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VIDAL SASSOON

CHECKPOINTS

contents winter 2002

up front 5

ON THE COVER: THE TORCH ARRIVES Photo By Ken Wright

BOARDROOM TALK

letters

VIC APODACA IS REMEMBERED

from the past

SOLDIER’S LEGACY LIVES ON

columns

SUPERINTENDENT’S NOTES

MAKING A DIFFERENCE (Development)

MERCHANDISE

FYI (Services)

CHAPTER NEWS

WALDO

SPORTS

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN

CLASS NEWS

features cover

THE FIRE WITHIN

Cadet First Class Warren Halle carries the Olympic torch across the terrazzo with extreme

spotlight

pride and passion for his country.

ENGAGING THE ENEMY-AIRMANSHIP AT ITS BEST!

Maj. Henry Thompson, ’87 has been named the winner of the Jabara Award for his outstanding contributions to airpower.

perspective

ACADEMY LOSES ONE OF ITS OWN

Father of Cadet Third Class Matthew Knight pays special tribute to his son’s

profile

spirit and the Academy family.

BRIG. GEN. (RET.) PHIL ERDLE BECOMES HONORARY MEMBER

Phil Erdle has given over 40 years of devoted service and support to

up Close

the Academy and cadets.

AN OFFICER, GENTLEMAN, AND A SCHOLAR

Cadet First Class Charles M. Trickey has been awarded the Marshall Scholarship, one of the nation’s most prestigious scholastic honors.

football

WHAT REALLY MATTERS

Winning isn’t everything. If there’s anyplace where perspective should be the price of admission to a game, the Air Force Academy is it. Volume 30, number 4

contents

continued...

U.S. Air Force Academy Association of Graduates 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475

Receptionist

(719) 472-0300

Fax

(719) 333-4194

DSN

333-4513

E-mail

aog@aog-usafa.org http://www.aog-usafa.org

Answering Machine (719) 333-2073

Website

off the shelf 8

Executive

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

Offices

Executive Assistant: Pat Buland

Controller: Mike Cavanaugh Accountant: Joyce Love

Secretary: Leah Burrows Receptionist: Michelle Cowan Development

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

LEGACY OF DISCORD

GAME OF LIFE

HOT SHOTS

CONTRIBUTORS

CADET FOR A DAY

LT. GEN. STEIN REMEMBERED

’69 GRAD. RECEIVES TUSKEGEE AWARD

CODE OF HONOR

CADET IDEAS

DIGGING FOR DIAMONDS

BIG BROTHERS AND BIG SISTERS

WINGS OF BLUE

ESTATE PLANNING

ANNIVERSARY STAMP

Administrative Assistant: Rita Baker

Director, Annual and Class Giving: Chery Flores Annual and Class Giving: Michael Brown

Corporate Giving: Gary Howe Gift Processing: Sandra Luckhurst/Dawn Wallick Major Giving: Gary Howe/Russ Laney Matching Gifts: Sandra Luckhurst Memorial/Endowment Funds: Michael Brown Pavers: Michael Brown

Planned Giving: Gary Howe Sabre Society: Becky Hureau, Kathy McCann

Information

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

Services

Computer Systems: Lt. Col. (Ret.) Jack Mueller, ’70 Programmer/Analyst: Lt. Col. (Ret.) Rich Trentman, ’81 Database Coordinator: Don McCarthy

External

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

Communications

Director of Marketing & Media: Bob McAllister

Media Designer: Sarah Wright

BASEBALL IN HIGH GEAR

Checkpoints and Register of Graduates Advertising: Dick Rauschkolb/Bob McAllister

AIR FORCE AND ARMY MEET ON ICE

Assistant Editor: Tom Kroboth

CROSS COUNTRY IN REVIEW

COLLEGE FOOTBALL HONORS SPIRIT OF

Multimedia Specialist: Ken Wright

Website: Ken Wright

Chapter News: Marty Marcolongo, ’88 Class News: Tom Kroboth/Ken Wright

Services

sports

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

ACADEMIES

Associate Membership: John Rice

Business Rescource Directory (SABRD): Wayne Taylor Bio Updates: John Rice

Cadet Membership: Don McCarthy

Chapters/Societies: Marty Marcolongo, ’88 Class Reunions: Lani Wing/Donna Porter Class Rings: Donna Porter Grad. Dependent Scholarships: Lani Wing

Golf Reservations: Steve Knight Graduate Membership: John Rice Label/List Requests: Chuck Denham Merchandise Sales: Celeste Storie

CHECKPOINTS (ISSN 0274-7391) USPS 898-080 is published quarterly in March, June, September and December by the Association of Graduates, U.S. Air 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 of which the magazine subscription annually accounts for $10. Single copies of CHECKPOINTS for members $2.50. Periodicals postage paid at the U.S. Air Force Academy, CO and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to CHECKPOINTS, Association of Graduates, Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Dr., USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475.

Rental Car Cards: John Rice Reservations (Doolittle Hall): Jean Bickford Resume Service (JSARDS): Wayne Taylor

Saber Rental: Steve Knight SACC: Wayne Taylor

Death

Notices: Pat Buland

Notification

Obituaries: Tom Kroboth

Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policy or attitude of the Association of Graduates, its officers or the editorial staff. The appearance of advertisements in this publication does not constitute an endorsement by the Association of Graduates of the products or services advertised. Copyright, Association of Graduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy, WINTER 2002. 3

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iostens

PERSPECTIVE

for 2001. Additional Distinguished Graduates selected in the

invite you to sit back, relax, and enjoy another great

ates

issue of your Association’s magazine.

A quick scan

coming years, as well as other noteworthy individuals will be rec-

will tell you it’s full of pertinent articles and informa-

ognized as the trail expands. Credit for conceiving and developing

from insightful comments by the

the Heritage Trail goes to our Board member, General (Ret) Ron

tion you can use

Superintendent, to inspirational words from last year’s Jabara

Yates, ’60 chair of our Heritage and Traditions Committee.

Award winner, to heart-warming experiences by cadets who

nothing gets done without funding, and for that

exemplify “Service Before Self.

the Classes o ’69 and ’73 for their generous support of the Heritage

And speaking of the Jabara Award, hearty congratulations to our 2002 winner, Major Henry C. Thompson, ’87

who made

exceptional contributions to airpower during

operations

Northern Watch

Trail.

we are

Finally,

indebted to

Many thanks for making this meaningful addition possible.

A final word regarding the Distinguished Graduate Award nations are still being accepted for the 2002 cycle.

nomi-

(See page 31 for

Major

details). I urge you to take the time to talk with classmates and friends

Thompson will be recognized formally during our Found-

about deserving individuals who might be nominated. Don’t assume

ers’ Day ceremonies in early April. That is also when we will

“someone else” will do the paperwork. Take a personal interest and

recognize the first winners of our Distinguished Graduate

ensure a

and Allied Force.

package is completed for your proposed nominee.

Award (General Ron Fogleman, ’63 and Mr. Harry Pearce,

Fet me close with a word of thanks to the 14 members of our

’64). So, if you can make it to the Academy for Founders

Board of Directors who volunteer their time, talent and treasure to

Day, I encourage you to do so. It will be a BIG event!

serve our Association

Related to Founders’

Day and Academy heritage, the

AOG has commenced work

Heritage Trail, which

begins at the Pegasus Circle in front of Doolittle Hall and proceeds north alongside the building. Eventually it will proceed further north to a viewing area with a panoramic view of the Cadet area. The first individuals to be recognized on

the Heritage Trail will be our two Distinguished Gradu

with distinction! And to Jim Shaw, 69’ and the

AOG staff who are doing a marvelous job of running the organization

day-to-day. It is a real pleasure to work with these professionals. I look forward to an exciting 2002, with opportunities for further success

and support to our members, the Cadets, and the Academy.

Best Wishes, Ft. Gen. (Ret) Mark Anderson, ’61

Board Chairman

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

COVER STORY

The Fire Within Story by Ken Wright, AOG Photo by Staff Sgt. Ben Bloker, USAFA

adet First Class Warren

At Nellis, Halle learned

Halle is a proud man.

that leadership was present at

He’s proud to be an American,

proud

to be a cadet and

to be a leader in his

every echelon within the Air

Force. “I loved my job and the

proud

people I worked with while I

community.

On the afternoon of January

was

enlisted. I feel that there are

thousands cheered

just as many excellent leaders

him on, Halle embodied all of

in the enlisted force as there

those things when he carried

are in

31, 2002,

the officer ranks... Some

the 2002 Olympic torch along

of the best leaders I have seen

the perimeter of the Terrazzo at

were

the U.S. Air Force Academy.

learned from them the amazing

Just a few months

efficiency of simply leading by

from earning a pair of gold

example,” Halle attests.

lieutenants bars, Halle is no

stranger

my supervisors at Nellis. I

It wasn’t long before

leading the pack.

the young Airman First

In fact, that’s exactly why his

Class learned of the

roommate, C1C Keith

headers Encourage Airmen

Young,

nominated him to carry the

Development Program

torch. “Fots of people learn

(FEAD), which offers the

how to lead from books,

speakers, and such. But few are born with it

Flanked by thousands of cheering cadets, Cadet First Class Warren Halle carries the Olympic torch along the Academy Terrazzo.

Warren is one of

opportunity for outstanding enlisted airman to attend the Academy and earn a

those few,” said Young. “If I were to pick one person to have at

commission as an Air Force officer. “My dreams of flying

my side while fighting the enemy, I would choose Warren.”

the aircraft rather than maintaining them is what brought

hike the constant flame within the torch’s crown glass,

here,” said Halle. By July 1997, he was assigned to the

Halle’s desire for excellence has burned from the very beginning

USAFA Preparatory School where he served as the Cadet

of his Air Force career. Unlike the path from high school that

Candidate Group Commander for one year before entering

the majority of cadets follow to the “Zoo,” the meandering

with the Class of 2002.

road that Halle took was filled with lessons in leadership and

The lessons in leadership learned during his enlisted

perseverance. During the fall of 1995, he first wore Air Force

tenure were obvious to those around him

blue as an enlisted airman. After graduating with honors from

C1C Rob Hamilton, Fall ’01 Cadet Wing Commander,

F-16 Armament Technical School, he landed at Nellis Air Force

remembers his Prep School next door neighbor as one who,

Base, Nev. for his first active duty assignment.

“... let his actions do the majority of his talking. His best

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

in Prep School.

COVER STORY

way of leading was through his example.”

Halles Air Officer Commanding, Maj. Phil O’Neal, was not

surprised to find out that the cadet wing selected

him (Halle) to represent them in this momentous event. “Warren possesses all the desired traits of an outstanding Air Force leader—many of which he developed as an enlisted airman. He has

“I rarely am perfect in

Fun with

the^fllun

Here are a few facts about the torch relay you

may not have known:

done an outstanding

anything, not discourage me from

job taking care of

his subordinates

Nov. 19, 2001, using the rays of the sun.

at least

and peers in the

but that does

good.

trying to be damn

”

squadron.” O’Neal also cites

C1C WARREN HALLE

Olympic flame, ignited in Olympia, Greece,

33 inches is the length of the torch. The weight is 3.5 lbs.

Halle’s enthusiasm and dedication as reasons for his selection. As a Second Classman Halle scored a near-perfect 493 points on his Physical Fitness Test during his first semester. His outstanding score earned

him an exemption from taking the test the following semester,

however he chose to face the grueling challenge again the next semester for a second chance at

13,500 miles is the distance of the flame’s 65-day journey to Salt Lake City, Utah.

27 minutes is the length of time

fully fueled

torch will burn. A butane/propane mix is used to produce a bright flame.

perfection. The result—500

points! A feat he has attained five times since Prep School. Humble about having the honor of representing the Cadet

46 states, 250 cities, including 22 state capitals, were visited by the flame.

Wing as he carried the torch, Halle believes he was not nominated for being perfect at everything he does, but rather

335 dollars is the cost of each torch.

because he never gives up on himself or his fellow cadets when the going gets tough. “I rarely am perfect in anything, said the

Deadwood, South Dakota native, but that does not discourage me

from at least trying to be damn good.” The historic jog was an overwhelming experience for the

“Firstie” as he made his away along the Terrazo donned in

his blue and white Olympic jogging suit. “I already knew that

serving my country felt good, but on days like today, as I rose on the ramp, I was reminded with vigor how great it is to be a part

of a righteous brotherhood... That feeling of trust, camaraderie

85 percent of torchbearers purchase their torch.

12 inches is the approximate height of the torch’s flame.

8 minutes is the average time it takes each torchbearer to complete their segment of the

relay. Each torchbearer must carry their torch for a minimum of 0.2 miles.

and devotion leaves an unspoken exchange that says, ‘I don’t need to ask and I never will, because I know, I know you will

210,000 torchbearer nominations

always be there.’”

were

Like General George S. Patton Jr., Halle believes he is

“always

received by the Olympic Committee. Only

11,520 were accepted.

parade.” On this particular day in January, his feeling

could be no more true.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER

2002

BOOK REVIEW

LEGACY OF Dorland, Gil. Legacy ofDiscord-. Voices of the Vietnam Era.

Washington, D.C.: Brassey’s, 2001. By Major Benjamin F. Jones Dept, of History “It is a tale.

full ofsound andfury, signifying noth

ing. ’’-William Shakespeare, MacBeth, Act V, Scene V.

Recalling Shakespeare’sa line, Legacy ofDiscord is a

Voices of the Vietnam War Era

lot of very good material but lacks historical context. West Point

graduate and Vietnam veteran Gil

Dorland interviewed an impressive list of prominent Americans

and Vietnamese for his book and

they continue an argument 25 years after the fall of

Saigon. The arguing is useful; nations that lose wars should seriously ponder why. Perhaps if America answers

those questions some redemption will be

found for those who came home and the decision makers who sent them there.

While Legacy ofDiscord sharpens the argument, it does not end this crucial debate. Dorland organizes the book by interviews with many prominent

participants including Henry Kissinger, Roger Hilsman, William Westmoreland, John Kerry, and Mike Davison. He shows the reader just how deep the discord is. The notable exception is Robert S. McNamara. He did not agree to participate with Mr.

Dorland, perhaps because he’s said all he cares to with In Retrospect (1995). Many interviewed believe the United States could have won; others think the war was

lost before it began. The most controversial

interviewees are the journalists. Peter Arnett and

David Halberstam continue to demonstrate pride in their reporting. The most riveting interview is with Daniel Ellsberg who casts accusations far and wide

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

BOOK REVIEW

DISCORD Those who fought, protested, reported, and decided the course of the Vietnam war discuss one of the most tragic and divisive periods in American history.

but leaves something to be desired, namely corroboration commensurate with his claims. Perhaps someday,

profound. The various statements, some startling,

bring out the book’s largest weakness: the lack of histori-

historian will come along the caliber of H. R. McMaster

cal context. If one is looking for raw views, this is the

to round out what Dereliction ofDuty (1997) outlines

place. But if one is not a serious student of the war, many

depressingly well and frame what Ellsberg says here

of the interviews fall flat. Legacy ofDiscord aches for rich

within the war’s history. Many may recall Tom Hayden’s

footnotes or an afterward to every interview in order to

strident protest of nearly everything but the kitchen sink.

complete the context. Absent such historical framing,

Dorland finds him continuing along much the same.

the book seems to be a missed opportunity amid unique

The combatants in the war, John Kerry, Barry McCaffrey,

potential. Only those who have read widely about the war,

John McCain, Norman Schwarzkopf, and James Webb

Southeast Asia, and the era’s domestic politics, will glimpse

give the book some depth of humanity as they shoot

the gift this book is. Absent further context, all the reader

down many myths. For example, Schwarzkopf believes

will discern is the discord.

the South Vietnamese Army was far from incompetent

and shares his pride in having served with them (p. 204),

Gil Dorland

McCaffrey qualifies the drug problems (p. 157). McCain is probably a typical war vet in that he had no painful

“flashbacks” (p. 174). Something unfortunately missing from most American books of this topic is the Vietnamese view.

Former Viet Cong Le Ly Hayslip and Cau Le, a

highly decorated South Vietnamese soldier and POW of the Communists for over 13 years, add important voices.

Dorland’s writing style is very casual; it’s easy to

imagine being there during the interview. His personal “war stories” during Vietnam sometimes get in the way, but when all is said and done, it’s a strength. He knows more

than a writer who had not served in Vietnam why

this book should be written. While his constant flip from present to past tense is a bit jarring, that is a minor fault

when assessing the book. The major fault is somewhat

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

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BEHIND THE SCENES

Five

youth

Story by Lee Mazzarella Photo by Colbert's Photography

coach

the

Rams

Rampart

football team and teach the youngsters "The Game of Life".

he United States Air Force

and enthusiasm with novice players. They were

season

Academy and its corps of

great coaches and they were great role models:

Besides teaching the technical mechanics of

clean cut, polite, prompt, prepared, positive,

playing football, the cadets taught the lessons of living a successful life, “Play fair, but hard.

cadets set

high standards for

themselves. When they do not

patient and encouraging.

attain those goals, the media seems to dwell on

senior cadets

the shortfalls, rather than focus on their

were

would still have been a success.

After the Sept. 11 attack when the cadets

Always do your best

permitted off base to resume coaching, I

Never, never, ever quit.”

many daily successes. Ed like to annotate one

overheard one of the players ask if the cadet/

of those successes by commending the five

coach was afraid.

—

it’s all that’s expected.

I’m proud that my boys could associ-

ated with such fine young men; Cadet 1st

senior cadets who coached the Rampart Rams

Without bravado, but in a confident

Class Hassan Campbell, head coach; Cadet

13 year-old football team. Despite stringent

voice, the cadet replied, “No, the people who

1st Class Tony Straw, offensive coordinator;

demands on their time (academic, athletic

did this need to be afraid.”

Cadet 1st Class Matt Wolthoff, defensive

and military), these fine young men devoted

The Rams lost six consecutive games. In

coordinator; Cadet 1st Class Joel Thigpen,

2-4 hours per day, four days per week, for ten

the closing plays of the fourth quarter of the

line coach; and Cadet 1 st Class Rod Faulk,

weeks, to their coaching duties.

final game of the season, the Rams were losing

quarterback coach. The parents who raised

In an era of super entertainers, ath-

19-7. Then all the practice, positive reinforce-

them to be such high quality individuals

letes and politicians who only seem to ask,

ment, and the encouragement came to frui-

should be proud, the Academy who recruited

“What’s in it for me?” it was pleasantly

tion. Touchdown, missed extra point, onside

them should be proud, and Americans, who expect high standards in Air Force officers,

refreshing to watch these five young enthu-

kick recovered, drive, touchdown, successful

siastic cadets. They volunteered their time

extra

and talents, just because they loved football

drive and secure the Rams’ win 20-19.

and wanted to share that love and knowledge

point, interception to stop the opponent’s

SfS

should be proud.

Without the fairy tale ending, the Rams’

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

Soaring into the Future NEW GLIDERS TO ENHANCE ACADEMY SOARING PROGRAM

DAWN ’TIL DUSK Cadets prepare a glider from the academy’s aging fleet for an early morning flight along the Rampart Range.

By Maj. Joey Medlin, 90 Photographs by Ken Wright, AOG ince 1964, the Soaring Program has been an integral

placed on the programs due to the physical limitations

part of the Academy. This program, which first started as a club, has grown into an Air Force squadron and pro-

of the aircraft. “It didn’t pass the common sense test to

vides flying opportunities to more than 2000 cadets annu-

could not support a growing number of cadets when

ally. For the majority of its existence, the TG-4 (Schweizer 2-33) has been the primary workhorse of the 94th Flying Training Squadron’s fleet. Some of the current TG-4’s have been in service at the Academy since 1971. The “yellow glider” has become a very recognizable part of the Academy landscape, and has served the Soaring Program well. However, that changed this year. In March 2002, the 94 FTS will begin accepting deliveries of its new glider fleet. As early as 1992, it was recognized that the current fleet of gliders and motorgliders supporting the Academy’s aviation programs was beginning to show wear and would need to be replaced. However, it wasn’t until August 1999 that the current effort to replace the fleet began. th Shortly after taking command of the 94 then Maj. Joe Pacheco’83, began looking at the rising cost of maintaining the fleet, the problems that were associated with the age of the aircraft, and the operational limits that were

modern aircraft are fully capable, much safer, and less

continue to dedicate significant resources to a fleet that

expensive to operate,” said Lt. Col. Joe Pacheco, 34th Operations Group, Deputy Commander. The core program of the 94 th is Soar For All. This program, begun in the early 80’s, is designed to offer every cadet at the Academy the opportunity to fly, and hoperd

fully solo, a glider during his/her 3 class year. However, the TG-4 is limited by payload and cockpit size. So, athletes and some larger cadets are often denied the opportunity to participate in this program. Our cadets have made a commitment to the Air Force and their country, far in excess of the majority of their peers. We needed to make a similar commitment to them, and that required an

integrated fleet of aircraft with expanded capabilities.

There is no better place for our future leaders to begin

their military aviation experience than the Academy air-

field, according to Pacheco. Program managers wanted to

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

OFF WE GO

A cadet

keeps pace with a glider at take-off to ensure the

wings do not touch the ground.

give cadet instructor pilots a safer platform from which to operate. The acquisition process has taken a long time because this is the first fleet replacement the Soaring Program has ever undertaken. Everyone involved wanted to

The new fleet will be composed of the Blanik L-23

Super (TG-10B), the L-13AC (TG-10C), and

the L-33 Solo (TG-10D). All of which are available to

the average consumer as a commercial item. Many

believe this “family” of aircraft will provide a signifi-

make sure it was done right. There have been many players in this effort. The Air Staff, particularly those folks at Operational

Training, gave guidance throughout the entire process, ensuring no shortcut was ever taken. The Air

increase in safety and participation while reducing maintenance costs. Due to the commonality of aircraft, there will be less transition training and time cant

required for a cadet instructor pilot to be qualified in additional aircraft. This will allow the 94 th to offer its cadet instructor pilots advanced flying opportunities,

including an introduction to aerobatics and crosscountry flight. The next step is to replace the fleet of motorgliders.

The current motorglider fleet is composed of the

TG-7 (Schweizer 2-37) and the TG-11 (Stemme S-

10V). The TG-7s support the Soar For All program and have been in service since 1981. The TG-1 Is arrived in 1993 and support the cross-country program. Both of those aircraft will be replaced with a single motorglider capable of performing both missions. This activity will also take place next year.

The first of the newTG-10 gliders are scheduled to arrive in March 2002. Look to say good-bye to the wellworn

HOOKED ON FLYING a

and loved current fleet by September 2002.

Giving the hand signal for the student pilot to open

hook on the nose of the aircraft, a cadet attaches a 200-foot nylon rope

that runs from the powered aircraft to the glider.

Force Operational Test and Evaluation Center evalu-

ated the aircraft for suitability in USAFA’s programs

and even made recommendations on improving flight

operations. A Soaring Program office was established at Wright-Patterson AFB to oversee the entire acquisition process. Finally, in September of this year a Source Selection Committee met to evaluate the bids

submitted by several aircraft manufacturers. In the

Courtesy Blanik America, Inc.

end, Blanik America was awarded the contract to provide 21 new gliders to the Academy.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

BEHIND THE SCENES

Distance adets at the Academy are expanding their knowledge

C military operations of

and world affairs by traveling

Cadets are able to gain a wider perspective through

sharing classes with other institutions not only here in the

abroad and attending classes with students from other

U.S., but also around the world. “We do more than just

service academies and universities around the world—and

classroom instruction through VTC, Wells added. “We’ve

it’s costing the Academy practically nothing.

brought in guest speakers to give lectures on military affairs. We have even had students go through a tour of

The Video Teleconferencing Center (VTC) in Fairchild Hall has bridged

NASA via video

the gap in learning

teleconferencing.

experiences by

Such visits enable

pulling worldwide classrooms together

cadets to ask the

under one roof. “It’s

participate in the

great, what we can

tour.

guide questions and It is literally

do here,” said Rob

the next best thing

Wells, VTC and

Academic Media

By using video

Director.

over

thought it would be a

being there.

teleconferencing

Wells always

the past year,

the Academy saved

great experience

huge amount of

for the cadets

money on travel

and faculty to

time and costs,

see

how other

according to Wells.

service academies conduct their classes and lectures. “Video

teleconferencing

saves

the Academy an enormous amount of

time and money. Each of the service academies has similar

The center saves staff and faculty time and money, as well. Students appreciate the technology and experience

learning for cadets, and with the current technology, they

they gain, however the VTC also has the secondary purpose of hosting command staff briefings. Instead of flying someone to Washington D.C. for a briefing, the VTC can host a video teleconference without anyone ever leaving the cadet area. This eliminates travel costs for a two or three day trip. Conversely, a video teleconference might take an hour or two. The tremendous savings are obvious. “The center has already paid for itself many times over through the money saved from travel

(cadets) are about as “connected” as students can get.

expenses alone,” said Wells.

classes, such as a History 101 class. We thought it would be

interesting to see how they’re teaching their classes,” said the 16 year Academy employee. The VTC is nearly one year old and costs about $25,000 to install and set

up. Operating at 384 kilobytes per second,

the system is highly advanced with real time video, audio and

data collaboration capabilities. Its primary purpose is distance

Story by Supunnee Ulibarri, USAFA PA 14

”

T Photo Illustration by Ken Wright, AOG

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

UP CLOSE

2001 Jabara Winner understands how to be part of a team By Major Julian “Nuttman” Chestnut, ’89

team in

ol James Jabara was the fighter pilot’s fighter pilot,

formed their duties and have the skill to accomplish their portion of

and I’m very humbled to receive the award named

the mission. Once again, the Academy emphasizes the need to trust

for him. He understood how to be part of a team,

your classmates and to work as a team, from the leadership reaction

lead a team, and how to act individually to assist the

course to

achieving

well in the RAF.

the Academy’s focus on teamwork and trusting your classmates

I was never a natural pilot—I’ve always struggled to get

and squadronmates is directly transferable to the RAF (“Real” Air Force). During combat, and in training for that matter, my

squadronmates did all the heavy lifting—they picked up the slack and filled the gaps to get the mission accomplished. Unless individuals work as a team, and trust the members of that team, failure

in combat is pre-ordained. Airpower is effective only when indi-

viduals perform their duties while looking out for their teammates .

and from day one, the Academy stresses looking out for your class-

mates. Within a week of

coming to the Academy, you learned to help

out the classmate who couldn’t shine shoes or memorize Schofield’s

quote. At the same time, you trusted that the same classmate would

be there for you when you needed help preparing for a SAMI or

deflecting some “extra attention” from upper class cadets. Effective Airpower also relies on trust—trust that your teammates have per-

survival training and many events in between. The stage

may be different at the Academy, but the concepts apply equally

greater goal. I’m glad to report firsthand that

though my formal flying training successfully. That being the rely heavily on the talents of my flight mates to secure mission success—in combat and in training. The night of 31 th May 1999 was a perfect example. My squadron, the 333 “Triple Nickel” Fighter Squadron was tasked to strike a Special Operations Training Facility a few miles outside of Belgrade, Yugoslavia. I was excited and a little nervous about leading a four-ship of F-16s—the first time I’d done so in combat. I had the good fortune to fly with several brave and talented pilots that night. My wingman was Capt Carmine “Ragu” Punziano (USAFA ’95), the element lead was Capt Todd “Feif” Ericson (USAFA ’91) and his wingman was Capt Mike “Thud” Thode (USAFA ’95). Leif has since gone on to be a test pilot—he case, I

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

UP CLOSE

always had “global situational awareness” and I completely trusted his judgment. He was my neighbor and friend, and would always lend a helping hand to anyone who needed it— the kind of guy who looked out for his squadronmates. Thud and Ragu were a couple years younger than I, but in two months of flying over Yugoslavia, they had truly become veteran combathardened Viper Drivers. I didn’t think about it at the time, but our formation was comprised completely of USAFA grads. We launched from Italy—the weather was terrible, and Leif helped

Dawg is a Fighter Weapons School instructor, truly one of the best F-16 pilots in the Air Force. He positioned his aircraft perfectly and fired a High Speed Anti-Radiation Missile (HARM) at exactly the right

find our tanker in Hungary-it had moved from its original

for the F-16 pilots and a testament to the training we all received. Of

aerial refueling position due to thunderstorms. After getting gas, we pushed into Yugoslavian airspace; our flight led a three-

time-the time when I was most vulnerable to counterattack from the SAM battery. His missile scored a direct hit on the SA-6 radar-clear-

ing the way for me to continue my attack on the missile launcher itself. My classmate, Dawg, really came through when I needed his expertise the most. I’ll be buying him beer for the rest of my life for that HARM shot. I’ve never experienced such great aerial teamwork—a real triumph

Ragu led the mission into Belgrade and “his” formation scored 100% hits on the Special Operations Facility.

note,

About a month earlier, over Kosovo and on my second Forward

pronged strike package of over 40 NATO jets. We knew we would get shot at as soon as we neared Belgrade. Leif and Thud, flying in a trail formation, were the first to spot the incoming

Air Controller-Airborne (FAC-A) Mission, I was lucky enough to again

SA-6 surface-to-air missiles (SAMs). Without their alertness and

sion (it was my FAC-A checkride) was Maj Gerald “Buster” Lanagan

be a part of an incredible aerial team effort. My instructor for this mis-

their timely threat warnings, Ragu and I proba-

bly would not have had the precious few seconds to evade the missiles.

After evading the missiles with some

aggressive defensive maneuvers, Ragu and I were split up by several miles. I spotted the SA-6 site using my night vision goggles. I had about 2 seconds to make up my mind if I was going to attempt to attack the SAM site or keep searching for Ragu. When Ragu

requested to press to the target, I decided to continue the attack on the SAM. Ragu led the

3-ship formation into Belgrade-despite not even being a qualified flight lead. He really stepped up to the plate and hit a pinch-hit homerun. He remained extremely cool under pressure, despite his flight lead (me) leaving him in a tough position. Leif and Thud quickly reformed on Ragu, providing him with better mutual support, and my flight pressed to Belgrade without me. Leif, as expected, was “filling in the gaps” that my departure from the formation had created.

(USAFA ’87), another Fighter Weapons School graduate and quite

unanimously regarded as the best pilot in the squadron. We worked with another FAC-A formation, led by Maj. Mike “Cujo” Greenfied with his wingman, Maj. Kurt “Huevos” Gallegos. During our first sweep of the area, we were told that the Predator Unmanned Aerial

I was worried about them of course, but I had total trust

Vehicle (UAV) had seen a SA-6 transporter-erector-launcher pull into

that between the three of them, they could hit their targets

and get in and out of Belgrade successfully. However, I was

significantly less confident about my ability to successfully attack the SA-6 and escape unscathed. That’s when a classmate of mine

REALLY “filled in the gaps.”

Maj. Steve “Dawg” Kennel (USAFA ’89), flying an F16CJ, was our Suppression of Enemy Air Defense (SEAD)

building. Cujo and Buster asked if the Predator could provide better coordinates so that we could pinpoint the building. We didn’t know it at the time, but we were about to be the first pilots to get a “talk-on” to a target by an unmanned aircraft. No one had planned for such a contingency. The communications had to be relayed from our jet, to the Airborne Battlefield Command and Control Center (ABCCC)

aircraft, then the Combined Air Operations Center, and finally to the

and he saved my bacon during the attack on

Predator pilot in Tuzla. Buster and I would search for 45 minutes, usu-

the SAM site. Lucky for me, and the rest of the NATO strike

ally eliminating a few possibilities before we had to hand-off the search to Cujo and Huevos as we went to get gas from a KC-135 over Macedonia.

commander

package, we had Dawg flying SEAD commander that night. 16

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER

2002

UP CLOSE

This tag-team method continued for over 3 hours. Through the ingenu-

ity of Buster and Cujo, and many others, we finally made it happen and eventually located and destroyed the building containing the SA-6. After validating the technique, the FAC-As routinely used the Predator to find tactical targets in Kosovo for the remainder of the conflict. Both these examples were relatively complex aerial events.

jEditor’s Note

Both had many moving parts—one part not functioning properly

could have turned the successful mission into failure

...

tragedy.

What if the tanker pilot would have given up and returned home

due to the thunderstorms (as he or she probably should have)? What if the HARM had not been armed by the weapons crew chief

In our last issue we

properly? What if the ABCCC crew had not jury-rigged the com-

recognized our outgoing Board members. Unfor-

munications so we could talk to the Predator pilot. Many people

had to do their job exceptionally well for the mission, and the team, to be successful. Trust and teamwork-without

it-unimaginable

success

it, you’re done, with

is possible.

Again, I’m honored to be the recipient of the Jabara award, but the events I’m credited with accomplishing were the result of team

tunately, we failed to mention John Kelly, ’63. This was a major oversight on our part. John has been a key member of the Board for a number of years and continues to

provide outstanding support as a member of our Devel-

efforts. The efforts of dedicated professionals; some are mentioned

opment Committee. His vision and initiative were largely responsible for the establishment of the Sabre Society and he

above, but most worked quietly long and hard behind the scenes,

has been very generous in supporting regional activities. He

in the engine shops, ammo dumps, intelligence facilities and plan-

ning cells. Without their team effort, and trust we all place in their

expertise, then not a single Air Force aircraft would have left the ground. I think Col. Jabara would agree.

□

also provided superb leadership as the Chair of our Development Committee prior to leaving the Board. We regret the error John and look forward to your continued support.

Academy Grad running for Congress

im Kane, Air Force Academy Class of 1990, is running for

Congress in San Diego’s newly drawn 53rd U.S. Congressional District. His first election will be the GOP primary in March 2002, followed by the general election in Novemher 2002. Tim and his wife, Hiromi, live in San Diego with their two children, where he founded two successful technology companies. When asked what he plans to do in Congress, Kane said, “National security and economic strength are the most important issues facing Congress. On security issues, I support President Bush’s patience and commitment to winning the war against terrorism, especially the Administration’s emphasis on home security and stronger tools for law enforcement. As a Ph.D. economist and entrepreneur, I recognize the economy is heading into a recession, which means we need the federal government to stimulate private sector growth more than ever, not with new programs, but through eliminating taxes and red tape. I’m confident America will emerge from 2001 stronger and more united than ever.” Kane is a respected leader in San Diego’s technology community, having co-founded two companies there in the last six years. His first company was North America’s leading developer of Japanese translation software. In

1998, he founded and led development of Enonymous Corporation, which raised $5 million in venture funding and was recognized as the “1999 software startup of the year.”

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

® Highlights

What We’ve

Superintendents note

Experienced... Lt. Gen. J.D. Dallager, Superintendent

•

Country stronger than ever

Greetin

As we enter into a new year and leave one very

few of us will ever forget, my belief in this

country and my love for my family and fflaadS are stronger than ever. This past holiday season,

80 USAFA

personnel deployed

many families here at our Academy and around the world sat down to dinner with an empty chair at the table.

For some, the chair will be forever empty; for others, the chair symbolizes the hope for

the return of a loved one from a faraway land. I hope, given the circumstances, you were able to share the holidays with the ones you love, whether in presense or spirit. I’d also like to wish a safe return to the almost 80 USAFA personnel we have deployed in

Mourning the loss of Lt. Gen. Paul Stein

support of the war on terrorism. Our Air Base Wing (ABW) folks have been hit the hardest and their families are in our thoughts and prayers. We’ve welcomed reservists to help fill the positions left vacant by the deployments, and their dedication and separation from their families is very much appreciated.

Let me also pass along my deepest condolences to the family of retired Lt. Gen. and 13th Air

The effects ofSept. 11th on the Academy

Force Academy Superintendent, Paul Stein who passed away on January 10th and was honored

here on January 18th at a Cadet Chapel memorial service. Paul was well known and liked for his

personal charisma and genuine compassion for others. He possessed tremendous leadership abilities and we mourn his loss to the Air Force community and the nation. General Stein’s legacy lives on both from his cadet days and from when he was Superintendent. His tenure as Superintendent will forever be remembered for the facility upgrades that he spearheaded. Prior to becoming the Superintendent, Paul was assigned to the Pentagon as the Academy Legislative Liaison. I mention this because the relationships and Military Construction (MILCON) funding he fostered followed him here. Paul was instrumental in the 10 ABW’s successful $250 million Capital Renewal Plan that began in 1996. The appropriated funds acquired built the Consolidated Education and Training Facility (CETF) and provided the means to renovate and upgrade the wastewater treatment facility, Community Center Chapel, Jacks’ Valley, Vanand countless other structures Hall, denberg including a much needed Child Development Center. Brigadier General Randy Cubero, USAF retired, said it best when he remarked: “I don’t think the academy was ever in better hands.” General Cubero served as the Dean of Faculty under Paul. Paul, we all thank you for the vision and effort you exerted acquiring and upgrading the facilities we enjoy today. The Academy, the Air Force, and the nation are a better place because of you. God bless you and your family! ^

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

Highlights ®

and Where We’re Going ...

Superintendents note

Today we are “hard and symbolic.”

9-11 USAFA Impacts

The September 11 th attacks have had a transforming effect on this country and our United States Air Force Academy. We are well along the road to “operationalizing” USAFA.

Access and security on

the Academy

Prior to September 11th, the nation had a relatively complacent attitude toward national

security and personal safety. Candidly, the Academy was clouded in a similar aura of nonchalance. We were “soft and symbolic.” With seemingly little to fear, we continued the tradition of maintaining the most open air force base in the country. Today, we are “hard and symbolic.”

Athletic Dept, breaks ground on new

facility

Access is limited depending on the current Force Protection Condition or FPCON. Everyone,

including graduates from the Class of 2001, has been tremendously helpful in manning our Entry Control Points (ECPs), escorting delivery trucks, and assisting with the overall security of the base. In the grand scheme of things, “operationalizing USAFA” has been a positive expe-

Dedication ofstatue in honor

of “Robbie” Risner

rience; however, it has not come without difficulties. We’re getting better each week at balancing access to USAFA with prudent force protection. The Academy grew accustomed to welcoming upwards of one million visitors annually.

Another successful

Since the attacks on our country, these numbers have dwindled dramatically. The revenue lost

CORONA Conference

in the last few months has put a strain on our athletic programs and base businesses. For those

visiting the Academy in the near future, I’m confident you will be pleased with the levels of access and security. Thanks to Colonel Brad Ward and the entire 10th Air Base Wing for their tremendous effort in this ongoing initiative. On 11 December 2001, the 3-month anniversary of the September

11th attacks, I was TDY in New York and had the somber privilege of view-

ing “Ground Zero.” As the firefighters from “Ten Firehouse” took us in and treated us like family, I was overcome with feelings of tremendous pride in the American people and with tremendous sorrow for the loss of so many. ...

Mothers, fathers, sons, and daughters were lost on one of the darkest days in our

history; however, their memory and the attacks that cut their lives short

in New York, Pennsylvania, and Washington D.C. will never be forgotten.

Let me take a moment and highlight some of the events that have taken

place at USAFA since my Summer 2001 update. In October, the Athletic Department broke ground on a $30 million athletic facility addition! It will house 161,000 square feet of locker rooms, weight rooms, offices, and storage facilities. Plus, it reaffirms our commitment to gender equity, providing

long-awaited facilities for our female athletes, coaches, and staff. It’s located between Clune Arena and the cadet gymnasium—in the area that used to be a

parking lot-and should be complete in mid-2003.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER

2002

PERSPECTIVE

This past November we dedicated a nine-foot statue in honor of Brig. Gen. Robinson

“Robbie” Risner (USAF retired). The statue is located in the Air Garden and com-

memorates all

Superintendent’s

note

POWs, but especially USAFA POWs. The dedication was all the more

special because many Viet Nam POWs, several of whom were imprisoned in Hanoi Hilton, Room 7 along with Brig. Gen. Risner, attended. The statue and entire weekend’s festivities were made possible by Mr. Ross Perot who also attended the event.

The State of our Honor Code

Also in November, we hosted another successful CORONA Conference. This year’s conference was extra special because we welcomed our new Air Force Secretary, the Honorable James G. Roche. We gave Dr. Roche a behind-the-scenes look at all aspects

of Academy life including: academic facilities and curriculum, athletic venues, character

The CliffHenderson Award

for Achievement presented to the Academy

development, the honor code, and military training of the cadet wing. Dr. Roche offered his strong personal assistance and support, and we kicked off a solid working relationship with him and his staff. One of the areas Dr. Roche was very interested in is the current state of our honor

code. As you may know, in 1999 the Chief of Staff of the Air Force directed a “USAF

The new Schedule of Calls

Academy Honor Climate Assessment Task Force on the Honor Code and System” led by retired General Michael Cams (’59), former Air Force Vice Chief of Staff. This task force made several recommendations on how to improve the current honor process.

Key areas of focus were: cadet wing confidence in the code, cadet ownership of the code and process, the “honor culture” of the cadet wing, and the length of time it takes to

process through the honor system. After

closely reviewing many previous honor commission reports, to include those done at USMA and

USNA, I believe the “Cams’

Report” offers some good recommendations, particularly with regard to education and training (more experiential education, to include case studies) and in reducing the amount of time

it takes a case to process

which currently can be up to 100 days. We are

2005 is the first class to

have laptop computers

committed to strengthening the USAFA

honor culture, and the Cams’ Report will prove very helpful. I was privileged to travel to Washington D.C. this fall to accept the Cliff Henderson

Award for Achievement on behalf of all of USAFA’s officer, enlisted, cadets, and civilian

personnel. The Henderson Award was established in 1960 as the “National Aviation IFT is well

underway

Club Award for Achievement.” In 1986, it was named the “Cliff Henderson Award for Achievement” in honor of the National Air Races’ managing director from 1928-39. The National Aviation Club, based in Washington D.C. since 1951, provides representa-

The Fighting Falcons

capture their 15th Com-

mander-in-Chief’s Trophy

tives of all phases of aviation and aerospace the opportunity to meet for the purpose of

development and advancement of aviation. The Henderson Award is presented to an individual or organization that has made tremendous contributions in the fields of air and space. One academic project instrumental in USAFA capturing this honor is our satellite program. USAFA is the first undergraduate institution in the country that has designed, built, launched, and commanded its very own satellite! Astronautical engineering majors here at USAFA design and construct the satellite, it is launched with the help of Vanden-

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

berg Air Force Base, and cadets can communicate with the satellite from consoles here at the Academy. Astro Department instructors supervise the entire process. The “FalconSat” is

truly an incredible program. If you’ve had any contact with cadets or permanent party staff, then you’ve probably heard about the new “Schedule of Calls.” To give a little background, in wrestling with the age-old issue of “cadet time,” we created a Tiger Team, and last semester we implemented some of the changes they recom-

pions and the most outstanding boxer of the tournament.

Looking to the future, the Class of 2002 is anxiously awaiting graduation and joining the ranks of all the men and women in our uniformed services, battling the war on terrorism. As you probably know, not everyone in 2002 who is pilot qualified will go to pilot training. Out of a class of 950 cadets, there are approximately 580 PQ cadets desiring to attend pilot training and only 545 slots available. These numbers fluctuate all the way through graduation, but these

mended. The intent wasn’t to make the cadet schedule easy,

are

but to make it more manageable. In order to meet AF needs

had to be in the top 93% of pilot qualified candidates (and

(e.g. more foreign area experts with greater language skills, technical degrees, more cadets graduating with IFT complete, and a competitive Division I athletic program),

physically qualified). The non-rated “drop” was pretty good

I felt we were pumping 50 PSI into a 35 PSI balloon.

the current statistics. Selection was competitive and cadets

well: all but one cadet in the top 25% received their first

choice of assignment, the top 60-70% of the class received one

of their top three choices, and only about 13 cadets did

Changes were necessary to improve the end product that

not receive

we’re known for—developing leaders of character for our AF

ment system has moved closer and closer to the current offi-

and our nation. We’re reviewing the feedback, some of which our

Commandant, General Taco Gilbert addressed in the

last “Checkpoints,” as well as the continuing recommenda-

cer

any of their top 6 choices. Since 1999, our assign-

assignment system. In the near future, graduating cadets

will use the very same Assignment Management System that active duty officers use.

tions from the Tiger Team, and I’m confident that we’re on

As we look back on the profound changes September

track to implement a more interdisciplinary curriculum that

11 th, 2001 has brought to our nation, our Academy, and

addresses AF needs.

our

Let me take a moment and update you on some issues

families and friends, the January/February “dark ages”

here can be put in true perspective.

They actually offer great

that I mentioned in my last article. The initiative to bring

hope for 2002. For as ClC Mark Jacobsen (2002) so aptly

Introductory Flight Training (IFT) back to USAFA is well underway. Contract proposals were due in January 2002, and we are in the process of reviewing those submitted. In regards to the glider fleet replacement, we are expecting delivery of our first gliders in March of’02. Some “crosswind” testing will be completed and then they will be shipped off to Edwards Air Force Base for further flight tests. We’re looking forward to transitioning to the new aircraft in the Fall of 2003. The Fighting Falcon football team captured its 15th Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy, beating both Navy and Army in two of the most exciting games of the season. Perhaps more importantly, I’m proud of the fact that the Academy staff and coaches continue to uphold standards and hold the cadet wing accountable. Despite the suspension of 12 players for curfew violations, we won our final game against Utah to

penned the night of September 11th, “...when national defense passes to my generation, I will be ready.” They are now and they will be! I look forward to what this next year brings and hope that whether you are active duty, retired, reserves, or a civilian, your life and career goals are

finish with an overall record of 6-6. Believe me, there was a lot of character development going on that week

—

both on

and off the field! The Wings of Blue brought home 13 medals

...

blessed with success. God bless the United States and God bless our United States Air Force Academy!

<7 AnvxucCLfund/

Y Serving Graduates u Supporting the Academy u Preserving Heritage

from the Collegiate Parachuting Nationals and concluded their season with over 17,400 jumps including performances at the

The 2002 Annual Fund closes 30 June

Insight.com Bowl and Fiesta Bowl. On a similar note,

the USAFA Boxing Team sparred its way to its third National

Championship in a row, with two individual National Cham 21 CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

UP CLOSE

contributors ih

v ■

DICK RAUSCHKOLB, ’70

TOM KROBOTH

VP OF EXTERNAL COMMUNICATIONS

During part of Dicks 28 year career, he was Admiral Crowes speechwriter, Executive Officer

ASSITANT EDITOR

The “Ace in the Hole” for External Communications is Tom Kroboth. He handles Class

and Deputy Military Assistant. More impor-

News, assists in laying out Checkpoints, and

tantly, he knows the Academy from his active participation in every mission element. Were counting on his leadership to make External Communications a key office in your AOG.

provides much needed administrative support. More importandy, Tom shares his 20 years of experience as the Checkpoints editor, not to mention his expertise in journalism. BOB MCALLISTER DIRECTOR OF MARKETING AND MEDIA

Bob brings a wealth of experience from the audiovisual profession. During a career in the Air Force

documenting military activities around the world, Bob received

numerous

awards for his work,

including an Academy Award nomination. He provides a creative spark to presenting the AOG and Academy story.

SARAH WRIGHT

KEN WRIGHT

MEDIA DESIGNER

MULTIMEDIA SPECIALIST

Sarah is a distinguished graduate of Virginia Commonwealth University’s School of the Arts. Her talent as an illustrator and designer is put to good use on nearly every project that comes through our door. In the coming year, those talents will be tapped more and more as we strive

Ken comes to us with over 16 years as an Air

Force photographer. He was Military Photographer of the Year in 1994 and continues to shoot for Airman Magazine as a reservist. Not only are we looking to him to take great photos for our publications, but also to contribute as a writer, designer and webmaster.

improve every publication.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

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AOG Board Selects

Phil Erdle for Honorary Membership

over

40 years,

Brigadier General (Ret.) Phil Erdle has

devoted a large portion of his life to supporting the Academy, its programs, and cadets. From I960 until 1979, he served on

the Academy faculty. His exceptional teaching skills and commitment to

the Academy mission resulted in his selection in 1964. to be the

Permanent Professor and Head of the Department of Engineering and Mechanics.

He was also the Vice Dean of Faculty for five years and the officer representative for

the Falcon baseball team. In 1973, he co-founded and directed the International Science and

Engineering Exchange, Inc., a non-profit corporation to promote and facilitate technology

transfer among seventeen U.S. and six foreign universities. Since his retirement from active duty in 1979, Brigadier General Erdle has continued to contribute to the

morale and well-being of the Academy in many significant ways. He was a key proponent for the creation of a foundation to support continued academic excellence at USAFA. His efforts were rewarded with the creation of the

Academy Research and Development Institute. Once the institute was established, General Erdle

immediately began to successfully solicit gifts to endow chairs in the academic departments to be occupied by

distinguished visiting professors. Today, the value of the donations solicited by General Erdle and the retained income from their prudent investment exceed $17 million. Distinguished Visiting Professors selected by the dean and academy department heads have taught cadets and collaborated with military faculty colleagues in the Major General William Lyon Chair in Philosophy, the Brigadier General Robert F. McDermott Chair in Academic Excellence, the William A. Anders Chair in Defense Economics, the Wesley W. Posvar Chair in Political Science, the Philip J. Erdle

Chair in Engineering Science, the Coleman/Richardson Chair in Computer Science, and the Bernard Schriever Chair in Astronautics.

Investment funds from the William E. Simon Center for Strategic Studies, and from

the Ambassador Walter H. Annenburg Chair in Social Sciences, both “chairs in waiting”, as well as the annual

John M. Olin Professorship in National Security and Defense Studies gift, have brought distinguished military, government, and business leaders to deliver cadet lectures and lead faculty discussions. General Erdle is also an active member of the Sabre Society and a major proponent of an expanded AOG presence at the Academy.

For these good works and many others in his continuing and unpaid support of the Academy and its

cadets, Brigadier General Phil Erdle is the newest Honorary Member of the United States Air Force Academy Association of Graduates.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

Maj. Victor Apodaca I read the article concerning the return home of the remains

of Vic Apodaca. After reading the article, I remembered having a picture of Vic in a scrapbook my mother had kept of my Academy years. It was

taken in the fall of 1960 just before the Air Force-Navy game, and shows a group of 10th squadron cadets with a paper-mache

goat decorated with hair clippings from the cadet barbershop.

Vic, of course, is the fellow with the biggest grin. Dennis W. Montgomery

Class of 1964

CHECKPOINTS Please accept my compliments on the latest edition of CHECKPOINTS. It was excellent...the feature story format

and human interest content were the best I’ve ever seen in this

pub! What a great example of telling a good news story! It very uplifting to read. Thanks, and keep up the good work!

was

Bruce Mitchell

Class of 1975

The Dodo Oh the joy one feels when ones “artwork” is recognized for its greatness! What artwork might this be? Why the cover of

the September 1967 Dodo (“... and Carl, you go down behind the black Chevy...”). And to find our choice for the April 1968

Spacemate, Carmelita Caballo, also in the select group of six... oh, such honors. (Okay, okay. I’ll get on with it.) I’m Roger From L to R (top row) Vic Apodaca, '61, Jim Brinkman, ’62, Terry

Isaacson, ’64, Barry Meuse, ’63, Frank Packer, '64, (kneeling) Denny Montgomery, ’64, Wayne Gardner, ’63.

Dean and was the Assistant Editor of the Dodo during the

1967-68 academic year. When I saw your article on the Dodo and its history in the latest CHECKPOINTS I just had to ,

write. I have a complete set of Dodo issues from 67-68 that I’ve

had tucked away in a binder for almost 34 years. They are in pretty good condition and I’d like to donate them to the AOG.

That is, if the Association will have them. I also have an original reel-to-reel tape recording of WingDing #1 that the AOG can

have if it wants it. And if not, thanks for bringing back

some

USAFA memories that all too rarely come to the fore. (By

the way, 34 years does a number on the memory, but I don’t think Nino Baldachi dates back to our era.)

Roger Dean Class of 1968 At press-time we received the Dodo issues from 1967-1968

thanks to Roger Dean, ’68. -Ed.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

BEHIND THE SCENES

AO Geeks ;

to celebrate USAFAs s

stamp

CAth

^anniversary Anniversary

embers of the Academy and the Association of Graduates hope to gain a commemorative stamp honoring the 50th

M anniversary

of the establishment of the Academy in 2004. “A request has been submitted to the U.S. Postal

Service’s Citizens’

Stamp Advisory Committee,” said Marty Marcolongo, ’88, AOG’s constituent liaison director.

“The tentative date of issuance is April 1st, 2004,” he added. The Postal Service requires that several criteria be met prior to the issuance of commemorative stamps. The Academy’s

proposed stamp falls under an event of historical significance, which is commemorated on 50th anniversaries. The Postal Service has honored both West Point and the Naval Academy with commemorative stamps in the past. The stamp committee issued a 150th anniversary stamp for the Naval Academy in 1995, and will issue a stamp this year to honor West Point ‘s 200th anniversary. “The idea was originally presented to the Postal Service by military enthusiast and stamp collector, James C. Bunch of Florida,” said Marcolongo. “He had noticed that both West Point and commemorative stamps,

Annapolis

have

and believed that the Air Force

Academy should have one as well. He wrote a letter to the stamp committee and courtesy copied one to us,” he said.

Another letter was written to the stamp committee from the

Academy

—

signed by both Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen.

John R. Dallager, ’69 and AOG President, retired Col. James A. Shaw, ’67. “We wanted the Postal Service to understand

that we officially support Bunch’s idea,” Marcolongo said. For more information on the Academy’s 50th

Anniversary

Commemorative

Stamp,

visit

the

AOG’s Web site at www.aog-usafa.org or call

Bv Sutounnee

BEHIND THE SCENES

10, his sponsors. He ate with the cadet

wing, got a CS-10 T-shirt and coin, a football and poster signed by the Falcon football team, had a prayer service with the chaplains, saw a planetarium show,

played arcade games in Arnold Hall and shot hoops in Clune Arena.

“He wasn’t overwhelmed with all of

it,” Adams said. “A lot of the stuff he got to do was almost

like an amusement park

ride. Everything he did he just thought that was the neatest thing ever. I got an

e-mail from him this morning. ‘Cat, It

the best weekend in my whole life.’ I

was

almost started crying.” On Saturday, Josh got to go into the

locker room with the football team and he walked onto the field beside the Cadet Wing commander. He sat with the cadets during the whole game.

“The biggest thing for me is that he’s gone through so much in the

By Jennifer Brugman

Cadet for a Day

last year and he can have such excitement and he really trea-

everything he gets to do,” Adams said. “He eats everything up. A lot of people don’t appreciate what they have. sures

Josh Angelo spent three hours

is sponsored, funded and run by cadets.

telling his older brother about his days Academy. Josh was diagnosed

Adams became involved with the program

firstclassmen.

It makes you appreciate what you have

with leukemia a year ago and spent a

Josh’s weekend was action-packed.

and that you can help other people.”

Friday and Saturday in October being a ‘Cadet for a Day.’

“I think the people escorting him around

at the

“He was on cloud nine,” said Mike

Angelo, Josh’s dad. When Josh was first diagnosed, he

as a

were more

exhausted than he was,” Adams

Josh was unavailable to be interviewed because he was trying out for the eighth

said. “He was so excited about everything

grade basketball team in his hometown of

that was happening.”

Berthoud, CO. “He thought it was wonderful,”

He saw the sail planes first. Then he

98th Flying Training Squad-

Adams said of his son’s time here. “This

received treatment every day, now he has

went to the

chemotherapy once a month. “We didn’t

ron

know for sure how he would be,” his father

chutes are packed. Josh got to be hung

He thoroughly enjoyed it. It is a pro-

said. “He had treatment on Thursday

up in a harness and was shown how jump

gram that we feel, if the higher-ups can

Oct. 11, but he got here and said, ‘I’m

students are trained.

continue, they should pursue it with other

ready to go. Lets go do this.’ He had a

and they showed him where para-

“He got to do everything short of

was

the best thing he was able to go do.

kids. It gives them the kids a new outlook

life.”

jumping out of the plane,” Adams said.

The 13 year-old, his parents and

The weather on Oct. 12 prevented him

middle brother arrived Oct. 11 in the eve-

from going on a Cessna flight over Chey-

Josh got home at about 6 p.m. Saturday when he interrupted his oldest

ning. He promptly got his own flightsuit,

enne Mountain

according to 2nd Lt. Cathy Adams, 94th flying training squadron, one of Josh’s

Gods-that got postponed until Saturday

morning. On Friday afternoon, Josh had

he didn’t stop talking until he went to

escorts. The Cadet for a

his picture taken with Cadet Squadron

bed at about 9 or 10 p.m.

wonderful time.”

Day program

and the Garden of the

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

brother watching football on television

tell him about his day. His father says

An Officer, a Gentleman...

and a Scholar CADET HONORED WITH MARSHALL SCHOLARSHIP Story by Dr. Ken Lavin Photo by Ken Wright, AOG Charles M. Trickey has been awarded a Marshall Scholarship, one of the nation’s most

prestigious scholastic honors.

The scholarship was started by the British Parliament in gratitude to the United States for the European Recovery

Program, known as the “Marshall Plan.” The plan, put

together by U. S. Gen. George C. Marshall, outlined the economic rebuilding of war-torn Europe after World War II.

Awarded annually, the Marshall Scholarship allows 40 American

students to pursue graduate degrees at any British University.

Trickey will pursue a graduate degree in aeronautical engineering at Cranfield University, Bedfordshire, England. His

scholarship is valued at $24,000 to $28,000 annually. Trickey is one

of six Academy students awarded a Marshall Scholarship.

Trickey, a native of Cedar Rapids, Iowa, has been on both the Dean’s List and the Commandant’s List six times. He is also ranked

first in the graduation class standing based on the Overall Performance

Average which is a weighted combined score of grade point

average (70 percent) and military point average (30 percent).

