the Corvettes made during the late ‘60s had been sold to USAFA cadets and this one must have belonged to one of us. I told him that Chevrolet had also made my little red Corvair, but he wasn’t interested.

Mike BLAIR is still living the wilderness life in Anchorage, and gets up to his little cabin on the Kenai as often as he can. His wife, Judy, sends regular reports on the depth of the snow, the brightness of the stars, and the all the news about Arctic animals that I used to have to get from the Discovery channel. After a week of Program Management Reviews, the life in Alaska sounds pretty inviting.

Bruce TORO is enjoying a little warmer life in Orange CA, where he is the seniorVP of an engineering firm and responsible for all oftheir highway and bridge work in the western part ofthe United States. Bruce says that, while the rest of us were freezing on New Year’s Eve, he played golf in sunny California but even year-round golf hasn’t improved his score.

The “usual suspects” in Colorado are busy organizing our 35th Reunion. Everyone should have gotten two or three notices, announcements, and letters begging for money by now. It’s going to be 26 - 30 September, and the reunion committee is planning another great event for all of us. They have a couple of great ideas for a Class of‘66 gift, so dig into your rich, retired pockets and donate some money for the cause. I hope they get some better quality golf shirts this time. The last ones I got shrunk three sizes just hanging in my closet.

Class of 1966 - 35th Reunion

USAFA

I’ll close on a sad note. The AOG just sent me notification that Bob EVANS died last year of cancer. If the date was correct, it happened in February 2000; so the notice was delayed. I remember Bob from his days in 17th Squadron, down the hall from us on the sixth floor. He spent most of his Air Force career in the Intelligence business and was working for Lockheed in theWashington, DC area when he died. We’ll remember Bob and the rest of our departed classmates (40 in all) at the reunion in September.

I’ve got one more article to write before the reunion; so don’t wait until then to give us an update on what you’re doing. Send me a card or e-mail, or I’ll have to start making up stories about you again. Until next time.. .Happy Landings!

Larry Wilson

13100 Pinehurst Ave. NE

Albuquerque, NM 87111

Home: (505) 291-8949

Work: (505) 816-2092/DSN: 246-2404

E-mail: Lwilsn628@aol.com

Percent members: 66

Greetings folks, and Happy Springtime. As I compose this, there is snow blowing in Albuquerque, even as the buds are showing on the bushes. And from conversation with the parents of a current doolie this is considered the “Dark Days” or some such thing at the AFA—NOT the Dark Ages, as in our era, which must have had some P un-C meaning. Anyhow, it apparently precedes a threeday Hell Week (yes, I know—WHIT and these weenies do not). And it includes a variety of spirit and camaraderie inspiring activities, all of which sound pretty lame to me. Ah well. Kids these days. Enough ofthat: I have input from a number of folks, from a variety of quadrants. So aawaaaayyyy we go!

First, I had a couple of contacts from Ray LEOPOLD, still working for Motorola and living in Phoenix but who had recently wisely purchased a getaway in the Northern Tier: “We signed a contract for a second home in Montana we’re at the northern edge of Kalispell, about halfway to Whitefish. We plan to use it as a respite from the Arizona summers, and as a winter playground at Christmas time. I was surprised to learn that the Big Mountain at Whitefish is second to Vail in ski area... I’m finding it hard to believe that a kid who grew up in the city of Chicago is about to own a barn, a corral, a small tractor, and four acres in alfalfa! (There’s a house, too.)” Poor Ray he had first tried to find suitable property in North Dakota, but the primo ski areas there are soooo crowded and overpriced that he was forced to settle for what he could get in Montana where men are men and sheep run fast.

From Tom KIRWIN some info that is a bit dated (due to my having misfiled it) but is still good stuff. He spent some time in Denver a while back and his wife, Sherry, spent a few days in Estes Park a first for Tom, who admits to having “...never made it past the bars in Denver and Boulder as a cadet...” While in Denver they had seen Walt and Linda VISINSKY Walt was at that time recovering from neck surgery. Tom was working for Bank of America and his wife for JusticeLink. In his spare time, Tom is a student in the Master of Liberal Arts program at Southern Methodist University

And another delayed input, from Michael THOMPSON: "Life is exciting! On a rain-chilled, gusty and cumuliform dark day, Debbie and I were sailing near our home on south Puget Sound. To our amazement, a six-foot bald eagle emerged from a cloud, and using our mast as a locus, spiraled to within 25 feet ofthe masthead! We were thrilled as our youngest, Donielle, along with three other UCLA freshmen, one junior and two seniors, won the NCAA Division 1 National Championships in Women’s Gymnastics! Then off to NYC where we watched son Brandon graduate from NYU/Tisch on the stage of Carnegie Hall! The last two commencement speakers: Alec Baldwin and Billy Crystal! Visited with AFA roommate Mike PULASKI. He lives in New Orleans and is the founding partner of a group of 50 lawyers who represent Ford and Hyundai. His hobbies include flying his Ferrari to European races and captaining his motor yacht in the Gulf! Tough life!”

Mike and Tom (and to any others of you whose letters or messages I may have lost) thanks for your info, and I apologize for the delay in getting it to print.

We have a “featured classmate” (sort of) this month one of our number who long ago determined to travel to a different drummer. Following our tour of arduous duty on BCT in the summer of ‘66 he and I hopped into my Corvette and traveled together on a mini-Route 66 adventure. Later in our first class year he opted out and perhaps like many of you I had not heard of him since. Then out of the blue (or whatever color electrons are considered to be) came communication from Warren Smith (whom some of you may have known, as I did, as ‘Buddy” or even another unmentioned nickname see below...). Here is his fascinating update (merged from two messages): “As you may remember, I left shortly before graduation after expressing some doubts about Vietnam. Actually, what got me in trouble was expressing in our counterinsurgency warfare class the opinion that it might be a good idea to try to understand the complaints of the insurgents. No doubt, that’s not all there was to it; I was also disappointed at my uninteresting USAF assignment (OSI). Like you all I spent four years there trying not to get kicked out and had no intention of quitting until I actually did... I always thought I’d reestablish contact somehow but it never happened until George (Van WAGENEN) turned me up.

‘Needless to say, my life took a considerably different course (from most of yours) after I left USAFA and the USAF. For one thing, until I recently took up soaring I’d never satisfied the flying dream. After USAFA I went to Aspen and then San Francisco where I was married for awhile (now I’m single). I went to Europe and North Africa and ended up in Amsterdam. From there by bus to Afghanistan for $90, and then on to Nepal where I lived for 10 years (1971-82) and helped build Shangboche airstrip for the Hotel Everest View at 12,300' near the base of Everest. I was the first flight-in-charge there and have many stories of rides in the Pilatus Porter around Everest. I also made a relief map of the Everest region for the hotel.

Warren andAnn Tonkin Langley and theZ’s at Garibaldi’s. (Thanks Warren and Ann for the pleasure ofyour company.)

Former wing handball doubles champions (RoccoAicale, scribe, and babes, Patty andJo) on Roc’s balcony overlooking the Orinda Hills. (Thanks Rocfor your gracious hospitality.)

In 1985 I was contracted by the Nepal National Planning Commission to construct a relief map of Nepal (7’x 21') for an exhibition accompanying the coronation of King Birendra. I later worked as a building contractor for UNDP/FAO, with a crew of Sherpa carpenters, building warden’s quarters, guards quarters and a tourist lodge at Rara National Park (10,000'), two tourist lodges at Langtang National Park (12,700') and an agricultural research station at Jumla, Karnali. In 1982 I studied Chinese at the University of Inner Mongolia and then traveled to Tibet. From 1983-84,1 studied Tibetan history and politics at Dharamsala, India. I returned to the U.S. in 1985 and received a Masters (1989) and PhD (1995) in international relations from the Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy, Tufts University. In 1996 my dissertation was published by Westview Press as “Tibetan Nation: A History ofTibetan Nationalism and Sino-Tibetan Relations.” I currendy work with the Tibetan Service of Radio Free Asia.

“I got involved in the Tibetan political issue while in Nepal. I’ve been to Tibet four times (last time in November) and studied Tibetan politics in Dharamsala, India. I went back to school specifically to pursue the Tibetan political issue. Now I work with 33 Tibetans in D.C. broadcasting anti-Chinese propaganda into Tibet, courtesy ofyou and the other American taxpayers (most ofwhom would probably be at least surprised and perhaps appalled to know about it). Radio Free Asia is created and funded by Congress but set up outside the government as a NGO, like Radio Free Europe. So, my job is to conduct psychological warfare against China about Tibet. Actually, we’re supposed to do onlyobjective news, but even objective news about Tibet is offensive to China. I love my job and I suppose I’m satisfied with the turn my life took when I left USAFA. Still, I’ve always wondered what it was like for those of you who went on in USAF careers, or in whatever you did. Anybodywho’d like to reply, please do. I’m Warren now, not Buddy, and definitely not “Wedge” (that nickname was the bane of my existence at USAFA).”

For those of you who are so inclined, the e-mail address is smithw@rfa.org. Warren/Buddy/whatever thanks for catching us up.

In January my wife and I had occasion to travel to Portland, OR to attend to some unpleasant family matters. Hoping to inject some fun into the trip, I made contact with Lex PAGE, my old OSI etc. buddy, who lives there (again). Smartest thing I’ve done in a long time. We had a thoroughly enjoyable time playing, dining very well, getting soaked in the Oregon winter, touring Oregon vineyards and sampling their products, and generally catching up. I don’t know that we ever finally agreed on whose was the more egregious OSI career or on many other things that had not changed too much.... But I think we agreed it was a grand time. And we hope to play together again. Maybe next time we’ll even remember to take a photo to memorialize the event and to display to you all how we haven’t changed a bit.

Time for me to wrap this up, so I can get it to the AOG on time (for a change!). Please keep those cards, letters, and e-mails coming in. Contact the web site at www.aog-usafa.org/1967/ and/ or Victoria LENNE at digidezl@home.com. Happy trails to you all.

Tim Davidson

9712 Hidden Valley Road

Vienna, VA 22181-6094

(703) 255-5313/Work: (301) 299-1610

Fax: (703) 255-5377

E-mail: timd@erols.com

Percent members: 66

HELLO‘68! And, HELLO‘01! Ahearty congratulations to USAFA’s 43rd graduating class from USAFA’s legendary 10th class! Live long, prosper, and don’t forget to keep the noise down as your elders catch a few catnaps between reruns of the History Channel and “Survivor.”

CONVENTIONS R US DEPT: I received a nice note from Charlie COOLIDGE (vice commander ofAir Materiel Command) who passed on a Kodak moment of some of our gang found loitering around an Air Force photographer at the Airlift TankerAssociation National Convention last November. Ed EBERHART and Tony ROBERTSON were headliners as keynote speakers of the event. Thanks for your note and photo, Charlie.

YEAR-END HOLIDAY “BREAKING NEWS” DEPT: As a result of your faithful holiday correspondence, Lisa and I received a bountiful harvest of greetings and well wishes to begin the New Year. Thanks, classmates and spouses; we really appreciate hearing from you.

Headlines from Centerville, VA showed that our very own John LONGENECKER marched down the aisle on 1 Dec with a special lady named Joyce. Congratulations, J & J! My favorite “non-pictured” classmate, Fred GROSS, sent a card with his name on it so I know he is alive. As to what he is actually doing, I am assum

ing a little golf and a lot of work but, without receiving an actual update, that is just a guess. OK, Fred, how ‘bout a little news!

Tom and Lindy MCDANIEL reported a good 2000 with two principal highlights the birth of granddaughter Sarah Jordan and the graduation of son Michael from VMI last May. Michael now has a job with British Aerospace in the Washington, DC area. Tom noted that he made an unsuccessful bid for City Council of Williamsburg, VA, but learned quite a bit about himself and the “town folk.” Better luck next time, Tom.

I received a short e-mail from Cecille Castro, who wrote that she is still in San Jose, CA. She is working at the Westin Hotel in Santa Clara, CA and her son FJ, and her youngest daughter are also living with her. She said to give her best regards to the Class of ’68 for the season.

Thanks go out to Bill WOOD, again, this year for sending me copies of classmates’ annual newsletters. At their abode, Katie and he remain “energy challenged” between hours at work and sizable driving distances. Bill was the Capture Manager for a Raytheon project during the year, while Katie served as an information systems trainer for “computer-illiterate” Citicorp employees. A highlight for 2000 was a 30th Anniversary honeymoon to Ireland and England at the end of the summer. News of their kids show Dennis in his sophomore year at CU Boulder in Information Systems; Aimee in Minneapolis with four roommates and working as a senior analyst involved in “due diligence;” Rob and Jill inWhidby Island, WA where Rob is an Electronic Warfare Officer at the Replacement Air Group; and Will and Lisa in Highlands Ranch, CO where Will is a captain on Continental Express and Lisa is with Aetna.

Memories ofRuss Voris —A Classmate, Friend, and Patriot.

I received a very special letter from Mike CRYER, who took the time to pen a tribute to Russ VORIS after finding a picture of his dear friend amongst some photos of days gone by. As many of you are aware, Russ was killed in his OV-10 on a combat mission in Southeast Asia. The title of Mike’s piece is “Russ Wasn’t My Friend, He Was My Brother” and demonstrates Mike’s free expression of affection and respect for a classmate whose bond from our time together at USAFA still resonates today as a vibrant and living force within him. Mike’s thoughts on paper reflect the very essence of our own mortality and articulate a virtual circle of existence. Regardless of our ultimate stations in life, we are all connected. God bless us, everyone.

Mike also sent a short note with a bunch of happy photos of family and grandchildren. I chose this one to represent a life event for one of our own at St. Andrews Golf Course. Happy trails, Mike; and thank you for taking the time to remember.

Courtesy of Bill WOOD, Bill and Dee Ann MAYWHORT write of a year filled with many momentous occasions. For starters, Dee Ann went on an eight-day, “girls-only” Christmas shopping trip to Austria and Germany. Bill writes that Dee Ann’s plans for 2001 include a trip to Ireland, but this time boys can come, too. Bill and Dee Ann are building a log cabin near Twin Lakes, CO (about 125 miles west of Denver at 9,600 feet altitude). The effort should be finished sometime during the early summer of 2001. While working with the National Lawyers Association, Bill managed to run into fellow-member Ken Starr at a meeting in Kansas City last August. Their daughter Andrea moved from L.A. to San Francisco and is working for “User Interface” a Dot Com company. Their son Blair remains in L.A. at International Creative Management where he is a video librarian with aspirations of screen writing.

Brooke and Cathy BAILEY checked in with news from Wilmington, NC. Their beautiful daughter Liz was married to Brent Bundon (a Victoria, British Colum-

‘68ers at the Airlift TankerAssociation National Convention. From left are Stu Thompson, TonyRoberston, CarlMcPherson, BobbyFloyd,JayBarnes, EdEberhart, and Charlie Coolidge.

‘68er conquers St. Andrews—Mike Cryer with golfclub.

bia native) last October. The wedding and reception were held at chez Bailey in the freshly landscaped back yard. Bob and Thuy JOHNSTON and I had the opportunity to serve as witnesses to the event and had a wonderful time. Brooke is still flying as captain for United Airlines on the Airbus 320 out of NewYork. While Brooke slips the surly bonds of earth, Cathy stays quite busy with her Doncaster clothing line and held nine shows last year with her sister, Barbara.

"Thanksgiving Reunion at the University of Wisconsin" or “Jen Parker and Stephen Vihel Flanking Two Old Guys. From left are Jen andJim Parker and Richard and Stephen Vihel.

My second semester Doolie roommate, Jim PARKER, sent a photo ofthe ParkerVihel reunion at the University of Wisconsin in Madison (UWM). You may remember that Jim discovered his daughter Jen and Richard’s son Stephen were both attending UWM from the article printed on Richard in the class column. As a result, Jim contacted Richard and they had their first reunion since 1968 over the Thanksgiving holiday.

Jim retired from the FBI in 1998 and currently works in a variety ofjobs: doing background investigations for the FBI; as a guard for the U.S. Marshal’s Service; as a substitute middle school teacher; and as a referee for high school and youth sports. His main conveyance around town is a Harley-Davidson Sportster 1200 to “help him weather his mid-life crisis." Jim’s wife, Janice, is an RN at the UWM Hospital. She works in the oncology and hematology unit. Jim’s oldest daughter, Anne, graduated from UWM in 1999 and is currently living in the L.A. suburbs.

‘68 SPOTLIGHT

Mike and Charlene Burgamy at the USAFA Academy Club.

The ’68 Spodight for the Spring 2001 column falls on Mike BURGAMY. Armed with a BS in engineering management from USAFA, Mike spent his four years in the Air Force at HQ Aerospace Defense Command as a computer systems analyst. He then had a range ofwork experiences as a real estate broker from 1972 to 1974; the chief financial officer of Star Aviation Corporation in Denver from 1974 to 1976; the president ofCGS Distributing, Inc. in Denver, which dealtwith wholesale distribution of lawn and garden supplies, from 1976 to 1994; the president of Perky-Pet Products Company in Denver, which manufactures bird feeders and related supplies, from 1991 to 1998; and, finally, president of Colibri Holding Corporation in Denver, which is a holding corporation for outdoor living companies Perky Pet Products Company of Denver, CO; California Plastic Products, Inc. ofTustin, CA; and Yule-Hyde Associates, Inc. ofToronto, Canada. Mike also has a number of non-vocational activities including: board member ofFresh Start, Inc.; president, Board of Trustees for the Stanley British Primary School; director, Colorado Business Bank N.A.; director, CoBiz, Inc.; and member, Bard Center for Entrepreneurship Development.

When asked what the Academy meant to him, Mike responded, “The Academy was the defining period in my life. The friendships that resulted from enduring bonds formed during the Academyyears are still the relationships I treasure most today. The downside to deep friendships are losses of friends like Ted HALLENBECK, Marty EGGERT, and John WATKINS in the prime of their lives.”

When asked about life lessons to pass along, Mike said, “Never give up the quest for knowledge or the desire to make our world a better place. Success in life, for me, has been persistence and recognizing opportunities. Having the confidence to act once opportunities are evident has been the success formula for me. Most important is to recognize there are always more valuable lessons to be learned from failure than success.”

Mike and Charlene are planning to build a retirement home in the Virgin Islands and have invited all to come on down for a future reunion. Thanks for sharing your life and vision, Mike.

THAT’S A WRAP DEPT: Mind the flak, keep 'em flying, and keep those cards, letters, and photos coming in. Ciao for now. Tim

Lindsey Parris

616 King’s Cloister Circle Alexandria, VA 22302

Home: (703) 914-5608

E-mail: 102177.1033@compuserve.com

Percent members: 66

Summer’s greetings to all. And, my Brothers, may your stock portfolios be on the mend.

Continuing to grow old? Are most ofyour “dates” with ladies in the 50-year-old age bracket (an observation Jon BEAR offered recently after a POAC workout, noting the disdain we collectively held, only yesterday it seems, for those who dated ladies over 35)? If so, then consider yourselflucky. And, please know that Dave YOST, Chairman and CEO of AmeriSource Health Corporation, is still in your corner. His smiling face inside the latest annual report announces condnued successes and growth along with continued accretion of shareholder value. If you buy from Chain Drugstores, Medicap Pharmacies, Pathmark, Brookshire Brothers, or AmeriSource’s own Independent Community Pharmacies, then you might consider buying a piece of the company.

Even after all the years that have passed since his death, Ron BOND continues to touch the lives of people in his hometown of Haddonfield, N. J. In February, the high school renamed its wrestling room in Ron’s honor, complete with his rank, as the accompanying picture proclaims. Gone, but indeed not forgotten.

The Captain Ronald L. Bond Wrestling Room at Haddonfield High, New Jersey. Missing your ’69 Polaris? As announced here before, we are trying to make it possible for those of you who have misplaced your yearbook permanently to acquire a replacement. Les DYER, who recently reunited Skip DALY with a vintage Polaris (compliments of Joe BOYLES, ’70), is the keeper of the list, so contact him (habu@mindspring.com) with requests and names of potential donors/ sellers ifyou need help. (‘69 Class thanks to Joe!)

Dan THOMAS just celebrated the 20th anniversary of founding his company, FOCUS. Congratulations to Dan for his seminal work in helping corporate leaders develop effective business and corporate strategies. Dan and Jeannie continue to thrive, and when not running FOCUS, anchor the San Francisco Bay area against the overindulgences of dot.com-unism.

It is always a pleasure to hear from ‘69ers from whom I haven’t heard in a while, so it was good to receive an e-mail from A1 HUNT, who has been “stuck” in California since graduation and in Santa Barbara since 1975. He worked with a defenseoriented think tank for many years, and in 1993 started his own company doing research and analysis in the area of security and law enforcement, with a largely public-sector client base. He and his company are developing a wideband radar for use in detecting weapons concealed on individuals at distances ofup to 20 feet (with the National Institute of Justice as client) or, in a different configuration, constructing a stylized, detailed picture of a building’s insides (with SWAT teams everywhere as potential users). A1 and Kathy have a daughter studying bioengineering at UC San Diego and a son getting ready to go to college and study physics. More empty nesting. A1 keeps in touch with Joe HASEK and Roger BAILEY. Joe is in Mississippi, where he practices medicine and writes. Roger is still “lost” in New Jersey, which he has used as a home base while he works in Dallas, Austin, McLean and tries to figure out how to affect a return to California. Most of Roger’s recent experience has been in the operations side of the systems integration business with telecommunications being an important element of his focus. A1 was musing about the whereabouts of Bob VARNER anyone have a clue?

In the news again, and continuing to improve mission safety for our men and women on the tip of the sword, is Charlie WEINERT, whose “Head Up Display and Vision System” has been granted Patent 6163309 by the U.S. Patent Office. Part of the text: “... will specifically bring the mission-critical cues to the operator in an effective manner and permit open delivery of the critical mission data, human factors design, integration, and open systems architecture necessary to effectivelyimprove every operator’s knowledge of current threats to mission suecess, safety, and survivability, and allow operators to more effectively complete critical navigation and other operational goals in the most difficult operational conditions.” Kudos, Charlie.

Jerry BALL reports that Dick “Discus” DOYLE had escaped temporarily from his hardship teaching job at the Naval Postgraduate School in Monterey to deliver lectures at the NationalAcademyofStrategy and Political Studies in Santiago, Chile. With no English-speaking news channels, he was media-hype deprived at election time, but he compensated for it with trips to the coast, the Andes, and to a government-owned facility that manufactures aircraft parts. Dick says the food is excellent and inexpensive, the metro clean, fast, and cheap, and the noise and traffic generated by Santiago’s four million inhabitants forbidding. The Andes, of course, are espectacular.

Ron LOVE surprised me with a copied edition of our graduation Checkpoints, featuring Lt. Gen. Moorman and John MARTIN on the cover. Were we ever, really, that young? Ron offers that Terry ANDERSON is working in pupil information management systems for the Delaware Department of Education, by which Ron is also employed. Ron serves as the state president of the AFA and works on supporting the AMC Museum. Son Jared is with First Union in Charlotte, Anne studying wildlife ecology and running track at University of Maine, and balletic Sara contemplating college choices. Ron and Gayle will soon join the ever-increasing ranks of empty nesting ‘69ers.

Randy WALTI is still vice president and general counsel of Unigraphics Solutions, Inc. in St. Louis, the leading supplier of CAD/CAM software. Randy and Lynn will relocate to the West Coast soon with the change in locations of corporate headquarters. Son Chris is excelling in the Univ of Illinois’ electrical and computer engineering curriculum. Randy and Lynn are both working long hours, but took some dynamite vacations last year to compensate.

Harry EVANS bounced back from a second knee surgery to run the Great Race 10K with daughter Kate and enjoyed the thrill of it all over again a thrill his knee continued to remind him offor the next three weeks. This extended to dancing with Kate at her wedding to the Beatles “In My Life,’’ a song which now takes on additional meaning! Harry and Karen and both their daughters live in the Pittsburgh area.

In recent months, I’ve had the pleasure of drinking or dining with several of the Class, including Chips AMBROSE and WOOD, Tom KECK, Jeffs GRIME and POSNER, and Don RAKESTRAW. Chip A captains for Delta, lives in Northern Virginia, and with “kneesles” similar to Harry’s (and mine, and others) is contemplating the verities of life with cartilage-free knee joints; wife, Carol, works human resources matters for the city of Falls Church. Chip W lives in Punta Gorda; his consulting business thrives, finds him travelingwidely, and leaves far too litde time for him and Barbara on their sailboat. Tom KECK, at Barksdale with his everable partner Karen, keeps 8th AF on the straight and narrow. The Jeffs and Strawman work together Jeff G (and wife, Julie) and Don in Northern Virginia and Jeff P (and wife, Anne) out of Las Vegas sharing passions for motorcars and broad-ranging consulting with a defense focus. I suspect JeffP is the class recordholder for ownership ofvintage autos, which he purchased when they were available back when and has maintained ever since (among his stable are a Bugeye Sprite, an original Shelby Cobra, and a ‘75 Carrera). Don is pictured relaxing on Miami’s boardwalk during a recent business trip, working on his latest entrepreneurial idea, and trying to answer the age-old debate: “would you like that shaken, or stirred?” You’ll note his unicycle in the background, along with the enthralled onlookers and where is Wildcat PHILLIPS when we need him!

finishing a master’s in social work at FSU, hopes to apply massage therapy and yoga in a psychotherapy format, and Mark has started a new business in Oakland capitalizing on his experience in computer animation for architecture. The smiling clan is pictured, with pups. Who said Gobis don’t sprout wings?

Entrepreneurial Don Rakestraw at work.

And, not to be outdone by Don, we have out in Hawaii on business none other than Steve KIRBY, who had the difficult task oftrying to keep Arnold Palmer happy.

His Own Self,

Desserts at home: Kristin, Mark, JoEllen, and angel-winged Don.

Looking for something a little different to accent your upcoming summerslam party? Try a sampling from A1 MCCREE, who has just released two new CDs of wonderfully patriotic music though his company Altissimo! A “Patriotic Salute to the Military Family” and “Spirit ofAmerica,” the latter by the Old Guard Fife and Drum Corps, will take you back to the days of the Boston Tea Party. And, of course, Sam Adams.

Finally, ‘69s stars keep coming! Congrats to Brigadier General-select Charlie BALDWIN, AF Chaplain extraordinaire, who will become one of only two chaplain general officers. With his experience as a rescue helicopter pilot in Southeast Asia, Charlie can continue his tradition of rescuing souls in trouble from on high, this time as a man of the cloth.

May your summer solstice be extravagant and active. The 35th is but three years away. Start practicing now. Cheers. Lindsey

Dick Rauschkolb

14640 River Oaks Drive // Colorado Springs, CO 80921

Home: (719)487-0887

Work: (719) 472-0300/DSN: 333-2067

E-mail: Dick.Rauschkolb@USAFA.AF.MIL

Percent members: 68

Hey Seventy! By the time you read this, summer will be here and my sandbagger classmates will have their “tournament handicaps” established. Unfortunately, as I write this in mid-March, I am staring out my window at a blizzard and contemplating the prospect of spending the afternoon shoveling out my driveway. Hard to believe it was 61 two days ago. The joys of living in Colorado! Made my annual trek to the Wing Open last week. Was checking the program and saw the following names of classmates: Ken ALBRIGHT, Rudy ARAGON, Hank KAISER, Dorsey BATTLES, Charlie LONGNECKER, and John VANDERPOEL Wing Champions all. Haven’t heard from many of these men in years. If you’re reading this, send me a note and let your classmates know about your present status. We remain proud of your accomplishment in the ring over three decades ago. “Three decades”—that sort of catches in your throat doesn’t it!

Doolies are getting ready for Recognition next week—yes “Hell 42 Hours” is now in mid-March. You might think the place is going to hell, but I prefer to think of it as “enlightened leadership.” Did those last two months of living under the fourthclass system really make us better people? Congrats to Bill and Connie BENEDICT’S son Connor, Joe and Joanne’s YORK’S son Chris, and Brendan and Linda O’SULLIVAN’S son Luke, for reaching the first major milestone in their cadet careers. Nothing better than getting recognized! Unless it's enjoying one’s 30th Reunion as this group of revelers can attest!

Pictured are Steve’s brother Scott, the Man

and Steve. With Steve away for this event, and Roy COPPINGER with Mike BEEZLY skiing, no wonder equity markets tumbled.