Former Astronaut Ron Sega, 74 was recently selected as Director of Defense Research & Engineering (DDR&E)

Honorable Ronald M. Sega, is the chief technical advisor to the Secretary of Defense and the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition, Technology, and Logistics (USD-AT&L) on defense research,

development, test, and evaluation. Dr. Sega is also responsible for developing policies, guidance, and managing the defense atomic energy, chemical, and biological defense plans and programs within the Defense Threat Reduction Agency (DTRA). In addition, he has management oversight for the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

A Leader's Leader

■

Lieutenant General (Ret.) Paul E. Stein leaves the Academy and Air Force a better place. By John Van Winkle USAFA, PA

“While many people can

THE ACADEMY AND GRADUATE COMMUNITY MOURNED THE LOSS OF ITS 13TH SUPERINTENDENT

recognize problems, he also had

with memorial services on January 17th, 2002 in the Cadet Chapel.

the insight to chart a course

Retired Lt. Gen. Paul Stein was a 1966 Academy graduate,

to fix them

...

and the energy,

who returned to the Academy as superintendent in 1994. He

persistence and integrity to make

retired September 1, 1997, following his tenure as Academy super-

it happen! We at the Air Force

intendent. The general died on the morning of January 10th, 2002

Academy today are just begin-

of Lou Gherig’s disease, at his home in Basye, Va. He was 57.

ning to enjoy the fruits of his

Stein first came to the Academy for Basic Cadet Training

labors to ensure all our facilities

in 1962 from Lansing, Mich., and graduated in 1966. “I knew

remain world-class. The efforts

of Cadet Stein’s athletic accomplishments as a cadet.... he was a

he initiated will take several more

firstie, (when) I was a doolie,” said Lt. Gen. John Dallager, current

years to complete

Academy Superintendent. “Years later, my wife and I had the pleasure

of being stationed with the Steins at Langley AFB, Va., where

I worked for and with him. He was a standout leader

...

savvy,

...

and last the rest of most of our lifetimes!

He was a tremendous competitor, whether on the athletic

fields, in the Washington arena, supporting our Air Force families, or

in carving out time for his family and friends, Paul was a great

energetic, focused on doing what was right to help people, very

officer and gentleman

clear in his setting of high standards, and a team player extraordi-

...

leader

...

teammate

...

father

...

husband

and friend,” said Dallager. Stein left behind a legacy that continues today, including

naire.” It was that leadership ability and teamwork that led Stein to

improvements to the Academy’s infrastructure, new facilities, new

rise to the rank of lieutenant general and return to the Academy in

academic majors and minors, the creative acquisition of another

1994 as superintendent.

UV-18 aircraft for the Academy’s airmanship programs, and even

adding a non-commissioned officer to each cadet squadron. “He was a wonderful man to work for-extremely demand-

ing, which is good for those who want to work. And he had a

good focus on what he wanted to achieve,” said retired Col. Vic Andrews, a fellow 1966 graduate who arrived with Stein as his Vice

Superintendent in 1994. In addition to renovations to Vandenberg and Sijan halls,

major projects that resulted from Stein’s efforts include construetion of the Consolidated Education and Training Facility adjacent to

Fairchild Hall, the current Family Support Center, the Child

Development Center, the sailplane hangar, the Transient LodgPaul Stein had a distinguished football career during his cadet years as well as in his early active duty career.

CHECKPOINTS

ing Facility, Visiting Officers Quarters, and a recreation lodge at Farish. The Superintendent also spearheaded a number of facility WINTER 2002

UP CLOSE

improvements, including purchasing new cadet dorm furniture, expansions to the Academy hospital and a multi-year renovation project of Fairchild Hall, as well as renovations to Falcon Stadium, the Community Center, the 1 Oth Air Base Wing headquarters,

Preparatory School dormitories, wastewater treatment systems, the

Community Center Chapel, and Aero Club hangar, and the Basic Cadet Training Area in Jacks Valley.

Airmanship programs also benefited from Stein’s leadership in a

number of ways. First came the new hangars and the construe-

tion of a third runway here, at what was already the most active

Visual Flight Recognition airfield in the Air Force. The general also obtained the Academy’s third UV-18 Twin Otter from the Alaska

Army National Guard, which had declared the aircraft as surplus. Rather than let the aircraft rust in peace in a desert surplus storage

yard, Stein had the aircraft transferred to the Academy, where it is used to this day to support the 98th Flying Training Squadron’s

parachuting programs. Perhaps one of the more visible legacies was the addition of a noncommissioned officer to each Cadet Squadron, as the squadron’s Military Training Advisor. “Our graduate surveys consistently

indicate insufficient knowledge of an appreciation for our great enlisted force. Considering many of our graduates will go on to

supervisory roles, we viewed this as a serious shortcoming in our attempt to produce leaders,” Stein wrote in 1997. “As a result the Air Force Chief of Staff authorized a Military Training Advisor

position to be added to each cadet squadron. These highly-motivated NCOs were handpicked from more than 250 applicants to serve as

Family and friends gathered at the Cadet Chapel to memorialize Stein January 17, 2002.

enlisted role models for cadets, teach drill and ceremonies,

and with the Air Officer Commanding, model officer/enlisted

professional relationships. Their contributions are already obvious and they are a welcome addition to our Academy.” Under Stein’s tutelage, the Academy’s NCAA athletic program

to serve our Air Force and

nation,” said Wagie.

But perhaps Stein’s greatest legacy was one of leadership.

“General Stein’s strength of leadership came from his incredible instincts-he could look at a problem or an existing policy and

moved from Division II to Division I in all sports in 1995, and is

focus on inefficiencies and solutions faster than anyone I’ve ever

the only service academy to have done so. Athletics was something

been around. His heart and decisions were always with the cadets

near

and dear to his heart, as he played varsity football and softball

and every decision he made created an environment for success,”

as a

cadet in the mid-1960s, and stayed on a year after graduation

said Colonel Hans Mueh, head of the chemistry department,

assistant football coach.

Stein’s classmate, and the last member of the class on active duty.

“Lt. Gen. Stein put a strong emphasis on making sure the Acad-

“He was a tough Superintendent who demanded that you have

emy provided an environment for cadets to succeed. This led to many

your facts together before you presented anything to him, and

very positive enhancements to our student services, cadet counseling,

those facts had to include an incredible level of detail,” said Mueh.

and academic advising programs,” said Brig. Gen. Dave Wagie, who’s

“But if you had your stuff in order, he became your strongest sup-

been at the Academy since 1987 as a professor, commander and is now

porter. One of the greatest honors anyone ever bestowed on me

the current Dean of Faculty. “General Stein’s vision and leadership

was

ensured we continue to develop our cadets-America’s best and bright-

for his retirement by Gen. (Ronald) Fogleman. That will stay with

as an

est

young men and women-into the best second lieutenants possible

when General Stein asked me to be the Commander of Troops

forever. I loved that man and will miss him.”

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER

2002

S 29

Lt. Gen. John D. Hopper Jr., ’69

An Air Force Academy graduate and former commandant of cadets was honored by two national

organizations recently for his service to the nation and greater San Antonio community. Lt. Gen. John D. Hopper Jr., vice commander of Air Education and Training Command,

received The Distinguished Achievement Award from Tuskegee Airmen Inc. at the group’s National Historical Museum Annual Awards Banquet November 2 in Detroit, Michigan. The general was recognized for his “monumental education and career achievements” as well as

his “numerous invaluable contributions to the defense and welfare of our great nation,” said

retired Maj. Gen. Lucius Theus, chairman of the banquet committee. The honor also serves to publicly highlight the general as a role model for youth and all

Americans, General Theus added. Past recipients of the national award include Secretary of State Colin Powell, Air Force Materiel Command Commander, Gen. Lester Lyles and former AETC Com-

mander Gen. Lloyd “Fig” Newton. “It’s a great honor to receive the museum’s Distinguished Achievement Award,” Hopper said in his remarks. “I think of the great Americans who have received this award

...

Colin Powell, Togo

West, Bernard Randolph and Fig Newton, among others. I’m humble and proud to be in the shadow of these legends.” The general said the Tuskegee museum not only celebrates heroes of the past, but the organiza-

tion, through its community activities, also reaffirms a commitment to America’s youth-the future. “For many years, the Tuskegee Airmen National Historical Museum has been a place that inspires young Americans,” he said. “It does so by teaching them of their heritage, but more importantly, it

does so by showcasing the educational and career opportunities that exist in our great nation.” In another ceremony, the San Antonio Branch of the National Association for the Advancement of

Colored People presented the general with the 2001 NAACP Distinguished President’s Award October 25

th .

The NAACP honor recognized Hopper for his participation in the organization’s military and veterans

affairs programs and his involvement with the San Antonio NAACP Youth Branch.

Hopper has been AETC vice commander since October 2000. He received his commission in 1969 from the Academy. He returned to Colorado Springs in November 1994 when, as a brigadier general, he served as commandant of cadets and commander of the 34th Training Wing until July 1996. The general has flown in combat in Vietnam and as commander of the 1660th Tactical Airlift Wing (Provisional) in

Southwest Asia during Operation Desert Storm. He is a command pilot with more than 3,900 flying hours in 12 different aircraft.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

THE DISTINGUISHED GRADUATE AWARD DG

Nomination Instructions DG

he Distinguished Graduate Award is intended to recognize those exceptional graduates who have set themselves apart

by making extraordinarily significant contributions to our nation and/or their

communities. It is a unique honor bestowed by the Academy and the AOG recognizing graduates

whose accomplishments have inspired us all and elevated the reputation and the standing of the US Air Force Academy. Distinguished Graduates should provide an example to all graduates and cadets of the

standards that we value and of the abilities that have made our country and society great.This is our

opportunity to recognize graduates who can serve as an inspiration to future generations of Americas leaders.

Anyone may submit a nomination package. The package should not exceed three pages. The first page is a concise information sheet on the candidate and

Distinguished Graduate Award Calendar of Events

should contain a short narrative or bullets addressing the following headings, if applicable: -

Professional Accomplishments

Sept 01 April 2002 -

Publicize award

Education History

Request nominations

Professional Organizations

Deadline for nominations 30 April

Professional Career Summary to include job titles and location

May 2002

Honors, Awards, Public Recognition

Selection Committee reviews

Community Service

nominations

Additional 3 References (include address and phone number)

The remaining page/s should be a strong written justification.

June 2002 Selection Committee recommends award

recipient to Chairman of the Board and USAFA Superintendent

Recipient notified and agrees to accept Submit the Nomination Package by 30 April 02

award at the USAF Academy

Mail to: Ms. Leah Burrows Association of Graduates

3116 Academy Drive USAF

Academy, CO 80840-4475

April 2003 DGA presentation ceremony at USAFA in

conjunction with Founders’ Day

Email as a word attachment to: Leah. Burrows@usafa. af. mil

Questions: Contact Colonel (Ret.) Dick Rauschkolb, ’70 AOG Vice President for External Communications.

Phone: 719-472-0300

Additional Information may be found on the

Email: dick.rauschkolb@usafa.af.mil

AOG web site at www.aog-usafa.org

BEHIND THE SCENES

Sijan Hall was constructed in 1967 and has

total

of 928 cadet rooms. Renovation, which began on 23 April 2001, is scheduled for completion by September 2004. Each phase will renovate to

approximately 200 rooms and take about 9 months

complete. During this time, we’ve moved three squadrons of

the 3rd Group (Cadet Squadrons 21-23) to Vandenberg Hall. The construction will move from the west end of Sijan Hall to

Sijan Hall Renovation

the east, and each floor, as it is renovated, will be turned over for occupancy. As a result of this three—plus year renovation project,

the Academy had to increase the number of 3-person accommo-

dations to the extent that approximately 40% of the cadet wing lives in 3-person rooms. Some of the major renovation actions

Renovation to be

that will take place include: installing a fire sprinkler system to

completed in five-phase construction plan.

meet current

life-safety codes, removing carpet in the halls and

replacing with tile, upgrading ceiling lights, refurbishing the heating system, upgrading computer, cable, and electrical lines, and

replacing the vanity cabinets, counters, and sinks. The size of the cadet rooms will remain unchanged. The interior will resemble

Vandenberg Hall, which has already been renovated (completed in 1998). At the same time, the Academy began replacing the current wooden dorm room furniture in

Sijan Hall with new alu-

minum, modular furniture. This furniture is more “user-friendly” and easier to reconfigure should the need arise. Installation of this very popular cadet furniture began in Nov 00 and is projected to

be completed throughout Sijan Hall by Sep 03. Installation of the new

furniture in Vandenberg Hall was completed on Oct 00.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

bit embarrassed to have been chosen for the statue here

that represents all POWs, and it still leaves me in awe,” Risner said humbly.

“That didn’t take long,” Risner said, referring to Friday’s interview. “Now I can quit shaking.” His candor brought

smiles to the faces of Academy Superintendent Lt. Gen. John R. Dallager and H. Ross Perot, donor of the nine-foot statue now on

display in the Air Garden. Perot offered some history

surrounding Friday’s unveiling. “All men who served with him in Vietnam in the prison camps when they came home and talked to me would point to him (Risner) and say, ‘He’s the

only reason I survived,”’ said the Naval Academy graduate. “As they told me stories about General Risner, the senior

officer within the camp, one (name) kept coming up, Perot said. In violation of Vietnamese POW rules, Risner ordered church

services complete with hymns prisoners had hand scribed on

toilet tissue. In the middle of a hymn, the Vietnamese came in and grabbed General Risner to take him back to the box

(of solitary confinement). As Risner was led away, fellow POWs stood and sang a “strictly forbidden song,” according to Perot. “And that song was the Star Spangled Banner.” Risner told Perot years later at that moment pride in his men

made him “feel nine feet tall and as though he could have

gone bear hunting with a switch.” Perseverance and the will to

Risner Honored

survive captivity were the general’s keys to success. Quoting his

dad who said, “You can’t whip a man who won’t quit.” Risner attributes demonstrated loyalty, integrity and faith in God and

in Air Garden By Master Sgt. Ken Carter; USAF PA

country as being the foundations for himself and fellow POWs who lived to tell about it.

Regarding the recent tragedies in New York, Pennsylvania and Washington D.C., Risner suggests Bin Laden, who alleg-

Photo by Ken Wright, AOG

edly masterminded the terrorist attacks on America, may have r

can

FEW

offer the experiential knowl-

edge of life (or at least existence)

as a

Prisoner of War with the same

depth as the man recognized with a permanent statue in his

actually helped our nation. “Never in my lifetime have I seen so much patriotism and dependence on God as I do right now,” Risner said, preceding the ceremony in his honor. “Despite the

disaster, he did us a big favor.” Placement of the statue in the Air Garden and its proximity

honor here on November 16, 2001. Robinson Risner, a retired brigadier general, who flew

to Mitchell Hall will remind cadets here three times a

in World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam conflict,

an Air Force

day what

officer is supposed to be, according to Perot. The

experienced the gamut of war-fighting accomplishments.

sculpted nine-foot salute to POWs was based on Risner’s quote

The war hero, flying ace and survivor of seven and-a-half

to Perot years before

years as a prisoner of war in Vietnam says the special atten-

between September 1965 and February 1973. The human tower

tion both embarrasses him and leaves him awe-struck. “I’m

truly gives cadets a leader to always look up to.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

concerning his pride in his fellow captives

BEHIND THE SCENES

mliriGGunshi

By Staff Sgt. Jason Tudor, Air Force Print News

Orbiting low and slow over enemy territory, the prop-

less drag because of what happened here.”

driven flying Air Force artillery division known as the AC-130 Gunship

Created from a “slick,” or unmodified C-130, the Gunship’s left side

riddles its foes with a shower of 25-mm bullets, and pounds them with

fuselage is loaded with heavy weaponry, including guns and cannons.

rounds. Because it flies in circles, the hail of ammunition is con-

It is also equipped with a number of sensors and communication gear,

tinuous, nightmarish and demoralizing; all traits American battlefield com-

including TV cameras to pick out friend or foe on the ground. During a typical mission, the Gunship flies, or loiters, in an orbit above a selected

cannon

manders find “cool” in their weapons’ systems. Unfortunately, the Gunship

with one not-so-cool trait

the specialized aircraft add

shooting the enemy and supporting good guys. “There were a lot of things sticking out of the Gunship that didn’t have a lot of thought from an aeronautical standpoint,” Yechout said. Most of the academy team’s work took place during more than 500

50 percent more drag than an

hours of testing in the engineer-

unmodified C-130 Hercules.

ing department’s subsonic wind

Drag reduces air speed,

tunnel using two resin and metal

soars

area,

discovered in 1996 by Air Force

Special Operations Command and U.S. Air Force Acad-

crews

emy cadets. It flies

block of

granite. Protruding objects on

uses

fuel and steals time on

target

from

the

1 /48th scale

models, much like

those available to

Gunship’s

consumers

13-airmen crew. It also means

it has to fly closer to enemy

weapons fire. Enter 36 cadets

and was later asked by the systems

and

one

aeronautical

hobby

store.

The team focused

the Spectre from 1996 to 1998

program office at Warner Robins

engi-

the academy. They just wrapped up a four-year-

Air Logistics Center, Ga., to study the Spooky. The professor and his

long study to streamline the fleet of H-model and U-model Gunships.

group of student engineers were under a number of constraints. They

The $ 133-million H model, or Spectre, has flown since the Vietnam

could not move anything and they could not affect the Gunship’s func-

War. The

tionality. Further, the modifications had to be fairly inexpensive.

neering professor

$190 million U-model,

Spooky, rolled out in 1995.

There are about two-dozen Gunships in the Air Force inventory.

“For aeronautical engineers reducing drag, it would have been really

After tweaking, prodding and testing hundreds of drag modifi-

nice to move a couple of things,” Yechout said. “That just wasn’t in the

cations, the cadets’ work resulted in modifications to both models.

ground rules.” Yechout said the H-model Gunship held the most potential

When fully implemented, they could result in a 30-minute increase

for streamlining. There were more unused systems that could be removed.

in flying time and a 2,000-foot increase in ceiling for the AC-130H.

“Initially, the depot thought it was easier for them to leave the

For the Spooky, it could mean a 22-minute increase in flight time

unused components on the airplane,” Yechout said.

and a 1,500-foot rise in the ceiling. About 50 percent of the changes

wasn’t costing them anything. Our wind tunnel tests really opened their

proposed to the Spectre have been made. Funding is still pending for

eyes.” For instance, the Spectre used to have two 20-mm Vulcan cannons

modifications to the newer Spooky.

(removed so the plane could fly higher) and a radar system called a Black

“They figured it

Retired Lt. Col. (Dr.) Tom Yechout, a professor of aeronautical engi-

Crow (a relic of the Vietnam War). The cannons and the Crow had long

the academy, spearheaded the project. He said providing a

since been removed, but the radome for the Crow and fittings for the

neering

remained. The Academy team proposed removing the radome

safer, better flying aircraft-especially now that he knows those crews are

cannons

deployed for Operation Enduring Freedom-made perfect sense.

and creating fairings for each fitting. On the U-model, the forward-look-

“What’s satisfying to us,” Yechout said, “is that we have airplanes

ing infrared radar provided an interesting challenge, Yechout said. The

operations that are modified and are flying with

radar itself was mounted in a circular base, but encased in a large metal

supporting

current

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

BEHIND THE SCENES

Lasky E.

SgtJohn

THE

Tech

SABRE SOCIETY

The Sabre Society is a committed group of

photo USAF

people who love the Air Force Academy and what it stands for. The Society honors those who make an unrestricted annual donation of at least $1,000. The Sabre Society is continually growing. We

have over 830 members and more are being added Retired Lt. Col (Dr.) Tom Yechout examines one of the models

daily. The Class of 1970 now leads all classes

used in wind tunnel testing during the AC-130 Gunship stream-

with 52 Sabre Society members. However, at 50

lining project. Yechout and 36 cadets from the Academy con-

members, the Class of 1964 still has the highest

tributed to the effort.

percentage with over 11% of its class being a part of this special group. The Class of ’69 is close

cube near the left side of the nose of the Gunship.

Large metal cubes, it seems, do not do well aerodynamically,

behind with 47 Sabre Society members.

Yechout said, especially when they are mounted on the front of aircraft. As a result, the academy team created a more streamlined fair-

ing

hide the cube and cut down drag.

Innovation aside, Yechout

said much of their satisfaction came from their work supporting the

operational crews in the field (The academy is involved in more than 15 applied research projects with the service). “The biggest thing was

helping the guys in the field.” Maj. Greg Anders is one of those who will benefit from the modifications. An AC-130 pilot, Anders is also the 18th Flight Test Squadrons Gunship branch chief at Hurlburt Field, Fla. Fie said

Part of

our

growth is due to the challenge

extended by John Martin, ’69. For every graduate who

joins the Sabre Society by June 30, John

will give the AOG an additional $1,000. Here’s

your chance to give back to the Academy and make your gift work twice as hard. Join today and help the AOG support the Long Blue Line!

the research and work made a difference.

Upcoming Events

“It’s important because it provides information for us and gives the stu-

dents an opportunity to see how things work in the field,” said Anders, who

July 18-20, 2002

has flown Gunships for 10 years. “It provided them a unique opportunity.”

Sabre Society Weekend

Second Lt. Scott Chadsey, ’00 was one of the 36 students who contributed to the Gunship modifications. The aeronautical engineering

major started work as a junior and immediately saw the benefits of the project. The lieutenant was so motivated he stayed behind to finish the project on “casual” status after he was commissioned. The work also influenced Chadsey, now an undergraduate pilot

Come and see the Class of

2006

in action at

Jacks Valley. Tour the flying training operations and hear from the Superintendent, Commandant, Dean and Athletic Director. The Superintendent’s

dinner, Dean’s reception and golf are all part of this informative and fun weekend!

training student at Vance Air Force Base, Okla., to work for a slot as an

what made the project interesting,” the 2000 graduate said. “It wasn’t

something theoretical. We knew it was something that would have a direct effect today. There was a real sense of accomplishment once it was

November 8, 2002

AC-130 pilot. “Knowing that it would help our guys now was

done.” Yechout said the entire experience caused him to learn more

about what the field is interested in from its military scientists. It also

Regional dinner in NY City The Association of Graduates will host a dinner at New York

City’s Union League Club (thanks to

John, ’62 and Mary Jo Flanagan) in conjunction with the Air Force/Army football game.

caused him to think in different directions. “If you’ve got less drag, you use less power, you have a cooler exhaust and there’s less chance of that heat-seeking missile picking you up,” Yechout said.

“They don’t want to go faster. It’s about crew safety, time on target, less fuel

For information on joining the Sabre Society, please contact Kathy McCann or Becky Hureau at (719) 472-0300.

used and a smaller infrared signature. That’s what counts.” CHECKPOINTS

WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

CODEEHHONOR Commandant Comments on Honor Code Review By Brig. Gen. Taco Gilbert, ’78, Commandant of Cadets

On a regular basis the Academy

Honor

conduct. They also found the current method of honor instruction fails

intellectually engage cadets in grasping the centrality and critical-

System is reviewed for fairness, relevancy and objectivity. Recently,

General Michael Cams (USAF Ret.), Class of 1959 and former Vice

ity of honor; and that confidence in the Honor Code and system has

Chief of Staff, led such a review. This was the 13th periodic review of

declined. This loss of confidence, the Task Force found, is rooted in the

honor code, and the administrative system that supports it.

cadets’ problems with the Honor Code’s non-toleration clause and the

In the fall of 2000 General Cams was asked by General Michael

Honor System’s presumptive sanction of disenrollment in response to

Ryan, Class of 1965, and then Chief of Staff, “to conduct a review of

all instances of Honor Code violations. Overall, the Task Force recom-

the United States Air Force Academy Honor system

mended a number of changes in the cadet Honor System, highlighting

our

...

to ensure the

system is fair and equitable.” Gen. Cams assembled a task force of

the teaching of honor by case method as its chief recommendation.

eleven active duty officers, from all ranks, AFSCs and major com-

So, what has the Academy done in response to General Cams’

mands to assist him in the review. They set as their task to identify

recommendations? First, the Superintendent directed the results

any deficiencies that may be frustrating the effort to inculcate values/

of the Task Force’s finding be briefed to all Academy cadets, staff

virtues of honor in cadets, and to recommend any required changes

and faculty—and that this information be shared with the graduate

the honor system and other Academy practices that would improve

community. The Cadet Wing Honor Chairman briefed the entire

efforts to instill honor as a value/virtue in cadet character. The goals

cadet wing this fall via two Arnold Hall sessions. Simultaneously,

of the Task Force were to: produce greater confidence in the Honor

the Cadet Deputy Wing Honor Chairman and the Director of the

Code and system among the cadets; increase cadet ownership in the

Center for Character Development briefed staff and faculty in lecture

system; and to enrich the culture of honor and commitment to devel-

hall F-l; and an additional session was held for coaches and athletic

oping honorable officers of character.

department staff members in Clune Arena. Colonel Mark Hyatt,

In addition, a team of retired general officers and former AF

’74, Director of the Center for Character Development held a press

senior executives reviewed the draft report and provided additional

conference for the media, responded to their inquiries, and distrib-

insights. During the twelve months of this process members of Gen. Cams’ team visited the Academy, interviewing 147 cadets and 32 members of the Academy staff and faculty. The responses to these

was

interviews formed the basis for the final report.

of the Secretary of the Air Force to the Academy, my staff and I spent

In their report, the Academy Honor Climate Assessment Task

uted copies of the Cams’ Report. An article on the Cams’ Report

published in the Academy Spirit, our base newspaper, and that article was posted on the AOG Website. Finally, during a recent visit four hours with the Secretary reviewing the Cams’ Report and all our

Force found there was broad support for the Honor Code among

Academy activities in character development. The Superintendent,

cadets, faculty and staff, and that cadets are proud to be members of

Dean of the Faculty, Director of Athletics and I continue to make

organization that sets high standards of personal and professional

honor, ethics and character development key talking points in our

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

respective Commander’s Call and departmental meetings. As Commandant of Cadets, I’m responsible to the Superin-

3. I agree with our cadets

...

it takes too long to process an honor case.

So, in December the Superintendent invited a team from the office of

tendent—and to you, our graduates—for the state of the honor

The Judge Advocate General in the Pentagon to visit our Center for

code at USAFA. It is my greatest responsibility. Immediately after

Character Development, and meet with members of the Cadet Honor

receiving the Task Force study, I appointed a cadet-officer team

Committee and my honor staff. I am enthusiastically awaiting their

review all the recommendations. Their task was to report back

to me,

and to C1C Theron Mink, the Chairman of the Wing

suggestions on how to speed up the process, while still guaranteeing every cadet the right to a fair hearing of the facts in his case.

Honor Committee, on the implementation opportunities of the

4. On the element of officer involvement. After the physics cheating

entire Task Force final report.

I’m concerned with the Task Force finding that confidence

scandal of 1984 the cadet wing voted to add a single field grade

in the Honor Code and system has declined. Elements of this

officer to the Wing Honor Board composition. The officer (one of

finding: the non-toleration clause is difficult; the presumptive

eight voting members) was added to give the Board some additional

sanction of disenrollment for honor violations is hard; that it takes

maturity and expertise. In cadet honor surveys since then, about one

long to process an honor case; and there is too much officer

half of all cadets recommend we go back to a cadet-only honor board.

too

Significantly, when we ask the same question of only cadets who have

involvement in the system.

been Board members, 75-80% recommend retention of the officer

On those elements. 1. a

board member. The Cadet Honor Committee is still reviewing this

Yes, toleration is difficult. Toleration was difficult when you were

recommendation, so you could say the jury is still out on this one.

cadet; it was when I was a cadet. But it is part of the code voted-in

by the class of 1959, and supported by every class since then. We will continue to work the non-toleration clause-and the principles of trust

and commitment it supports-in our honor education program.

Above all others, the task force’s main recommendation is to highlight the teaching of the Honor Code by case method, which uses situations

drawn from the operational military environment. “This recommendation forms the basis for ensuring greater cadet internalization of the Honor

2. An Honor Code violation does not always lead to the “death

Code, which should provide both cadets and officers with the means to

penalty” of expulsion. In fact, it never has. Each violation is considered

embrace a common perspective,” said General Cams. We are already doing

on a

case-by-case basis, and a number of factors are considered includ-

ing: time under the Honor Code, forthrightness, how severe the alleged

honor education using the case study method and are migrating more

of this training into special workshops structured for each class. But we do even more, and make it more relevant. I have directed the Center

violation was, and the type of reporting, i.e., if the cadet self-reported,

can

admitted or did not admit and was found in violation.

for Character Development to redouble its efforts to improve our honor

The Cams’ Report recommends adding two more categories to

education system. Since General Cams’ team visited the Academy we

this equation: mitigating and extenuating circumstances, and the over-

have hired a USAFA graduate to be Chief of Honor Education. We

all character and record of the cadet while at the Academy. As comman-

have also assigned a reserve officer to the Center to assist him. Most

dant of cadets, I do consider the cadet’s entire record when reviewing

recently, the Academy brought in a case study expert from the University

honor cases and making a retention or disenrollment recommendation

of Washington to discuss better ways of teaching with the Center’s honor

to the

staff and the Cadet Wing’s honor representatives; and last month the

Superintendent. And the cadets on the Wing Honor Board

already have the opportunity to address mitigating factors and extenu-

Center sponsored a case method expert to instruct our cadet honor reps

ating circumstances in making their probation or disenroll recom-

on case

mendations to me. Also, if a cadet is found in violation, he/she gets

training session prior to the Spring semester honor education classes.

study tools and techniques during a one-day honor representative

the opportunity to submit material for consideration, including signed

The Superintendent, the Wing Honor Committee and I will

character reference letters or written statements, and a personal written

continue to work every recommendation made by General Cams’

statement.

Statistically, about the same number of cadets are granted

honor probation each year as those who are disenrolled and/or choose to

resign in lieu of honor sanctions.

Honor Climate Assessment Task Force. To General Cams and all the

members of his team go my heartfelt thanks. Their efforts will make a

good system even better.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

M MMMWPS

Providing t

e extra

margin of excellence

AOG Annual Fund The AOG Annual Fund provides a

Enrichment Seminars (ACES), the Mili-

leaders of character for our nation. The

vehicle for alumni, parents and friends

tary History Symposium, International

AOG relies upon the generous assistance

make an immediate impact on the

Programs, the National Character and

of alumni, parents and friends to maintain

Academy, cadets and the Association of

Leadership Symposium, Cadet Summer

Graduates (AOG).

strong Annual Giving Program. In addi-

Research Programs, Engineering Programs

tion to your Annual Fund gift, the AOG

There are numerous ways to support

and many more. The Annual Fund also

also encourages you to support a class,

cadets, the Academy and the AOG, but

provides direct support for Cadet Clubs,

capital or special project at the same time.

of the most critical is to support the

Prep School Varsity Athletics, the Falcon

Like most universities, the AOG solicits

AOG Annual Fund. The Annual Fund

Heritage Forum and other meaning-

contributions through phone calls, by mail

created to encourage and recognize

ful activities. During the 2000/2001

and soon through our web site.

one

was

the loyal and generous support of alumni,

Academic Year, the AOG Annual Fund

parents and friends. Annual Fund gifts,

provided over $800,000 of direct sup-

the Annual Fund to: Chery Flores,

which are primarily unrestricted (meaning

port for the Superintendent’s Gifts

Director of Annual & Class Giving,

the donor allows the AOG and Academy

Needs List and other Academy needs.

Chery.Flores@usafa.af.mil or Michael

to determine how the money is

spent),

The AOG has already committed more

Brown, Development Program Manager,

provide vital support for Academy pro-

than $800,000 in Annual Fund dollars

Michael.Brown@usafa.mil or by calling

grams and activities that make the cadet

educational experience one of the top in

Academic Year needs. Additionally, the

our

nation.

While the government still pays for

the Academy to meet 2001/2002

educate Air Force officers, appropriated

not cover

funding does not sustain the programs,

all that the Asso-

clubs and other activities that make an

ciation does for its

Academy education exceptional. Cadets

alumni, cadets and

and the Academy have come to count

the Academy.

vate,

philanthropic support.

Year in and year out, gifts to the Annual

the cost of

By giving a gift to the Annual Fund,

donors are given the

opportunity to fulfill

Fund enhance numerous aspects of the

their philanthropic

cadet educational experience by funding

needs annually and

programs like the Academy Character

are

for the AOG’s operating budget since

membership dues do

and friends, benefiting greatly from pri-

(719 ) 472 0300

Annual Fund provides vital support

the essential core elements to train and

upon the generosity of alumni, parents

You may direct your questions about

helping to build

15 Cwfe for Each Dollar Raised! That’s what it costs the AOG to raise funds. This

figure comes from the 2001 audit report by dividing total fund raising costs by total direct public support.

Raising money costs money, but the AOG works hard to keep this cost as low as possible.

Development cont.

Its an easy way to increase your giving level so that the AOG can give more to the Academy. Did you know that these companies are among more than one thousand that match their employee’s contributions to charitable organizations?

American Express • Arco Foundation • Boeing • Brinks • Ciba Specialty Chemicals • Compaq • Cytec

Industries • Delta Air Lines • General Motors • IBM • Johnson & Johnson • KPMG Foundation •

Kelloggs Corporation • Lockheed Martin • Owens Corning • Proctor & Gamble • Raytheon • Texas Instruments • TRW Foundation • UPS • US West • USAA

Does your employer have a matching gift program? Contact your Human Resources or Personnel department to determine whether you can increase your level of giving through a matching gift. Many companies include retirees’ gifts in these

programs. Pick up a matching gift form, complete your portion and send it to the AOG with your

gift every time you make a contribution.

The North Star, the guiding light, a

Ways to Give to the AOG

light that lives on long after the star is gone!

Annual Fund live on long after you are gone

light by making gift to the Association of Graduates and the Air Force Academy through your estate. A bequest in your will, a life insurance policy that you no longer our

can

Full income tax deduction.

Cosh

need, a charitable remainder trust or other types of trusts can

make a substantial difference to the future

of the Academy and the officers it produces. Estate

gifts can substantially reduce taxes and will be used according to your wishes. People who establish estate gifts will be recognized Polaris Donors! olaris will recognize everyone who has included a gift

Academy in their estate plans. All you need to do to be recognized is to notify the AOG s Development Office that you have established the gift. No documentation is required and no specific gift amount need be specified. Donors who do provide documentation of an irrevocable estate gift will be recognized accordingly.

Immediate impact to AOG/USAFA.

Gift ofappreciated assets or

other property

Bequest (by Will or trust)

are

increasing

each year and the Academy’s future success will

depend on private support. Help provide that support by leaving a legacy. Light the way for the future. Be a Polaris Donor!

For

further

information,

Gary Howe by e-mail Gary.Howe@usafa.af.mil or call

contact

tax

savings. Immediate impact to AOG/USAFA.

Maximum flexibility. Full use of assets

during lifetime. Estate tax savings.

Gift oflife insurance

to the AOG and the

The needs of the Academy

Full income tax deduction. Capital gains

Ability to make larger gift with smaller annual (or one-time) cash outlay. Income tax deduction

for current value and/or cost

of premiums.

Gift ofpersonal residence or

farm

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

savings.

Gift with life income for

Lifetime income. Income, capital gain, and

donor and/or spouse

estate tax

Bequest ofIRA or qualified

Income and estate tax savings. Assets

retirement plan assets

savings.

may be taxed at rates as high as 85% at death if

passed to beneficiaries.

Gift of income with assets

Immediate impact for AOG/USAFA. Estate tax

to heirs

savings. Increased inheritance for heirs.

him at (719) 472-0300. For more information and a free booklet on charitable giving and estate

planning, contact the AOG Development Office atfiiMKjtfglSIlII nr e-mail

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CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

BEHIND THE SCENES

Cadet Ideas By Supunnee Ulibarri

uilding a better machine for the students of

is the

great deal of paperwork involved in the process. The paperwork tends to

goal Engineering 410. The class, a capstone course and core requirement for

frustrate the students, but they have to

all first class cadets here, evaluates their

the Air Force,” he said.

understand mats how things are done in

knowledge of engineering concepts. “The cadets

use

what

they

Students also work under time and have

learned all year long to design and build a

project based on a need or request,” Capt. Erik Bowman, ‘91. Project

said

ideas are sometimes based on needs from the surrounding community. “We get a few requests from people from the com-

munity and we are always open to more,”

budget constraints. There are timelines set forth by faculty throughout the semester. “The cadets have roughly $400 in material they can use to construct the device. They also have a $100 in impact funds that they can draw from if they need any other miscellaneous services or materials,” Bowman said.

Bowman said. Instructors will also fur-

Even with careful

planning and

that incorporates structural, mechanical

guidance from the cadre, the inventions don’t always pan out. “We’ve had a few [devices] that weren’t operational.

and electrical

But the important point in this is the

nish students with

challenges as well.

Ideas generally involve creating a device

aspects,”

Bowman said.

Students are often faced with the task of

making

device work better.

cadets

can

often learn the

most

from

Because

the

recipient

traveled

frequently, the ramp had to meet airline specifications such as, portability and size and weight constraints. Also the engineering students created a transport system for the band members of Rampart High

Although cadets receive no monetary

semester to

media day where all their efforts are put

go into

display. This year’s was Dec. 7. “We had more than 22 different projects out there. A few teams competed against each

payment for their creations, Bowman believes the opportunity to help someone in need

finish their projects. “They design process first. It’s usually about half way through the semester before they actually start building the

device,” he said. Bowman added the course

kept in line with procedures

used in real life situations. “There is

semester

the class holds

sclerosis.

Each

pinewood derby tracks to new high-tech wheel chairs for handicapped children, to a specialized satellite component,” she said. “The quality of the workmanship is of the highest quality. Cadets not only take the design and construction seriously but also maintain a continued relationship with the contractor in order to satisfy the design constraints they have provided,” she said. For example earlier in the year, the class was tasked with building a portable ramp for an individual with multiple

School to move their equipment.

their mistakes,” he said.

Students have the duration of the

Squadron 31 and an Engineering 410 student. “Their purposes [projects] range from

other for the best project. “The projects are

done

Cadet 1

community service,” said

Class Lara Coppinger, of Cadet

is payment

enough for the cadets in his

class. “We are always open to suggestions from other people both on and off base. The cadets get a great amount of satisfaction B from helping others.”

creatio AOG support of over $4000 allows cadet creations to benefit

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BEHIND THE SCENES

Demonstrator whets cadets’

appetites By John Van Winkle Tomorrow’s fighter pilots got a taste of the future thanks to a visit

Lockheed Martin Corporation technician, Dick Mather, shows how the F-22 demonstrator displays tactical information.

by Lockheed Martin Corporation’s YF-22 Demonstrator at the Air Force Academy, Nov. 12-16.

Lockheed Martin staffers and test pilots, allowing an up-close and personal introduction to the advantages of the Air Force’s next air

supremacy airframe, displayed the demonstrator, along

with videos and talks. “We originally developed the cockpit to help tell the F-22 story, what makes it different from the legacy airplane it’s going

replace, the F-15,” said Joe Oberle, Director of F-22 TACAIR Requirements for Lockheed Martin. The four pillars of the F-22 are low observability, supercruise, integrated avionics and unmatched agility, said Oberle. “Those are things that make it revolutionary over the F-15C it’s going to replace.” “But trying to describe those four things to a non-aviator and to a layman—perhaps a congressional member or staffer or someto

one

things I’ve been emphasizing for these guys that come to school here is the F-22 is supposed to be operational at Langley in 2005. Well, the class of 2005’s already here, so by the time they finish pilot training, it’s going to have been operational at Langley for a little bit. I’ve been telling them that these are the men and women who are going to be flying the F-22,” said Norman. In addition to flying F-22s and F-I6s for Lockheed, Norman is also a lieutenant colonel with the Air Force Reserve, serving as an instructor at the Air Force Test Pilot School at Edwards Air Force Base, Calif. He has 3,500 flying hours in 50 different aircraft, and is a 1982

Academy graduate. “I came to Academy when the F-16 was brand new and now I have 3,000 (flying) hours in it,” said Norman. “Twenty years later, these guys are going to get the same opportunity in the F-22.” The timing is near perfect for members of the Class of 2002,

like that—is very difficult for them to grasp. So one picture

Currently, several F-22 Raptors are being used

is worth a thousand words. We don’t have any two-seat airplanes in

the F-22 program—they’re all going to be single seat. So this is what we use in

lieu of those two-seaters to show those things like stealth,

for airframe and

supercruise, integrated avionics and maneuverability.”

avionics testing.

The F-22 represents the combined efforts of Lockheed Martin

The fighter is due

Corporation, Boeing and Pratt & Whitney, as well as a host of

to go operational

defense subcontractors. Meanwhile, Lockheed has been using

in 2005.

the F-22 demonstrator to inform key audiences about the F-22’s lethal advantages in air-to-air combat. “We started about two years ago bringing it out to the Air Force Academy, where this is the future of the United States Air Force and the best and brightest of Americas youth,” said Oberle.

“This is going to be their airplane. So we wanted to marry that

youthful enthusiasm and talent, with the latest and greatest airplane America has to offer.” Oberle, Lockheed experimental test pilot Alan Norman and technician, Dick Mather, spent most of a week briefing classes, cadets and Academy leadership about the F-22. “One of the

they learned what their Air Force Specialty Codes-i.e., their Air Force jobs-would be in early November. For many, like Cadet 1st Class Matthew Tarantino it’s off to pilot training after graduation for them. The Cadet Squadron 31 future aviator has aspirations of flying fighters. “It’s what everybody wants to fly,” said Tarantino, who has already completed introductory flying training. “It’s the new plane out there. It’s the one we’re going to be on top of the world with for the next 20 years, so everybody here wants to fly it.” RH as

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

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Working Together

Toll free: 1-800-571-1161

BEHIND THE SCENES

S Cadets

Build Hogans for those in need By Jennifer Brugman

ome

Academy personnel recendy attended a traditional Navajo hogan blessing in Gallup,

N.M. for three homes they helped build.

“The reception has been very positive as far as the program itself is concerned,” said Joseph G.

Esparza, Southwest Indian Foundation human services director. “The gentleman that got the first house, before he even saw it, he couldn’t stop thanking us.” The hogans the cadets helped build are a modified version of a traditional, eight-sided, Navajo

family dwelling. The posts of the structure represent the four sacred mountains. Each section of the traditional hogan corresponds to structures of the universe. The floor symbolizes Mother Earth while the round roof represents Father Sky. This dwelling cannot be abandoned unless it is struck

by lightning or someone dies in it from a cause other than old age. The hogan is one of the most sacred places for a member of a Navajo family, according to the Seba Dalkai website.

The hogans were built last summer as part of the Civil Engineering Summer Course 351. Cadets and ROTC cadets, with the help of active duty, reserve and civilian mentors, began construction in June and finished the homes in three weeks.

Building the hogan emphasizes training,

education and humanitarian work, according to Lt. Col. Mark Knoff, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering.

“Building the house was a great educational experience,” said Cadet 1st Class Gregory Starling. “Many of my friends who are also civil engineering students at other

universities do not have opportunities like this. These are real

world projects that we will be designing and supervising wherever our careers

take us. It gives us great insight to know what it is like to actu-

ally build and apply different aspects of architecture in the houses.” In April and May, the Air Force craftsmen began work on the gill building proto-type. Each day for three weeks a rotating flight of cadets would work on the hogans. After the house is finished, it is declared as excess

property and the Southwest Indian Foundation arranges for the

transportation of the hogan. The Foundation also provides the wiring,

plumbing and concrete when the dwelling arrives in New Mexico. “They’re very well built,” said Knoff of the hogans. However, reading plans and hammering nails are only part of the lessons cadets learned

More than 90 Academy and ROTC

from constructing the hogans. “It’s giving cadets a place to give back to their country,” Knoff said. The cadets agree. “I can’t wait to get down to New Mexico and attend the dedication ceremony,” said Cadet

cadets worked with active

2nd Class Andy G. Allen. I doubt very many people have ever been to such a revered event. To

duty, reserve and civilian

know that I helped give these people a new home gives me a great sense of pride.”

mentors to get hands-on

Harvey Sandoval was the first person told that he was getting a new house. Sandoval has a

house building training.

wife and three daughters, who are high school age, according to Esparza. “They were living in a trailer that was falling apart,” Esparza said of the Sandovals.

“They had been waiting for a new

house for many years and he couldn’t stop thanking everybody. He made the girls go to school [the

day the houses were delivered]. They didn’t want to go to school but when they came down the

highway on the bus the first thing they saw was the house. They were so excited.” Sandoval’s daughters were so happy about the new house that they slept in it each night for three weeks before running water and electricity were hooked up. The Academy cadets and personnel were thanked for their efforts with a banquet.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

A Janitor’s

10 Lessons in

Leadership By Col. James Moschgat, ’77 William “Bill” Crawford certainly was an unimpressive figure, one you could easily overlook during a hectic day at the U.S.

Air Force Academy.

Mr. Crawford, as most of us referred to him back in the late

1970s, was our squadron janitor. While we cadets busied ourselves preparing for academic exams, athletic events,

Saturday morning parades and room inspections, or never-ending leadership classes, Bill quietly moved about the squadron mopping and buffing floors, emptying trash cans, cleaning toilets, or just tidying up the mess 100 college-age kids can leave in a dormitory. Sadly, and for many years, few of us gave him much notice, rendering little more than a passing nod or throwing a curt, “G’morning!” in his direction as we hurried off to our daily duties. Why? Perhaps it was because of the way he did his job-he always kept the squadron area spotlessly clean, even the toilets and showers gleamed. Frankly, he did his job so well, none of us had to notice or get

shoulders, a quiet gait, and an averted gaze. If he noticed the hustle and bustle of cadet life around him, it was hard to tell.

So, for whatever reason, Bill blended into the woodwork and became just another fixture around the squadron. The Academy, one of our nation’s premier leadership laboratories, kept us busy from dawn till dusk. And Mr. Crawford

...

well, he was just a janitor.

That changed one fall Saturday afternoon in 1976. I was

Bill was an old man working in a young person’s world. What did

reading a book about World War II and the tough Allied ground campaign in Italy, when I stumbled across an incredible story. On Sept. 13, 1943, a Private William Crawford from Colorado, assigned to the 36th Infantry Division, had been involved in some bloody fighting on Hill 424 near Altavilla, Italy. The words on the page leapt out at me: “in the face of intense and overwhelming hostile fire with no regard for personal safety on his own initiative, Private Crawford single-handedly attacked fortified enemy positions.” It continued, “for conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity at risk of life above and beyond the call of duty, the

he have to offer us on a personal level?

President of the United States ...”

Finally, maybe it was Mr. Crawford’s personality that rendered him almost invisible to the young people around him. Bill was shy, almost painfully so. He seldom spoke to a cadet unless they addressed him first, and that didn’t happen very often. Our janitor always buried himself in his work, moving about with stooped

“Holy cow,” I said to my roommate, “you’re not going to believe this, but I think our janitor is a Medal of Honor winner.” We all knew Mr. Crawford was a WWII Army vet, but that didn’t keep my friend from looking at me as if I was some sort of alien being. Nonetheless, we couldn’t wait to ask Bill about the story on Monday.

WINTER 2002

involved.

After all, cleaning toilets was his job, not ours.

Maybe it was his physical appearance that made him disappear into the background. Bill didn’t move very quickly and, in fact, you could say he even shuffled a bit, as if he suffered from some sort

of injury. His gray hair and wrinkled face made him

appear ancient to a group of young cadets.

...

And his crooked smile, well, it looked a little funny. Face it,

CHECKPOINTS

PERSPRCTIVE

greetings with a direct gaze and a stronger “good morning” in return, and he flashed

among us, and was a part of our team.

ford bright and early

Monday and showed

his crooked smile more often.

Be courteous to all around you, regardless of

We met Mr. Craw-

him the page in ques-

everyone now seemed to notice it more.

common

anticipation and doubt

Bill even got to know most of us by our

our

faces. He starred

at it for a few silent

and then quietly uttered some-

thing like, “Yep, that’s me.” Mouths agape, my roommate and I looked at one another, then at the book,

first names, something that didn’t happen often at the Academy. While no one ever

formally acknowledged the change, I think became Bill’s cadets and his squadron. As often happens in life, events sweep us

away from those in our past.

both stuttered, “Why didn’t you

The last time I saw Bill was on gradua-

tell us about it?”

ever

He slowly replied after some thought,

pened

long time ago.”

perfunctory “hellos” to heartfelt greetings, his demeanor and personality outwardly changed. It made a difference for all of us.

Take Time to Know Your People. Life in the military is hectic, but that’s no excuse

for not knowing the people you work

for and with. For years a hero walked among

tion day in June 1977. As I walked out of the

us at

squadron for the last time, he shook my hand and simply said, “Good luck, young man.”

Who are the heroes that walk in your midst?

“That was one day in my life and it hapa

courtesies, help bond a team. When

daily words to Mr. Crawford turned from

and quickly back at our janitor. Almost at once we

rank or position. Military customs, as well as

tion from the book,

on our

moments

The squadron gleamed as always, but

Courtesy Makes a Difference.

With that, I embarked on a career that has been truly lucky and blessed.

the Academy and we never knew it.

Anyone Can Be a Hero. Mr. Crawford certainly didn’t fit anyone’s standard definition of a hero. Moreover, he was just a

I guess we were all at a loss for words

Mr. Crawford continued to work at the

after that. We had to hurry off to class and

Academy and eventually retired in his native

Bill, well, he had chores to attend to. How-

Colorado where he resides today, one of four

may be the hero who rises to the occasion

ever, after that brief exchange, things were

Medal of Honor winners living in a small town.

when duty calls. On the other hand, it’s

never

that we had a hero in our midst-Mr. Craw-

ford,

A wise person once said, “It’s not life

again the same around our squadron.

Word spread like wildfire among the cadets

our

janitor, had won the Medal!

that’s important, but those you meet along

the way that make the difference.” Bill was one

who made a difference for me. While

private on the day he won his Medal. Don’t sell your people short, for any one of them

easy to turn to your proven performers

when the chips are down, but don’t ignore

the rest of the team. Today’s rookie could and should be tomorrow’s superstar.

Leaders Should Be Humble. Most

Cadets who had once passed by Bill

I haven’t seen Mr. Crawford in over twenty

with hardly a glance, now greeted him with

years, he’d probably be surprised to know

modern day heroes and some leaders are

smile and a respectful, “Good morning,

I think of him often. Bill Crawford, our

janitor, taught me many valuable, unforget-

anything but humble, especially if you calibrate your “hero meter” on today’s

table leadership lessons. Here are ten I’d

athletic fields. End zone celebrations and

like to share with you.

self-aggrandizement are what we’ve come to

Mr. Crawford.”

Those who had before left a mess for the “janitor” to clean up started taking it upon themselves to put things in order.

Be Cautious ofLabels. Labels you

Most cadets routinely stopped to talk to

tions. He’d show up dressed in a conser-

place on people may define your relationship to them and bound their potential. Sadly, and for a long time, we labeled Bill as just a janitor, but he was so much more.

vative dark suit and quietly talk to those

Therefore, be cautious of a leader who

You Think You Deserve. We in the military

who approached him, the only sign of his

callously says, “Hey, he’s just an Airman.”

work hard and, dang it, we deserve recognition,

heroics being a simple blue, star-spangled

Likewise, don’t tolerate the O-1, who says,

right? However, sometimes you just have to

lapel pin. Almost overnight, Bill went from

“I can’t do that, I’m just a lieutenant.”

persevere, even when accolades don’t come your

weren’t nomi-

Mr. Crawford changed too, but you

Everyone Deserves Respect. Because hung the “janitor” label on Mr. Crawford, we often wrongly treated him with less

had to look closely to notice the difference.

respect than others around us. He deserved

officer or airman

After that fall day in 1976, he seemed to

much more, and not just because he was

of the quarter as

Medal of Honor winner. Bill deserved

you thought you

Bill throughout the day and we even began

inviting him to our formal squadron func-

being a simple fixture in our squadron to one

of our teammates.

move

with more purpose, his shoulders

didn’t seem to be as stooped, he met our

respect because he was a janitor, walked CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

expect from sports greats. Not Mr. Craw-

ford-he was too busy working to celebrate his past heroics. Leaders would be wellserved to do the same.

Life WontAlways Hand You What

way. Perhaps you

nated for junior

should-don’t let 49

PERSPECTIVE

King said, “If life makes you a street sweeper,

at the Air Force

be the best street sweeper you can be.” Mr.

classes, read hundreds of books, and met

lence. Private Bill Crawford didn’t pursue

Crawford modeled that philosophy and

thousands of great people. I gleaned leader-

glory; he did his duty and then swept floors

helped make our dormitory area a home.

ship skills from all of them, but one of the people I remember most is Mr. Bill Crawford and the lessons he unknowingly taught. Don’t miss your opportunity to learn. Bill Crawford was a janitor. However, he

that stop you.

Don't pursue glory; pursue excel-

Life is a Leadership Laboratory.

for a living.

No Job is Beneath a Leader. If

All too often we look to some school or

Academy, took dozens of

Bill Crawford, a Medal of Honor winner,

PME class to teach us about leadership

could clean latrines and smile, is there a job

when, in fact, life is a leadership labora-

beneath your dignity? Think about it.

tory. Those you meet everyday will teach

was

you enduring lessons if you just take time

great American hero. Thanks, Mr. Crawford,

Pursue Excellence. No matter what task

life hands you, do it well. Dr. Martin Luther

By Ken Wright, AOG

stop, look and listen. I spent four years

also a teacher, friend, role model and one

for some valuable leadership lessons.

The Rest of the Story... pages of newspaper articles and tiny clip-

On April 13, 1945, Crawford was

pings chronicling the life of Bill Crawford,

liberated from a POW camp near Hanover,

it’s obvious to me that it never occurred to

and soon returned to the United States to

Mr. Crawford that he was anything more

resume a

than an American man, trying to live the

The Pueblo native left the Army at the

American dream.

end of the war, but after starting a family

His heroics on that day, late in the summer one

of 1943, can be inscribed on but

page of a long and memorable book

life with some sense of normalcy.

in 1946 with his new bride, Eileen Bruce,

he rejoined the following year to become a recruiter—a job he loved because it allowed

which was his life. However, his story did

him to interact with young people who

not end there.

were

Although Crawford was very

proud that his country awarded him its highmilitary honor, he never lost his humbleand values that he possessed long before trudging up that hill at Altavilla. It was a good thing that Crawford knew who he was that day, because on the following morning he awoke as a prisoner of Nazi Germany. His imprisonment

trying to make the most of their lives. Crawford enjoyed that interaction so

est

much that after 23 years of military service,

ness

he took the ordinary job of janitor at the

Academy, just so he could be amongst the young men and women he admired so

much. It mattered not to him that his new

position didn’t command a great deal of respect from those around him. His own

lasted 19 long months, and included a

self respect and belief that if he was going

52-day, 500-mile march across Germany

to be a

in the dead of winter. It was during those

tor anyone had ever seen, was more than

Crawford’s son and daughter, Dan Crawford and Beverly Kite,

long months that his faith in his self and

remember their father not just as a war hero, but as a devout

his God grew stronger than ever.

enough. That same sense of purpose and self respect permeated his entire life.

Christian and loving father.

or one to measure

As a POW, Crawford received a sur-

the sum of their

prising letter from his camp commander. It

life based upon the events of a single

said that he had been awarded his country’s

day, is at best, unfair. Even if that day was one of great glory and achievement, no

highest honor—the Medal of Honor. Even more surprisingly, he found that it had been awarded to him posthumously—as it was thought by the U.S. Army that he was

man or woman

should take measure of

themselves by considering a mere 24 hours. After looking through pages upon

killed in action. CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

janitor, he would be the best jani-

When Bill Crawford was laid to rest

Academy in the Spring of 2000, our loss was one of great depth. We lost more than a war hero, we lost a symbol of what we all hope we can measure up to at the Air Force

in our own lives. As one newspaper article

put it, he was “... a man of humble station in life, but he always had a regal bearing.

UP CLOSE

Incredible Journey GRADS CHALLENGE YOUTH TO PURSUE DREAMS "

A.J., you've demonstrated the type of determination and desire that we

look for in an Air Force pilot, if you study hard and continue to do the

best in everything you do, you'll one day realize your dreams." -

By Staff Sgt. Cino Mattorano 21st Space Wing Public Affairs

B-2

Spirit pilots from Whiteman Air Force Base, Mo. visited Peterson AFB, CO recently to make a presentation to a Colorado Springs,

Colo., boy who was adopted from foster care. The 325th Bomb

Squadron pilots decided to make the presentation after reading a story in the Colorado Springs Gazette about 10-year-old A.J. Barretts struggles within the foster care system and his eventual adoption. In the story, A.J. expressed an interest in flying thestealth

bomber. The pilots decided to personally deliver a lithograph of a

B-2, signed by members of their unit, to the boy who showed

the determination it takes to be a pilot. “My mother-in-law sent me a

copy of the story and I was so impressed with A.J.’s story

I decided we ought to do something for him,” said Capt. Rhett

Binger, ’91 from the 325th BS. “We decided to pass a lithograph around the squadron and have everyone sign it and then send it to A.J. When I took it in to our squadron commander to sign, he asked us why we didn’t just fly it out there in person, so that’s what we decided to do.” Because of the high cost involved with flying the B-2, Binger

and three other 325th BS pilots made plans to fly T-38 Talon trainer aircraft here as a training flight. Binger and Capts. Marvin

Ashe Baker, Joe Hall, ’92 and Dave Benson, ’93 gathered squadron

items like a hat, scarf and squadron patches and the signed

lithograph, then contacted the Barrett family to arrange a meeting. When Anne Barrett, his new mother, told A.J. about the visit, he summed up his excitement in one word, “Cool!”

During the visit, the B-2 pilots encouraged him to pursue his dreams. “A.J., you’ve demonstrated the type of determination and desire that we look for in an Air Force pilot,” said Binger. “If you

study hard and continue to do the best in everything you do, you’ll one S3 day realize your dreams.” CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

Capt. Rhett Binger, '91

ENDURANCE By Matt Knight at 16 years old Never give up, No matter who tells you its okay

You must keep pressing on Never be content to stay. Push! Push! And dig down deep within

Jr^j/our hardest, and

ifyou fall You know that you ve done more than most;

even

You've given it your all.