Steve Kirby (left) offering golftips to brother Scott and Arnie himself DESSERT “Gobi” Don and JoEllen write that all goes swimmingly in Nashville, he as director of Parts and Service for Flash Technology, a strobe light manufacturer that installs and services the aviation obstruction lights on telecommunications towers, and she working on finishing a master’s in tax. Daughter Kristin

Rowdy Group Takes over Antlers. From left are Marilyn Rauschkolb, The Phantom, Bill Benedict, Chuck Weir, Wild Bill Stealey, Tommy and Cookie Thompson. Kudos to Jay BARRY. Jay was recently selected for his second star. He is the IMA to the commander of AETC. This promotion is richly deserved—Jay has given his heart and soul to the Air Force for many years. Chris has provided magnificent support as Jay juggled two careers. Congratulations to you both! Greg WOODHEAD checked in to tell me that Greg MARTIN recently retired Jim

ANDREWS in a ceremony at the Pentagon. Hopefully, Jim will send a picture of the ‘70 men who attended. Congratulations on a great career Jim. Speaking of GO’s here is a great pix of Dave and Kathy MACGHEE enjoying our Reunion festivities.

We aren’t Getting Older We are Getting Better!

Hold on to your hats seems Wild Bill STEALEY was here in April to guest lecture on the “art ofsandbagging” for the management dept. Onlykidding about subject! Congratulations to Wild Bill the cadets really enjoyed his lecture. It was great to share some time with Bill and Denise and take the Great One for a few sheckles on the links. Here’s a pix of John LIPP and girlfriend Janet, in that ’92 968 Porsche mentioned in the last issue.

long after we are all gone. Is there a better legacy? It is a proven fact that a handful of men will provide over 90 percent of the remaining frmds that we need. We are looking for a few good men are you out there? We really need your contribution.

TRIVIA: Duane SCHULKE sent the picture in the last issue. Tim KINNAN, Duane, and Gordon KING climbed the hills behind USAFA for this great shot. Duane is currently in Marietta, GA working on the F-22. John LENIHAN said Duane was Ed RASHID no cigars for John. This issue’s question who beat golf announcer and U.S. Amateur Champion, Steve Melnick, in a head-to-head golf match at USAFA?

Hope you all have a great summer. Let's hope Gregg POPOVICH is leading his Spurs to another NBA championship as you read this. Hit that ball straight, drive safely, and keep those e-mails and pictures coming. Falcons open with Oklahoma in Sept start thinking football. Arriba Falcones!

Paul D. Knott

5565 Lantana Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80915

Home:(719) 570-9162

Work (719) 481-9400

E-mail: pknott@acninc.net

IlfPercent members: 51 IT ^

We are rapidly approaching 9 June, 2001; the 30th anniversary of the date when 691 of us went out of Falcon Stadium with dreams of conquering the world, or at least making our part of it better. From what I’ve seen and heard from you guys, we have done our share. One of the more recent examples is Bill COLEMAN. He and Claudia donated $250 million dollars to the University of Colorado in honor of his nephew. The money will help develop computer programs that can help physically challenged kids connect with the world. This is just another example of how we as a class apply our motto to our lives.

I mentioned that Bob DROWLEY stopped by the office last fall. Enclosed is a photo that documents his son Michael’s wedding day. I cleverly hid this on my computer where I lost it until about a week after deadline. Thanks again, Bob, for the photo.

Riding High,—John and Janet enjoying the finer things in life. Ken GREENE will be out here in June to commission a graduating cadet. There is no higher honor, folks. Wish Ken’s middle son was attending USAFA—he had 31 on the ACT and wants to major in aerospace engineering. Despite Ken’s best efforts, it looks like he is Kansas bound. Hopefully, Joe MCCLELLAND will have better luck. His son Chris is primed to apply this year. Chip TERRILL e-mailed to express his regret over not being able to attend the Reunion. Seems in his position as a judge he had to make a major decision relating to the L.A. area refined petroleum market the largest in the world. If you live in California and are experiencing increased energy prices well you know whom to blame. Poor excuse for missing the Reunion Chip! We expect you and Wild Wood to be leading us in cheers in ‘05.

Heard from some former fellow preppies in addition to Ken and Chip. On a sad note, one of our formerTIs, Bob Miller, has cancer. Keep him in your prayers. Ken HASSEN is doing great thanks to Kdee and daughters keeping him on the go. Rick HUMKE e-mailed from India in the midst of a major earthquake. He was enjoying some adult beverages as buildings collapsed around him you gotta do what you gotta do. Ward BEIGHTOL checked in from his new digs on a golf course in Tampa. He is already working on his game for the next Reunion. Seems the stock market has been kind to him. Rich MANDAS also dropped me a line from Ohio apologizing for missing the Reunion seems US Air was undergoing some trauma last October.

Dick O’CONNOR went from the frying pan into the fire after retirement. He is working at the Office of National Drug Control Policy, Executive Office of the President. Sounds like that job involves some long hours and major headaches, Oker. Dana ARBAUGH wrote a nice note describing DK SHELTON’s life-saving actions at the USAFA bowl game in San Jose. Seems DK was enjoying his meal at the tailgate, when the "is there a doctor in the house” request was made. DK jumped up and spent the next 30 minutes keeping breathing passages open for a man who had suffered a seizure. Dana said that DK was pretty cool about it it has happened to him many times in his career. I bet he doesn’t gag on those pesky three-footers like I do! Great work DK we are proud of you! John POMROY called me inquiring about a USAFA tour for a relative interested in attending USAFA. Unfortunately, with all the spending cuts tours are not available on weekends and very few are given during the week in the off-tourist season. The Admissions office does a good job of giving youngsters tours if they are at least juniors in high school.

John LENIHAN attempted a stab at last issue’s trivia quiz see below. John has an OB-GYN practice in Tacoma and Cindy has been a teacher and high school principal. John is also a flight surgeon with the Reserves at McChord. He was out here last summer worked in the Jacks Valley clinic during second BCT. Great hearing from you—don’t miss the next Reunion, John!

CLASS GIFT: Just saw Les HAMBLIN, Gary DAHLEN, and Greg GILLES talking down the hall with the AOG Development people. The good news is that you folks have pledged over $300K to support our endowment for heritage projects at USAFA. It’s a great start for reaching our goal of $1.2M. Hopefully, some of you men with deep pockets will step up to the plate with a major league donation to support this worthy endeavor—which will leave our class’ mark on USAFA

The Three Captains Plus One: Mike, Janie, Nancy, and Bob Drowley.

As Reunion gets closer, more ofyou are thinking about showing up, which is part of the anticipation. Georges HOULE was nice enough to send a short note. “ObviouslyI retired in ‘91. Spent some time being me, on the FacultyofKansas Newman University for a few years, did some consulting, even went back to Rhode Island to be with family and the family business. Could not stay out of aviation. Back to Wichita, where I retired to work with Cessna. I am responsible for our supply base on the newest Citation model business jet we are developing—The Sovereign. We should have all the suppliers selected in another year and then go into building the test articles and prototypes. We will certify it in another three years. Most ofthe time it is fun to be back in the new airplane development business.

‘My wife, Lynda, helps me stay happy. She also helps me fulfill the nickname Gramps’ that Ray NIEMEC and the lacrosse guys gave me. Our blended kids have blessed us with 12 grandchildren with the 13th due in Nov. They are spread in Nebraska, California and Washington. We have attended the service Academy game every year depending on where we lived. Obviously, this year we are planning to be in the Springs in a few weeks. Hope to run into some friends. We have empty rooms if anybody comes out to McConnell or to visit any of the airplane manufacturers in this Air Capital of the world.”

J.D. McBRIETY attended the year 2000’s foremost social event, and passed on this report. “I have some great news for your column. Jim LAKE got married Saturday, 15 Oct and the event was attended by several 71 grads. Steve and Debby SHAY (CPA’s) and Patrick G. PAGLIN and myself. Jim married Gina at the Sutton Place Hotel Garden in Newport Beach. Reception followed. Big Band (The Essence) played through the sumptuous buffet. Then... a Greek guitar player/singer took the stage and things really got wild. Jim is Greek and therefore knows all the dances you see on the Aristotle Onassis movie. There were men dancing with handkerchiefs, men dancing with men... At one point, Jim did a push up over a glass of wine to retrieve money with his teeth. Patrick Paglin kept reloading the glass to see how far this would go!”

Lance MILLER is in favor of the SR-71 project, and suggested that we look into a loan from a museum that has one, such as the Pima Museum in Tucson.

Ken MORRIS was nice enough to volunteer for the SR project. “Getting something cosmic like an SR-71 to the Academy would be something that will last long after we’re gone. And it would sure motivate young peoplevisiting the Academy to at least consider going back as a cadet.

“Anyway, I’m not sure what ‘a movement afoot’ mentioned byBob LOWE means.

Is there a committee already working on it? What can I do to help? If no one has been brave (or dumb) enough to step forward to head up this effort, I’d be willing. I at least had enough sense to mention it to my wife, Marsha, before volunteering. Incidentally we met on the ZI field trip, got married graduation night, and are still married! Let me know where we stand on this thing and if I can help out in any way.

"I’m still doing the Academy Liaison Officer job it’ll be 18 years of it in Feb. I still live in Miami, FL and commute to Cincinnati flying 757/767 for Delta. I talked with our classmate Hank LAUGHLIN a couplenights ago. He’s still up nearWrightPatterson in the computer business working as a civilian on base in the same area as his final assignment before retiring from the Air Force.”

Ron HALE also was nice enough to drop a few lines. “Thanks for getting things started for our 30th. Margie & I will be there!

“John GRUESER and I are a couple of the Tone rangers’ still wearing a blue suit as Reservists. We’re both at theTACC at ScottAFB. He is the MA to the commander and I am the IMA to the director, Global Channel Operations. Fancy title, but fortunately, everyone who works for me knows what they are doing!

‘John and I have been known to resolve’ issues over a bit ofCrown Royal. Smile! One of our active-duty folks recently asked if we had known each other very long, whereas we remarked, ‘for about 35 years’. We were both Prep Schoolers. John always seems to know where everyone else in the class is, either still on active duty or in the Reserve/Guard. We have fun from time to time, swapping stories.

‘Besides spending too much time with the Air Force, John is flying the B747 to Australia with United (he lives in Denver) and I am flying the B767ER from NYC to Europe with Delta. I live in Georgetown, TX (near Austin).

‘Here are some of the guys I hear about. Charlie BROWN (Southwest) says he will be back flying within a few months. (He had a heart problem.) Rick MILLER (Chicago with United, had a hole in his heart fixed this past year and was out of the hospital in two days), Bill VAN’T WOUT is still in Atlanta with Delta. (His daughter is at the Academy.) Bill DeWALT still lives in Waco, TX and is flying Delta out of Dallas. He has a son at the Academy also.

‘Barry BRUNS is still in Nebraska as a technician with the Nebraska Air National Guard. I think he is the Vice Wing King there. Mike HAMPSHIRE is with American in Dallas. He had some medical problem that has had him out offlying for a while. He says he likes being Mr. Mom.

“That is all that comes to mind. I appreciate the time you must spend putting these little tidbits together for our magazine. I enjoy reading them and hearing where the guys all are. One suggestion for our 30th. Since the world is changing around us, would it be possible to share a bunch of e-mails with one another? Perhaps create a class e-mail list that we each could have. Knowing how most of us do not like extra mail, perhaps there is a way to ask us to volunteer our e-mail addresses, those of us who would like to. Just one more way to communicate.”

Rod JONES also has been doing homework about the SR71. “NASA has four SR-71s available, two flyable and two non-flyable, and that we can have one of either category. It is possible to pick one of the flyable ones and have it make its final flight over the Academy at our reunion and then land at Peterson Field for modification for static display. They will donate the aircraft but we will need to raise about $130,000 to cover the mounting of the aircraft. It sure seems like a perfect class gift for our 30th. If we have any grads, or better yet, classmates, working for Lockheed or whatever they are called now, I am sure we could get a sizeable donation from Lockheed. We might also try contacting some of our very successful classmates like Bill RICHARDSON, Bill COLEMAN, Russ HUFFER, A1 BRAYTON, etc. to see if they would be interested in leading a matching fund campaign. I’m sure the AOG can help us in identifying successful classmates. This is a unique opportunity for the Class of ‘71 and we should do all we can to make it happen.”

Rus STILES: “I missed the 20th reunion and have been kickingmyself ever since. I’ll be there for this one. Sorry I don’t have the time to ‘honcho’ it. I know it’s tough to find people. Maybe there’s something I can do from way down here in South Florida though. (No jokes about the vote!)”

Mark SUCHER will be at reunion. “On my end, nothing much has changed lately on the job front. I retired in 1996 and went to work for Fluor Daniel Fernald, Inc., a subsidiary of the Fluor Corporation. I became the general counsel in the fall of 1996, and I still hold that position. Our company works on a Department of Energy contract doing the environmental cleanup of the old Atomic Energy Commission/DOE uranium processing plant at Fernald, just northwest of Cincinnati, OH. Our house became much quieter this year as our youngest daughter, Jennie, moved away to start her freshman year at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill. Our son Matt is a junior majoring in aeronautical engineering at the University of Michigan, and our oldest daughter, Courtney, graduated fromWilliam & Marythis spring with a degree in finance. Linda and I haven’t found life without children at home to be ‘too boring’ as our children feared.”

Harry DAVIS is not only busily involved with reunion planning, but he and Cindy are building their dream house south of Monument. John and Bernadette STUBBLEFIELD are also moving to the Monument area; they found a nice place already built. John will be checking out in FedEx’s Airbus later this spring.

Mike GEBHART no longer has to commute to Denver. After retiring from the Air Force, he went to work for Compaq, and really seems to be enjoying the atmosphere and corporate culture there.

The largest collection of ’71 grads that I know of this winter was at the local AOG chapter’s annual membership meeting. John and Janie BLIND, Jon and

Class of 1971 - 30th Reunion

Jayne WROBLEWSKI, Steve DEHAVEN, Cass CASADA, and I shared a table and caught up on what we were doing. Wrobo is a full-time consultant, and seems to be doing well. John works in an engineering firm in Monument. A tradition at the membership meeting is the door prize. For the second year in a row, yours truly watched his classmates do well; the tickets behind and in front of me won lift tickets and Scotch. Steve was nice enough to pass around his brandy, and we toasted his success.

Another independent consultant is Tom CURRY. After I happened to catch his name in the business section of the paper after New Year’s we got together and he explained what had happened. His company was bought by a mega-corporation, which changed the corporate culture enough that it was to Tom’s advantage to become an independent, incorporate, and pay himself a salary.

Time is getting short. See you at Reunion! Later.

Bob Bell

13 Pacific Ave. Sinking Spring, PA 19608 (610) 678-3182/Fax: 678-4513

E-mail: rabell767@aol.com

Percent members: 49

Wow! The first of only two e-mails that I received for this issue comes from Class of ‘81 Mike “Jake” JACOBI writing about one COL Harry (Terry) CALCUTT. You know him as the 53-year-old seemingly eternal lacrosse player who, along with a number of other ‘72ers, has been immortalized on the lacrosse “Wall of Fame” back at USAFA. As president of Cincinnati Lacrosse, Jake took the time to write your scribe with a very favorable report on the continuing prowess displayed by Harry on the field at the start ofhis thirdstraight year as a starting attack man with the Cincinnati Lacrosse Club of the Midwest City Lacrosse Conference.

Now this would not be such a notable point but for the fact that at 53, Harry is the oldest guy still playing in the league, with the average age of the rest of the post-collegiate Division I level men’s club league members being around 30. In fact, Jake himself at 42 is considered one of the oldest active players, yet he looks on our Harry as a real inspiration. Still moving and running like a 20-year-old, Harry continues to run wind sprints and works with his stick during lunch breaks at Wright-Patterson, where he currently holds down the position of Chief, B-l Defensive Systems.

Harry never misses a practice and even made every single away game the team had last year to include two trips to Chicago and others to Atlanta, Kansas City and Pittsburgh. League-wide, Harry commands the respect of every player because of his innate ability and amazing stamina. Jake goes on to say that he proudly and with confidence starts every game putting Harry on first attack, regardless of the stiffness of the competition.

By way of a plug for the AF alumni team known as the GRAYBIRDS, this is your heads-up that they will be entering their fourth Vail lacrosse tournament this summer, playing in the over-40 division. Of course, Harry plans to join all the rest of our classmate lacrosse team members - Jim (Bev) LIVINGSTON, Gary (Lynn) KITO, Doug (Debbie) ADAMSON, Mark BCUNO, Rick KOSKELLA, Scott (Sandy) WEEKER, Smokey (Ann) STOVER, and George (Lovetta) WARGO in Vail where it promises to be quite a sight to see. Thanks to Jake Jacobi for that fine information regarding one of our own - remember when we all used to be able to do those things...

The other e-mail comes from Pete (Diane) SUTTON in his latest role as wing commander of the 12th Flying Training Wing at Randolph AFB, TX. His wing of 3,500 folks supports a huge base population of nearly 12,000 a day, primarily in the mission of training the instructor pilot force for the T-37, T-38, AT-38, T-l and soon the T-6 Texan which will be replacing the “venerable” T-37. Randolph is also home to most ofthe T-43 fleet, training AF and USN navigators as well as the only electronic warfare training school in DOD. In addition, HQ Air Education Training Command (AETC), HQ Air Force Personnel Center (AFPC), HQ Air Force Recruiting Service (AFRS) which Pete had previously commanded, and Air Force Management and Innovation Agency (AFMIA), HQ 19th Air Force (19 AF) and scores of other associate units make their home at Randolph - making Pete the equivalent of “mayor” of one big place.

Pete reports that the two-star promotion list recently came out with some predictablyrecognizable names on it - Mike (Linda) HAMEL, most recently chief of Plans Division, HQ AFSPACECOM at Peterson AFB; Ed (Judy) LAFOUNTAINE, commandant of Armed Forces Staff College at Langley AFB; Tom (Kim) O’RIORDAN, HQ USSTRATCOM at Offutt AFB; and Gary (Carolyn) WINTERBERGER beingamongthe latest ‘72ers deserving ofcongratulations. Pete also sees MGEN (Dr) Lee (Mariel) RODGERS pretty routinely since Lee is commander ofWilford Hall Medical Center there in San Antonio. Lastly, BGen Dave (Sue) WAGIE, Dean of the USAFA faculty, stopped by for a visit while at AFPC and the doolie-summer Cougar Squadron mates had a chance for a great chat.

As for me, the 767 international flying continues at American and I occasionally run into one ofyou guys passingthrough the terminal of some hub airportlike last December when I saw Kevin (Terri) PATTY standing at the computer terminal right next to mine in Dallas flight operations. Then there was the time I passed Andy (Char) CALTAGIRONE on the fly in one of the NewYork airports (or was it Chicago - who can even remember?). Such are the contacts we sometimes make during these busy times.

In April I finished over four and a half great years as squadron commander of the 709th Airlift Squadron at Dover AFB, DE where I will still be able to fly the C-5 a while longer while working for the Ops Group commander. It has really been a full and exciting time at the helm of one of the busiest strategic airlift units in the Air Force Reserve and I will definitely miss it. That about wraps it up for this goaround, folks. Please continue to let me hear from you as we try to put out the

word on your happenings around the world. Hope that all are planning to make way to USAFA for the big 30th Class Reunion in 2002. More to follow on that later... Take care. F.RA.

Dan O’ Hollaren

19803 Derby St

West Linn, OR 97068

Home: (503) 657-0299

Work: (503) 667-8554

E-mail: danoh73@home.com

Percent members: 43

Greetings ‘73 from the dryPacific Northwest. With water in short supply and our electricity bleeding south to power the neon lights of Hollywood, I am both inspired by a chilled glass ofWhite Zin and safe in the knowledge that my computer will stay lit long enough for me to impart the latest and greatest to you, the faithful. I am afraid the mailings have been sparse this quarter. I blame it on the recurrence ofthe infamous “DarkAges”, that time between Christmas and spring break when everyone turns inward for the strength to survive. Putting fingers to keyboard during these times is tough, I know. But a few did venture an epistle. Todd LAVIGNE and bride, Diane, are in Germany again. She is working a government contract at U.S. EUCOM in Vaihingen. Seems we wrote about her exploits a few columns ago. Based on her initial findings around computing security, she may have job security for a while! Todd is realizing the benefits of technology as he telecommutes from Germany for his Huntsville company, Sparta, Inc. Todd gets the stuff, does his thing, and then zips it back across the pond. He says, “...not bad for a guy who received a less than stellar grade in Comp Sci!” Heard from Bush HANSON with some updates. If some of this sounds familiar, there may be some duplicate reporting from the last column. Deal with it. AJ BRIDING is professor of aerospace studies at the University of Missouri while John KUCONIS is doing the same gig at MIT. Both AJ and John love it. Bob GLITZ will be retiring this summer from Gunter AFB. Sam GRIER should be improving his golf handicap as an unemployed computer instructor. Tom BLASE just arrived at Cannon AFB as a chaplain. Chris BLACK and Bryan CLARK both are flying Delta while Denny MAPLE and Ron JOHNSON are ferrying paying customers on Southwest. Not to be outdone, Jim MATEOS is still boring holes for American. Erik ANDERSON is still chasing the elusive true retirement as he stays employed by another of the ever-present “beltway bandits.” Dave BROWN is a surgeon practicing in the Springs. Don WETEKAM has reached the astral zone and is hanging out with all of those fighter jocks at ACC HQ. Craig PATCHIN is still administrating the Shriners Hospital in Salt Lake City. Fred MCNEIL is working in Memphis while sleeping and eating in Mississippi. John DUNCAN is hobnobbing with the politicians working in the old Executive Office Building as a loaned executive from the State Department. Randy RANDOLPH surprised everyone by finally marrying Georgie. Perseverance is the father of experience and the grandfather of success, Georgie! Congratulations! Bob HARTMANN is managing a retirement home in sunny California. Keep some rooms open for your classmates, Bob! Bush heard from Dave FLUKE; just couldn’t remember where or what! Finally, just to prove the old adage, John ROGACKI is now a rocket scientist at Huntsville.

Seagram Seven’s Ed WHITT wrote to update me on current happenings. He is flying the B737 forAccessAir out of Des Moines but living in Bryan, TX. Ed’s oldest daughter just finished her anthropology major at Texas A&M with a political science minor. Interesting combination. The USAF took a run at Ed for the recall they were exercising earlier in an attempt to get officers back for a three-year stint. Instead of repeating Ed’s opinion verbatim, suffice it to say he did not feel a reply was warranted. Joe KAHOE on the other hand did, and is now at Langley on the ACC IG team. Barry SCHEINOST sent a pic of him and the Nebraska AG. Apparently he was looking forward to hearing BGen Robin Olds at the NebraskaAviation Symposium, but the ex-commandant was a no-show. Vince PARISI writes from Bellbrook, Ohio, near Dayton, from whence he commutes to Wright-Pat. A 20year-and-out guy, Vince is working on helmet-mounted display stuff. His two daughters are both still in high school and their cocker spaniel still hanging on after 11 years. Geesh, I am glad to hear that! Vince has been in contact with Pete SANTAGO who is in North Carolina working in higher education.

Tom KROESSIG is residing in Peachtree City, GA with other ‘73ers. He is with Delta out ofAtlanta and was doing the L-1011 FO thing until a severe sinus infection placed him in DNIF status. He could use some support with your thoughts and prayers to get him out of a potentially serious condition and back in the cockpit. Neighbor Bryan CLARK and he are active in the Promise Keepers movement and are interested in any other classmates that have been active in this worthwhile endeavor. Jack CHRISTENSEN returned to the northwest inVancouver, WA, and is recovering from his “1/2 century” birthday by getting all sorts of “old man” meds from his sister the nurse. Remember Jack, it’s not the age, it’s the attitude! Jack’s retired and flying the skies with Northwest. His son is about to graduate from UPT and already has his sights set on flying in the Guard. Smart move!

Picked up on a February news article on Jay JABOUR, one of our astral classmates. Seems BGen Jay is the F-22 system program director and was comment-

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ing on the completion of the Raptor’s final two requirements to meet the production decision point. Radar cross-section testing and the flight of the #6 jet were the objectives. Nice going, Jay. Now, you just need to convince Congress to buy a few squadrons of these puppies. Ed PREBLE apparentiy introduced some funky font into our class website, evoking all sorts of threatening e-mails. I believe Ed has corrected the faux pas and we should be back in business. He did mention hearing from Bob LITTLE, now in the AF Reserves, and Dave SKALKO. No other details, though. Ed also heard from Clay STEWART, another victim of the ubiquitous computer crash, who finally was able to send out e-mail. He and the family have their sights set on Leadville, CO. Turning the house into a B&B is also in their plans, while they enjoy the golden years rocking on the porch and taking in the “great Colorado outdoors.” Ed is also thinking about making his way back to the Ramparts. Seems the summers are just too hot in New Mexico for him, the family and their four horses.

The Rebeleven mailbox was totally empty this time around, so there’s a challenge, guys: time for updates. The next time I will be penning this episde will be in the June time frame, so mark your calendars. As for yours truly, I survived my Health Services Inspection as the medical squadron CO and am preparing to take the unit to Andersen AFB, Guam, in April for a couple of weeks. We will be working both in the Air Force clinic as well as the Navyhospital. Should be interesting. Hope to get in some sun and snorkeling over the weekend. Expect a report in the Fall 2001 issue. Boeing is still keeping me gainfully employed Monday-Friday, now with a new job as operations director for the Portland facility. Son Paul and his new bride are building a new house while younger daughter Ashley has survived her first two terms at the University of Oregon and may have broken the code on college longevity.

One final note of thanks to classmate Scott PARKER for writing the Checkpoints obituary on Mike MAYER. Mike made some significant contributions during his career and was recognized at the highest levels within the military medical community. His devotion to his family was equally remarkable. He will be missed. Have a great summer and we’ll see you at the start of football season. AMF and Check Six!

Joe Brezovic

1209 Bayou Oaks Drive

Friendswood, TX 77546

Phone: (281) 482-6860

Office: (281) 244-8325/Fax: (281) 244-8909

E-mail: jbrezl@prodigy.net or joseph.brezovicl@jsc.nasa.gov

Percent members: 44

Howdy all!! Here’s hoping all goes better ‘n better for you each day...

Bill and Terry CASEMENT now live in Ft Worth, TX. Bill was asked to fly the L1011 for American Trans Air. He agreed. He trained in Miami/Atlanta. Terry found a teachingjob orchestra director for two middle schools whose programs were dead. What a challenge! Their one daughter starts an MBA program at the University of Houston. (We live there, Bill.) Another graduated with a degree in economics and is now in Maine. So they, too, are back in an empty home but they advertise that the Casement B&B is open now with more western flavor to the aloha.

Stephen DANIELS wrote from Scott AFB. His retirement date is tentatively set for 3 Aug (as of today, March 9). Stephanie (their firstie) has been approved for pilot training. Since the academy doesn’t do the T-41 anymore and the T-3 was grounded she still needs to do the IFT Initial Flight Training. So she graduates on May 30 and then starts IFT on 1 June. So all the best laid plans... Son graduating 25 May, daughter being commissioned on 30 May as my last official act on active duty. I think I understand Steve that he’ll take some terminal leave and out-process, but won’t retire until she finishes consequently 3 Aug.

From the memory hallways come stories of classmate Ed NORTON. Ed, I don’t remember where you are. First one happens in Second BCT, Jacks Valley. Nice weather. Meal tent sides rolled up. Some upperclass tents rolled up, too. You may remember that we all scarfed up food as best we could during BCT so we could squelch the hunger pains. Bananas for lunch. Ed strove to unobtrusively slip a few bananas around his waist inside the fatigue shirt. More than three. And he cleaned up his plate. Left the tent. Squared the turns as one is supposed to, or as best one can in JacksValley. Out ofthe blue comes a command. “Norton” is called out loudly. “Yes, Sir” was the response so that everyone knew that Ed was paying attention to this voice from hell! No command comes next. There was one that required doolies to go from an erect position to one that hugs the ground, in a split second. The command is “Flair.” So, “Flair” is called out. Then, after a squish is heard by those poor basics close by... “Roll, Right” and "Roll Left” were given. After the gods saw that the food was properly dispositioned, poor Ed was dismissed. I don’t think any of us know to this day to whom that voice belonged. I’m sure Ed would like to know.

There is one voice Ed did learn during another episode in 2nd BCT. During Air Base Security, we had our M-ls and some blanks. And Roger was in the bushes. Ed was part of our detail. Ed sees the target, aims near, but not at, on, or over, and fires. “OW” comes the cry from Roger. Only Roger knows now if he actually got hit with the wad. Ed was found to be at fault by the cadre. So for the next 30 minutes, Ed had to run down the hill, to the command post, report in, and back up the hill, report in, back down the hill to report to command post, and back up. Ed sweated a bunch that day.

Another time I remember Ed putting out was during Hell Week. Yeah, back in the full-week days. We were in Second Squadron, which was the sixth floor in Vandenberg Hall. It was one of the change uniform days. Fatigues UOD. Down the six flights to report at the BOR (base of the Bring Me Men ramp). Then back up to wear another set of uniforms...and don’t even think about wearing white gym socks under the black boot socks to save time! I distincdy remember facing Ed coming out at the top of the sixth floor stairwell not a dry place on the uniform. One good thing out of all this, Roger quit in the middle of Hell Week.

Now Gene BEDNARZ and myself could have a two-man room until school was over. Ed, I’m proud to have known you.

I look forward to hearing from any ofyou. May each ofyou live long and prosper.

Jeff Hackett

2610 E. Stotder Drive

Gilbert, AZ 85296

Home: (480) 558-8703

E-mail: jhackett75@home.com

Percent members: 49

OPERATORS ARE STANDING BY! As I prepare for my quarterly “make-something-out-of-nothing” exercise, it occurs to me that I missed an opportunity to piggyback my perennial lack-of-inputs problem with the Class Gift Campaign. Once the professional campaigner got you to commit your dollars, it would only have taken another minute to tack on a persuasive pitch about pledgingjust one or two paragraphs of news every three months to your Class Scribe - hell, we’d even let you send it in the same envelope as your check! (Insert your own mental image of me sitting at the computer with a blank look on my face.) So won’t you put aside whatever you’re doing right now and make that “call” to give the gift of words that just might make a difference in the life of the Scribe, an old roommate, or that guy in the Class of 73 that thought you’d never amount to anything. Call (or write or e-mail) today, won’t you? On the other hand, maybe that 73 grad was right!

On the subject of the Class Gift Campaign - as of this writing (mid-March) things looked pretty good/pretty bad, depending on how you choose to spin the numbers. Seventy percent of the folks who’ve made firm decisions have decided to pledge and the average pledge ($1,547) is slightly above target. But about a third of the people contacted so far have not given a firm “yes”/“no” answer. (Editorial policy precludes me from sharing my thoughts on the 30 percent who gave a firm “no”.) My guess is that the professional solicitation phase of the campaign will have ended by the time you read this but I’m sure there are still ways to get yourself on-board if you initially said “no”.

LATE OR MISGUIDED INPUTS STILL WELCOME. Bentley RAYBURN’s and Scott SMITH’S Christmas cards didn’t arrive in time to be included in the last column. Looking at the postmark, I think Bentley’s probably got to my old address in time but the forwarding thing didn’t work out just right. Bentley is done with the ACC/IG thing and has moved on to the ACC/XP (Plans and Programs for you civilians) thing which gives him a lot of insight on the “where we’ve come from” and “where we’re going” story (one telling excerpt: “In the last 10 years your Air Force is 40 percent smaller in terms of people, while our operational deployment activity has increased 400 percent!”). Debbi and all four of the kids (Moriah, Micah, Carrisa, and Cassandra) are doing great things and, as the photo shows, make a darn good-looking group. Scott and Janet got my address right but confessed to being a litde late this year (which puts them one or more up on those of us who failed to get cards mailed out). Another chronicle of busy times and a family growing up too fast (Jenny - high school senior, Scott - high school freshman). Jan is now the assistant director of Surgical Services at Potomac Hospital and Scott is now a 737-800 first officer on the Delta Shuttle.

The Rayburn Family

MEETING OF THE MINDS... OR WHATEVER. Jim CARLSON (and others?) organized a remedial reunion get-together in Washington, DC at the beginning of February. I understand it also served as a wake for the not-quite-dearly-departed Curt OSTERHEALD (see my last column for an explanation). Although I sadly did not get any photos nor gory details, I’m told that a good time was had by all (26 guys plus spouses / significant others) and that they’re looking forward to the USAFA vs. USNA football game for their next meeting.

This would seem to be the ideal time to make a plug for the Arizona Chapter of the AOG those of you who are fellow desert-dwellers should get on-board so that we can make sure there’s a substantial 75 representation at any/all upcoming events (would think that there will be organized trip(s) to the San Diego State and/or New Mexico football games next Fall). Call me for membership details.

RANDOM SIGHTINGS AND WIRETAPS. I’ll grant you the benefit of the doubt and postulate that the e-mail change I made in February sabotaged the hundreds (?)... dozens (?)... couple of e-mails that y’all sent. Please make a note of my new e-mail address in the by-line at top of this column. End result is that I only have a very small bit of information to pass along. On my last flight home from USAFR duty in Albuquerque, I sat next to Jim MARBURGER who was on his

way back to Phoenix from an aviation law symposium in Dallas. Jim’s still doing well and keeping the scales ofjustice in balance with the Gust - Rosenfeld firm here in Phoenix. There are plans for catching an upcomingCoyotes’ (NHL) game together, especially if we can catch Jim’s rookie roommate, Phil PEARCE, in town. I spent a few hours with Phil and Chris in their lovely home a few weeks ago as I drove (dragged) my exhausted carcass home from an in-line skate race in North Scottsdale. They’re doing well and Phil is still traveling a good bit.

Phone calls from Rich CHANICK (local) and Kent TRAYLOR (long distance from D.C.) - all is well in their respective locations and with their families & careers.

I’ll slip in a regular reminder for each ofyou to check out and contribute material (notes, pictures, etc.) to our class homepage [http://www.tc.umn.edu/ -carlsonj/]. Jim Carlson is doing a wonderful job of making it better and better all the time!

PUTTING ME BACK IN MY PLACE. For very possibly the first time ever, I made my input (paragraphs above) to the Checkpoints editors right on time (understand the paramedics were successful in reviving them when that happened). But I’m more than glad to take the hit (cut in pay?) from the AOG for being late again so that I can acknowledge/share input from John CHARLTON who e-mailed to say he recently attended a Transition Seminar with eight of our classmates: Joe SINISCALCHI, Greg FRICK, Bill SPENCER, TerryYOUNG, DaveWILLIAMSON, John LOUCKS, Jim HARTNEY, Joe MAY, and Jerry LEVESQUE. John included a picture but we couldn’t get it published here (not enough pixels), check the class website copy of this column to see the smiling faces. Now I certainly expect to hear from you guys!

^

Ernie Woollard

216 E. Goetder St. '? S a Scott AFB, IL 62225-1710

Home: (618) 744-1044 / Work: (618) 256-7948

E-mail: evw76@aol.com

Work e-mail: Ernest.Woollard@scott.af.mil Class Website:http://www.AFAcademy.com/76

Percent members: 41

Greetings 76ers!

Hope all is well and we’re into the swing ofthings for the summer season. And, of course, just around the corner is...FOOTBALL...OKLAHOMA? Can you believe it, the national champions for the home opener Parents’Weekend? I thought we were doing great just to have Army for our 25th reunion in November... Way to go Randy, well done!

Speaking of our 25th reunion, it appears Dan BEATTY has a good jump on planning activities. The dates are now final: 1-4 Nov. We once again lucked out, and our hotel of choice is the Adams Mark Antlers. Package information should be out shortly: remember to book early, and check-in for the event could be as early as Oct 31 st for that Indian Summer round of golfby day and “trickor-treating” with that special someone by night. I’ve been told that we should remain flexible for Game Day activities, as The Mountain West/ESPN may want a night game for television coverage that Saturday stay tuned. Dan says that the big dining experience is being planned for Friday the 2 nd ; save room for dessert. At any rate, Dan told me that many of our Colorado permanent resident classmates are jumping up to help with the planning, but if you have a special request or ideas on what we may want included in the festivities, please don’t hesitate to contact Dan at: DSN 692-6160 or (719) 554-6160 / e-mail: daniel.beatty@peterson.af.mil.

In late February I was fortunate enough to land a TDY opportunity to Colorado Springs and USSPACECOM... wow how the “Springs” has changed since our cadet years, and even in the past five years since the 20th reunion. The growth is just unprecedented, and the “maze” of streets can keep the best of navigators lost for several hours. I had some free time right after my arrival, so I headed up to the Academy for a quick tour and stop at the gift shop. The facilities and grounds are still impeccable... I jaunted down to the athletic area looking for Russ LANEY and Randy SPETMAN. Unfortunately, well, maybe fortunately... Randy was in Tulsa with the swim team at the conference championships, but Russ was still hard at work, wheeling and dealing, telling me about the Oklahoma deal that would soon be final. Russ was really not too happy about my MIZZOU polo shirt, but today, that’s where most of my money seems to be going. I told Russ the gift shop didn’t have any stylish long-sleeved polo shirts, soooo... He assured me that come November, our selection would be just as good, if not better, than that at the University of Missouri! Russ, by the way, is looking great; he’s dropped about 30 pounds, and says the only time he’s felt better was when he was really working at Davis-Monthan in Titan IIs.

Other news from the Academy is speculation that Mark WELSH, our commandant, may be moving on late this summer... stay tuned to that “GO” assignment list. Joe MARCHINO was also at the conference, representing the PACAF/Hawaii contingent. Joe’s doing well supporting those PACAF DP issues and ensuring he is on Hickam’s first tee at 7:37 every Saturday morning. Mike WORDEN is also floating around out there in PACAF-land, not sure what he’s up to, but Joe insisted that he was working hard, too. Sorry I didn’t make the April Honolulu conference Joe.

And finally, from Chicago... John ERIGO, “Big J,” sent me a long-overdue update and picture ofhim and his new bride. John reminded me about some of our

Class of 1976 - 25th Reunion USAFA vs. Army

John and Alyssa Erigo cadet cross-country “driving exhibitions” (please John, not in front of my teenage drivers). John is a United Airlines Airbus captain. He and Alyssa live in Lake Forest, just a stones throw from any Chicago sporting activity... Cubs or Blackhawks (notice I didn’t reference the Chicago minor league franchises... Bulls, Bears, White Sox), just give “J” a call at (847) 234-0011. John and Alyssa’s favorite pizza place is Lou Malnattis, home of the world’s best deep-dish pizza!

Well, that’s a wrap! Hope we are all making those reunion plans... tuning up the vehicle, lining up the child care, coordinating with the travel agent... see ya there, and FLY SAFE! Ernie

John J "Lou” Michels, Jr.

5107 Juglan Court Centreville, VA 22020

H: (703) 802-6611 W: (703) 712-5350

Fax: (703) 712-5050

E-Mail: jjmichel@mwbb.com

Percent members: 40

wGreetings from the land of “the blizzard that wasn’t.” After being threatened with snow at the beginning of March, all we have seen is rain. The only way I get to see snow around here is bygoing to JohnVISSER’S (Ann) ‘77 website and looking at the Academy webcam to see the terrazzo in white. Hope the winter went well for all of you.

ALERT: This is will be a very chatty column because I have virtually no news from anybody. I suspect this is due to the short deadline between the arrival of the magazine and when my column has to be in, but do me a favor and start slandering each other year round so I will have some copy. Thanks.

Curt BEDKE (Ina), now General BEDKE, took over the 2nd Bomb Wing at Barksdale in December and now owns his own fleet. Congrats, Curt; they didn’t waste much time after the promotion did they? Jean “Frenchy” FERNAND (Karen) is punching holes in the sky for United out of the Springs, and moonlights towing sailplanes at the Academy. I’m going to assume that Frenchy is saner than the guys I used to watch tow me up. I recall high-performance stalls, corkscrew-dives, and just about anything else physically possible in a Piper Supercub without tearing the wings off. Frenchy and Karen had a busy last year celebrating the wedding of their oldest son, wringing their hands over their middle son getting his drivers license, and generally wondering whether United unions were going to walk out on strike anytime soon. Hang in there folks. At least you are living in Colorado.

Lorin and Merry Kay LONG are now fully settled into Des Moines. No, not Iowa, this Des Moines is in Washington, where Lorin is flying for Alaska Airlines as a 737 FO. Lorin was commuting to L.A. for a while living “in a crash pad” with nine other pilots (I’ll bet that was a housekeeping challenge!), but then was assigned to Seattle late last year. Glad to hear you’re closer to home, Lorin.

Curt TAYLOR (Terri) is heading off to Ramstein to work at USAFE; however, sans family at least for a few months. Terri is an active-duty nurse and was selected by the Chief Nurse Board, so she has a few assignment options in the area. By the time you read this they should knowwhat they are doing, so my best wishes to both of you. Curt has promised me some “Checkpoints-type” photos on his last TDY. I could use those pix right this second, Curt.

TO INFINITY AND BEYOND: For those of you with plenty of time on your hands (or those who want to read a great story) I recommend to you the Feb 19, 2001 issue of Aviation Week featuring an extended article on the placement of the Destiny laboratory on the International Space Station. Leading the charge on this mission was none other than the Class’ lone space walker, Tom JONES (Liz). These space walks went much better than Tom’s last attempt, in which he ended up being locked in the airlock when the door latch malfunctioned on the way out. No such hitches this time. In fact, there is an unbelievable picture of Tom hanging from the shuttle arm on his second EVA, looking like either a Christmas ornament or a fly-fishing lure.

Tom and his fellow space walker eased the laboratorypayload out ofthe shuttle bay with approximately two inches on either side of the module to spare. For someone who has marred innumerable pieces of furniture trying to get them through doorways, I have nothing but respect for Tom and the crew in that they got the payload out of there without a scratch. Perhaps the weighdess conditions had something to do with it.

After playing furniture mover, Tom plugged the lab into a variety of power and fluid connectors; in the process he had to dust off his partner who managed to spray ammonia all over himself. Tom performed a second EVA to move a dock

ing system from one part of the space station to another, as well as installing power fixtures and an awning for one of the windows. On his third space walk Tom mounted a critical s-band antenna, demonstrated retrieving a disabled EVA crewmember, and climbed to the top ofthe space station’s solar array mast. Fittingly, he took a picture and told the controllers in Houston, “This is gonna make a centerfold in Aviation Week.” Well, not quite, but it got you some great press, Tom. Congratulations.

QUICK HITS: Got a few short e-mail shots from those ofyou who are still checking in on the web site. Jim BATTON (Lisa), who had been working at a firm called FirstCard/First Chicago, was recruited by Sears last year and is now the chiefinformation officer for Sears Credit. Jim and Lisa are living in St. Charles and trying to keep all of us Sears credit card users from blowing up the system. John VISSER (Ann) sent me this photo of none other than himself and Bill BRANDT (Susan) at a recent dining in of the North Texas AOG. Bill was stepping down after a year as the chapter president. Bill also noted that he is upgrading to an MD-11 captain at FedEx for his next promotion. Thanks for the info, John.

Pat BURKE (Denise), last seen giving flying lessons in this space, reported sadly that he had tried to bid on the Academy’s RFP because introductoryflight training would never turn a profit under the Academy’s criteria. Pat said that he was hopeful that a zero-profit organization of USAFE grads could handle anything, but not now. He said he was going to try to take another shot at the RFP after he has gotten over his initial disappointment. Any ofyou who are interested, please contact him at p_w_burke@hotmail.com. I am sure he would like to hear from you.

MEA CULPAS AND GOODBYE: Some ofyou have commented on the fact that the picture of Doug ATKINS’ (Kristen) family was hard to make out in the last issue. In fact, it was omitted completely, or Doug has finally mastered stealth technology in the visible spectrum. In any event, here is the missing picture.

That’s all from the land of the big malls. Be seeing you.

T. J. “Bahaska” Whitehair

1205 Southview Drive

O’Fallon, IL 62269 (618) 632-1423 •mSggff

E-mail: Bahaska@intertek.net

Percent members: 39

wYa Gotta Have Heart. Paul VALOVCIN, Colonel, One Each, Issue recendy had an angioplasty to have those heart arteries/veins cleaned out real good. Of course, having it done in an Army Hospital (Walter Reed) was a risky proposition (akin to calling Roto-Rooter) especially since he had to fly eight hours there from Germany. However, “A, B, & C” Squadron preppies pulled together and our prayers were answered as he got out of surgery unharmed and is reported to be doing very well. However, one comment needs to be made. Since Paul is an avid iron man competitor, marathon man, and is entered in the next Mr. Universe competition, how could he possibly have plugged piping? The world wonders. Hey Paul, your preppie buddies wish you a speedy recovery.

Honor Bound. Recently, I became aware of a cheating scandal where some 40 Prep Schoolers copied part of a computer file for a homework project. Periodically, these cheating scandals do unfortunately occur. This invoked the wrath of the powers that be, as it should have. In February, they put out the call for former preppies and/or grads to attend a seminar to speak to these preppies that are bound by the same honor code as the souls that attend the ice palace. Their goal was to speak to these young men and for former preppies/grads to tell “war stories” on how the honor code was invaluable to their success and making sure that the mission succeeded.

Although I could not attend, I sent a rather pointed e-mail to the Prep School authorities noting that the honor code is sacred and that anyone who could not abide by it should be “kicked out even if only to serve as a warning to those that remain.” My feeling when I wrote the letter was that once you embrace the dark side of the force, forever will it dominate your life. However, shortly after sending this off, I received an e-mail that made me re-evaluate my thoughts concerning the honor code.

Why second thoughts you ask? Well I received a letter from a former preppie and early member of the Class of 1978 who made a mistake and was removed from the Academy. I’m choosing not to mention his name because I’m sure it’s still somewhat painful even after all these years. But I found it to be one of the most thought-provoking letters that I have received. Far from being bitter and against the honor code, he wholeheartedly still embraces the concept and the requirements and stated so to the officials at the USAFA Preparatory School. His split-second lapse of judgment changed his life, but in an extremely positive manner. He overcame the stigma from classmates, friends, parents, and the business world to make himself a success in spite ofhis mistake. Now it appears he understands the code more than I can humbly say I do. When attending the blue zoo, and although I was aware and trained in the code, I suspect like most cadets I really didn’t think about it, I just accepted it and followed.

I was forced by his comments to re-evaluate and look deep inside at those core values that I believe in and cherish. So after much thought, I wrote him an email, short and sweet, which I noted that those who cherish freedom the most are those who once lost it and have now regained it. I truly believe that this statement applies to honor as well. (NOTE: Little didIknow thatanother thoughtprovoking article entitled “Honor Found", written by Col. Mark Hyatt, USAF, '70, would appear in the Winter 2001 edition ofCheckpoints.)

The Livie family in Keystone, Colorado.

2001, A Space Odyssey. By the time this graduation issue hits the street, Vincent LIVIE, son of ‘78er Brian “Skivs” LIVIE (see photo), should be a brand new butterbar and eventually off to pilot training at MoodyAFB. May he serve as well as his dad, a former CS-25 squadron mate of mine. Brian reports that Vince is the firstoffspring of a ‘78er (another milestone for the Class of 1978) to graduate from the Blue Zoo. Congrats and kudos to all the Class of 2001 for a tough four years.

Preppie Gathering: Mariano NANDIN wants a preppie get-together for the fall, for the AF-Oklahoma football game I bet. If you are prone to this idea, contact him at jrnandin@mitre.org. And all you technically challenged preppies need to get your e-mail address to him to complete a good list of all us old guys.

New Format: Did you notice that the Winter 2001 Checkpoints has a new look for articles? Well, what do you think? Send some comments, after all it’s your magazine!

You Might Be a ‘78er If: Near-Beer (3.2%) still tastes good.

Down for the Count: Well, later dudes and hang ten: summer is here. Bahaska

John “J.R.” Dallas 10501 Ramsgate Court

Fort Smith, AR 72908 (501) 648-0433/DSN: 962-8271

E-mail: John.Dallas@arftsm.ang.af.mil

Percent members: 40

'jSBEfe

WGreetings, ’79ers !! It seems like only yesterday that I was in Sao Paulo, Brazil writing this article in 2000, and now I sit in NewYork City in early March ready to pass along news from the world of 79. Mythanks to all that havewritten, called, or stopped to chat in airports around the country; y’all make this bearable. My wife, Daren, and I are getting used to the casual living in Ft Smith, AR. I am the OG/CC (Ops Group CC) for my ANG unit. Once the former occupant finally left the White House, we converted to the F-16C. Go figure. My girls are 13 and almost 8, and Daren and I are off to Germany with them for a vacation in late March. Trying to see Mike LEGGETT at Ramstein while we are there. Time will tell.

I’ve heard that Trevor ALBRO (SWA 737CA) is soon retiring from flyingVipers for the Boys from Syracuse. Still has his cadet 280Z works on it alot!! At recent conferences, I’ve seen Mike PEPLINSKI (OG/CC at Selfridge, MI) and John NICHOLS who went from the OG/CC at Madison, WI to the FW/CV (Vice CC) at KellyAFB—TXANG. Both are doing great things for the ANG. On an AAL trip to Zurich, Switzerland last year I met Pete BERGAMINI’s mom at the hotel. Pete flies for AAL out of Miami. Small world. She did seem proud, Pete! John PARDO writes that he is the Dep Chief of Plans in the U.S. Joint Forces Command at

Norfolk. He passes along the following: Bruce GEBHARD retired in Sep 00 as the Spt Ops CC at Pope AFB and now flies for Midway Airlines, Dave VANDERCOOK was the ASOS CC at Ft Drum, Butch RAYFIELD is still doing pediatric doctoring in Maryland at Ft Belvoir, Dan BAUMGARTNER is the Chiief of Staff for the Joint Personnel Recovery Agency I only report the news, I don’t decipher it! Paul BORDENAVE is the acting J5 soon to be J3 for the Iceland Defense Force. Paul has flown F4s, F15s, and F18s. Not bad. Dr. Dale JONES wrote a while back to report that he retired in Aug 00 and that he is now the Director of the Gov’t Performance Project. This is an effort to assess the management capacity of all 50 states and a bunch ofmajor cities. He is an associate professor at Syracuse Univ. Dale says this is his first time to make the Checkpoints article. After 22 years? Wow!

I read a Joint Patriot Newsletter in Dec and saw that the author was a John WAGNER. I e-mailed the “Are you a ‘79er?” message and got the reply that, yes, another classmate was in charge of something. John is a temp AGR (full-timer in the ANG) at Reno, NV flying C130s running this exercise. He departs the AF in July and his apps are out w/everyone. He reports that: Harry WHITING retired and now flies for FedEx, Steve LOWERY works at 9thAF, Pete BUNCE was the OG/ CC in Tucson but is now an AF congressional advisor, GuyWALSH is at Tucson as the OG/CD (Dep OG), and Glenn WEAVER made 0-6 and is now at Randolph. Thanks, John. Good luck with the airline hiring prospects.

Thanks to all for the Xmas cards and letters. Here are some tidbits of info: Walt WRIGHT gave up command ofthe 524th FS at Cannon AFB after a deployment to OSW last year. He’s at Air War College and says his golf game is improving rapidly. Made 0-6 and will pin on soon. Congrats. Ken KRAAK (SWA 737 CA) sent a great Xmas card announcing that he married Annie in Sept 00. They live near Baltimore. Greg SVESKA (AAL 777 FO) and family got the urge to experience Colorado again and recently moved to Monument. Greg still commutes to DFW as does wife, Brenda. Daughter Brooke has dad right where he wants to be. John SUSALLA (NWA DC9 CA) just upgraded to captain and flies a few times with F/A wife, Kathy, out of Detroit. He’s still doing AF Liaison work and made LtCol recentiy. John’s brother is on an admiral’s staff and got John a ride on an aircraft carrier from Hawaii to San Diego. How cool is that? Mike WATSON and I had a golf game planned recentiy in Phoenix but I had to back out at the last minute my loss. Mike is doing great w/ USPA&IRA in Phoenix. He, Bonnie, and the boys hosted a ton of people the past year and squeezed in trips and golf in between. Thanks, Mike. We’ll reschedule promise.

Jammer MOORE sent this photo of his family at Xmas and reports that his #1 job is still flying 727s for UPS (Louisville). #2 job is working at die Pentagon for the AF Reserves. Tennis still dominates most ofhis and Pattie’s leisure time. Says to bring your rackets when you visit. I know I warned Chuck FRANCESHI years ago about the cost of college educations but he never listened to me as his roommate - so why did I think that he would listen to me later? He and lovely wife, Laura, added their seventh child this past Sept to their clan. Regina Elena (Gina) was born Sept 23rd at their home (by design) and weighed in just under 8 lbs. Nick, age 20, is the oldest. God truly has blessed them - their kids are remarkable and my hat is off to all of them.

Phil FINCH wrote fromArkansas where his farm life is getting better. He started 2000 as a 747 FO w/ NWA but this past Oct made the plunge to A320 CA in MEM much nicer? Daughter at U ofA; son in high school. Phil, we are still due for a golfmatch. Mike LEGGETT is at Ramstein, Germany as the deputy division chief of the USAFE Ops and Trng Division. Doesn’t have as many TDYs, but the work hours are worse. With all the visitors they host, he and Wendy criss-cross the landscape from wine fest to wine fest. Work hours? Sure sounds like a lot of free time. Remember - get that time off in late March!

I saw Mike OTOMO (AAL 757 CA) a while back in San Juan. Looks great. Son is in college. Steve MATHEWS (AAL CA) just upgraded to the A300 in Miami. Steve

is the bottom guy on the Airbus list with little hope to move out of clean-up. He and Caroline live in a two-bedroom condo on Miami Beach that looks out over the water. Beautiful! I saw Ron LAFON at AAL ops and he has upgraded to FI00 captain (DFW), lives on a 90-acre ranch in Sanger, TX, and just retired as the Flight Safety officer w/the 301 FW at the base formerly known as Carswell. His high-school daughter just made All-State Band. His brother-in-law is Larry SANDOVAL (SWA 737 CA—Love Field) and Ron says that he is doing wonderful. Just had a son graduate from college.

I reported a few years back that Rocky ELLISON (AAL S80 CA) was pastoring at a church in North Texas on his off-days. He’s left that church and is now ministering to inmates in a Texas prison. I’m betting that his work will produce great results. Good luck, Rocky. I visited with Rick STAPLES (DAL MD88 FO) two months back at DFW. Rick works as a Fit Ops Manager for Delta at DFW. JanMarc JOUAS left the demands ofbeing the OG/CC at SpangdahlemAirbase, Germany and is now at the Pentagon’s J-5. He’s the NATO Division Chiefin the Joint Chiefs of Staff Plans and Policy Directorate. Wife, Marion, attends Georgetown University for a master’s in health management. Another move is likely in 2001. Keep in touch, Juice. Enjoy the nation’s capital. Don COHICK (Vice OG/CC at Scott) flew to FSM awhile back for a visit. Someone had to make that parts run! He, Lisa, and the kids are enjoying Cardinals and Rams games as often as possible. Thanks for the visit, Don.

During a visit to ANG headquarters late last year, I saw JeffHILTON and was able to visit with him. He’s still active duty but works as the A-10 Program Element Manager (PEM) for the NGB XPPP. He lives in Arlington, VA while working at JP1. He has the bestview out of his office window - unbelievable! He daydreams while looking at the U.S. Capital and the Potomac. He’s planning on one more year until retirement and is attempting to get assigned to Vance AFB for his fini tour. He keeps in touch with Tom YANNI and Mike LONGORIA regularly. He thought that Tom worked in J-5’s Arabian Peninsula branch, and that Mike was at MacDillAFB with USSOCOM (U.S. SpecialOps Command). Bill GREGORYis working on his tan in Phoenix and says he works for Honeywell Corp. He still runs duathlons (?) and triathlons between business trips to Houston.

Mike ASHLEY sent some late news from Rob ROWE. Seems as if Rob is the chief test pilot for Lockheed Martin on the U-2 at Skunk Works. He says the job is more like being a test pirate, but the pay is good. Wife has him riding horses and playing the violin. Mike also writes that Brian HAMPL lives in Poultney, VT worldng for a magazine distribution company. Anyone seen or heard from Rick BENNETT? If so, pass info to Mike Ashley. Must close. You guys are the best. Fly Safe. Be Safe. Hope you enjoyed it.

Don Myers

1424 Barberry Lane

Peachtree City, GA 30269-6916 (770) 631-1429

E-mail: DMyers80@hotmail.com

Class Home Page: http://usafa80.tripod.com

Percent members: 58

Now I know what a flowering spring is supposed to be like! We lived up north for so long that Kathy and I forgot what beautiful colors are presented in the trees and flowers. Of course, when you get this magazine in time for June Week, we will likely be gasping for air in the heat but I’m willing to make the trade-off at this point.

Due to my move, I didn’t find out about the December death of Stephen E. SMITH until after I wrote the last article. As we become more established in the middle of life, I anticipate more and more notices will go out to you about the "last flight” of one of our own. I encourage you to write a note to the family members left behind to share a favorite memory you had of/with the person who has left us.