All of the effort, which sometimes seem for nothing Those hard days you ve been struggling to understan Don't do it for anyone at all but yourself Finish the fight, do your best, be absolutely all

ft..:.,

\Y/L™

}l t

that you can receive discouragement,

y Or trials to your faith,

The future seems uncertain, And all life seems a waste

A F/WHER’S

Just try to keep on believing

Keep on pressing on For in the end,

You're only accountable to one:

H| |

Yourself.

he Academy mourned the death of one of its own over the

Christmas holidays when Cadet 3rd Class Matthew Knight

of Cadet Squadron 25 was killed in an automobile accident Dec. 28 while home on leave in Ruskin, Fla.

Knights father, Mr. Ron Knight pays special tribute to Matthew's spirit and the Academyfamily at a moving memorial service at the Cadet Chapel on 15 January. The following are his remarks.

{

By Ron Knight, Father don’t like the circumstances but considering those tragic circumstances leading up to today and considering the love that Matthew had for the Academy, today there is no other place I would rather be. I know words are hard to come by for you to express your thoughts, emotions and sympathy that you have

for us. If these circumstances were reversed, I don’t know what I would say to you. Remember the old cliche “Actions speak louder than words”? Last night’s vigil, your presence and your prayers say it all.

Today I am standing in the midst of the most prestigious learning center in the world and I am looking at a room full and a campus filled with Matthew’s friends and classmates.

Matthew was a unique and talented

individual and so are you. Matthew had short and long term goals. He knew where he was and where he wanted to go and so do you. Matthew knew the USAF Academy is special and so do you. Matthew was special and so are you. We first visited the Academy in the summer of 1999 and I thought it was a special place-but why? When we

brought Matthew to join the Cadet Corps on 29 June 2000, I thought, “Was it the natural surroundings CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

that make it so special?” When his mother and I came here for our first parents weekend, I

thought, “Was it the beautiful buildings that make it so special?” When we visited Matthew and attended some of his classes this past parents’ weekend, I thought, “Was it the vast and unlimited academic possibilities or that someday these men and women are going to lead us into space and the unknown make it so special?” Matthew died the morning of 28 December. In no time we received a phone call from MacDill Air Force Base and later that day, 3 Air Force men from MacDill were at our home. Within a day Major Bernhart, Matthew’s AOC, was at our home. That same day Brigadier General Taco Gilbert, the Commandant telephoned and talked with my wife and I. General Gilbert told me something I will always remember. He said, “Matthew made a commitment to the Air Force and the Air Force has a commitment to him.” With that statement, I then knew what makes the Air Force and the Academy so special. It is not the natural surroundings, it is not the

beautiful buildings nor the academics. You could take away all of the “stuff” that you see and the Air Force would

still be special. What makes the Air Force and the Academy so special is you! It is the Air Force family and you allowed our

Matthew to become a part of that family and for this I give you my eternal THANK YOU. You have all ask what you can do for us. ance

My answer is that I charge you with the following: Read Matthew’s Endur-

and more importantly—Live It! You have been blessed with talents that most of us can’t even dream of.

Develop,

and more importantly SHARE those talents. As you have found, this path that you have chosen to follow is not an If for Matthew’s and easy path. you really want to do something for Matthew, if you want to do use

something

family

friends, develop those special talents that you have and lead the rest of us down this most difficult of life’s paths into the future. I thank God for our Matthew.

Today and forever I thank God for YOU! CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

H 53

UP CLOSE

ajor Henry C. Thompson, Class of 1987, has been named

the winner of the 2002 Colonel James Jabara Award for

Airmanship for his outstanding contributions to airpower during Operations NORTHERN WATCH and ALLIED FORCE. The Jabara Award, named in honor of Colonel

James Jabara, America’s first jet ace, is given annually to an Air Force Academy graduate whose actions directly associated with an aerospace vehicle set

him/her apart from their contemporaries.

Major Thompson first distinguished himself as a combat leader and master

tactician

part of Operation NORTHERN WATCH.

During

that time, Major Thompson planned, briefed and executed multiple highly successful combat missions as lead Weapons System Officer against a variety

of sophisticated air defense targets. As one of the premier experts on the

employment of the Air-to-Ground Missile (AGM)-130, he was handpicked to

plan and employ the first-ever combat launch of the weapon system. He

later developed a new version of the munition specifically designed to engage state-of-the-art air defense batteries from a safe distance while virtually elimi-

nating collateral damage. In support of Operation ALLIED FORCE, Major Thompson served as

the Mission Commander for air attacks against targets deep inside Serbian

defended territory. He led the coordination effort of over 35 allied aircraft

against six different target locations surrounding the heavily defended Nis

military airfield in northern Kosovo. During the mission, Major Thompson

monitored the

status

of all coalition aircraft while

leading his flight of four F-15Es.

simultaneously

Despite heavy AAA defenses, and one

malfunctioning GBU-24, Major Thompson released the other weapon and skillfully guided it to the target. The single weapon was enough to com-

pletely destroy the building.

Major Henry Thompson, '87, named 2002 Jabara Award Recipient

the Engaging

Enemy W

By Capt. Mark Hille,’97

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER

2002

UP CLOSE

On a groundbreaking mission, Major Thompson was again handpicked to

drop the first AGM-130s of the campaign. He led a daring attack against

the Dakovica Serbian Army barracks. After releasing his own munitions,

Major Thompson monitored his wingman’s AGM-130 attack. Realizing the data link guiding his wingman’s weapon had failed, Major Thompson

immediately assumed control just seconds before impact and flawlessly guided the bomb to the intended target, scoring a direct hit.

Followed by

his own successful second attack, Major Thompson controlled an unprecedented three direct hits on three separate targets in one engagement. This

mission demonstrated

Major Thompson’s mastery of airmanship and

established the AGM-130 tactics’ standards used by all aircrew during the remainder of the conflict.

Major Thompson again demonstrated his skill during a strike mission against the heavily defended Ponikve petroleum storage facility. After suecessfully destroying the target, Major Thompson’s flight was attacked by no

less than eleven surface-to-air missiles fired in rapid succession. The

missiles were released from all directions, with as many as six airborne at one time. While

his pilot was executing defensive maneuvers, Major

Thompson dispensed countermeasures and visually tracked the airborne missiles. Despite numerous explosions directly in front of and above his own

aircraft, he selflessly directed defensive reactions for the other three aircraft in his formation. Aware of the increasing danger of midair collision, Major

Thompson further directed both geographic and altitude deconflictions to ensure all aircraft were

safely separated and later rejoined during the egress

from enemy territory.

Major Thompson was awarded the Distinguished

Major Thompson and Lt. Dirk Eckhardt (German

Flying Cross in recognition of his heroic actions. For these significant contributions to airpower, Major Henry Thompson will be

th presented the 2002 Jabara Award for Airmanship on the 6 of

April at the Founders’ Day Parade.

Air Force) standing in front of a German Air Force

ECR Tornado during exercise Maple Flag.

’84 Grad selected to be Bronco GM

I T

ed Sundquist,’84 was recently promoted to

General Manager of the Broncos. The move

puts him one step below head coach Mike

Shanah Shanahan in the team’s hierarchy. Sundquist just completed ten years with the Broncos; during the last six he has been the team’s director of college scouting. The promotion makes him one of the youngest general managers in the NFL.

Sundquist, shown here, was a hard running fullback for the Falcons during his days at USAFA. CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

The Academy’s Minority Enrollment Office goes the extra distance to get the word out to the nation’s hidden gems.

By 2Lts. Kalet Gibbons, ’01 and Ann-Kristine Lau ’01 ,

all of you students, I want

you to look around. This

may be your competition to get

into the United States Air Force

Academy. The Academy receives 12,000 applicants every year and from that it offers only 1,250 appointments. It is the 6

most

difficult school to get into in the country, and rightfully so.. .it is a $287,000 scholarship focused on

producing the world’s greatest

Aerospace officers. But look around

again.. .these may also be your classmates. People with whom

you will share times of blood, sweat, and tears. These are the

people with whom you might graduate and serve with, fight with, and are asked to give your life for.

2Lts. Ann-Kristine Lau, ’01 and

Jason Morris, ’01 leave no stone unturned when searchingfor

perspective cadets. The efforts ofthe Academy’s Minority Enrollment

Office has helped boost the numbers of minority cadetsfor the past 20years.

«■%-i

wi i

: ■<

|, y

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Photo by Ken Wright, AOG

v '

That brings a new perspective,

*• v

->v

v4lr-’vSv f ".K.

doesn’t it? So I don’t want you to look at those around

you and

view them as your competition, because once you are at the

This is the message the Minority Enrollment Office

Academy the only person you will compete with is yourself. You will push yourself beyond your limits and test your own strength both mentally and physically. So don’t compare yourself to those around you, but look within yourself to

(MEO) at the Academy presents to hundreds of potential candidates who visit the Academy each year, and to literally

determine if you have what it takes to get in here and what it takes to make it through.”

thousands of high school students around the country.

They are all brand new lieutenants who graduated from the class of 2001. They have volunteered for this one-year special duty assignment in the MEO to increase awareness

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

BEHIND THE SCENES

within the country’s minority communities (African-

moves

American, Latino, Native American, and Asian) of the rich

lieutenants head out the door for recruiting trips to their

opportunities the Academy offers as well as the benefits of the cadet experience. The biggest challenges to recruiting in the minority community is a lack of knowledge about the Academy and a lack of preparation and guidance to enable students to be competitive for an appointment. The MEO

respective regions. There are two lieutenants assigned to each region, so that while one is on the road, the other is handling business at the Academy. All team members are of the highest caliber, going through two rounds of intense interviews before getting

into winter, the office becomes half manned as

the nod of acceptance. The office consists of three former members of wing staff, one group commander,

bridges the gap between those who

one

know about the Academy (and

athletes. Theirs is a cause that the Air Force believes

squadron commander, and three intercollegiate

how to prepare for admissions) and

in, a proud remembrance of what the Academy has to

those who don’t.

offer—the highest academic education, incredible athletics,

Overall, the Air Force officer corps’ racial diversity is

approximately 15% minority, while the enlisted population is about 29% minority. At the

Academy, the total minority percentage is almost 18% for the Class of 2005.

unsurpassed leadership opportunities and training, and the development of impeccable character. The objective of the MEO is to expose as many minorities as possible to these opportunities at the Academy. Besides being recruiters and advisors for the Academy, they also have additional responsibilities. The office also runs the USAFA tour program, linking potential high school candidates with a cadet, while parents are taken on a campus tour. Last year, the MEO hosted over 700 of these

Total Class: 1271

“shadow programs” for hopeful students. It is a busy office

African-American: 81 (6.3%)

and an exciting job. There is satisfaction for the lieutenants

Latino: 78 (6.1%)

in knowing they opened opportunities to many who may

Asian/Pacific Islander: 58 (4.6%)

never

Native American: 10 (.8%)

the honor in helping to produce the next generation of

have otherwise had the chance. Not to mention

aerospace leaders-the finest the world has ever seen!

The MEO lieutenants

working to find talented individuals who can diversify and strengthen the officer corps. They contribute to this goal by identifying, assisting, and counseling qualified minority applicants for admission into the Academy. Thus far, the program has been a huge success. From its inception and through the diligent efforts of all the are

lieutenants who have been

assigned

the MEO throughout

the years, the minority

population

at the cadet

wing has grown from 4% to 19%

since the office opened in 1972.

The class of2005 has a total minority percentage of18%. That’s 3% higher than the current overall Air Force officer corps.

If you know of a talented student, please contact the

Minority Enrollment Office at 1-800-443-3864 or call

The structure of the team is designed for success. Ten

(719) 333-2846 to become an Admissions Liaison Officer.

lieutenants are assigned to one of five regions of the United

Any time you have a moment to spend with a young

States and are based at the Academy. They usually get to work in the region of the country they are from, because

person, spread the “good word” on the benefits of the

they

can

better relate to the students in that area. As fall

Academy and the Air Force—it can make a huge difference in their life and may lead them to our door.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

BEHIND THE SCENES

AOC Support

Progam

Allows Cadets to Lead the way By Cadet First Class Tim Johnson by the Academy’s premier youth mentoring program. This unique program matches two cadets with a child

typically from single parent homes in the Pikes Peak region. It is the only service academy Big Brothers Big Sisters program in the world. The cadets of the Falcon

Club mentor more children, consistently than any other service organization at the Academy or in Colorado Springs. During the last year 176 cadets mentored

Sister

88 children. This year the club hopes to increase the

organization’s size by 15% to serve, for the first time ever, at least 100 children and increase the number of

cadets active in the program to over 200.

Strong cadet leadership is necessary to ensure the program’s sustained success. This year, the Cadet-

Big

and

in-Charge, C1C Nate Loucks, the Assistant Cadetin-Charge, ClC Suzanne Ledyard, the Director of Operations, ClC Jennifer Vettese, the Financial Officer, ClC Jessica Fotridge, and the Public Affairs officer ClC Tim Johnson lead the program. Captain Troy Thomas ’91 serves as the Officer-in-Charge. When C3C Laurel Huber plays with her “Little Sister” as part of the

asked about goals for the program, Thomas asserts, “in

Academy’s Big Brothers Big Sisters program.

addition to the club expansion, I would like to see a new

On a crisp fall day, a child runs excitedly into the

Brother Big 58

appreciation for the leadership role performed by

the cadet staff. The cadets not only direct large-scale

outstretched arms of his Air Force Academy big brother.

activities and build relationships for over 300 individu-

The cadet lifts the smiling boy high in the air, listen-

als, they routinely serve as our ambassadors.” As one

ing attentively

the eager child describes his summer

and all that has happened since their last meeting. After a

few quick stories, they join other kids and cadets in

games of football and soccer. Throughout the afternoon, fun intermixes with

mentoring as the cadet and

child discuss school, friends and family.

example, Captain Thomas points to the praise directed to the cadet staff by now Secretary of State Colin Powell during an America’s Promise ceremony in Denver. The cadet staff served as the only military representatives at a nationally televised ceremony involving Colorado Governor Bill Owens and statewide leaders. Accord-

matched “little” is one of the many made possible

ing to Capt Thomas, “Secretary Powell and Governor Owens each highlighted the remarkable leadership

by the Air Force Academy Big Brothers Big Sisters

of our cadet staff. Watching these future officers lead

program, also known as the Falcon Club. Academic

hundreds of children in the Pledge of Allegiance before

year 2001/2002 marks twenty-five years of service to

children in need of a mentor in the Pikes Peak region

directors was a true honor.” The leadership opportuni-

This description of a big brother mentoring a

crowd of legislatures, teachers, CEOs and non-profit

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

BEHIND THE SCENES

ties that the Big Brothers Big Sisters program gives cadets are

ers

Big Sisters of the Pikes Peak Region, Captain Thomas is

unparalleled. ClC Nate Loucks described what he has learned about leadership during his tenure as the cadet-in-charge stating, “Leadership is all about catching a vision and helping

4,600 disadvantaged children in this community can benefit

others to catch the same. I’ve learned to let the cadets know how

shown by cadets to join the club, I am hopeful we can continue

they benefit from the program while simultaneously emphasiz-

ing my vision for the focus of the club

sary.” The expansion of the program will only be possible with

Each month a child and his

kids come first.”

her big brothers and/or

sisters meet for an event either on the Academy grounds or

keenly aware of the community’s needs. “We estimate that over from a positive role model.

Mountain Zoo, overnight parties at the YMCA, attending

expand to serve at least 200 children by our 30th Anniver-

funding and the combined efforts of cadets and commu-

nity members.

in the local community. Past events include trips to the Cheyenne

Recognizing the strong interest

One member of the community that helps Falcon Club

excel is Big Brothers Big Sisters Program Director, Rene’ Stolfus.

USAFA sporting events, bowling, ice skating, and hiking.

Due to the tremendous efforts of Rene’ Stolfus, the Falcon Club

During each structured event, the child spends time with his

program officer for Big Brothers Big Sisters of Pikes Peak, the

her big brothers and/or sisters. ClC Loucks described how

program is able to function. Rene’ helps to organize events,

much he enjoys the events with his little brother stating, “The

match kids with cadets, and keep all families involved in the

events

provide a great way to hang out with my little brother,

Seth, and let our relationship grow. Nothing beats 3 hours with a

13-year-old who is ready to take out all his pent-up energy

organization. Nine volunteers from the community help out the program as well. These volunteers are usually caseworkers who monitor the relationship between the child and the big brothers

on me. It’s amazing to watch our friendship grow through these

and sisters, providing counsel on issues that arise. All of these

events.” It is experiences like these that help to make the Big

people, the cadets, generous donations, and the children are what make this program possible. Developing character in America’s youth is a continuing goal of every parent, coach and teacher. Not only do the chil-

Brothers Big Sisters program a success for the cadets and the “littles” involved with it. If strength of character and a willing heart were the only

keys to Big Brothers Big Sisters success, there would be no obstacles to its goals. In reality, its growth is limited by funds.

dren of the program learn about character from the cadets, but the cadets develop character by mentoring the children on

the difficult issues they face. Captain Thomas asserts, “Big

Brothers Big Sisters is character development. The cadets reflect the very foundation of the Academy to the community through

their mentoring and friendship. They are challenged moment-bymoment to be

caring, wise, courageous and honorable. Thinking

of the fifteen-year friendship with my own little brother, Donald

Brown, I am confident the cadets grow in character as much as the children.” The program helps the cadets and children involved make better choices when difficult situations arise. Here are what some of the kids involved in the program

had to say about their experience with Big Brothers/Big Sisters C3C Bradurg makes a new friend as a participant in one of the

and their interaction with cadets. “(My Big Brothers/Big Sisters)

Academy’s youth mentoring program.

talk to me and they’re nice people to hang out with.”

Big Brothers Big Sisters survives on the generosity of the cadets,

Sister) is always there to help me and also is fun to play with.”

who actually pay dues to serve their community, and the gener-

“(My Big Brothers/Big Sisters) always make me laugh. We all

ous

support of the Association of Graduates who pay fifty-

“(My Big

like the same sports and outdoor activities.” The children’s

percent of the costs of the program. We also receive annual gifts

experiences would never occur if it were not for the Big Brothers

in honor of two former Big Brothers, Daniel Sullivan, who died

Big Sisters Falcon Club program. The Big Brothers Big Sisters

inal985 F-15 crash and Pace Weber who was killed in a T-3A

program nurtures these relationships and makes a difference in

training flight while a cadet. As a Board Member for Big Broth

the lives of everyone involved.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

B 59

fistful

of MEDALS Wings of Blue take home medals at nationals

BY JOHN VAN WINKLE

Academy’s Wings of Blue parachute competition team took home a

fistful of medals and the second place overall trophy from the

National Collegiate Parachute Championships, during the holidays. Of the 18 individual and aerial demonstration team medals, Wings of Blue members took home nine medals. Academy cadets were also part of three other

composite teams that claimed three more medals in the two- and four-person aerial demonstration events. The parachuting competition featured collegiate teams from Texas A&M,

Kansas, Purdue as well as the perennial parachuting powerhouses of West Point, Southern Illinois University and the Academy. Events are divided into several

individual and team events, most with novice, intermediate and masters levels. This

year’s competition featured two-and four-person freefall aerial demonstrations, individual freefall style demonstrations, and two categories of landing accuracy. In the four-way aerial demonstration category two of the three cadet teams

took first and second place from a field of 10 teams, with scores of 46 and 40 from their four combined jumps. The third place team was a composite of three non-

Wings of Blue cadets who paid their own way to the competition-Cadets 1 st Class Chris Kleinhenz, Eric Freienmuth and Steve Freedman-and Freedman’s brother

Adam, a 19-year-old sophomore at the University of Delaware. “It’s really awesome to jump with my brother, because it’s something you don’t get to do a lot,” said Steve, 21. The 2-year age difference kept them from compet-

ing in most high school sports together, but not at the collegiate parachuting level. “I love it. I remember two years ago, he had like 25 jumps, and I had 150. And he is catching up.

now

Cadets also took home the gold and silver in the two-person aerial demonstration categories. Wings of Blue members also dominated the style and accuracy

competitions this year, with the entire Wings of Blue team jumping in the master’s level.

The style category is one of individual aerial demonstrations, made after

exiting the aircraft and before opening the parachute. The Academy team mem60

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

bers each competed at the master’s levels, and made up 13 of

see

him jump in this year’s competition. “It’s outstanding, just to see the kind of training they

the 17 contestants in that category. Cadet 2nd Class Rob Ice

took the silver with an average score of 9.49 from his three

do and then to watch them jump out of a plane.” Despite

jumps, followed by Cadet 1st Class Robert Nichols with an

the motherly instincts, seeing her son jump out of a plane is

average of 9.59.

not that

Landing accuracy is divided into two events-overall and sport accuracy. The overall accuracy event is solely based upon

yours when they jump out of the plane, you just see the

how close the jumper lands to or on a target, which is the size

Force cadets coming down, so it’s pretty cool.”

bad, she said, “because you don’t know which one is Air

Force Blue canopy, so it’s like you’re rooting for all the Air

of a garbage can lid. Sport accuracy increases the difficulty by

“It’s very interesting to watch the precision with which

placing the target within a 25-foot diameter circle—and measures if they’re able to land and stay on their feet, and if they

they’re doing this. You raised them up, and kind of turned

can

them over to the Air Force. And then, in this type of pro-

keep the parachute within the target circle.

gram, you actually see how it turns out and what they’re

Freinmuth took the silver in sport accuracy, with a

really learning. And when you think about it-they have over 400 jumps; they’ve packed that parachute over 400 times.

perfect score on the second of his three jumps, and a nearperfect landing during his first jump. For overall accuracy,

And they actually now have control over... their life, by how

Cadet 2nd Class Patrick Kennedy earned the bronze, with

well they pack that ‘chute, how well they go through the

combined score of 0.15. Kennedy also took the silver for

operations and efforts and steps and everything else.” “It’s great just to see how much responsibility these

overall parachuting champion, followed closely by fellow

member, Cadet 2nd Class Alex Datzman.

cadets really have, that they actually train others to do this

Accuracy demonstrations drew the largest crowds at this

kind activity, and it’s life and death. And it’s outstanding to

team

them actually learning the leadership and learning the

year’s competition, including several of the cadets’ parents.

see

Lisa Datzman traveled from Indiana to watch her son Alex

responsibility before they’re in the operational Air Force.

train in a wind tunnel in Orlando on Christmas Day, and to

That’s a good program.”

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER

2002

o 10

Cadet Running Suits Cadet issue item. Available in two styles. S

XXL

(Sizes run large)

Dark blue with reflective strips

■o c (V

£ U

$80.00 $48.00

Jackets Pants

Light blue with reflective strips $ 47.00 Pants $25.00 Sets $ 67.00 Jackets

Crew Sweatshirts Crewneck sweatshirt. Features “Air Force" applique with “Academy” embroidered beneath.

Available in Blue or Gray.

$29.00

S-XL

s u

Hooded Zip Sweats Hooded sweatshirt with pockets. Full length zipper. Features “Air Force” applique with “Academy” embroidered beneath.

Available in Blue or Gray.

$33.00

S-XL

Cadet Sweat Suits, T-Shirts & Shorts Cadet issue items. Oversized to accommodate shrinkage.

Tops (S-XL) Pants (S-XL) Set (S-XL)

....$35.00 ....$22.50 ....$55.00

(XXL) $37.00 (XXL) $24.50 (XXL) $58.00

T-Shirt (S-XL)

....$ 8.00

(XXL) $ 9.00

Shorts

(S-XXL)... ....$15.00

Blankets Stadium blanket. “Air Force Academy” and the Academy crest screened on.

Available in blue or gray.

54” x 84”

$21.00

Glassware AOG crest etched on clear glass. Sold individually or in sets of four. 7 3/4 oz... ...$ 4.00

Old Fashion glass

Highball Brandy snifter Wine glass

Set $14.00

10 1/4 oz ...$ 4.00

Set $14.00

12 1/4 oz ...$ 4.50

Set $16.00

10 1/2 oz ...$ 4.00

Set $14.00

...$ 5.00

Set $18.00

7 3/4 oz... ...$ 5.00

Set $18.00

12 oz

Goblet

10 oz

...$ 5.00

Set $18.00

Pilsner glass

12 oz

...$ 5.00

Set $18.00

Ceramic Mug, Coasters 12 oz. mug AOG crest on one side and USAFA crest on the other side

Pegasus coasters Terra Cotta and blue. Water absorbent. $25.00 Leather coasters in tin case.

Three with AOG crest and three with USAFA crest.

$15.00

s 0 n

3* &

3 a

Saber

Official United States Air Force Academy Cadet Saber. *

$ 6.00

Set of four

Set of six

Available to Grad members only.

$185.00

Saber with scabbard

1/1

License Plate Frames Four styles from which to choose.

FALCONS Blue lettering on a white background FALCONS White lettering on a silver background ALUMNI Blue lettering on a white background ALUMNUS White lettering on a silver background Each frame

$4.50

Any two frames... $8.00

Plaques Marble plaque Etched falcon on white marble Wooden chapel plaque

$70.00 $ 17.00

Walnut plaque Laser engraved of the cadet area. Can be

purchased with or without a plate suitable for engraving. $ 110.00

coo zr cr. </) 0)

0)0

The Association of Graduates is the proud sponsor of

SMIRIT AND FLIGHT A Photographic salute to the USAF

Academy

P>/'/

Over 150

Color Photographs

/?>. e

by Acclaimed Photographer ELIZABETH GILL LUI Please send me

copies at $46.00 each. ($40.00plus $6.00 shipping and handling)

TOTAL D UE $_

COLORADO PURCHASES: See below for applicable information. STREET:

NAME:

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Telephone.!

Mail to:

3116 Academy Dr.

Name on card:

USAF Academy, CO 80840-4473

Signature

Phone: 719-472-0300 DSN: 333-2067

COLORADO SALES TAX: Colorado Sales Tax is required for sales as

follows: Doolittle Hall and El Paso County

Fax: 719-333-4194

Doolittle Hall or mailed to a Colorado address

3.9%. Colorado Springs

—

6.4%. Elsewhere in Colorado

E-mail: aog@aog-usafa.org

2.9%

The information reflected in the directory is obtained from members of the Service Academy 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 18,000 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.

Form

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copies of the 2002 SABRD at $40.00 each

(plus $8.95 shipping and handling, $48.95 total ea.)

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able online (iSABRD). For

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Books and Videos

...Item #0510

$ 4.00 $27.95 $19.95 $21.95 $24.95 $50.00 $22.00 $49.50 $10.00 $10.00 $38.95 $19.00

...Item #0351

$40.00

Into the Mouth of the Cat* The story of Lance Sijan, ’65

....Item #0340

The Rescue of BAT 21

....Item #0341

Autographed by Grad, author Darrel Whitcomb, '69 The Iskra Incident Autographed by Grad, author Jimmie Butler, ’63 Red Lightning, Black Thunder Autographed by Grad, author Jimmie Butler, ’63 Separated by War Autographed by Grad, author Ed Herlik, ’80 Modernism at Mid Century History of the architecture of USAFA Courage and Air Warfare* Autographed by Grad, author Mark Wells, '75 Courage and Air Warfare Autographed by Grad author Mark Wells, ’75 The Secret Life of Waldo F. Dumbsquat* Autographed by Grad author Don Hall, ’76 A Certain Brotherhood* Autographed by Grad author Jimmie Butler, ’63 Honor Bound Autographed by one of the authors Return With Honor (Video) Documentary of the experiences of POWs in Vietnam Spirit and Flight A photographic salute to the USAF Academy. Over 150 color photographs. Sponsored by the AOG. By Elizabeth Gill Lui (* Paperback)

....Item #0342 ....Item #0344 ...Item #0345

...Item #0347 ...Item #0348 ...Item #0349 ...Item #0350 ...Item #0352 ...Item #0354

Class Notebooks Two-tone gray suede cover, junior legal size (6’’ x 9”), with class crest embossed on front and

class color stripe; inside note pad and pen; available for the following classes only. Item #5392 ’92 Notebook $ 10.00 Notebook Item #0540 ’93 Notebook 99 Notebook ’94 Notebook Item #5394 Notebook Item #5395 ’95 Notebook 01 Notebook ’97 Notebook Item #5397

Item #5398

Item #5399

Item #5200

Item #5201

AOG Accessories & Other Items

DECALS

Class crests on a window decal (self-adhesive to inside SWEATERS

Specify class year.

Class Decals

Item #43XX

AOG Membership Decal

Item #0502

$ 1.00

Blue and white, 80% 0rlon/20% wool crew neck. “Falcons” ..Item #0150

SM-XLG

....

$21.00

NOTECARDS

HONOR MEDALLION A 2 1/2” diameter brass medallion with

Doolittle Hall Notecards (6” x 4.5”)

the Honor Code on one side and Prop & Wings on the other.

Set of 10 with envelopes

Honor Medallion

Item #0540

Honor Medallion with stand

Item #0541

$12.00 $31.00

BLAZER PATCHES Pin-back patch embroidered with appropriate crest.

AOG Blazer Patch

Item #0313

AFA Blazer Patch

Item #0314

Class of ’59 Blazer Patch Class of ’60 Blazer Patch

Item #0800

of glass) for all years through ’03.

> 0

$19.00

Item #0810

$19.00

Blue keychain with silver AOG crest.. Item #0500

$ 2.00

KEYCHAINS

SQUADRON PINS Pins match patches currently used by squadrons (Please specify Item #0070 $ 4.00 squadron) Item #0501 MAGNETS $ 3.00 Item #0504 UMBRELLA $20.00

..Item #0503

$ 5.00

..Item #0506

$15.00

Item #0507

$15.00

..Item #0430

..Item #0431

$24.00 $24.00

..Item #0432

$ 9.00

Falcon Notecards Set of 10 with envelopes Phoenix Notecards Set of 10 with envelopes JEWELRY Sterling Silver AOG Charm Sterling Silver AOG Tie Tack Prop & Wings Silver and gold colored

3 a \A

HATS AFA hat w/class year.

Navy blue w/embroidered AFA crest and

class year. Please specify class year.

Adjustable leather strap for size AOG hat. Navy blue with brown bill. Adjustable strap for fit

Item #0310

$18.00

item #0311

$16.00

Fine Art Prints 1. Footfalls Artist Proofs

..Item #0323

2. Here’s a Toast By Keith Ferris.. ..Item #0320

3. Gyrfalcon By Frace

..Item #0321

4. Thunderbird By Rick Broome.. ..Item #0322 5. Aurora By Gallo

..Item #0324

$ 150.00 $ 60.00 $ 75.00 $ 85.00 $ 85.00

$ $ S

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Quality services & support to graduates, cadets and the Academy family

Services By Rich Downing, Col., USAF (Ret.) ’70 Under Construction

Stop-Look-Read: The new look to the “Services” page will provide interesting and current information on AOG activities, programs and events. We are proud of what we do and our many accomplishments and want to share some of them with you. You will also notice

that, for your convenience, most Career Transition announcements, merchandise advertisements and chapter news are now consolidated on

the following pages instead of being spread throughout the magazine. If you have comments or questions regarding Service’s activities

programs, please e-mail me at services@aog-usafa.org.

Academy License Plates

Ring” in honor of their Class Exemplar,

Some of the current agreements include

License plate nears approval: Last year,

Eddie Rickenbacker, which is prominently

MBNA credit card, Budget Car Rental

the AOG received comments from grad-

displayed in the center of the crest.

and Garden of the Gods Travel. The most

uates in

Virginia requesting support in

recent

agreement, with General Electric,

approving a distinctive Academy license

will include Long Term Care insurance.

plate for Virginia residents. After several

Expect to see information later this

months of coordinating with graduates, the

summer on

this important program.

DMV, and the USAFA Staff, the AOG has now

Reunions

started collecting the necessary 350

applications

to have the

plates issued.

2002 Reunion Planning Underway:

If you are a Virginia resident and

Reunion Committees are formed and, with

have questions or would like to participate in this exciting program, e-mail

the assistance of the AOG, they have

Jostens will fly members of the ring

martin.marcolongo@usafa.af.mil or call

committee to their plant in

him at the AOG. Marty is also looking at

final modifications to the crest and watch

other states where it might be possible to

their first ring be manufactured. The

initiate similar programs. More to follow.

AOG began administration of the ring

“

VIRGINIA

—

if CHIWNI •U.S. AIR FORCE ACADEMY*

The following classes are returning home

this fall (subject to final football schedule):

Class

Game/Dates

starting with the Class of 2000.

1962

Navy/2-6 Oct

Since that transition, Jostens has reduced

1967

Notre Dame/16-20 Oct

the price of rings by 20% while increasing

1972

Notre Dame/16-20 Oct

warranty and monetary support to Cadets

1977

Navy/2-6 Oct

and the Academy.

1982

New Mexico/4-8 Sept

1992

New Mexico/4-8 Sept

contracts, '

April to make

started planning their upcoming reunions.

Affinity Programs 2004 Class Crest

Member benefits: The AOG often

Class Selects Crest Design: After working

works with companies to identify services

hands-on with Jostens ring company and

and programs

the AOG, the Class of 2004 has completed

addition to quality service and member

design for its class crest.

discounts, these agreements often result

The class chose to include a “Hat in the 66

support your needs. In

in direct financial support to the AOG.

If you want to know more information about your reunion or POCs visit the AOG web site at www.aog-usafa.org.

Ring Back to Owner

0S0 of the

Graduate Reunited with Ring: The AOG

recently received an e-mail from a West

Golf Course

Point graduate who is a police officer in

Las Vegas. The police recovered a 1989

The

following procedures have been arranged by the AOG for graduates to play golf at the Academy’s Eisenhower Golf course. Graduates with a military ID: Call (719) 333-3456 72 hours in advance and follow the same reservation rules applicable to active-duty personnel not stationed at the Academy and retirees. Green fees are $20. Reciprocal privileges are in effect for active-duty graduates who have annual memberships at other Air Force courses. Golf cart fees are $20. <

Air Force Academy ring after arresting a

robbery suspect. The police contacted the AOG in hopes of returning the ring to its owner.

Within 24 hours, the owner was

found and arrangements were made for the individuals to contact each other and work out the return of the

ring.

If you have lost or found an Academy

ring, contact Donna Porter at

classring@aog-usafa.org. American Express Added Another Credit Card Now Accepted: In

Nonretired, nonactive-duty graduate AOG members: The AOG is allocated eight tee times per month (tee times will be 10 a.m. or later). AOG members who do not have a military ID card may reserve these tee times by contacting Steve Knight at (719) 472-0300 or email steve.knight@usafa.af.mil. He will contact the golf course and notify you of the specific date and tee time reserved. Graduates may schedule only one tee time per month to ensure all eligible graduates have an opportunity to play golf. If by the 25 th of each month the eight tee times have not been reserved, a graduate 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 of $47 for all players. The fee \ is independent of military status or golf course membership.

addition to MasterCard and VISA, the AOG will now accept American Express

for merchandise, reunion, special function and membership charges.

Hiring Companies Is your

Are you

company hiring?

looking for well-educated, well-trained, and motivated workers?

GRABUATE-TQ-GRADUATE

AOG-mail System

Cam .

lldate P° oL Your AOG

has two

programs^

graduates of not only the Air Force Amrl Guard and the

Merchant Marines Acad

’

oTT

‘°

Hm, if you wane an graduates, the Service Academy The AOG has an e-mail forwarding system that graduates can

forum. Each of the three ■n

use

to communicate with other graduates. There is no need to

know the e-mail address of a

graduate to send AOG-mail. The

system was pre-loaded with the home e-mail addresses from the AOG database. Graduates may add, change, or delete their e-mail address from AOG-mail. AOG-mail is accessible through the

“AOG-mail/Class Pages” Link on the AOG Web Main Page.

14-15 i„

«l™en K faCe t0 face with '

academy

year^Aprd^ 26^ nL,T

25 26 1 " DQ DP A '

academy gradates who are eager to apply the'

Service Academ r" (/SARDS) is excellent collection^ where „i|| yon

find a mult,rode of

)

SyS ' em

bring into your organizations.

“S“« 22-23

2 °° and 450

Ae corP°rate world.

Second, the Joint

aces

sessions this

Seattle and November

the ideal

identify academy ^^ ^ Afmy Nav7> Coast VOU

SemLnd "T Kldemy ^ d W° rk ex erie nces to P

‘

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 AOG-mail 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.

Academy graduates will be motivated The right

person is there

For questions

)

waittng fo r

about eirhpr

career@aog-usafa.org

C ^ a,

cal, (714)

W°

rk exP e«ences.

«■**« for your Rrrr

d'tom™'

T‘ r '° r at

The Northern California

Chapter (CA) This chapter’s next event will likely be a golf outing, possibly coupled with a dinner, in the East Bay area. Since their main avenue of communication is by

e-mail, contact Chuckreed@aol.com for more information about this event or

about the chapter itself.

planned along with a spring dinner event. Details on events are posted on their web

Chapter News

site at www.usafa-nc.com,

(Pete Bechtel, ’74 & Glenn Seitchek) The Montgomery Chapter (AL) Under Construction If you want to help create this chapter, contact Steve Martinez at steven.martinez

This chapter continues to participate in Quarterly Interservice Golf Chal-

football game back on 8 November. In spite

lenges. If you want to help this chapter beat the local West Point and Annapolis graduates, check out their website for membership information at http: //aogaz.intranets.com.

were

excited about having an AOG chapter to

serve

the graduates in their area.

Their monthly luncheon program

The Puget Sound Chapter (WA)

the third Friday of each month at

Don’t forget to check out their

Newton’s Southwest Grill in Cary, N.C.

website if you’re interested in joining their

Their annual spring golf outing is also

chapter at www.talon.com/pugetsound.

chapters that started in Fall 2001. They are forming a local board and are actively gathering ideas for activities in 2002. If you want to join this group or provide suggestions, contact George Houle at houlegeo@aol.com.

conjunction with the AFA vs. Colorado State of the Falcons’ loss, the folks in attendance

will continue into 2002. They will meet

This chapter is one of three new

The Arizona Chapter (AZ) This group had their initial meeting in

The AFA Society of North Carolina

(KS)

@maxwell.af.mil to get on the distribution

list.

Outlook

The MidContinent Chapter

Chapter Goals 1.

Celebrate Academy Heritage

Keep abreast of Air Force and USAFA topics

Keep the local community abreast of USAFA topics

Provide graduates networking

opportunities 5.

Interact with other service

academy graduates

GOAL 2

Keep abreast ofAir Force and USAFA topics The Montgomery Chapter (AL) is

working on getting Colonel Hyatt, Director of the Center for Character Development, out for a function in early 2002. The AFA Society of North Caro-

ing Rear Admiral (Ret.) L.F. “Ferg”

Give back to the community

Support the needs and objec-

who told them about the planned activi-

Assist Liaison Officers and

recruit qualified candidates 9.

Assist Parents’ Clubs/Cadets

performance of the Air Force in the 21st century. This chapter is teaming with the Academy to help develop a “space-sawy” officer corps, ultimately leading to a “space cadre.”

lina (NC) held their fall dinner featur-

Norton, the Executive Director of the First Flight Centennial Foundation,

fives of the Academy

tary Roche’s statements indicating the importance of space in evaluating the

ties associated with the 100th Anniversary of the Wright Brothers’ first flight.

The chapter is working with the Dean’s departments to review and provide

suggestions for strengthening space-oriented curricula. They have also started

working with the Commandant’s office to assist in developing innovative approaches to train and educate cadets about the

The Space Chapter is actively

responding to Air Force Force Secre

operational and doctrinal side of space activities.

Chapter Goals cont.

GOAL 3

chapter sponsored the annual Joint Service

Keep the local community abreast of USAFA topics The Space Chapter is supporting

Academy Dinner at the Museum of Flight in November. Approximately 80 grads and guests from Annapolis, West Point, the Coast Guard Academy, and USAFA enjoyed a great evening of food and camaraderie. To top the night off, Tom Cogan of The Boeing Company made a special presentation on Boeing’s planned Sonic Cruiser.

initiatives to create opportunities in Colo-

rado Springs for better understanding of the Air Force’s space activities and its contributions to the nation’s space capabilities.

They have been working with the National Space Science and Technology Institute to help create a Space Journey Exploration Center in Colorado Springs that could be a major new attraction in the region. If you wish to help on this, or any other, Space Chapter program, contact Stan Rosen at srosen6@aol.com or check out

www.usafaspace.tripod.com.

GOAL 5 Interact with other service academy

graduates The Puget Sound Chapter (WA) finished the year off strong when the

GOAL 6 Give back to community The Arizona Chapter (AZ) is host-

ing

choral concert featuring the Grammy

Award winning Phoenix Boys Choir and

the nationally renowned Air Force Academy Cadet Chorale to heighten awareness about Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, and raise money for research to solve the mystery behind the disease, all the while promoting our

The Northern California Chapter

Academy and the Phoenix Boys Choir. The concert will be on Saturday,

(CA) held its annual membership meeting

March 2, 2002 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm,

during December in Marin County. In

dinner. Visiting, networking, and the tell-

promote these outstanding choirs and heighten awareness about ALS. Their black tie affair is currently scheduled to have a guest appearance by Arizona

ing of war stories abounded.

Diamondback World Series Most Valuable

addition to the business aspects, socializing was

encouraged during the accompanying

The Arizona Chapter (AZ) had its

holiday party in December for the Arizona Chapter and friends. Close to 100 people came by to share time with old friends and to meet other graduates and friends.

New Chapters

Player, Curt Schilling, as well as several Arizona and United States dignitaries. ALS is a progressive neuro-degenerative

muscular condition anyone, regardless of race, gender, or age can get. Patients become completely disabled and death usually occurs within five years ofdiagnosis. The cause of

ALS is unknown. There is no known cure.

The chapter has contracted with a professional event planning group to offer three sponsorship packages—Red, White or

Blue, each with tickets to the concert, the VIP session with Curt Schilling and adver-

tising in the 6,500 concert programs. If you would like to help solve the mystery behind ALS by sponsoring this event, or you are interested in tickets, go to the Arizona Chapter web page for more information at http: // aogaz.intranets.com. NEW CHAPTERS IN 2002 The AOG is moving fast to start new chapters at the locations listed below. Our

and new locations started, please contact us at chapters@aog-usafa.org. Alabama Birmingham, Montgomery Alaska Anchorage

Michigan Detroit Minnesota Minneapolis

South Carolina Charleston Utah Salt Lake City

If anyone in

Washington Spokane Wyoming Cheyenne

Britain or Korea

Arkansas Little Rock

Nebraska Omaha

Colorado Denver, Fort Collins

Nevada Las Vegas

Georgia Atlanta

New Jersey McGuire

Hawaii Honolulu

North Dakota Minot

helping start a chapter, please

Idaho Boise

Oklahoma Tinker

Illinois Belleview

Oregon Portland Pennsylvania Philadelphia, Pittsburgh

Indiana Indianapolis

is interested in

APRIL 25-26, 2002 WASHINGTON, D.C. What is SACC ? The SACC is the Service Academy Career Conference supported by the Associations of Graduates 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. Previous conferences have been attended by hundreds of companies and thousands of alumni. Where will the SACC be held? The next SACC will be held at the Ritz Carlton Hotel, Pentagon City in Arlington, Va.. You may obtain a room for the SACC rate, if available. Call (703) 415-5000 for reservations and ask for the SACC rate. There are many other hotels available in the area or stay with classmates or

family in the area. How to register for the SACC: 5. The schedule for the SACC is:

1. Ensure your AOG membership is current as this service is

available to members only.

Thursday, April 25, 2002 —Interview Prep Seminar at 7 p.m. Friday, April 26, 2002 -Registration opens at 9 a.m. and continues throughout the day.

2. Ensure your resume is included in the Joint Service Academies

Resume Database System (JSARDS). To enter your resume, visit the AOG website at www.aog-usafa.org, click on “graduate

-Two open sessions from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. to 6

job programs” and follow the instructions.

p.m. In the ballroom, walk from table to table meeting

3. If you previously submitted your resume to the Joint Service

face to face with recruiters from a wide variety of companies.

Academies Resume Database System, please use the password

Saturday, April 27, 2002

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.

—Recruiters may schedule individual interviews.

When attending the SACC, bring several copies of your resume to

4. To participate in the next SACC, send the following to the SACC office no later than April 10, 2002: -

employment is not guaranteed, the conference offers a unique chance to explore new career opportunities. If you have any questions on this AOG membership service, please contact Wayne Taylor at

Completed registration forms

-A $35 registration fee, payable to SACC -

leave with recruiters as they review resumes collected at the

conference and may contact candidates at a later date. Although

(719) 472-0300 or DSN 333-4513.

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

SACC Candidate Registration Form (Washington, D.C.) NAME (for nametag, no ranks):

USAFA CLASS:

ADDRESS :

PHONE

(Home):

(E-mail):

(Work):

RESUME CATEGORY:

(from web site at www.aog-usafa.org/SACC_Registration.htm) Will you attend the free Interview Prep Seminar? Please include:

EH Registration Form

O Yes

EH Fee $35

EH No EH Resumes (two hard copies)

Mail to: SACC, 247 King George St., Annapolis, MD 21402-5068

The Secret Life of

Waldo f. Dumbsquat

CMC Waldo F. Dumbsquat and his roommate, “Regs” Buch, found themselves wandering around the sixth floor of the

the Code highly if it is to remain something to be proud of. The proper perspective for our Code comes by viewing it as the basis

library. Wonderful artifacts of great men and great events

of a solid structure of ethical and moral rules and guidelines.

decorated the area.

Conduct should not be determined simply by whether an

“Look at this neat pamphlet, Regs,” directed Waldo,

standing

next to an ornate desk.

“Read

something from it,”

about an act being honorable, ask yourself what the most coaxed the doolie’s

honorable action would be and then set your own path

“We will not lie, steal, or cheat, nor tolerate among

HONOR REFERENCE

anyone who does. This is our Honor Code. It is not

provide a complete set of ethical standards

foundation upon which each cadet can build toward much higher ethical and moral plane. The Code

itself is realistic if every cadet accepts and upholds the true

spirit of our code of honor. It is livable, as is easily

seen

in the bonds of trust which exist among all cadets.

The truly honorable cadet will not hide behind his Code, nor

will he try to live by only these bare minimums. Every

HANDBOOK

OF THE

AIR FORCE CADET WING (June 1973, p. 37)

“The Honor Code has been the foundation of

for life; it is a minimum standard, a cornerstone or

spirit of honor should always be your guide.”-

The

roommate.

meant to

is specifically an honor violation; if you are in doubt

act

character for every

graduate since the Class of ’59

adopted It.” noted Regs. “The Code is an aspect of Academy training that has stood the test of time and changes in society.” Waldo pondered for a moment. “Such a simple concept. I don’t think you could make it any better. People just need to step up and do what’s right.. .even when it’s difficult.”

cadet must understand and respect every other cadet to regard

Prep School Plans First Reunion First Graduate Gives Harmon Plans are being made for the first Air Force Academy Prep

School Reunion. It will be held at the Academy in November of 2002. Preppies from all classes are invited to attend this event which will celebrate the 40

Anniversary of the first

graduating class from the Prep School. Over the years the Prep School has provided the Academy with over 5,000 cadets. As additional details become available, they will be posted on the AOG website (www.aog-usafa.org).

Directors Nominating Committee

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

This year’s 44

Harmon

Memorial Lecture was presented by Dr. Joe Guilmar-

tin, ’62

he spoke on

The Impact of Aircraft

Design on Strategy, 19331945. As the Academy’s first graduate to present this prestigious lecture, Dr. Guilmartin engaged an audience of some 600 cadets,

Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Larry D. Fortner, ’59, Chair 19 Woodbridge Dr. Colorado Srings, CO 80906

faculty, and distin-

guished visitors with the fruits of his recent research as the Charles A.

Home: (719) 579-8620

Lindbergh Professor of Aerospace

History at the Smithsonian Institute’s National Air &

Work: (719) 574-0050

Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Alan V. Rogers, ’64

Memorial Lecture

Col. (Ret.) James A. Shaw, Jr., ’67

4600 North 32nd Road

3116 Academy Dr.

Arlington, VA 22207

USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475

Home: (703) 237-7375

Home: (719) 488-2185

Work: (703) 227-6719

Work: (719) 472-0300

Mr. Bill Boisture, Jr., ’67

Mrs. Jody A. Merritt, ’89

6465 Brookshire Dr.

5751 Condor Court

Dallas, TX 75230

San Jose, CA 95118

Home: (214) 691-5606

Home: (408) 269-6400

Work: (912) 965-3200

Work: (408) 744-2104

Space Museum. The multi-media lecture was a huge success, as Dr. Guilmartin expounded on the pivotal and critical role of specific aviation technologies in World War II, and the way in which those technological designs translated into the broader strategies of both the Axis and the Allies. The AOG provides financial support for this important lecture series. Dr. Guilmartin is a full professor on faculty at the Ohio State University, as he and his wife Lore currently reside in Columbus, Ohio.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

Estate Planning

Congress Revamps Retirement Tax By Eric Holt, Class of ’91

The Congress and President Bush gave Americans a tremendous incentive to take care of their own retirement planning by increasing the maximum limits for individuals contributing to different retirement vehicles. These changes affect graduates on and off active duty. Two of the most well-known retirement vehicles are the Individual Retirement Account (IRA) and the 401(k). While there are many types of IRAs, the two I will highlight are: the Traditional and the Roth IRA. In a Traditional

IRA, the individual’s contributions are tax deductible and the account grows completely tax deferred until funds are withdrawn from the account after the age of 59 Vi

The withdrawals are taxed as income at that point-this is good because

marginal tax rates are probably lower in our retirement years and the account has grown without being reduced by taxes. In a Roth IRA, contributions are not tax-deductible but the earnings grow tax-free. One of the advantages of the Roth is paying the taxes now (on a smaller amount of money) and never having to pay them again. However, the tax rate you are paying now may be higher than the one at retirement (if this is the case, it means you’re actually paying more taxes via the Roth IRA.) Another advantage is the greater flexibility of the Roth to use the account assets for things like education, first home purchases, and medical expenses. The Roth and Traditional IRA have income limits for participation and contributions have been limited to $2,000 per year since 1981 (in current year

IRA

Under Age 50 2002

$11,000

dollars that’s equivalent to around $1,000).

$3,000

The 401(k), which is creatively named after the section of the

2003

$12,000

$3,000

Internal Revenue Service code authorizing its existence, is a valuable

2004

$13,000

$3,000

tool for retirement planning. Tax treatment of 401(k)’s is much the

2005

$14,000

$4,000

same as

the Traditional IRA as contributions are tax deductible and

2006

$15,000

$4,000

then taxed when withdrawn after age 59 Vi. While not mandatory,

2007

$15,500

$4,000

many employers match some (or all) of the employee’s 401 (k) contri-

2008

$16,000

$5,000

bution and the employer contributions are taxed in the same manner

2009

$16,500

$5,000

2010

$17,000

$5,000

the employees. In 2001, the amount contributed to 401(k)’s was

limited to 15% of taxable earnings, or $10,500, whichever is lower. The table includes the revised annual contribution limits which

Age 50 and Over

began in 2002. Please note the “catch-up” provisions established by Congress for those 50 and over.

Year

401(k)

IRA

2002

$12,000

$3,500

ning in 2002. Please note the “catch-up” provisions established by

2003

$14,000

$3,500

Congress for those 50 and over.

2004

$16,000

$3,500

On another important note, as of January 1, 2002, active duty

2005

$18,000

$4,500

military members are able to contribute to the Thrift Savings Plan

2006

$20,000

$5,000

(TSP). From a tax perspective, the TSP is treated just like a 401 (k) or

2007

$21,000

$5,000

Traditional IRA

2008

$21,500

$6,000

tax

The tables include the revised annual contribution limits begin-

—

contributions are tax deductible and earnings grow

deferred until withdrawn. Also, just like a 401(k), members will

2009

$22,000

$6,000

have different options for how to invest their contributions. As of the

2010

$23,000

$6,000

writing of this article, military members will be able to contribute up to seven percent of their base pay to this fund. The government

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

PERSPECTIVE

may match the member contributions for some critical career fields. For more information, contact your local

finance office or visit www.tsp.gov. I urge grads to strongly consider maximizing their TSP contributions where their individual financial situations allow. If your cash flow is an issue and you have to decide between the TSP and an IRA contribution, you may want to consider funding the IRA first as you have more investment options

using that vehicle (the TSP must be invested in one of the five plan options) and you have more flexibility to use the money for other things (especially with the Roth IRA.) You would probably want to consider funding the TSP first if you are in a career field that the government matches some or all of your contribution. If that’s the case, you should at least contribute up until the government stops matching (the same reasoning holds true for the 401(k) as

well). For example, if the government or your employer matches the first 5% of your contribution, you should

consider putting at LEAST the 5% into your TSP/401(k). If you made $50,000 in a year, you could contribute

$2,500 and then your employer would also contribute $2,500 so the total contribution is $5,000-in essence you have doubled your investment in the first day (and there aren’t many other, legal ways to accomplish that!) One last, very important, item relates to those who participate in their company’s 401(k). It is a very risky

proposition to buy your own company’s stock in your 401 (k). By working for a company, you have a tremendous investment in the future of that firm; to then invest in your company’s stock “puts all your eggs in that basket.” Unfortunately, recent market events have illustrated this to many employee/investors. Imagine working

for Enron, American Airlines, or United and having the bulk of your 401 (k) invested in the company stock. Not

only did many people lose their source of current income, they lost a tremendous piece of their future income -

their 401(k). I urge grads to consider diversifying their investments outside of their employer’s stock and seek

investments with low correlation to the industry in which they currently work.

Why does this all matter? Pension Isn’t

You won’t be able to live solely on your military retirement. A retired 0-5 at 20 years would receive

Enough

just under $28,000 a year in current dollars. This is close to 1st LT pay-I can only speak for myself but I certainly don’t remember having a great deal of discretionary income in those days and my responsibilities (family and otherwise) have grown considerably.

On Your Own

Social Security may not be around in its current form for many of us. For those who don’t retire from active duty, since many corporate defined benefit (pension) plans have gone the way of the Betamax, your

only retirement funding vehicle may be the nest egg you create. Time is Money

The earlier you start, the better. The grad who puts $2,000 per year away in an IRA and starts right after

graduation would have accumulated approximately $1.2 million (assuming a 10% return, reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains and ignoring any taxes and fees) in their account by age 65. If that same grad waits until they are 30 years old, they have approximately $542,000 (same assumptions as above). This eight-year delay costs the grad $658,000! The new limits would cause the disparity to be even greater.

Catch-Up

It’s never too late. The catch-up provisions allow investors to put a considerable amount of tax-favored

While You Can

money away from age 52 to age 62. My maxing out the IRA and 401 (k) contributions over this ten-year period,

the grad has over $365,000 (same assumptions as above) in their retirement account.

COMING NEXT TIME: What if our kids don’t go to USAFA.

.how to save for college.

For more information, please contact eholt@verivest.com or your tax advisor. antee and readers should contact their

financial

or tax

The illustrations above are not a guar-

advisor before taking any investment actions.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

SCORECARD

what REALLY

MATTERS BY LYNN ZINSER,

Colorado Springs Gazette

Falcons celebrate their final game of the season by beating Utah in the final moments.

Air Forces 6-6 football season will eventually get filed among coach Fisher DeBerry’s worst. It has already spawned discontent and criticism. Fans started to stay away.

No, the Falcons did not add to their list of bowl appearances. They didn’t beat any top teams.

They didn’t scare any top teams. They didn’t stop anybody outside of Tennessee Tech. They were one botched Utah play from becoming only DeBerry’s third team with a losing season. But just for a minute, consider this idea: So what?

If there’s anyplace where perspective should be the price of admission to a game, Air Force is it. And if anything should have sharpened that perspective, Sept. 11 was it. The Falcons aren’t professionals. They aren’t even pro football players-in-training like at most

schools. They aren’t playing for fame or to attract top

agents or to boost themselves in the draft. The exceptions to this rule are few.

No, they are cadets. They play football because it’s what

they love. They play because they can, for a few years anyway, before real life beckons. Before the Air Force beckons. Today that means before a war beckons. That Air Force football coaches, including DeBerry for the past 18 years, have turned this into a reason to win football games, isn’t the point. Sure, it’s fun. Players, coaches and fans are very proud of it, but it’s a bonus. The real job here is train-

ing people, preparing men. DeBerry made this painfully clear by suspending 12 players for the Utah game after they had missed curfew while in Flawaii. Without perspective, this could seem kind of quaint, like a

“Leave it to Beaver” episode, nothing with real application in today’s world. Many college football

teams

rush to make players’ bail so they can play in the next game. Discipline gets lost in the rush

for bowl bids, TV appearances and money. But that’s not what college football should be about. And at Air Force, if DeBerry isn’t teach-

ing discipline and honor, then he should be fired. Because here, that is the point.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

SCORECARD

Those 12 players had to stand on the sideline and watch their team win without them because they fell short of the team’s rules. Their military commanders will be just as

unforgiving as DeBerry. Probably more so. The rules are harsh here because they have to be, because one day it may mean the difference between living and dying. DeBerry took heat for the suspensions. His team repaid him by winning its last game and avoiding that dreaded losing season. That should tell you a lot about the Falcons right there. It should make everyone appreciate the whole operation a little bit more. Winning has become routine for Air Force. They play in an almost major conference. They have gone to a bowl game seven of the past 11 years. They have pounded Army and Navy. Anyone who wishes for DeBerry’s retirement should be required to study the recent histories of Army and Navy. Those academies are going through coaches like Denny’s goes through cooks. They’d be firing cannons over a 6-6 season. The fact is, the academies have a lot more in common with Division III schools than Division I schools. Someday, Army and Navy may consider dropping down. But they like the exposure and the idea that they can compete with the best even if

they can’t recruit with the best or fudge rules with the best. And because Air Force wins, it proves it can be done. But it isn’t, and never has been, the point.

DeBerry teaches, instructs, lectures, nurtures, cajoles, yells, uplifts, leads, badgers, mixes metaphors and just plain puts his stamp on his players. They leave for a real, scary

world knowing someone cared about them enough to kick them in the right direction. That alone gives him a winning record.