It seems George (Nadine+2) MADSON will be hanging up the Air Force spurs this summer. This should circumnavigate a remote command post tour that likely had his name on it and allowhim to remain an involved father near Offutt/Omaha. Actually, I think the real reason to stay home is to monitor a certain son with a learner’s permit.

On occasion, you’ve read one of my updates on A1 (Patty) DORN’s battle with MS. They are still living inAshville, NC, where A1 can get treatment at theVA hospital nearby. Patty (who also is battling health issues) sent an email out to a handful of us that have been keeping up with Al’s progress. In late winter, he went on an intense steroid treatment, followed by a tapering-offdrug therapy. Any improvement takes 3-4 months to observe. This is the fourth time for this massive jolt to his system. That’s the short version, but if you’re a “prayer warrior...”

I finally sifted through some of the photos I took at the reunion (not many, since I was only there for the day ofthe football game but I know some ofYOU have good ones). Mark (MESCHELL) MILOSCIA is another of the handful among us that has an offspring in the same suit in which we started 20-plus years ago. I didn’t write their daughter’s name down, but I do remember that the Zoo extends the option to next-generation cadets to enter the same squadron as their parent(s). Nice touch.

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Star Trek the Next Generation?

If you’re looking for more “life after retirement” success stories, Chuck (Net+4) MILLIGAN got his professional engineering license and stays busy at a small engineering firm in Monument, CO. In his free time, besides the family activities I’ve mentioned in the past, Chuck also works at ArtQuest, the company he and Net started. Net does website design and he does architectural drawings for homes.

Got an email from Doug Stephan. Seems he started with us and resigned in ‘79, joined the Coast Guard in ‘85, and will be heading up to Kodiak, Alaska to fill one of the many vacant C-130 pilot positions. That’s all I know, but I can connect you to him.

Of course, by now you know that our own Sue HELMS is floating around on (and sometimes outside) the international space station. You can get a lot of info at NASA’s web site about her. Initially, she wasn’t very excited about living on the space station. In 1996, after her boss asked ifshe’d do it, she took a couple of days to decide. “I made the choice within a day or two, but I wrestled with the choice for probably several months, doubting whether or not I made the right choice because it was a huge commitment.” She’s taken living in space a step further than most: she stored her personal belongings, made her address a post office box, and only kept one bank account (for direct deposit of her paychecks, of course!). “Try and lose the telemarketers, that’s one objective.” In any case, her home for several months will truly be the space station.

That’s it from this end. You folks have tapered off a litde in your scribe correspondence. Since we’re supposedly getting a litde more free time at this age, I’d like to have you spend just a handful of it with me/us. As always, the best to you and yours.

Dennis Ward

8300 Greentree Manor Lane Fairfax Station, VA 22039-3214 (703)690-2741

E-mail: warddennis@earthlink.net

Percent members: 39

Itftr

Bret Hyde, R.I.P. Manyhave heard by now that our classmate Bret HYDE passed away in January after a long and courageous battie with A.L.S (Lou Gehrig’s disease). My best memories of Bret are from our time as second lieutenants when he welcomed me to Wright-Pat as my sponsor; I know that the generosity and good humor he showed me then were characteristic ofhis life. Bryan KELCHNER has a moving tribute to Bret in this issue’s Gone But Not Forgotten section.

Reunion Info - Honest! The dates are finally set for our 20th reunion. Mark your calendars for October 10-14. Reunion Central is the Embassy Suites hotel a mile from the South Gate and the formal schedule kicks off with a golf tournament and Prep School open house on Thursday. Friday brings the USAFA open house, memorial service, class photo, and dinner buffet for the whole darn class. Saturday features a class tailgate before the Falcons beat Wyoming and squadron gatherings afterward. Sunday we shake off the hangovers and say goodbye. At this writing, volunteers are still needed to coordinate some of the activities; contact Randy WORRALL (rworrall@mindspring.com) or Jay SANTEE (santee@macol.net), both of whom are doing yeoman’s work getting these festivities together. And keep updated by checking our class website, www.usafa81.com, for which Rich TRENTMAN is the macho honcho.

Speaking of Jay, he sent out an e-mail asking for a CS-35 squadron party coordinator. Karl JAGSTADT immediately sprang into action to volunteer - me. Nice pimp, Karl! Reminds me of when we were three degrees and you signed everyone else up for weekend CQ duty. Karl and wife Dee (HORNBOSTLE) are living outside Atlanta, where he’s a 737 F/O for Delta and she is an Airbus F/O with FedEx. Coaching the youngest of their three kids on the soccer fields Saturday mornings, Karl sees Hank LANE, also coaching his youngest. Karl’s mind is a little addled by age but he’s pretty sure Mike POTKULSKI is in Macon captaining an MD-88 for Delta and has two kids.

More Babies. ‘81ers continue to multiply, despite our advanced age. Con (“Conal the Barbarian”) and Mary BRADY welcomed Georgi Anne in January— their fifth in six years (nothing like lighting the afterburner late in the takeoff roll). Con is toughing it out in Hawaii and is using his long tenure with Aloha Airlines to secure not a left seat but the perfect schedule as a 737 F/O; home in bed each night and lots of time to fly the F-15 with the Hawaii Guard. Con, you are more cunning than we ever believed possible, and that’s a compliment. Really. Sources also tell us that Joe WOOD and Merrie (CRAIG) CRAIG-WOOD (I

don’t think the Checkpoints staff anticipated the modern marriage when they established that name convention) recently welcomed their second daughter, which by my reckoning would make three little WOOD-(CRAIG) CRAIG-WOODs running around down there at Pope.

Someone they might run into is Bill NAPOLITANO, the newly installed commander of the 23rd Operational Support Squadron. His change-of-command was a veritable ‘81 reunion, with Bill taking over from another ‘81er, Mike KULKULSKI, and receiving his command from the very same Joe WOOD, who’s commanding the 23rd Fighter Group. Other '81ers at Pope include Paul MONTGOMERY, with the 2nd Airlift Squadron; Kirk JOHNSON, their chief pilot; Chuck SCHNEIDER, commander of the 74th Fighter Squadron, now deployed to Kuwait; and Alan BABCOCK, 43rd OSS ops officer. John REIDY recently PCSd from Pope to Korea. Now see, that’s a quality update - thanks, Bill.

Bill Napolitano

Joe Wood, who has snatched itfrom Mike "Koko”Kukulski (right). Looking on and thinking, “Jeez, another one I gotta train, is the squadronfirst sergeant.

News From the Rock. Lennie COLEMAN banged out a quick note from Kunsan, where several of our classmates are enduring remote tours. Lennie is the Deputy Ops Group commander and will depart for senior service school at Mun’gumry in May. Pete COSTELLO is the 8th OSS commander and will take his SSS in the genteel halls of the People’s Republic of Harvard this summer - nice duty! Colonel Dan WYMAN is also at the Rock and, according to Lennie, splits his time between commanding the medical group and reminding his classmates that he was the smart one in the bunch. Lennie is looking forward to his stateside return and USAFA football. He expects the Falcons to win more games this fall than “when we helped them catch ‘Falcon Fever.’” By that I think he means more games than they won our entire four years there. Incidentally, the Falcons start the season at home against the national champion Oklahoma Sooners. I’m sure the altitude will doom those flatlanders.

Lennie arrived in Korea from Moody, where ‘81 representation has been extraordinarily high. At one point all three of the fighter squadrons were commanded by 81 ers - the 68th byAndyMORGAN, the 69th byLennie, then Mo BEALE; and the 70th by Steve RUEHL. Andy is headed to AWC and Mo to Kunsan in May, but John EUNICE is the CE squadron commander and Jeff BRALEY is the interim chief at wing plans.

Got a note - well, more of an outline - from Ed KNOX, who’s here in (location unspecified) Northern Virginia, working for a (unspecified) contractor, doing (unspecified). Ed’s wife, Denise, is a blue-suiter working (unspecified) and they occasionally run into other ‘81ers in the area - the Fred MARTINs, the Fred WEISHOFFs, and the Derk WYBENGAs - but it’s unclear where or what any of them are doing. Ed, put some meat on those informational bones next time, willya? Ed is also doing stand-up comedy all over the country whenever possible

I’m sure it won’t be long before Letterman and Leno are in a bidding war for him, so keep an eye on those TV listings.

‘81 Central pretty much describes J-8 at the Pentagon, where Marty FRANCE, Sam ANGELELLA, Leonard HEAVNER and Greg BISCONE are awaiting the arrival ofJim MCKINNEY this spring. Marty confides to me that their big project is laying the conceptual framework for the impending issuance of berets to all Air Force membersvery hush-hush stuff, so let’s not spread this around.

Terry POBST-MARTIN wrote from Idaho, where she’s enjoying an idyllic retirement (at least, that’s what I imagine it must be, when I’m sitting in Beltway traffic). Actually, Terry points out that retired life principally means wearing different clothes to work. Terry says that A.J. BRITSCHGI is now commanding the Strike Eagle squadron at Mountain Home and Ken BYRD ended up in the Springs at Space Command following AWC.

Tony HINEN is about to start War College - in Pakistan. Tony is going there via the Hertz plan - “Did you volunteer?” “Not exactly,” but he, LouAnne, Jeremy and Josh are determined to make an adventure out of it. And what the heck - as a consolation prize, Mother Blue is flocking him to colonel before his departure. Tony is currently the 6th Ops Group deputy commander at MacDill, and his boss is A.J. STEWART.

Bryan FUNKE is at Tyndall but headed to Columbus, MS this spring to be commander of the medical group there - congrats! Bryan spied Dick TUBB’s name on the medical corps 0-6 list and called to congratulate him - turns out Dick

pinned on 18 months ago because he is the vice president’s personal doc and it carries colonel’s rank, sort of like permanent professors at the Zoo. But Dick made colonel the honest way; you gotta believe that anyone who is the VP’s doc these days is earning his pay. Bryan also ran into Rick SPRADLIN, who was spying for Luke during Tyndall’s ORI.

Dave LITTLE managed to make Bill LOVELACE’S retirement ceremony in March. Bill has gone to work as director of operations for Kallman Worldwide, a firm that puts on trade shows and exhibitions. That’s Kallman as in Tom KALLMAN, who is president and CEO. Our confidential sources tell us Bill will be working on the Aviation World’s Fair 2003 in Newport News-Williamsburg, celebrating the 100th anniversary of powered flight (you know, that stuff from Contrails we had to read) and modestly billed as “the most comprehensive aviation event ever held.” Sounds cool - free tickets to the air-conditioned VIP tent for all classmates?

You Betcha. Received an update on Tom FERGUSON, who has been in Minnesota flying for Northwest since 1989, with a hiatus when he was reactivated to fly tankers during the GulfWar. Tom and Roxann (Goetz - ‘82) are raising three daughters, 10, 7, and 6.

JohnnyO! Johnny OLIVARRIA is another ‘81er who loves retired life. Johnny passed on the Air Force’s offer to extend him and retired out of the Special Ops SPO atWright-Pat; he is now a pricinganalystwith NCRin Dayton andvery happy.

Yikes! A nervous glance at my editor reveals that pitiless creature eyeing my word count and sharpening his knife, so prudence says I should close. While I usually never argue with her, this time I say “Down with editor tyrants and their word counts! Let’s stuffthis mag chock full of ‘81 news!” So send me some. AND PHOTOS. And have a great summer.

Jim Ratti

6329 Pheasant Valley Road

Dayton, OH 45424-7100

Home: (937) 236-9306/DSN: 785-9660 X281 rattijm@mindspring.com

http:/ /usafa82.org

Percent members: 37

First off, thanks to all of you who sent Christmas letters. I got a total of seven (not counting my own), and it was a kick reading all of them and seeing what you’re up to these days. You can read them all by going to the website (http:// usafa82.org), and clicking on the “Xmas Letters” button, but here are a few highlights. Chris RUSSICK is retired from the USAF, and lives in Peoria, IL where he took over his father-in-law’s financial management business. He and his family are doing great, and his wife is pregnant, due in late March. Steve VOGT sent a quite clever letter modeled after the Survivor television series. He used his family as the cast, and described a summer vacation to the beach. You’ll have to go to the website and readthe letter to find out who the ultimate survivor was though. Needless to say, his (rather sizeable) brood is doing just fine.

Brian BRANBY sent his annual Zelienople Dispatch “from a town whose name no one but a resident can pronounce,” about 25 miles north of Pittsburgh PA. US Airways pilot Brian, his wife, and three young ‘uns (one of whom is a teenageh) are all doing very well. Scot SHIER’s Christmas letter brought with it some great pictures ofhis quints, who turned five this past January. Life has been very good for them, with lots of news coverage as the kids grow up. The Shiers even got to pass on some sage advice about “instant families” to another southern California couple who had quints in March. You can read all the details (and find links to the Shier’s website) on the ‘82 website.

Dean MILLS fired off his Christmas letter and picture along with the news that he’s destined to be the next 1 st Group AOC at USAFA this coming June. He and his family are currently finishing up a year of school at the Industrial College of the Armed Forces (ICAF) in D.C. He’s already looking forward to parachuting into the football game during our 20th reunion! If you want to be nice to Dean, send him an e-mail to refresh him on some of our old cadet “tricks of the trade” so that he can update his 19-year-old memory. Of course, ifyou don'twant to be nice to him, e-mail the tricks to the Dodo editor...

Eddie Mac McALLISTER’s Christmas missive brought news that he’s the commander of the 374th Ops Support Sq at Yokota. He and his family are enjoying their tour, and have already taken vacations to places like Indonesia, Alaska, Hawaii, China, Korea, and Singapore. The children are in Japanese schools, and have picked up the language like pros. My last Christmas letter was from Sharon (VAUGHAN) CRONIN. She’s enjoying life in Massachusetts, now that their European tour (Brussels, I believe it was) is over. Her husband (Tom) retired but is working at Hanscom (1+ hour commute!) on the CAESAR program as an employee of ACS Defense.

In other news, Bob NISSEN wrote a quick note from USAFA, where he’s the commander of the 557th FlyingTraining Squadron. All of us who went off to pilot training will remember the days at the 557th frozen in fear during standup EPs (emergency procedures). Bob and I had a volley of e-mails back and forth as he described a number of substantial changes that have taken place there since we graduated. You’ll recall that the flying program at USAFA went through some rough times as the T-3 program unraveled. My personal view is that the airplane was fine we in the Air Force simply had a training issue with the instructors. No matter what though, it sounds like they’ve come up with a good solution, and Bob “has the stick” to make it work. The 557th transitioned back to USAFA effective 1 Oct last year, and they use the USAFA aero club and eight other civilian training centers between Denver and C-Springs to provide 50 hours of training to pilot-qualified cadets. The students even score a private license out of the deal, and the Academy saves a boatload of money in the process. There’s also a program for Nav-qualified cadets called Navigator Introductory Flight Training (NIFT, or “nifty” for short) which gives them formal ground school and 20 hours

(center) receives his squadron command from

of flying time. Although all of this training is largely performed off site, the goal is to bring it back to USAFA via a civilian contractor, with 557th FTS oversight (much like Hondo was run back in our days).

Others in our ranks are squadron commanders now as well. Dan CIECHANOWSKI dropped a quick e-mail to tell me that he took command of the 564th Missile Squadron at Malmstrom AFB MT in July. And Carl ZIMMERMAN updated me on his e-mail address as he finished up the first year of his tour as the 423 rd Air Base Wing Commander/Installation Commander for RAF Molesworth, RAF Alconbury, and RAF Upwood.

Jim and Mary PILLAR are proud parents (for the fourth time) as of 1 March, following the arrival of Matthew Conrad Samuel Ortega Pillar. At 20 V2 inches and 8 Vi pounds, he’s only slightiy longer than his name!

Jim ALEXANDER sent his first class news update in 19 years, and gave me all the standard “no excuse sir” excuses: "I had a flat tire; I left my car keys in my other pants; I didn’t have correct change for the bus; my dog ate my update; I had amnesia; I overslept my combat nap; there was an earthquake; a terrible flood.” Even with all that difficulty in his life, Jim sounds pretty darned good. He’s an MD-80 captain for American in Ft. Worth, and has been improving his hangar at Hicks airfield in anticipation of buying a light aerobatic aircraft this summer. His son is taking flying lessons, and my guess is that Jim feels it’s safer for his son to turn an airplane upside down than to practice acrobatic maneuvers in the family mini-van. The best part of his e-mail was links to a couple of great pictures from our cadet days. One shows Jim, Glenn PAYNE, and Steve VISLISEL looking like the quintessential lab-coated scientist geeks, assessing the data collected during their Estes rocket (er, I mean developmental ICBM) test launch during Astro 101. The other is of a group of classmates carrying out an unauthorized, well after-hours, Firstie party in their 20th Sq AOC’s office. My favorite part is the hand engraved rosewood plaque (bought with ‘81’s squadron slush fund money), which reads, “Patriotism cannot be minimized!” Jim says he and the other Tough Twenty Trolls are still trying to figure out what it meant. At any rate, you can visit the website and see these pictures for yourself. Click on the “Updates” button, then choose the Jan-Mar 2001 button on the Class News Updates page which appears. Then click on Jim’s name, and you’ll see links to the pictures. Vintage stuff!

My last bit of news is from Sue (GRANT) GUNNING, who was lamenting the deadlines she’s facing with her publisher two full novels and one novella due by December. She wanted to announce the release of her latest book, The Star King, which is available through Amazon.com, several other online retailers, and most bookstores. Sue says it’s a blend of Star Wars and romance, and should appeal to “anyone who likes Friday night movies with popcorn in other words, it’s fun!” There are links to her websites and to portions of the book itself on the ‘82 website. Click on the “Updates” button, then choose the Jan-Mar 2001 button on the Class News Updates page which appears. Then click on Sue’s name. In closing, I’d like to editorialize a bit. When we ordered our class rings those many years ago, I chose “The Sky is Not the Limit” for my inscription. I did so because I felt (and still do feel) that there would inevitably be a separate Space Force one of these days. The analogies to the separation of the Air Force from the Army after World War II are just too striking! In the past 10 years or so, we’ve begun to hear a few rumbles about the need (or lack of need!) for a new Service to best serve the needs of the space community and our national interests, and the polarization has begun. While the corporate USAF position espoused by Gen Ryan and Mr. Peters is that we don’t need a new Service, a recent Congressional panel chaired by Donald Rumsfeld makes the case that we should stand up a ‘Space Corps” (much like the Army Air Corps) within the next 6-10 years, and that nothing should be done in the meantime to “preclude eventual evolution toward a Space Department, if that proves desirable.”

I’m considering adding a section to our class website which would have links to published articles and editorials on both sides of this issue, and I may even add a section where people could post their own comments. I’d be interested in hearing from you ifthis “separate Service” idea touches a nerve, and to hear what you think about adding a section to the website to foment discussion. Who knows one ofyou may become the next Billy Mitchell! Until next time, Be Safe!

Jon Duresky

5342 Western Plains Ave.

Abilene, TX 79606

Home: (915) 698-7850/DSN: 461-4147

Home: DureskyJB@aol.com

Office Jon.Duresky@Dyess.af.mil

Percent members: 38

Classmates, Take this short quiz. Answer “Yes” or “No.”

A. I bought a fancy new (bright red sports) car within the past 12 months.

B. I went on an exotic vacation within the past 12 months.

C. I “upgraded” to a larger pants/suit/dress size since my last birthday.

D. I took up a new “dangerous” sport.

E. My spouse and I had a baby.

F. I am/was a Squadron (Group/Wing) Commander, responsible for the well being of countless impressionable troops.

G. I upgraded to an airline captain, and can finally land the plane anytime I want.

If you answered “Yes” even one time, Congratulations! You are a proud memher of the “mid-life crisis club,” the population ofwhich is growing almost as fast as our collective 40-something waistlines. Don’t fret; you’re in excellent company. Sit a spell with me. This is my annual 15 minutes of fame, as I regale you with tales of our classmates, as we conquer the world, one rank at a time, and fight off those mid-life and career blues.

It is not often that I anoint myself as The Chosen One, but tonight I will. I will elect myself, with no recount, the president of the Mid-Life Crisis Club, on the basis of having five ‘Yes” answers to the above quiz. Reference the cool car picture, all 325 horses of Camaro Super Sport. My family just had to be in the picture, too! Reference my new hobby, scuba diving, accomplished on my exotic Christmas vacation to Cozumel. Can you say "90 feet deep on Christmas Day?” I can, and we were! Now for my fourth and fifth “Yes” answers, you’lljust have to read along. So if any of you presidential wannabees think you can top me for having a crisis, I say, “Just bring it, dude. Just bring it!”

Jon, Brenda, Jeffrey, and Kendal Duresky, styling in Mid-Life-Crisis Wheels. I need someone to serve as my #2 man, my vice-president. Pat FROST, you get the job, by virtue of also having five ‘Yes” answers. This year VP Pat bought a fancy new truck, went on a skiing vacation to the exotic locale of Keystone, CO, tried (unsuccessfully) to snowboard at same locale, and had a German schnitzel and beer-induced expanded waistline, thanks to a two-month rotation to Ramstein. I am pleased to report that the waisdine was rapidly reduced, after he spent another seven weeks at the Body by PSAB fitness club. That is Prince Sultan Air Base, Saudi Arabia, in the heat of the summer. He replaced me as the C130 squadron commander in Saudi Arabia, which meant that he had his hands full cleaning up the mess I left him. Pat is now an ops officer at Dyess AFB, scaring everyone with his kind and gende nature.

Speaking of PSAB, the place was overrun with ‘83ers this summer. I spent 63 lovely days there, made tolerable by having some buds around. Greg “Mozam” DZOBA and I shared the same day room and even had to clean it for SAMIs. No kidding. USAFA training paying off, 20 years later. The Mozam was chief of F-16 airspace, quite a job, considering we are still at war in the Gulf, the public just doesn’t know it. Mike BARTLEY and Jeff KENDAL were at PSAB, too. F-15andF16 (mid-life crisis club) squadron commanders. Good guys, though. Fighterjocks, and they even pretended to be friends with me, a Herk-driving airlifter. Tom JAEGER, a KC-135 IP, was there to support heavy drivers, as we enjoyed the best beverages Saudi had to offer: bottled water 24 hours a day. Tom is stationed at McConnell, and when he is not deployed to sunny locales, sees Kyle SMITH, Chuck LEE, and Todd BOESDORFER around his base. I guess he also sees his wife and three sons occasionally, but with the AF TDY, nothing is certain. I can’t remember the rest of the ‘83ers who spent their summer in Saudi, but that is to be expected. The sun fried all of our brains.

Some people never get tired of going to college. Air War College, that is. Billy “Scales” WALKER and Gary HARENCAK will both be heading to LA (lower Alabama, Maxwell AFB) this August, becoming students at the AF’s senior service school, training factory for generals-to-be. They’re both (mid-life crisis club) squadron commanders right now, Billy leads the 1 st Heli at Andrews AFB, and Gary leads the 28th Bomber Sq, here at Dyess. Gary also revealed to me this very day that he’s buying a Corvette. He told me that in confidence, but I had my fingers crossed when I said his (crisis) secret was safe with me!

Airline pilots can be in the Crisis Club, too. (No, not the crisis of the Dow and NASDAC taking a tumble.) They become captains, and realize that they are old. Happened to Bob ULICH, Robert GREGOR, and Jerry VARNER. Lots of others, too, but they didn’t write me. I bet a few of them took cool vacations and bought exotic cars, too. Welcome to the Club, boys and girls!

Jerry Varner, after having his teeth removedfor his 40th birthday, refuses to ever smile again.

I ran into Jim OGDEN at Ramstein last fall. He was the ops officer for his deployed C-130 squadron. He had just rolled into town, so his belly had not yet expanded from German beer and brauts. He showed me an interesting home-

made graphic, comparing USAFA GPAs with current jobs held, cross-referenced to a number of classmates. What we determined: heaven help the AF if it lets dumb bunnies like us have the keys to the shop.

On the “be fruitful and multiply” front, Mitch and Liz DELAROSA had an addition to the family. Trying to recapture lost youth, they answered “Yes” to question E above, bringing their total clan to six. Mitch is still active duty, currently hanging his hat at Eglin AFB, Florida.

The Mitch DeLaRosa Clan

The COMPAGNOs are always good for a paragraph or two. This year they check in from Columbus AFB, MS, having departed Scott AFB last fall. Mavis (THORPE) is a T-l instructor, enjoying flying the line with students thirsting for knowledge. Vince is the busy one: international Delta 767 pilot, visiting Europe and South America, an Academy liaison officer (his new “dangerous sport”), and in keeping with the "whole person” concept, taking ACSC by correspondence! Even Reservists have to jump through hoops. Vince and Mavis took an exotic vacation, too. They played cowpeople at a dude ranch in the Colorado mountains. No word if they plan on becoming (mid-life crisis) ranchers after Mavis pins on her first star. I’ll let you know in a few years.

Ifyou are not on Eli POWELL’s holiday letter mailinglist, you do not knowwhat you are missing. He is the chief of orthopedic surgery at USAFA, and the chief doc for Falcon sports, especially football. His tales of the interaction of his kids with Coach Fisher DeBerry, as well as his accounts ofdailylife in the Powell household in Monument, CO, right outside the North Gate, made my ample bellyjiggle with laughter. His family (mid-life crisis) exotic vacation: to San Jose, CA, where our Fighting Falcons won the Silicon Valley Bowl. His wife, Judy, was just thrilled to spend most of their holiday in a hotel around a football team, instead of on their planned ski vacation to exotic Winter Park. I would guess that Eli had some making up to do. Judy also took up the new “dangerous” sport in the family, playing in a soccer league with 20-year-olds, and generaRy whipping them soundly. I’m using this article as an “Open Letter to Eli.” Put all of your classmates on your mailing list! Spend that doctor’s board-certified specialty pay on stamps! Don’t deprive anyone of your wit! The world will be a much better place with your literary talents, wit, and optimism spread around. Really!

Chris MOULTON is probably looking for his name about now, hoping not to be included in my Crisis Club. Sorry, pal. You bought a huge new SUV, you’re a squadron commander (61 st AS at Little Rock), leaving you less time to work out, and more mandatory lunches to attend. Can you say "Waist size 36 uniform pants, please,” as you make a trip to clothing sales? I count at least three ‘Yes” answers, not including vacations or sports. You’re a charter member ofthe Club. Just don’t get upset and send your 2nd degree blackbelt son down to Abilene to setde the score. Getting whupped by a 16-year«-old would make my crisis even worse...

I have made a few jokes as I’ve told you about some of our classmates, but now I want to be serious for a while. We need to send a “Thank you, God” prayer to the Man Upstairs for helping, and continuing to help Jeff and Ellen (NELSON, Class of ‘84) FIEBIG through some difficult times. While on an exotic family (midlife crisis) vacation to Maui last year, Jeff lost a one-on-one battle with a monstrous wave. He was slammed viscously into the sand. He was semi-paralyzed, and had to wear a neck brace for a while. The good news is that he is fully recovered, back at work, (United Airlines captain, and Reserve frocked 0-6, the Support Group CC at Luke AFB looks like he has a lot of “Yes” answers, too!) and back in the gym full time. Ellen also went through difficult times, battling a serious illness. Few women exist in this world who have a better physical, mental, and emotional makeup than Ellen. Add that to the support her circle of family and friends gave her, and she beat the illness, but still needs our prayers daily. She’s also back in the gym with Jeff. We are thankful that they successfullyweathered a bad storm. Monument, CO real estate agents are thankful, too. Jeff and Ellen built a huge house on 2.5 acres, almost within hearing distance of doolies calling minutes for the Noon Meal Formation. Nostalgia!! Jeff has houses all over the world. You’ve heard of Trump Towers? “Bigsville” will soon be equally as famous! Jeff also reports that Dave WRIGHT has retired and joined The Dark Side: he started United Airlines training this spring, wants to be domiciled in Denver, buy a house in Monument with Jeff and Eli Powell, then the three of them can take turns calling minutes.

Now for news from the Scott AFB Charm School, aka the AMC Squadron Commander’s introductory course. Bill SPACY in attendance. He is the OSS/CC here at Dyess. We work in the same building (I am blessed with the wonderful job of the group deputy commander for Inspections. I would much rather be flying the line like the youngsters, but I am not having a crisis!) and see each other daily. Bill recently spent two weeks at Scott, learning how to be a good com

mander. Others in his class are: Bill CHANGOSE and John ZAZWORSKY, both C17 squadron/CCs at Charleston; and Tracy COLBURN, taking over the 1 st Heli at Andrews. As I perused the AETC command list the other day, I saw BRISBON, Harris Leonard. The Bris, influencing young minds. That almost sounds like a bumper sticker one might see on the back of a ‘60s-eraVW van. A final word from Bill SPACY: he says that Norm BROZENICK is heading to Stanford Univ for a fellowship of some sort. We’ll probably see him in that VW van with the bumper sticker pretty soon. Oh, lest I forget. Bill SPACY bought himself a fancy new car, too. A Beemer, which he parks in his Sq/CC parking slot. Very (mid-life crisis) cool.

Ray “RDQ” BLUST is worried about his place in history. It seems that a previous listing of AOG members did not list him as a member. He was up day and night wondering if future history books would look upon this kindly and if a revisionist historical scholar would see and correct the oversight. Not to worry, Big Guy. I hereby state for the record that Ray is a life member of the AOG. He challenges us who are not life members to match him, and not merely say, “No excuse, Sir!” And speaking of Big Guy, Ray had a (mid-life crisis) knee operation last year. His wife, Julie, calls it “routine maintenance on a 41-year-old.” I think differendy. Face it, how much pounding can a knee take? Ray, poor guy, suffers from accumulated macrotrauma to the knee. His knee has since recovered, but for how long is it safe? Poor, suffering Ray and Julie...

Ray sent along this great picture of a plethora of liaison officers on an annual exotic (mid-life crisis) vacation to where else? Colorado Springs and the USAFA! The eclectic gang is about half and half airline pilots and entrepreneurs, engaged in a wide variety of activities, of which some might even be legal. I, however, prefer to look upon this aging group as my Presidential Cabinet for the Mid-Life Crisis Club. Set policy, plan vacations, keep me from dispensing too many questionable pardons. Pictured: Greg LLOYD and wife, Linda, Kevin CANNON, Mike MORGAN, Phil HAMM, Alonso “Athens 2004” BABERS, Kevin “I have a blister from too much golf’ CARRENO, Mark ABBOTT, and Glenn SEITCHEK.

LOs returning to the Womb: On vacation to Colorado Springs. Pass In Review! My 15 minutes offame are up for another year. I hope everyone enjoyed this update. Ifyou did, e-mail me and then follow up with a moneygram (reference earlier car picture and vacation story my money tree is also a victim of the west Texas drought). In any case, keep the info coming. If you want something included, send it to me, Ray, Dave Rufiley, or the AOG, and we will see that your life story reaches our millions of faithful readers all over the world. Remember my mantra. Make backup files. Check gear down. Check six. And now let’s add, “Play safe, hard, and healthy.” Happy Birthday and many more.

Mike Jensen

12035 Milam Road Colorado Springs, CO 80908 (719) 338-3570

E-mail: jens@usafa.com

Home page: www.usafa.net/1984

WPercent members: 30 i|P

Thanks for the updates! Spring Break is about to hit the Rockies, and I am ready. Can you believe it was about 20 years ago when we were going on Spring Break after enduring a tortuous “Hell Week”? Now it is the “nasty nano-second” or some related “feel-good approach” to development. Ah, those were the days! I hope each and every one of you is doing well. This football season promises to be an exciting one, as the Falcons take on the defending National Champion Oklahoma Sooners on Parents’Weekend. I hope you have the opportunity to see it. Falcon Stadium will be packed! Also for those who were at the last Navy game at Annapolis, you saw a great game and had a great tailgate before and after. I hope we get another great turnout at the pre and post game tailgate this year. Please keep me updated on any activities you have in your area as they relate to AFA.

Dan BEHNE checked in. He has been at the NRO the last four years and will be at its mission partner, NIMA, the next four total of eight years in the D.C. area, (so we should see him at the Navy Game!) He and his wife, Anne, have four children. They all play basketball, baseball, soccer, piano, et al and like all of us, the kids’ schedules keep everyone moving. Paul KELLNER is still at Holloman AFB flying the F-117, waiting for the AFPC gurus to decide his next assignment. He is currendy the OSS Life Support officer. Last summer (June 2000), he did get to do an air show with the F-117 at Mildenhall AB, England and in Berlin, Germany. His son Scott has bridged over to Boy Scouts recently and earned his arrow of light award. Another son, John, is finishing kindergarten. His wife, Bobbie, continues to keep things running at home while practicing law in Alamogordo and

teaching at the local branch of NMSU. Ben COFFEY is also there. Fie is the 746 Test Squadron commander. They are both working on AirWar College and looking forward to being finished soon. Paul has also spoken to John O’HAIR who is at PatrickAFB, FL, and John BAKER, who is at RandolphAFB, TX. Jerry DAVIDSON has been in Charleston SC for close to seven years now. Went to CHS in ’93 as Initial Cadre C-17 and has been doing it ever since. He got off active duty May ’98 at the 14-year point and walked about 100 yards to the C-17 associate Reserve wing. He is also working for Northwest Airlines. Married to Kari, and they have two of the busiest, and outstanding young kids, Garrett-8, and Grant-4, not to mention Pepper (the dog), Blaze (the fire-bellied toad), Red (the fish), and other lizards, toads, and insects that somehow find temporary homes in their house. Jack FORSYTHE finally had something to report! He is at Shaw AFB, flying the mightyViper (Block 50), and has recently been named the operations officer of the 79FS (Tigers). Needless to say, he is stoked! He also ran into Bruce ELLWEIN at the Senior Leader Maintenance Course at Langley. He told me he and family are doing great. He is off to F-15 RTU in May and then to Kadena AB, Japan this summer. Ray MEINHART is currently at the State Department in the Pol-Mil Bureau, dealing with Middle East regional security issues as they relate to arms transfers. Been in D.C. now three years. The first two and a half were at Air Force International Affairs (SAF/IA) developing international agreements to do armaments cooperation with our allies. He and his wife, Ellen, have two girls, Lauren (4) and Brooke (1). The photo is of his Lt Col promotion ceremony, officiated by Lt Gen Tome Walters, the director of the Defense Security Cooperation Agency. The first

has Gen Walters, his mom, Ray, his wife, his sister, and daughters.

Rob HEMKER, long-time reader, first time writer, sent in an update! He graduated out of CS-17, Econ major, and water polo player. After graduation, he went into Acquisition and worked at an Air Force plant representative office (they no longer exist) at Hughes Aircraft Company in Los Angeles and picked up an MBA while in L.A. After working in that extremely civilian environment, he decided to volunteer for a base-level assignment to see what the real AF was like. He worked as a Cost & Management Analysis chief at Grand Forks, ND for two years. He got out at the end of 1989; by fate ended up in the recruiting business in Houston. Their specialty is junior officers who want to get on the executive development path in business. Married in early 1985 to Rebecca, an accountant from Colorado Springs who he met while at the Academy. They have a 14-year-old daughter (that just cruised through 5' 10") and 12-year-old son who dreams of attending USAFA and flying jets. He said Ed POGUE is at UPS and Gerry Veldhuizen builds custom homes. He also ran into Dave PHIFER, on an interview board for high school kids trying to get into the academies.

Dave “Moon” MULLINS finally got his e-mail through, and was kind enough to give us a great list of updates. He is currently working at the Pentagon (working in OSD SO/LIC special ops policy). Tom “Dingo” DOYNE is also there, working on the Air Staff in XOXS (Strategy), along with Marianne IDZI-EGAN. Steve ALDERFER is currendy at Mildenhall in the 67th SOS (MC-130P). Mike TORINO is flying C-130s out of Litde Rock. Don GRESHAM finished up at HQ USSOCOM in Tampa last year, and is flying C-5s out ofDover again. Mark MILLER is at Andrews AFB flying Gulfstreams in the 89th AW. Kermit GETZ is at Charleston AFB flying C- 17s. David GOODWILL is doing the same out of McChord AFB. Wayne POST is stationed in Washington and is trying to stay longer than the four years he already has been there. Scott VANGORDER is stationed there also working at DIA HQ. Mike CLOSE lives in the D.C. area and flies for FEDEX. Marty SHANS is flying F-15s out of Tyndall. Alan BRIDGES is flying MH-53s out of Kirtland AFB, NM. Doug FULLER left the Pentagon last year, and is flying B-52s out of Barksdale AFB. David BROWN, who cross-commissioned to the Army at graduation, is now a Ml Abrams battalion commander in Georgia at Ft Stewart. Chris ROWZEE is still the Log Planner for the 189th AW in the Arkansas Air Guard here in Little Rock. Been there since Jan 99. Pat RYAN moved to Northwest Florida near Eglin AFB last June. He is no longer flying in the Coonass Militia and is about to start an IMA Reserve job at the Pentagon in SAF/IA (Secretary of the AF/ International Affairs). Still has one child (Alia, 2 1/2 years, growing like a weed) and one wife. (Congrats Pat!) He also still finds time to fly for United out of Miami on the 767. Ed LORENZINI and his wife, Elizabeth, and the kids (four) have been at Eglin AFB since Jul 00. He is the chief of the Commander’s Action Group for the Air Armament Center, which keeps him very busy. They are enjoying the beaches on the Gulf Coast and all the nice weather, but are still missing Colorado Springs and all of their friends there.

Liz (BECK) DELAROSA and her husband (’83) have run into Jamie DONALD who is also stationed at Hurlburt (flying helicopters) and has four kids. They have kids on the swim team and we go to the same church. Warren CLARK is out

in Southern California for the past year. He has been a district manager for Circuit City for the past seven years. He and wife, Crystal, have two and a halfkids... they are expecting another in Sept. He spoke with Doi HECKLER who opened his third Thai restaurant in Houston. Randy BRANDENBURG and family are living outside of Boston and are doing great.

Julia PHIFER and her two children (Cassandra and Michael) live in the D.C. area and have maintained contact with several ’84 grads who have been in the area. Andrea CLARK took a new position with FedEx at their headquarters in Memphis, TN. Bettina HAMILTON (PHANORD) moved with her husband, C.L. HAMILTON, and two children (Tess and Sinclaire) to Miami, FL to pursue a doctoral degree. C.L. continues to fly the friendly skies with United.

And in conclusion: I look forward to seeing you in the future. Ifyouareeverin the area, please feel free to give me a call. Go FALCONS NOONER the SOONERS! Jens

Quintel Williams

6410 Katherine Ann Lane

Springfield, VA 22150

E-mail: USAFA1985@aol.com

Percent members: 37

wLet’s start offwith some great news! Congratulations to all of our 180 or so (by my scrub, using the 2000 Register of Graduates and the official promotion list posted on-line) new lieutenant colonel selects! Additionally, Jackie CHARSUAGUA, our former class scribe, made the Communications Squadron Commander’s list for 2001.

Good news kept coming in for the Williams family though. Our first and only child, Kristen Renee Williams, was born March 5, 2001 at the National Naval Medical Center in Bethesda, MD one week before the deadline for these Checkpoints inputs were due. Of course, I ran out to get our film developed as quickly as possible so that I could scan a picture into my computer and attach it to this article. We thank God for finally answering our prayers for a child.

I saw Doug BURNS at our XO Holiday Hall party in the Pentagon in December. Like me, Doug and his son Andrew were enjoying some holiday munchies. I saw Jon SIMS at our XOI Holiday Party at the Fort Belvior, VA Officers Club in Decernber picture attached.

Speaking of the holidays, I got a few Christmas cards. I heard from the LAMBERTs who are in Tampa, FL (see next photo), the RANDOLPHS (at Altus AFB, OK) and the CHARSAGUAs (at Offutt AFB, NE).

After the holidays, I saw Pat STONEHAM, Mike ULISSE and Frank GALLAGHER at a meeting at the National Security Space Architect (NSSA) office in January. Pat and Mike work at the NSSA but Frank was TDY from Langley AFB, VA where assigned to the AC2ISRC working future space requirements issues. Frank married Cammy Meyers last September 1999. Prior to the Center, Frank spent three years at Nellis as an instructor and DO at the Weapons School Space Division. Frank said Kevin CLARK is still at the Weapons School as the DO for the Intelligence Division.

As promised at the end of the last Checkpoints (Winter 2001) article, here’s the rest of the scoop that Digger WELLS dug up for us.

From Tim HEALY: “Four, is it really four Christmas cards I owe you, well that’s what you get for associating with such a pathetic person such as myself! Your update is great; justreading some ofthose names brought back some great memories. You had it right, I am at the Weapons School at Nellis with “Cobra”

photo

Ray Meinhart pins on 0-5.

Quintel holding Kristen, and Renee Williams.

Jon Sims and Quintel Williams

The Lambertfamily,from left: Keith, Keitha, Faye and Marcus. HARRIGIAN. I really lucked out. Although not as bizarre as a C-130 to F-lll transition, I have been jumping around a little. I was initial cadre for the HH-60 Division at the Weapons School back in ‘93-’96. In the summer of‘96 got picked up for test pilot school, so I went to Vance for nine months ofT-37 and T-38 flying and then a year ofNaval TPS at Pax River, then a little over a year test flying theV22 Osprey, then got offered the command of the HH-60 Division back at Nellis in Aug 99, where I still am. My head is spinning just thinking about the last few moves. Kris and I are extremely happy: two kids, Erin (9), Connor (7), a dog and a cat. I am a ballet “mom” and soccer dad on the weekends. Life is great!!! I have no idea where I will go next and I could <not> care less!! I have the greatest family, the best job I will ever have in the AF, and Vegas doesn’t suck. So, it is pretty much all bad news from here!

"The Weapons School and Nellis are great because we get to see so many folks come through. Some more folks to add to your list, Costa “Chachi” TZAVARAS is here, he is still flyingVipers, was the DO for the thunderchickens (ifonly all those adoring children knew what I know about him!), now is chief of stan/eval and flies with the aggressors). I saw Chris FUNK about eight months ago; he is still flyingVipers, but I can’t remember where. Also, about a year ago Mike MASUCCI and Dave FEDORS were still test pilots at Edwards, teaching at TPS and flying everything. Tommy HERNDON is on the PACAF staff and has been continuously overseas since flight school, in case any of you thought he had traveled to Mars. Dick FISH has three kids and is on the staff at SOCOM in Tampa. Kyle CUNNINGHAM has an acquisition job at Naval Air Systems command at Pax River buying V-22 simulators. I hope you’re doing great, keep those Christmas cards coming.”

A couple of footnotes: Stan COLGATE started with Delta about four months ago, but I don’t know where he is stationed, and Paul JEFFRIES had two of his cars cleaned by Bob PICKRELL. Bob reported the “finding” to me. Paul owns his own computer type business.

Mike FOSTER writes: “Hi Quintel, just a note to let you know that I gready appredate all the effort you put into being our class scribe. The first thing I read when I get Checkpoints is your class newsletter. Thanks again. Thought I would pass on what information I know about our classmates. Myself: PCSd to Fairchild from US STRATCOM in July, currendy 97th Air Refueling Squadron Operations Officer. Other classmates here are Dave ‘Doc’ ELLIS, 96th Air Refueling Squadron operations officer or soon to be, just PCSd from Marine Corps Command and Staff College. Don COMI, 92nd Operations Support Squadron assistant operations officer, just PCSd from US EUCOM. If I were a betting man, Don will be an operations officer soon. Curt HENRY will be here soon, PCSing from the Air Staff, but I am not sure what squadron he will be going to. We are all here as KC135 pilots trying to get used to life without navigators. Hopefully by the time you get this into a Checkpoints issue a lot of us will be done with sweating the upcoming promotion board. Good luck and thanks again.”

Danny TOPP wrote. “Hi All. I volunteered to be the class rep for the Rampart Range Chapter of the AOG. Right now I am trying to get a current list of all of us on the Front Range. Ifyou are no longer in the area (this includes the whole state as far as I am concerned) let me know and I will take you off the mailing list. If you are in the area but don’t want to be bothered or if you don’t want your personal information on the chapter’s grad list let me know and I will take you off the list. If you know anyone that is in the area but not on the list, write to them and have them drop me a line. I am not doing this because I want to sell you a car, house or Amway. I thought it would be nice if we could get together more and the local chapter ofthe AOG is one way to do it. There are over 40 of us in the area that I know about. Even ifyou don’t want to join the AOG or local chapter, I think it would be great if we could get together on our own. I am not a big football fan so I would like to get together at something other than a football game. We could go to a hockey or basketball game if that is what we prefer to do. We could get together at someone’s house and swap stories about where we have been and what have we been doing. Take care, Danny.”

Well, that’s all for now. Take care—Quintel.

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND

CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED. CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

Bob Colella

324 Strickland Circle Montgomery, AL 36115 (334) 396-6776

E-mail: rcolella@member.afa.org

Percent members: 32

Greetings from SAAS, I am taking a break from writing my thesis. I did manage to organize a photo shoot for all the ‘86ers at Maxwell going to SAAS or ACSC. Not everyone showed up Rob GIVENS is sending out the Form 10s for the noshows but here is the list of folks who are currendy at ACSC who could potendaily be in the photo. Have fun trying to find them!

ACSC: Merrill ARMSTRONG, Fred BACON, Tom BAILEY, Seth BEAUBIEN, Mark BEIERLE, Ernie BENAVIDES, Dean BRIDGER, Greg CAYON, Dondi COSTIN, Ed DENHOLM, Rex GIBSON, Harold HUGULEY, Andrew INGRAM, Austin JAMESON, Marty “McFly” MACNABB, Mike MARES, John MCDEVITT, Dan NORTON, Terry ORNER, Stella RENNER (GROOM), Todd SCOTT, Jeff SMITH, Dan SNY, Eric STEWART, Tom SZVETECZ, Khanh TRAN, Roger VINCENT - Tom RUBY-ACSC Staff

SAAS (Note the dark sunglasses no exposure to sunlight): Eric BEENE, Bob COLELLA, Fred GAUDLIR Rob GIVENS, Frank ROSSI

There was one ‘85 guy in the photo, see ifyou can find him kind of a Where's Waldo thing it’s either James CVANCARA, ‘85, or Stephen MASTERS, ‘85.

Some things never change: When I sent out an e-mail for a class photo, I got the following from Khanh TRAN: Dear Bob, what is the “UOD?” - I sent Skip HINMAN ‘88 over to ACSC to call minutes. As you can see from the photo, Khanh showed up dressed like everyone else.

Two of our classmates are staying for SAAS next year—Jeff SMITH and Stella (GROOM) RENNER good luck and good reading. One classmate, Jeff SWEGAL, is going to Leavenworth to attend SAMS good luck to him as well I can only imagine what Kansas will be like when Jeff leaves.

The latest Lt Col Board results just hit the street. Here are the folks who got picked up early. Congrats to all:

+ Janet AUGUSTINE (KISNER), Robert BROWN, Gordon CAMPBELL, Tom FREESE, + JeffGUSTAFSON’ + Daryl HAUCK (former Roadrunner roommate), Jeff HUPY, Win IDLE, Brian OCONNOR Stella RENNER (GROOM), + Evan THOMAS, and + William THOMAS JR. (A indicates an AOG life member, a + indicates a yearly member, a blank means it is time to for some 0-5-selects to join the AOG)

I just got back from a conference in D.C. that was mostly to look at my new desk at Checkmate (that is in the Pentagon for all you Alpha Geek/86 Flight Risks who are no longer in the military not that I am looking down on all the 404s running the dot.coms out there). At the conference I ran into Todd “Sledge” HARMER, T. BEAGLE, and Pam (REDDICK) BERGESON (I boxed her husband, Tom ’85; he kicked my dot.com). They all work in Checkmate as well. Mike PANARISI was also at the conference; he is at Ramstein as the chief of Strategy. I also ran into Wade THOMPSON ‘85 working in the cellar at the Pentagon. (I fought him in formation at UPT; he kicked my dot.com.)

I received the following letter from Yolandea WOOD (I fought her in Judo CJass; she kicked my Dot.com), “I am still up north at Grand Forks. I am chief, Wing Operations Plans. The latest change in my life is that I became a foster care provider. Right now I have my first child, a 14-year-old girl. We have been “family” for three weeks. It has been going okay. Keeping busy- quilting, working out, rushing home to cook dinner and supervise homework, and occasionally I get to fly.

Next up I heard from Pete BAMPTON. “I am flying out of ATL on the MD 88. (This is all some lingo that the Scribe doesn’t understand.) My sad story is as follows. I decided to turn down the bonus in ‘95 and got out. I did construction for a while and then got hired byValujet. They had the crash and I got furloughed. I then flew corporate for a coal company. Finally, I got hired by Delta in August of ‘97.1 am acting the part of a bachelor all over again.”

Mike CLARK passed on an address change: mike.clark@mindspring.com He and family are at Andrews AFB flying the Gulfstream in the 99 Airlift Squadron Here are the ACSC updates: First up: Merrill ARMSTRONG. A quick catch-up since graduation... I went off to Laughlin AFB for UPT, graduating in Sep ‘87. I was awarded a C-14IB assignment to McGuire AFB. I was ecstatic about this assignment since I wanted to see the world and be close to my home, Dover DE (but not so close that I was stationed in my hometown!). I had a great time at McGoo and was glad to serve with several USAFA grads, most notably Tony TILLMAN, my bachelor-days roommate at McGuire; Mike MEADER, Hank JERONIMUS, Greg CAYON, Joe JOSE, Mike LOGRAND (Mike-Lo), and George Boo-Boo’ BUEMILLER to name a few. While there I met a beautiful lady from Philadelphia named Jackie, a social worker. We dated then married and, before leaving McGuire, had a child, a masculine child, we named Gregory (my MiniMe... He completes me!). After flying the Starlizard for almost seven years I moved

on to AMC HQ at Scott where I was an airlift planner and Conference Center chief (AV-boy). This was a great assignment as we met some new friends and reacquainted ourselves with old friends. Ken KIRK and Steve SCHLUMPBERGER were there with me as well as Carol (TRAVIS) VELDHUIZEN and Tim ROBINSON. Ken, Schlumpy and I went off to Travis AFB and the mighty KC-10. I did have enough time at home to make another Armstrong. This time we had a beautiful baby girl, Rebekah. She’s been a Daddy’s girl from day one. After four years we were tapped to move on to Maxwell AFB and ACSC. We have enjoyed our time here in school, four-hour days, weekend golf dates with my wife, trips to Disney World and New Orleans (Mardi Gras!). I don’t know how I’m going to adjust to the real AF in July! We’re off to Scott AFB again and TRANSCOM where I’ll be a Joint Mobility Operations planner. Home email: Jazzarmstr@aol.com

From left are Jackie (Momma), Rebekah, (Princess), Fred (Daddy), and Gregory (Man-child).

Dondi COSTIN shot me a line to tell me that a classmate, Jim KELLEY, was piloting a Space Shuttle mission I think as I write this, they are trying to get the trash all packed so they can come home. So congrats to Jim for following in Carol BOBKO’S ’59 footsteps (stick that in your trivia pipe and smoke it)

Tom MENKER-SAWS and L.T. RUSS-SAMS were here for a war game last week. Tom looks like a recruiting poster, L.T. looks like... well he looks like LT, and he is off to Davis-Monthan to work for SOUTHCOM.

Assignment news: Harold HUGULEY is heading to San Antonio, TX. Followon assignment will be chief, Personnel Plans Division, HQ AETC/DPX. Wife, Cheryl, will be assigned to the Promotions Section at AFPC while Grantham and William, twin boys (age six) will negotiate a new athletic contract with Randolph Youth Sports Center.

Terry ORNER: “I’m off to Osan AB, Korea for 12 wonderful months at 7th AF.”

Eric STEWARD: “I will continue to suffer in lonely silence in DIA’s Central MASINT office for my next assignment.”

Ernie BENAVIDES: “My follow-on assignment is at SAF/AQS where I will be the SBIRS PEM. This is good since I get to keep my house in Northern Virginia (my assignment before ACSC was at the NRO). I’m looking forward to going back as a Geo-bachelor... commuting to Virginia on the weekends is getting old.

Greg CAYON, who is my hero for having flown Air Force One (with you-knowwho, before the pillaging), is still waiting for an assignment.

Rex GIBSON is going to Miami: USSOUTHCOM J-5.

Seth BEAUBIEN, who never shuts up and can never just answer a simple question responded to my request for a Checkpoints update on his assignment out of school with, and I quote: “Fairchild, WA beau.”

Reni STELLA passed on some good news: “We just had our first child Remington Shane Renner was born 11 Jan (81bs, 12oz, 21in). We got a late start but hey, 13 years of marriage can handle an infant right?” Reni, this isn’t an advice column.

Thomas Beede BAILEYwrote: “We’re headed to NATO Joint Headquarters North at Stavanger, Norway. Rough duty, I know, but after the rigors ofACSC, I’ll need three years in a NATO assignment to recover. Looking forward to skiing, sailing, and traveling through Europe at taxpayer expense.”

Jeff SMITH got his follow-on to Air Force Studies & Analysis Agency at the Pentagon to be the Chief, Space Force Application.

That’s it for now—write soon. See you in the fall! Bob.

Sharon (Hullinger) Giletti

104 Ostrep Point Yorktown, VA 23692 (757) 8774414

E-mail: sharongiletti@aol.com

Percent members: 33

Hi again everyone! I hope 2001 is treating you well. Another class has made it to graduation and we are just six years from our 20-year Reunion! My how time flies. You all must be pretty busy these days because I have only heard from a few of you this quarter.

I got a very informative update from Scott HAVERKATE. Since I am currendy at United Airlines Flight Attendant training in beautiful, cold, and cloudy Chicago I am going to cheat and quote Scott’s email: “Long time no talk. I’ve always enjoyed reading your Checkpoints column and know you could always use some ammunition for your next column. Anyway, it’s about time I add my input. To start, I’m still flying Talon IIs and working Group Stan/Eval at Mildenhail. Erin and I have two great kids a four-year-old girl, Reagan, and a 17-month-old

boy, Jack. We’ve enjoyed the tour over here but look forward to a change ofscenery this spring and plan on moving somewhere in the States where the sun does shine. I’ve had a great run of flying assignments but didn’t want to take a non-flyingjob and push papers for a few years. As a result, we’re separating from active duty and I’m joining the seniority list at United. I’ll continue to fly C-130s in the Reserves.

‘We have a couple other ‘87 grads here as well. Bruce LACHARITE is chief of Group Plans and runs the exercise show for the all the Special Operations assets over here. I know he really likes that staffjob, but once a month the schedulers talk him into sitting in the cockpit just to give him a change of scenery and get him away from his cell phone. Tommy TRAN is also a Talon II pilot here. He is a flight commander and will be taking over 7SOS Stan/Eval this spring. I ran into Balan AYAR and Blake PIERSON at the O’Club a few weeks ago. They were TDY on their way through town from McChord and heard there was free beer and food for the Major’s pinning on party at the O’Club. Balan is an ADO for the C-141 squadron and Blake is leaving active duty and probably heading to Alaskan Airlines.

‘Some other bits and pieces are: Dave GOULD works SOF Doctrine for SOCOM at MacDill. That job gives him a lot of time to play with PowerPoint presentations and he’s working on his 1000-hour patch. He and Jill have two boys, Wyatt and Austin. Jamie WHITELY works some high-speed job at the Pentagon that he never wants to discuss. He and Meling have four kids now (thankfully, they had a boy or Mel would be pregnant again) and love living in Virginia. In his free-time, Jamie has made a life’s work of collecting pieces of junk even the garbage men wouldn’t be interested in and turning it into something with a purpose. McGyver has nothing on him. Mark BOVA recently returned to the U.S. from a RAF exchange assignment to be a schoolhouse C-5 IP at Altus. He and Amy and their kids are now settling into their new surroundings at Altus AFB, OK. As a diehard Nebraska fan, Amy is going to have a ball in Oklahoma now they have a football team again. John KAFER came out ofACSC at Leavenworth and is now living in Virginia Beach. I’m not sure what he’s doing on the East Coast. However, he and Loretta recently had twin girls to add to their female cast and Kafe is now outvoted by a five to one count in his own household.

‘Tom and Melissa BEHNKE are in San Antonio at AFPC. He runs the F-15 assignments desk. He’s become a real smooth talker; he convinced his boss to allow him to roll his Harley into the office when it rains. Ed KRAFFT is a United 727 ‘Panel Monkey” out of New York. He’s also splitting his time with the NYANG C5s and was recently lounging on the beaches of St Croix. The Guard really does do the AF dirty work. He and Carol live in New York and have three kids—Avery, Emily, and Richard. Rip LEE is a United 767 FO out of Chicago. He and Becky have two kids, Ryan and Rachel, and are living the dream in the heartland of the U.S., Wichita, KS. Matt RIORDAN is a United 767 FO out of LA. He and his wife, Katy, have two kids as well, Ryan and Ally. They’re very happy to be living in Southern Cal and taking more than their fair share of sunshine. Chris BURKE got out in ’99 and went to an aviation school full time. He got all his civilian pilot ratings and was hired as a Beech 1900 FO for Gulfstream International in FL. He’s moved on since then to Atlantic Coast (ACA) and is currently flyingright seat of a Dornier 328 Jet out of LaGuardia. This past December, he joined the Minneapolis Guard.