FALCON WOMEN SWEEP ARMY AND NAVY Air Force women’s

basketball team kicked off the New Year by sweeping service

academy rivals Army and Navy in early January. Twelve players scored as the Falcons routed Army 77-52. It was the team’s largest margin of victory and highest scoring output of the season. Latoya Howell led the Falcons in scoring with 12 points and Ali Tomlinson added 10. Three

days later the Falcons broke the above records by swamping the middies from Annapolis 85-69. Three

players notched double figures, led by Amoy Jackson who had 16 points, Rozalyn Russ added 15, and Tomlinson fired for 11.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

7T7

SCORECARD

FALCONS LOOK FOR TWENTY WIN SEASON has proven that Air Force baseball is driven

by offense. The Falcons have led the nation in batting more times than any other team in

NCAA history.

With a home field that sits at 7,000 feet

above sea level, offense seems to be the main course on

the menu.

Right? Wrong! With one of the best starting rotations in the Mountain West Conference, the Falcons will

rely on their pitching staff and hope the offense rebounds after a lackluster year. The Falcon offense slumped, particularly

late, last season to hit just .289 and averaged less than six runs per game. Meanwhile, the pitching

staff shattered the school record for strikeouts in a season and kept the Falcons in nearly every

game.

Take away two of the top hitters from last year’s struggling offense and the Falcons will need to manufacture runs and play better

defense to be successful in 2002. “Our team defense should improve and we will have more speed in the outfield,” head coach

Reed Peters said. “We have more experience in the

infield and our pitching staff should again be our

strength. With more speed, we will be more aggressive on the base paths and play the short game.” The Falcons are coming off of a 23-33 season a

in 2001 and broke the school record with 19 Division I victories. The Falcons have

tall task in front of them with a difficult schedule in 2002. Along with a 30-game MWC

schedule, the Falcons’ non-conference schedule includes New Mexico State, Kansas State, Arkansas, Southwest Missouri State and Texas-Arlington. Senior pitchers Matt Kaercher and Erik Fisher, who both rank in the top seven in career

strikeouts at the Academy, will lead the Falcons on the mound. Air Force returns a starter at every position in the infield. Catcher Dan Petro returns after ranking among the conference’s

top defensive backstops last year. Junior Brian LaBasco, also a wide receiver on the Falcon

football team, was one of the team’s top offensive players last season as he hit .325 and had 13 doubles and 12 stolen bases With a large senior class and strong pitching, Peters can become just the third coach in 45 years of Falcon baseball, and the first since the early 1990s, to post three

straight 20-win seasons. CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

SCORECARD

HOME ICE NO REFUGE FOR ARMY

When Air Force and Army ”“‘17 thing is for certain: an intense, hard-working battle to the end with neither team giving up until the final horn sounds. In a pair of very physical and emotional games, the Falcons swept the Black Knights on

their home ice in West Point. Air Force has won six straight games at West Point and has not lost

there since 1995. Falcon head coach Frank Serratore

improved his record to 9-1-1 against the

Black Knights. The fifth-year coach has never lost at West Point.

Since Navy does not have a team,

the meeting is the equivalent of the Stanley Cup for both teams. In the first game, Air Force scored four unan-

swered goals for a come-from-behind 4-2 victory over

Army. Air Force pulled a Jekyll and Hyde act

between periods and dominated play for the final 40 minutes. They out-shot Army, 26-15, in the

final two periods. The second game was even more exciting as

Brian Reaney scored the game-winning

goal with 56 seconds remaining in the third period to lift Air Force to a 5-4 win over Army Saturday. Air Force scored three goals in the first period and built a four-goal lead midway through the second period. But a gritty Army club came back to tie the game late in the third period. A combined 29 penalties in the game created a very disjointed contest between the two teams. Air Force was called for 12 penalties and had 13 power plays while Army was called for 17 penalties and had seven power plays. “It was a very fragmented game because of the penalties,” Serratore said. “The game was choppy and there was no flow to it. I don’t look at it like we gave up a four-goal lead; we just found a way to win. When you play Army, just win. It’s that simple.” Air Force traveled to Storrs, Conn. Dec 29th and 30th and won the UConn Husky Tournament. At press time, the Falcons’ record was 10-15-1.

SCHLEGEL NAMED TO FRESHMAN ALL-AMERICAN TEAM

reshman ILB Anthony Schlegel was named to the third-team

freshman All-American team by The Sporting News. Schlegel

started the last six games for Air Force this season and recorded 48 total tackles, including four for a loss. The Dallas, Texas, native was named Mountain West Conference player of the week in the team’s final game against Utah. He recorded 11 total tackles. None were

bigger than the one he made on the game’s final play pictured here when he tackled Utah’s Lance Rice at the two yard line to secure a 38-37 win for the Falcons.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

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FOOTBALL PROVIDES LESSONS OF LIFE FOR '83 GRAD By Tech. Sgt. Andrew Gates 5th Combat Communications Group Public Affairs

objective is like playing football. You have situation, develop a plan and then look downfield to see a number of 300-pound challenges between you and your goal.

Accomplishing

to assess the

So it comes as little surprise when Col. Dave Schreck

3th Combat Communications

Group commander at Robins AFB, sprinkles his conversations with football metaphors. He spent four years on the front line of the friendly field of battle at the Air Force Academy, graduating in 1983 The lithe Iowa native seems a far cry from a 270-pound offensive guard, but visitors to his

office can see his face in a photo on his wall, attacking a running back in spite of

losing his helmet during an academy football game. His time at the academy gave him the fundamentals he needed to build a successful career, Schreck said. “With the academics, military studies and athletic activities, the academy places you in a heavily over-tasked environment,” he said. “The regimen forces you to prioritize on a

daily basis, and in the process, gain some very practical experience in time management.” His four years of football and his subsequent year as an assistant coach taught him even more, Schreck said. “The lessons you learn in sports are tremendous,” he said. “I learned so

much about teamwork and how to interact with your teammates and your competition.” As an offensive guard and an All-America recipient his senior year, Schreck found

that he was the focus of National Football League scrutiny. With at least 15 teams

interested, the scouts were saying he could expect a six-figure salary-very tempting

compared to a second lieutenant’s paycheck. Schreck did not get the option, though, as

he was in a critical career field, and the Air Force would not allow him to opt out

of his commitment. “I had no regrets. I pretty much made that decision when I went to the academy,” he said. “I wanted the opportunity to become an officer and serve, but I would have wel-

corned the opportunity to continue to play football as well. Since the Air Force needed

engineers, I didn’t expect to be released from my commitment, and I knew that going in.” The military career spawned from that decision has brought a share of victories and conflicts as great, but perhaps more long lasting, than his college games against future NFL stars such as Eric Dickerson, Dan Marino, Steve Young and Roger Craig. Schreck said that one of his most interesting assignments was his time at the White House Communications Agency. “Never in my imagination growing up in Iowa did I ever think I’d someday be able to walk through the White House-at least without Secret Service agents throwing me on the ground,” he said. “WHCA was a great experience-one I never would have experienced outside the Air Force.” Schreck’s goals and priorities have taken him through 18 years of a military career so

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

SCORECARD far. Occasionally, he wonders if he might have become a professional athlete. “Everybody

speculates on what could have been if they had made different choices,” he said. “However, every time I think ‘what if,’ I remember that I’ve had a great time in the Air Force. I’ve truly enjoyed the jobs I’ve held and the great people I’ve met. When I look back, I’m very

satisfied with where I’ve been and the blessings I’ve received. But I try not to look back too often-the future is in front of us all.” (Courtesy ofAir Combat Command News Service)

AIR FORCE CROSS COUNTRY SEASON IN REVIEW I

rTACC

^ ^

C^ 1 1

Ooo V^vJ U-

teams concluded a very successful 2001 season. The climax came at the

NCAA Division I Cross Country Championships at Furman University in South Caro-

lina. The Falcon men earned the at-large bid to the championships after finishing fifth in the Mountain Region championships last November. For the first time since moving into Division I in 1996, C3C Brandess Pardue represented the Academy’s women’s program at nationals. Pardue finished 23 rd in the Mountain Region and earned all-region honors. In the Mountain West Conference, both the men and women’s teams placed in the

top three. The men’s team placed second, while the women’s team placed third, beating Utah, New Mexico, Wyoming, San Diego State and UNLV. As predicted, the men

and women of Brigham Young swept the conference titles. All-conference honors went to David

Romero, Ben Payne, Chris Acs and Brian Carpenter. Romero and Payne both

all-region. Finishing in the top three is not new to head coach Mark Stanforth. Since 1992, the Academy has had 10 of its men’s teams place in the top three of the conference under Stanforth’s leadership. Two of those years (1994 and 1996) the Falcons were Western Athletic Conference champions. Since entering the

went on to earn

MWC, the Falcons have finished second in 1999 and 2001, third in 2000. The Academy’s women’s cross country team proved it could be competitive in the MWC conference too. Since 1999, the women’s program has placed

three times in the conference’s top three. In 2001, the women finished third in the conference, seventh in the Mountain Region and sent one woman to

the NCAAs. sThe Falcons have sent the message that Air Force can and will

be competitive in Division I.

WOMEN'S GYMNASTICS PREPARE 1

Courtney Hamrick (team captain) and

^Bethany Stott and C2C Kimberly

are

all

entering their final year of eligibility in NCAA gymnastics and will provide strong leadership and use their experience as

all-arounders to hopefully lead the AFA women’s gymnas-

tics team to another team qualification at the NCAA North

Central Region Championships and repeat as USA Gymnasties Collegiate team champions.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

SCORECARD

GRADS TOP ZOOM1ES 42-7 IN ALUMNI GAME

alumnimgby The cjnnn1 11 LLdl lit dll and celebra-

game tion was held homecoming weekend, 12-13 Octo-

her. Festivities kicked off with a Friday night social at a local pub, the Erin Inn. Food, drink, songs, and stories were shared amongst the cadets and grads.

Since Saturday’s game was held after the homecom-

ing football game, a large crowd of cadets, grads and families cheered on the blue and white clad warriors. Although he forgot his glasses, Sean Edris, ’71, officiated the contest, most likely to help compen-

grads’ lack of fitness. However, unlike previous years the alumni were able to put together a very solid side with more than half the squad having played select side rugby for either the Combined Services or sate for the

All-Air Force teams. From the class of’81, Dr. Sean Murphy, Mark Ploederer, and FredTichanuk all scored. Additional alumni tries from Farris El Nasser, ’91, Steve Novak, ’91, Jason Campbell, ’91, Doug Nickolai,

’89, and Doc Holliday, ’88, allowed the grads to roll to a 42-7 victory over a mixed side of Zoomie underclassmen. After the contest, the celebration continued with food, drink, and stories at Hap’s Place. The alumni presented several pieces of memorabilia to the current Zoomie captains. A signed team ball from,

’86, trophies, and pictures from a proud Zoomie past will be displayed at Hap’s. The evening concluded with all joining in song and verse as the grads shared few of the finer rugby tunes with current players. Plan on an

liday

alumni rugby game each fall during homecoming weekend. For more information, contact Ken Hoi-

at:

docncindy@aol.com.

COLLEGE FOOTBALL HONORS SPIRIT OF SERVICE ACADEMIES

m C

where winning and grooming players

for possible pro careers aren’t the top

priorities were honored during the 2001 College Football Awards show. The Air Force Academy, U.S. Naval Acacdemy and U.S. Military Academy were named recipients of the 2001 Disney’s Wide World of Sports Spirit Award. The award, which annually recognizes the dedication and accomplishments of college football’s most inspirational student-athlete, was presented Dec. 6 during the 11th annual awards show at the Walt Disney World Resort in Lake Buena Vista, Fla.

Normally presented to a single college football player (or team), this year’s Disney’s Wide World of Sports Spirit Award recognizes the football players and all the other individuals who compete in intercollegiate athletics at the three service academies. Student-

athletes at colleges and universities across the country face challeng-

ing academic and athletic requirements. “With the tragic events of September 11th, the Disney Spirit Award takes on new meaning,” said ESPN’s Chris Fowler, host of the awards program and who visited the Academy earlier this season. “The cadets and midshipmen at Air Force, Army and Navy share an even greater responsibility because they are soldiers who are required to serve a military commitment of five years or more following their collegiate careers.” A handful of seniors on these service academy athletic teams will be called into active duty as early as January 2002. “The cadets and midshipmen at Army, Navy, Air Force and other U.S. service academies represent our nation’s very best,” said Williams, vice president of Disney Sports Attractions, who played 14 seasons in the National Football League for the Cincinnati Bengals. “The enthusiasm and dedication they commit to academics and to their sports in college are only surpassed by the bravery and courage they will one day exhibit on the real battlefields as they defend our nation and others around the world. With everything the country has faced since the tragic events of Sept. 11, no one is more deserving of the Disney’s Wide World of Sports Spirit Award than those who wear the uniforms at the Army, Navy and Air Force, and who will fight for the freedoms of all Americans.” A trio of senior football players-Air Force left tackle Ben Miller, Army quarterback Chad Jenkins, and Navy quarterback Ed Malinowski, were chosen by their coaching staffs to accept the award on behalf of the three service academies. Miller is a Management major who completed the cadet leadership program last summer. His grandfather was a B-17 Bomber pilot in World War II and his brother is a police officer in Cleveland, so the concept of service is jjj nothing new to him.

CHECKPOINTS, WINTER 2002

gram). In particular, John incorporated his professional and scholarly passion and intelligence into his teaching. And he continued to write, editing online “stuff,” as he put it, for intelligence and former intelligence officers. He co-edited the biannual “Intelligencer,” also for the intelligence community, and continued to deliver papers on intelligence at the annual International Studies Association conventions.

John’s

scholarship, course outlines and research collections in intelligence have made a significant contribution to the study of intelligence around the country. Moreover, the essential role of intelligence in the antiterrorist campaign has added even greater relevance to his work. In retirement John met and married Lorna Aldrich, an economist in

the Department of Agriculture and artist, dancer and boon companion. In John and Lorna’s 14 years of marriage they had the added pleasure of

ready association in Washington with John’s beloved son, Phen. (Long ago a friend inquired, hearing John’s proud announcement of a son, if the name was Stephen or Steven. “Phen,” John replied, and a nickname was coined.)

John was awarded two Defense Superior Service medals, a Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals and an Air

John D. Macartney, ’60 When John Macartney was named to the highly select position of

Commandant of the Defense Intelligence College (now Joint Military Intelligence College) in 1984, with responsibilities similar to a civilian college president, he already had an accomplished operational and professorial career. He had earlier flown F-lOOs and served at many of the bases in the world where F-100 units were stationed (Cannon, 524th

TFS, with deployments to Takhli, Misawa and Kunsan; Wheelus, 7272 187 combat missions), and had taught poFTW; Bien Hoa, 3d TFW —

litical science at the Academy for 10 years.

He also was awarded a Distinguished Flying Cross and 18 Air Medals. John loved flying and teaching, interacting with professional colleagues and with students, whether 18-year-olds or mature officers, and his family. His most important legacy lies in the lives of these friends

Force Commendation medal.

and students.

John died of the effects of prostate cancer, which he had battled for three years. His passing leaves a void in many lives, only partially com-

pensated by the recollections of his warm friendship. (Curtis Cook, ’59)

Graduating with the Class of 1960 (CS-3 at first; CS-12 at graduation), first in his basic John went to pilot training (Moore AB, Reese AFB class) and F-100 training (Luke AFB, Nellis AFB), and spent the years —

up through his Vietnam tour in flying duties. Joining the Air Force and flying were John’s ambition and he fulfilled them by attending the Academy. Then Academy faculty duties opened a new avenue for personal and professional development by identifying his intellectual leanings. He always said that the greatest thing about the Air Force was that he

could first fly and then teach without changing employers.

John met and married the former Anne Fields during pilot training. Their son Stephen was born in 1962. The marriage later ended in divorce.

John came back to the Academy’s Political Science Department in 1970 and then returned to UCLA for PhD studies (1972-74), writing a dissertation of striking originality. Congressman and Senators, he wrote, were not to be seen solely as individual actors with an electoral mandate

and personal preferences, but as heads of organizations, subject to all

of the organizational advantages and distortions which were understood to be part of bureaucratic leadership. APSA panel after APSA panel

heard citations of his work.

Edward A. Zompa, ’61 On the morning of Nov. 27 th 2001, our classmate and friend Ed Zompa ,

John brought welcome intellectual and operational leadership to the

made his final flight, slipped the surly bonds of earth and touched the

Academy, and his tenure appointment in political science would have enabled him to remain indefinitely. But he soon enough was promoted to 0-6 and moved on to CINCPAC and the intelligence field. He moved from there to the Defense Intelligence College. He concluded his military career with faculty duty at the National War College, first in the Defense Intelligence Agency slot (which he invented) and then as a department head. John applied and enhanced his scholarly and experiential credentials in retirement, gaining appointments at American University (professor, offering seminars in foreign and defense policy and intelligence) and Syracuse University (directing their semester in Washington pro

face of God. The cause of death was a result of massive complications following heart valve surgery. In the words of Gayle, his wife of 40 years, “It was one of the few battles he lost, but only after a spectacular fight.” Following a morning service in the Catholic Cadet Chapel he was buried at the Air Force Academy on Friday, Nov. 30, 2001 with full military honors. The memorial and funeral were well attended by family and classmates who joined to bid Ed a final goodbye. It was a very moving ceremony. As the ceremony ended at the gravesite, classmates spontaneously sang “A Toast to the Host.” There were a lot of teary-eyed men with strained voices saying goodbye to our buddy Ed. Ed Zompa was born in Cranston, R. I. and attended Rhode Island 81

University prior to getting an appointment to the United States Air Force Academy in 1957. He graduated in 1961 with a Bachelor of Science degree in engineering, navigator wings, and a commission as a second lieutenant in the United States Air Force. As the 1961 Polaris Yearbook points out “Ed rose above the disadvantages of maturity and previous college to become a true leader”.

At the Air Force Academy he excelled in de-

bate, forensics, and music. But among his many Academy accomplishments one must include the discovery of his life’s partner with whom he

shared 40 years of married life and formed a family that will carry out his name and honor his memory. Following graduation he attended pilot training at Reese Air Force Base and after receiving his pilot wings alternated between operational flying and staff duties. He also found time to pick up an MA in counseling from Ball State University. During the Vietnam War, Ed volunteered and served in the hazardous duty of a Forward

Air Controller. He finished his Air Force career as Base Commander at

MacDill AFB, Fla. and retired as a Colonel and a Command Pilot in 1985.

Among his medals, decorations and awards we find the Distinguished Flying Cross, three Meritorious Service Medals, nine Air Medals, and two Air Force Commendation Medals.

After his 24 years of active duty, he went to work for The Boeing Airplane Company for 10 years as a Program Administrator. His civilian employment brought him to Madison, Ala. where he fully immersed

himself in civic activities such as the Madison Chamber of Commerce

Advisory Board, the Madison Family of the Year Board, the Huntsville Theater, and the Madison City Schools Reading Program. He also found time to continue his extensive flying activities in his beloved V-Tailed Bonanza. Most recently he formed part of the first Board of Education for the city of Madison. His work on the Board of Education is enough to earn him a special place in the hearts of our community, but added to a long and distinguished time of service to the nation, Ed will not be easily forgotten. He is survived by his wife, Gayle; his mother, Josephine Zompa; his son Ted and his wife, Karen; his daughter Kristin and her husband, Craig; his granddaughter Emma, and his

I was hopelessly bogged down in my inability to master engineering

drawing, it was Rick who had the time and patience to help me pass the course. Rick was the cadet squadron commander in the second half of our senior year and those leadership qualities that were evident early on remained with him and affected all those around him throughout his life. Many vacation trips to Utah to visit his supportive and caring family showed that, when that time arrived in his life, he himself would be a superb family man and that of course is exactly what happened! After graduation, when we wound up in St. Charles, Mo. constructing a recreation room for Rick’s uncle Orville, it was his unfailing good humor, perseverance and ability to always look on the bright side of things that turned what might have been an otherwise disorganized gaggle into an interesting and worthwhile experience. During pilot training, he was always the calm and steady influence on a rather wild group. Those same qualities were present in all the things that he did throughout his personal family life, his career in the Air Force, and his time in —

the business world.

Although our personal paths separated somewhat after pilot training, we remained in contact through the time that it takes to raise a family, complete a career, and start a second career. As long as this time might appear, it was cut tragically short through Rick’s untimely passing. We shall all remember the infectious smile and hearty laugh that was Rick’s trademark. We shall all remember the buoyant optimism and cheerful outlook that he had for every task. We shall all remember the

sincerity and true affection that he brought to every relationship. When you were around Rick, it was easy to be cheerful, optimistic and upbeat. For all these qualities and more, he will be remembered with a

great amount of love and affection by his family and friends. (Ken Fleming, Class of1962)

brother Bob.

Gayle wants to convey to all her sincere thanks for your prayers and support. It helped the family cope with the pain and tragedy of the past few months. (Hector Andres Negroni, Class of 1961)

Frederick P. Tedesco, ’64

Frederick Tedesco, 59, of Huntsville, Ala. died Thursday Oct. 25,2001. He was the husband of Lynda Tedesco.

He was born in Torrington, Conn. Oct. 22, 1942, the son of the late

Nicholas and Ellen (Rosati) Tedesco.

Major Tedesco, a 1960 graduate

of Torrington High School, received his bachelor’s degree in aeronautical engineering and commission in 1964 upon graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy, Colorado. He also earned a master’s degree in

Frederick E. Gerken, Jr., ’62

nuclear engineering in 1975 from the Air Force Institute of Technology

It was with surprise, sadness, and regret that I learned, from his wife

Mary, of the passing of Fred “Rick” Gerken. Although I certainly cannot express with any adequacy the sense of loss that must be felt by his immediate family, I can attempt to relate those qualities about Rick, especially in the early years, that will inevitably describe the same man who was much loved by his family and his friends throughout his whole life. Rick was a good friend in the true sense of the word as a classmate, squadron mate, roommate, and pilot training mate that quality was abundantly evident in everything he did. If support, assistance, and/ or advice were needed, he provided it in cheerful good measure. When —

Wright-Patterson AFB. He was a veteran of the Vietnam War, serving His decorations included The Distinguished Flying Cross, The Meritorious Service Medal, The Air Force Commendation and ten Air Medals. In 1976, Major Tedesco’s team was selected to receive the Robert J. Collier Trophy for successfully producing and demonstrating the B-l Strategic Bomber. Previous winners include such aviation pioneers as Glen Curtiss, Orville Wright, Glenn Martin, Howard Hughes, and General H. H. Arnold; and such aircraft as the DC-2, B-52, Boeing 747 and F-16. After retiring from the Air Force in 1986, he joined Teledyne Brown Engineering in Huntsville, Ala. to work on systems to support the U.S. at

20 years in the military.

Army’s Strategic Defense Command. In 1989, he manned the survivability program for the development of a new main battle tank to replace the aging M-l Abraham. The program encompassed design to ensure adequate survivability and operability against nuclear, chemical and biological weapons. In 1994, he became project manager of the rapid response system, which is a mobile system used for processing and neutralization of

ers

in Europe.

He then helped bring the E-3 AWACS into existence,

and was one of the few non-fighter pilots working in Fighter Requirements. In multiple assignments in the personnel business and Legis-

lative Liaison, he ensured that the Air Force had the right people to

get the job done and that Congress understood the importance of what needed to be done and provided the funding. The two jobs that Paul cherished the most were as the Tech Center

chemical agents that were used to train soldiers, sailors and airmen to

Commander at Keesler AFB and as the Superintendent of the Air Force

recognize hazardous chemicals, to detect them, and to decontaminate equipment that was exposed to these chemicals. Survivors include his wife, Lynda Tedesco; two daughters, Lisa Moore and Becky Tedesco; a son, Paul Tedesco, all of Huntsville; a sister, Eileen Tedesco of Sharon, Conn.; a brother, Edward Tedesco of Torrington, Conn.; and two grandchildren. The funeral was held October 29 at Valley Fellowship Church in Huntsville, Ala. followed by burial in the Maple Hill Cemetery in Huntsville. Memorial contributions may be made to the Valley Fellowship Church Building Fund. (Ed Tedesco)

Academy. These jobs enabled him to lead and mold the young men and women, both officer and enlisted, who are the future of our Air

Particularly in these assignments, Paul and Carol were everywhere. They personally touched and cared about every person in these Force.

programs and were loved for their dedication. Paul had an innate special quality about him that is hard to de-

scribe. Without a doubt he was a natural leader

—

people gravi-

tated to him. But beyond that there was a kind of aura, part taciturn, part devil-may-care. When he smiled, his eyes twinkled in a way that literally lit up a room and when he laughed, you didn’t hear it so much as you felt it. When he scowled, you wanted to run

for cover. He had no time for the alibi or the quibble. His personal code of conduct was simple: Do the right thing and tell it like it is.

Above all, Paul demanded the best of himself. It was this dogged refusal to let himself be less than he could be that made Paul Stein

something special.

It was this core character trait that took him

from a slow footed defensive back to a team captain and record

setting quarterback, from an average special services lieutenant to a dynamic lieutenant general, and from our squadron mate and buddy to our hero. In a way, when Paul drew the “short straw”, we and many of his friends drew a long one. The intervening months from the time of

his diagnosis until his death gave us a chance to say goodbye. We

got to visit, share stories, laughs, and a few beers and tears. We got to hug and unabashedly tell Paul that we loved him. We knew where

the flight was going and we were privileged to ride the final leg with him. Paul will be remembered as a loving husband; proud, attentive father and grandfather; man of high integrity and vision; a superb Air

Paul E. Stein, ’66 Our Friend, Paul Stein, died in his sleep Jan. 10,2002, after courageously fighting the horrible disease, ALS, for over a year. He quietly passed away sitting in his easy chair, while his son James held his hand. He leaves his loving wife, Carol; three wonderful children; daughter Christine and her husband, George; son John and his wife, Kiersten; and son James; and two beautiful grandchildren, Georgia Mae and Carl. If ever there was a natural athlete, it was Steiner. He grew up in Lan-

sing, Mich, and was a high school football star.

Force officer and leader; and a steadfast friend. We will miss him.

God speed, Steiner. (Vic Andrews ’66, Bill Berry ’66, Mike Heenan ’66, Bill Manning ‘66)

Former Superintendent’s Wife,

He was recruited by

Jim Bowman (wasn’t everybody) to play football at USAFA.

Mrs. Warren, Dies at 83

His ac-

complishments and leadership on the football field are well known. He threw four touchdown passes against the University of Arizona, an

Academy single-game record that still stands, and, in 1965, he led Air Force to a 14-3 win over Army at Soldier Field in Chicago, the Falcons first football victory over another Service Academy. What many may not know is that he was also an excellent baseball and basketball player, a boxer, and a fair golfer. It was during our First Class year when our AOC, Happy Jack Runyan, selected Paul to be our Spring Semester Third Squadron Commander that we all learned what a great leader Paul was off the field.

After graduation, Paul was not an aviator, nor did he fix planes, or fight wars, but his contributions over a 31-year career made those things pos-

sible for the Air Force he loved. He was not an operator in the strictest

Mrs. Robert H. (Daisy Wall) Warren, 83, a native of Tampa, Fla., died Jan. 25, 2002 suddenly and peacefully at home in Charleston, W.V She was the wife of Lt. Gen.

(USAF, Ret) Robert Hamilton Warren, the fourth

superintendent of the U.S. Air Force Academy (July 1962-June 1965). Mrs. Warren was born in Tampa, Fla. and attended Florida State University when it was known as Florida State College for Women, where she pledged Chi Omega. She was a member of the Junior League of Tampa and had a lifelong history of volunteer work including for the Red Cross during WWII, for Meals-on-Wheels, for hospitals and for numerous Air Force organizations throughout her husband’s career. She was awarded the Air Force Award of Appreciation by Secretary of the Air Force Melvin Laird in 1971.

sense of the

She moved to Charleston, W.V. two years ago and became a member of the First Presbyterian Church and the Edgewood Country Club of

ing Spangdahlem and Bitburg Air Bases, Germany become football pow-

Charleston. Mrs. Warren is survived by her husband of 60 years, Lt. Gen. (USAF, Ret) Robert Hamilton Warren, daughter Barbara Knight

word, but his operational sense and focus were a match for anyone and better than most. His initial contributions were small, help-

For more current information about graduate

deaths, please visit the AOG web site.

www.aog-usafa.org

Warren of Charleston; son Robert Hamilton Warren, Jr. of Lake Mary,

Fla.; brother Charles Lafayette Henderson of Brooksville, Fla., and numerous

grandchildren.

Mrs. Warren was interred in the Air Force Academy Cemetery on Jan.

31, 2002. 83

Charlie and I were best friends at USAFA

stronger over the years.

...

friendship that grew

I was there when he and Sheila walked down

the aisle in 1972; he was “best man” at my wedding in 1973. His Air Force career took him all around the world, but we always kept in touch. Even though years may have passed between visits, we’d soon be jok-

ing and sharing stories as though we played golf together every day. I guess that’s what friendship is all about. We lost Charlie in November 2001 after a long and courageous battle

against cancer.

At his memorial service at the USAFA Cadet Chapel,

there were airline pilots, fellow graduates, Air Force officers and retirees, family and friends.

What a wonderful tribute to such a nice guy. Charlie must have been pleased to see us all there. The ceremony was followed by a fighter jet flyover to honor Charlie. I could almost see him in his flight suit heading for home.

Charlie graduated from USAFA with the Class of 1972. He and Sheila began their journey together in Del Rio, Texas, where Charlie attended pilot training and remained there as a T-37 instructor pilot. They next ventured to Alaska where their two sons, Scott and Brian, were born. As a foursome they traveled to new flying assignments in New Mexico,

Charles H. Harrington, ’72 “Gone But Not Forgotten” is so right. Charlie Harrington maybe gone,

Arizona, Germany, Nevada, the Philippines, and Colorado. Charlie retired as the 4 th Group AOC at the Academy in 1993, and began his civil-

but he most certainly will not be forgotten by his family, friends, class-

ian career as a pilot with Southwest Airlines.

mates, or anyone who knew him. As I look back on almost 30 years of friendship, I can’t help but smile. Charlie always made us smile, laugh,

Charlie is survived by his wife, Sheila; his sons Scott and Brian; his mother, Virginia Baer; and his brothers Bob, Rich and Doug. (Bob Culbertson, ‘71)

feel good. We’ll miss him.

C3C Patrick Hux Killed in

it-and-Run Auto Accident Guard as a rifleman in an infantry company. He remained in the unit until the fall of 1959. After a break in service, he enlisted in the South

Carolina Air National Guard (SCANG) in December 1974 as a munitions loader on the A-7D aircraft.

In 1990, he was activated and de-

in the midst of a severe snowstorm which had led to many accidents. Pat had spotted the stranded motorist and asked the driver

ployed to Saudi Arabia for Operations Desert Storm/Shield and served as the Flight Line Maintenance Expediter. He retired from the South Carolina Air National Guard in July of 1991. Patrick’s father, MSgt. Robert L. Hux, Jr. enlisted in the SCANG in June of 1980 as an Aircraft Egress Systems Mechanic. He became a full-time technician in December 1983 and became the Egress Shop Supervisor in 1985. In Dec 1990, he was also activated and deployed to Saudi Arabia for Operations Desert Storm/Shield and returned home in May of 1991. He was selected as the Aircraft Electrical and Environmental Systems Shop supervisor in July 1999. Patrick has been a part of the SCANG “family” since his birth. He has grown up around the base and the people. Everyone at the base watched him become a fine young man. As Patrick grew and began his quest to become a cadet at the Academy, there was a huge support group at the base standing behind him through the happy and difficult times. When he succeeded, there was a group pride that followed him all the way to Colorado. There is hardly anyone at McEntire ANGB that doesn’t know Patrick by name. He is as much a part of the unit as his father and grandfather before him. Patrick’s military legacy also comes from his mother’s side of the family with his grandfather, Hallard Collier. He joined the U.S. Air Force in Octo-

of the car, C2C Krystal Shamblin, to pull over and assist the motorist.

ber 1956 and served until October 1960. While in the Air Force, he served

Once they had confirmed the driver was safe and knew help was on

as an Aircraft and Missile

C3C Patrick W. Hux,’04

Patrick William Hux lived as he died: for others. Patrick was killed in a

hit-and-run accident on November 25, 2001.

Pat and four other

USAFA cadets had stopped to help a stranded motorist on Highway

83, about six miles south of Franktown. The Denver-Colorado Springs area was

the way, the cadets began crossing the road back to their car. As they

crossing the road, Pat saw a vehicle bearing down on the group. The others were carefully watching their footing on the ice-covered

were

Electrical/Electronics Technician working primarily on the F-101, the RF-101 reconnaissance aircraft, and the RB-66 bomber. He served in many states and in the South Pacific. Upon leaving the Air Force, he became an engineer for a manufacturing organization.

road. He yelled to the others to run yet he was still in the path of the

Patrick was born October 12, 1982. He was, as his mother likes to say,

fast-approaching vehicle. Although he provided the precious seconds the others needed to escape, Pat was struck by the Jeep Cherokee. Another cadet, C2C Ryan Charlton, was also struck and injured. Two of the cadets, C3C Adam Ferrone and C3C Matt Thompson, tried desperately to save his life using CPR, but it was too late. Patrick left to be with the Lord that night. Patrick’s military legacy began in June 1948 with the enlistment of his grandfather, Robert L. Hux, Sr., in the North Carolina Army National

“perfect in every way.” I doubt anyone would argue. He truly was an outstanding young man. He was one of those rare individuals who never

met a stranger and never made an enemy.

Patrick had an ever-present

smile that immediately brought a smile to the face of others. He was a fanatic about soccer and he was equally fanatic about his family. He

especially adored his seven-year-old sister, Maggie. He was truly proud to be a cadet and loved the Air Force Academy. In addition to his friendly

(Continued on next page.)

that was just John. He patient husband, a loving and involved Dad left no doubt in anyone’s mind that his wife and children meant everything to him. —

All those who were close to John will remember him in their own special way, especially his parents, brothers, wife Lynn, and two children, rd

Emily and Andrew. For those of us from 3 Squadron, we will remember him as a man who not only loved to fly, but also loved life and those around him. As we laid him to rest at Arlington National Cemetery, our strong bonds of friendship strengthened still further. We remember all the good times and John’s own words: “We’re friends for life.” On that day he became our “missing man” but he will never be absent from our hearts. (Major Summer Bartczak, close friend and fellow Cerberus warrior) At press time we had learned of the deaths of the following graduates and cadets:

Mr. Richard M. Hilbert, Class of 1959, who died on Feb. 3, 2002 of a heart attack in Monument, Colo.

John A. Buratowski, ’86

Major John Andrew Buratowski succumbed to a massive heart attack in his home on May 30, 2001. John’s sudden passing has left his family and friends in shock and in disbelief that a man so vibrant and so young could be taken away so

quickly. Although John was special to many people, his passing is particularly tough for those of us who rd were his 3 the Class of‘86 Cerberus warriors. Squadron classmates As a group, we consider ourselves especially fortunate to have spent —

Maj. (Ret) Ronald C. Tubbs, Class of 1962, who died on May 20, 2000 in Indian Springs, Nev.

Col. (Ret) Hugh Carter Whatley, Class of 1964, who died on Jan. 10, 2002 of Lou Gehrigs Disease in Fairfax, Va. Col. (Ret) John E. Vanden Dries, Class of 1975, who died on Feb. 1, 2002 in Anchorage, Alaska. Mr. Theophus D. Dismuke, Class of 1981, who died on Dec. 8,

four of the best (and worst, and John would second this) years of our lives together. The young John we all knew was kind, gentle, and care-

1999 in Harrison Township (Dayton), Ohio.

free. He liked to laugh, joke, and be goofy and never missed an oppor-

C-21 crash at Ellsworth AFB, S.D.

tunity to break out the “dip” cup.

Like so many of his 3 rd Squadron

classmates, John reveled in his nicknames “Fat John”, “Burt”, and “Trou” (short for trouser). Not to be outdone, however, he was a central figure and creator of a whole host of other caricatures for his squadron mates to include the “Maggot”, the “Sloth”, and the “Shrew”.

John was an easy guy to get close to. For his best friend Brad, John was a

diving, dining, gaming, and flying partner, but most importantly

best man and confidant. For his roommate Steve, dearly known as

Capt. Brian D. Rizzoli, Class of 1996, who died Feb. 2, 2002 in a 2nd Lt. Nicholas J. Jabara, Class of 2001, who was killed in aT-37 aircraft crash Jan. 31, 2002 at Laughlin AFB, Texas. Jabara was the

grandson of the late Col. James Jabara, the first jet-to-jet ace in the Korean War. C3C Matthew A. Knight, Class of2004, who died on Dec. 28,2001 in an auto accident in Ruskin, Fla.

Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of these graduates.

“Bung”, he was a challenge in the “neatness” department, but the Felix and Oscar nature of their relationship seemed to make their bonds ever

stronger. In contrast to his gentler side, John loved the excitement of

OBITUARY POLICY EXPLAINED

life as well. From fast drives in his red Z-28 to the ever-bizarre Scream-

We have had a number of inquiries on our policy concerning obitu-

ing Speed Chess death matches, John relished life and made every at-

aries for deceased graduates and cadets. Some graduates have noted that while we have listed a graduate’s death in the “At Press Time” sec-

tempt to live it to its fullest.

Although we all went our separate ways after graduation, we were fortunate that John continued to be present in our lives. From UPT at Vance, KC-135S at Kadena, T-37s and T-ls at Reese and Randolph, to KC-lOs at Seymour-Johnson and ACSC at Maxwell, some of us always

ended up together. No matter what day, what event, or what time in life brought us together, John was always the same that genuine, —

down to earth, “real” guy we’d always known

—

just more grownup.

Marriage and children seemed to make John bloom. A fabulous and (Cadet Patrick W. Hux: From previous page.)

tion of “Gone But Not Forgotten,” the graduate’s obituary never ap-

peared in the magazine. Our policy is to write to the next-of-kin a reasonable amount of time (usually two weeks or so) after the death, and request from that individual (wife, parent, etc.) an obituary written by a classmate, friend or family member. We also ask for copies of obituaries which might have appeared in local newspapers. If we do not have a current photograph, we ask the next-of-kin to lend one to us (the photo is returned when the magazine is published).

South Carolina ways, he shunned cynicism and complaining. He knew

If we do not receive a response to our first letter from the next-of-kin in a month, we write a follow-up letter asking for the obituary again

USAFA was a tough, but special place. I can honestly say I never heard him make a negative comment about anyone or anything.

and informing the individual that this will be our last request for the article. If we do not receive a response to our second letter, an obituary

As a testimony to the kind of person Patrick was, there were approximately 750 people in attendance at his viewing in Columbia, South Carolina. The memorial service and funeral held the next day filled the church to overflowing. They all knew what we knew: Patrick was special. He had somehow managed to touch all of our lives in a unique way. We all knew a little something about him and together they added up to a person who loved Jesus Christ, his family, and his Air Force. Patrick’s personal motto was, “Failure is not my destiny.” We who are left behind can now confirm the transformation of this statement from personal motto to historical fact. He did not fail in what is most important in life. He made others more important than himself and he made everyone around him feel special. ( Major Bill Jensen, AOC, CS-11)

is not published.

When obituaries are published, we give the next-of-kin a one-year complimentary associate membership in the association beginning with the magazine in which the obituary appears. When the one-year membership expires, we invite the next-of-kin to join as a regular associate member if she/he desires. Another question often asked when a deceased graduate is a life member of the association is whether the life membership transfers to the

graduate’s spouse. Life membership dues have been computed on the life expectancy of the graduate and are therefore not transferable to the graduate’s spouse, unless of course the life membership was joint, in which case it does transfer to the spouse. 85

CLASS NEWS “The Saigon History Museum tells of the rich history of Vietnam. It is comparable to the better History Museums around the world. (The Hanoi History Museum was closed on the Sunday and Monday we spent in Hanoi so we could not compare the two.) We were very impressed during our brief visit in the Notre Dame Cathedral. Even on a Monday morning,

Pete Todd 1250 Big Valley Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80919-1015 Home: (719) 531-5874

it was a very active house of prayer. Over the past 40 years there has been much need for Catholic prayer in Vietnam. The Thien Hua Pagoda (lov-

FAX: (719) 531-6697

E-mail: petetodd@aol.com Percent members: 83

HT JOHNSON’S Vietnam travelogue continues: “NhaTrang is a coastal resort with a 7 km stretch of beach. It was much milder here and much

cleaner along the streets. The government has invested a lot of money and there are many joint ventures with Australians, French, Japanese, Chinese, etc., in the country. It continues to be a tourist Mecca in Vietnam. A band welcomed us. It was the first band that we had seen with horns. The trumpets were a wonderful addition to the normal drums and string instruments. “We drove into the countryside where we visited the home of a prosperous farmer. His furnishings had many tables, chairs, and other items made from tree roots. It was notable for the three doors: one for the spirits, one for the adults and one for the children. From there we went to the rice fields where we saw the water buffalo. A visit to the town bakery for the freshly made French bread hot from the oven was a treat. Next was a ride in a sampan along the river. It was a beautiful ride made more interesting by the sand diggers who used pans to dredge sand (for use in making cement) from the river bottom.

ingly called the ‘Heavenly Lady’) was often the last stop as the ‘boat people’ fled Vietnam. It is an impressive, very well endowed and maintained temple. Those who were successful after fleeing Vietnam paid their respect through contributions. Much incense is still burned. Despite its beauty, we left early to get away from the smell. “The War Remnants Museum was as advertised and dramatically showed the Vietnam War from the North Vietnamese eyes. That said, it interesting. They dedicated an entire room to the ‘courageous’ pho-

was

tographers and journalists who helped the North Vietnamese by portraying the horror of the ‘American atrocities’ to the world. Of course, the museum interpreted the photographs to support their positions. There were no photographs of the North Vietnamese and Viet Cong atrocities! Our tour guide’s brother was an F-5 pilot in the South Vietnamese Air Force. He had some interesting insights. “The F-5 pilot who bombed the South Vietnamese Presidential Palace and defected to North Vietnam was in his brother’s unit. The defector

pilot had been a member of the Communist Party prior to going to pilot training in the U.S. After defecting, he led raids on Saigon at the end of the war. He later became a captain in the Vietnamese Airlines, was selected to become the first captain of the 767 aircraft purchased from Boeing, and is now the Air Vietnam Chief Pilot! While he was training in the U.S. to fly the 767, he visited his earlier bases where we trained him to fly before he betrayed his government. “The guide’s brother was sent to ‘reeducation’ camp for three years. When he returned home his wife had split and left his children with his parents. The brother could not get a job and began offering bicycle rides. Subsequently, he also became a tourist guide. The brother now has a relatively good job at an electric power plant near Saigon. Not sure why the brother did not choose to come to the U.S. under the ‘HO’ program for former military officers. In comparison to the defector pilot, the brother

paid a tremendous price for his loyalty. “We spent a few minutes having a drink on the roof of the Rex Hotel in the rain. Many stories were written and told on the roof of the Rex. It is —

still a great hotel with a tremendous view. Even in the rain, we were able

“Boys diving for sand nearNha Trang.”

to find some good shopping areas. One can probably find anything in

Saigon.

“In government papers, Saigon is Ho Chi Minh City. Everyone else calls it Saigon. It is far and away the largest and most vibrant city in Vietnam. The harbor is filled with many ships, large and small. There are some very large buildings. There are many more cars, trucks, buses and motorbikes than Hanoi; however, the traffic seemed much more orderly. The parks and wide streets are well maintained.

“Street Scene in Saigon

“Our visit to the Mekong Delta was a long ride (a short 78 km but a long time). We rode a small boat (20 people) to an island in the Delta. In the midst of a heavy jungle we were entertained in a plantation-like setting and saw many types of plants, ate a wide variety of fruits and ‘candies,’ walked for nearly a mile along dikes in the jungle. We rode in very small (four people) sampans along the maze of canals that were covered with

vegetation back to our “larger” boats. We saw no road vehicles of any type, only boats. The island visit showed the resourcefulness of the Delta people. It also very dramatically portrayed the difficulties in fighting in

“Downtown Saigon 86

”

the Delta. “The former Presidential Palace is now called Reunification Hall. It is very well maintained as it was under President Thieu during the “‘Viet-

nam War.’

Surprisingly, it showed the family quarters, offices, ‘war rooms,’

550+ airmen shot down and captured in Laos returned.”) Ed was senior

and life as it was under the South Vietnamese government. It is a beautiful building. It is amazing that the current Vietnam Government did not completely wipe out the memory. The building is also used for Vietnam

ranking officer as a Captain at Portholes in ‘68, then Farnsworth until ‘71

Government meetings in Saigon and the Ho Chi Minh City mayor uses some of the facility.

to the Hanoi Hilton for release on March 27, 1973 (after 46 months). Ed

“Saigon is a place worthy of investment. Unless the Hanoi-based central government destroys their best asset, Saigon will continue to grow in importance, breadth, and profit. The people are very industrious and do not appear to have the arrogance that was evident in Hanoi.”

Many thanks to HT for his keen insights on latter day developments in country that directly affected the lives of most us. Due to space constraints, I had to omit a poignant postscript that’s worth reading. The a

“rest of the story” is available on the class web site (http://www.aog-

and Plantation Gardens thru Feb ‘72 when he was moved in with the LULUs (Legendary Union of Laotian Unfortunates). He was transferred

had 87 enlisted men with him the Marines made him an Honorary E3—and 23 enlisted recommended him for the Medal of Honor. He received four Silver Stars, Legion of Merit, Bronze Star (with V), two Purple Hearts, 19 Air Medals, three DFCs, MSM and AFCM. Ed got a law degree from the U. of Texas in 1982 and practiced law in Austin, TX, then Astoria, OR, until retiring. He and wife, Susanne, are living in Ilwaco, WA (1,000 people), where he was sworn in as Mayor New Year’s Day, 2002. Going annually to the NAS Pensacola Hospital for treatment, he’s had both knees and a shoulder replaced battle damage. —

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usafa.org/1959/). Click on “Articles.” Nearly 15 percent of living ‘59ers managed to make it to the AF-Navy game in October. The pre- and post-game tailgates were well attended and the majority of the attendees managed to get uptight long enough for the obligatory photo.

Glaza, Leonard, Mosier, Cler, Waddle, Schehr, Schwank We weren’t exactly heroes on the football field this year, so unless you’ve

been living in a cave with bin Laden you know that we had a semi-lousy season. 6-6. Most of the fun

during the season happened offthe field!

We beat San Diego State 29 September 45-21. Preceding that was a party even more

“59ers from all over the country gathered to celebrate the Falcons’ win over

Navy."

Steve and Patty HAMER continue to enrich the world with their progeny and to lead the class in the offspring department. They not only boast 18 grandchildren, but also have welcomed the first great grandchild of

the Class. In the spirit of full disclosure, Steve notes that Christopher is the son of a step-grandchild and therefore not truly a blood descendant. He’ll do until the rest of you laggards get with it! Thought for the Quarter: The GROARKs should have won the Amazing Race. They had more class and poise than the rest of the contestants combined. Guess that made them boring.

A.J. (Rosie) Cler, Jr. 11181 West 17th Ave. (208) Lakewood, CO 80215-2759 (303) 238-4973 e-Fax: (509) 463-4700

E-mail: RCtherose@aol.com Class Web Site: www.usafa.net/1960 Percent members: 87

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I had

operatives there with “Booze Cams,” and, trust me: This was not your garden-variety social.) Margaritas & Sangria with Santa Maria BBQ. Some guests reported an attack by terrorists, and one sighted a Stinger missile landing near the bar. Collateral damage included lacerations, bruises, shattered egos and injured gray matter. Survivors at eve’s end were Andi BIANCUR & Carole Kramer, the VAN INWEGENs, PUPICHes, YOAKUM,

MEINHARDTs, DOYLEs, GLAZAs, with several escorted to the La Jolla Wellness Center. (Warning: If you’re invited to VAN INWEGEN’s, wear Kevlar body armor. As Van cautions: “This ain’t Kansas, Toto!”.)

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another Palindromic Period. Spring: When Baseball! Opening Day, the crack of a bat, musfancy turns to tard on dogs, the ghosts of heroes past in those Green Cathedrals. Fans like Aaron Dean THRUSH, who grew up in St. Johns, OH, went to Crosley Field and is still an avid Reds fan who’s probably right now in Sarasota at Spring Training. Vic THOMAS roots for the Dodgers, Ron DEEP for the Pirates. Johnnie KUENZEL had a chance to play for the Pirates, but chose USAFA. Bill CARNEGIE’s baseball reads: “To Billy CARNEGIE, /s/ Babe Ruth.” (Bill’s mother was related to Hall of Famer Larry MacPhail, who started night baseball, and used to give Bill free tickets to the Yankees.) Bill GILLIS, whose father brought Ted Williams and the Babe into their home for dinner. Norm HALLER (Baseball 4,3,2,Captain 1). Baseball trivia buff Ned WHITMAN. Me, I go to most of the Rockies’ games, and plan trips to Boston (ostensibly to see our daughter and the twins) only when the Red Sox are at Fenway’s Green Monster. I had just finished reading “DiMaggio: The Hero’s Life, "when I ran into a REAL hero someone in an even greater league than the Yankee Clipper.

Ah, yes...it’s spring! 2002

a man’s

bone-shattering than football: Dinner the evening before at

Pat and Earl VAN INWEGEN’s. (R: Bizarre news rides a fast horse

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Name, Rank, Service Number and Date of Birth: Edward Watson LEONARD, Jr.’s mantra as a POW from 1968 thru 1973. Ed was at the Academy for a POW Memorial, and I talked with him after the AFA-UNLV game November 17 th While flying an A-l Sandy on his 257 th mission into enemy territory May 30, 1968, he got Navy Lt. Kenny Fields out, but was shot down (his second time) and eventually captured. (R: Frank GORHAM said “the details of his evading capture were priceless three days up a tall tree with a NV Regular division camped beneath him! Only eight of .

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Top: Before. Bottom: After. We squeaked by Navy 24-18 at Redskins Stadium the 6 th of October.

Ralph LALIME’s Tioga minihome provided a “21 century series rolling tailgate,” reported harried passenger Bob BADGER. “Anyone who’s ridden with Ralph knows that he does things with an RV that most people would never attempt in any kind of ground-bound vehicle, and most at high speed (the game always seems a little anticlimactic in comparison). It’s analogous to Winston Churchill saying that there is nothing so exhilaand missed.” The Flea provided transport to/ rating as being shot at from the game and Prozac to quiet riders’ nerves. Wives attended, and the guys are in the photo. st

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Back: Head, Biancur, Burshnick, Badger, Alnwick, A1 Johnson, Lalime. Front: Fries, Holman, de la Cruz, Glaza, Burke.

The Foofaraw around our AFA-Army weekend November 2-4 began Friday afternoon at the YATES home, then to Broadmoor’s Golden Bee. Saturday morning’s GLAZA-Gate included steaks before we blasted Army 34-24, earning us the Commander-in-Chief’s Trophy (which weighs 170 pounds, slightly heavier than our running backs). ESPN’s “Game Day” program was broadcast from the quadrangle. Saturday night’s dinner at the Radisson had 61 attending: BIANCUR & Carole, BRUSHes, BILELLOs,

CLERs, Barbara CREW & Bob Dunn, DOUGLASSes, FISCHERs, FLYGAREs, FARQUHARs, GLAZAs & son Steve, KALEYs & Sue Woodward, KENDALLs, LUCK, MEINHARDT & sons & wife, MOSIERs & daughter Deb (withtwoUSMA‘93 grads), PORTER, PUPICHes, SAVAGE, SCHEHRs, SEXTONs, SCHWANKs, STUMM, WADDLE family(9), WALSH, YATESes, Vic YOAKUM & Diane (Jansen) Davis. Entertainment by the “Very Light

Opera Company” included a skit panning the ancient Florian Philip MEINHARDT's 67 th birthday, with his hazy recollection of where he was the night President Lincoln was shot! We finished Sunday afternoon at BRUSH’S Mayan Gardens. (Next year: AFA-Navy game October 12,2002.) I’ve watched TV coverage of the war in Afghanistan, and admired former squadron-mate Maj. Gen. Don SHEPPERD’s (‘62) coverage as CNN analyst (R: Don earned his first combat ribbons for cleanup and bomb removal following the Roarin’ 20’s Blast February 22,1960). Other generals cover this conflict, and I wondered why we didn’t have our own General BURSHNICK, GOODSON, HAERTER, HEAD, LOH, Dale THOMPSON, VAN INWEGEN, WALSH, YATES? Aren’t any of these stars articulate, on TV:

brainy, erudite, Intel-wise, swarthy, battle-hardened, grounded in Clausewitz, witty, charismatic, and cute on TV? So, I mused on that a while. Naaahh! Dean BRISTOW converted to Mormonism our First Class Year. During her freshman year at Virginia Tech, George FRIES’ daughter Jennifer decided she was interested in becoming a Mormon, and contacted Dean. Jennifer converted in mid-December, and Dean and Sandy BRISTOW flew in from and attended her baptism. That’s class! Payson, UT unannounced Karen and I crashed Leslie Alden HOBGOOD’s “Practice New Year’s Eve practice ball drop, pracParty” Friday, 28 December in San Antonio -

—

tice champagne, practice singing and practice kissing. Les: “This is where

the professionals tune up for the big event.” (Unsatisfied, he was having another party the next night!) John David MACARTNEY, 63, my roommate fourth-class year, died November 24, 2001 at his home in Washington, DC, following a long and courageous battle with prostate cancer. He was buried January 11, 2002 at Arlington National Cemetery. But, The Sun Also Rises, this spring. Bye from the Rose. Earl N. “Nelson” O’Rear

«VJy

50582 Stonington Drive

Granger, IN 46530-8243

Home: (574) 273-2597

E-mail: ENOandTJO@worldnet.att.net Class Web Site: http://www.usafa61.org/ Percent members: 87 ^vobisF^

It is my sad duty to report three deaths to those of you not on our online Gray Tag Network: Clair CARLING’s wife Kay, Ted NOLDE’s wife Judy, and Ed ZOMPA. We send our heartfelt condolences to each family. Kay Carling battled cancer and passed away on July 12 th Clair had planned to attend .

our

reunion; however, the events of 9 /11 intervened, as it did for so many.

Ted NOLDE and his wife were married a couple of weeks after graduation. She passed away on October 2 nd also from cancer. Earl SAUNDERS said that Ed’s funeral was well attended by family and classmates, with Hector NEGRONI closing the service with some well-chosen words about Ed. Gayle Zompa sends her love to all and wants you to know that the ‘61ers were a great support with cards, prayers, and good wishes, and that she and her family are very grateful. She felt that Ed had a beautiful ,

sendoff at the Academy. Our thanks to Hector for keeping us all informed in Ed’s family’s time of need and to Bob BRICKEY for doing the same for the Carlings. And that leads to the topic of how we can help other classmates and their

families when they can use our assistance. Another classmate brought to my attention that perhaps we should organize ourselves in some fashion to keep abreast of needs since the families affected may be too involved to think of asking (or may not ask). Of course, we want to respect their wishes. If you have thoughts you want considered, please pass them to me or our class officers. I will forward what I receive. Classmates Bob BRICKEY, Randy CUBERO, Sam HARDAGE, Phil LANE, Vic MAXWELL, Rich MAYO, Mike RAWLINS, and Mike QUINLAN attended the November 9 th Colorado Springs Sports Hall of Fame Induction Banquet and their 1958 USAFA football team’s induction. Terry STORM also organized a table of ’61 supporters that included Terry and Carleen STORM, Tom and Anne ELLER, Jim HINKLE, and Brice JONES. Bob BEST is now completely out of the petroleum business. He now owns part of a chemical distribution company and is also involved with Special Asset/Distressed Loan Acquisitions. Stu BOYD left Weber State at the end of 2001 to raise horses and work half-time as an Assistant Administrative Pastor. He joined Civil Air Patrol, assumed the rank of captain,

and is looking forward to checking out in a light plane. Chris (C.G.) and

Janelle CARSON are doing well in Iowa. Chris retired from teaching and now

keeps busy with some volunteer work. Janelle has a great job as a

software test engineer. Our Washington, DC, contingent cheered on USAFA’s win over Navy October 6 th Afterwards, Joan and John KOHOUT hosted a reception. Besides the Kohouts, those locals present were Chuck DIXON and Dottie, Bill and Theda FOSTER, Darrell KOERNER, Ron MULLER (Cathy got ill), Mike and Ginny RAWLINS, Jim and Linda ROGERS, Bill and Rhoda STACKHOUSE, Charlie and Sarah STEBBINS, and Karl and Diane WHITAKER. Others included Mark ANDERSON (San Antonio), Sue and Jerry LEFTON (Pinehurst), Terry and Carleen STORM (Colorado Springs), Rees and Pauline WAGNER (New York), and Bob (‘64) and Sandy Hovde. Tom and Liz HILL were great hosts when Teri and I joined them for a fun evening and outstanding steaks in Elkhart, Indiana. Tom is now totally retired but still enjoys his love of photography. .

Brice JONES said that the World Croquet Championship (WCC) auction to benefit children in life-threatening circumstances exceeded one

million dollars for the second consecutive year. He encourages everyone who hasn’t yet attended to consider it in 2002. Brice will have more time to spend with everyone and plans several more wine country and assorted

functions. Plan to arrive in San Francisco in time for the opening night th th tea May 15 and leave after Lights Out the 19 Monday’s stragglers should bring their clubs. The Grand Island name change to the Monte L. MOORBERG Airport is on hold for a year or two. We will keep you informed. Thanks for your .

great support of this project. Lowell and Sandy JONES had a great trip (June 7 th -October 17 th ) throughout the Northwest involving family, friends,

birthdays, and reunions th Ole and Betsy KOMARNITSKY entertained them particularly our 40 royally in Seattle, including a wonderful dinner at their home with Gene —

HOPP, Art KERR, and their wives. The D.C. group had another good luncheon on December 5 th

Pat

BUCKLEY, Chuck DIXON, Lowell JONES, Darrell KOERNER, John KOHOUT, Ron MULLER, Terry NORRIS, Bill STACKHOUSE, Charlie STEBBINS, John SULLIVAN, Charlie THOMAS, and Karl WHITAKER toasted the memories ofVic and Ed, discussed the 40 th reunion, reviewed the ceremonies and Class picture, and discussed the possibility of the 45th reunion in the Washington area. They will await Tom ELLER’s survey results on the 45th reunion site preference, which he will share with everyone. Ron Muller also discussed a mini-reunion in 2002, having dis-

cussed possible places and times with Tom and Brice JONES.

Bill and Paulette SANZENBACHER recently moved to the area in Fawn Lake, VA, leaving the snow and mosquitoes of Wisconsin, but they do miss their Green Bay Packers. Their new telephone number is (540) 972-3414. John MOORE had a mini-‘61 reunion in O’Fallon, IL, after Bob and Margy DINGLE gave them an hour’s notice during their round-the-country excursion. (They have left Utah...leaning towards Missoula, Montana.) The Moores quickly rounded up Jim TULIS (Judy had another commitment) and all dined on O’Fallon’s finest Mexican food. As three classmates who were not able to make the reunion, they raised their glasses high to toast our class. John PAYNE visited Bob GRACE at his home in Bluffton, SC, in October, about five weeks post-op. He was doing great. John took pictures of the reunion to show and tell. From there, he visited his Marine son at

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY! YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED. CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

Quantico, VA. They ran the Marine Corps Marathon together on October 28th. John sent a picture showing him wearing a 1957 USAFA racing shirt. (See our Web Site.) Four Alabama-Mississippi classmates gathered at Jimmy and Susan POOLE’s condo at Orange Beach, AL, for the pre-Christmas weekend. Besides the Pooles were Doug and Dee CAIRNS, Jimmy and Patty HOURIN, and Neal and Gwen WESTBROOK. (See our Web Site for a picture.) The Gray Tag Redneck Riviera Beach weekend will be the first or date firm by the time this appears in second weekend in October 2002 print. Friday night will be the traditional shrimp dinner, Saturday night will be the first Ed ZOMPA memorial fish fry, and Sunday night will be laid-back and easy. Beach stuff, golf, tennis, sightseeing, outlet shopping, and fishing during the days; and fun time together at nights. Mark your calendars now! Hanson SCOTT and Charlie THOMAS were in the Pentagon as part of the Kirtland Partnership Committee visiting H.T. Johnson (’59) on 9/11. They had just started their discussion when they heard the explosion, and the Pentagon really shook. They were around the corner (4E729). They left the building, and their group eventually had to rent two cars to drive to New Mexico since all flights were canceled. Bob BOEDEKER, Hanson SCOTT, and Charlie THOMAS got together for dinner when Pat BUCKLEY was in Albuquerque. The next day Charlie —

went to

Washington for a congressional course and AF Association Board

meeting and had dinner with Ron MULLER. The AF Memorial site land transfer—now the Navy Annex area anchoring one end of Arlington cemwas discussed at etery and overlooking the Pentagon and Washington the board meeting and later included in the Defense Appropriations Bill. —

Smokey and Susie STOVER have traveled around the country a lot visiting friends and family (especially grandchildren), and generally enjoying life. Retired life apparently agrees with them. Ad THOMPSON said that in November he retired after 20 years and 2 months in the USAF and 20 years and 3 months in civilian industry. Sounds pretty balanced, Ad.

Jack and Musa WOLCOTT moved to Bend, OR, to be nearer her family. Musa’s art has really taken off, and she now has one in the White House. When Jack was a corporate pilot in Midland, Texas, he flew George W a few times and said that he is truly a great person. Our president now has one of Musa’s paintings, titled “Serenity,” a quality that Jack says he exudes today as he did 15 years ago when he knew him personally. Thanks for your inputs. To see the full version (more than twice this long), visit our Class Web Site. And that brings me to the final point. We now have 145 persons as part of our online Gray Tag Network (GTN). It’s a good way to stay in touch with most classmates and their families within a few days of anything happening. If you are not part of the GTN, send me your e-mail address to get connected. (The heading to this column

From left at the San Diego game are Jim Whitted, Willy Hoibrow, Stan Patrie, Charlie Hale, Larry Harmon, Mike Quinton and Bob Connolly Owen and Connie HAWKINS have been on the move again this year. They went to Zambia to see a solar eclipse. (One of my friends in Toastmasters hunts down solar eclipses for a hobby. He sailed out of Zanzibar to see the one in Africa. Maybe they know each other.) The Hawkins also th saw son Cory take Jamey Wilson for his wife. Connie enjoyed her 40 high school reunion. Owen has retired and is doing things around the house now. And he keeps the Redtag Nets alive and hopping for us.

Thanks for all you do for the class, Owen. Heard from Gail and Peggy PECK. Gail's Dad has been in the hospital a few times this year but is OK now and celebrated being 86 years old. Son Skot has a new wife. Jack has a new home in London for wife and three kids. Daughter Kayte, with Kaipo and Kanani headed to Hawaii for the holidays. Jen quit her job with Apple and came home for a job at UNLV Liz is in the middle of her j unior year at U NLV. Gail and Peggy have been using the plane to fly around the Southwest and enjoying it. Peggy is finishing another chemo series and is doing well. Our wishes for a good 2002. While I was at a Safety Institute in Las Vegas in October, the local Redtags

had a get-together. In attendance were Bob and Georgie DEBERRY, Gail & Peggy PECK, Paul ROBINSON, and Bobbi ALTMAN.

provides relevant Internet addresses.) John W. “Jack” Jamba 4 Judy Court

From left in Las Vegas are Bob Deberry, Gail Peck and Jack Jamba.

Satellite Beach, FL 32937 Home: (321) 777-5520

Office: (321) 861-6279

Cell: (321) 432-1370 E-Mail: jwjamba@aol.com

Percent members: 72 Hi Redtags! Well, I have gotten a lot of Christmas newsletters this year. Here we go. From Fran & Dave LEE, comes word that Dave retired from U of Dayton but continues as a part-time professor. He enjoys time for hunting,

flying and traveling. They built a new house which has kept Fran busy with decorating. Daughter Kelly became principal of the second largest elementary school in her area. She found out she was pregnant a short time later. Is there a cause and effect relationship there? Her husband, Dean, is finishing his sabbatical with the City of Dayton Alliance and returning to Lexis Nexis. David II is managing an apartment complex in Dayton. Son John is trading equities in Orlando while playing on the 20

Got a missive from Charlie and Pat HALE. They had the house tented for termites. They figure the termites sneaked in during a wild party. th

They attended a reunion of the old 306 Bomb Wing in Melbourne but there was no time for us to get together. They did get to visit the old unit facilities at McCoy Field in Orlando. Son Curt is still in San Bernardino with TGIFridays and wife, Bridgitte, is still at Best Buy. Son Charles is still fighting Meniere’s Condition. We hope he does well in 2002. Pat still does her quilting and Charlie still works for the March Community Credit Union. Their house remodeling resulted in a larger guest room. So stop in if you are in the area.. They look forward to the 40 th reunion.

From Larry and Penny GOOCH comes this news. They are settled in their new home in Santa Maria, CA. Larry is the Chief Technical Officer for the California Space Authority. Penny has seen old friends and found new interests to stay occupied. High on both of their priority lists are frequent visits to the grandkids and twice a year gatherings at their home. Daughter Jennifer is still with Dell Computer in

golf courses in the area.

Round Rock, TX., and Jeff is still with Sears. Daughter Winnie with

Bob and Bobbie GIBSON provide the Marine perspective. He had good words for Don Shepperd’s analyses on CNN and Don’s words about the “Grunt” side of the operations. Bob is working with recent USAFA grads who look at him like he’s a T-Rex from prehistoric USAFA history. His son Rob is going through the Ratline in his first year at VMI. Son Steve is a sophomore in high school and lettering in football, wrestling, swimth ming and crew. They are looking forward to the 40 Reunion. The San Diego group had a tailgate at the USAFA-San Diego State game. Stan PATRIE sent me a picture of the gang. Got a letter from Judy (Daryl WOOD) who retired with a disability on January 1. She’s an associate member of the AOG now. She went to a

Dannie and two kids are about to head to London for a six-month temporary assignment. Daughter Laura, David and two kids are mov-

memorial service in October for all grads who passed away in 2000. She th says it was emotional but helpful. And she’ll be at the 40 reunion.

ing. Laura and David have accepted positions at a social services company in Sacramento where they administer a foster children’s program. See you at the 40 th

Tom and Virginia MOORE sent a three-page newsletter. Tom has a son

James, son-in-law Maurice, and four grandsons. Daughter Elizabeth transferred to Toronto where she heads the admin activities of the U.S. Consul General. Son James, a Marine pilot, continues to fly the President’s helicopters. Katharine, Maurice and the kids moved into a th new house in Ashburn, VA. After Tom recovered from his 60 birthday, he and Virginia went on a 38-day, round-the-world trip. Would you believe that Tom went to Australia to ride a hot air balloon and a 89

camel?...not simultaneously. They did some other traveling during the year but planned on a holiday at home with the family and a trip later on th to the 40 reunion. I also heard from Gary BAUGHMAN and Jeannie Wager, DBA “The

dinner in Ft Worth, bogeyed through a Saturday morning golf game at Bear

Baughman Family” (a loving relationship). They are eagerly awaiting the mixed doubles tennis season beginning in January. Gary’s Senior th Men’s 3.5 UTSA team won the Atlanta City Championship for the 5 time this autumn. They play in the state tournament in May. His team has been the Georgia State Champions four times and has been third in the SE Regionals. Gary is mentoring advanced science students at two local middle schools and written a book on how to design, build and fly indoor rubber-powered models for science competition. One of his models has flown over 11 minutes on a skinny loop of rubber. (Take th note of that, Chuck CHEESEMAN.) Hope to see you both at the 40 Re-

that more of you come through Satellite Beach this coming year. If not,

union. Got a letter from Charlie and Mary Jo PRICE in Atlanta. They have settled into their new house in Atlanta. Mary Jo is semi-retired from golf and

enjoying bridge and a cooking group. She shied away from a shopping group because they would only slow her down at the malls. Charlie doesn’t have much time for golf but managed to be on two winning teams, ineluding a PGA Super Seniors Pro-Am Team. They attended the reunion of their old 525 Tactical Fighter Sq. from Bitburg. They also went to a family wedding and reunion. They are mastering those five lane highways in Atlanta. Hope to see you at the 40 lh reunion. Got a card from Willie and Nancy GRAY from across the river in Melbourne. Willie still works part time for Lockheed-Martin and as a consultant for Bechtel on the Nellis AFB Range proposal. That job should be completed by April and then he will retire for good. OH sure! And I’ll be a Rock & Roll Superstar next year. Nancy tried to retire this year and only lasted one week. Forget it Willie and Nancy. It’s not in your genes. They went on a cruise to Alaska with their old unit from Hawaii. Son

Larry is still in Atlanta at the “Front Page News” restaurant. Daughter Christine accepted a position at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City as a clinical psychologist. And I feel certain we’ll see them at the 40 th

We had a mini-reunion here on the Space Coast two weeks ago. Duke

and Monika GREEN were in the area looking at prospects for a new lo-

Creek, and sopped up a Major League Baseball game at the ball park. I guess that’s all for now. It will be two months before we launch another Shuttle. It will be another year to think about retirement. Hope

I’ll be looking for you at the 40 th Reunion. 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: 76

Happy New Year everyone! This coming year will certainly be different than the past and my resolution for 2002 is to get on with things! One difference for Linda and me in 2002 is no more single children. th to Patrick Andrew ThoThe happy couple decided to get married in their hometown, San Francisco. All our families dutifully went to San Francisco for both the holidays and the wedding and we had a blast! Small world but Andrew’s uncle is Colonel (retired) John Thomas, USAF. John was acting head of the Aero Department at USAFA at the same time I was in the History Department. Susan asked that I wear my Mess Dress uniform for the ceremony and of course one cannot turn down a request like that. For more than one reason my Mess Dress was long past wearable condition so I had to spring for a new one. Classmates in attendance were Jack and JoAnn MCTASNEY down from Sacramento and Lynne and Dick FERENCY, who won the long distance travel award, from Daytona Beach. I have

Susan, our oldest, was married on December 28 mas.

included a digital photograph of the bride and her “old man” but it may not be good enough to print. If not, I’ll send along a professionally done print next time. My excuse is a six-year-old computer not really up to digital photography. It doesn’t even have a USB connection. Another resolution for 2002 get a new computer. —

cation. So we got together for dinner. In attendance were Duke and Monika, of course, Willie Gray, Mike and Kay BUTCHKO and Caroline and I.

My e-mail in-box was really humming these past four months. Heard from many of you on many varied and interesting subjects. Thanks for including me in your address list. Barry WALRATH’S note of the

At the Space Coast get-together in the front row from left are Monika Green, Kay Butchko and Caroline Jamba. In the back row are Willie Gray, Duke

Green, Mike Butchko and Jack Jamba. Bill and Sue HAUGEN sent a newsletter. Bill retired from Boeing for good after 12 years. They built a new house in the Washington, DC area and stayed with Chet and Eva Lee GRIFFIN while the house was being built. Daughter Cindy had a second baby. Linda and Caise have two children in nearby Sterling, VA. Stephanie and Michael have moved to Manhattan for his Boston Consulting Group job. And Stephanie is th now a veterinarian. And we look forward to seeing them at the 40 reunion.

And finally, there was a mini-reunion in the Dallas-Ft worth area in September. Jerry Smith helped organize the events. They feasted at a Friday

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY! YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED.

Valentine’s Day dinner dance produced a lot of mail filled with interesting comments and valuable data. The event is being hosted by the class of‘63 (USAFA, USMAand USNA) and will be held at the Army Navy Country Club in Arlington, VA. Unfortunately, by the time you read this column the event will be a memory (see the notes on a class web site). Still, I hope to mine some data from the event so have put on my to-do list an action to call some of the participants and get some pictures and stories. Some of those responding to Barry’s note used the “Reply to All” feature on their e-mail applications and I got to see many of their inputs. Needless to say, not many of the folks who live outside the D.C. area were planning to attend the affair. Bob and Vevonna Kennedy excused themselves because they were “stuck in Garmisch”. Joe Lee BURNS wanted to know if anyone knows the Navajo Hogan story me too. John HOCKEMEIER wondered why the Army Navy Club isn’t the Air Force, Army, Navy Country Club? John Bellotte said he would be celebrating Valentine’s Day in Germany where he is working at USAFE HQ. Roger Graham tuned in from Atlanta saying he was still trying to deal with Christmas. John Borling reported that he and Myrna would be spending the time right up to the day traveling through Japan, Vietnam and Thailand (pictures and stories eh, John?). John also put in a commercial for SOS America (Service over Self) at www.sosamerica.org and supporting by membership or any other way you choose. Take a look, some interesting stuff. A1 FULLERTON reports that his “new” wife, Paula (now married 10 —

especially since years), gave him quite a surprise birthday in August his 60th was in March! You may remember that Kathy and A1 were married graduation day. Unfortunately, Kathy lost a very difficult three-year —

CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

battle to cancer shortly after their 27th anniversary. Very proud of his two daughters; Pam (37 in November), an advertising exec in Boston with two children; and Wendy (34), a newspaper editor in Fort Myers with Al’s youngest grandchild, photo enclosed. They all were at the party as well as his mother and a brother from Florida and a brother from Denver. Still enjoying the investment business in spite of some rough times, key outside interests, family, flying and skiing. Little recent contact with classmates but we do have a very active service academy networking group in Boston. Still living in Boston’s Back Bay but spending lots of time at our home in Cotuit on Cape Cod. Great input Al, and thanks.

The McTasneys, Nacrellis and Deriegs in Cannes. good for an off year. Randy sent me the list of those who were signed up to attend the game and festivities. He thinks there were a couple more who showed up. The list included: Bill and Nancy BALL, Randy and Vonna REYNOLDS, Jimmie BUTLER, Drue and Betty DEBERRY, George FREDERICK, Jim and JO GASTON, Bob and Charlie HAYES, Jerry and Laura MCCLELLAN, Dave BOECK, Jim HAUSER, DeVere HENDERSON,

Denny KING, Larry and Jeanne MCLAUGHLIN (got the WRS thing, thanks), Steve SAVONEN, Bill SIMPSON, and Butch. Given that Butch’s efforts have routinely resulted in Air Force victories he should be formally installed as the permanent Class Leader for all-Air Force vs. Navy/Army Football Game parties. Do I hear a second?

Al and grandson Matthew

Class Web Site: Many of you received Jim DIFFENDORFER'S appeal for some help with a Class Web Site. For those who did not, he is reporting success. It is a great idea and could be one where news and communications for Class events like the Class Reunion, the mini-reunion and annual Army or Navy football bash hosted by Butch VERDIER or a Valentine’s Day Dinner Dance can be communicated in a more timely fashion. This column is really poor at communicating such events because of the needed six months or so lead-time. Gil MERKLE has been selected as the primary Golden Boy Web Master and Jim KUHN and Geoff MCCARATHY as backups. Diff says work is in process and he has had a peek at the page setup. Took a look as late as today at the AOG Web Page and did not see our Class

Page there. Maybe by the time you read this it will be there. I know we are all looking forward to the page and your comments/suggestions for the site are welcome. Send directly to Gil/Jim. Don NEFF wrote back at the end of September about Dan DIETZ’S re-

Not everyone is in this picture. Randy said this was the first of Butch’s Bashes he had attended. “Last year Vonna and I made it to the CSU game and, in-spite of the minus-29 wind chill and snow, had a wonderful time. My comments this year were that I was touched and happy to be there. The tailgate and the Cup Cer-

Don’s report is better than I can write so take it away: “Last August 11th Dan Dietz retired from Delta Airlines. It was a mandatory thing and Dan was hoping to fly at least one or two years more. Dan had a retirement party in his backyard in Newnan, GA with tirement from Delta.

emony after the game were wonderful. We had dinner in Dolittle Hall and because the Class of‘71 didn’t need the building, we had it ail to ourselves. My thanks to the people, especially Butch, who organized this.” He also added a little update: “Since I just took up golf a little less than a year ago (yes I know, some 37 years too late) Bill BALL treated me to my first experience on Eisenhower. We played the Silver Course. Being on the “new site” still has that feeling of magic for me. I know this will be a regular event for me. Not much to say at this end except I am the ‘old man’ when it comes to USAFA types at Embry Riddle’s Prescott, [AZJ Campus. We have two fel-

78+ of his closest friends and family. Maggie and I drove over from

Georgetown, TX and had a great time. I am sure that many of our classmates are facing the same retirement situation as Dan. I was quite impressed with his work associates who spoke very highly of Dan’s professionalism and the care that he exercised for his crewmates and passengers. Dan received a number of gifts but one of his neighbors gave him a new uniform in place of his airline uniform which he took out of a bag one piece at a time. Naturally, the dark socks and sandals were last and make him look like the perfect retiree. Do we all have outfits like this in our closest?” Unfortunately, the photo provided did not have enough resolution to be printed in the magazine. Jack and JoAnn MCTASNEY’S Christmas missive briefly mentioned a trip to Europe the two of them took with Chief and Barb NACRELLI and Peggy and Tom DERIEG. While in San Francisco (see above) I asked JoAnn to send me some more information on the trip and maybe a picture she did. Back in May, they rented a house in Provence. After that the Derieg’s stayed in the house another week with their son Tom Jr. and his wife. The Nacrelli’s went on to Prague and Jack and JoAnn went to Italy and Germany. The picture was taken in Cannes: Butch VERDIER has over the years graciously sponsored a mini reunion during the annual Falcons vs. Army/Navy football game at USAFA. This year was no exception and Butch successfully served up another Falcon victory over the “Grand Old Army Team.” The game was in November and it looks from the picture I got from Randy REYNOLDS they experienced great football weather. Next year it will be Navy in October. Per our new plan to annually (at this event) turn over the Cups for those of us who passed away in the intervening year, two of the Cups were turned over in a ceremony at Doolittle Hall. They belonged to Roy ARNOLD and John GOUTAS. Attendance at the events seemed to be by and large very —

...

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lows, Rich Wirth ’71 and Jim Kula '69 on staff here although 1 hear that the

Flight Department has hired a ‘61 grad to teach ground school.” You never know where you will run into Ralph WETTERHAHN. Listen to Tom FRYER’s story: “Angie and I just got back from spending a great Veterans Day weekend in Branson, MO. As you may be aware, it is a weeklong celebration there rather than just one day. One of many highlights was spending time with Ralph Wetterhahn. He made a couple of appearances at the new Veterans Memorial Museum and was promoting his new book, “The Last Battle.” He looked great and we enjoyed talking with him. I had read a little about the book, but it was good to get a firsthand insight into Ralph’s research. He autographed a copy for us and 1 “

get a copy thru the AOG bookstore.” Tom also asked if anyone [has] considered having a mini-class reunion at Branson? I know several classes have gone together on cruises. Because of its cenam sure you can .

tral location, it might be neat to have an off-reunion year get together there one of these times. Just a thought. Tom” A note from Jim THYNG sent to all of us on the AOG e-mail roster bears repeating. He described a memorial being planned in Pittsfield and Barnstead, NH for BG Harrison Thyng, Jim’s Dad. General Thyng is one of the very few (seven) men who were air combat aces in both WWI1 and Korea. Jim was writing to ask for our help. He is asking how to find out, 91

for example, who to contact in the aviation industry, or the Department of Defense, or anyone else who might consider the memorial worthy of a contribution, however small? Do any of you know a tech rep, club or agency linked to the then North American F-86 Sabre? Republic is gone, I think is that the end of the P-47 Thunderbolt follow-up? Does anyone know someone in the 4th FIW, the outfit that his Dad commanded in —

Korea? Do any of you have contacts in other classes who would be willing to lend assistance? There must be lots of other links. What are they?

Jim suggests we look up www.pittsfield-nh.com/thyngmemorial.htm for more information.

He can be reached atjrthyng@aol.com or at 131 Eaton

Road, Pittsfield, NH 03263, or at (603) 435-6879. Thanks to Tom Fryer we have an update on Norm WELLS. Norm’s words follow: “We moved to Kerrville on 1 Nov, but my office is still in Grand Prairie, which is 270 miles away. I plan to live in my travel trailer there during the week and come back here on weekends. Except when I work in Austin 110 miles or Dayton, OH or Aberdeen, MD, or Binghamton, NY. I’m the chief engineer for Lockheed Martin’s electromagnetic gun program. We have a contract with the Army to try to make the technology work. The physics works, but the engineering is a challenge. I never thought of doing such a thing when we were at Purdue. I'll probably work another year or two and then retire. This will be our retirement house. It’s in the Texas Hill Country not too far from LBJ’s ranch. We have five acres on a working ranch one of 369 parcels. The cattle roam all but 20 percent of everyone’s property. The common area includes two lakes, several creeks, clubhouse, stables, and a pool. Our kids and so do we!” grandkids love it here —

Dick Flechsig (and your Scribe): “What could be better than a crew layover in a town with free beer?"

ther didn’t have a reunion, didn’t take pictures, or are afraid to send me

pictures. Nevertheless, just to prove the picture was indeed misplaced and not lost, I have included it below. It is just as I described it last year, "... imagine a group of very distinguished gentlemen posing near the lake.”

—

Roger Korenberg sent a note asking for the material I received on Bob Rex. In the note, Roger gave a short update saying all is still well with him out here in the heartland. He is an environmental engineer with the state, but his real interest is his farm with some Arabian horses and a few head

of cattle. You will recall this time last year I included an update on Ken and Kay BROMAN. One of the items was a possible move to the Seattle area. Well,

according to Ken’s Christmas note this year, they have gone and done it moved from Shelby, NC to the Great Northwest new address; 16208

—

SE 251 st Street, Kent, WA. To all of you who sent holiday notes, thank you very much for thinking of us. With the wedding and all, Linda and I just didn’t find the time this

year.

Again, please accept our best wishes for a happy and prosperous

New Year. A distinguished group ofgentlemen by the lake. Reunion: DJ ALBERTS had a meeting with about 16 classmates/wives

Bob Hovde 206 Walker Ave.

in late July to discuss the 40 th reunion. The consensus expressed was: A.

Huntsville, AL 35801

Downtown living preferred; B. Next reunion should be four days, not three

H: (256) 532-3923

as has been the

O: (256) 895-2807/ Fax: (256) 895-9222

D. Should try for a Navy weekend, somewhere about the first weekend in

H: rjslhovde@telocity.com 0: bhovde@space.hsv.usra.edu

wip?

Percent Members: 73

Remember September: Besides the obvious changes in air travel, there are fundamental

changes to how things will be done in the future. As we watched our forces bomb Afghanistan, did you notice B-ls and B-2s doing “tactical” bombing and Navy F- 18s operating over a landlocked country? The world as we knew it is fast becoming history. There is something to be said, though, for such happenings as Huntsville’s “Heroes Parade,” honoring the military, police and firefighters. It hasn’t always been that but it’s good for a change). way (and probably won’t remain Speaking of changes on airlines, Dick FLECHSIG was my pilot on an American Airlines flight from DFW to HSV in October. Before takeoff, he —

came into the cabin and got on the PA

system. He welcomed the passen-

gers and asked if anyone needed to take any medicine to keep from acting strange because that was the last chance they would get. Then he proceeded to tell us that if anyone tried to get into the cockpit, and wasn’t stopped by an air marshal, we should remember that we were a large group and we should start throwing anything we had at him or them, including any spare cell phones we weren’t using. Then, we were to grab him and hold him down making sure he knew that we didn’t want him to get up until Dick could land at the nearest airport and turn him over to the authorities. Then he said, “Remember, we’re Americans, we’re mad and we’re not going to take it anymore!” He returned to the cockpit to

practice. C. Plan a prayer breakfast as one of the events.

October. (DJ floated the idea of June for a true 40th, but it “never made it to the end of the runway.”) While most enjoyed the format of “find your own place to eat” on Saturday at the last reunion, they felt it could have been better organized, i.e., try to retain this format for post game, but also find way to have the informal social dinner and the more formal

meeting dinner as time before last. DJ also wanted feedback on the purchase of pavers as memorials to our classmates who have died.

(Jay KELLEY used leftover Contrails money

to start the pavers with all who had died up to mid-2001.) DJ writes, “We

do have some money left in our class fund that could be tapped for pavers as memorials to classmates, but I would feel more comfortable with a bit more feedback from the rest of the class.” OK, folks. Here’s your chance to flood DJ with advice. His email address is djalberts@worldnet.att.net

Other Reunions: Air Force Navy football is another good reason for reunions. As you can see in the picture below, The BELMONTs, MADLs -

and HOVDEs were at the game. The evening before, we saw more of the

applause. Since Dick and his crew were remaining in Huntsville the next night, (See picture below.) It’s hard, of course, to get an opinion out of anyone in ’64, but Dick ventured to state that it was going to be tough in the airline industry for a while and he had some good ideas about what to do with the terrorists. Long-lost Pictures: Last December, I wrote that I had misplaced the th picture of the 7 Squadron mini-reunion at Harry PEARCE’s house at Gull we invited him over to the house.

Lake, MN, in August 2001. Since no one sent a picture this year, they ei92

From left are Bob Hovde, Lynn Madl, Sandy Hovde, Denny Madl, Peggy and Paul Belmont. The Redskin’s new stadium is a good place to beat Navy!

class at the Saber Society dinner. Paul BELMONT sent the picture along with his Christmas missive. Paul is still with TASC (even though it has changed hands several times in his 15 years there it’s now a Northrup Grumman company). Peggy keeps very busy directing the Fairfax County Public School system’s Physi-

cal Therapy Program. Her program deals with over 3,000 client students, giving her quite a challenge. (Just keeping track of 100 direct reporting therapists would be too much for most people!) Paul also reports that Denise is in her eighth year as a pre-school special-ed teacher and Lesley is with Deloitte Consulting (where she was on the road every week her first year) and is now based in Atlanta. Paul and Peggy are also going through the renovation, add-on, “when-is-it-going-to-be-done!” sunroom addition to their house. Other Email: Joe GRIFFITH, responding to a vicious attack on his character (I think I said that some people only surfaced when an email con-

troversy arose) wrote, “Haven’t surfaced? I did not realize I had been under water. I never learned anything while talking so I just quietly take it all in. Occasionally I can’t resist weighing in. This was one of those occasions. By the way, information for all, Dave SICKS who really fell off the earth lives up here (Alaska). Heard from him a few weeks ago. First time since pilot training.” Keith LUCHTEL also wrote, “A note to everyone: Don’t miss our classmate, Ron GROWDEN, in “Ragtime” if it is in a theater near you. Patti

Thanks Dee Keyser, and Joe, I hope your last year of teaching and upcoming trip to Turkey go well. Please take time to e-mail or write to Hank BONDARUK, Jr. Hank has had a recurrence of his lymphoma (of brain). Further radiation and surgery seem to be out of the picture, so he is on Decadron (a steroid to reduce brain swelling and an anti-cancer drug, Temozolmide (Temodor). Hank is fighting hard and has huge support from friends and family. Please pray for our pal, Hank, and Tillie. (Hankl965@aol.com)

Anyone remember that all-around fun guy and marvelous athlete, JT Brannon of 22 nd Squadron who left the Academy in Nov ‘63? He has been

spotted teaching at UTEP and if you are interested, please contact me for more info.

Had the happy occasion to be in San Francisco over Christmas to visit family and could not resist the opportunity to link up with old 21 Squadst

ron partners in crime Rocco AICALE and

Doug MELSON. Doug flew in

from his home in Reno for an early show (SEA) out of Oakland and Roc’s company, Safeco, has it’s office and manufacturing facility in San Leandro just a few minutes away (I got a tour and it’s impressive). We gathered at Francesco’s for an outstanding Italian dining experience and some timeless and hilarious stories like “an F-4 a day into Tampa Bay” and three

pieces of advice for old guys: #1: never pass up an opportunity to pee. #2 and #3 are left to your imagination since this is a family mag.

and I saw it Thursday night in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, and it was great. They had a big crowd and got a standing ovation. Helluva deal! We really enjoyed getting together with Ron afterward. That’s all the news that’s fit to print or that I know about, anyway. I can’t believe it’s really getting to be time to think about a 40 th Reunion! —

Rick Zurbrugg Box 22615

Hilton Head Island, SC 29925

(843) 689-5321 FAX: (843) 689-5403

E-mail: ezurb@mindspring.com Percent members: 71

Hey ‘65! As I compose this short piece, suburban Atlanta sits paralyzed by an unusual 5” of snow and I thank Odin that I am not at Hartsfield waiting on the tarmac like hundreds (thousands?) of others this a.m. 2001 has been a year of difficulty and tragedy for folks but, hopefully, many of you have been on the helping end of the equation. Not much correspondence this trip, but I could always count on Joe KOENIG: “Here’s a picture of Mike DOUGLAS, Jerry KEYSER, and Steve AMDOR of Ninth Squadron who with their wives Donna, Linda, and Dee were in Albuquerque for a mini-reunion at the KEYSER’s cabin in Pinetop, AZ. Tom OWENS was planning to be there but didn’t make it from his home in the D.C. area. The lake in the picture was one of the catch and release lakes in the Arizona White Mountains where the White Mountain Apache tribe is trying to bring back the apache trout. The report from the reunion is that all fish were safe (i.e. none caught) and Mike and Linda were tre chic... in their fishing attire. Steve reported that the easiest way to get Mike’s Yukon out from under the canoe was to drive the Yukon into the water and float it off. The Yukon performed well and the girls were supervising! There was hiking, picnicking, blessing counting and golf with Steve the big winner. Three and a half days of truly wonderful times

together again.”

From left are the Scribe, Rocco Aicale, and Doug Melson in December 2001 in Oakland. For any of you who sent Holiday cards or letters with pictures, etc, to the South Carolina address, I deeply apologize for not getting them in this issue. Have not been able to get to South Carolina since the early part of December. My desktop had a nasty virus in late Nov, early Dec and if you have received a strange message from me, I would like to hear about it. Finally got Windows XP installed on the laptop, but the driver for the HP scanner is not ready yet. So, beset by technologic willies, this

column is short but does not reflect any lack of enthusiasm for hearing from as many of you as I can, so send in those digital pictures (266 dpi or better) and let us know how you are doing. Be well, do good work and

keep in touch. Cheers, Rick (ezurb@mindspring.com). 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! The 35

w Reunion was small, strange, but really a lot

of fun. It was small only about a hundred of the boys from ‘66 made it to this reunion. Some couldn’t make it because of the Sep 11 terrorist attacks like Ron BRACY, who is an ANG Chaplain on active duty in J-6 on —

—

the Joint Staff at the Pentagon. Ron was in the Pentagon during the attack, was not injured, but was very busy providing aid and support to the victims. He has been working 12-hour shifts in the National Command Center. Others had to cancel because of their job requirements (yes, some of us still have to work for a living). Jim MURPHY, who works for ARINC near Scott AFB, had some unexpected “end-of-the-Fiscal Year” projects pop up that had to be put on contract before the end of September. His assistant had been called up to active duty, so Jim was stuck with the job and had to cancel out on the Reunion. Others didn’t make it because it th was the 35 reunion not a “big” one like the 30 th or 40 th (or 50 th for those still around). Or maybe because there was not a home football game... which brings us to the “strange” part of the Reunion. There was a USAFA football game (more on that later), it was just somewhere else. Also, because of the Sep 11 attacks, the Cadet Area was not even for old ex-inhabitants, like us. That meant that open for visitors the open house and lunch at Mitch’s with the cadets were cancelled, and most of the activities took place at Doolittle Hall or at the hotel. —

—

August 2001. From left are Mike Douglas, Jerry Keyser and Steve Amdor at Pinetop, AZ.

In spite of all of the above, it was really a fun reunion. The smaller crowd

gave everyone a chance to sit down and actually talk to each other, instead of the usual cocktail party “Nice to see you” two-minute conversations at the larger gatherings. The reduced number of mandatory formations also gave us the free time to play golf, wander around the local tourist attractions that we ignored as cadets, and just hang out with old

rowed a guitar, and knocked out a great version of “Johnny B Goode”. The place was rockin’ and people from other events at the hotel were complaining about the noise ‘66 was back in town! One of our classmates’ guests, who had not been exposed to this crowd before, commented that we all “seemed to be stuck in the 19- to 25-year-old mentality.” The reply, of course, was “...and your point is?” -

friends. I guess I should report on some of the Reunion activities, so that those who missed it will know what happened (and those that were there, too). Thursday started off with a golf tournament that somebody must have won, because of all the people who claimed that they played so well. That

evening we had a reception at the hotel and it was the first chance for everyone to see each other and start commenting on how little any of us had changed. (Whatever happened to the Honor Code?) Dorsey PRICE had just ridden all the way from Tucson on his motorcycle, and Lyle KOEN had just flown in from Austin in his homebuilt airplane. Kenny BOONE’s date was the same girl that he took to June Week in 1966. They had lost track of each other for most of the years since we graduated, but recently got back together again. Kenny had a picture of them from June Week, and she looked just as good as she did then. Unfortunately, so did Kenny.

“Bubba” Berry brings down the house.

Saturday leisurely day, with golf, squadron get-togethers, and resting up for the football game (remember the football game?). Because of some schedule changes after our Reunion date had been established, the football game was an away game at San Diego State with a 2100 kickoff time. (That’s 9 o’clock at night for those of you can’t remember milifor those of us who can, it was still 9 o’clock at night.) Rather tary time than take everyone on a road trip to San Diego, we all met at the Stadium Press Club, had a catered barbeque dinner, and watched the game on several large screen TVs. It was a great idea, another fun party, and USAFA was a

—

won the game.

As I said at the beginning, the Reunion was small, strange, but a lot of fun. Thanks to our local classmates who did all the work to make sure we would have a good time, in spite of the circumstances. Keep those cards and e-mails coming! Until next time....Happy Landings!

Kenny Boone and his JuneWeekdate, 35 years later. The wild side started to creep out when Wayne SKORA strolled in wearing his red bathrobe with a stuffed falcon perched on his shoulder. Then

Larry Wilson

he was joined by Arne WEINMAN, also wearing his red bathrobe. Seeing Wayne dressed like that wasn’t really so weird, because I hear that he wears

Albuquerque, NM 87111

that bathrobe (and bird) around the house all the time. But when Arne

joined him, I started to hear the theme from the “Twilight Zone”.

13100 Pinehurst Ave. NE

Home: (505) 291-8949

Work: (505) 816-2092/DSN: 246-2404 E-mail: Lwilsn628@aol.com Percent members: 66

TJuswiw

as I am writing this when 2002 is still very Greetings one and all, and young Happy New Year to you all! I suspect that more than a few of you may have celebrated as we did, “sensibly” and at home, staying awake (barely) to toast the New Year with champagne at the appropriate hour. Not quite like the hard partying, dance-on-the-tables, pound-down-thebooze, where’s-my- lucky-date Days of Yore. Thanks heaven. I think I could handle another like that only in my dreams. Ah youth... here’s a bit of input from a few Holiday notes. Enough of that —

—

ArneWeinman andWayne Skora trying to remember why they are wear-

ing their bathrobes at a cocktail party. Friday started with a leisurely breakfast and a chance to visit with different folks as they wandered through the dining room on their way to the day's activities. Tom SHEPLER is a physician in the Washington DC area, living in Vienna VA. He told a few stories about Sep 11 and how he treated some of the victims from the Pentagon. Lyle KOEN is a retina surgeon in Austin TX. In addition to building his owm plane, he has been on an African

safari, and has volunteered his medical services in some

remote areas of the world.

Bill RILEY lives in C Springs and is working

for Logicon. Bill is the program manager of a software group that is try-

ing to build a Training Information Management System for AETC that will do everything for everyone and keep them all happy. He is learning the real meaning of “herding cats”. A1 RICHARDSON is a CPA who lives

about halfway between Ft Worth and Dallas, so that he can be close to all the rich people who need his help to count their money. Friday afternoon started with briefings by the USAFA staff on the state of the Academy and the status of some current projects to make it even better. Marty DAACK learned that the term “Daack Attack” is still a part of the cadets’ vocabulary. The briefings were followed by a memorial ceremony for our departed classmates and the dedication of our class Paver Memorial project. Thanks to Hans MUEH, the last of our classmates still on continuous active duty, for pulling this ceremony

together

and giving the eulogy. a dinner with classFriday night was the big event of the reunion mates, wives, girlfriends, coats and ties, some of the above, or all of the —

above. It was an enjoyable affair, until the band started to play “We’ve Then it turned into a real party. Half the room, lead by J.O. MCFALLS, was dancing and jumping into the air to “Shout”. Then Bill “Bubba” BERRY got up on stage, bor

Got to Get Out of This Place” and "Shout”.

First, from Jackie and Les JENSEN: their son Matt graduated from med school last year and is now an intern in Salt Lake City, after which he will return to Iowa City for residency training. He made the most of his free time, hiking the Appalachian Trail and then “dragging his mother around Ireland for two weeks.” Jackie loved it. Son Mike continues to enjoy workand indulged Les by taking him to a Cubs ing in downtown Chicago game, viewed from a skybox. Now Les has a new dream retirement job: the guy who wheels the dessert cart around the skyboxes, perhaps snacking occasionally while watching the games. Meanwhile Les continues teaching music in Indianola, Iowa, and at the Ankeny Academy of Music. And from Em MONDA, in Louisville, KY: it is OK but it is not Laguna Beach, where he, wife Michelle, 16-year-old son Andrew and six-year-old Alex hope to retire in the next five to six years. Like many of us, Em is apprehensive about Andrew’s reaching driving age. Here’s a hot tip from one who’s been there: Whatever it costs, keep your insurance current. And don’t put him in an expensive or fragile vehicle. Em and Michelle have a few years to wait for the driving experience with Alex, who sounds about as charming as a boy that age can be. Em has been on the world circuit lately, traveling to Europe, Asia and Australia on Tricon business. He thinks that India may be on the circuit next. So if you are in Dehli or Punjab or —

otherwise in that direction and feel the need for some KFC, or pizza, or look for Em lurking in the area. Brief Holiday notes also indicate that RP MILLER and family in Phoenix, AZ (family photo at top of next page), and Abner and Patti HAYNES in Destin, FL, are alive and thriving. 35th Reunion info: Another intended consequence of the September 11 assault on America has been the closing of the Academy grounds to most visitors. So Frank CHUBA and the reunion committee have had to make special arrangements to get all members through the gates for their he meetings. Paul HENRY, the PA-Marketing Chair (can you believe it?

tacos

—

Tim Davidson

%i|\o fin

9712 Hidden Valley Road

Vienna, VA 22181-6094 (703)255-5313 Fax: (703) 255-5377

WfWJ

E-mail: timd@erols.com Percent members: 65

HELLO ’68! American flags steadfastly wave in our neighborhoods as

prosecute a very difficult global war against terrorists. The war evokes memories “for whom the bell tolled” in our journey of 37.5 years since

the class was formed. Please take a few moments to reflect on our fallen comrades as the roll for ‘68 is called. Jim ALEXANDER, Kim ANDERSON, Frank BIRK, Dave BOWLES, Gerry BROWN, B.C. BURNETT, Mike CARTWRIGHT, Armand CASTRO, Mike CAUDILL, Jack DUFFY, Ian

Roy, Rachel, Alli-Cat, KT and Mary Miller at Kings Canyon Nation Park. volunteered for the position) is developing a “marketing plan “...whose primary goal is two-fold: First, to reach the largest possible number of our classmates. Second, to maximize the turnout...” The dates are 16-20 October 2002. The “centerpiece” is the AF-Notre Dame game. Pat NESBITT’s Embassy Suites with be “Social Central.” Frank, Paul and the rest of the committee are charging ahead. Details and events include a fun combination of town, Academy, and local activities. Paul encourages

input and feedback and pertinent communication be sent to him at (719) 567-0943 [Work] or (719) 481-2443 [Home]; or e-mail to Paul.Henry@jntf .osd.mil [Work] or PandTHenry@cs.com [Home], Also, updates are periodically entered onto the class website, atwww.aog-usafa.org/1967/ and/ or send them to Victoria LENNE at

digidezl@home.com.

Another consequence of 11 Sep has been the consolidation of power in the Presidency, arguably to a degree unknown since FDR. This has raised the level of concern of some concerned citizens, including at least one of our number. Ben LA ROSA has forwarded information that the Libertarian Party and some 100 other organizations have raised the issue that this

DUNCAN, Marty EGGERT, Tex FEHRENBACH, Dick FREY, Bill GEORGE, Ed GREENE, Bill GREGORY, John GRIFFIN, Denny HAAS, Ted HALLENBECK, Joe HEDRICK, Jim HOPPE, Skip JACKSON, Charlie KOLLENBERG, Rob LINSMAYER, Mac MCADORY, Jim MEYER, Art MOXON, Ken ORVIS, Jim PUEPPKE, Steve REID, Steve ROSEMAN, John RYDER, Buzz SAWYER, Walt SIGAFOOS, Bob SHUMWAY, Craig SQUIER, Dale STEPHENS, Dave STEWART, Zack STIDMON, Dan TEDFORD, Grant UHLS, Russ VORIS, and John WATKINS ABSENT, SIR! Dear .

classmates, we remember and honor you. In addition to remembering our own classmates, I call your attention to articles written from the Class of 1966 regarding the passing of Paul

STEIN. Paul was a true gentleman and loved the Academy very much. He will be sorely missed by many.

STARS TO PINSTRIPES DEPT: On a clear, crisp November day at Scott AFB, General Tony ROBERTSON traded in 4 stars to join the rank of Misters in the class. Classmates in attendance, included Charlie HOLLAND, Charlie COOLIDGE, Bobby FLOYD, Mike MOFFITT, and your Scribe. A

very sincere congratulations to Tony on his stellar career and for being such a personable leader and example for others to follow. Best wishes to you and your lovely Brenda as you transition to civilian life.

power vested in the government “... may be may be a threat to the Constitution and Americans’ fundamental liberties...” This newly formed “In Defense of Freedom” coalition demands that “...those who perpetrated but urge that any legislation (the terrorist) acts be held accountable should be considered "calmly and deliberately” to avoid trampling on the rights of innocent Americans.” For those of you who may have wondered “whatever happened to Tom —

BOETTCHER” -1 now have the answer, in the form of a letter from Tom and his wife, Pam Olson Vennerberg, at home in Tulsa, OK. They have two daughters, 12-year-old Lily and 14-year-old Evelyn. The girls are high achievers in athletics, academics and the arts. Pam writes news free-lance feature stories for the Tulsa World daily newspaper, while Tom, an attorney, is working on his third book. Great to hear from you folks thanks -

for letting us all catch up on you. I had occasion to return to the AFA in early December for a wrestling letter winners’ reunion. It was a fine time, with a number of us old grappiers most of whom had gone up a weight class or two receiving DV Nebraska dual wrestling meet; a mixer with treatment at the USAFA the team and coaches; a VIP tour of the Olympic Training Center at the old Ent AFB (the old/original NORAD complex now houses Olympic staff offices... talk about turning swords into plowshares); and finally a dinner of the returnees with Coach Wayne Baughman and staff. It was a great time, and just one of several such letter winners’ activities that have been held at the AFA for various sports. If any of you earned freshman numerals or varsity letters you really should contact your sports OPR (available on the AOG website) and find out about your next reunion. It is well worth your time and effort. And it is a nice and fun way to support the Academy, the teams, and the athletes. That’s about all for this issue folks because I just didn’t receive much for input this quarter. If you have a Holiday newsletter, or picture, or damn near anything else shoot it to me and I’ll see about getting it into print. —

—

Meanwhile

the very best wishes for 2002 to you all. Adios my friends

Vaya con Dios!

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY! YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT

WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED. CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

“This is No Cardboard Cutout!” From left are Heather Buono, President

George W. Bush, and Bruce Buono. IT’S WHO YOU KNOW DEPT: It should be apparent from the photo above that Bruce and Heather BUONO have some pull in Washington. Actually, the Buonos were touring the White House last July, when one of

those once-in-a-lifetime opportunities presented itself and, fortunately, they had a camera to record the event. After his Air Force career, Bruce became a high school teacher in New Jersey. Heather is currently on active duty and was deployed to Southwest Asia as of Bruce’s e-mail in November. Thanks for the photo and update, Bruce. HOLIDAY MAILBAG DEPT: For the stalwart ‘68 column groupies in Checkpoints Land, you should be pleased to know that classmates and many spouses provided the written wherewithal over the holidays to keep our ‘68 news flowing well into 2002. Thanks for your very gracious support! The one thing that would be helpful is for you to send me some current family photos. My stock is running dangerously low, and unless you want to see columns of photos featuring your Scribe petting furry

animals, you will need to send me some better material. For those who want to be my helpers,

and you know who you are, please send your actual photos via mail or e-mail versions of your photos in JPEG format.

For example, if Mike BOOTS, Clark GERHARDT, Bill WOOD, or Bill RADASKY would send an e-mail photo from their holiday newsletter,

that would fit the bill. Thanks! The first letter comes from our man on the hot seat, Charlie HOLLAND, who is currently serving as commander of our nation’s special operations forces and taking the war to Osama bin Laden’s crew in Afghanistan. Since much of what Charlie wrote is Top Secret, I am not permitted to divulge the contents of his remarks. (Scribe Note: The Top Secret stuff is not really true, but I thought I would throw it out there to see how many of you were really paying attention.) Actually, Charlie and Nancy had quite a year including an opportunity to spend their 28 th wedding 95

anniversary in Thailand.

Charlie and Nancy’s son, Chuck (‘99), and

Chuck’s wife, Sharon (‘98), are still assigned together in Colorado while youngest son, Justin, is in his senior year in high school and preparing for entry into MIT this fall.

unable to attend. Colleen, our prayers are with you for successful treatment and cure from your battle with cancer. Thanks, Bill, for the fantastic job you do for me each year in sending news from other classmates. THAT’S A WRAP DEPT: Please keep those cards, letters, E-Mails, and photos coming in. If you sent me a holiday newsletter without a photo,

please consider sending a photo so I can put it in the column. Ciao for Tim

now.

Lindsey Parris 616 King’s Cloister Circle Alexandria, VA 22302 Home: (703) 836-3604

Mmk4 It?

E-mail: 102177.1033@compuserve.com Percent members: 64

“Miles ofSmiles.

”

From left are Du, Brad, Mandy, and Margie Mrosla.

Du and Margie MROSLA checked in from their abode in Arvada, CO. After more than two and a half decades flying the right seat, Du finally and flies out of Chiupgraded to captain for Southwest Airlines last year ' cago Midway. Meanwhile, Margie is teaching I Grade at Parr Elementary School, and daughter Mandy graduated from college last May. Son Brad is still playing with his band, Bzornge, and is majoring in Music Industry Studies at the University of Colorado in Denver. (Scribe Note: Du did not translate what the band’s name means. So, if it’s something dirty, I want the Checkpoints Editor to know that it’s not my fault.) I received word from Mike NAVARRO that he is still flying for United out of Chicago and has moved to Elk River, MN. His son Michael fins

Spring should be creeping up on you by the time you read this, and I gentle, with preparations being made to enjoy the upcoming months of grand weather to their fullest. With the spring and Capistrano’s swallows comes the retirement trust the winter months have been kind and

of one of our stalwarts, Ron MARCOTTE, who moves into mufti on 1

April, after an extremely distinguished career culminating as Vice Commander, Air Mobility Command (Scott AFB). Too old to be a doughboy or GI, old enough to be a flyboy, and young enough to be a “Tali-whacker,” Ron readies for a second career with enthusiastic kudos and gratitude from his classmates. Demonstrating that the ’69 wellspring flows yet, that for every action there is an equilibrating one, Bugs FORSYTHE pinned on his second star in January. Congrats to Bugs on his continued success and contributions

ished his MBA at the University of Michigan last year and is currently

to the nation from his perch in the AF Reserves.

working for Morgan Stanley on Wall Street. Daughter Susan is working for Qwest in Denver and plans to marry in June. Mike indicated that Susan’s wedding and reception will be at the Broadmoor in Colorado Springs. To help defray expenses, Mike will be happy to accept chari-

where he is the CEO of CoolSystems, a company that produces a sports therapy product of great interest to all of us aging athletes, one that de-

table contributions to the “Father of the Bride Fund, c/o Mike NAVARRO, Reception Host and Chief Financial Officer.” I received a nice greeting card from John LONGENECKER and Joyce, his bride of more than a year. They are alive and well and living in Centreville, VA. One of our most traveled out-of-country classmates has planted roots and is enjoying his role as a teacher in the Virginia public school system. One of our former FBI guys, Jim DEFAZIO, has moved from Phoenix to North Carolina. Jim and Sherry’s new address is 5214 Downing Creek Drive, Charlotte, NC 28269. His newsletter was written as a poem and was extremely witty. All of you should write to Jim and ask him to send you a copy. (Scribe Note: This might cost you a few stamps, Jim.)

Tom OLIVER, formerly of PowerBar, writes from Northern California

livers both compression and cooling simultaneously to injured or repaired muscles, ligaments, tendons, etc. Sounds like many of our credit

cards, mine in particular, could have gone radioactive had this product (check out www.gameready.com or www.coolsystems.com) been on the market in the last decade! Tom and Marci and daughters Alexandra and Christina are enjoying the lifestyle in Berkeley, after surviving nicely the cultural shock of moving there from Texas. He is looking forward to the 35 th reunion, having been unable to attend our get-togethers since the 20 th but is looking for a get-together anytime, any place in the interim. ,

The AOG’s Sabre Society hosted a gathering at Arlington’s Army-Navy Club on the eve of USAFA’s annual drubbing of Navy. After a rousing address by our good Superintendent John DALLAGHER, with an introduction of equally rousing interest by the good AOG VP for Development Gary HOWE, certain of the ’69er celebrants gathered for a mug shot: Darrel WHITCOMB, Doug MANG, Scott SONNENBERG, H. OWNBY, Jeff SNYDER, Roy COPPINGER, Brad DEAUSTIN, John D, moi, and Bugs FORSYTHE.

“A Golden Reunion Golden, Colorado, That Is." From left are Katie and Bill Wood, DeeAnn and Bill Maywhort, Marie and Don Genna, Donna and Bill Sasz. I received a very nice letter and card from Bill WOOD. Bill talked of trips back to the Academy for football games and great tailgate parties —

sponsored by Carl and Debbie JANSSEN (Neal STARKEY, Dave “Sluggo” ALLEN, Scott JACKSON, and Larry Cole were there, too); of Bill finishing his soccer duties, but staying on for a better job at Raytheon; of special time with his second son, Rob, flying together for two hours around Puget Sound and using snowmobiles on Mount Baker; and of Marie GENNA’s successful efforts to put together their annual holiday brunch at the Briarwood Inn in Golden, CO with Katie and Bill, Marie and Don GENNA, Bill and DeeAnn MAYWHORT, and Bill and Donna SASZ. Bill also told me that Bob and Colleen DENNY usually attended the brunch, but Colleen has been undergoing treatment for cancer of the throat and was 96

Jeff, by the way, pole-vaulter supremo from the ’60s, has long been “unaccounted for,” and it is good to know that he is thriving and just down the road in Charlottesville, VA. Most of you have received the letter from John MARTIN in which he pledges matching funds for those joining the Sabre Society. Please know that Gary HOWE is the AOG’s main man for that program, and I urge you to contact him directly with any questions have regarding membership (719-472-0300 or may

you

Gary.Howe@USAFA.af.mil). A week after the Navy game, over sixty 69ers braved the harrowing air-

ways and highways and increased security everywhere, especially at USAFA, to see the Falcons notch another victory and to attend the mini “rejoin” at JD’s place. It was a grand and gala affair, on all accounts, highlighted perhaps by a photo-op of the gathered participants with Jim

SCOTT’s ring, which the Class recently reclaimed from its owner (an individual unconnected to the Academy, who had bought the ring in an estate sale and advertised it via E-Bay). The accompanying picture captures the moment for posterity, with attending class officers Terry BRADY, Steve EDELMAN, and Mike GOODE (among others) on the front row. I am sending an enlarged copy of this (or another similar) print with a letter to Jim’s mother. She is delighted with the recovery of the ring, its intended use in the Class Tree, and touched that the Class would wait to the “Esse” part assemble such a large quorum to honor Jim in this way

‘69 and ‘70 Graduates Fill Command Gaps

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of our class motto, I would suggest.

Round Up the Usual Suspects: ‘69 "Rejoin” at JD’s. Making national news in November on Peter Jennings’ evening program was our own A1MCCREE, and many of you have remarked you saw it. ABC (Dean Reynolds) interviewed A1 in his capacity as head of Altissimo! in Nashville, which markets martial music and about which you have read in these columns in the past. A1 was terrific, noted the

sharply increasing sales of and interest in his line of CDs due to the nationwide resurgence of patriotism, and left viewers with one extraordinarily memorable quote: “I would give it all back [profits from increased sales] to save one life.” As Don “Gobi” DESSERT commented, Al’s comment speaks for all of us, each in our own way. (Gobi, by the way, spotted

license plate down Nashville way proclaiming “To Be Not to Seem,” and believes it is the slogan of a school named Trevecca Nazarene College located there. Wonder if the school has heard of us?) a

In addition, host Bob Edwards of National Public Radio’s Morning Edi-

tion interviewed A1 on 30 October. The actual broadcast with the interview may still be available as a RealAudio file on the NPR website for

those interested in hearing it. Kit BUSCHING writes from Albuquerque, where he and Becky reside, that he and Doug MITCEIELL had a short get-together recently. “Father” Doug, that is, as Brother MITCEIELL is an ordained Catholic priest at Albuquerque’s Church of the Risen Savior, having entered the seminary seven years ago in the wake of his wife’s death. Has a full beard, and the

sparkle you remember in his eyes. As Kit suggests, old warriors never die, they just swing a mean rosary! Dave MUMME is still the mainstay pilot at NASA’s Johnson Space Center, and he and Susan still love the Houston area, especially with the new circumferential highway that has relieved at least some of Houston’s notorious traffic congestion. Dave is running more than ever, hitting a golf ball or two or three, and leaves the family’s tennis representation largely in Susan’s capable hands. Gerry BROWN is still working aviation matters for NASA headquarters in downtown D.C. and, patriot ever, has a cell phone number ending in “6969;” he and his Susan live in McLean, VA. Steve EDELMAN is passing through town here once a quarter or so on business.

Still a POAC denizen, Jon BEAR continues to wield a mean

racquetball racquet, and Jeff GRIME’s sweet golf swing generally finds him with a wad of dough in his pocket large enough to choke a horse. Somehow, Jeff and I took a detour through Dover, Delaware en route from Wallops Island at the southern end of Maryland’s Eastern Shore to Washington, DC last December. No one knows how it happened, though we believe that some unidentified, sinister force relocated the town in our intended path to give us the opportunity to see Ron LOVE; however, this does go to prove once again that the shortest distance between two points is always under construction. Jeff and Don RAKESTRAW are entrepreneuring up a storm with their company, Point One, as is Chuck VOLLMER with his, VII. For my part, I am holding out for either a five-year, $25 million contract to coach the Redskins or until I become so adept at writing Checkpoints that someone suggests I am a touch sexy, enough so to evoke the sound of zippers being unzipped, and decides to syndicate me nationally. Unfortunately, it looks like a long, long wait.

Happy New Year every day. Lindsey.

Visit the AOG Web Site:

This photo was sent to us in early January by Maj. Michael W. Gaal, ‘89,

executive officer to the vice commander ofAETC. AtrightisLt. Gen. John D. Hopper, ‘69, with Maj. Gen. Marvin J. Barry, ‘70, who at the time were the AETC commander and vice commander. General Hopper assumed command on 10 Nov and General Barry was activated on 19 Nov. General Hopper resumed his vice commander duties on 17 Dec when the newAETC commander took over, and General Barry returned to his alter life as an airline pilot and IMA to AETC. (Major Gaal noted that post 11 Sept, General Barry was running the Crisis Action Team in the Air Force Ops Center before being activated as AETC vice commander.) Even though his command was short-lived, General Hopper’s term as commander is only the second shortest on record for AETC. Maj. Gen. Glenn O. Barcus served as commander for a total of 25 days (1-25 July 1954).