‘Jeff FLINT flies for Continental out of Newark. He’s also flying C-130s with Chris STEARNS in the Colorado Springs Reserve. Drew WHITE has been flying at Kirtland AFB as a Talon II schoolhouse IP and just got on with Southwest. He and his family are moving to San Antonio and he’ll be flying T-37s as a Reservist at Laughlin. Matt SMITH is an ADO with the 67th SOS (MC-130Ps) at Mildenhail and Darcy (LUCE) PHILLIPS was just in town as part of the AFSOC Stan/Eval Inspection Team. United and Delta recently hired her. She’s going to start class with Delta in May. Whew, lots of names. Hope you can use some of this in an upcoming issue. Look forward to seeing a lot more faces around the country’s airports this summer.”

I also received a card from Pam (HAUG) KAUFMAN. She’s stationed at Hickam AFB at HQ PACAF along with Mike MILLER and Ray ROBANO as I told you last quarter. But also assigned there are Jeff BROWN and Dave STILLWELL (I thought I saw you in the December 10th Honolulu Marathon!). Mike and Tracy had a little boy in December! Jeff is the DO’s Exec and he and his family will be heading to Newport, RI this summer for Navy Command and StaffCollege. Dave is at JICPAC. Pam’s husband Chris works at Camp Smith in Special Operations CommandPacific, and Pam’s working in the Commander’sAction Group. Here’s a great photo of Pam, Chris and their two daughters, Hannah (6) and Stephanie (2). It sounds like Hawaii is the place to be! Hope you all have room for visitors United flies there several times a day.

Pam and Chris Kaufman with Hannah and Stephanie.

Once again, I hope you all are healthy and happy and I hope that I get to fly

with all you United pilots at some point wouldn’t C/L/R be so easy (a little United insider training term). I will be based out of D.C. (Dulles, Reagan and BWI) Until next time or aloha for all you out at Hickam—S

Mark Peters upifee 9m // 835 East Lamar Blvd., #151 YlipP

WmBSjl

Arlington, TX 76011 (817) 937-9696/Fax: (801) 327-0953 //

E-mail: pylt@home.com

Percent members: 35

Hi 88!

Well it’s always neat to start with a baby picture. Here’s a picture of fohn and Georgia (RUCKLE) McCURDY and their new baby, John. They are presently residing in Dover, DE. Alas, no additional text to add as it was sent direct to the AOG and I don’t have Georgia and John’s number.

The McCurdy Family

The last issue had a note about Tony and Susan GLANGIULIO moving to Italy. Tony’s promised me some pictures from Europe, but in the meanwhile here’s a picture of his fini-flight dousing. For particulars, their e-mail follows: "We have finally moved into our new house in Napoli—Arco Felice to be exact. It is a large apartment with awesome views of the Gulf of Naples. Our new e-mail address is tsg.napoli@cybernet.it and our phone number (from the U.S.) is 001-39-081-8046061. For our military friends our mailing address is RHQ AFSOUTH/J3 Ops Div, PSC 813 Box 136, FPO AE 09620. Normally mail takes 7-14 days. If you need to send us any packages, send it as priority mail and keep them small as the larger the package the longer it takes to arrive here (two weeks to a month-plus). The place we actually live is Via La Sciana 2, Villa 21, Parco La Costa Sibilla, 80070 Arco Felice (NA), Italy.

Tony Giangiulio Fini-Flight

Kip TURAIN, with whom I had the pleasure to serve in the 6th Air Refueling Squadron at Travis, recently e-mailed with ACSC news. He’ll tell the story best: ‘We just had a mini-Academy reunion for ACSC pictures and Vicki (BESECKER)

RAST mentioned you were on a quest for Checkpoints inputs imagine that!

[Editorial note: That’s so true—write!]. I talked with Dave ARGYLE a while ago and he was completing 737 training with Delta. It is his third plane and he’s looking forward to the new airframe, paycheck, and schedule! All is well with his family, as they are out ofthe NewJerseywinters and back into the Florida weather around Miami. Tim BUDD is making the big move from Pope AFB to Maxwell for 01-02 ACSC. Although he enjoys his job, they are looking forward to some time off from his job as Wing CC executive officer and flying C-130s.”

‘ACSC students were treated to Rob SWEET’s personal account of his time as a POWin Desert Storm. He gave a greatpresentation and at the end it was hard to find one of the 600 of us who did not have a lump in their throat or a tear in their eye. Thanks, Rob, for pulling us all back into the fold ofwhat this job we have accepted is all about and the ultimate sacrifice we may be required to give. I ran across a written account of the interview he gave (accompanied with other USAFA grads who were POWs) up in the 6th floor of the USAFA library. Anyone who has time to review them, I highly recommend it. (Elevator ride approved for graduates!)

The next photo is courtesy of Vicki RAST (and Bob COLLELLA, ’86). It probably (not all may have made the picture invitation) includes: BARRETT, Sam;

Here’s “the gang” over atACSC.

BEHNE, Mary; BUSH, Timothy; BUTLER, Jeffrey; EVANS, Matthew; GANTT, Michael; GARZA, Robert; GRAHAM, Glenn; HUNT, Jeffrey; JACKSON, Linwood; JOHNSON, Clarence; KOMETER, Michael; LEWIS, William; McCAFFREY, Terrance; MISSAR, Kevin; NORTHRUP, Parker; REGENOR, James; RIPLEY, Randolph; SULLIVAN, Patrick; SWEET, Robert; TURAIN, Kip; TURNER, Shaun; HINMAN, Skip; LONG, Scott; and faculty, RAST, Vicki.

I’ll have to include Jeff CAMPBELL in the, “What a great guy!” category. On his own initiative he created a web site for ‘88! Here’s the scoop from the web site (www.usafa88.com) as to how it came about (and I thought it was my pleading from several issues ago not!): “So what’s this site all about? Well, I didn’t find another one. So I built this one. On the occasion of my 10-year reunion from our prestigious institution, I began a search to find information about who was going, what was going on, etc. I searched the USAFA site; I searched the AOG site; I searched Excite, Yahoo, Alta Vista, and other search engines. To my great disappointment, there was not a site for our class. It seemed to me that there was a site for every other class but ours. In this day of the Internet, I found this to be embarrassing. And so USAFA88.com was born—Basically, I could do it, so I did.”

Jeff also sent me a quick e-mail update on what’s new in his life: “You know I have been meaning to write you for some time. Two years, in fact. Then today, I was reading the class news in Checkpoints and noticed you were asking about a class web site. Well, it just so happens that two years ago (about the time of our 10year), I put up usafa88.com. I meant to have it announced at the reunion, but I was so busy seeing folks I hadn’t seen in 10 years that I totallyforgot. OK, now two years later, I figured I should write and let you know. Most of the information on the site is dated right now, but I’d be glad to update it if folks are going to show up. The most important section is already up, which is a listing of e-mails. There are probably only 30 or so but I’m sure ifyou mention the site in Checkpoints, the list will grow quickly. I now work for KPMG Consulting, and do this sort of thing for a living. I’d be glad to keep the site current, and make it whatever we want it to be. Just let me know what your thoughts are. Thanks, Jeff Campbell, editor, usafa88.com, X-Chickenhawk.” I’ll be sure to start mentioning it with every column to build awareness. Thanks, Jeff, for taking the ball and running with it!

Lastly, on the advice of Frank SCHMUCKI ordered Falcon’s Cry, A Desert Storm Memoir, from Amazon.com. It’s just arrived but judging from the jacket it looks like an interesting read. The author, Major Michael Donnelly, now retired, was an F-16 pilot in the war. Unfortunately, he now has ALS one of many health consequences of the “perfect war.” More later.

Thanks for all those inputs! This time I get to ask you to not just write/e-mail me, but to also to check out Jeffs handiwork at www.usafa88.com. (Please send him info and any and all good web links!)

Paul W. Tibbets, IV

102 Chennault Ave.

Barksdale AFB, LA 71110

Home: (318) 746-3853 / DSN: 781-4528

E-mail: patibb@earthlink.net

Home page: http://www.usafa89.com

Percent members: 40

WWj'Hello friends across the world! As you read this, my daughter is turning one year old. When “they” say children change your life forever, it couldn’t be closer to the truth. But, I would argue, our children change our lives for the better, while we at the same time try to make their lives better than our own. What an exciting and challenging opportunity! My wife would contend she never worked as hard in the workplace as she has raising our daughter, and nothing is more rewarding. As our daughter Avery grows up, my desire to spend time with her increases at almost an exponential rate. I think Angelle is the lucky one (and she does to), spending quality time daily with Avery, experiencing every little change as parent, coach, and cheerleader. A true blessing from God!

My first letter comes from Lisa (MCFADDEN) BECKER, who lives with her husband and fellow ‘89er Kurt in Minnesota. To avoid losing the tone and butchering the well-phrased commentary ofher letter, I have included it mostlyunedited and in its entirety:

‘Just wanted to drop a note to say hello. As Kurt and I were sitting at breakfast this morning, we were reading through the paper. A sure sign of old age we found ourselves in a political discussion. Up here, in the north (we live in Minnesota), we find ourselves being led by (1) a pro wrestler (and commentator for the XFL) and (2) some questionable senators. So, our first point of discussion was that we were looking forward to a day when our civil leaders are the Pete GERSTENs, Kurt HEISERs, Scott SALMONS, Mike GANTTs (’88) or the Eric JENKINs (’88) of the world.

“Naturally, this brought us back to one of the best-run campaigns of our cadethood. Whatever happened to Hal CRANMER? Why isn’t he running for public office? I know he has quite a campaign committee! Then... who wouldn’t be a better running mate than John (“put a helmet on that soldier”) MIHALY? We figured we better let them know now - -there’s not much time left until the 2004 election (or for the Bush supporters, we’ll hold off until 2008)... surely they can win the count over Mrs. Rodham-Clinton. You have to admit it’s a great idea. As I’m sure you understand, our brainstorming was cut short by announcement from our daughter that she was wanting some attention - -and a big gummy smile that we had to divert from our “adult” conversation to her.

“As Kurt and I have been civilians since late in 1998, our updates on classmates have been limited. That, and as I have been traveling for business or pleasure, I’ve been checking the cockpits of the airliners... and sure enough have run into some of our classmates. Just last week, on a trip to meet with Kurt in Savannah (he was doing some GV training he’s a corporate pilot for 3M absolutely loves it!), Scott GEORGECINK was in the cockpit on my Delta flight. Then, as Kurt finished up a run in Savannah, he ran into Shaun PERKOWSKI in the elevator (on a trip with US Airways). Shaun and Tiffiany (RODGERS) are living in West Virginia and have a new addition to their family as well. The super-small-world story of the decade Kurt was at a hotel in Santa Cruz, Bolivia a few months back when he heard his name, turned around and sure enough, it was TC (Tom COPELAND), on an overnight in Bolivia. My travels don’t bring me to such exciting places, but I do keep in touch with roommates Connie (DECHANT) MESKILL, who is finishing up her remote in Korea, and Jean DONOHUE, who is getting ready to leave San Antonio. The Becker vs. Chandler race to have a child was won by Eric and Shelley (ZUEHLKE) CHANDLER. They had a beautiful baby boy just days before our daughter Signe was born and Sam (their son) outweighs Signe by... another baby... after just three months! Surelyyou’ve seen the InFlow ads in recent Checkpoints with our own Mike FONTAINE in them he and Jennifer are doing great in Denver, with two adorable little Fontaines (Jack and Ty).

“And, keeping us company in the great white north are the BOWMANs Reed and Kirsten and their two girls. Reed is flying for Northwest and keeping the skies safe from those Canadian invaders in the Duluth Guard. Rob and Lee ANDERSON are in Washington; he flies for United and the Portland Guard. Karen PASTORET is up in Washington as well haven’t gotten a recent update but my last one said airlines and Guard. Mike and Tonya CHAPA are at Edwards AFB. Mike’s a test pilot there. That’s about all I know for now. I’m finishing up my 12 weeks of maternity leave and heading back to work (I work at Guidant Corporation—we make pacemakers, defibrillators as well as vascular intervention stints and catheters I work in Regulatory Affairs, working with the FDA for product approval) next week. So...better get off to the Mall ofAmerica while I can.” Thanks Lisa!

Our next letter was handed to me by Gretchen (WILTSE) KURLANDER while I was TDY to Lajes AB, Azores on a base visit with Gen Keck. Gretchen is stationed there with her husband, Tony, who is a staff judge advocate, and their children Austen and PJ.

Austen, Gretchen, Tony, and PJ Kurlander enjoy the Azores.

Gretchen is a Reserve aircraft maintenance officer, but also keeps busy with the Officers’ Spouses’ Club, volunteering in Austen’s classroom, and serving as assistant coach for PJ’s soccer and T-ball teams. She enjoys leading “the typical suburban housewife existence!”

Gretchen says they love Lajes, with its very friendly people, good food and seenic ocean, beach, and green fields surrounded by rock walls. The family has enjoyed traveling around the Azorean islands of Pico and Faial, as well as Spain and Italy. As a matter of fact, they will be PCSing to Aviano, Italy in July for another hardship tour. Great seeing you Gretchen!

That’s all for this issue! Keep those e-mails and letters coming. Take care and God bless.

James Sanchez

8515 Grapevine Highway #210

N. Richland Hills, TX 76180

Home: (817) 946-1802/ Fax: (817) 281-5089

E-Mail: james.sanchez@usafa90.com

Homepage: www.usafa90.com

WEB: USAFA90.COM

Percent members: 42

Greetings, most mighty and glorious and... you know the drill. Here’s all the news I can fit into 1,400 words:

Dana (WHITE) NELSON wrote: “I’ve been on the move for the last two months.

I’m finally out of the Air Force and am currently in Atlanta training with Delta. We are living in Maryland in our new house that I only got to spend 13 days in. Bummer! Also, I found out that my first assignment with Delta will be in a 737 as a first officer in Orlando. I just started with Delta on the 8th of Jan while on terminal leave. I apparently escaped Altus, OK before the big ice/snow storm hit. Altus was fun, but it was time to live in the same state as my hubby. He’s still enjoying the Capitol Hill thing, so I probably won’t be leaving Maryland for some time. Ifanybody needs any help with Delta, please let me know. Also, if anyone’s looking to visit D.C., we have plenty of room. Just give me a holler. Should be fun. Well, take care and I’ll talk to everyone later. Gotta go study.”

Abigail,

Zac BELCHER wrote a note on paper bought at the C-Store during our fourdegree year: Zac, you win the spirit award! The picture he sent is in Paris: “We are now living in Geneva, Switzerland. We’ve really been enjoying life in Europe and try to get out every weekend to see new sights.” He wrote more, but it’s on that four-degree paper and I’m too lazy to type it in.

Ben DAVIS continues to do great work with the 1990 CS-13 web page. To see the latest Bulldawg news go to the USAFA90.COM, click “By Squadron,” click “13,” and click on the “Squadron News web page” link.

Ted WILSON wrote: “Much has changed for me in the past two years. And although I made Major, I am separating in July. I plan to remain here in Germany and, one day, open a bike shop. I’ll keep you posted on that one ...”

“Reunion Flashback”

Javiar DELUCCA wrote: “Just PCSd from Kadena to the D.C. area for six months of training and then moving on to Bogota, Colombia as the assistant air attache. Will be flying the C-12 and be involved with the day-to-day operations of the U.S. Embassy.”

Dan DIRNBERGER wrote: “Having completed six years of specialty and sub-specialty training, we have moved to Kadena AB in Okinawa, Japan, where I am one of the four neonatologists in the nearby Naval Hospital. We transport and care for the critically ill and premature babies born to DOD families throughout the Western Pacific. My daughter will be turning three and my son one, both in March. There are parks all over Okinawa, and we love Japan, but personally, I would rather be on the mainland than on this tropical island! We’ll be here until 2003.

DerekABEYTA wrote: “I’m here in Albuquerque, NM at Kirdand AFB. I’ve been assigned to the HQ Air Force Inspection Agency. Things are going great! Just found out that my wife is expecting our fifth child in Sept/October timeframe.”

I heard from Forrest HARE: He’s at Ramstein AB. Forrest has started working, and Misuk is getting big. Baby is due in April and we are all welcome to come out there sometime to visit.

Curt WAGNER wrote: “Separating from active duty Feb 28th and heading to Edmond, OK to fly Tweets for the 5th FTS Reserve Squadron at Vance AFB. Working on airlines, too.

Anna Pflieger wrote: “Just thought I would let you know that my husband, Clayton PFLIEGER, (CS-24) is on the front of the Air Forces Times for the week of 19 Feb. He is the one wearing the yellow helmet. There is also a photo of him on page 15 on the upper left. He is wearing camouflage and talking on a radio. These photos were taken in ’97 at Fairchild and they are re-using them for this article. I didn’t tell him I was sending you this e-mail but I thought some guys from the Zoo would find it amusing. Clayton is still at T-6 PIT down at Randolph, been gone since Thanksgiving. He left me and our three children (all under age five) back here at Vance and makes it home on the three-day weekends. If the planes would quit breaking and the weather would clear up he will finish up in a few

Nancy,

Jacob, and Zac Belcher (and Elizabeth in the stroller).

weeks. We will be PCSing to Moody in March. Once there he will be the flight commander in charge of life support. Clayton is looking forward to his new job and living in the South, where he can race his car and hit the beaches! He sends his “hellos” to all.”

Mike PELLETIER wrote: "Well, I’m one of the very few folks just starting out my piloting career in the USAF. I just finished the F-15E FTU at Seymour Johnson and I’m off to RAF Lakenheath for the next two years. Look forward to hearing from anyone who’s headed my way.”

Jay UPDEGRAFF has started his C-5 crossflow training at lovely Altus by the sea. He’s PCSing to the 3rd AS at Dover by the end of May. lay’s wife, Becky, and kids Daniel (4) and newborn Catherine decided to forgo the whole Altus experience and will meet up with Jay at Dover, and move into their new house. Jay welcomes all RTBs who are stuck in Dover for the night to give him a call. He ran into Tim SHOFI in the squadron on his way out to Altus.

Lefty SUMMERLIN wrote: “I graduate from the UW MBA program in June then move to Boise in August to take a job with HP. Anyone needing help or seeking advice regarding graduate business schools or jobs with HP, email me at summerlin4@msn.com.”

Chip WEAVER wrote: “I was unable to attend the reunion in the Fall because I had a Delta interview that week and drill weekend. I separated from the Air Force last February and was hired by the Alabama Air National Guard. I pinned on major last April and have been doing the ANG the last year and enjoy it. We still live in Warner Robins Georgia but I start with Delta on 5 March.

Ryan CECIL wrote: “Continental Airlines just hired me, and I will start class on 17 April. I will most likely be based in Newark or Guam in the 737 (know any '90 guys at Anderson AB?). I will continue to fly with the NJ ANG. I’m still married, coming up on 11 years in June. Mywife, Nathalie, is teaching French at a private school that my two kids attend. Roxanne is seven and just lost one of her front teeth, and Eric is five and a half. By the way, it was good seeing you at the reunion, and I think we need to get a gang together for the Sooners game!

Jay AANRUD wrote: “I just wanted to update Mighty ‘90 on my location and particulars. My family uprooted and moved to Incirlik AB (threatcon “C”, nasty neighbors, good carpets) in August, and will be here for another year and a half. I’m flying with the units that flow through in the mighty F-16 CJ and am able to fly operational missions a few times every month. I’ve run into a few grads on every continent, and have enjoyed every encounter. Marty KERBER in S.C., Dave ‘Bosco” MURPHY in Turkey, John SHAW in Germany recently, Ginger WALLACE in Italy during Allied Force, Ray SAGUI over Iraq (take 'em, Norton! magnum), Holly RAWSON at CTF, the same squadron with Rob “Waldo” WALDMAN, Jimmy ‘Street” WALKER, and Mike “Slots” LIGHTNER, and the list goes on. Feel free to send hate mail if we hoisted a few and I didn’t mention it, but the point is made. It is a hoot to run into classmates, and the pictures and e-mails from the reunion support that. Please contact the Aanrud Family (Janet and Jordan) if you can swing a trip through Turkey!

Finally: Sometimes I get e-mail and I’m not sure how much is intended for me and how much is for the class. When in doubt, I remove material that may be embarrassing. It helps if you set aside your update so I know what to publish. Thanks!

Carson Tavenner

4414C Bighorn Drive USAF Academy, CO 80840 (719) 472-5942

E-mail: carson.tavenner@usafa.af.mil

Percent members: 39

Here’s our class news in a nutshell: "Hey, Tav, how are you doing? I got out of the Air Force and am having a great time. Can’t wait to see everyone at the reunion! Later!” If you’re not satisfied with that summary and want to know more about what our class is doing, though, read on!

The reunion is really taking shape. If this is the first time you’ve read anything about our reunion, then the very first piece of info you need to know is that we’re getting together Oct 10-14, and Air Force is going to whomp Wyoming that Saturday in Falcon Stadium. Many classmates have been virtually on the edge of their seats gettingready for this (the reunion, not the game)! Dozens of our classmates had, even at the beginning of the year, already told us they were planning on coming. We’ve got a special deal with the Sheraton (down on 1-25 and Circle) and the rooms we’ve contracted there continue to be snatched up in greater and greater numbers of Bold Golders. You can be sure the reunion week/weekend will provide many opportunities to catch up with all the news and great stories contained inside our ten years away from each other.

Here are some of the ideas we’ve got (not all of which will necessarily come about, but we hope they all do, of course): a volleyball game/tournament at the Bill Grace Memorial Court (in Vandenberg), a grad night at O’Furry’s with 91cent drinks, arranging to have David Barclay play at one of our informal gatherings, and scheduling a memorial 0630 Physics GR for y’all on Friday morning after the Thursdaypartying. Those are the kinds of fun things that will help bring back memories, we believe. But instead oftrying to describe everything you need to know, I’ll direct you again to www.usafa91.com and ask you to pass the reference to your friends, since not everyone gets this magazine or has a chance to see the column. By the way, our webmaster, Angie, has pointed out to me that there’s a quicklyincreasingfrequency ofhits on the site, so you can be sure you’re in good company!

Now, the last column was a downer (MartyTheer’s death), and since then there’s been much more news from y’all, so here’s the lowdown on where people are and what they're doing. I’m going to largely cut out the lengthy stories unless they’re really cool ones.

First, here’s those who’ve announced their departure from the Air Force in the past few months: Chris (HARVEY) BELL, entering the Reserves in Tampa; husband Dave BELL will have separated in April, also to the Reserves; Ryan FARMER, consulting with Booz, Allen & Hamilton’s Dayton office as well as Reserve work; Randall SAUER, flying tankers in the Reserves at McConnell; Christy (LEADER) CHRONIS, 727s for Delta; Chan CONRAD, flying for American; Aric DIMEFF, by the time you read this anyway, F-16s in the Guard; and finally a big group from McGuire: Ray ROBINSON (UPS); Wed SENDAYDIEGO (American); Sean LOGAN (NJ GUARD AGR); Colin KEEN (Reserves McChord).

In a similar but not the same category, Phil SCHWEIZER was medically retired from the service for tumors of the spinal cord, and fortunately is doing well. He got married at Laughlin to an AF Nurse (Paula Dayoub) eight years ago. He adopted Paula’s children; Maxx and Michelle are now 16 and 18. They relocated to Pittsburgh in September (Paula works for U.S. Air) and are having a blast.

Stories you want to hear: Daryl SASSAMAN is “now flying C-130s as the Canadian Exchange Here pilot. Based in Ontario, two hours east ofToronto; the people are great and the beer is better.” Sounds cold, too! His quick past: three years flying missile warning satellites at Falcon, married in ‘93, SOS and Requal in ‘95, five years flying the Here at Litde Rock.

David DAMRATH manages the national accounts for Tropicana in Florida. He tells a story of going to Colorado “to see us beat CSU on national TV and sub-zero temps. Reminded me of our last home game during our FirstieYear versus BYU when iy Detmer lit us up for 50 points. I was with Kit BOBKO (now an attorney in LA), his dad (Pete - Class of ‘62) and younger brother Ryan. There was a big ‘59 Cotton Bowl Reunion with Brock STROM, ‘59, and all the rest. They inducted a couple of those guys into the Colorado Sports Hall of Fame. Great to see the heroes.”

Dan CURRY’s story is pretty interesting, too. "I’m pleased to announce the birth of my first child, Conor James Curry, on 28 July 2000. Peggy and I relocated from Ireland to Red Bluff, California, where I’m pursuing a teaching career. I’m currently teaching 8th grade in a Catholic school; my credential is in social studies for junior high and high school.” That’s definitely off our typical grad beaten path. Sounds great, Dan! Looking forward to seeing you soon.

Derek WEST is in the 88th Weather Squadron at Wright-Pat. His quick history: “After getting a PhD in 1998 studying hurricanes (thankyou AFIT), left Ohio State and am stationed at Wright-Patterson AFB supporting acquisition as a so-called meteorological expert” He saw Jeanette (FULMER) VOIGT (was teaching math at USAFA, went back to tankers at MacDill) during a ceremony where I commissioned Darshan DOHLE (‘00). Had a great time and was flooded with a rush of memories.”

From across the Pacific, our buddy Chee Meng NG sends a lot of news and thoughts. Here are some excerpts: “On my end, the year has been a really hectic one... managed to sell off our condominium... bought an old semi-detached house... re-constructing the house... crammed into one bedroom... waiting anxiously to move in... Sara and Ellie have been growing up very nicely and they are now five and three yrs old... I received my first real command [1 Feb 00] after attending the Singapore Command and StaffCourse... managed to top the course and received the award from the second defence minister (similar to your Sec of Defense). I took command of 144 SQN flying our upgraded F-5s... early promotion to LTC on 1 Jul 00.1 can’t complain much about my AF career although we do work very, very hard. I guess also I will be staying in until retirement at an early age of 45! Yes, we retire our officers very young! By the way, it looks like I may not be going to our 10th reunion. I may be deploying to Thailand during that period with the SQN... wow, remember the carefree times when each one of us ate one large pizza all by ourselves, drank multi-pots of coffee to cram for exams, or hid in our rooms to drink beer and scheme of ways to break rules?”

Thinking internationally, anyone see Luis VILLANUEVA? There’s a French pilot looking for him. I’m holding onto an old e-mail. Please advise, Luis! Shannen (KARPEL) BATCHELOR switched career fields a while back and is now working in labor and delivery with the 859th Medical Operations Sq. at Wilford Hall, LacklandAFB, The interesting story is that she separated from the AF in ‘96, went to nursing school, worked in a civilian hospital for a year, then came back into the AF nurse corps in March last year! Cool, huh?

Dan and Conor Curry - LovingLife!

Francis DOIRON is in the 564th Missile Squadron at Malmstrom. He reports, ‘David SUZUKI... got out, got married and is working for a D.C. beltway company. I never figured him to be one to get out, but he said he just wanted to settle down. That’s about it, just working (missiles), spending time with my family Chris, my wife; Joe, my son; Celeste, my daughter, and another due in March!”

LOTS OF QUICK BITS: Steven MORAES is in the 150 ARS (NJANG) while flying for United. Kelly SMITH is in the 9th ARS at Travis, was married to Amy Johnson (from Onaga, KS) in Sep 97. Bernard WILLIS is in the 56TRS (62FS) at Luke as an F-16IR was married Jul 92 to Kentuckygirl Lynne. Two children (girl, boy): Shelby, 7, Jon, 3. Ed WOLD has an interesting exchange job at the AFFSA Detachment 1 with the FAA at Will Rogers World Airport, OK. He works flight checks and says the job has too much training. Casey (LEGLER) HINDS is at Yokota AB. Also across the Pacific we find Peter GARRETSON in Okinawa, doing plenty, such as teaching his daughters to ride bikes, catch, sign the alphabet, and getting ready for a babyboy. Nancy (WEISS) CASTRO has separated and lives in Wichita Falls, TX. Thomas RIEDEL flies for American out of Peru, IN. His family is wife, Lisa, a daughter Kathryn, and son Jacob. Mike STRATTON has three kids, and is happilyworking for Penske Truck Leasing as their manager ofretail remarketing (selling used trucks). Susan RANK got engaged to Scott Foy and will be married this year. Hey, Sue, how about at the reunion? I think we could drum up a few attendees. Dan O’CONNOR did a five-and-dive, now works at Eastman Chemical in Mount Carmel, TN. “Married to a great lady, Hollie, with no offspring to date. God bless America!” You said it, Dan!

And with that... you’ll see the next column just before the reunion. Be safe! Tav, signing out.

James S. Mehta

Box 5363

Carmel, CA 93921-5363 (831) 622-0752

E-mail: jamesmehta@usafa.com

Percent members: 35

vSffTWl

Hello, Class of 1992! Welcome to another edition ofyour class notes. This time my information is a little thin, so motivate yourself to send me that e-mail you keep thinking about writing. Actually, I did rustle up some info on the phone.

Nothing new for me here in California. NPS is going great and I’m looking forward to starting Turkish language classes in the fall. I have run into a few classmates on campus, mostlyin theTrident Room (bar). ThadALLENjust started his master’s here in the Special Operations program. He came from the Special Operations Squadron in Kadena. Also, I ran into Scott REINHARD who is an F16 pilot and is at Defense Language Institute here in Montereywhere he is studying French for six months so he can PCS and fly F-16s with the Belgians for a few years. I also happened to see a list on the AF News page of those selected for USAF Test Pilot School and recognized a few names: John GLOYSTEIN and Tony SIMPSON will be going to Edwards, and Sean LONGRIGAN was selected to attend Navy Test Pilot School. Congratulations! Finally, I did receive a few e-mails this quarter and for the rest of the news I called some old True Blue friends to catch up with them and get some Checkpoints fodder.

Myfinal e-mail was from an old CS-22 Tarantula, John MILTNER. John is back in CONUS after a great three-year tour in Turkey as a treaty compliance officer for the 39th Wing at Incirlik AB. I think he will be my fountain of information as I get close to my PCS to Turkey at the end of ‘02. He is now working B-1B sustainment test and evaluation. He does a few TDYs to Ellsworth, but for the most part he is at Tinker. He’s enjoying his house in Oklahoma City, but is on the lookout for a new Miata to cure his “occasional pangs of sports car withdrawal...” Good to hear from you John come visit us in Carmel the next time you come to California.

Beep, beep, boop, bip, boop, beep, beep... (That’s me dialing the telephone...)

My first harassingphone call was to Josh KUTRIEB who is here at NPS with me. He has already been here almost a year studying astronautical engineering. It’s been so long since I did any engineering, I am glad I chose a fuzzy program this time National SecurityAffairs. Plus, I don’t think OSI has much of a need for engineers, so I’ll leave that to Josh. Somehow, he’s getting through it with his wife, Kristin, and three kids, Hayden (4), Jared (2), and Gray who arrived December 19, 2000. Josh also updated me on some other classmates. His old decathlete team member Jason MARSHAL is reportedlyflying the B-2 atWhiteman. Jason’scall sign is “TBAR” —That BoyAin’t Right! Josh says for those of us who remember Jason, we’ll understand. Vern CONAWAY, Josh’s old roommate, is married to Amy and they have two little ones, Quinton and Wendy. Vern just headed back to the Zoo to be the Stan/ Eval Officer for the new trainer aircraft squadron there. He was flying C-141s at McGuire before being called back to the nest. Chuck HOWARD is still at McGuire flying C-141s and it is reported that Sam WHITE is headed to Whiteman to join Jason in the B-2. Sam, I can’tbelieve they’ll letyou flythe B-2! Never thoughtyou’d be flying it when we used to see it out at Edwards, did you?

“Spiders in the Schoolhouse." Don Unwin and Steve Bums (CS-22, Tarantulas) stopfor a picturefor old times’ sake at the C-130 schoolhouse at Little Rock, Jan 01. E-mail Grab Bag. Back in January, Michael BRUZZINI sent me a short e-mail saying he and his wife, Laura, and their six-month-old son, Michael William, just PCSed to Spangdahlem where Michael is flying F-16CJs. Michael William was born on June 6, 2000 another millennium baby at Luke while Michael was going through F-16 RTU. Michael cross-trained into the F-16 from the KC-135 he was flying for three years at McConnell. He is in the 23rd FS at Spangdahlem along with John LYONS, JohnWILSON, and Jason WHITE. (Did I lose you? Hope you kept track of which Michael is which?) Thanks for the note Michael and enjoy Germany.

The next e-mail was from JeffWHITEMAN who separated in January to go fly for United Airlines. We have finally hit the point where ‘92ers with UPT commitments are finishing them and can get out. Many seem to be taking the opportunity to do so. Anyway, Jeff is married and has a boy and a girl. He was flying KC10s as a School House instructor pilot at Travis where he separated. Actually, he applied for Palace Chase to get out six months early and was approved, so he will be flying KC-lOs for the Reserves there at Travis for a few years. The Whitemans plan to stay in the Travis area, although Jeff doesn’t know where UA will base him. Good luck to you, Jeff, and anyone else making the transition. I suppose it is even more important to keep in touch with one another as we go our separate ways in the civilian world. (Translation: write to me!)

The Kutrieb gang on the Rock (Alcatraz). Josh, Kristin, Hayden, Jared, and Gray. March ‘01.

The next phone call was long overdue. Mark SLOCUM and I had lost touch for a few years and I just contacted him over e-mail and he sent me his number. I decided this was as good a time as any to give him a call. Mark is doing well up at Mountain Home in Idaho. He loves the area, although he says that most folks are like him and live in Boise and commute to Mountain Home. I’ve been to Mountain Home and it’s quite small, so I understand. He’s been there for three years flyfishing and water skiing in the summer and snowboarding and skiing in the winter. Oh yeah, he also flies the F-15E in his spare time... Actually, Mark is quite busy as an IP and a flight commander and has spent a good deal of time deployed to Turkey and the desert. He’s still got his ‘68 Corvette and so we compared notes with my ‘67. A couple of‘92 guys are in his squadron, SterlingTREE and Paul KNAPP Paul is a WSO and had spent his first few years out ofUSAFA in OSI, so he has the call sign, "Snitch.” Hmmm... I wonder what his wife, Becky, (‘93) thinks about that? Not to mention me. Becky is the OSI commander at Mountain Home. They both PCSed from Korea last year where I worked with Becky several times on OSI “stuff.” (Just to perpetuate the OSI myth!) Others at Mountain Home are Jim MUELLER (F-15C), Chuck CORCORAN (F-15C), Kristin STREUKENS (KC-135), and Kelly KIRKPATRICK (KC-135) and JJ MENOZZI (F-16) who got married last year.

My last phone call was to Dave KUMASHIRO. Dave always keeps track of a lot of folks. He is still flying C-5s at Travis. On a recent deployment to Moron, Spain while sitting alert and watching moves, he saw a few classmates Bill SPANGENTHAL, Matt TERPSTRA, and a few others. Back at Travis, Matt RAFTER was selected to be the Ops Group Stan/Eval Officer for C-5s; Sean MURPHY is the chief ofTraining for the C-5 Squadron; Jon WOZNIAK was just selected to fly UAVs at Nellis; Matt MATHIS just switched to the Alabama Air National Guard where he will fly C-26s near Mobile. Those who were interns with Dave in D.C. a couple of years ago: Troy BRASHEAR is spending some time on the UN mission in Eritrea; Amanda KATO is a program manager at Kirtland; Jeff HANDY is flying 15s at Elmendorf; and Tommy ROBERTS is back in Colorado at Schriever. That’s All Folks! Well, that wraps up another column. I’m sure you all have noticed that our 10th year reunion is just over a year away—so start saving your leave now. Really, as if any of us have assignments or jobs that we can actually use up all our leave... So, once again, Semper Excelsior! True Blue ‘92! And all those other cool phrases. God Bless James.

Michael D. Sundsted A ife 4530 East Castle Drive McGuire AFB, NJ 08641 (609) 724-0866

DSN: 650-6852

E-mail: Bravecwboy@aol.com

Class Website: www.highflight.com

Percent members: 86

Welcome to yet another graduation article!! What a great time of year for our fellow graduates at the Air Force Academy! Congratulations to another class to

pass through the hallowed halls ofVandenberg and Sijan Halls. Wow, eight years for us - amazing! Hope the spring treated you well and the summer will do the same. Things here in New Jersey are going great. The winter storm of the century missed us completely. For all the hype - it was just rain - no snow! Lori and I are doing well and so is Collin. Although, as I write, my son has a temperature of 102 and some sort ofvirus. Yes, he’s on medication. The doctor assures us he will be fine. Any experienced parents sympathize -1 am sure you do! I haven’t shown you guys a picture of Collin so here it is!!

Mike Sundsted and his son, Collin.

Our first update this issue is from Adrian MICHALICEK. He decided to write due to the low volume in the last article! Thank you Adrian! (Hint: I am only a few keystrokes away!) He e-mails us from Westminster (NW Denver) with his wife, Kim, and two sons, Brendan James and Logan Thomas. Their third child was scheduled to arrive into the world this April. Congratulations to you both!

Adrian is completing his PhD in mechanical engineering at the University of Colorado. Upon graduation he will head back to USAFA and join the Physics Department! (Say hello to Colonel Head for me, Adrian!) I know those freshman will love to suffer... I mean learn through your class! Remember an open book test is a student’s best friend! Adrian says he constandy runs into fellow classmates, especially in Denver. While taking a break from beating his JeepWrangler up sliding through the slick wintry Colorado trails, Adrian ran into Nicole PETERSON at a Scuba expo in Denver and Tuong BUI while barhopping.

While visiting USAFA, our future physics instructor ran into Wayne MYERS in the Engineering Mechanics Department and Russ TEEHAN and Lori (VAN DYKE) EVERETT in the Physics Department. He saw about a dozen more ‘93ers on office doors. Adrian vows to take over the Zoo one ‘93 graduate at a time. Adrian had some pictures of his family and a recent trip, but they didn’t come in the letter for some reason. Just another reason for Adrian to write us again and update us on his move to USAFA after his graduation! Thanks for the great e-mail!

The next update is from MattYOCUM! He spent 1998 and 1999 in the Meehanics Department at USAFA. That department had a large amount of ‘93ers theresome of them mentioned in Adrian’s letter - Marty BOWE, Michelle (KAZMIER) IDLE, Rob BORCHERT, Mike RICE, and Wayne MYERS. After the Mech Department, Matt went through language school in Monterey, CA and is now in the Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program. He has got some pretty interesting stories. He is currently in Israel and trying to stay out of trouble. He has moved six times by his seven-year point in the AF. He is currently working on several books. He is quite the accomplished author. He is even thinking about doing a book about snapshots oflife at the Zoo! Awesome! I’ll buy the first copy! Thanks for another great update!

Ali (WARD) TREVINO checks in with a brief note. She is at Hanscom AFB working as a contracts manager in the MILSATCOM program. She updates on Jenn JOYCE who will be getting married this June in Florida. Ali and Anne TRUITT will be attending. Anne is still at medical school at George Washington University.

Lee SPECHLER gave me a brief update via e-mail today. He is on his way to Spangdahlem, but will be taking some leave in the states. He is moving from Osan AB, Korea to Germany. He is totally pumped about the move. Lee enjoys dropping bombs from his mighty Hawg and often wonders why our class web site has an F-22 on it and not an A-10. Maybe Rich CUERVO will change it for you Lee! Mike MEYER just arrived in Lee’s squadron. Lee’s ORI is currently in full swing and flying three Forward Air Control type missions. Lee says after three in one day he is tired, but wouldn’t trade his job for anything! Ben BRADLEY is also there at Osan AB. Best wishes on your inspection!

Other quick updates are from Karen GREMBA who made a trip down to Chile at the end of March. She was going to look up Sergio SANDOVAL in the Chilean AF. Mark ARNHOLT spent some time with him in the fall. Sergio, maybe Karen can get the ride in your jet that Mark got! Also, Scott POWELL updates during his waning moments as a first assignment instructor pilot (FAIP) at Vance AFB, OK. He just got his orders - his next assignment will be to fly theVIPER (F-16). That’s right, he’s going to be a “fighter-pilot,” flying Mach 1+ with his hair on fire. He leaves for the Introduction to Fighter Fundamentals course in the fall. His wife, Angela, has her hands full taking care of Scott and their 18-month-old daughter. He updates us on Larry HOPKINS who is at Offutt AFB, NE. Larry is a navigator in RC-135S there. He and his wife, Tanya, are doing rather well suffering through tornado season in the land above Kansas.

Okay, okay -1 know you are going to say that I can’t believe our time together was so short this time! Unfortunately, I’m afraid it is. Our article has had a great track record. I get many compliments on it from other classes. Other scribes ask how we maintain so much contact and I tell them that we have an awesome class. Let’s continue that great record and make the next article an awesome update for everyone.

Oh, I forgot to put a picture of Frank FLIETAS and me in the last article. If you can remember, Frank and I jaunted around the Pacific Ocean for two weeks in December! Here is a photograph of us in a little restaurant that we happened upon in a very small town south of Misawa AB, Japan. We had a great time enter-

Frank Fleitas and Mike keeping upforeign relations with the locals ofJapan. taining the locals. I am sure you can guess from the picture how we did that! Honestly - we weren’t the unruly ones that night! Talk to our Japanese friend Yosteru for that tide! Take care and best wishes. Until next time... respectfully your scribe...

C. C. Masotti

7608 Southern Oak Drive Springfield, VA 22153

Home: (703) 644-4332

Work: (703) 697-1383 or DSN 227-1383

E-mail: bowhead94@hotmail.com

Percent members: 75

wipf

WsBfiS 7

Fax: (703) 695-8884 or DSN 225-8884 cassia

Hi, ’94! Greetings from our nation’s fabulous capitol! What a great city! I mean, where else can I be fortunate enough to have a great conversation over lunch with a good-looking Presidential appointee? No, there’s no new handsome stranger in my life. I’m talking about fellow Barnstormer (CS-23) and classmate Bob GOODWIN, who separated last year, then left his job as a contractor to work on the inaugural committee. That landed him a job on the transition team, which led to a great position working in the Agency for International Development for disaster relief and humanitarian aid. We caught up over lunch a few weeks ago and he filled me in on the other members of the CS-23 “Freakshow" with whom he’s kept up. I took notes on a napkin, so let’s see what I can decipher here.. Bob’s heard of, or is in touch with, Jason FORREST (Laughlin, T-38 IP, married with two kids); Wil BLOCK (married, out of the military); Jim KAFER (going to school in preparation to become an AOC) and Ed KAPLAN (USAFA instructor). He also filled me in on Joe and Megan KENDALL (Kunsan; F-16, going to Weapons School); Chris THOME (Golden CO, works for New Global Telecom, buying new house); Tom MOLOKIE (PCSing to Colorado Springs soon); and James, Lauren, and baby Alex BIERYLA (Edwards, TPS). I saw another fellow “Freak” a few months ago on the Air Force homepage... Air Force world-class athlete Joe PASTORELLO was highlighted after the 2001 Air Force Boxing Championships. You can see him hard at work in the photo, as he fought to advance to the quarterfinal rounds.

Joe Pastorello King of the Ring

Another “Freak” in the area is John PRICE (’93) who’s shaking things up in the AF intern program while his bride, Stephanie (PARSONS), loves her job staying home with their daughter Maggie. As usual, John has risen to the top and is an informal leader of this year’s group of interns, keeping them abreast of professional development opportunities, promotions, board selections and more. In fact, he just sent around the list of Test Pilot School selectees, which included a ton of grads, including our own George HOLLAND (Ellsworth) and Deb (NAWROCKI) LUKER’s husband Joel (Kelly).

Joining me as another recent D.C. transplant is Jen KAEPPLER, who’s enjoying civilian life in nearby Columbia, MD. I ran into her at Suzy STREETER’s (’92) housewarming/wine-tasting soiree a few weeks ago, along with Bob GOODWIN, Tracy HEALY (’96, Andrews; helicopter pilot) and Natalie HOLZHERR (’96, OSI) and a host of other folks. We also got together the next day to attend a great local dinner theatre. My shopping buddy Julie PRICE (’95, now in the Reserves and working locally as a contractor) was going to join us but had to go out of town. Also, Ethan and Allison STANTON live here in town with their darling son Read

Douglas Stanton. Ethan admits that poor Read is already confused at his young age, as his dad is an avid Falcon fan and mom a Sooner it’ll make it tough for him when the two clash this September!

Ethan, Allison, and baby Read Stanton

Ethan is now out of the AF and working at Nextel Communications along with Chris HURLEY (’90), but he stays busy on the Board of Directors for the Air Force Academy Society of D.C. Ethan is also in touch with Chris O’BRIEN (Boston, sales rep, York Int’l), Francisco GALLEI (Geilenkirchen, Germany; AWACS), Todd SMITH (Elmendorf), Ric HOYT (Mt Home, F-15E), and Bobby BOWICK (’95; Houston; patent attorney).

No longer actually a D.C. resident, MarkWOOD (Offutt; SIOP analyst) couldn’t get the capitol out of his system either. In June he’ll marry his longtime sweetheart Lisa, a D.C. native he started dating when he was stationed here as a second lieutenant! Since I know how much he truly adores Lisa, I can share that he said they had to "get hitched so their black lab puppy Jake will be legitimate!” Mark is busy with lots of "purple-suit” operations while his former roomie Nate PADDOCK (Comm Flight CC; he and bride Jennifer just PCSd in from Germany) does more “blue-suit” work just down the hall.

I got another update from John and Jennifer FONCANNON (Eglin, F-15). They love being parents so much they’re going to give Eathan (born 12-11-99) a new brother or sister this summer!

And Richard & Amy BEJTLICH wrote from San Antonio where they’re celebrating their second anniversary and Richard’s very recent departure from the AF to work as a senior engineer for managed network security operations for Ball Aerospace & Technologies Corp. He’s helping launch a commercial network security monitoring firm that will soon spin off from Ball while wife, Amy (U of Michigan), is still an active-duty captain (Lackland). To celebrate the job change, they took a 16-day cruise of the Mediterranean during the two weeks of Christmas and New Year’s. They visited Greece and its islands, Egypt, Cyprus, and Turkey. Check out the photo!

CJ and Jen Sovada gather with USAFA friends at their October wedding.

Finally, new dependent Carrie (BISCHEL) JENSON checked in from Colorado Springs where she just left the AF to be a full-time mom to Noah (19 months) and Jonathan (five months) while Joel teaches at the prep school. If you want more updates (addresses, e-mails, etc.) on these folks and others, check out our home page! Thanks for all the great work, Chuck!

I think that takes care of the news folks have shared. I still love my job and the travel opportunities it brings. In January, I traveled with the Dutch Air Chief and will travel with the Omani Air Chief in May. The first visit took me to Langley, where I saw Chris (PRIEST) KRAG (Trans) and her husband Tom; Teri HOEFT (’93, FM); and Shelley STRONG (’93, Personnel), and to Nellis, where I’m pretty sure I saw Kerry KANE (Predator UAV pilot).

My upcoming trip will include Whiteman, Schriever, Mountain Home, and Elmendorf and I’m hoping to run into a lot of grads along the way. I’ll definitely see Daymon TIFFANY in Alaska, as he’s helping coordinate the visit. Hopefully I’ll see some of you on the road as well! Please keep in touch and let me know how you’re doing and holler ifyou need a place to stay duringAF-Navy weekend this year I have tons of room! Take care and God Bless! C.C.

Becky (Mason) Fox

247 Rutan

Wichita, KA 67218

toy)

Home: (316) 685-6544 y

Cell phone: (316) 806-4319

Home e-mail: bmas0801@aol.com

Percent members: 69

Hi everyone!

Things in Kansas are getting green! Happy Spring! Didn’t know if all of you knew but I got married in November... thought I may have mentioned it but life has been pretty hectic! My article was too long last time so I’m getting started now... lots of news! Wendell HERTZELLE is in Saudi Arabia enjoying the warmth and sand. Kerrin DENHAM has joined the 22d Operations/Intel flight as a Reservist. She sent news that Bill DENHAM, Paul WOJTOWICZ, and Chris GROSJEAN are all in PIT at Randolph on their way to Vance to be IPs. Cordis FOSTER separated from the AF and he and his family (wife, Denise, and daughters Haley and Challis) are living in the Denver area. Jenny (MAYERS) BAUTISTA and her husband, Mike (’94), are moving to Altus in May and Jenny is separating from the AF in April best of luck!

Richard and Amy Bejtlich get a first-class tour ofthe Pyramids.

Without telling me about himself, Chuck BAIRD also shared info from those who’ve updated their info on the class home page. Those reporting in included; Leslie “Houston” DAVIS (Houston TX, civilian budget manager), George (CHRISTOPHER) JOHNS (Cherry Hill NJ, Reserve civil engr, full-time mom to Haley, married to Doug, ’93), Jonathan LANDIS (Little Rock; C-130 Nav, baby: Savannah), and Michelle and Ben (COOKE) DALE (Palmdale; Flight Test Engineer). Jennifer (PATRICK) SOVADA (Kirtland; ISR test manager) wrote about her Boston wedding to CJ SOVADA and their honeymoon to the Canary Islands. World traveler Kathy CLEVELAND (Kirtland) sent a picture (see top of next column) of the wedding, with CJ, Jen, Kathy, Alex KEECHLE and Chaplain John Kenyon and his wife Isie (SCHWARZ, ’87).

Also checking in were Rod LIBERATO (Sheppard; asst fit CC), Pat BOGUE (Pope; CCT), Jeff SANDROCK (Wright Pat; Public Affairs), Ryan KENNY (San Jose, senior electrical engineer for Lockheed Martin), and Jeanne WILKINS (York PA, grad student at Johns Hopkins, in ANG at Harrisburg IAP). Mike REED (Schriever) is about to uproot young Brittany (four) and Jordan (two) to cross-train to Acquisitions. He should probably contact Rebecca (MEDENWALDT) ERWIN (Wright Pat), who had to leave maintenance to do the same she definitely misses her old life! Rob GUDIKUNST (Offutt) and his bride, Nicole (PATRICK), just left UPT at Columbus with their son Patrick, while Kristi KLUCK attempts to rebuild Chicago’s Midway Airport as a project engineer with Clark Construction. Chris FORD (Dyess; SF ops officer) and his four ladies (he and his wife have three daughters!) are enjoying Abilene after an 18-month Air Force boondoggle that earned him a master’s in criminal justice from the University of South Carolina. KB and Wendy (WACHOLTZ) BARNES wrote from Newport News, where he’s enjoying dependent status as a student in the JD/MBA program at William & Mary, and Wendy (Langley) is expecting their first child.

Chris SKORA wrote from Randolph and is getting ready to head from IFF to F16 FTU with the guard unit at KellyAFB, TX this March. Travis WILDS is also with him and is soon to be the proud father of twins! He saw Chris GROSJEAN at Randolph (see above). Jim STUMBO wrote that he is marrying Jennifer Gray (not the actress!) in Montana on June 30th He leaves for England in April, will come back for the wedding, and then they will head back to England. Jon “Guido” CORY got married on March 3rd to Diana. She has two boys, Justice (almost three) and Greyson (17 months) and they are great. Halsey BURKS and Dana DALLAS were planning on attending the wedding—we’ll be looking for photos! Best of luck to all on the upcoming nuptials!

Beau BILEK wrote from San Diego where he is on the border patrol and looking into grad school. He went to Travis KOCH’s wedding in November where John NEMECECH, Jason BOLLANDER, Jason and Sheri TONE, Mike PUGH, Jake MALLOY, Benji GLAZER, Mike MILLS, Jason COCKRUM, Jon DECKER, Matt BROOKS (’97), John HAMBY, iy LITTLE, Jason RISCHEL, and Beau enjoyed a great event. In March he’s playing in a hockey tournament in LasVegas withJon DECKER, Dan MCALLISTER, Rocky NORTHON, Mark DEGERONIMO (’96), Tony RETKA (‘94), Tony ROE (‘93) and a few others. That will be one for the record books!

Len CABRERA wrote that life is pretty hectic! He recently got back from a twoday trip (24 hours in the car) to go to Frank DELSING’s wedding in Alton, IL (by Scott AFB). Frank married the girl he left behind when he transitioned to C-130s and moved to Alaska congrats! Len is still at Hurlburt Field and will be finished with his MBA in April, then will head to the Academy as an economics teacher... woo hoo!

Dr Paul MORTON wrote from Portland, ME, where he is in his second year of emergency medicine residency program, but thanks to a fractured thumb tele skiing on New England ice, he doesn’t have the longer hours. He is planning on teaching a month-long wilderness medicine elective with three other ER docs in

May for the University of Massachusetts. The elective is 21 days in the field, split between altitude mountaineering, whitewater, and desert environments... all in Utah. Can you say SERE? Enjoy! Paul sent some photos but there were too many from people this time so they should be in later!

Jeff and Christine CALLAHAN-WEEKS (‘97) love being stationed in England together. Jeff KRONEWITTER is currently an air/air defense analyst in the “land of lost wages,” Nellis AFB. Brandon CUFFE is doing quite well back in Colorado Springs working at Falcon AFB in charge of multi-million dollar projects.

John and Leslie (JACOB-97) MORO and their daughters Caitlyn Marie (four) and Madison Elise (eight months) wrote from San Angelo, TX, where he is a materials manager with Ethicon (subsidiary of Johnson and Johnson). Jon and Karen VEAZEY are moving to C-Springs where he will be flying at USAFA—best of luck! Missy (HYLAND) MAY wrote from Kunsan where she is “stationed with about eight other grads just in my squadron alone.” Here is the photo she sent looks like a fun group!

May, andJon “Meat” Tinsley. Not pictured are Toby "1'obi” Brallier and Adam “no nickname” Meyers.

There are a bunch of ‘95ers at the Kun flying F-16s. The Juvats include Mike ‘Spades” WAITE who just finished IP upgrade and will be PCSing to Germany for an ALO assignment. Chris "Lude” KIBBLE showed up from Moody and is the most popular guy in Korea with the ladies he just completed four-ship flight lead upgrade. Jon “Habib” SHULTZ just married a JAG who is stationed up at Osan; so as newlyweds, people don’t see much ofeither ofthem. Rich “Chewie” MURRAY is already a legend at the Kun he holds the record for doing 29 shots at his Juvat Boys Choir tryout and for his next assignment, he’ll corrupt young pilots at Sheppard watch out! Jon “Meat” TINSLEY (yes, he lets people call him Jon) is currently going through IP upgrade and has extended a few months here in hopes of getting a weapon’s school slot. Missy “Shock” (HYLAND) MAY is there for her first F-16 assignment and is extending for six months because her husband, Mike MAY, just PCSed to Osan where he’ll also be flying vipers for his first assignment. They’ll be at Misawa for their follow-on assignment. Adam “AJ” MEYERS just showed up as a new IP and Toby‘Yobi” BRALLIER just PCSed to be an instructor at Luke. Over in the Pantons are the following: Nate “Gizmo” HANSON, Mike “Bolt” BARTEN, Brad “Juice” GLENN, and Sean BERNARDINI. How will we ever learn all of these nicknames? There are a bunch more up at Osan including Brad SEGER, Chris HUMMEL, Don KANG, Chris JONES, Bill BETTS, and Jim COLLINS, who are all flyingVipers: and Scott CERONE, Mike CURLEY and Andy STONE are flying A10s. Ty LITTLE is flying C-12s up at OSAN and he and Scott CERONE still KTP on a regular basis. They sometimes stand out in the hallway and call minutes to each other in the mornings and they get together to shine their boots in the evenings— keep it up guys you’ll be AOCs soon!

Julie PRICE wrote from Virginia where she is working in Rosslyn since separating from the AF in December. She also got her master’s in mechanical engineering from New Mexico State University before getting out congrats! The photo here is of her “baby,” a Harley Davidson Sportster Hugger.

or need a realtor for an upcoming move, give me a call I can get you hooked up! (Had to get that plug in there!)

Keep in touch let me know how things are! Until next time... from the Heartland, Becky.

Melissa S. Cunningham ^

9712 Hidden Valley Road Vienna, VA 22181

DSN: 732-5191

E-mail: Melissa.cunningham@pentagon.af.mil or frncunningham@aol.com

Percent members: 59

Greetings from our nation’s capitol! Fred and I are embarking on a one-year tour of the Pentagon. I’m sure this year will be fast and furious, but we are really excited... to get out of Del Rio. So for any of you that are coming this way for your AETC tour, it’s not the end of the world, just the end of Texas. Nah, really, I’m just kidding. This has been a great assignment. The people there are incredible and that’s what made the difference.