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: 64

Well gang, it is 2 Jan ‘02 and I am recuperating from an overload of football games yesterday. It was great to see CU get their butt kicked by Oregon. Wish the Falcons had been playing somewhere during the bowl season, but a heartbreaking loss to CSU prevented that from happening. Frankly, this year’s team didn’t deserve to go to a bowl. Some mediocre teams drilled us, but wins over Army and Navy will make the off-season a little more

palatable. I was proud of the way the Falcons finished the

see the article about final game in the

sports section says a lot about our football program. Mark EWIG (Kristie) and I sat together for that last game against Utah. Fisher had suspended 11 players, including five starters, for missing curfew the previous week in Hawaii. When the sun slipped behind the stait got real cold! Mark dium, the temperature dropped about 15 degrees and I started to trek from the west side to the cadet (sunny) side of Falcon Stadium. We reached our destination just in time to see the Falcons season

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rally to grab a one-point lead late in the fourth quarter. Then we had to endure Utah marching relentlessly down the field to our ten-yard line for an easy chip shot field goal and the win. But as time expired, Utah got greedy and tried to run one more play before trying the gimme field goal. One of our doolie linebackers saved the day with a tackle at the goal line as time ran out and the final gun went off. Mark and I were and high-fiving and hugging brought back some fond memories —

www.aog-usafa.org

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showed we still have a little kid (cadet) left in us. Saw Bob MCKINNEY, Dave GAW, Mick DAVIE, and Jim MULFORD at the game. The Holiday Season saw many classmates host some great parties. Curt 97

and Carol EMERY had a “First Wine” Party at their gorgeous house. Rich DOWNING and I kept searching for the Ripple, but Marilyn and Nanci so what else is new! The told us we were embarrassing them DOWNINGs also had a great party at their beautiful home after we waxed Army for the fifth straight year! All USAFA ‘70 alumni in Colorado were —

invited

Jerry SHAW, Sean RAINTREE, Marty MARTIN, Ray BARLEBEN, Roger HILL, Jack MUELLER, Cookie VILLAREAL, Tony MARIETTA, Mike LYONS, Graham Smith, Bruce HARMON, Tooey EMERY, Bill PORTER, Larry VAUGHN, Mike TORREANO, Larry BUSH, Henry MITCHELL, Carl BANG, Bill HAMILL, Bill PORTER, and Bill RATHBUN. —

saw

Most men were with their significant others.

Hope I didn’t miss anyone!

we all deeply Getting this many 70 guys together was no easy feat appreciated Rich and Nanci showing us a great time. Jack and Margie —

MUELLER also had a super New Year’s Eve’s Eve party at their great house. All this revelry got to us and we were in bed by 2230 on New Year’s Eve. Saw Dave and Victoria PALANCHAR and Mike and Peggy LYONS at a

wedding. We had a good time catching up on our coming and goings. Dave continues to do great work as the Vice President of Operations at the non-profit El Pomar Foundation. Dr. Mike is still working for MITRE putting his Math degree to good use. I use that BS degree every time I have to screw in a light bulb or clean out the garbage disposal. All those hours on the slide rule is starting to really pay off! The RAUSCHKOLBs and EMERYs got to have dinner with Greg and Wendy MARTIN in early November. It was great to see Greg and Wendy; they were here for Corona and some much needed R&R. Greg is the right man for the job as CINCUSAFE good to know we have him in charge of our air forces in Europe during these difficult times. I am glad he got to take a day or two off, I saw his golf swing at the driving range and believe me it needs some work I have seen better swings on my porch! Jay BARRY has also been doing some great work for the Air Force by pulling some double duty. After pinning on his second star, Jay has held down posidons in the Pentagon and at AETC at Randolph. Here is a nice picture ofJay and Chris with their children. Please note that daughter Megan just scored an 800 on her Math SAT and is headed to MIT! Having been in the same squadron as Jay, it is intuitively obvious to the most casual observer that she gets her smarts —

donated more than $36K to support those less fortunate here in the Springs.

Way to go Jerry! Heard from Joe KUPKO (Diana) he is in England back on active duty as an ophthalmologist. His entry onto active duty was short-stopped by 911 and he was already in England paying some hefty prices with no income! It wasn’t a good deal to say the least. Joe will probably be the last guy in our class on active duty somebody will have to take care of him in an old folks home by the time he is eligible for retirement! Here are some short notes gathered from Christmas cards. By the time —

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you read this, Mike and Melissa HUBER should be settled in Geneva, Switzerland, and Steve and Nancy MACISAAC should be finished unloading boxes in Rio Rancho, NM. Ron and Pam KELLY celebrated two graduations in ‘01. Their daughter Erin graduated from James Madison, and son Sean graduated from high school and is headed to UVA. Rex LEVOY (Lynn) is working on his golf game. Pat and Carol COLLINS are enjoying a new home in Louisville. Their son Matt is attending Yale and almost qualified for the US Amateur in golf. Take some lessons Pat! The DESSERT’s are enjoying Florida and the SWANSON’s are ready to move to Colorado. Fran and Kathy BUCHAN are still enjoying Birmingham

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particularly Alabama’s win over Auburn. Tommy THOMPSON (Cookie) has discovered the secret to winning golf “play shorter courses”! Joe and Diane BURKE “continue to play golf as much as possible” yikes I didn’t even know Joe played! Here is a pix of the VERARDOs John and Sue are hanging in there in California. Tom RANDAZZA just underwent open heart surgery, but appears to be recovering well. Mike RYAN keeps sending me some great emails. He remains a lawyer in California. Mike said he is in touch with Bill OLDENBERG who is now living in Boise. —

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from Chris!

The Verardos in sunny California.

John LIPP and Janet continue to enjoy the good life in California. Their Christmas letter read like something off the Travel Channel. They visited Incline Village, the Bahamas, Pismo Beach! really neat places Marilyn and I take an occasional trip to Pueblo to check out the sunsets over the steel mill doesn’t quite stack up to Paradise Island but a some

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The Barry Clan Saw Mick and Jan DAVEY and Gregg POPOVICH after the Spurs trounced the Nuggets a few weeks ago in Denver. The Pop man looks good and has the Spurs playing some great ball—best start ever (18-4 atpress time). Erin is doing well and their children, Mick and Jill, were going to be home for the holidays. The DAVEYs are doing great—Mick is checking out in the A320 and Jan took the President at his word and is supporting the economy by “shopping and buying” according to Mick.

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sunset is a sunset and you do what you gotta do!

John and Janet enjoying the Good Life. I am exceeding my word limit—so if I left someone out I apologize. Hope

Mick, Lindsay, and Jan Davey Mega kudos to Jerry and Pam BRUNI for once again supporting the Colorado Springs’ Empty Stocking Fund. As I write this, the Bruni Foundation has 98

you all had a great Holiday Season and that the first few months ofthe NewYear find you in good cheer and health. CIASS FUND: That million-dollar donor hasn’t popped up, but I know he is out there. Until we hear from him, we are going to probably ask everyone to make another donation to the fund in the near future. We have about $300K, which is only about $1.2M short of our goal. Let’s go seven-oh! Think Spring—Adios Amigos!

Aldrich, Dick’s sister, got a memento of her brother, courtesy of Cass CASADA, who delivered the plaque to her. She would like to hear from

Paul D. Knott

any of you guys who knew Dick. If you want her e-dress or other contact

5565 Lantana Drive

information, please let me know. Later.

Colorado Springs, CO 80915 Home: (719) 570-9162

Work (719) 481-9400 E-mail: pknott@acninc.net Percent members: 57

Bob Bell 13 Pacific Ave.

ellliSrlSilw

Sinking Spring, PA 19608 (610) 678-3182/Fax: 678-4513 E-mail: rabell767@aol.com

Hope that everyone had a wonderful holiday. The Falcon football team avoided a losing record by ending this season with an improbable win

Percent members: 48

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the same way they ended last year’s.

My unscientific sampling was that all of you who made it to Reunion enjoyed yourselves. I know that I did! Several things stood out: the latenight conversations, the chance meetings at the Wyndham, the Army game, the memorial service. The Army team happened to be staying at the Wyndham, which made for some interesting comparisons between 1970’s version of football players and the 2001 variety. I am somewhat surprised that several of their nametags didn’t read “Abrams,” because, even out of pads they reminded me of tanks! Bob PETERMAN and his brother drove out from Virginia in Bob’s original ‘Vette. OK, second engine, third paint job, but still sweet. Ernie JENNINGS returned to Colorado for the first time since graduation. His bride, Barbara, got to meet some of the crazies he hung with. Their daughter seems to have inherited Dad’s athletic ability and Mom’s good nature. One of my doolie roomies, Bob BLACK, lives in the local area, but I did

Members of the Class of‘72 it is my sincere hope that you have all had auspicious beginning for a Happy New Year 2002. There was not a lot to report on during this go-around but contacts from five of you are refleeted here, so let’s get on with it. The first to come in was a note from Dan (Scro) SKOTTE (Nancy) with accompanying pictures of a flying event not many will achieve. Scro claims (and probably will not be challenged) that he is the very first USAF flight surgeon to ever fly in the Russian-built MIG-29. As part of his duty in the 173 rd FW at Kingsley Field, OR, he was deployed to Minsk, Poland for training with the Polish Air Force in May 2001. He also had the opportunity to participate in the USAFA flyby at the 13 October football rd game in a 173 FW F-15. Thanks, Scro for the continuing support of your news column! -

not know until Reunion that his bride, Ainslie, is Will SIMMONS’ sister.

Will has returned from the Great White North to the Houston area to work with NASA. Barry BRUNS has joined the retired ranks from the Nebraska Air Guard. Since Jim NANCE is back on flying status, his sculpture is an avocation, not a business. Frank MORGAN’S remarks were brief but wellsaid. Tom CURRY and Sammy TODD made sure that everyone got their class memorabilia, and made progress in selling off the class hats from the 20th. Harry DAVIS and his crew did an admirable job. With so many of these folks retiring in the Springs, we have a good start on 35. Bob BROWN stopped by the office in December. He and Cindy settled in the Monument area while they build a new home in Black Forest. Bob is presently working with Computer Science Corp in the Houston area; he hopes for a contract in Colorado to lessen the commute. He mentioned that Tom RACKLEY is working in Denver with the Transportation Expansion program (better known to locals as “T-Rex”) on 1-25 through Denver. If you have visited the Front Range since graduation, you know that the freeway between here and the Wyoming border is the same basic slab that we drove as cadets, with more than double the population to serve. T-Rex will add not only lanes and improve access to the freeway; they are adding a light rail system that eventually will connect the Tech Center to downtown and the airport. I had mentioned that Ed SVEUM has a unique gig in Georgia, as a mall Santa. Enclosed is photographic proof from his bride, Jonne. As she mentioned, “He is really enjoying his third year as Santa Claus. He always en-

joyed tormenting little children and now he gets paid to do it.

“

Dan Skotte in a Russian-built MIG-29. Next I got an e-mail from Jim PUTNAM (Linda) reporting on things in

his world since retiring from active duty service as the OC-ALC Inspector General at Tinker AFB, OK back in Dec 99. Starting right away with little break in the action, he went to work for Northrop Grumman on the B-2 program, including some time working logistics issues for the F/A-18 program at their El Segundo, CA factory. Then once the security clearances came

through, he was reassigned to the historic Palmdale AF Plant

42, now the B-2 factory, learning all aspects of the B-2 logistics business.

(Possibly by now he will have been able to rejoin the family, working out of company offices in Edmond, OK at the Tinker facility along with about 120 Northrop folks.) Jim mentions that Tom MILLER (Lynn) is also retired and living in Greeley, CO as well as at Silverthorne, CO close to the

skiing. Craig WESTON (Doris) is now a MGEN in the Pentagon toiling away as PEO for black (or least fairly dark) programs, living back in their house in Centreville, VA. Appreciate the brief update, Jim! Gary GRANT (Clarita) writes from Kirtland AFB, NM where he is currently the Vice Commander of the Air Force Inspection Agency, wrapping up his 30 years in Spring 02 and then looking for something else to do in the Albuquerque area. With daughters Jamie and Samantha settled in on the school front, and wife, Clarita, having grown fond of the southwest, he will likely prefer to send out the resumes in that area.... Gary relates a short anecdote involving the renowned BGEN (Ret) Robin Olds, known to all of us during our Academy days as Commandant of

Cadets

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still driving hard and going strong at almost 80 years young.

He spoke at the AFIA Safety Center about leadership, marveling the troops

“Yes, Virginia. The hair and beard are real." CHRISTMAS WISHES: Jerry SHOCKEY sent a nice card.

Sharon’s surgery went well; hopefully she’ll be able to visit the Springs soon. Rich and Chris RUSHENBERG stay busy in Omaha. They spend spare time

remodeling their home and keeping busy with two teenagers. ONE LAST NOTE: Last summer, I got involved with one of Dick GRAY’s

squadron buddies who was trying to get his old plaque from the FAC memorial to a family member. You responded magnificently, and BJ

with stories that we may not even have heard as cadets. The afternoon ceremony was then followed by a reception and partying well into the night, with General Olds never missing a beat. Even after all these years, Gary says, the contact with such a great man reaffirmed the great respect that must exist for the legacy he has created. Lastly, Gary asks, does anyone know where Barry SMITH is? Thank you for sending the news, Gary. Next to be delivered was the Christmas letter from Ed BISHOP (Shelley) with bits and pieces on the family and other related news. The two of them are getting heavy into the mountain bike scene, and Ed even sports the appropriate safety gear as he has now proven that old guys should not always be trying young guy things!

Son Blair had a chance to join the Bishops early in the year for a nice 99

their lives since making the big move from the “Wagon Boss house" to the new townhouse in Bozeman. There are lots of references to family issues that have seen a big change, as well as to some things that remain the same. One of them was the fact that AF beat NAVY (again) in the football arena (the fact that Dave’s twin brother Steve is a 72 USNA grad makes that win extra special for Dave). There were many other items to ponder as the year 2001 wound down, giving way to the uncertain beginnings of 2002. Thanks for an informative news update, Dave! Another note came from the office at the AOG reporting the plans for the upcoming reunion of our class, scheduled for 16-21 Oct 2002. If you do not remember the letter from Reunion Committee Chairman Ralph

ALLEN, things will be focused around the Antlers Adam’s Mark Hotel in downtown C-Springs. A great match-up is promised in the football game against Notre Dame. There is never enough time to get things of this magnitude planned as well as executed, so your help is requested and

The Bishops

trip to New Orleans, seeing all the traditional sites as well as one new one the D-Day Museum very highly recommended by both Shelley and Ed. Both are also still involved with the AF BEE (bio-environmental engineering) community, what with speaking engagements and assorted conferences making them have to travel to exotic destinations throughout the year. Ed now works a lot within the Fairfax office of Parsons, and has also been busy with the National Academy of Sciences Committee on Toxicology, again dealing with the travels and conference scene that results. Sounds like a lot for supposedly retired folks... but they will not likely stop any time soon and next year’s Christmas letter will probably need to be lengthened! Thanks, guys for the good stuff! Last to arrive in the mail was another good Christmas letter, this time from Dave McLAUGHLIN (Catherine) writing from their new townhouse in beautiful Bozeman, MT. Dave is teaching Public Communication at Montana State University, working in his eighth year there on an adjunct status with a year-to-year contract. Claims to be enjoying the environs of Bozeman, reminiscent of C-Springs in the old days, like when we were there back in ‘68 to 72... They live about 90 minutes from either entrance to Yellowstone, with great local skiing at Bridger Bowl and Big Sky. Dave reports on several “pilot types” and some other classmates as well. Bob REILMAN is with Skywest out of Denver. Tom BRUMLIK flies out of Atlanta (yet) with Delta. Jim STETTLER (Karen) is still at Fed Ex based in Memphis, and has a son flying for Piedmont. Bruce (Puissegur) ABEL (Linda) has returned to the D.C. area from Hawaii, actually living in Crofton, MD looking at a second career (consulting?) as a retired AF lawyer. John ALLISON (Julia) works in metallurgy with Ford and is still in on their list

Ann Arbor, MI.

Mark EWING (Joanne) still lives in Lawrence, KS and

continues to teach Mechanical Engineering at Kansas University. Pat GARVEY (Jane) is retired now from the AF and works in business devel-

opment for Boeing in the D.C. area. Ed MILLER (Diane) has now moved to Copley, OH to become “Executive Director of the Rubber Division of

the American Chemical Society”. Dave also reports that Ed’s wife, Diane, was one of the cadets at New York’s RPI where he had taught AFROTC in ‘79-‘82, meeting Ed a fewyears later. Greg RIGGS (Jan) retired to Austin, TX looking (not too hard?) for another job... Jeff SILLS (Moira) still lives in the Ft. Worth area apparently still writing software for Lockheed. Mike BORYSEWICZ (Laurie) joined American Airlines after a career with TWA, flying out of St. Louis, MO as a result of that merger.

greatly appreciated. And lastly, as it relates to the above note about reunion activities, by now many of you already know of the recent loss of our beloved classmate, Charlie HARRINGTON (Sheila) to pancreatic cancer. Charlie was the original volunteer to take on the planning duties of the reunion shortly after the last one finished in October ‘97, and was making great strides to get things underway for this one when he was struck with the devastating disease which ultimately took him from us all. Of course, all our best goes out to Sheila and the rest of the Harrington family as they attempt to cope with their very personal loss. We shall all miss a very dear friend and comrade in arms. God bless you, Charlie. Well class, that is all there is for this issue. Please continue to write when you can. Thank you again to each of the contributors to this edition

your input makes the column! F. P. A.

Dan O’ Hollaren

'LsT

19803 Derby St West Linn, OR 97068 Home: (503) 657-0299

Work: (503) 667-8554 E-mail: danoh73@attbi.com

SsEwsr#

SliiNTEMmW

Percent members: 42

Springtime in the Rockies.. .memories of days past for us all. As we who have hibernated throughout the winter begin to emerge into returning

sunlight, it’s encouraging to touch base with our classmates who have found so many varied careers since graduation and into retirement. Through the wonders of e-mail, a veritable flood of updates has come my way in the form of the world’s longest chain letter. That’s the good news! The bad news is I am severely limited in allotted space in our Class News section, so what you will see now is Part I. In the summer, you’ll get Part II. So much to say...so few lines of AOG-allotted print in which to say it. Let’s do it!

Thanks to Mike ARNETT first of all. With my December plea for updates, Mike’s reply also went to all of his known contacts. Wow, what a response! Mike and his bride, Pris, of 28+ years are staying super active in the Springs’. Pris is running the museum store at the Rock Ledge Ranch adjacent to the Garden of the Gods. Daughters Becca, Wendy and Debbie are, respectively, ‘

moved back home with granddaughter, a CSU coed, and still at home as a UCCS student. When he’s not gainfully employed with L-3 Communications, Mike’s making ruts in the Colorado red dirt with his Toyota Land

Cruisers, leading Bible Study classes with classmate BJ STANTON, serving th Squadron, and loads of other stuff. He continbe amazed at the changes in the Colorado Springs area since our days there. He passed on the following updates: Vic and Connie THUOTTE th are doing well in the Boston area, with son Chris the 9 squadron commander; Don PETTIT is with Lockmart in Northern Virginia supporting the Global Combat Support System; Bill ‘Trapper’ CARPENTER has returned to the nest as USAFA Director of Admissions; John KEESEE is filling the Air Force Chair at MIT, teaching satellite design; and Doug DICK is a school

as the AOG Associate for 9

ues to

From left are Laurie and Mike Borysewicz and Catherine and David

McLaughlin. Mike is one of two godfathers of Dave and Catherine’s kids.

(Tom

BRUMLIK is the other.) On the McLaughlin 2001 Downsized Christmas

Letter, there was a great comparison on the changes that have come into 100

principal in California. Thanks again, Mike! Now, strap in and hold on tight. I’m about to over-G my keyboard with updates. Sorry if I had to condense the outstanding responses I received. Okay, since RHIP...Lt Gen Norty and Suzie SCHWARTZ wrote from the land of Northern Lights that they spent Christmas at Clear AS, Alaska, the “last remote for uniformed personnel in the state. Memorable and cool”. Lt Gen Bruce ‘Orville’ WRIGHT is at Langley AFB as the ACC Vice with better half, Kerri, daughter Jackie and Nomex the Dog. Older daughter Jaina is a member of USAFA Class of 2004. Maj Gen ‘Mitch’ MITCHELL, DO for Space Command, resides in the ‘Springs’ with bride Sue, their 18year-old daughter out of high school and ‘finding herself’ and 13-yearold son with basketball and lacrosse squarely in the pipper. Mitch is busy with minor distractions such as Operations NOBLE EAGLE and ENDURING FREEDOM.

Great love story from Warren SMITH. As a ‘Brown Tide’ football player, he met the sister of a Doolie on a football trip. Twenty-five years later,

Peggy Jones became Mrs. Warren SMITH. “Life is Beautiful” for Warren. Johnny WHITAKER writes from Langley as ACC Director of Public Affairs. He will see two of his offspring graduating in May, a Texas Aggie and a Mississippi St. Bulldog, with both headed to the USAF. Passes on that Maj Gen (sel) Don WETEKAM is ACC Director of Logistics. Stalker REED wrote with several updates: Tom GRAYSON in Phoenix with America West, Jimmie AMOS and Alan KINBACK in Miami with American, Glen JOHNSTON flying Continental out of Houston, Ed WHITT jetting corporate VPs out of Las Vegas, A1NACKE and Stalker flying Delta from Atlanta,

low. Sam also made a decision around our class gift funds, commissioned th

Reunion, to be directed towards the Heritage Walk set up by the AOG. Our Class will be recognized with a plaque at the site. at our 25

Well, I am bingo on space. Thank you all for a tremendous response. As always, thank you to Ed PREBLE for maintaining our class web site. For those stories I was unable to include this time, look for them in Part II. I will do my best to include all of the updates as well. 30 th Reunion is just around the corner, so let’s get up for it! Take care and Check Six! AMF To be continued....

Joe Brezovic

Roy BASS with National from Las Vegas, Bob MANSON hauling packages

1209 Bayou Oaks Drive

with Fed Ex from Memphis, Mike DAVENPORT with United out of SFO,

Friendswood, TX 77546 Phone: (281) 482-6860

and Bill PATTERSON living in the SFO Bay area but flying with USAir out of Pittsburgh. More updates from Stalker: Steve HARMAN at Edwards AFB, Jay JABOUR still leading the F-22 SPO at Wright-Pat, and Joe KAHOE making everyone’s life miserable (just kidding!) as the ACC IG Team Chief. Joe spent 90 days at Tyndall boring holes in the sky on CAP missions supporting NOBLE EAGLE but is now back at Langley. On the civilian side, Jim ALMEIDA is in Nebraska as a CPA, Mark COFFMAN is doing the ophthalmologist thing in College Station, TX, Greg CHAPMAN is a radiologist in Houston, Steve EVANS with Boeing in Seattle, Dennis RENSEL practicing law in Virginia (aren’t there some jokes about Virginia lawyers?), Dick ULMER in Colorado, and Brad YOUNG engineering electrical utilities in Kentucky. Whew! Everyone still with me? 5-G pull coming with still more! Closing out with the Rebeleven corner, lots to report. Jim SCULLY and bride, Cari, have switched coasts and are now in Annapolis MD. Making it a family affair, Cari is now a flight attendant for Southwest. Bruce and Nancy BENNETT have returned from the Bogota Country Club, er, embassy assignment and are now at home in Oklahoma with daughter Keri. Mike SCHIEFER is still swimming upstream against the AF personnel bureaucracy in San Antonio as the DO at the AFPC. He has been doing some serious world travel with his ‘significant other’, spending time in Botswana. Son Matthew is a recent Vanderbilt grad after studying abroad

and visiting every country with a vowel in its name. He is working on a PhD, now, and asking dad math questions that he can’t answer! AJ RANFT is well established back in San Antonio with Bobbie. Daughter Erin graduated from the Aggie school and is off to grad school now. Daughter Casey was married in October and has settled in Houston. Bobbie still bounces

back to Austin to be with kids on a regular basis. John PARK and Lynda still hanging out in the D.C. area when they’re not following son Chris’ band. Son Josh and Sarah are in the Philly ‘burbs and Ben is at Virginia Tech. Pat ROONEY wrote from the San Antonio area that he and Joyce have become grandparents for the second time when son Sean and Ann had a little girl. Daughter Heather is buying houses and cars. Son Matt is another Aggie in the making when he’s not doing world tours. John ZWIEBEL has found a significant other, Kathi, to do some serious traveling with when he’s not tending to our Internet connections with Procket. Steve CRISTIANI and bride, Vicki, have now been in northern Virginia for 15 years. Steve’s practicing private enterprise in the Pentagon. Vicki is working through some health issues to keep her business going. Son

Jonathan is at U of Va. and Anthony, a middle schooler, has inherited the

singing voice in the family. The following classmates have provided me updates that will be the stars of Part II in the Summer issue. Mike HAY, Terry GRAYBEAL, Bob SCHINELLER, Kirk LILLY, Eric VOGEL, Dennis ‘Goose’ GEESAMAN, Jack CHRISTENSEN, Mark FERRIS, John ‘Spaceman’ PACE, Neil ‘Razz’ RASMUSSEN, Jim HEIRONOMUS, Tom BUTLER, Mike WENGER, Jeff KOHLER, Kent BUCHANAN, Mike TREMONTE, Grover STEIN, Randy O’DELL, Robert MARSH, Bill HEELY, Charlie CHILDRESS, Chuck BRAMMEIER, Bob ‘BG’ GILBERT, Mike MOSIER, Bob MUNSON, Steve LORENZ, Skip SANDERS, Dick HALFAST, John ROLSEN, Eric ANDERMANN, Mike NISHIMUTA, Fil THORN, Rod THIEL, Richard HAYES, Phil FAYE, Dick FICKES, Dale WILLIAMS, Bob PALING, Paul FREUND, John PRETZ, Sam TORREY, Drew SMITH, George TOTA, Joe SOVEY, John BARRY, Boyd LEASE, Bob EAMES, Paul GUTTMAN, Bill GILLIN, Rich FAZIO, Phil CHERRY, Tom REAM, Jeff BROWN, Mike ELARMON, Steve DRETAR. Barry SCHEINHOST, Jay BEARD, BJ STANTON, Charlie CLATTERBAUGH, Peter UNDERWOOD, Kirk SAMELSON, and Sam GRIER. Sam is seeking a volunteer for the next reunion in only one short year. It ought to be someone in the local area. More details to fol

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY! YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED. CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

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Percent members: 42

Hello Classmates around the World! I’m sure each of us hope that the other is doing well! It’s hard to realize that we’re already a quarter through 2002.. .and still sticking to the New Year’s resolutions? The mail I received is relayed to you below. I first acknowledge Dave DAILEY in D.C. for passing on the information he had received on the 9-11 at the Pentagon. And, Dave, thank you for continuing to pass on what you hear around that part of the country. Steve LENZI was the first e-mailer this quarter. Steve is in Hawaii, and doing grand by the sounds of the note. Steve writes that it’s more fun to work the control center as a contractor! He writes: “Yes, living in Honolulu 850 sq ft, 2Bdrm, 2Bth condo for only $280,000. The state and county --

government are terrible, taxes are miserable, and public school system force you to private school for quality education; but we like Hawaii so we put up with the nonsense. Being a government contractor has woes

somewhat insulated me from a very bad year for Hawaii. Also, I enjoy what I’m doing, love my customers, and get paid enough for now.” Steve admitted that he got married late (40) retired four years later with a one year old. “Now have two boys 6 & 9. Met my wife (Korean) on my third tour in Korea in 1987; got married in 1989 and PCSd to Hickam. —

Had two years prior enlisted time so I retired in 1993.” Steve looks forward to hearing from anyone coming thru the area. He did know that John COSARO was coming through on Guard business in November. I

hope they tagged up! The second e-mailer wrote in from Poland, where work is a 24-7 routine. Rick CLEAVELAND is an air attache in Warsaw, Poland. Been there since Feb 99...and will be there until May 2003. “Grov” and Gayle write

that they are doing well. “Air here is quite bad but we endure. Terrorist threat is near none but petty crime threat is large.” The third e-mailer happened to be going through his own records and noted that he’s not written some folks for a while. I lucked out and was on that list! Jack D. LONG seems to be working hard to have fun! Jack

writes that he has been a Captain on the MD-80 at DFW for the last four years and probably for the next seven years. He will hopefully finish his career in 10 years flying the Boeing 777. Some of his friends and family are concerned that he may not finish his career at all...since he has begun a major hobby. He aims to get the Rotorcraft-Gyroplane rating added Jack will be constructing an RAF2000 (Rotary Air Force, a Canadian company) gyroplane over the winter and hopes to be certified my next spring. It will be powered by a 160 hp Subaru engine and will be transported in an enclosed 18' cargo trailer. The fun part goes like this: “It was a 12-hour drive from DFW to the highest trailhead in the Pecos Wilderness east of Santa Fe. BarbyTwice, my aloof Tennessee walking horse, and I arrived this afternoon at this camp. Last year I discovered Long Canyon while riding BB2 in Colorado. This year I am camped at Jack’s Creek campground. I am at 8,900' elevato his flying license.

tion as I sit here in my famous ‘Mission Impossible’ van. [after a few more happenings] The trail continued steeply higher out of camp and we must have been over 10,000'. I quickly donned my oxygen mask and initiated

descent. After I put BB2 in the corral, I went out under the wide and starry

sky where it is so easy to talk with God. I have a lot for which to be thankful, and many people I care about who need prayers.” Postscript: “It is now 5 Nov and I have returned to the DFW area. seven

I rode BB2 for the last

days averaging six hours each day. The altitude was usually around

11,000 feet. There were lots of elk and deer, but few bulls or bucks. Besides myself, I know of only two other fellows, by the same name, who have such a knack for turning a pleasure outing into an adventure that returns well after dark and causes one to consider his fragile mortality. Once again BB2 thought she was going to die, and later she was sorry that she didn’t. But the bruises will heal on both of us soon enough.” Dave HOGLUND is in Seattle in the F-22 Weapon System Integration of the New Business & Technology Insertion. Of course he’s ever vigilant in 101

reading info, and found two grads in the same paragraph! .He summed it up and e-mailed it in: Jim PEFFLEY, the President of Old Crows in Windy City, was the main speaker at a San Antonio function. Also, at another luncheon, the Billy Mitchell Chapter of the AOC and the Alamo Chapter of the Armed Forces Communications & Electronics Association joined to host speaker Colonel James MASSARO, Vice Commander, Air Intelligence Agency, Lackland AFB. The colonel spoke about the Joint Task Force for Computer Network Operations. Joe KELLEY sent in a Christmas letter. Yep, he’s still in Wright Patterson (Ohio). Joe and Joy celebrated a wedding: their son Tim, and a now a daughter-in-law, on December 29. Tim graduated from college on Dec 14. Does the leap from milestone to milestone strum anyone else’s heartstrings? Tim is heading off to make a life working in the security side of computer science. I wonder what inspired him to follow that star? Joe and Joy are also proud of their daughter who started up a women’s but lacrosse team. Most of the players hadn’t seen the game before that didn’t stop them from being ranked 11 th in the nation! Sounds like a Mighty Ducks story in Lacrosse. (Joe wrote that idea!) Still in Papillion, NE, are Denny and Lin HUGHES. Denny works the CE part of Banking while Lin instructs at the College (Nursing). The son #2, Nathan, plans to marry in August! He will be their second son to marry. Does that make everyone feel.. .like time is going swiftly by? Bill VANHORN sent in a Christmas letter. The family of six live in Littleton, CO; except when Bill has to go Air Force. Recently, he had to go to AF HQ in Europe to work in the Crisis Action Team. But he got back home for the holidays. Bill likes to take advantage of the Colorado Mountains. He sent in two pictures of the family romping over some of the rocks. [Remember those days? Then again, some of you probably haven’t gone over those h ill s —

since SERE.] One of the fun tales is of his son, Hunter, who can match the best of any comedy. The ref failed to ensure that the face-off teams were placed appropriately, after the goal ends swapped, at the end of a half. Yes indeed. Hunter beat out the opponent going for the lacrosse ball.. .and yeah! a shot at the goalie...why is our goalie in there? After visiting around Europe, Bill is thankful that the family lives in the USA. Another family that’s not moved for a while (civilian pulling retirement check) but working for a living is John EPHLAND. You can find John, Cheryl with their two youngsters, Becca and Matthew, in Belton, MO. John still works on military airplane projects at Kohlman Systems Research. John is also the director of a high school age youth group, AWANA, and is strongly supported by the secretary, Cheryl. One of the group travels was to Chicago for the Bible Bowl Olympics. Youngsters from South Africa,

Japan and Canada contributed to the atmosphere of fellowship. Dan SURBER wrote in too with a picture of four great-looking children: Dave, Kate, and twins Anne and Amy. [Alas, readers, I can’t show a picture of the family unless you’re in it too!] The youngsters appear to be doing great, now that Dan is still living in Illinois and retired from the traveling of a military-man! One set of retired folks don’t sit in one place for long. Oh, the home address is still in Ohio. But Rich and Peg BOWMAN go from Dallas (Southeast USA, Texas) to Scotland (Northwest of London, England). Ah, the Old Course at St Andrews (the Mecca of golf). Rich may have a golf ball still on the roof of the Old Course Hotel! Or so Peg says the caddy said! They also were able to surprise Mom by bringing her along on a cruise around Puerto Rico and Nassau. On another venture, Peg needed fiber fix, so they overnighted in Bainbridge, NY. Of course friends in Connecticut, shipyards in Boston, and a Red Sox game all have special memories for the Rich and Peg “have bag will travel” team. Since they do travel the world, this letter puts the reader on notice that if you know the Bowman’s, they’re likely to call you from a local eatery! I’m still in Houston, Texas. At one time I would have been able to show you around the Johnson Space Center where I work. Unfortunately, since 9-11, the airports aren’t the only places that have tightened up security. I used to think it strange when I was in Russia when I couldn’t get into a facility without a pass! But now its here.. .and if you have to be dropped off because the vehicle has to with back the wife/son/daughter [our own son is 21 and daughter 16 so who gets to keep the car?], ya gotta walk or wait for the taxi-service which doesn’t work the off-nominal shift hours. Once you do get on, the parking lots close to the buildings have been roped off. Ahhhh, the U.S. world has changed indeed. But I can understand the concern here. This is the place hub / center of Space—as well as the Houston Mission Control Center of Space Station operations. Our office folks are on the comm loops with the crew to ensure that all goes well with the Human Adventure into Space. The writers of Deep Space 9 could have found some basis for their storylines from our lives in the control center! OK, OK, a small “some”! May each of us contribute something to the lives around you! Wishing all of you safe travel, and good health this year, and may each of you live long and prosper!

Jeff Hackett

jn3?

2610 E. Stottler Drive

Gilbert, AZ 85296 Home: (480) 558-8703

Work: (480) 988-9773 E-mail: jhackett75@home.com Percent members: 41

FREE AT LAST, FREE AT LAST, GOOD GOD ALMIGHTY, I’M FREE AT LAST. With apologies to Dr. King and to any of you that may still be

happily employed by or own stock in AT&T {nobody is happy about owning AT&T stock these days!), I joyfully report that my “sentence” in that asylum ended with the new year. In early January I assumed position as Program Manager for L3 Communications’ Link Simulation & Training Division support to the Air Force Warfighter Training Research Laboratory out at Williams Gateway Airport (formerly Williams Air Force Base). Incumbent, who has moved up and will be my boss, is a ‘67 grad and an absolutely great guy / brilliant business leader. Note the new work phone number and be prepared to hear a very, very happy “Hello”! Staying on my favorite subject (me!), you are hereby warned that this Fall’s issue of Checkpoints is destined to contain a picture of a Grandfatherly Class Scribe Tiffany or “Hurl Girl” as I’m calling her now (bad morning sickness) and Cam wasted no time after the wedding (see last column) in moving on to the advanced challenges/blessings of young married life. Interesting twist Cam has recently taken a job with AdvancePCS here in Scottsdale, a health improvement company whose Senior VP of Mail (prescription) Services is Phil PEARCE. (I’m sure there are a couple of‘76 and ‘77 grads from CS-09 who cringe at the thought of me as the father-in-law and Phil as the big boss at work.) -

AND FROM THE ANTHRAX-LESS USPS MAILBAG. (Don’t get me started on the media’s creating of the news!) Even though our collective memories are becoming more fragile, I’m pretty sure you regular readers could guess at least five of the seven Holiday cards I received (and I’m equally confident you could speculate which four-letter words I use when I don’t hear from the rest of you). Both of the Two-Stars included pictures and I swear, if they used good-looking families as the criteria for further promotion, both of these guys would be pinning on more stars tomorrow! Dale and Linda MEYERROSE are still in Colorado Springs but had just returned from North Carolina where they had attended the annual First Flight commemorative gala with Phil & Chris PEARCE (he’s everywhere!) and Kent & Carol TRAYLOR.

Bentley RAYBURN’s card was of course postmarked “Montgomery, AL” where he is serving as Commandant of Air War College and feeling very blessed as Maxwell is the closest Air Force Base to Chattanooga, TN where he and Debbi’s oldest, Moriah (Senior), and Micah (Freshman) are going to college.

Visit the AOG Web Site

www.aog-usafa.org 102

The Rayburn family at Micah’s high school graduation.

Speaking of Tennessee, as you know that’s where Dennis and Leslie BROOKS are now (near Knoxville); back closer to Dennis’ roots (AL) and daughter Becky who will graduate from college in May. I don’t know who is taking care of the President since Mark DONNELLY retired and surrendered his position as Air Force One’s Chief Pilot. Mark and Lucy have stayed on in Maryland as Mark is flying for Southwest Airlines out of BWI.

(I imagine he’s had to relearn what standard handling from ATC Controllers is all about!) It’s an unfortunate editorial rule which precludes me from including pictures of their good-looking kids, Scott (a Senior in high school) and Ann (a sophomore) trust me, they take after Lucy! The whole entourage will be making a local move (staying in Waldorf) in March. Chuck and Donna MOLZON are in second year of USAF retirement and living in the heart of Indiana. Chuck flies 727s for ATA out of Indianapo-

for Southwest and is living in Lake Geneva, WI with his wife, Beth, who is not coincidently a flight attendant with Southwest and is (fortunately) at least 10 years younger than Jack.” Dean self-reported the August 24 th birth of Rebecca Faith Cox at the National Naval Medical Center, Bethesda, MD. Mother, daughter, and dad are doing fine. ON THE MEDICAL FRONT. Just before the Holidays, John WOLTER had heart valve replacement surgery (long-standing problem that finally had deteriorated to the point that intervention was required). Unfortunately it took two surgeries to get everything back together but JT and Meg were back home by the end of the year. JT foresees a mountain of paperwork before he can get cleared to return to his duties as a Captain for United. Saw an e-mail from Jeff GRAVES in early October with update on his

lis while Donna chases after three kids (Laura 17, Neal -11, and Ryan 8) and a raft of activities of her own. Big news in the WILLIS Christmas letter was the news that Lisa (17) has received a Gymnastics Scholarship to Brigham Young University. As Wayne noted, “Dad ( and his wallet) is very, very pleased.” Picture was taken during a not-easy-to-coordinate but fantastic week at Lake Powell

son’s recovery from surgery on brain tumor, “Theron has been in good spirits and is progressing a little more each day. He attends the Children’s Healthcare of Atlanta Day Rehabilitation Program; catches their bus at 7:15 a.m. and gets back to the house around 4:30 p.m. He gets physical, occupational, and speech therapy there. After meeting with the doctors

last summer.

vember 9th. Then he’ll transition back to Southwest Dekalb High School.

and staff last week, it was determined that he would stay there until NoHe gets around very well and has been out to football games and movies.

He still has trouble with his short-term memory, but there has been some

progress.” Let’s all keep each other, our loved ones, and especially these folks in our prayers for strength and good health! THE SOCCER CONNECTION IN COLORADO.

I checked my senior

yearbook and confirmed that Mike GOYDEN did not play intercollegiate soccer for USAFA so how is it he’s now at the epicenter of youth soccer in CO? Mike’s the coach for Young Men and Women’s Soccer at Liberty High School (in Colo Spgs) and for one (or more?) high-powered recreational league teams. He’s had some kind of involvement (on his teams or across the field) with an amazing number of our classmates offspring including; his own daughter Kelly, Dave NOBEL’s son Joey, Mike O’SHEA’s daughter Kelly, Jim BURLING’s son Bobby, and Mike ROSEBUSH’S daughter Krista. The accolades, awards, and championships are too numerous to mention here but of special note is the fact that in four years of coaching, five of his players have gone on to one of the Service Academies. IN THE FIELD PROMOTION. World events dictated that the AF Space Command IG, Dick WEBBER, be deployed to a sandier region of the world, where he was (is?) acting as Assistant CAOC Director for Space and Infermation Warfare as part of Operation Enduring Freedom’s air war. So it was that his shiny new stars got pinned on a drab beige flight suit instead of a blue uniform jacket! -

The Willis “All-Athletic” Family A CLEAR CONNECTION

I’M GUESSING IT WAS SPRINT OR MCI.

Although I didn’t take notes and I don’t remember a lot of the details, I will note (and praise!) Mike BUCKLEY’s call to me in early November. He and Diane are still in Alaska and happy as can be; Mike’s still flying for Alaska Air on mostly intra-state routes (gets to sleep at home much more). WE’RE TOO OLD / STUBBORN FOR RULES SO THINK OF THESE AS GUIDELINES! Before I get into the e-mail inputs I’ll remind you that this column is intended to offer widest possible dissemination of news on

where you’re at, what you’re doing, and the interesting tidbits about your life / milestones you may have achieved. True, it’s not especially timely (worst case: five-month delay from input to publication) but it has a broad audience and, because it’s printed, it has a certain permanency to it. Please direct that kind of stuff to my USPS/e-mail or call/visit me. Things that are time-sensitive (e.g. medical situations, etc) and/or aren’t intended for the whole class should be disseminated through our webmaster, Jim CARLSON, or via an AOG Mail system message to the entire class. For the past several columns you’ve seen a lot of news that you otherwise wouldn’t have because Jim and I have put in the time to sort and crosspollinate your inputs but we’re not going to be able to continue giving it that kind of time (this quarter’s consolidated, formatted, and first-pass edited combined input turned into a 19-page MS Word document!). ELECTRONIC (BUT WONDERFULLY SINCERE) CHRISTMAS GREET-

INGS. Bill MURRAY sent his family’s Holiday wishes in a very informative / up-lifting e-mail from Hill AFB where he continues as the Director for Mature Aircraft. In fact one of Bill’s programs, putting “glass cockpits” in the T-38 fleet, is largely executed just down the street from my new office at Williams-Gateway Airport, so I’m hoping for a visit soon. Both of Bill and Judy’s girls were home for the Holiday; Evelyn from her junior year at Baylor with her newly enlisted USAF EMT boyfriend in tow (Bill did the swearing-in for him and his 800 classmates at Lackland in Nov), and Rosemary (who actually is living at home and working at Hill AFB Education Office) along with her boyfriend who will complete training at California Highway Patrol Academy in February. IF NOT “GRAND”, THEN WHAT MODIFIER SHOULD WE USE? How about “Deranged-”!? Here I am trying to get in touch with the Grandiather thing while Dean COX and Jack HUFFMAN are doing the (all too) “real” father thing!! (Separately, with their own wives of course.) Bill HUGHES reports that, “John Huffman was born on July 21st. Jack flies

Presiding official Lt. Gen. “Buzz" Moseley, pins on BGWebher’s Stars. The ceremony was accomplished on the Combined Air Operations Center (CAOC) floor during combat operations; as Dick wrote, “Can’t think

of a more appropriate place for a promotion!” Should also mention that although Mark BEESLEYhas remained in Colorado Springs (NORAD J-5, heavily involved in planning for the future of homeland defense); he did take a break on October 19 th to pin on his stars. BACK IN THE HOOD. Got a great e-mail from Scott HAMMOND after he, Lee COLBURN, and Steve HUSSEY hooked up for the USAFA-Wyoming football game. Since all three are in second marriages, he said “it was a chance for our newish brides to get a glimpse back into our twisted youth at USAFA... not sure if it was comforting or troubling for them to realize how similar their husbands were!” Scott’s living in Atlanta and flying for Northwest (but spending majority of airline time behind Flight Safety desk in Minneapolis). Steve’s in California working as a partner in a nationwide consulting firm. Lee’s in C-Springs working for EDS. Scott’s still active in the Georgia Air Guard, Lee retired from active duty after a career in fighters, and Steve retired from the reserves flying choppers. Saw "retired to Colorado Springs” e-mails from Jim BURLING and Jim EKEN. Mr. Burling reported that he’s hired on with local aerospace contractor, SCITOR (wasn’t that outfit in one or more of the James Bond movies?). Ekes was happily overdosing on USAFA athletics and summed it all up by saying, “Life is grand! Can’t wait for basketball season.” Kelley and Lucia BISHOP used their central location (Kansas) as a launching point for trip to Albuquerque in the Fall taking in the Balloon 103

Festival and a visit with Wayne and Amy WILLIS. Plan was to make the big circle over the Holidays with trip back to Albuquerque and back through Dallas to see Billy STEPHEN (who happens to be married to Kelley’s sister) who just made Captain with Southwest Airlines. Kelley warned me that it may soon come time for him to get some advice from those of us that have been through it as his daughter’s relationship with “jarhead” boyfriend is “looking serious.” One word Kelley, “elope”. SOME PEOPLE CAN BE SHAMED INTO WRITING / DOING THE RIGHT THING. John SCHERER didn’t want to leave us hanging with the meager mention from last column so he provided these additional insights: “we

retired from Scott AFB where I was Chief of the Commander’s Action Group. We’ve moved to Delavan, WI (close to where I grew up). I’m worka lot of fun. I recently talked to ing in the Dairy Distribution Business Bill HUGHES on the phone he’s a lawyer in Milwaukee.” Now, how about the rest of you shameless non-correspondents? Roy RICE wanted us to know that Bob GAMBRELL is maintaining that characteristic ‘75 sense of duty. Seems Roy and Jim CORRIGAN arranged a golf date in Birmingham, AL (Roy drove down from Huntsville and Jim —

—

came up from

Prattville); they had asked Bob (ROTC Det Commander at

the U of Alabama at Tuscaloosa) to join them but, “he already had plans to play on Monday and didn’t think it would set a good example for his

cadets if he made this a four day golf weekend.” I THINK I HEAR THE EDITOR’S RED PEN BEING UN-SHEATHED. You did good. We’re a skosh over the limit for length but keep 'em coming. In the meantime (and always) go find the ones you love most and give them a hug it’s later than you think! —

Ernie Woollard 216 E. Goettler St.

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: 48 Hello Friends, I hope you all had a wonderful holiday season spending quality time with both family and friends. Hopefully, even some of you were able to slip away from your daily grinds to hit the ski slopes out West or even cruise some “uncharted" waters in the Caribbean. Here at Scott we have

finally experienced our first snowfall of winter...peace and tranquility abound outside.. .However, inside the vaults of the US Transportation and Air Mobility Commands, the war machine is working more feverishly than The movements of soldiers, airmen, and sailors to the front lines and waters of Southwest Asia appear to be never ending. Every strategic airlift resource is used to the maximum extent possible. Aircrews and mission support personnel across the globe are performing at exceptional ever.

levels, maintaining a breathtaking pace that has not let up since 9-11.

Perhaps even more astonishing though are the many new places we are visiting. I think only former SAC-affiliated personnel could spell the names of some of those towns and countries...the required flight routings and procedures have truly tested the mettle of our Air Force professionals. Looking closer at the air mobility front, Lance CHRISTIAN and I battle daily over C5 and C17 allocation and apportionment (remember those terms from our PME days). It seems just when we come up with workable numbers for aircraft and aircrews, Lance jumps in to change the ROE... Truly though, the AMC execution of this global endeavor has fallen squarely on Bob NORMAN’s shoulders. His staff is responsible for all of the AMC flight planning, diplomatic clearance procurement, and the very difficult command and control of every mission. Not too far from Lance’s office, Mike FRICANO and Randy JOHNSON perform long-range computer program analysis of our processes and how my staff might be able to plan more effectively. So far, our stubby pencils, grease boards, and HP hand-held calculators are still holding their own (maybe some day computer analysis will replace our tried-and-true methods). Very fortunately, the working relationship between TACC and our Headquarters has been fantastic throughout the early months of the campaign. And, we’re even still on speaking terms with our “pals” at USTRANSCOM (though there are days when we would like to just turn the phones off). We must learn to pace ourselves during this War on Terror, for according to the President, we may be engaged in battle for quite

ation from Air Force Basic Training in San Antonio and we have visited

Columbia, MO several weekends for football and basketball games, in-

eluding the Air Force-Mizzou game in November. Thank you Tony PRZYBYSLAWSKI; your boys looked great at the opening ceremony for the Baylor-Mizzou football game. That B2 is quite a marvelous sight! The holiday cards arrived with updates from all around the country. First, a special thanks to Dan BEATTY and everyone else who helped make th our 25 reunion a resounding success. I know many of us were not able to attend, but speaking solely for those of us involved presently with milith

tary duties, we won’t have the same excuse in 2006 for the 30 (unless you are a general officer on your way to 33 years of service). My retirement date looks firm: July 1,2004 (that is if Stop-Loss is still in effect); I’m all set to pencil in that date in 2006 for another trip to Colorado Springs.

George “Bud” STUDOR and family are doing well in Houston, TX. George continues to work on Space Shuttle projects, and this past year he was able to travel extensively around the country with Mary and the kids. John BOWEN and family are also doing well in Texas at Flower Mound. John has completed his upgrade to captain (with American?), and it’s certainly a good thing according to Pam, as daughter Katie is now attending SMU. John reports Jimmy DEAUX has also completed upgrade with Fed Ex, while Andy PROBERT has taken early retirement from Wright Labs to pursue a bit of corporate flying. Bill CAROLAN has gone back to flying the C141 out of March ARB. He was able to take a few months away from the Boeing C17 program for requalification at Altus. The Carolan family is doing well in southern California; Bill’s wife Jackie is slowly but surely recovering from knee surgery; and it appears their son Ryan may be heading to the Academy as a member of the Class of 2006. Terry and Karen NEWTON are also doing fine in Monument, CO. Terry has traveled to Indonesia on business this past year, and Karen’s tennis game is almost ready for the WTA. They are proud supporters of education programs at Colorado State and Clemson University. Kim and Laurie WEBER had a great time at the reunion, as did Craig and Jill PUZ. The Webers are enjoying life in Northern California, while the Puz’s are always on the go in the D.C. area. Craig is back at work in the Pentagon working in the Space Operations Division supporting our Homeland Defense Program. Also at the Pentagon are Harrison andTricia FREER. Bob NORMAN reports that Harrison is “just eating it up” as a new

“Beltway Bandit.”

Bob also has seen Mike DELPINTO and Bob

DEBLANC roaming the Illinois cornfields. I just received a card from Dave and Kimberly MCELWEE. Dave is still enjoying the short hauls with Southwest Airlines while Kimberly continues as the Chief Nurse at the Scott Hospital. They live just across the river over in Clayton, MO. They are St Louis Ram season ticket holders, not sure about their Super Bowl plans yet. Pam and I hope to have dinner

with them in the near future. Now here’s one for the Believe It or Not column: Jeff and Connie BECKER

the proud PARENTS 1 st Time Parents of a bouncing baby girl, Hannah Margaret, born August 2, 2001! However, it was reported at the reunion that they are not the most recently blessed (please advise). OverIncirlik AB, Turkey, seas, at one of our most favorite enroute locations are

—

Marc FELMAN has assumed wing commander duties. I’ll have to keep this in mind as I ask for extra MOG. Mike WORDEN is also at Incirlik

engaged in Northern Watch activities. Well, that’s another wrap on ‘76er updates. During the past several months I have contemplated relinquishing the scribe responsibility, but for the time being have decided to continue. We’ll just have to see how the War on Terror progresses. Please keep sending those updates; give me a call or drop me an e-mail; pictures are treasured commodities. For those of you trying to reach me at my AOL address, please use the af.mil address instead. My in-home capability has been superceded by HCCBT

(Home Computer Controlled by Teenager). Until next time, continue to reach for the stars...keep your head out of the clouds and don’t let the little things get you down.

Fly Safe, ERNIE. John J “Lou” Michels, Jr.

2“—1

5107 Juglan Court

Ww $

Centreville, VA 22020 H: (703) 802-6611 W: (703) 712-5350 Fax: (703) 712-5050

E-Mail: jjmichel@mwbb.com Percent members: 40

sometime to come. When not in the office, Team AMC still tries to get in some R&R. Bob NORMAN continues to ride his bike despite the cooler temperatures, Lance CHRISTIAN was able to take in a Packer game up in Green Bay

(Cheesehead pictures conspicuously missing); while Mike FRICANO has escaped to several conferences and was one of the few from Scott who attended our 25th reunion. As for me, despite the grueling schedule in the contingency vault, Pam and I were able to attend our daughter’s gradu 104

GOOD RIDDANCE: I hope this finds everyone well recovered from the holidays with credit card balances already paid down. I, for one, am more than happy to see the end of2001, which was not exactly a Stanley Kubrick kind of year. From the ignominious departure of our former Commandern-Chief to the horrific events of September 11 and beyond, 2001, the first year of the new millenium, was one to forget.

PICKING UP WHERE WE LEFT OFF: Thanks to a glut of correspondence

picking up the pieces from last quarter’s column. Duff MUIR (Mary) fired off a message from northern California reporting that he is still flying the 747 for UAL out of Denver and seeing a lot of people in his rounds. Among them was Mike SMITH (Susan), who also works for United and lives in Goldsboro, NC. Mike also flies KCs at Seymour Johnson for the Reserve. Mike and Susan have four kids, the oldest is at the Merchant over the summer, I am still

Marine Academy “looking for a ship” (great book by John McPhee).

Speaking of Seymour, Duff talked to Mindy HERD in September. John is working at Seymour as the LG, but was hoping to retire. That retirement, like mine is on hold right now, given recent events. John and

Mindy’s oldest son Nathan is spending the year at the USAFA Prep School where he spent an exciting fall restricted to base. According to Duff, according to John, even the public schools on base required kids to be bussed in from a local mall outside the gate. Duff bumped into Quay SNYDER (Beth) at the Aviation Medical Advisory Service in Denver. Quay is still working in the medical certification business for most of the airline unions, commuting from Monument and flying sailplanes in his free time. Duff’s comment was that, “Quay looks great, the way I think a doctor should. Probably eats healthy, and all of that.” I definitely need to get started on the “and all of that”. Thanks for the message, Duff. SHORT BURSTS: Ira MALTZ (Claudia) dropped me an e-mail with just enough information for an entry in this quarter’s column. Ira is working at Hanscom supporting Electronic Security Command projects there. Stu ALEXANDER (Betsey) wrote from Raleigh, NC where he is working with IBM as an “18-year sales/sales executive/business development guy working with a project engineering division.” Sounds too complicated for this political science major, that’s for sure. Stu is putting in his bid for newest Dad in the Class as Betsey should have delivered their seventh child at this writing. Stu’s oldest is 22, in Army ROTC at North Carolina State and headed for Special Forces after graduation. Good luck with the oldest and the youngest, Stu and thanks for the update. Toby NICHOLS wrote from the Twin Cities to tell me he had written me a Christmas card but had forgotten my address. He’s also a grandfather and looks like one. Maybe all these factors are related, but what else can I expect from a former roommate? Toby pushes metal for Northwest and graciously noted that he saw my father at a Vikings game when Minnesota retired the jersey of one of my Dad’s offensive linemen. Hope your future is better than that of the Vikes, Toby. I got a correspondence chain from Bill RHODEN (Vicky) and Dan VANALSTINE (Paula) concerning the reunion. Bill was the last reunion chair and is checking in with the AOG on the next round this fall. He works for Pratt & Whitney in Connecticut. Dan continues to work for KPMG as a Managing Director down at lovely Dahlgren, VA. Steve CAREY (Charlotte) has finished up his stint at RAND and is now the Chief of the Commander’s Action Group at USAFE. He and Charlotte are living in a little farmhouse about 10 minutes from Ramstein and loving Germany. Rocky VILLAFANE (Janet) caught me on CNN with Paula Zahn discussing the anthrax vaccine cases and sent me a short e-mail. Rocky is Captain on the 737 out of Orlando and still commanding the 301 RQS at Patrick. Hope you haven’t deployed yet Rocky, and thanks. Mallard and Judy TURNER dropped me a quick line following Septemher 11 to say hello. Rick is living in Columbus, OH following his medical retirement where at least he gets to watch some decent football. Steve SCHWALBE (Ingrid) sent me his annual Christmas book describing his travels and work as the attache to Jordan. They are looking to head back to the States this year, but based on the impressive list of activities and travel Steve has been engaged in, why bother? Thanks for the updates Steve and our best wishes for you over there. Roger PAULSON dropped Chicago to let me know that he has completed law school

me a note from

at the University of Cincinnati and has now joined the ranks of pilot lawyers. Congrats Roger. I know it was a long haul. Just hope law school didn’t kill anymore brain cells than necessary. Finally, I feel compelled to report the retirement of the Class’s most pro-

lific author, Doug BEASON (Cindy) from his post at Kirtland heading up directed energy programs for the Air Force. High roller that he is, Doug got General Fogleman to officiate. Congratulations Doug and nothing but the best wishes for your future endeavors. NAVY GAME REUNION: As is my practice, I headed off to FedEx Field to watch the Air Force join the long line of teams that humiliated the Midshipmen this year. As also is my practice, I dragged along Lynn SCOTT (Cynthia) and my kids for the event. This was the first service academy game following the terrorist attack and it was a particularly moving spectacle. Lynn and I bumped into a few miscreants at the game, two of whom are pictured here. From left are Lynn, Steve “Heavy” WITTMAN (Betsey), TC JONES and your humble narrator. Heavy is the Sales Manager for Proctor & Gamble’s Fabric Conditioner business, which is now an international operation. He traveled to Brussels, London and Frankfurt in the past year and said that it brought back memories of his travel as a T41 driver out of McGuire. Yeah, I’m sure it was exactly the same except that you got to eat real food on the airplane as opposed to a box lunch and

your accommodations in Europe were probably a litde better than the contract quarters in Rhein Main and Mildenhall! Steve’s oldest (out of eight) son graduated from college this spring and is now working with P&G. He and Betsey have another one in college, a senior in high school, a freshman in high school, a seventh grader, a fifth grader, a kindergartner and a three-year old. I tracked Steve down by his cell phone number at the stadium, which had us waving across hundreds of people before we were finally able to touch base. TC, as you can tell from the photograph, is a one star with the wonderfully detailed title of “Deputy Director of Programs”. Basically, TC is buying bombs, a whole lot of bombs for all different kinds of airplanes. When I asked him how business was, he replied, “booming”. Well, I asked for that.