This year not onlybrings change to Fred and I, but to many ofyou as well. June marks the end of our initial five-year commitment. I’ve talked to several folks that are on their way out, but it seems like many will still serve time in the Reserves. If you are doing a five and dive, please continue to write in and send pictures. It’s going to get harder and harder to stay in touch when we aren’t running into each other in the system. So please drop a line when you get the chance.

Julie Price with her new baby in New Mexico.

You GO girl! She also wrote that Matt KOZMA is in the D.C. area and is getting out soon to work for the same company as Julie. They will both be in the Reserves there, too. Rolf LUNDMARK is stationed at FE Warren in missiles and owns a home in Ft. Collins, CO; I’m sure he is enjoying life out there!

Heard from Michelle JOHNSON who is in law school at Notre Dame also in the Reserves. Doing fantastic and staying incredibly busy! A1 ADAMS wrote me a long e-mail and I didn’t get it saved in time—but I do remember he is doing well and staying very busy with community and military activities. I hope I did not forget anyone I am sure I probably did. Ifyou are moving into the Wichita area

Mathes and Jennifer Mennel

The first picture comes from Matt and Jenny MENNEL. They were married on 8 July 2000 in Los Angeles. I heard from more than one of our classmates that it was the event of the year. Since the wedding, Matt and Jenny have been very busy. They moved to Colorado Springs where Matt is back in the Athletic Department as the head JV soccer coach and is assistant coaching the varsity team. Along with coaching, he has a full load teaching: boxing, basketball, unarmed combat, and volleyball. It’s amazing what you can do with a Bachelor of Science. 2001 looks to bring more challenges as he tries to help the Falcons return to form and reach the NCAA tournament.

I had the privilege of meetingJenny last March and she is a class act, ladies and gentlemen. I’m still not sure how Matt charmed her, but he is definitely a lucky man. After planning the wedding, Jenny began her Master’s of Business Administration degree at the University of Colorado in C-Springs. Despite the heavy workload with group projects, papers, and presentations, she continues to do independent web marketing consulting when she gets a free minute. She is also training for the Steamboat Springs Marathon on June third. They did get a bassett hound puppy, Hoss, who is keeping their backyard safe for democracy. In his Christmas letter, Matt wrote, “It is often said that dogs are precursors to children. Judging by Hoss’s behavior and our inability to temper it, well, let’s just say we have a ways to go!”

On a somber note, I received the tragic news that Justin SANDERS was killed in an aircraft crash on 21 Feb 2001. The word spread pretty fast through the unofficial channels, and many of us were able to make it out to Vance AFB for the memorial service. It continues to amaze me what lengths grads will go to for their friends and classmates. We all gathered at a local bar the night before the memorial for one last night out for Justin. Dax CORNELIUS showed up from AvianoAB. He was at the duty desk ofhis squadron gettingready to make a bombing run when he got the news. He left his gear at the desk and headed to the airport. He couldn’t get a flight out to the U.S., so he caught a plane to Belgium and then over to the U.S. His bags didn’t make it to Oklahoma, but Dax did, and he paid his respects to his friend. Tony PRINCIPI is another one who dropped everything to come out to Enid. He was gettingready for a deployment to the sandbox, when he called home just prior to his departure. His mother gave him the news and he changed his ticket to come to Oklahoma. Mike and Melissa CONLEY flew in and spent two weeks withJustin’s father and Carrie, his wife. Tim and Amy MORRIS came from Ft. Lewis, WA. Others gathered at Enid were Nate HESSE, Mike FELONA, Matt MENNEL, Bob and Melissa BRYANT, Julie THODE, Mark HICKMAN, Ryan HURT, Kerre SCARBOROUGH, Fred and Melissa CUNNINGHAM, Mike McDERMOTT, Melissa BAUMANN, Justin HANSON, and Brad Hall.

After a reverent memorial service, we all gathered in the O’Club with Justin’s squadron. His squadron commander offered three toasts and made some presentations to Justin’s family. Afterward, it almost turned into an open mike night. We all got up and told some of our favorite stories about Justin. Of course they were all funny, because Justin was a riot with an infectious laugh. It was almost

The '95 Juvatsfrom left are Mike “Spade" Waite, Chris "Lude” Kibble, Job “Habib” Shultz, Rich “Chewie"Murray, Missy “Shock" (Hyland)

a mini-reunion for the Class of ‘96 and the lacrosse team. There were some good laughs, good drinks, and good stories because we know that’s the way that Justin would have wanted it. But I think Mike FELONA said it best when he stated, “I wish we could come together like this and remember these times because we came on our own not because we were all drawn here.” And we were all drawn there that night for Justin. Our class reunion won’t be for another 4 1/2 years, but we should make the most of the time we’re given now to get together with our friends and family.

A week later, we met again in Colorado Springs to pay our final respects. He was given an F-15 missing man formation from the unit that he was to join later that year. This is probably the hardest thing I’ve personally been through and I know that the feeling is only magnified for his family and closest friends. Even despite this, it made me proud to be from a place where friendships form such strong bonds. It’s hard to explain to people who do not share our same experience why you need two weeks off to spend time with your passing friend’s family (thanks Mike and Melissa). I don’t know if we would have gotten that close anywhere else. I hope to have some pictures of our gathering and some words from Justin’s father, a really incredible man, next time around. A memorial fund has been established in memory of Justin and Judy Sanders. Make checks payable to Jenks High School and send to: Justin and Judy Sanders Memorial Fund, 201 East B Street, Jenks OK 74037

To lighten it up, I have some more pictures from Blair KAISER. I can always count on him to send some crazy stuff. First the AFA Superheroes. I’m hoping this was for Halloween, not just a night on the town, but he doesn’t specify. I’ll leave it up to your imagination.

the Great State of Alaska: Jenn HAMMERSTEDT is now a MX offreer there. Johan DEUTCHER, an F-15

be

to D.C. as well for AFIR Tom LIVINGSTON is the

their way to Seymour Johnson. Melissa will be separating this summer to be a full-time mom. She told me she’s about to have 365 days of leave, we expect a visit to D.C. Tim KAO cross-commissioned into the Marine Corps but managed an assignment to Peterson AFB. Brian SHUMWAY just left C-21s at Offutt AFB and is now at Little Rock flying C-130s. Kristi LOWENTHAL is working up in the History Department at USAFA and plans to wed this spring. Kerre BARKER and Amber (MASON) O’GRADY are expecting. Brian BURR is in the T-l right now at Laughlin AFB. Finally, Chris WHITE—who is going by Chris Jenson now—is finishing up his assignment in D.C. and hopes to get a job in information technology somewhere in the Middle East. You have to look up this guy’s senior picture. It’s the funniest one in the yearbook.

That’s all for now! If you are ever in D.C. give me a call. Please keep sending pics and update info with the AOG. Thanks, Mel

Melvin E. Maxwell, Jr.

PSC #80, Box 17707

APO AP 96367-7707

Work e-mail: melvin.maxwell@kadena.af.mil

Home e-mail: mel_maxwell97@hotmail.com

DSN: 315-634-1067

Commercial: 011-81-6117-33-5646

Percent members: 66

What’s going on folks? By the time this comes out it’ll be just about time that we’ve shed those silver bars for the captainvariety. Congratulations to all! Speaking of captains, Jerry HALLMAN sent me e-mail the other day. If you remember, Jerry cross-commissioned into the Army and actuallypinned on 1 Dec 2000. Jerry is currently the regiment adjutant for a heavy cavalry regiment with over 200 M1A2 tanks and several hundred Bradley FightingVehicles. He’s been a platoon leader, an executive officer, and squadron adjutant before his current position. Jerry says the West Pointers treat him well but he remains loyal to the blue and silver during Army-Air Force week. He is currently at Fort Knox but will PCS to Fort Campbell, SC for the Army’s version of Squadron Officer School. After that, Jerry may be doing a stint at West Point teaching in the history department. If anyone would like to get a hold of Jerry and hear about the “ARMY OF ONE”, let me know and I’ll pass you his contact information.

Speaking of cross-commissioning, Mehdi DARAKJY dropped me a line the other day. Mehdi is in the Marine Corps doing a seven-month rotation through Okinawa. Unfortunately, he was in the field when I finally was able to try to contact him. Hopefully I can pass on some news of his experiences come next issue.

Alright, time to talk about the blue-suiters. Last issue I told you about our class fitness queen, Tanji JOHNSON. Here is the photo I promised.

Finally other random news in stream of consciousness fashion: Corbin and Kirstin (MURRAY) SPRAKER are expecting their second child. Their first, Sierra, was born two years ago. They are both stationed at Fairchild flying helicopters. Michael MARTINEZ is a newlywed. He married a gal from Colombia. I’m still waiting to get the full scoop on that. Brent KELLY is stationed at Miami University as a ROTC instructor. You can reach him at sensational808@hotmail.com (isn’t that so B.K.—.its killin’ me). Stacy GEORGILAS is still riding her Harley all over L.A. She is hoping to finish her PhD in space or physics (something like that) sometime this next year. Can you believe that, a PHD?

Andy DODD is back in the Springs working in CE. John CORNETT is also in CE and is finishing his assignment in San Antonio. Bob and Melissa BRYANT are on

Tanji Johnson

Ben BUSCH gave me a holler from Sheppard. After serving as an engineer at Kelly AFB for two years right out of the Academy, Ben ran into some good fortune. The heart condition (a leaky valve) that kept him out of flight school was healed. He discovered it when a doctor friend of the family in San Diego had a look at his heart. He immediately went to the flight doctor at Kelly and initiated a flight physical and started scrambling to fill out paperwork. Once they finally verified the heart condition no longer existed, he sent in his application for UPT and was selected for ENJJPT. He started at Sheppard AFB in October of 1999, and graduated on 8 Dec 2000 with class 01-02 as a DG. He started IFF in March at RandolphAFB and will start RTU at Luke AFB in May. Ben’s seen a number of ’97 IPs around Sheppard including Shane HAMMACHER, Andy TAYLOR, and Chuck CREECH. He ran into Neil KISTLER in the hall who was apparently doing IFF here at Sheppard, then going on to DM for the A-10. He also corresponds with Eric FAGERLAND in the Triple Nickle over in Italy, who always has something motivational to say about what he is doing.

Wendy PALATINUS wrote from Barksdale. She was quite happyhaving pulled off the minor miracle of getting a joint spouse assignment despite the fact she wasn’t even married! Wendy is leaving the B-52 to fly KC-lOs at McGuire. By the time this is in print, she’ll have left Louisiana to marry Scott DEVENISH and then

Visit the AOG Web Site - Merchandise, Gone But Not Forgotten and More!

www.aog-usafa.org

From left are: Supergirl, Rick Wells, '91; Green Lantern, Dave Brynteson, '94; Aquaman, Todd Stearns, '94; The Flash, Blair Kaiser, '96; Jr. Miss Cowboy Cheerleader, Ty Little, '95; Superman, Jason Tone, '95; and Tone’s Superdog, Ed. News from

driver will

headed

“FinanceWJiiz” there. Blair says that he’s the quickest TDY voucher filer in the AF. Jay BICE and Jeff DILL are both C-130 Navs. Paul WILLINGHAM just left to attend JSUPT at Vance. Brent HIMES just got a 15month extension at Elmendorf. And Blair is on his way to fly the tweet—probably dreaming of Del Rio right now.

Rick Wells’ Alaska Farewell Party. From left are: Kevin McAdoo (REU ’96), Dave Brynteson, '94;Jay Bice, '96; Blair Kaiser, '96'Chris Rice, '97; “Chic” Wells, '91;Jim Tuite, '97; Brett Schumer, '98;Jason Tone, '95; and Mark Brunworth, '91.

will probably be in Travis learning to fly the KC-10 before returning back to McGuire for wedded bliss. Two more single ‘97ers bite the dust.

Speaking of marriages, Kyle MINARIK, a T-l FAIP at Vance, recently got married to Kelly Guymon of San Antonio, TX. They were married on Valentine’s Day on the Caribbean island of St. Maarten.

Kyle Minarik and his wife, Kelly, in St. Maarten.

Congratulations are also in order for Samantha GLINSKI who got engaged to Curtis Weeks who she met in Turkey last summer. They are actually both from upstate New York and grew up within an hour and half from each other. Curtis just PCSed from Wright-Pat to teach freshmen chemistry at the Academy. The wedding is planned for June.

For about a week in January, it seemed like I couldn’t walk through the passenger terminal without seeing a classmate. I saw Jen BRANNAN in the snack bar. She was in flying C-5s out of Travis. She remarked that Deron MYERS, Chad GREINER, and Nick LEONELLI also fly C-5s out ofTravis and Adrian SMITH does Intel. I ran into Matt CUNNINGHAM the next day. He flies KC-135S out of Robins AFB, GA (PCSing soon). Probably about two days later, I walked by Lane THOMPSON in flight planning. He was out of Dover with the rest ofhis C-5 crew. Then finally that weekend, Alex PUPICH (flying C-130s out ofYokota) stopped in to see my roommate Jamie MAUNZ.

Speaking of Jamie, he was down in Las Vegas in March for Red Flag. He, Brad HOLTMEIER and DJ LEARY (both still at Los Angeles AFB), and I all got together for a bash in Las Vegas. Some of the names we talked about were recently married Jay BUCK, Devin BLOSS who is now at Elmendorf, and stories of Mike SHRIEVER and his piddle pack. It was a lot of fun with an endless stream of smack talking, war stories, and “cadet jokes.” Brad is right... cadet jokes never get old. In fact, I think they get better with age.

Lastly, one of my ‘98er buddies, John BEURER (flying Hueys in Malmstrom), passed along that Mark HUDNALL and Bob FRANCIS are also up north. Alright folks, I’ve got an appointment with the Dean of Faculty. Talk to you soon... Mel.

Karin (Klein) McWhorter

118 Summerglen Ridge

Newport News, VA 23602

Home: (757) 249-3211 / DSN: 574-7989

E-mail: (W)Karin.McWhorter@Langley.af.mil (H) kleinmcwhorter@aol.com

Percent members: 61

Hello again ‘98. By the time this is printed, we should all be enjoying the beginning of our third year in the Air Force and the pay raise that goes along with it! There isn’t a lot of information for this article, so it will be a little shorter than normal. When you read this, please take a minute and send a quick e-mail.

Things are good here at Langley, but it has been a while since I have run into any classmates here. I know there are quite a few either at ACC or in the fighter squadrons, but I haven’t seen them. Protocol here is busy as usual, and I got to meet the President in February, which was cool.

I just got back from a trip to Columbus AFB, where I know there are still a few ‘98ers, but I only ran into Stu ALLEY. He is currently a T-37 IP and will go to C130s when he is done. He is also interested in the U-2 program and is about to begin the interview process. Good Luck, Stu! I thought I might run into Beth MAKROS (CRIMMEL), a T-38 student, Greg HEITPAS or Scott SMITH, both T-37 instructors, but no luck. As for me, I keep busy between work and school. I will finish my Master of Science in education this August and possibly start teaching a night class at one of the universities here. My husband is still in pilot training and we will be apart at least another year nice to see joint spouse in action! OK, on to the three updates I got this month...

The first is from Jeremy GORDON who wrote to say that he got married to a wonderful (“and obviously patient for putting up with me”) woman named Nicole (his words not mine!). She’s from Toledo, OH. They got married last September while Jeremy was in RTU at Luke. He got Vipers out of Sheppard and from Luke he got assigned to Shaw. He is currently a member of the 77th FS at Shaw. Brad KLEMESRUD is in the 79th and Brett COMER is in the 55th out here. Brett is getting married in Hawaii in August. Brad TURNER is finishing up at Luke and is on his way to Shaw in a few months. Pat MCCOY is flying C-17s out of Charleston, and Jeremy is still trying to get in touch with him. Chad BURDICK just showed up in the 77th and Scott SIETING should be out here soon.

The next update is from Joy BOSTON, who is still working air traffic control at Eielson. She wrote that Frank COOPER was at Eielson at the beginning of March for arctic survival school and Brett SCHUMER was also in his class. Jason BELL

and Bill SMITH also passed through in February on their way to Japan. She thinks they are flying KC-lOs at Travis. Joy also wrote that there was an article in Parade magazine which comes with the Sunday paper there about the military presence in Okinawa. There is a picture of Erica COTTRELL and her family, all of whom were featured in the article on Sunday, March 11. Mark HUSINGFELD (I never could spell his name!) just arrived and is flying F-16s there at Eielson.

And lastly, I heard from Matt DUNKER, who spent time this fall in Saudi where Pat FOX was getting ready to leave. Foxy loves it up here and is thinking about buying a house and asking the AF for a waiver so he can finish his commitment up here. While he was in SWA, Rob EVERT came over from GF and Rachel TUKEY came in as they were leaving. While Matt was gone, Kerrie DUNKER (GRIBUSKI) was working diligently as the head ofLogistics ofthe Grand Forks Clinic. She completed a few more classes for her master’s and trained to be a volunteer at the local crisis intervention line. John BORIA is in Grand Forks, and so are a bevy of other dominators that have shown up in the past year. Hopefully it will get warmer there soon. Matt talked with Les HAUCK, who got an F-16, and is going to Cannonwhere Ryan SAVAGEAU is already, and Doug RIGGS is going to Aviano. Billy HEPLER is now a father of a little kid, and flying B-ls in Dyess about once a month. Ok, that’s all for this quarter. I hope you are all happy and healthy. Let me know how you are doing, and send pictures if you have them. Enjoy your summer! Karin

James W. Busch

220B Polaris St.

Sheppard AFB, TX 76311

(940) 851-7994

E-mail: jbusch99@msn.com

Percent members: 64

HP

wAloha Shiners! I am actually writing this article from Hawaii, thanks to a hop from Altus to Hickam and a military rate at a cheap hotel in Waikiki. The trick will be getting back heaven forbid I have to spend a few extra days here! The best news out of Sheppard is that Travis WALTERS and Mike ANDERSON, both of whom originally started UPT in fall ‘99, are back in the program after long battles with medical issues. It’s conceivable that they could have fellow classmates as IPs in T-38s. How crazy would that be! Good luck guys and go get 'em.

Additionally, another group ofus has graduated from ENJJPT. JasonYONG, Kevin PRITZ, Greg BARASCH, and Matt RENBARGER; all got F-16s. In other pilot news, Jim OLDEN graduated from Laughlin DG and took a C-21 to Andrews with a C-17 follow-on. Monique FARNESS wrote to say that Laughlin class 01-04 is finishing up. Geoff FUKOMOTO got an F-15C, Jason OBRIEN was FAIPed back to Laughlin for T38s, and Blake JOHNSON will be enjoying some more time as a FAIP in the T1. Kari HAMILTON got a C-17 to Charleston and Jason GREENLEAF will be flying the C-21 out of Ramstein. The rest got KC-135S —Aaron WIRTZ is going to Grand Forks, Justin PAUTLER to McConnell, and Monique is going to Fairchild. There’s not too much in the way of wedding news this time around. Pat MCDONOUGH is getting hitched to a girl from dental school and Chris BACKUS and his wife, Sage, are expecting their first child in August. Chris also mentioned that Ed RIVERA got a KC-135 to Kadena. Remember that you can mail or e-mail me your pictures, and ifmy address isn’t handy go to www.usafa99.com and there is a link there to my e-mail.

I spent early January snowboarding in Tahoe with John FENWICK. When not out snowboarding, John is still a student at MIT finishing up his master’s and working for Draper labs building robots. John’s theory is, “Any number ofclasses is manageable as long as you don’t have to march to them.” Pending a successful PRK surgery John will join the student pilot ranks; otherwise he will take an engineeringjob down the road at Hanscom. John recently was stopped by the police and ticketed for running a red light on his bicycle. Be on the look for him in an upcoming episode of Cops. Seth DEAM, also finishing up his master’s (at Harvard) and who also received PRK surgery, is getting married in May. Seth too is hoping to get a UPT slot; otherwise he’ll take a job as an analyst at Eglin. That’s about it for the quarterly Cambridge update.

President's Day weekend I was visited by Sean BAERMAN, Dan DIEHL, and Rob SLANGER. Sean is in T-38s at Vance, Dan is in B-l RTU at Dyess and will follow on at Ellsworth, and Rob is in KC-135 RTU at Altus and will follow on at

Rob Slanger, me, Dan Diehl, and Sean Baerman enjoying the sunshine in North Texas over President’s Day weekend.

Grand Forks. Rob also mentioned he recendy saw Spencer BURKHAULTER get married to his bride, Christy, in Houston. At the wedding he saw Joe STAR and Kerry REDMANN. Joe is in Comm at Gunter Annex, Montgomery AL. Kerry is flying T-44s at Corpus Christi. Spencer is in T-ls at Columbus. Rob also saw Ben JONSSON wed his bride, Heather, in Annapolis, MD back in November. Ben is going to Charleston to fly the C-17. Also recendy married is David PETERS to his wife, Vanessa. They are going to Dover so Dave can fly the C-5. Jeff LAMPORT is at Altus along with Rob, and he is going to McGuire to fly the C-141. Also, Rob passed along a rumor that Shawn Hatch got his C-47 helicopter out ofFort Rucker. In other helo news, Scott NICHOLS got a MH-60 to Nellis.

Zach ARNT wrote to say he is working at a resort in Guam helping guests with various outdoor activities. I think the tourists there are in for a litde surprise. Zach got his EMT-Basic and SCUBA Divemaster certifications and is looking forward to diving the WWII wrecks around Guam.

Last but not least, let me be the first to congratulate everyone on the big step up to First Lieutenant. By all means send me pictures and stories of the pin-on parties and activities the best ones to be presented in the next exciting issue of Checkpoints. Take a minute to ponder what new responsibilities come with wearing the silver bars. Can you believe it’s been two years already? Until next time - James.

Jason “JW” Simmons

110 Mara Court Prattville, AL 36066

E-mail: Simmons@usafa.com

Percent members: 59

We are coming up on one full year of being officers and time has flown by quickly. Soon many of us will be having class of 2001 graduates coming into our squadrons or be running in to them on base. Remember, they will be looking to us for guidance, so let’s not lead them too far astray.

I’ve recently moved to Maxwell AFB, AL and been assigned to the 42ndCommunications Squadron. I am working on the Technology Team at Air University and will be headed to Keesler AFB, MS for Comm School this summer. I ran into Marta BIJZNIAK at Burger King of all places while she was on a cross-country flight from Columbus. I also bumped into Matt ASTROTH, Erik AXT, and Joann KENNEALLY at a country music club in Destin, FL. Dana HANSEN is now a personnel officer at Corry NAS, FL with Detachment 1,325th FighterWing taking care of our navs and pilot trainees, along with all the other AF folks that are stationed at Corry and Pensacola NAS. Dana is engaged to Brian Granger from the class of2001. Other classmates have emailed me with their current updates. Ryan BOWERS is a squadron section commander at the 381st Intelligence Squadron at Elmendorf AFB. She says that she will be in Alaska until 2003. Also in Alaska is Brandon ACHESON; he and his wife, Tanja, are way up north at Eielson AFB. Brandon is assigned to the 354th Communications Squadron where he is managing the Theater Battle Management Office.

Bridget O. BLANCO is getting married to Matthew GRAHAM at the end of March. It is a simple civil marriage in Anchorage; the church wedding and huge fiesta will be in Chicago in June 2002. Matt just finished Ranger School and will be an Airborne Ranger in Alaska at Ft. Richardson with the 501st Airborne. Bridget is stationed at Elmendorf AFB (right next to Ft. Richardson) and doing the AFOSI special agent thing and enjoying it. Bridget wishes to relay that she will no longer be the BOB; by the end of March she will be Bridget GRAHAM, and the O is going into retirement.

Bessie FONTENOT defended her thesis on the first of March. She was happy to be officially done with that project and just has to wait out classes at CSU. Laura TERRY and Jen ENGH are still there also and doing great in their programs. Jason HOFFMAN has been at Sheppard AFB, TX for AMOC training for the last few months, but plans to return to his squadron at Mountain Home AFB, Idaho. When he returns he will be in charge of the Ammo Flight with 250 enlisted troops.

Jenny STEHWIEN and Mike LEWIS were engaged in February. The wedding will take place in October. Jenny is working at Randolph AFB as an aerospace physiologist and Mike is currently at Laughlin AFB in pilot training. ROB ELLIS, currently at Goodfellow AFB in INTEL school, will be graduating in late June. He enjoyed ABC back in August and is looking forward to leaving San Angelo, TX. He’ll find out where he is headed closer to graduation.

Micaela (BENTSON), now BRANCATO, will finish up her Gold Bar assignment at Texas Tech in July 2001. Then she will PCS to a tanker/transport base (depending on her husband’s completion of pilot training) to begin Aircraft Maintenance. Amy M. RIVERA is finishing up her tour as Gold Bar here at Rochester Institute ofTechnology, and will be PCSing to Lackland AFB for her next assignment where she will be for the next two years as a Security Forces Officer. JOY SHUCK (HARWOOD) completed the T-37 track just recently and is now in T-l training at Columbus AFB, MS.

I talked recently with Jeremy EGGERS, who said the following: I’m off to ABC in about a week I’m looking forward to the vacation. Also, I think a few of us will be able to swing down to Florida to see some of the folks who are currently APT there. Haven’t heard or kept in touch with too many people. Went to the movie “Thirteen Days” recently and ran into Jim MARION while there he’s on his way to pilot training. Jon-Michael KERESTES finished up tech school in San Antonio and is heading back to Langley, where he will be “in charge” of some 80 folks.

Dorothy DELUZ is stationed at Schriever with me she is doing all kinds of good deeds in the community (soup kitchen, etc.), but says her job is a little boring. Eli BREMER is heading off on some boon TDY to Mexico City to participate in the World Cup. He’s hoping the World-Class athlete program moves to three years, in which case, he’ll stay in the Springs and work on his Pentathlon skills.

Anyway, everyone seems to be doing fine. Everyone’s getting hitched left and right some of you have already had children! Jeff SCOTT registered on the class Website (USAFA2000.com for you slackers who haven’t registered yet) and mentioned that a son is on the way.

Speaking of weddings, the here is a picture is from Chuck YEAGER's wedding. Chuck is currently in UPT at Columbus. In December, he married Danielle TUTT (c/o 1999). Classmates present, from left, were Brian PETERSON (ENJPT at Sheppard AFB), John TRUMM (Casual at Pope AFB, waiting for UPT at Columbus), Joe BONNER (UPT at Columbus AFB), and Daniel MORTENSEN (Grand Forks AFB as an engineer).

Derek WILLIAMS recently got married see photo (my apologies to Derek and his family as I have lost the outline information for the picture blame it on the upgrade to AOL 6.0). I believe his wife’s name is Heather.

Mark VANWEEZENDONK is nearing the end of Intel school and will be stationed at Lackland AFB, TX. Edie POPE is already there the two plan to be married in late October.

That’s it for me the following is from Aaron LAPP, who is surviving ENJPT at Sheppard AFB: “On 30 Dec 2000 friends and family gathered in Colorado Springs to celebrate the marriage of Kerrick KRILL and Erin Sherwood. The festivities began with the rehearsal dinner at Colorado favorite Beau Jo’s pizza. With the all-you-caneat dinner behind them, the wedding party and saber bearers prepared for a traditional cadet chapel service. The wedding went without a hitch and Erin was welcorned to the Air Force family as she walked out ofthe chapel on Kerrick’s arm.

‘Following the ceremony was a spectacular reception at Patty Jewett Golf Club, which included plenty ofdining, dancing, and a tear-jerking speech by the groom himself. Included in the wedding party were Kerrick who just started pilot training at Sheppard, and his groomsman, Scooter WHITE, who is currently acting as guineapig for the T-6ATexan test program at Randolph and loving the extra hours. The saber bearers included: Aaron LAPP, who is finally through with his T-37 lowlevel check-ride at Sheppard; JeffSMITH, who is at Columbus and the owner of a brand new (slightly scuffed) motorcycle; Tom BOWMAN, who is waiting to start pilot training at Del Rio; and Brian UNKS, who recently started at Sheppard; Mike LEWIS at Del Rio who is recently engaged to Jen STEHWIEN who was also in attendance; and Carl HAGGERTY also newlyengaged to Danielle KOVACS. Other class of2000 members in attendance were Henry SCHANTZ, who recentlypassed his first check ride at Sheppard; Jose CASTANEDA, who while waiting for pilot training is working in life support at Sheppard (keep up the good work!); and Matt PHILLIPS, who managed to pull himselfaway from his graduate school textbooks long enough to join us. All had a good time especially Jeffwho managed to steal three or four dances with the new bride.”

If you want to let everyone know what you have been doing, send me a message at Simmons@USAFA.com or Jason.Simmons@Maxwell.af.mil.

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