Dr. Scott is working at RAND back in his field of organizational psychology. Also at the game was Rich MOORE (Jeannie), who also works with Lynn at RAND. We had a great time at the game, and following the game, and I look forward to doing it again this fall at the reunion. HASTA LA VISTA: Time to end another note to the field. I have now exhausted my available supply of information, so those of you with news please get it to me now. I hope to have additional information on the reunion by the spring column, but if you want your information in the next Checkpoints, please have it to me by the beginning of March. All the

best for the upcoming winter and dress warm. Be seeing you. (Editor’s note: If you would like to volunteer as a reunion committee member to help organize activities, please contact Lou Michels.)

T. J. “Bahaska” Whitehair 1205 South view Drive

O’Fallon, IL 62269 (618) 632-1423

oily

E-mail: Bahaska@intertek.net Percent members: 38

Just Another Dark Age You Can Trust Your Car To The Man Who Wears The Star: Well, since it seems that you guys are

always asking me about who made general and

since I just browsed the 2001 Register of Graduates, here are some known and unknown generals:

Roger William “Rog” BURG Silvanus Taco “Taco” GILBERT, III Stephen Michael “Goldy” GOLDFEIN Edward Augustus “Black Knight” RICE, Jr. Stephen Thomas “Sarge” SARGEANT Glenn Fielding “Hobbit” SPEARS If you all recall, I predicted and class news abused a few of these (some, strike that, all were intuitively obvious to the most casual observer since our academy days of going on to bigger and better things). I’ve done some columns (hopefully in a humorous fashion) that have alluded to these fine, upstanding, classy individuals (PS I don’t want to get the generals too mad at me or I may be banned from the next reunion or find my VOQ room is six feet under the flatiron or something even more frightening rooming with them). However, I do have a request for 2002, that being a general or two from the “B” Squadron prep school ranks -

best guess HD PHILLIPS or Paul VALOVCIN. Remember that I predicted a CLASS OF STARS. It’s Robot Fighting Time: Scott “Ferg” FERGUSON dropped me an email on the latest fighting techniques or metal menacing mayhem. It seems that Scott and Dave “Norad” NORRIS in May 2001 participated in a Battlebots competition in San Francisco (all hots there are pansies however). Dave and Scott, while working for Microsoft in Redmond, WA and with little else to do but fight the Justice Department over little things like anti-trust violations, built and competed robots. Dave founded Team WhoopAss with a hot named “Caliban” and Scott worked with a couple of Microsoft buddies to enter “HexaDecimator”. Dave was defeated in

105

the preliminary rounds by C1C Daniel Eastman who built “Something Must Die” as an AFA engineering class project. Whatever happened to the little wood contraptions that AFA engineering students used to run for distance down the halls. Meanwhile, HexaDecimator although losing to the eventual winner in the semis, won the heavyweight rumble. You know guys, that if you hadn’t used the Algol computer language to program your robots, you might have won. Drive-By: Scott FERGUSON also, in his spare time, co-drives with Tim Paterson (original author of MS-DOS) in the SCCA ProRally Series. They are ranked #7 in the standings. When did we get car privileges? He also notes his vacationing in China and paragliding exploits.

Yes Scott, re-

tirement is a bitch! Photo Op: Below you’ll notice my favorite kind of column one of pictures, not of my ramblings. So, pictured below is Ken “Notso” CHARPIE, -

American Airlines Capt Chic Burlingame (USNR-Ret) and I were to attend that game together. He’s a USNA Grad (71) and a life member of their athletic association. This afforded him great seats (50 yard line), in the heart of Navy section of course. How could I resist not sitting in that great location and yelling “Go Air Force” around all those retired Navy big-wigs. Chic died Sept 11, 2001 while Captain of AA Flight 77. I planned to call I never made the call while shocked as events

him that very morning.

unfolded on TV I learned later of the fate of Flight 77. I went to the game on October 6th with a classmate of Chic’s. We sat in those seats. The stadium was eerily empty compared to the sell-out crowds of the past. The AOG tent was nowhere to be found. The Blue and Silver cheering section was nondiscernable. We toasted Chic many times. AFA won the game, but neither team had its heart in it. Nor did I. But I yelled for USAFA anyway; Chic would have had it no other way!

Jr. with son, Kenneth, a tank driver in the Army Guard and Kerry who’s learning to be a nuclear power plant operator in the Navy. Hey Ken, only a

into a brewpub in Ellicottville, NY yesterday where my wife and daughter

few more children and you’ll have covered all the services.

were

News from Around the World. From Paul SCHUBERT: Trash, I walked

waiting for me in a booth. Whose smiling face do I see above their heads on the wall our classmate, Bill GREGORY. It turns out his in-laws live around there, close to HolidayValley ski resort, but pretty much in the middle of nowhere, south of Buffalo and north of the Pennsylvania border. There’s a guy who hangs out there in an AF sweatshirt who claims to have been a pilot during Korea that Bill may have heard of— Norm Cook. You can’t get away from your classmates, can you? When I saw Bill, I thought of you and thought I’d get you this bit of news. Given that Bill was an astronaut, he’s probably on more than one public wall other than Ellicottville. (Schubs, I think I saw him on the Post Office bulletin board.) —

I don’t work for Bank One anymore, nor does my new wife. That is where

Chicago and NBD, our part of the bank by infidels and we were involved in a rather major bank train wreck in the State of Ohio. My wife now works for Key and I do more entrepreneurial stuff. I also am spending way too much time doing Re-

we met. After the merger w/lst

was taken over

serve stuff. I’m next in line to become LOD for our unit here in northeast-

Congratulations: Scott HOLLISTER’S daughter Jill is taking the marriage plunge sometime in June 2002. Not to a cadet I hope! You All Come Back Now, You Hear: To all the guys finding themselves on the front line in the war against terrorism, press on, kick ass, and come home safe. Please remember Bahaska’s top ten of war as we know it: don’t clear caves without it 1. Laser designation -

2. Visit the newTora Bora plains on you next vacation

3. Air power can win wars, or at least make it uninhabitable for years 4. Clearing mines can only be done with food drops. PS

Stay on the

concrete! 5. Play Taliban bingo

B-52, F-16, B-l, A-10, etc. everyday

6. Don’t take your stereo (you don’t have privileges anyway) and the

Taliban frown on it 7. If you have to bail out of your B-2, do so in the warm waters of the Indian Ocean then paddle to Sweden like Yossarian does -

8. When in doubt, send in the Marines 9. Remember, your planes have been contracted by the government using the lowest bidder concept 10. And finally, paint this name on your aircraft, “Leper Colony” for surely, you’ll get every navigator who can’t find the men’s room, every bombardier who can’t hit his plate with his fork, and everyone with a penchant for head colds! Quote of the Day: “From this day to the ending of the World, we in it shall be remembered...we band of brothers” aka Henry V by William Shakespeare.

Bahasha Sends

Mike Ashley Route 2, Box 36E

Charles Town, WV 25414 Home: (304) 728-0274

E-mail: trash79@adelphia.net Percent members: 37

ern Ohio. That would mean I’d run Academy recruiting for 1 /3 of the state. Actually, I think KOECHEL was LOD here when he lived on the west side of Cleveland. After working for the USAF, Merrill Lynch, ABN Amro (a huge Dutch bank) and Bank One, I’m pretty burned out on big organizations. I’d like to start my own consulting/law/investment firm here. Note from Trash: Paul attended the Navy game, but we didn’t get together. Next year at West Point, Paul. I know you’ll be there. And of course the boys from Atlanta will make the journey! More News from Around the World. From John and Kathy SUSALLA: I went skiing in Breck with Gary ROWER, Mike WATSON, and Steve BARNES (all in 12th Sqdn with me) in Feb (got a “kitchen pass” from Kathy) for a couple days. Gary has a condo at Breck with some other Delta guys. We’re going to try and start doing a 12th Sqdn gathering each year, Gary just got it going a little late this past year... Will let you know if anything “big” comes from future gatherings. Then Kathy and I went to Telluride in March with Mike GLENN (another ’79er). He’s still single, never taken the plunge. He’s doing the DC-9 capt job out of MSR along with a little ALPA work...

Had a nice time. Great snow and views and no crowds like the areas west of Denver... The Michigan ALOs are going to try and do our fall ALO meeting/trainingout in Colorado for the Utah game (Sep 14-16). Hopefully the airlift will work for the group. Kathy and I will try and go early (or stay late) and just hang around Colorado for a few days. If it wasn’t for the “commute” life we would like to live out west... May look at doing that in a few years as Michigan is getting a little old (but it sure is nice not having to worry about the commute gig). Will consider it after I’m done with this ALO gig. Pinned on LtCol last Oct and have to hang around for three years to retire at that. From France: Jeff JACKSON writes: Arrived in Paris 31/2 weeks ago and am now the Air Attache.

Remarried as ofjan 1st 2001 (terrific start to the

year), to LaMonte Miller who I met at the French Club of Albuquerque. LaMonte studied in Paris, and at one point was the au pair for the new

Air Attache some 20+ years ago. Since I was born in France, we are both

enjoying the circle of life that brought us back here together. Her sevenold-daughter, Rachel, will join us in Aug and go to a French school. My boys, Trevor (16) and Evan (12) will make their first visit for Christmas. Voila, cest la vie! From St. Louis: After five years of international travel with Boeing, I’m

pretty well homebound

have a 10-year- old in chemotherapy for leuke-

mia. We’re approaching the one-year survival mark and have four more to go. Debbie was diagnosed with Melanoma this summer and had sur-

only time will tell. gery to remove the cancer. Looks like they got it all Oldest boy is almost 14 and got selected for an amateur baseball team he’s a great athlete and this should give him something to focus on. We —

—

Greetings Class. Since becoming a class reporter I’ve had the privilege of hearing from many of you over the last couple of years. Writing the winter article has the advantage of seeing many of you at the various football games in the fall. I make an effort to attend the Pentagon Game the game against Army/Navy that is played on the East Coast. This year it was Navy at FedEx Field, the home of the Washington Redskins. —

106

pray for all you airline jocks each night that the airways will become safer for all involved. God Bless. Possum (AKA Scott and Debbie REYNOLDS Thanks Possum, from all of us airline jocks) From the Short-winded Dept. I work in USSPACECOM/J38, Strategic Ops Division. Cheers. Guy and Judy WILLS

—

Lost and Found, Mostly Lost: Joe MARQUARDT writes: I am a DC9 Captain for Northwest Airlines, and once again my timing was impeccable... I closed on my “Captain’s House” one month after the 911 event. So, at least I am doing my part for the economy (to the tune of $600,000). The only other ‘79er at NWA that I have news on is Joey HACKBARTH (he recently made Airbus Captain). That’s about it... if you could put in a note in the article... I am trying to locate Jeff ROBERTSON... heard a rumor he left Travis and went to the Midwest someplace. The AOG has no record of

him. [Consider it done, Joe.] From the Police Blotter: Shortly after 9-11, David C. WARD was picked up by authorities and began serving a 12-month sentence at the maximum security facility at USCINCPAC, Camp Smith, Hawaii. The warden has him serving as the CAT J3. Dave can be found residing at the Sub

Base at Pearl Harbor, talking to a volleyball he calls Wilson, and dream-

ing of the 747-400 back at United. [Hey guys, I don’t write this stuff, I print it as you send it!] From Mark and Betsy PIMENTEL: I was working at a microbrewery in Alexandria, the latest in a string of jobs as the spouse of an active-duty military member. Nice work if you can get it! We immediately moved to Colorado Springs from the D.C. area, and she’s got a good job with Northrup/Grumman/TASC here in the Springs. It pays the bills, and allowed me to take a job as a middle school (grades 6 through 8) math teacher at an independent school called the Colorado Springs School about three blocks from The Broadmoor. Both our kids attend the school. Kevan is a sophomore, playing tennis, basketball and (his true love) la-

Marissa is in 8th grade, playing volleyball and basketball at CSS and also playing fastpitch softball on a local club team. By some major crosse.

oversight on the part of the school’s administration, my contract was renewed again this year, so I continue “Committing Math” with some incredible young people. Betsy enjoys the flexibility at her job to help as an assistant coach at the same school with girl’s volleyball and basketball. Life is good! Here’s some extra fodder for the next Checkpoints. I’ve been “Bulltrying to keep tabs on the guys I graduated with from CS-13 dogs”. I’ve been pretty remiss in those duties over the last couple of years, tell them to straighten me out via e-mail at mnpimentel@aol.com. —

Last but Not Least, From Christine LUKASIK: Mark LUKASIK reports that

after having retired as an ALO in southwest Florida, his daughter (’05) has proved that she is a lot smarter than her father just after this first Prog! She makes it three generations at USAFA.... Luke’s uncle (’64), 79, and now ’05. And look where all that higher education has gotten our own LCWB man...

Oops! Common practice for me is to put all Checkpoints -related stuff into its own folder and go back near the deadline and use it in my update. I got a great email from Mark GARLOW in late summer and mis-

but the info is still good: “I meant to tell you four years ago that my son Ryan entered USAFA in the Class of 2001. He graduated last

placed it

—

May. He expects to go to UPT at Moody in Aug 02 after he suffers through a year casual status at Eglin (that’s actually a nice touch for him, that’s where we were stationed when he graduated from high school). You were correct that next-generation cadets can choose the same upperclass squadron as their parents. But Ryan went a step further this year and got the same room Ross LaTORRA and I had as seniors. For myself, I’m at the Pentagon working in OSD. I’ve been here two years; the first year was in SAF/AQ. Pondering retirement in ’02, like so many are.” Mark promised pictures, so I’m standing by. Christmas Updates. By the way, if you “forgot” to send me your annual and e-mail is just as Christmas/holiday letter, I’ll gladly accept it late good as snail mail when it comes to getting something from you. Please also put me on your mailing list if you haven’t done so yet. And if you’re one of those folks who promised yourself you’d grant us a once-everyten-years update, please follow through on that today. We’d love to hear from you! Paul (Ricki SMITH) SELVA sent another info-stuffed card. They are still busy at McChord, where Paul is the wing CC. Hiking, kayaking, quilting, and taking care of their dogs and cat take up whatever spare time they th may have. Oh, Paul picked-up the 80 C-17 from the factory and was met on the ramp by a surprise formation of his guys in BDUs all wearing Burger King crowns! Nice touch. Scott (Jan+2) CARROTHERS is as funny as ever with his Christmas let—

—

ter: "It doesn’t bother me that some of my classmates have now retired, or that some have children in the

Academy, or some have grandchildren.

I wasn’t phased a bit when the doctor told me my body doesn’t heal like

when I was 20 or 30,1 was just pleased to hear I didn’t need knee surgery!

No, it was when, after never needing glasses, the optometrist asked me if I wanted bifocals with or without lines that it slowly started to sink in on me that my

body might be starting to get ‘older,’ even though the rest of growing up.” Scott continues to keep busy juggling the schedules of his two sons as Jan’s medical practice continues to prosper. “For me resists

homebodies who don’t have much of a social life (or as someone else put we don’t have a social life, we have kids), we it stayed pretty busy again this year.” They did manage a few outings, including an Alaska cruise. —

independent owner of The Bagel Factory in Ft. Myers, FL! Randy FULLHART sent me an e-mail from the Great Northwest. But during editing I hit the delete key by mistake and erased his message. Damn technology! Thanks for the note Randy and please try again. And that’s it for another year. My thanks to Guy WILLS for sending out the e-mail blasts to everyone to send me info. I hope to see a big contingent at West Point next fall. I know Chip TAYLOR and the boys from Atlanta will make the trek. John DALLAS (john.dallas@arfts.ang.af.mil) is up next with the Spring article. I know by the time some of you read this, John will have his article on the way to print. So for those of you who miss it, Brian KOECHEL (bkoechel@aol.com) does the Summer and Bud

VASQUEZ (bud.vasquez@hansom.af.mil) the Fall. Or keep writing me at trash79@adelphia.net. Keep the emails coming. Mighty Fine! Don Myers 401 ChambrayHill

Peachtree City, GA 30269-4247

(770) 631-1429 E-mail: DMyers80@hotmail.com

Class Home Page: http://usafa80.tripod.com Percent members: 45

Change? I’m writing this just before the cadets will be coming back from Christmas break. I had the fortunate experience to chat with a few of them at the airport and in my town. Much has changed in their lives to correspond with what’s happening in the world; like turning the Academy into a base, rather than a tourist attraction. (While visiting the Zoo in autumn, I couldn’t even drive the road that runs along the back side of

the old dorm to Arnold Hall.) I heard the quality/quantity at Mitchell Hall was a big complaint, but that’s supposedly high on the list to fix.

(How can Mitch’s Mountain be any smaller than when we were there?) It seems a lot (most?) cadets do their own laundry, which makes the machines in town pretty busy on the weekends. I don’t know where they get the time for that! All but the four degrees get to choose to pay for (use) the laundry service. Oh, one firstie told me the Academy seems more like a leadership lab for the AOCs, rather than for the cadets. Finally, the smacks have no respect for the firsties. Does any of this sound a little familiar? By the way, all the cadets I spoke with had good attitudes and seemed ready to meet the current and future challenges.

The Carrothers clan bundled up in front of an Alaskan glacier.

Jerry (Wendy+4) CORBETT started out the year in school to be a captain on the MD-88 for Delta. “Being a captain is great, but being on Reserve again is not so great.” By late summer, he was asked to rejoin the Training Department as a B767 Captain Instructor. Both adults in the family went on a short cruise to celebrate Wendy’s 40 th and highly recommend the experience. After a family vacation, school started and Wendy accepted the role of Den Leader for Scott’s and Dustin’s Cub Scout Den, the Lightning Patrol. Peggy (DENNIS) (Bob) CARNAHAN, as you may remember, “retired” to a farm in Missouri. Bob’s with World Airways and Peggy survived the furloughs at American. “Mostly because of the nature of our jobs, we didn’t do much leisure travel this year. Instead, we’ve spent most of our time working on the Carnahan Cattle Company. Bob put in untold hours

building, clearing, and repairing fences on the property. Finally, in midJune, we acquired our first bunch of Black Angus cattle. We’re up to 35 cows and a bull, as well as 20 calves (some born on the property). It’s been an interesting process for me, since I have virtually no experience with livestock. They’re basically gentle animals, but get quite “enthusiastic” at feeding time. I’ve had to develop defensive tactics for not getting squashed at the feed troughs as they charge for the food. It’s been raining here for the last three days, which has turned everything into mud. Mix in the poop from 36 cattle, and you can picture the mess at feeding time. Needless to say, we do a lot of laundry.” 107

It’s a joy to get Dean (Carla+4) EISBERG’s annual missive as there is always room in our lives for a chuckle: They still live outside of Anchorage where Dean is a U.S. Customs agent and Carla home schools the kids: Dean to Jeff (7) and Jesse (4) in the tub: “When was the last time you two washed your hair?” Jeff: “I think it was the day after yesterday, Dad.”

She asked for a clean coffee can. Dean: “I’ll get you another coffee can from work.” Kim: “How can you get a can if you don’t drink coffee?” Dean: “The people I work with drink coffee.” Kim: “Are you allowed to drink coffee when you are supposed to be working?” Dean: “Yep.” Kim, employing feminine logic: “Dad, why don’t you pretend to drink coffee so you don’t have to work?” Dean: “I don’t like the taste of coffee.” Kim: “You could pour the coffee in the flower pot and not have to work.” Dean: “You’ll make a Kim (12) refinished a chest of drawers this summer.

good government employee, Kimmy.” Jesse “The Fire Hose” Eisberg, back in the advanced stages of #1 Potty Training: “No, me, Mom!” (Interpretation: I have the controls, Mom, stand back and let me handle my manly functions solo.) Jesse, following the 500-psi uncontrolled fire hose spray: “Sorry, Mom.” Kelly: “Mom, close the [car] window, I can see my breath.” Carla: “Does it look as bad as it smells?” (It’s a good thing God has a sense of humor.) Carla: “What do you want for Christmas?” Dean: “A moose call. They cost thirty bucks.” Carla: “Whaddya mean, every time the phone rings at 2 a.m. asking you to clean a road-kill moose off the highway, the call is free.” (You know you’re from Alaska when you have 10 favorite recipes

there are also folks like George (Nadine+2) MADSON, who was on terminal leave and is now back in the air with his E-4B squadron at Offutt. He had done all the pre-retirement stuff (awards, celebrations, luncheons, etc.), which included throwing the opening pitch at an Omaha Spikes baseball game. The best laid plans This has been a fun article to write as there has been a lot of humor from your end. Humor is part of our indomitable spirit. Keep up the good work, friends. Don ....

Dennis Ward 8300 Greentree Manor Lane

Fairfax Station, VA 22039-3214

(703)690-2741 E-mail: dennis.ward6@verizon.net Percent members: 47

Gone But Not Forgotten.

It’s with great sadness I have to report the

recent passing of our classmate Theophus DISMUKE in Ohio on Dec 8th.

Theo was a cadet in CS-15 and served on active duty until 1988. Further details were unavailable as this issue went to press; we extend our sympathies to Theo’s loved ones.

for road-kill moose.) Jeff, trying to describe a popular winter sport: “You know, Dad, when they use two snowboards to slide down the hill.” Dean: “Oh, you mean

skiing.” Jeff brought his public school speech teacher to tears as they were practicing the “L” sounds. The speech teacher held up a picture. Jeff was supposed to say out loud what was drawn on the card, emphasizing the “L” sound. When she held up a picture of a small dog with groomed curly hair, Jeff proudly identified the animal as “Eagle Bait.” When she finally stopped laughing, the teacher informed him that these small dogs in the Lower 48 were called poodles. Jeff: “Mom, are you the Easter Bunny?” Carla: “Yes, Jeff.” Jeff: “That’s OK, Mom, I don’t think I believe in the Easter Bunny.” Carla: “Kimmy and Kelly don’t either, but don’t say anything to Jesse.” Jeff, after a moment of silence: “Mom, does Dad know there’s no Easter Bunny?” Not-so-Little Tidbits. In one of the many aviation magazines I read, I found an article about the humanitarian effort to Afghanistan. The whole airdrop effort is staged out of Germany and none other than Bob ALARDICE is the mission commander. It’s a pretty amazing undertaking. Keep up the good work, Bob. I was waiting to get on the jump seat on a flight “over the pond” just before the holidays and none other than Paul L. SMITH was the captain of the Boeing 777. He’s in the Training Department in Atlanta and they make him take a flight every now and then to remember what it’s like flying the line. Oh, last issue I mentioned Brad DUTY was on one of my planes going to the Springs. We got our picture snapped, but I’d forgotten all about it until I had the film developed from the camera I take on trips. Well, here it is.

Don’t ya just love a guy in uniform? Reach Out XX. Before the last reunion, I used to highlight a few folks,

based on the currency dates in the Register ofGraduates that we have not heard from in a long while. (By the way, I’ve also noticed there are a lot of life and annual members that need to update your biographical info.) The idea is for you to let me know what these people have been up to. You have typically come through with info on at least one of these “lost” classmates. So, if you know something about the following, please pass this along to me/us: Robert G. LEBEAU, Curtiss D. LANZEL, Mary E. (LADEMAN) DIMMEL, Theodore J. KREUZER, Kenneth M. KONICKI, Donald F. KNAUF, and Walter K. KIKUGAWA. Epilogue. I’m sure the dust is settling again on many of your lives after the turbulent events last autumn. There are, as you’ve been reading and seeing on TV] some who will continue to be affected for a long while. And 108

Theo Dismuke Reunion Report. Hard to believe that not only have 20 years passed since we tossed our hats, but so has the event marking those two de-

cades. The "81 reunion was a huge success by every measure I can think of well attended, lucky with the weather, and graced with a Falcon football victory. Altogether 361 of our classmates showed up (better than 40% of graduates), along with another 200 guests. Considering that the th September 11 attacks prevented some from attending, it was an imp ressive turnout. The fevered pace of events might have challenged any other -

middle-aged group, but not our class, who activitied all day and forced the hotel bar to dip into its reserves each night.

Brian Repole, Brad Barber, Johnny Olivarria, Marty France, and Kelly Oberbillig. Hats off to the hundred or so who rose early Friday morning, shook off the effects of the previous night’s reception, and made it past multiple layers of USAFA security to the golf course for the class tournament. Although the pro shop did a brisk business in sweatshirts and winter golf gloves, there was really very little accumulation from the blowing snow and only a handful of cases of carts being turned over by the wind (you may remember that USAFA is sometimes a bit breezy). Heightened security in the wake of the terrorist attacks was a factor throughout the weekend and forced some modifications to the program, most notably cancellation of the open house on Friday. But trust me: after visiting the dorms with an AOC friend, I can report that, except for the jarring site of doolies surfing the Internet in their rooms, it’s all pretty much as you remember it. The class meeting Friday was held in F-l and it was with great pride that we watched classmates resist the overwhelming urge to fall instantly asleep immediately upon entering that room.

Land of the giants: Pat Lee, Matt Althouse, and Reggie Jones. Mike Leigh, Gregg Montijo, and Frank Cheesman. were a few invocations of “Slash 'em with a beak” from the ‘81

section in

the stands, but if anyone did “Womp 'em upside the head,” I didn’t hear it, which could be either a testament to our improved judgment or evidence of creeping fuddy-duddiness. Squadron parties followed at various establishments and homes around the Springs, and a great number returned for a final late-night get-together at the hotel. An assembly like this presented an ideal opportunity for your scribe to compile current information on literally hundreds of our classmates, providing grist for the Class News column for years to come. At least that’s what you’d think.

Unfortunately, note taking would have interfered with

my drinking a sacrifice I was unwilling to make and having both hands free for adult beverages in turn made recalling all those details after the fact just too great a challenge for me. Suffice it to say that there were a lot -

of people you might know there, they all have beautiful and talented kids,

Bud Rafferty, MarcLuiken, Bill Schoeneman, Dan Bell, and John Mason. The highlight for many was the graduate memorial ceremony on the The weather was cold and the skies gray, a fitting backdrop for that somber ceremony, and one that was particuterrazzo Friday afternoon.

larly poignant this year as we noted the passing of our classmates Dave GLADMAN and Bret HYDE.

and they’re all doing a lot of impressive and really interesting stuff. Indulge your scribe, however, for a brief, if perhaps obvious, reflection on the reunion. It was quite striking to see the assembled mass of our graduating class 20 years later and I marveled at the great variety of paths people have followed since we last walked down the ramp. Many are still doing great things in the Air Force, in all career fields. A number traded the blue suit for civilian clothes and have been equally successful tearing up the business world. I was particularly struck by conversations with two of our classmates who we all knew would be

general officers but who stepped

off the USAF fast track and into a calmer civilian life without a single regret. There were many whose great success has nothing to do with their

jobs but with who they are as people. Many have seen their greatest suecess as parents, some with seniors in college and others who are just welcoming their first born. There were some who seemed not to have aged a day since we were cadets and others whose exteriors showed evidence of living life to the fullest, and then some. Some have had difficult medical and personal struggles; others seem to have been perpetually smiled upon. I marveled at the varied success among this group, but it was also gratifying to see how strong, still, are the bonds, born of our shared experience, that tie this diverse group together. Gosh, I’m all dewy-eyed.

Karl Jagstadt and Hank Lane. The brisk Friday weather gave way to sunshine Saturday and we had a gorgeous fall day for football. A tailgate at Doolittle Hall preceded the game. (And aren’t tailgates, by definition, supposed to be held in the stadium parking lot? Maybe it’s just me.) This was the first Falcon home th and the long lines for security screening kept game after September 11 a lot of people out of the stadium for the first quarter, but eventually everyone got settled in for an exciting 24-13 victory over Wyoming. There ,

Marty France, Rich Cosgrove, and Chet Nowak. Many in our class worked hard over a lot of months to put the reunion together. I wasn’t one of that group so I don’t know all their names but I do know I can single out Randy WORRALL, our class vice president, for special recognition. Randy stepped into the leadership void, despite extensive professional commitments of his own, to do much of the organizing. I also know that in Colorado Springs, Jay SANTEE exhibited his usual initiative and dedication in coordinating things on that end. We owe a debt to them and the others I have not named.

Guillermo Balmaseda and Jesse Gossner; Dan Craft lurks in the back-

ground.

One reunion initiative that I missed while taking all those notes was a nifty souvenir offered by Blane “Doc” HOOK and Jan KOLM. They produced some retro parking stickers that look just like the ones we sported on our cadet cars “USAF Academy 81” in blue letters on a silver back-

109

ground. They make a great companion to the class crest decals we received at the reunion. Doc’s still got some left they’re three bucks each and proceeds go to the Red Cross Liberty Relief Fund. If you’re interested, e-mail Doc at blanehook@qwest.net to order. And some news... It was great to see Gregg MONTIJO at the reunion, and he wrote in December with the good news that he and Dusty SOMMERVILLE have been hired by jetBlue and embark for Miami and Airbus A320 first officer school in February. Dennis “Fish” PROKOPOWICZ has been with jetBlue since August and, demonstrating that class unity is alive and well, has been keeping Gregg and Dusty up to speed with company info and study materials. Sean BISHOP wasn’t able to make the reunion but staged a mini-conclave with fellow Tough 20 Trolls Garry CAVALLO and Ron SINCAVAGE on a Boston layover in November. Ron is with Draper labs doing what sounds like way cool work on remote control devices that crawl, swim and fly with precise navigation. Sean says Garry was with Nortel Networks and is pursuing some other business interests. Sean checked out some of the reunion photos on Rich TRENTMAN’s LfSAFA81.com and wonders who all those old people are. Pretty big talk from a guy who wouldn’t show his own weathered features -

at the reunion...

More Kids! Barney and Caren BEUCKER had even more to be grateful for than usual on Thanksgiving Day when they welcomed their strapping new baby David Joseph into the world. Congratulations to them both. In Niceville, FL, Dave and Shelley SCHOLL also welcomed a new baby boy earlier this year, just 12 months after his big brother arrived. Beef HADDAD and Jim AGEE took Dave aside for some confidential advice on how not to bring about another such event; at last report, Dave th was considering his options. Beef is commanding the 911 special ops MC-130 squadron at Duke Field; Jim commands a Guard F-15 squadron in Jacksonville. Pam (MCGINTY) SANDERS and husband Tom (‘80) recently moved back to the area; both Pam and Dave recently made 0-5 in the Reserves. Paul SULLIVAN lives down the street from Dave, flies for Delta and promotes USAFA as an Academy liaison officer. Thanks for the update, Scholl brother. Elsewhere in the Solar System... ‘81’s own Mike BLOOMFIELD is scheduled to command the space shuttle Atlantis on its 11-day mission to the international space station in April. At press time, the launch was

scheduled for April 4 th but check with NASA for the latest. This is Mike’s third shuttle mission and the first he’s commanded. Finally... got a post-reunion note from Con BRADY that really struck me and I thought was worth sharing. Con and Mary had planned to make the 20th but had to cancel at the last minute. He writes, “As Air Force was beating Wyoming, I was sent to ‘battle stations’ in an F-15. As I sat there in the cockpit contemplating sending 300 innocent people in an airliner to their deaths, I also thought about you guys and the two seats Mary and I had bought but were empty... Life is totally unpredictable.” If anything, that’s an understatement in these remarkable times. And Con’s experience and those of so many of our flying comrades suited up for similar grim missions is a reminder that the burdens some are asked to bear to secure our freedom come in many different forms. We appreciate the sacrifices. Hope this finds you and yours happy and well. ,

6329 Pheasant Valley Road

Dayton, OH 45424-7100 Home: (937) 236-9306/DSN: 785-0366 X3281

rattijm@mindspring.com http://usafa82.org

graduated from National War College last summer and is working in the J5 as the Japan desk officer. His wife, Terry, (MEYER, ‘80) is commander of the 33 rd IOS at Lackland, and they hope to get her an assignment to the Pentagon when her command tour is up. Commuting every three weeks or so (and lots of phone calls and e-mails) keeps the separation anxiety to a manageable level. Bob says Mike ISHERWOOD and several other classmates are also in the building, and that it’s a source of pride to look at the bottom of a DEPORD or MAJCOM SITREP and see that it was drafted by a classmate. Doug SPARKS sent a short message from Pittsburgh to let me know he’s a Guardsman with the New York Air National Guard, working as a Fighter Officer in the Battlestaff at the NEADS (Northeast Area Defense Sector) in Rome, NY. Scott ESHLEMAN checked in with a new e-mail address and said that he’s an MD-80 Captain for American, based in D.C. Scott

keeps in touch with his old roomie Paul TAYLOR, who is busier than ever doing the Boy Scout thing with his son Greg. Alex WHITE ordered some coins and gave me an update to boot. Alex separated after his initial AWACS tour at Tinker and went to med school at the University of Oklahoma. He’s now a dentist with his own practice near Mobile, AL. He’s been married to Mary for about eight years, and they have a two-year-old son (Alex III). Robin MAIDEN said hello from Atlanta where he’s a 767 driver working in the Chief Pilot’s office at Delta. John UNGATE also flies for Delta and introduced Robin to the ‘82 website. Robin felt it needed a little color, so he sent a couple pictures of him flying Delta’s restored TravelAir past the Statue of Liberty and the twin towers in

happier times. The pictures are on the website in the Oct-Dec 2001

news section

(see above).

Chris KAPELLAS is now the commander of the 51 st Ops Support Sq at Osan. He says it’s the busiest job in the Air Force, with a broad span of control six flights, everything from RAPCON to Intel. He also flies C- 12s there, and it’s an extra bonus to fly again as he slipped some disks in his neck during his tour as a T-38 IP at Sheppard. Doug SANDER said hello from Houston where he’s a GS-14 working for NASA as the International -

Space Station payload operations program manager. He got married in 1998, and has two boys with a third child on the way soon. There’s a picture of the boys on the website (same link as above). Doug lives just down the street from our astronaut classmate Steve LINDSEY. Chuck SCHWEISS told me that he’s in Denver as a 737 Captain for United, but will probably be shifting to the right seat of the 777 in San Francisco soon, due to post Sept 11 cutbacks. Chuck said he attended the ceremony where Preston THOMPSON took command of an F-16 squadron at Cannon in October. Rick MRAZ is back at USAFA after having returned from a deployment to Saudi. He worked Operations SOUTHERN WATCH, ENDURING FREEDOM, and DESERT SHIFT. The last of the three was to move JTF-SWA operations from Riyadh to Prince Sultan Air Base. At USAFA Rick is the program manager for the CAMIS database

modernization (Cadet Admin Management Info System?). If you don’t tell me what they mean, I make ‘em up!

Hey, I dunno.

Can anyone help?

Percent members: 37

Hello Redtags! The Christmas season brought with it lots of updates from our classmates, so let’s start working our way through them! Alex ABUYUAN sent an e-mail to let me know he’s living in the Dayton area, married, with

four kids (two of each). He and his wife, Ginny, have been married 11 years now, and Alex has his own insurance agency and an Internet-based financial planning company. He also does modeling and acting on the side, and was an extra in Traffic which was shot near here in Cincinnati. See the website for Alex’s home page address and the address of his financial planning site. Click on the “Your News” button and select the Oct-Dec 2001 link. Phil BOSSERT wrote to tell me that his novel Core Values has been pub-

fished (see last quarter’s article) and is available on amazon.com and barnsandnoble.com. Pete LIVINGSTON dropped a note to tell me that I buffooned my line in the September issue about him visiting the Stans (Kazakstan, Turkmenistan, etc.) while at Air War College. Well, he’s right, his regional studies class went to Ethiopia, Tanzania, and Kenya. Pete’s now the Chief of C-130 Systems Testing here at Wright-Patterson, responsible for C- 130J and C-130 Avionics Modernization Program testing. His son Sean (15, no

Bob RANCK took a break from the action in the JCS (Joint Chiefs of

Staff) CAT (Crisis Action Team) at the Pentagon to give me an update. He

Joyce WASHINGTON (‘85) sent me a note asking if any of you know how she could contact Jim NAPOLEON’S mom, Audrey Napoleon. As you’ll recall, Jim was killed in a car accident in July of 1995, and Joyce struck up a friendship with his mom. She’s lost touch with her and would like to reconnect. Joyce thinks Audrey may have moved back to New York.

Jim Ratti

I did screw it up. He was on a safari in Africa at the time

sophomore in high school) made Eagle Scout in Oct. Younger brother Brett is in eighth grade and spends his days trying to outdo his sibling!

—

Dean MILLS is back at the Academy and has started jumping again. He says the cadets think he’s older than the hills! Bob NISSEN is the commander of the 98 th Airmanship Sq, and Ted BREWER is an attached Reservist. The three of them are hoping to be able to jump into the stadium at the homecoming game this year! Alan GOARD finished up his second four-month tour as Vice Commander of the 16 th AEW at Aviano. He said he hung out with John and Mary Ellen CRENNAN and their four girls while he was there. John’s been over there just shy of three years now, so I’d guess he was a pretty good tour guide! Alan will be PCSing to Ottawa, Ontario to be the program manager for the North Warning System. Says his boys (currently with their mom in Montgomery) are excited about

spending summers in Canada, eh? Dave HAGGINBOTFIAM sent a short note updating his e-mail address.

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY! YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED. CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

He’s now the Assistant Chief of Flight Safety at ACC HQ at Langley. Speaking of Safety, Ron WARNER is running the Aeronautical Systems Center safety office here at Wright-Patt. Chip BRIGGS (aka “Computer Chip”, “Chocolate Chip”, and maybe even “Buffalo Chip”) sent news from Denver, where he’s an Oracle Certified Professional Database Administrator

working for Lockheed Martin. Chip says although he’s been a civilian for many years he still feels very connected to the USAF since they’re the primary customer for the computer systems he supports. Chip will be giving presentations on database administration at two conferences in early 2002. Marc ARRENDALE updated his e-mail address, but didn’t give me any news except to say that he’s “keeping (his) head down”. Then I noticed that his signature block was chief of the network security division at HQ US Special Ops Command. Whew. Steve OSBURN dropped a quick line to let me know he’s a GS-14 working obsolescence issues for the Navy in Washington (the state, that is...). Speaking of the Navy, Bob WELLER wrote to say that his company, KPMG Consulting, moved him to Pax River NAS in Maryland where he’s working on a NAVAIR contract. I added his

great kids and is currenfiy a Super 80 Captain for American in Dallas. Mark BAGOSIAN is an F-100 Captain in DFW; Bill VOLKER is also an F-100 Captain in DFW. John PAVLOCK was also in training, he was transitioning to the 757/ 767, not sure where. We spent the night with the yearbook out trying to match faces with some pretty bizarre tales; they got better as the night drew on. Thanks again Mark, good luck with all. Now for the mailbag. Kevin and Cara MCMILLIN are still in California but I’m not too sure who Kevin flies for. Ron and Tonia GRAVES are in Colorado

where Ron flies for United. I did have a nice layover in LA and my old roommate Bill RUJEVCAN took me around the Boeing Sea Launch docks and ships. Bill and Holly and two beautiful little girls, Marielle and Madison. Got bad news but a great photo of Chris, ’82, and Leslee FORSBERG WASHER. Both Chris and Leslee will be retiring 1 Nov 2002. I suppose it’s about that time huh? Hey Les, what’s with the bull and those metal reins in his nose? Also pictured are their two great kids, Jacob and Becca.

Christmas letter to the website. Dianna ACKERLY wrote to say that she and Paul have moved from Randolph to Laughlin, where Paul just took over as the Ops Group Commander on 30 Oct. They’re going to let their daughter Ashley “practice for college” and stay back in San Antonio to finish her senior year of high school. I got a nice Christmas letter from Scott and Patty SHIER. Their quints are six years old now, and are doing very well. Scott marvels at how five children, born at the same time, of the same genetic stock, and raised in the same household, can have such unique traits and personalities. His letter recounts their exploits over the past year, and it sounds like they’re a great bunch. As of this writing (early Jan) we still don’t have a hard date for our 20 th reunion. But by the time this article appears in print, we should know with certainty. Watch the website (http://usafa82.org/reunion) for details. And don’t forget to order your class coin! Be Safe, Ratman

From left are Chris, Jacob, Leslee, and Becca Washer. Next in the mail bag is a letter from Doug and Kim HIGH. They are still in the Springs were Doug is stationed at Schriever AFB where he is the

Raymond J. Blust 7 Highland Park Wheeling, VW 26003-5472 Home: (304) 242-7182 Cell: (304) 281-1621

E-mail: RJBLUST@CS.COM Percent members: 39

Greetings from West Virginia. I hope this new year finds you at the place you want to be, with the person you want to be with and the life you wished for. As for Julie and I, we’d like to wish everyone a most blessed and fruitful new year. As you can see from our family photo, we’ve been

truly blessed. We have two wonderful kids and find most of our extended family in good health. I am still with American alternating flying out of Chicago and New York as an FO on the 757 and 767. I am also still an ALO here in West Virginia and parts of Ohio. Julie has only one more semester and we’re finally finished with a degree in Exercise Physiology, code words for how to keep (or get) a middle-aged man in shape. Julie and I finally found the house we’ve been looking for, so if you ever drive through this way on 1-70 please call as we now have the room. No walking up steps as this place has an elevator that goes from the attic to the basement. Matthew, 10, is still Mr. Involvement piano, soccer, hockey (two teams) and Cub Scouts. Audrey, 1.5, is just into everything and is Daddy’s little girl. They are the center of our lives and it doesn’t get any better than that. Well that’s enough about us, time for the good stuff. —

Deputy Director for AF TENCAP. Doug, no more acronyms. Kim is the family taxi but is also a killer mom at the Y’s spinning class. They have th two girls, Hilary, 4 grade, and Anna, three years old. Next is a letter from my old squadron mate Mike PADILLA. Mike and Edith live in Memphis where Mike is an MD-11 FO for FED-EX. They have two boys, Mikey, 2 nd grade, and Anthony, two years. Next is a letter from John, ’84, and Gayle JOHNSON DENNY. John is DC-9 CA with Airborne Express in Cincinnati. Because John is an ‘84 puke I won’t waste anymore of our precious space on him, even though he was a fellow Recce driver. Gayle just took over as the LOD (commander) of the southwest Ohio ALOs. Sorry I missed ya at the conference Gayle; maybe next year we can bring our spouses and they can go shopping while we work! Gayle and John have two chitlins: Grace, 13, who boasts the fastest time in the

400-medley relay in the nation for 11 -12 girls. I see another All-American th on the Academy’s pool wall. Wes, 5 grade, is no slouch though as his basketball team won the AAU title in Ohio and participated in the nationals in Florida. I’ll see you on the first tee John! I love Pete and Gerry MCCAFFREY’S montage for a Christmas card. Please contact Pete if you’d like to receive a copy, only $19.95 per year. Trust me, it’s worth it. Pete is an FO for United in Denver and I believe he still flies ‘16s for the North Dakota Guard. Gerry turned 29 this past year double oops! Pete and Gerry have oops! Julie does this year also two kids: Michael who attended the Falcon hockey camp, and Kimberly who attended the Falcon cheerleading camp. Next letter and photo comes from Bill and Lori PLOSA CHESTNUT. They are living in northern Kentucky where Bill is a 757/767 FO for Delta out of —

—

Cincy. Lori, as usual, is the rock of the family and stays home to raise Matthew, 14, is one rank away from Eagle Scout; th David, 10, skipped 5 grade because of Lori’s intelligence; Elena, 6, a.k.a. Princess is the family’s violin virtuosi; and finally George, 3, who is, like Lori said, “simply wonderful”. Good luck and you’re in our prayers. their four children.

T-B, Ray, Audrey, Julie and Matthew Blust (I was enroute to DFW for training on 9/11 but managed to hook up with a few guys. Mark REINEKE was quite the gracious host as he had a few of us over for B and B. That’s Beef and Beer in Texas. Mark has three

“The Chestnuts”: From left are William, Lori, Matthew, George, David, and Elena Chestnut. Ill

Next letter comes from Rob and Edith ENGLEHART who have taken the wheels off the trailer and are staying in San Antone. Rob left the flight line and is now an instructor at the AF Advanced Instrument School. He

still gets to fly the T-38 and is an AF Advance Agent for the President. How’s Crawford Rob? Edith still works for Clarke American and is the

emotional counselor to two teenage girls. Rob, get out of the house now while you still have a chance. Kristin, 15, has her permit and tells her dad that if he doesn’t like her driving, stay off the sidewalk. Alyssa, 13, was on the San Antonio City Championship team in cheerleading-congrats. I

give up. I just got Jon and Brenda DURESKY’s Christmas novella; it was only two pages, single spaced! It, however, was a good read. Jon, as I write, is deployed as he said “somewhere east of Israel and west of Beijing”. You are in our prayers Jon. Jon is flying C- 130s out of Dyess but will be moving sometime this summer. Jon was the senior AF rep at Normandy for the 2001 D-Day re-enactment. Brenda still owns the Camaro SS, as she should. They have two children: Jeffrey, 18, is a baseball stud who may enter the Academy with the next class, good luck Jeffrey. Kendal is in the 9 th grade where she swims and runs track. The next photo comes from fellow ‘38 driver Andy IAGRONE, and his th wife, Jamie. Andy is the SQ/CC of the 25 FTS at Vance AFB and has been since) 01/01. That’s Andy’s jet in the background. Congrats Andy or should I say congrats Jamie. They have two kids: Jake, 13, is 5’ 8” and wears size 11 shoes, a true grain-fed boy. Cameron, 10, plays the trombone and loves to read.

this web site will be an invaluable tool to get in touch with everyone and to pass along info. The next article will be brought to you by Jon JDQ DURESKY. You can reach him at: 5342 Western Plains Ave., Abilene, TX 79606 or at (915) 6987850 or at DureskyJB@AOL.com. Until next time, please fly safe and keep our men and women deployed overseas defending our freedom in your prayers. Take care and may God bless.

Mike Jensen 12035 Milam Road Colorado Springs, CO 80908 (800) GO-AFA-GO E-mail: mdjensen21@yahoo.com Home page: www.usafa.net/1984 Percent members: 29

Happy New Year! I really appreciated all of the inputs and the many Christmas cards, letters, and photos received. What a great group! Moving up: I remember my first AOC, LTC Ed Farrell, and how “mature” he looked. In fact most of those field-graders just looked old! Now we are in those positions, “field graders” and above! The one’s in charge! And judging from the pictures, the years have done us well! Starting off our updates is Scott VAN GORDER running the C-12 operations for DLA. -

He had the opportunity to get some flying in, and was able to swap out some airplanes all over the world, traveling Andrews to Andrews eastbound. RHIP! He ran into John TAYLOR in Muscat, Oman who was run-

ning the C-130 deployment. Nick MATCHEFTS wrote in to say he completed his ordination, and the Reverend is a pastor of a small church in the Upper Peninsula of Michigan. Mark GILLOTT is the Ops Officer for the F-16 unit at Luke, and made it to Game 7 of the World Series. Al BURKE is the Director of Operations for the 17 th Test Squadron at Schriever AFB, and his family is expecting a baby boy. The new addition should be on-board by the time you get this. Best Wishes to Al, Audrey and daughter Samantha! In Wyoming, Mike STROUD works in Evanston for the school district. Scott DICKMEYER works as Assistant Program Manager for the Raytheon Premier I aircraft training program, and as a Reservist in the 931 Air Refueling Group. His photo is of him, wife Diana, and Nathan, Jordan, Scott and Lindsay. “The Lagrones": From left are Cameron, Jamie, Jacob, and Andy Lagrone. I have finally come to the winner of this year’s “mid-life, I’ve always

wanted to do this” winner. The winners are: The Gailey Gang. Be afraid, very afraid! Pictured are A1 “Sheefus” GAILEY with his faithful son Kenny

holding Divot. Cathy sporting the all-black look and on obviously the larger of the two bikes with Brittany holding Echo. Cathy did note that A1 was the DG at the Harley Davidson Riders Edge Safety Course. Nice going Al. A1 is flying and instructing for Delta on the 737-800 out of Atlanta. He’s also playing golf and likes long walks on the beach. Cathy is a realtor at RE/MAX.

“But I am woman hear me roar” is her motto! You gotta love

gal that will not only let her guy buy a bike but buys one too! A bigger th one to boot. Al and Cathy have two aforementioned kiddies. Brittany, 6 is tall blonde the (like (like (like mailman), grade, daddy), skinny daddy), blue-eyed (guessing the mailman again) and has attitude (like mommy). nd Kenny, 2 grade, loves to terrorize Brittany and plays on the Little Dribbiers Basketball team, though not to be confused with his Dad’s team, the Big Droolers. Great photo guys. a

Geoff JOHNSON was mobilized to work at Ft Meade. Karl ALVAREZ works with Senator Hillary Rodham Clinton on her D.C. staff, and has been working many of the issues in the New York state. Ed LORENZINI is the Chief of the Commander’s Action Group for the Air Armament Center at Eglin AFB. He and his wife have four children and enjoy the beaches and weather. He saw Bob CARRIEDO, who is getting his PhD for a follow-on assignment to USAFA in the History Department. Joe

LEAVENGOOD, a JAG Reservist, is opening up his own law office. He also runs a business called InfoTroop, which provides information

“The Gailey Gang”: From left are Al, Divot, Kenny, Cathy, Echo, and Brit-

tany Gailey. Before I close let remind everyone about our web site. Thanks to Bruce running. Please visit and sign up at http:// members.aol.com/usafal983/index.html. Less than two years till our 20 th ; LEPLEY it’s up and

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Karl Alvarez and Hillary

brokering services. Jim HARTLE is back in the T-38 at Randolph, after his return from the F-16 at Misawa. He and his wife, Robin, have three boys, Josh, Chase, and Dillon. Attention Ladies and Gentlemen: If you look out of the left side of the

aircraft, you might see Howard HAYES. F-16 unit, flying CAP over our cities.

He is activated with the Duluth Paul JOHNSON may be refueling

Howard. Paul is a Reservist flying the KC-135 and is a captain for AirTran out of Atlanta. He and his wife, Gina, have one child, Alex, born last January. Sue GREGORY (NIEMEYER) is living in Florida with husband, Andy, and their children Drew and Nikki. They saw Buddy LIGON who is stationed at Warner Robbins as a Joint Stars Pilot. Sue reports Scott STENGLE works for Harris Corporation and lives down in Melbourne, FL with his wife and their two kids.

Melody BELL lives in Las Vegas with her husband, Louis Anderson, and their son Kendall.

She works as a GS-15 Procurement Director for the

Department of Energy. Ward WORSTER and his wife, Anne (WEAVER), had a healthy baby last fall. They are both with United Airlines. Brian MEIER is assigned to Robins AFB, GA as Flight Medicine Flight Commander and Chief of Optometry. Married to Robin with three children, Kyle, Austin, and Susan. Mike BRENNAN is Chief of Flight Safety for HQ/

The Randolph family: Mark, Melba, Malek and Malia.

AFSOC down at Hurlburt AFB. The Brennans have three children as well,

Michael, Kathryn, and Virginia. Always good to hear from Chris ROWZEE, who is Director of Personnel 189 AW for the AR ANG. She was deployed to Ramstein to a 30-day tour at USAFE Headquarters. What is next? The importance of our military has become important again. Back when we earned our commissions and received our welcome by President Reagan, we had a known enemy, one we could put a face to, one we could prepare for. Today, much of that seems to have changed. One thing hasn’t changed, however, is the leadership inside each of us. It wasn’t very fashionable for a while, but it too has come back. Leadership, whether it be in your job or your home life, creates the world of tomorrow. It is something we cannot overlook and definitely something which must be practiced every day. Keep up the great work,

enjoy the journey and God Bless America.

The Lambert family: Keith, Faye, Keitha and Marcus. “Hats off” to Jeff HAYMOND who completed his doctorate degree in economics at George Mason University in May 2001 and has come to work on the Air Staff. Jeff works in the Directorate of Space Operations

Quintel Williams 6410 Katherine Ann Lane

Springfield, VA 22150 E-mail: USAFA1985@aol.com Percent members: 33

Hi everyone. I hope you all had a fun and safe winter. I especially hope you all had a great holiday season. Renee, Kristen and I had a nice time during the holidays; and we’re off to another great year! Ched JONES sent a family picture their Christmas card from Stuttgart,

Germany this year. Ched is pictured below with his wife, Marsha, and their kids: Travis, Alysia and Preston.

and Integration (HQ USAF/XOS) on the Space Commission Implementation Task Force. Jeff leads a Christian bible study in the Pentagon’s main

cafeteria on Thursday mornings. Gary RAFFERTY moved out here in May 2001 to work on the Joint Staff. He’s battling some health issues and could use some prayer for complete

healing. Congratulations to Rod “Trash” CREGIER who’s busy out at Edwards AFB these days commanding the 410th Flight Test Squadron (F-117 Combined Test Force), located at AF Plant 42 in Palmdale. Rod provided a picture from his Change of Command ceremony last April that includes his wife, Cindy, and their four children: Nathan, Stephanie, Rachel and Garrett. Other classmates out there are Mike MASUCCI, who commands the U-2 Test Squadron also at Plant 42, and Dave FEDORS, who is a Reservist and flies heavies at Edwards.

The Cregier family in front of an F-ll 7: Rod, Cindy, Nathan, Stephanie, Rachel and Garrett.

Congratulations to Jon SIMS as well. The CY02 Intelligence Squadron Commander Candidate Selection Board selected Jon as a candidate. Way The Jones family: Ched, Marsha, Travis, Alysia, and Preston. Mark RANDOLPH sent a family picture their Christmas card this year too. Mark is in the picture below with his wife and their kids: Mark, Melba,

Malek and Malia Keith LAMERT’s family got their Christmas cards in the mail before the movers packed them for their PCS to England last fall. The Lamberts are pictured below: Keith, Faye, Keitha and Marcus. I know they are enjoying this assignment.

to go Jon!

One of the guys in my office told me that I was on the Air Force Space Command 2002 Squadron Operations Officer candidate list for Lt Cols

and Lt Col-selects. We’ll see if anything comes of it. I’d really love to get back to launching rockets in Florida but there were missile squadrons on the list. It would be an honor get into command anywhere though.

Ray HARRIS gave me a “cc” on his e-mail replying to Tom BROWNING’S request for access to our class web site. Tom graduated from CS-22 and is an Eagle driver by trade, but currently stationed at Peterson AFB work113

ing for HQ NORAD. (“Yes, I am one of the 20 or 30 grads still in the USAF.”) Tom said he thinks the web site is a great idea and that he looks forward to contributing.

Wendy (LINK) ROUTHIER wrote to say thanks for the time and effort that goes into an article every issue. She said she enjoys reading about our classmates but “sometimes it seems as if our USAFA experience is light years away!” She provided the following info on some of our classmates.

Todd BROSZ and his wife, Danielle, (plus four blond boys!) were

at Scott AFB when they arrived (Mar 99) but have since PCSed to Colo-

rado where Wendy believes Todd is working as an Academy Airmanship instructor. Josh JOSE is also at Scott with his wife, Evelyn, and three kids. Alan ABANGAN and his wife, Carolyn, are expecting their second child soon. Alan works in “SC” with Kevin (ROUTHIER). Kevin has also run into Marilyn (GARCIA) KOTT who is here as well. Shelly (GINDER) GRADY is a home-schooling mom with nine children (yes that was ninel up in Alaska, but they are on their way any day now to Offutt AFB where hus-

band, Rod, will be a weather officer.

Wendy and Kevin have seven beautiful children, six boys and one girl, and life is busy but pretty good. We home school also, have a great, supportive church, and really enjoy the slower pace of life in the Midwest. Kevin is currently the chief of the Director’s Action Group for the AMC/ SC (he used to be the program manager for the Global Decision Support System until last March). Kev has two years prior service, so he is only

Frank and Wendy and son and two daughters live north of Philadelphia. (“Luch! Look for him on the Milan runways.”) John WILLIAMS is flying with United and has a great new place in San Francisco. John’s still accompanied by a beautiful Australian lady. (“Mr. Williams! Future California governor if not NSA operative.”) Geoff SEWELL is a VP with a firm near Denver and married to Paula. (“Whale! Why can’t I remember those parties?”) Jeff SMITH is a VP with Brinker in is flying with American.

Dallas. Jeff and Cindy have two boys. (“Smitty! Another great QB.”) Shep, his wife, Kathy, and two boys are considering leaving Des Moines, which, believe it or not, is tough. Shep’s looking for possibilities in Kansas City, Milwaukee, Dallas, and Naples, among others. Shep’s also leaning towards staying in an institutional equity with Stifel Nicolaus Hanifen Imhoff in KC which will continue to keep me on the west coast frequently, hopefully often in the company of some of the above. Or Shep could finally plunge into the practice of law; he’s doing Reserve JAG. I want to thank Jim LOVELL and pass aiong compliments that I get from folks “in the know” concerning his outstanding work at Officer Training School (OTS). Jim’s a squadron commander at OTS. A picture of Jim, his wife Holly and their two girls (Hope and Love) is below.

two years away from retirement now!

I saw Chuck THOMPSON in the hallway at the Pentagon last summer

Sorry but I just found the note to remind myself. He told me he was th heading out; PCSing to Korea to be the “DO” in the 607 Combat Operations Squadron. It’s a one-year short tour. He said to “tell everyone to come on by” he’d buy you a beer if you did. Ben BELLIS, Jr. (a.k.a. Bonj) wrote that he’s flying the 737-800 out of Guam with Continental Airlines. He loves Pacific flying but commutes back to the states to fly with the Wyoming Air Guard. In the Guard, he flies the C-130 and is in charge of the Wing Command Post. Ben’s also the proud owner of a house in Castle Rock, CO that he occasionally gets to see. Ben’s still single but he has a girlfriend in the Philippines. As you can read, he’s got a very full plate and not a lot of “free time.” I don’t know

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how he does it.

Mike CHALLMAN sent me an e-mail too. He wrote several classmates at once so I’ll share what he had to say with the rest of “the gang.” Mike posted some pictures on our class web site. Most of them are pretty funny shots of a few of our classmates who were in Barnstormin 23 at the time,

providing Hell Week input to the Class of ‘86. He included a more contemporary picture of himself with is family too. Everyone should take a look at the pictures when you get a chance. Matt BRIDGERS wrote. He and his wife, Paula, are in the throes of life. Paula is studying for her licensing exam and her M.A. comprehensive exam both are in January. Matt says things are going very well for him at Raytheon. He’s not running the joint just yet, but he’s getting there. The VP is my former boss and he seems to have his eye on me for rapid advancement in the company. We will see what the New Year brings. Otherwise, Raytheon is rapidly trying to bring value to the table for the DOD and other agencies in Operation Enduring Freedom. In addition to being a system engineering manager at Raytheon, Matt’s also a corporate Raytheon “Six Sigma” expert (approved by corporate board of executives in Lexington, MA, on Nov 14). Currently, Six Sigma is my primary duty. Matt and the other experts in the company are working on

The Lovell family: Jim, Holly, Hope and Love.

Joe MCBREATY wrote and asked if we’d se the Checkpoints as a “venue” to take a survey our thoughts

about trying to bring back the last four

Since he was in CS-39 and CS-40, he was just wondering. This article isn’t the place to conduct a survey but I asked Ray HARRS if

squadrons.

he could put something on our class web site and he not only said we

could, he did it! So log on to the class web site and cast your votes. We’ll get the results to the AOG staff and see if they’ll get the issue raised with other classes and/or the Academy leadership. The URL for the USAFA ’85 site is: http://www.softwrsolutions.com/usafa85. That’s it for now. Keep the class news coming in. Until the next time ..

Best regards, Quintel.

Gary Burg

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more and better ways to

improve Raytheon’s effectiveness in increasing

However, it won’t last forever; every expert is expected to return to the business areas after a 1.5- to 2-year tour as an expert. I will hit the 1.5-year point this summer. So, I’ve been customer value.

It is a great job!

asked to think about what I want to do next. I want to run a profit and loss center. If I get that type of job I may have to move to the East Coast, or become a product line manager here in Colorado. Either one would be OK with Paula and me. Shep SPARKS wrote with some news (and commentaries) on a few of his buds...Mark MULLANEY is consulting in D.C. and he and Kathy, a dentist, have a daughter. (“Muggo! Who was that hailed by all in Mitchell hall?”) Mike MURRAY is in Southern Cal near San Diego, now a VP with

JP Mobile software. Mike and Melissa have a daughter and son. (“Murph! Former greeter at Bennigan’s on Academy Boulevard.”) Doug WELLS is still with the Force in USAFA athletic dept., but now he has a doctorate degree and completed a 100-mile super marathon. Doug and Heather have three sons. (“Dr. Wells! Future AF Athletic Director.”) Mike OTT is now the managing director/west coast at U.S. Bancorp Piper Jaffray in Minneapolis and has a beautiful new home. Mike and Steph have a

daughter and a new baby boy. (“Otter! Watch out for those back seats in Boulder.”) Von CAMERON is a VP with a technology firm in Los Angeles. Von is married to the lovely Kay. (“Vonnie! How did you bounce those passes off my chest from 40 yards away?”) Eric DEARDORF is flying with United. Eric and Mindy, two sons and a daughter have recently moved to Houston. (“Herms! Did you see this guy do the butterfly?”) Frank LUCCI 114

PSC 41, Box 5423 APO, AE 09464-5201 Email: gary.burg@lakenheath.af.mil or

Ice492FS@aol.com Percent members: 35

This update follows my recent PCS so I don’t have much in the way of inputs this go-around. I did get one direct e-mail from Angel GONZALEZ and a letter and some photos from Alan BATTS but the rest will be from information I’ve pick-up through my travels or through the grapevine. There weren’t any tangible inputs from Christmas cards this year because I didn’t get cards out until late and forwarded mail is pretty slow.

Angel writes “It’s been a long time since I sent in an update. The last couple of years have been filled with plenty of ups and downs, and the roller coaster ride isn’t over yet. I separated from active duty in January of this year, having been employed by American Airlines since Decernher of 2000. A few months’ delay from separating at my 14-year point seems to have caught up with me. I got my furlough notice from AA effective December 2, just a couple of days shy of my one-year anniversary with the company. Everyone in the military knows the risks of being in the civilian job sector, and now I know it very personally. Luckily, American cancelled the furlough before it took effect so I’m still employed. Getting out of active duty is a leap of faith, no matter what the job market seems to be doing. One thing is for sure, if the job market is doing well, the sooner you start your second career, the better. Just a couple of weeks would have made the difference for me in this instance, not that there aren’t any more furloughs coming. So, if you are still on active duty, count your blessings. If you plan on separating, keep your ear on the economic pulse, and when it starts beating again, get out as soon as possible. The lucky ones will be the ones who put in their papers to separate before the economy recovers, and time it

perfectly. Have a back-up plan. A friend of mine moved back in with his parents, wife and two kids in tow. Not to say that’s all bad, but who can live with their parents?!

Luckily, I didn’t have to exercise a back-up plan.

If anyone happens by the Dallas-Ft Worth area, please give me a call. I’m only a few miles from the DFW airport, and would be happy to put you up for a night or two. By the way, I am domiciled out of Boston MA, but live in Texas, while I wait for my seniority to allow a transfer to DFW. That’s another thing about working for an airline, you get to choose where you want to live but you can’t always choose where you work. I am now trying to switch to Miami so I can spend some time with my dad too, who had his 74 th birthday this past June. I was on reserve in Boston on September 11th, and although I fly the 737 and not the 767, anyone of us could have been aboard that aircraft, commuting to or from work. Hope you enjoy the photo of the family. We had it taken for Christmas. Hope you had a great Christmas and Happy Holidays!”

Hopefully most of us will have good news on our primary promotion board by the time this hits the street. For all who make promotion CONGRATULATIONS! Sorry for the short column this time, I promise to do better this fall. Please send Bob COLELLA your updates next go around. -

Sharon Giletti 1116 Kaumoku St.

lllplpf

Honolulu, HI 96825 (808) 394-6397 E-mail: Sharongiletti@aol.com Percent members: 31

▼

Hello all! It’s been great to hear from so many of you regarding your email addresses. I am building quite a list of contacts for everyone. Speaking of contacts, a funny thing happened to me here in Hawaii at Hickam AFB. I’ve been trying to regain my commission the past several months and I am working with a recruiter at Hickam. Well, long story, but I’ll keep it short. The recruiter needed my transcripts and said, “I don’t usually do officer commissions, actually, never have. You know, funny thing I’m retiring soon and I have these two officer commissions pending. I have to request transcripts for the other guy too... from the AF Academy... graduated 1987!” Anyway, Pat REID is the other grad and it turns out that he lives in my neighborhood! He’s flying for United and he and his wife have three daughters very small world. Who knows, when you read this, you may find out a classmate is near you too! Many people who sent e-mail updates also shot a quick note. Unfortunately, the extremely hectic schedule I’ve had the past few weeks have resulted in a proportional amount of extreme procrastination on my part in getting this update together. I’ll admit up front that I’m going to quote the notes. Go ahead, call me lazy I’ll try harder next time J Preston PLOUS wrote: “I’m still hanging out with the Marines at MCAS New River, trying to get the MV-22 Osprey back into the air. After two crashes, several investigations, a 60-Minutes special, and half the U.S. Congress coming to visit, we are STILL over a year out from resuming training! (This certainly has been an Air Force appreciation tour.) Getting to fly the Here on occasion with the 58th SOW at Kirtland just to keep somewhat sane." Mark RUSE is now at Travis AFB as the Civil Engineer Squadron’s Chief of Operations. He and his family had been at Hickam AFB for three years, so they can empathize with me on living in paradise! Reggie NELSON from CS-15 sent in: “I am a first officer flying for Ford Motor Company out of Detroit, MI. Currently, I fly Gulfstream 5s and Fokker 100s. I ran into Tom STANLEY down in Savannah, GA this past July. He was going thru initial while I was in refresher training.” I received an email full of updates but the sender only signed off as “Paul”: “I admit that I haven’t written too much in the past, but I keep running into so many ‘87 grads as I travel around the world that I figure I should drop you a line. First off, I was hired at United in August 2000. A few weeks later, Steve “Skippy” GLENN showed up as a new hire. We figured out later that he had interviewed with my ‘tag team’ immediately following me. Since they hired both of us, I guess they were not too picky that day. Colin BERRY was hired a few weeks ahead of us and was flying as a FO on the 737-200 in Chicago with me. He was also flying C-130s with the Texas ANG, so I suspect that is where he is spending most of his time these days. I went to Airbus school in the spring a few weeks behind Kirk MONTGOMERY. After flying the E-4, he was ready for something smaller. Here in Chicago, I was welcomed by Ken CLINE, Karl all of whom are high enough that they HJERPE and Todd HENNINGS still should be surviving. Also had Jeff FRENT on my plane one day. Still gotta call him if I can stay still long enough. Scott HAVERKATE got hired in the summer of 2001 and I ran into him at the union meeting right after 9 /11. He is wisely retreating back to active duty, which looks pretty good when compared to some of the alternatives. As for me, I moved to Chicago in the summer and started working at the Pentagon as an IMA. I admit it is a long commute, but since I could fly for free it seemed to be a workable arrangement. I’ve run into LtCol (burner) Jeff MCDANIELS a few times and Laz VERES as well. I found former roommates Scott ERICSON and Chris HOPE both working in the CAT. I’m on 179-day orders right now and find myself overseas more often than not. I’ve worked on the staff in theater with Dean PFAB (PowerPoint Wizard) and Nick RADOVCICH (TaskView Wizard) and ran into John WILCOCKSON at an undisclosed location. I also owe a big debt of thanks to Dave MILLER who found me wandering around a C-130 holding my A-3 Bag looking for a billeting office in the midst of a war zone. He was kind enough to give me a ride in his ‘staff car’ and get me to where I needed to go. I figure that’s enough for now. Anyone needing to get a hold of me, drop a line to pablo@mcl30.com. I also put out a weekly Mission Planning tip and a monthly newsletter (PFPS and FalconView stuff) when I manage to stay home.” Brad BURCHETT shared some bad news. They had a house fire on Sat—

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The Late Christmas letter from Alan BATTS managed to get forwarded Alan is living in the Portland, OR area. Alan reflected in the day of 9-11 and classmates he’s met this past year, “The terrorist attack on the World Trade Center in New York City and the Pentagon affected us all. Five of my friends who were stationed at the to me just before the deadline.

Pentagon the day of the attack, Majors Curtis GREEN, Jock STUKES, Northan GOLDEN, Vic CHAMBERS and LtCol Jenny GRAHAM, were not injured. My former AOC, now LtCol (retired) Arthur Schwall, Jr., was flying for Delta Airlines and in the sky the day of the attack. I and my mom were scheduled to fly to Colorado Springs that morning on an American Airlines flight; needless to say we didn’t make the flight. We ended up driving to the Springs after it didn’t look like flying was an option. While there I visited my former roommates, Carlos QUITERIO. Carlos is assigned to HQ Space Command at Peterson AFB. I also called Susan Lear who I worked with at McClellan AFB, CA. Susan is the wife of Kirk LEAR. The Lears should be PCSed to Elmendorf AFB, AK by now.” Alan also passed along his email address (Alan.L.Batts @Worldnet.att.net) for anyone wanting to get in contact with him.

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Alan Batts at a memorial ceremony.

My PCS brought me in contact with a few of our classmates. I stopped by Ellsworth AFB, SD to see Todd WESTHAUSER but unfortunately he was mission planning during the day I could stop by so I didn’t get to see him. He had made LtCol below the zone and took over command of a B-1 squadron this past summer. Speaking of fast burners, I now work for one of our finest LtCol Steve KWAST. Steve took over command of the 492 FS early last year and is doing a great job leading the Madhatters through a grueling operations tempo. Other ‘86ers in the Bolars (492 FS) are Majors Chris KNEHANS and Chris ACKERSON and LtCol Ken KNIGHT, who is also a flight surgeon at Lakenheath. Jay HUMELBAUGH is also inbound this spring. I’m sure the longer I’m at Lakenheath, the more I’ll run into. I’ll also extend an open invitation for any of you going through RAF Lakenheath to stop by for dinner/the night. I have a great English pub just across the street we can go visit too! One last thing I would like to pass along is that I couldn’t be prouder of how well our country has endeavored with the events of 11 Sept 2001. Our whole country has rallied behind our commander-in-chief and shown the world why democracy is so precious and why we are willing to defeat any terrorist who threatens our freedom. -

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urday, Jan 5. They are all safe and fine, but facing a 5-6 month restoration of their home and its contents. “I expect to be able to give USAA a ringing endorsement after this is over; they seem to be taking care of us quite well so far!” Brad can be reached at Rose-Hulman Institute of Technology, bradley.t.burchett@rose-hulman.edu, if you’d like to contact him for support or to offer any assistance. I also got some Christmas cards from several classmates. John and Gail ABBATIELLO and their two sons are in London again! They left Georgia last summer so that John can attend King’s College in pursuit of his PhD. Ray WRIGHT, his wife, Rachel, and their two boys are still in Attleboro, MA. Ray’s still having a blast with Pfizer. They also have a baby due any time now! Talk about keeping Rachel busy. Any connection with a certain Pfizer product wink, wink, nod, nod, say no more, —

—

say no more! The STEWART (Mike) family is enjoying their assignment at ACSC at Maxwell AFB. It seemed they were in D.C. forever. They could be back there this summer. I hope for them, they get a cool place. And, last but not least, the SPRANGERS finally found a home in Tampa, FL. Kurt is flying with American Airlines out of Miami and they have been hunting for a house for quite some time. They found a great fixerupper to keep Kurt busy. Malia (BELL) has been busy, as usual, with their three boys, but added to that, she was called back to active duty at MacDill AFB where she has been mobilizing Reservists. Nearly each day here I see some of the most beautiful rainbows. They remind me of the beauty in nature and the seeming magic created by mere sun and water. It reminds me of the good in life and the hope brought with the dawn of each new day. We need those reminders. Godspeed to you all and to those of you still actively defending our nation, we thank you. Until next time—S

Mark Peters

835 East Lamar Blvd., #151

Arlington, TX 76011 (817) 937-9696/Fax: (801) 327-0953

E-mail: pylt@attbi.com Percent members: 35

fflPPSft /

Hi ‘88! A remarkably sparse mail bag greets me as I begin to write, but mostly

of the collapse of the @home cable service. It’s a long story, but my pylt@home.com address is no longer operational although that was the last address listed in Checkpoints. This could lead to problems receiving e-mail! Fortunately, I had received a note or two before the email went out so here goes. First out of the chute was a “blast” e-mail from Marty MARCOLONGO which many of your may have also received: “The Association of Graduates has brought me on board as Constituent Liaison. My job is to assist graduates with any needs, assist local chapters, etc. One of the alarming th things I noticed is that our class has the 4 worst membership percentage amongst graduate classes. In other words, we rank number 40 out of 43 classes. (FYI: the lower classes are 1984,1987, and 1992.) I want to get us at least up over 50%. The Problem: If a graduate is not a member of the AOG, the AOG has no record of their address or phone number. I can’t contact them to ask them to join the rest of us in supporting the Academy and its current cadets. Proposed Solution: If you know where a Class of‘88 graduate is, or know their e-mail address, please send the information to me at this e-mail address even if you don’t know whether they are a member or not (Martin.Marcolongo@usafa.af.mil). I will contact them by e-mail, letter, or phone and let them know what it will cost to become a life member: currently $27 per month for two years. I know this will be a long process, but I’m willing to put in the time to do it. What I need is your networking. Let’s pitch in to start the process of moving us up the ladder amongst the classes!” As a life member myself, I heartily concur with Marty’s efforts let’s help him out! In a later update Marty informed me that he’d received emails of 30 non-members thus far. Among them was an update from John BERGQUIST. “I’m presently living in Littleton, CO and am flying for Air Wisconsin Airlines (a United Express carrier) as a Captain on the Dornier 328. Have been married for a little more than one year to my wife, Andrea, who is a Littleton native. She is a Colorado State University graduate and currently works as an independent consultant on Oracle software implementations. We are both avid snow and water skiers (as a matter of fact, we met at the water ski school here in Denver where I was working part time while earning my flight ratings). Mountain biking and house fixer-up projects take up the rest our time when we’re not working. We have no children at this time, but they’re not out of the question yet! If you or any other alumni are trying to reach us, our address and phone are John and Andrea BERGQUIST, 7922 South Vine Court, Littleton, CO 80122.” Marty also heard from Vicki RAST (BESECKER) who was down at ACSC, but no additional words. I managed to squeeze/pressure/beg Paul CHASTAIN for some e-mail info via a recent phone call. Here’s what he sent. “Here’s the info on what as a result

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I’ve been up to for the last 13+ years. After graduation, I attended UPT at Sheppard AFB, TX and had the added ‘pleasure’ of an additional four years as a T-37 FAIR While in Wichita Falls, not only did I acquire a high-frequency tone deafness thanks to the Tweet, but I also met and married my lovely wife, Shelley. We left Sheppard in 1993 for Little Rock AFB, AR, where I flew the C-130 for five years. While in Little Rock, we had a daughter, Elizabeth, in 1996. In April 1998,1 separated from the Air Force and joined the Texas ANG in Ft Worth, TX, and I continue to fly C-130s in the Guard. Also, I was hired by Southwest Airlines in May 1998 and I fly 737s out of Dallas. We had our second child, a son named Joshua, in February 1999 and that brings me up to the present date.” Paul can be reached at 1213 Indian Trail Road, Roanoke, TX 76262, (817) 491-5929. Lastly, I received a wonderful update from Kari THYNE via the Xmas Card route: “I didn’t write any Christmas cards last year, and it was all according to my grand plan. I found out at the end of November that I would be moving to Dover, DE in February. I figured once I got settled in then I would have time to send my annual newsletter with a change-ofaddress card. Well, I’m not settled in yet, and it’s time to move again in

July. Let me explain

“I moved to Dover to assume command of the 436th Equipment Maintenance Squadron on the 2nd of March. It’s the third largest squadron on base with just under 400 people. It’s an exciting job but it takes a tremendous amount of time and energy. I had been away from the flight line for about seven years, so I spent the first few months trying to figure out the business again. I haven’t spent much time around C-5s, and I’ve come to realize that everything takes nine times as long to accomplish as any other aircraft I’ve ever been around. “The ready facts I have about the C-5 are that it’s the largest aircraft in the inventory; it’s 82 yards long, so it takes up an entire football field; and it easily fits six Greyhound buses inside. The aircrew sits two stories above ground! Luckily for me, no one has pushed me off of the T-tail or the wings yet. I’m certain some of them are thinking about it though! Being a squadron commander is a lot like running on a hamster wheel. Most days I spend a lot of time running, but when all’s said and done I don’t think I’ve gotten anywhere. I’d like to say I’ve got the squadron running like the men’s 100- meter dash at the Olympics, but it’s more like chasing greased pigs at the fair. “It’s also my job to be the disciplinarian in the unit. To facilitate handling that role well, the Air Force gave me a big office. I’ve got a nice, big desk with a glass top. I had a high-back chair, but I had to get rid of it as my feet couldn’t touch the ground when I was sitting in it. So much for the intimidating trappings! I found out in October that I’m headed to Montgomery, AL for professional military education in July. The course is about a year long, which is hopefully NOT longer than I can stand living in Alabama! It was my last chance to get selected, so I certainly breathed a sigh of relief when my name was on the list. My brothers and their families are fine; they still live m Hawaii and work as firefighters, so I’m set with four nieces and nephew. As for me, my fish and canary are fine!” Thanks to all who wrote, and especially to Kari for her Xmas letter. Any chance I could get you to send me the one sitting on your hard drive? The new e-mail address above ought to work!

Paul W. Tibbets, IV 102 Chennault Ave. Barksdale AFB,LA71110 Home: (318) 746-3853 / DSN: 781-4528 E-mail: patibb@earthlink.net Home page: http://www.usafa89.com Percent members: 39

Hello friends. Aren’t Christmas letters great! Thanks to the celebration of our Savior’s birth, I have a few updates to pass along. God is good! The theme running through most of these is the increased tempo since 9-11. Either we are directly involved in Operations ENDURING FREEDOM and NOBLE EAGLE or have good friends who are. It makes me proud to see the impact bombers are making in this war against terrorism. From air superiority to close air support, the B-1 and B-52 are helping redefine the way we fight. Likewise, our tankers and transport buddies are pulling it all together, and the fighter pilots out there are doing a superb job protecting the skies over America. I am so proud to be a part of the greatest military in the world! Our first letter hails from the beautiful state of Washington and Dave PELLETIER. His wife, Anne, and daughters Jessica (10), Bailey (5), and Julia (3) hope this war is over soon so they see Dave more. We agree! The Pelletier’s greatest wish for 2002 is very simple: Peace. Well said. We also heard from John and Holly WARDEN, who are still enjoying the Midwest in the great towns of Knob Noster and Warrensburg, MO. John is a B-2 instructor pilot, and Holly is President of the Officers’ Spouses’ Club. Their two-year-old daughter Ashley keeps them on the move as well her most favorite things are Elmo and the Baby Jesus from their nativity set. -

Gary and Christy KAYSER-COOK say hello with BIG news the birth of their second daughter, Haley, who arrived on my birthday (21 Nov) weighing 8 pounds and 10 ounces. CONGRATS! -

flight that crashed in Pennsylvania. And, a family friend, Ed States, was the captain of the American Airlines flight that crashed in Queens in November. Ed’s wife is in Dave’s Reserve unit, and Ed was a former Reservist. His funeral was very moving, with numerous airline pilots and military personnel present all in uniform. Many families are suffering a great deal in these trying times, and our thoughts and prayers go out to them. Thanks Dave. The newly weds from Utah report all is well with their new union. Jeremy HORN married Kelli Hafermann in March with a beautiful wedding in Seattle. Jeremy recently completed A-10 requal here at Barksdale AFB, and is now working with the reserves at Hill AFB. Jeremy’s kids, Dylan (10) and Cody (7), have a new brother and sister, Michael (6) and Megan (4). The family attends a wonderful Baptist church in Layton, and all are active in the AWANA club and Sunday school. Michael and Cody were baptized this fall congrats! Jeremy also acquired his civilian pilot’s license, so flying with the kids has become a regular “family-time” outing. Although Kelli isn’t very excited about flying with one engine, she’s going to be brave and give it a whirl! Best of luck Jeremy and family! One of my CS-39 buddies, Doug MALONE, announces he is finally leaving England for the U.S. -

Haley, Christy, Emily, and Gary enjoy the holidays! Besides being a mom to Haley and Emily (3), Christy is keeping busy at work as Assistant Director of Operations for the Operations Support Squadron at McConnell AFB. She spent a week with the Navy as the tanker coordinator for a multi-service exercise on the USS Mount Whitney. From her Christmas letters, Christy says both Donna (GINN) ALVARADO and Jody (GUTHALS) MERRITT had babies in December. Dawn (LONGWELL) WERNER and her husband, Eric, had a baby boy 12 Sept. Ty THOMAS is currently CINCTRANSCOM’s aide and getting ready to move. In their off time, Christy and Gary traveled to Carlsbad Caverns and White Sands in New Mexico, and the breathtaking Lake Powell. Additionally, they took their new 5th-wheel on its maiden voyage to Keystone Lake. My pilot training Class 90-14 partner in crime Eric CHANDLER is on the move he, Shelley, and Sam (1 1 12) are relocating from Ogden, UT to Duluth, MN. With the uncertain future in the airlines, Shmo joined the Minnesota Air National Guard and is back flying the F-16 for Uncle Sam. He is on a year of military leave with United, and upon completion, plans on going part time with the guard. Shelley (ZUEHLKE, ’87) left active duty this year to be a full-time mom, but took a non-paying Air Force Reserve job as an Admissions Liaison Officer to stay “blue.” Eric enjoyed some time off this year participating in a skiing and running marathon, noting that skiing is easier! He, Shelly, and Sam did some hiking into the Wasatch and visited the Great Basin National Park, where they walked among the 3000-year-old bristlecone pine trees. You’ll have to ask Eric where the pictures are... From the Northeast comes our next letter Dave OLTORIK, who is glad -

to still be on the payroll with Uncle Sam.

Dave, recently furloughed from USAirways, is spending a lot of time with the Reserves at McGuire AFB, NJ flying the KC-10. His unit was busy after 9-11 flying homeland defense missions, and is now tied up with deployments supporting OEF. Also with the Reserves are J. J. MAZZA, Morgan KYLE, and Mark SLIMKO (all full time with American Airlines), and Andy RAMA and Ken ROSENQUEST (both with FedEx). Additionally, Matt LLOYD and John DELAPP are active duty at McGuire flying the C-141. Greg BASHKOFF, flying with Delta, has been with the New Jersey Guard flying the KC-135, but may be out by now. Heather (SCHOFIELD) Posey has been off active duty for a couple years and was also recently furloughed from USAirways. Dave says in spite of all the furloughs, he still feels very fortunate. His neighbor, LeRoy HOMER (‘87), was the first officer on the United Airlines

Jacqui, Doug, Will, Thomas, and Yukon living the good life at Lakenheath. Doug will continue flying the Strike Eagle at Seymour Johnson, and Jacqui will work on her degree. Jacqui is bringing up Will to love horses just like his mom, the only difference being Will hasn’t broken any bones (yet)! Good luck with the move! Another CS-39 cohort, Jeff CASHMAN, writes with a few updates on some fellow Jedi Knights. Dann CARLSON is at Nellis as Thunderbird 8 (the narrator)

listen for him at an airshow near you this summer. Ed REDMAN

recently upgraded to B-2 IP at Whiteman. Dennis and Nicole (KLEINSMITH) MORTON just gave birth to their fourth child. They live in Dallas where Morty “builds the systems behind Network Operations Centers, the stuff that manages the equipment that provides voice and/or data services (DSL too).” Joe DOYLE is the Deputy Commander/Operations Officer at the Security Forces Academy at Lackland AFB, TX. Cash, flying F-16s with the Vermont ANG, says one of his additional duties is as an Academy Liaison Officer. He noticed in the Academy catalog that Mel DELICH is an assistant hockey coach. Mike HOHLS called Cash last month when he stopped over at the Burlington, VT airport with United Airlines. Good to hear from you! A few tidbits...Gil PETRINA and his wife, Carolyn, are finally together! Carolyn separated from the Navy and joined Gil in Missouri, where he is a B-2 IP and ADO in the 325th Bomb Squadron. Tony POLLIZZI, wife, Raquel, and son Dominic are finishing up their tour in Puerto Rico.. .next assignment TBD. Angelle and I found out recently our child, due Valentine’s Day 02, is a son! Paul W. Tibbets V will join the Tibbets family mid February. Additionally, we will PCS this summer to Newport, RI for Naval Command and Staff College. We feel fortunate to be selected to study with the Navy, and look forward to the year in the northeast. your families. Take care and God bless.

Best wishes to you and

James Sanchez 8301 Emerald Circle North Richland Hills, TX 76180 Home: (817) 946-1802

E-Mail:

james.sanchez@usafa90.com

WEB: USAFA90.COM Percent members: 36

Here are updates from 9/01

'if W&Smll

\pww

12/01: Howard GLEASON: “My wife, Carolyn, works as a civilian for the Air Force

Dave, Andrew (3), Christopher (5), Lauren (1), and Suzanna enjoy a long weekend in London.

in the Pentagon (SAF/FMBOP). She was at work when the plane hit, and is fine (whew!!). She also says that the Air Force didn’t lose any active duty or 117

civilian personnel in the attack on the Pentagon, and doesn’t think they lost any active duty or civilian personnel in any of the other attacks.” Barbara EAST: “Got married last summer to Maj Mark Cooter (another intel type). He should pin on Lt Col in Dec and we are off to Nellis next summer where he will be the CC for the 547th IS.” Elizabeth (CHARLES) EIDAL: “Curt and I are well here in Hawaii. We found a nice place off base, as we won’t be able to get on base housing for a year or so. It’s not near the beach, but really, how far is any place on this

island from the beach.”

"Send pictures or see me in every issue.

”

Bryan BATT: “KK and I are moving to Marietta GA to be the J-Model acceptance pilot at the Lockheed plant... pretty sweet job.” Derek ABEYTA: “We just had our fifth child on 8 Oct

—

and definite last

Dylan Andrew Abeyta weighed in at 7 lbs 1 oz and was 20 1/2 inches long. He kind of evened now two boys and three girls. Tabi is doing great! Still the playing field here at Kirtland AFB and praying for our troops as they answer the call to as

Matt ROUSH: “Lisa and I are expecting our second child the end of Janu-

ary. I’m still flying for American Airlines out of New York. We moved to Connecticut in July to be closer to my wife’s family. Still flying C-141s out of McGuire AFB with the USAFR.” Sam SKAGGS: “Darlene, Luke, and I have recently moved to Dyess AFB TX, after crossflowing to the C-130 from tankers. Moving right before the

holidays... I don’t recommend it. However, I’m not complaining, as our brethren are elsewhere fighting the good fight. Me, I don’t even have a job right now! Life is good, and I’m just looking forward to 20 days of leave over the holidays and my 10th wedding anniversary. God bless our deployed personnel, and may you all have a very merry Christmas and a joyous new year.” Clay PFLIEGER: “So far the T-6 has been great! We are working hard here at Moody getting the first class of students up and flying. As much as the T-6 is fun to fly, I am looking forward to getting back into the tanker. We all wish everyone a safe and happy holiday season. To those out there working hard, keep kicking Osma’s butt. GO AIR FORCE!” Ben DAVIS: “Starting this summer, I will be spending a year as a student at the Air Command and Staff College there, the school for new majors. We are excited to move on from our memories of Dayton, the world of Air Force acquisition, and the F-22 fighter program (which has finally entered production!).” Shannon (GREGORY) YENCHESKY: “I separated from the Air Force in July ’01, and am currently waiting for a flight officer position with either UPS or United Airlines. My husband, Dan (CS-27), separated in July also, and is now flying with the Milwaukee ANG. We live in Milwaukee, WI with our two girls, ages four and one.”

I had things taken care of this past summer.

Carson Tavenner

—

defend freedom.”

Joe RICHARDSON: “Blessings to you and all of the most Glorious Class! We are doing well here at Robins AFB, GA. We are approaching our fourth year here and are enjoying our JSTARS tour. We still haven’t received the call to go yet but our thoughts and prayers are with all those warriors who have. I wanted to give notice of the birth of our third child, Nathan Isaiah Richardson. He was born on 9 October 01 (which happens to be my birthday!) weighing in at 9 lb., 1.6 oz. and 21 inches long. He and mother (Felicia) are doing wonderful.” Scott and Charity GROGGEL: “Many of you know that Scott was furloughed from United Airlines this month. We have moved to Cheyenne,

WY, so that Scott can work on a more full-time basis with his Air Guard unit. We will be traveling to Guatemala in three to four weeks to pick up the first of our sons, John who is four months old. We have started the adoption process again to bring home our son Nate who is 5.5 months

old and hope that he will be home around March 2002.” Forrest HARE: “We are out here at Ramstein supporting Centcom and planning for when Enduring Freedom comes to a theater near us. We’ll be busy for quite a while. We had our second child about five months You can check out the pictures at: ago, Forrest Benjamin. www.hareroofing.com/harehouse” Jessica (BLANCHETTE) Woelbling: “Jeff and I are proud to announce the birth of our second daughter, Maiya Victoria Woelbling. She was born on 29 Oct 01 and joins big sister Ashlynn who will be three on Dec 7th. We are still in the Louisiana ANG in New Orleans and enjoying that, although my husband is getting ready to deploy for a few months.” Brian NOVOTNY: “Family and I pcsd from the flesh peddler job at AFPC last summer to Beale AFB. To all those classmates I had a chance to help, I was glad to help and just buy me a beer one day if we meet TDY. To Jill SINGLETON, sorry you had to be join spouse with the only intel targeteer qualified to teach at Goodfellow that cycle... It was nice to see that intel still had 35 folks from the class still in for the long haul...” Rob RYSAVY: “Since everyone else is having babies, Michelle and I thought we’d join the crowd. Mark Isaac, October 4th, joins sister

4414C Bighorn Drive USAF Academy, CO 80840

(719) 472-5942

Igillltfly

E-mail: carson.tavenner@usafa.af.mil Percent members: 44

Wow! There was so much that happened during the reunion last fall,

and I didn’t even get to see all of it, that I hardly even now where or how to start telling you about it! I suppose I could start by just telling you what we did and share some stories along the way. On Wednesday, the event officially started with a reception by the pool in the Sheraton. The choice of using the Sheraton for our reunion turned out to be a really great one for us, because the biggest drawback of using that hotel (the greater distance south from the Zoo) turned out to be no big deal, since post-9/11 events had pretty much shut out our options for visiting the Academy grounds in the first place. As a result, we had a very elegant atmosphere, great prices, and superb service from all aspects of the Sheraton business. I know of hardly a single complaint, and that’s saying a lot! Anyway, that first evening we were really trying to stay on top of the business side of the reunion, with registrations, payment, communicat-

ing the schedule of events, etc. I noticed of course that there were all kinds of wonderful reunions between friends occurring right there in the lobby, between the main entrance and the registration table the AOG was running for us. Some people took over almost an hour just to cross the distance of the lobby, as they were stopped, greeted, hugged, and brought back to memories and laughter. Eventually, though, we got everyone taken care of. I particularly remember getting to see Sean LOGAN very early on in the reunion, and being utterly impressed with how good he looked. That was the same experience I had over and over again during

Alexandra (9) and brother Robert (7). At 91bs 1.5oz & 21 inches he is the shortest and lightest of the three. I have been a Reservist for the last couple of years, but now I am back in the Air Force ‘for at least six months, and then we’ll see’ as the commander told me. Working in the Space Warfare Center at Schriever in Colorado Springs.” Jeff “Chevy” BOZARD: “After three years in F-15s at Kadena, I’m now at Tyndall teaching the same. Have been here for about 1.5 years in the First Fighter Squadron with Pat “Tiny” MCNELIS.”

Akshai GANDHI: “Life in the Guard is great. Merri is taking over a dental practice the first of next year and we’re settled into our new house in Columbia, SC. Nick ‘Stalker’ GENTILE, Mike ‘Slots’ LIGHTNER and myself are the three ’90 grads in the South Carolina ANG at McEntire ANGS.” John D HALL IV: “I separated from active duty on 30 April 2000 and moved from Little Rock, AR to Charlotte, NC. I am now in the North Carolina Air National Guard and am a Second Officer on 727s for Federal Express.” 118

Presenting the Official Flag of the Class of 1991! This Hag will remain on Active Duty until there is only one of us left.

the course of the reunion as I saw one familiar face after another: Mark

the room to even go back to their own hotel room to change for the

POWERS, Wayne COOPER, Brian HANDSHOE, Joyce (ELMORE) MERL, Dave DAMRATH...and oh, you can imagine how the list goes on and on.

evening. It was, certainly, a grand time. The next day, Saturday, was party day. The football game and the festivities downtown and around town afterwards were the right time to start slowing down, settling into the little groups we’d gathered together, and just enjoy the beautiful sunny day. I was exhausted at this point! The tailgate food and drink was wonderful, and of course the Falcons seized the day on the field, defeating Wyoming 24 to 13. Naturally. The remainder of the afternoon, evening and night was free for people to party as they pleased. Here’s a picture of a few of Angie WALLACE’S friends showing us what they thought of being together in the Springs once again.

What a joy to be with you all again! Not to mention the relief of finally

getting this show on the road! Thursday was an open day for all to just enjoy the area and, for most of the attendees, to show up and get settled into their hotel rooms, register, etc. All day long the happy greetings continued, and at some point (I can’t remember when, exactly) I started hearing the distinct sound of Leigh MEROLA’s smile breaking out all over the place. You should make sure to go to the usafa91 website and see how happy everyone was. I don’t really know all that transpired on Thursday, but on Friday we started to gather up at the Zoo for some tours and talks. Afterwards came the reunion retreat ceremony, a gathering inside the chapel for a group photo and that, unfortunately, was about the extent of our experiences “on the hill.” Though the next day, we had a great time enjoying the fields of friendly strife inside Falcon Stadium. Eventually we got to the most anticipated part of the reunion (at least from my perspective it was), the Friday night dinner, where over 500 of us, grads and spouses, sat down together in the full ballroom of the Sheraton hotel. I got some really great help from those who’d showed early in the evening with getting programs and coins passed out on the tables many thanks to those of you who were there to help out! I really appreciated that part in particular. If you weren’t there, it’s a shame you didn’t get to see it: the Sheraton staff had done a great job preparing the -

ballroom for a very memorable event. I could tell that the hotel was so glad to have us there, not only for the business (9/11 had taken a big bit out of recent events) but also because the Class of ‘91 is plainly a fun group to have around! The Class of 1991 seemed to be enjoying itself to no end. And the food they served was absolutely the best, as well! You’re

going to have to make sure to come join us for the 15-year reunion, which earlier might have been seen as optional, but now has become a foregone conclusion! One of the greatest group experiences of the whole reunion came soon

after our guest speaker, George “Tremendous” Mendes, began his address to the class. He was just starting to tell another tale of Mitchell Hall when a voice broke out loud and clear over the generally hushed murmuring of the crowd, “WE LOVE YOU, GEORGE!” To which, of course, the entire ballroom of Bold Golders broke out into raucous cheering, clapping and whistling. You might say George liked this. Shortly after that bit of cheering and yelling, the grads sitting closer to the front of the room started to notice the sort of dessert accompaniments the wait-staff was starting to bring out to the tables (whipped cream and chocolate syrup), and you could hear little by little more and more mention of that famous-butlong-lost dessert. Could it be true? Were we really going to get...? Yes, YES, YES! And as the Mitch’s Mountains were carried out from the kitchen

platters, the whole room once again broke out into loud and happy cheers. I don't recall our class getting quite so excited about anything since that day long ago when the staff tower announced LtCol Steele’s coming departure from USAFA. Well, from there the night turned in a more thoughtful and reflective direction as we watched a presentation of pictures commemorating our lost classmates: Tony BOFFA (whose mother and sister were in attendance), Greg CINDRICH, Bill GRACE (whose parents were in attendance), Ed MOODY, Marty THEER, and Kim (HARMON) WIELHOUWER. We had a special table set up for them in the front and center of the room, and Greg’s wife, Monica, had written a letter to the class, which we posted up on

Wishingyou werehere! The reunion was great! Itwas better than CATS!” So, what next? 15-year reunion, you say? All right! Who wants to plan it? I got a great offer from Leigh MEROLA to help out... but of course we

don’t know where we’ll be at that point, and so time will tell. Before leaving you, here’s some news and photos to share; this is just as good a time and place as any from which to tell you and show you. The local paper, once the Gazette Telegraph, now merely the Gazette, turned to Noel FULTON for his opinion of The Lord of the Ring recently. According to Noel, “Great movie, really followed the books pretty well. Some small things, but otherwise just visually stunning.” I’d have to agree! From Paul BAUMAN in December, “I just got back from 25 days out on Enduring Freedom missions. Let me tell you, there’s a lot of stuff to move and not enough C-17s to do it! We're really busy. Don’t think I’ll be home for Xmas this year, but there’s always hope. It’s nice being the AC again, and doing important work.” From Joyce (ELMORE) MERL also in December, “I am getting ready to

PCS to Crystal City, VA in January. Not much else has been going on but

staying busy with my nine-month-old daughter, Kira. I am so busy trying to move that I still haven’t developed my photos from the reunion.” Finally, I’ve wanted to include this photo from Sue HENKE (received nearly one year ago!), and with all that had been going on, I simply didn’t keep track of it. But now things are smoother, and I found it again going through my piles of papers. These ladies were freshmen roommates together, and had their own mini-Trolls Reunion in San Francisco. Thanks for writing, Sue!

for all to see and read. Dinner was formally concluded, but you can imagine the large number of grads and spouses who were still hanging out chatting and drinking several hours later. I went back to the ballroom from where I was hanging out even after 11:00, and there were still groups there who hadn’t left

From left are Tammy (Moore) Marsini, Sue Henke, Leslie (Beavers) Brennan and Angie Wallace. Troll-like they aren’t!

We’ll see you all out there, okay? In the meantime, stay safe, eat well, and enjoy your springtime. Love to all, Tav

Visit the AOG Web Site

Merchandise,

Gone But Not Forgotten and More! Art “I can’t believe we planned the whole thing” Romero and Carson “I can’t believe this still fits” Tavenner: Your Servants in Blue.

www.aog-usafa.org 119

Cara had a new addition to the family in October. He has run into many ‘92ers there who have returned to the nest. When they first got to the Springs, they stayed with Scotty and Joelyn (TAYLOR) NOWLIN. Joelyn is staying home with their two daughters and Scotty is an instructor at

James S. Mehta Box 5363

Carmel, CA 93921-5363 (831) 622-0752 E-mail: jamesmehta@earthlink.net Percent members: 37

vlllpiiw

Time Flies. I am glad to see everything is slowly returning to normal. I have quite a few e-mails for this column, but I probably missed some since in early December, my e-mail address stopped working, so I switched to jamesmehta@earthlink.net. If you sent me an e-mail to my old address after Thanksgiving, unfortunately I probably didn’t get it, so please send it again. Electronic mail bag. Craig “Kegger” WENZ saw his name in the ‘91 column in the last issue and got the impetus to write. Craig just wanted to

confirm the rumors about him. I’m not sure if the order he listed this info should be taken as being significant... “1. Yes, I am heading back to the desert on 17 December 01; 2. Yes, I just bought a house in New Jersey; 3. Yes, I am in the Reserves; 4. Yes, I had a job interview with JetBlue; 5. Yes, I

got engaged to Rose (who I have been seeing for four years).” Congrats,

Kegger! I can’t believe you’re really taking the plunge. Rob ATKINS updated me on his career at BNSF Railway in California. He and Jenn bought a house in Turlock, CA and their sons Payton and Evan are doing well. Rob is working on his master’s degree through online courses which is great since his work schedule is so irregular. Michelle and I hope to take a trip to visit them this year. My old Edwards AFB roommate, Lyle SHIDLA, told me that Blaine RASCH got married in November to a woman from Little Rock. He didn’t provide too many details, so I’ll wait for Blaine to do that himself.. .Blaine?

My most detailed letter was from Joe DELAPP. I guess since he has been saving up for the last 10 years, it’s not surprising. Joe and I were smacks in CS-39 and we started our first days as 2nd Lts on casual status up the road from here at Lawrence Livermore National Labs. Since he has so much info, I’ll let him tell you in his own words...(with a little editing from me). “I’m writing you from Osan, we’re I’ve been for a whole two weeks,.. .two

the zoo. David SOUZA and his wife, Chris, have a son named Geoffrey and Dave is working AEF issues for AF SPACECOM. Jeff and Alisha STAMP are at USAFA where Jeff is teaching history. Steve GLENNDENNING is working at Cheyenne Mountain. Dean also met Brook LEONARD’S grandfather who is the founder of the Village Seven church in the Springs where Dean and Cara are members. Finally, at a local restaurant he ran into Lt

Col Bronder who was CS-05 AOC when we were there. Lt Col Bronder Randolph doing a fly-by and visiting his son who is now a cadet. Thanks for the letter, Dean. Local ‘92ers in Monterey. Ted ANDERSON is now here in Monetary at Defense Language Institute with me. He and his wife, Ellen, are taldng Spanish in preparation for an assignment to the Spanish AF Academy. Ted almost didn’t make it to California, as the packers were at his house on Sept 11, but his commander made sure his PCS was not interrupted. Ted and Ellen will be in San Javier, Spain for a few years and he expects to get some flying time in their advanced trainer the CASA 101 Aviojet and hopefully the basic trainers, E-26 Tamiz and the CASA 212 Transport. After over a year of being here, Michelle and I finally made it to dinner with Josh and Kristin KUTRIEB. Josh just finished up his master’s in Engineering at Naval Postgraduate School and is headed to Eglin. Fortunately, Josh called me about 10 days before they were to PCS and we made sure to get together. It was a nice dinner and we should have done it earlier. Josh was still working on his thesis and was pushing hard to get it done before graduation. I’m sure he made it. I also saw an anwas up from

nouncement that he was selected for the USAF Award for those graduat-

ing in December 01. Congratulations, Josh! Old Tarantulas. Michelle and I had the chance to visit Steve and Kay WOLF in Hawaii in November. They are at Kaneohe Marine Corps Base where Steve is the Headquarters Company Commander. We got in a round of golf and Kay made us a wonderful dinner.

By the next issue, I should be able to announce a new addition to their family! It was great

finally see them again after their time in Germany.

down, 50 to go! Actually Osan has come a long way since I visited here for OPS AF some 10+ years ago. I’m assigned to the 36 FS Fiends (F-16CGs) and am having a good time so far. “Where to begin: Left Livermore for UPT at Sheppard (94-03); went from

ENJJPT to Ramstein AB 37th AS (C-130E’s) for 3+ years, got picked up for fighter crossflow to Luke AFB for F-16 RTU Feb 98, Requal and IFF at Randolph Spring 98, F-16 B-course till Feb 99, Shaw AFB 78 FS Mar 99 to Oct 01 and here I am at Osan...all that in almost 10 years! “As far as other Grads: Brian DELAMATER (CS-10), my old roommate, is

doing well in his F-16 assignment as a ‘Gomer’ in the adversary tactics squadron at Nellis. He is married to Mary Irene and their first child due is December. Tim STONG just signed a five-year bonus and is stationed at Pope flying the C-130. I ran into Kelly (KIRKPATRICK) MENOZZI at the Hard Rock Casino during one of my many Vegas TDYs; she and JJ are doing well at Mt Home (F-16 CJs and KC-135s). Dave NERYisn’t one to write too much but I’m pretty sure he is at Seymour Johnson with the F-15E Strike Eagle, married to Bridget, but I’m not sure about kids. Sean and Bobbi MURPHY are doing well out at Travis back in the C-5 after some time in the T-37 at Vance. They have two boys and I think are looking at going back to Vance in the Reserves. Ed LEABO: he and Leigh Ann are at Sheppard after Ed did his F-15C tour up in Alaska. They have been there for a couple of years, and may be looking at life after the Air Force. (Tim, Kelly, Dave, Sean, and Ed were all with Joe and me as Cool Campus Rads 4 degree year.) Brian SANFORD (ENJJPT 94-03) and Tami are at Corpus Christi, TX, after some time at Pope in the C-130, with two kids. Kip WILKOWSKI (ENJJPT 94-03) is doing real well at Shaw (F-16 CJs) in the 77 FS, after some C-130 time at DM andT-34 time at Whiting Field NAS. Dave SMITH and I were some of the few ‘92ers at Shaw (F-16 CJ’s) 78 FS. Dave headed from Shaw to Moody AFB to fly AT-38s; he and Stacey (’93) are doing well. Chuck HOWARD and John COSGROVE both do a lot of flying with my older brother John (’89) in C-141s at McGuire. “That’s about all I can remember right now. As for me, Julie (my wife) and I have a little four-month-old boy (Charles Joseph DeLapp III, aka “Little Joe" born 26 Jun 01) and they are back at Shaw right now selling the house and will be out here in Korea before Christmas.” Nicole (FOSTER) and Jeff GREENWOOD announced the arrival of Garrett Jeffrey who was born on Sept 16, weighing in at 7 lbs, 9 oz and has already been baptized on Sept 30 in the Catholic Church. Congratuladons, Nicole and Jeff! Just too late. Dean BOERRIGTER sent me an e-mail a day after I sent in my last column. So here’s his info a little late. He and his wife, Cara, are back in the Springs stationed at Peterson at USSPACECOM. Dean and 120

Dave Kumashiro moonlighting in the ice cream shop he and some others at Travis have

opened in Davis, CA. July2001.

Got an e-mail from Nicole (FOSTER) GREENWOOD to include a photo of the Greenwood clan. Garrett Greenwood was born n Sept 16. Father

Jeff found out he was selected for the Air Force Intern Program, so they will be PCSing to D.C. in May 2002 and will be there for 13 months. Nicole is working to get an IMA slot out there so she can work locally. She is

working a deal to get hired on by a former boss at the Defense Logistics

The Greenwoods: Jeff, Nicole, Garrett and Jazzie

Agency’s Corporate Communication Directorate and work Congressional Affairs. If that doesn’t pay out, she probably will work somewhere in Public Affairs at the Pentagon. Getting close to our reunion. Don’t forget to start planning to attend our reunion. Check the AOG Website for info and dates. I’m looking forward to seeing you there. True Blue ’92. James.

Scott HARBORT checks in letting us know that we already have more rank in our class and our major’s board isn’t until October (‘02). Chris CRONCE knows how to work the rank issues as he was promoted to major on 2 Jun 2001. Chris is in the Air Force Reserves and obviously does more than the minimum required. Chris was stationed at L.A. AFB when he got off of active duty and into his Reserve component. Congratulations Chris you are the man! Scott hears from Chris (FRISBEE) Van Poppel every now and then. She has her first child and is now a full-time mom (awesome)! She lives at the notorious Hudson High where her husband is an instructor. Jim GEHRINGER passed through on his way from Korea to Germany. Last, but not least, Don CLOUD (Scott’s former roomie) just joined combat communications at Langley AFB. I am sure he is pretty busy right about now. -

Itv

Michael D. Sundsted 4530 East Castle Drive

McGuire AFB, NJ 08641

(609)724-0866 DSN: 650-3319

E-mail: Bravecwboy@aol.com Class Website: www.highflight.com Percent members: 86

Merhaba! Hope the New Year and Spring finds you very well! I am sure things have been busy for everyone of late especially if you are involved with any of the current operations overseas or the states. Lori, Collin and I are doing great! I apologize to anyone that I may forget in the following -

article. Since 9/111 have been away from home for about four months deployed to Turkey and then for December and January in Bahrain. I would like to thank all of you (especially your family members) who may be affected by the significant increase in operations tempo. As I write this I am in Bahrain flying into all the places you saw on CNN and Fox News. It’s phenomenal to see all the great teamwork out here all that great training being put to use! Okay, okay, I’ll hush about the -

hoorah, yeahrah! On to the news... My first report on fellow graduates comes from my deployment in TurI was there for about 40 days and ran into Dave RIDDLE, Carol HERON, Julia ANDERSON, Jon DOTTER (ran into Jon in Germany and

key.

Italy) and Deron CHRISTY. I know I am forgetting someone apologies. Dave RIDDLE is flying the metal off of C-130s out of Ramstein, Germany. He is mounting hours left and right flying low and slow! Julia ANDERSON is hopefully out of Turkey by the time you read this she expected to be in Turkey until March 02. She had lots of fun traversing all of the -

historical cities in the area. Deron CHRISTY also flies KC-135S. While in

Turkey he spent half his time as assistant director of operations, one quarter of his time flying missions and one quarter of his time drinking beer and eating hamburgers by the picnic tent at the Hodja Inn. Carol HERON is a mission scheduler/planner and flies with Julia and Deron. In the last issue I mentioned that I lost Jason KIMBEL’s information.

My apologies again, but I did remember to hit “print” this time...so here goes. Jason and his wife, Jessica, live in Las Vegas. He ended up there after enjoying his time in the “space world.’’ He now works as a test engineer on the F-22 program. Jason and Jessica now have a second son, Colbey, to entertain their first, Jared. Hopefully the television show, Family Feud, has re-runs because Jason and Jessica were on it! Survey says.... That’s right, Jason, one of our class’ trivia buffs wiggled his way on the show with Jessica’s mother, sister and her sister’s husband, Mike ROKAW (‘92). Sidebar RIDDLE, RICE, and TUCKER isn’t ROKAW the guy that gave you a hard time four-degree year? Now you got something on him! The show aired this past fall. They (no kidding) managed to pull off the BIG WIN, but Mike Rokaw got the “Worst Answer of the Day.” Jason ran -

into some classmates while they were on a T-38 cross-country. Waylon RICHARDS flew to Las Vegas for his fini-flight before his wife had a son

and he headed off to C-17 school at Altus. (Oh that sounds like lots of fun.) Jimmy SPARROW flew in as well from Sheppard AFB, TX. Thanks for the great update and I hope this makes you happy Jessica!

As far as Scott is concerned, he separated from the AF in 1998 after enjoying L.A. AFB for a few years. He finished his MBA at the University of Southern California (hardship tour) and has since moved to Cincinnati/ Dayton. He often wonders how a Georgia boy wound up in the north (I

wonder too!), but he insists that he loves it. Scott is a successful home-

building business owner.

He and his wife, Janet, have two sons, Joe (4) and Steven (almost 2). Thanks for the great update Scott!

The McGuire clan is doing well

Frank FLIETAS moved on to C-5s at

Dover, Ken EDGE works with me as a Training Flight Commander, Steve ODUM is still roaming around base, Dane CHRISTIANSEN works as a command post duty officer when he is not flying the KC-10. Oh, because we

hang out with them and my son likes their daughter, Isabella, I thought I would mention Mark (‘91) and Julia MACDONALD. Matt KENWORTHY has recently requalified in the C-141 and will more than likely be an instructor very soon. Lance ORR is now back from about a three-month tour at Prince Sultan Air Base for Operation Enduring Freedom. Let’s just say Lance is one of the most “intelligent” people I know! He and his wife, Manuela, have a fine young son named. Liam. He and my son Collin enjoy playing with each other’s toys even though they have about the same things. Kevin and Kelly KOSFESKI came to Philadelphia prior to Christmas and we were able to enjoy a nice lunch with them. Kevin was deployed in the Middle East at a very forward location being the hero that he is for Operation Enduring Freedom. Kevin and Kelly have a new arrival, Megan, to go with their too cute son, Matthew. It was definitely great seeing them. Lee SPECHLER gave me a call one night and said he would bring his mighty A10 Hawg to New Jersey so I could get some hero shots, but then called the next day and said he couldn’t because he couldn’t fly through clouds or something like that (tee hee Lee!). Unfortunately, Lee decided he wanted to go fly a low-level towards Nebraska and Colorado and harass the resi-

dents of Offutt, Nebraska instead of coming to see me and drinking my Cherry Wheat homebrew. He claims he did nothing illegal (and I am sure he didn’t). Maybe next time Lee. Lee will be participating in a deployment somewhere in the Middle East rather soon. Good luck my man. Oh, here is a request regarding our upcoming reunion next year. Wispy SPEROS and I will begin to work on it soon and we ask that if you have any ideas for an itinerary please let us know via a phone call or e-mail. Also, my little hand-held address keeper decided to dump every single address in it so now I lost most of those who have written in the past. In lieu of the above I ask that you please send me a quick e-mail with your address and phone number so I can update my computer’s address book new

and also go on line to the AOG web site to update your information there. If you are really abject to technology, just pick up the phone and call the AOG number listed at the front of this book and tell the individual you would like to update your record and address and they should direct you to the appropriate address. Many thanks in advance. Tony LOMELIN checks in from Purdue University. Tony is now the commandant of cadets (ha ha he writes) for AFROTC detachment 220 at Purdue. He has been there for two years and says he has become quite nostalgic,

especially after working at a “real university.” What he’s trying to say is that his cadets have it real good. Give 'em a taste of the zoo Tony! Tony and his wife, Shane, have two children, Kylie and Nathan. They are moving to Wash-

Waylon, Jason and Jared and Jimmy Jeff JANEY wrote me a four-line e-mail checking in and letting us know he is in Chile on business.

Hopefully he can hook up with Fernando SILVA while he is down there. He said he would write back with a good update when he returns. Looking forward to the update!

TonyLomelin and his troops. 121

ington, DC this summer so he can work on space-based reconnaissance sounds complicated. Thanks for the e-mail satellite contracts. Whew and looking forward to hearing from you more often. He insists that once he gets to D.C. anyone can look him up! We’ll take you up on that! Just got a last minute email from Lee SPECHLER giving us great news! Bruce and Tamara MUNGER recently had a baby girl! Laurel was born in

he ever thought possible, Jeremy balances that with the opportunity to work with several former OSI agents and USAFA grads that have joined the bureau. Jeff HERBST is putting his leadership skills to work as a Module Leader for John Deere in Bettendorf, LA, responsible for the Quad Cities area of Iowa and Illinois. Also loving civilian life is Marine Chuck McGREGOR, who e-mailed

Fairbanks, Alaska on 2 Jan 01. Well, hopefully when you get this I will be back in New Jersey and not

from Charlotte, NC, where he and Kari are living with Robby (2) and expecting baby #2. In ‘99, Chuck was hired directly by Ross Perot to work for his information technology company, Perot Systems Corporation and is now in a director position in Charlotte. Chuck highly recommends pursuing an advanced degree before seeking civilian employment, as he credits his MBA as a differentiator in the hiring process (although I’m sure his excellent military record didn’t hurt!). Chuck and Kari are thoroughly enjoying parenthood and the Charlotte area and would love to know of any classmates nearby... While lots of folks are making it work on the outside, Jane (DECKER) and Jeff GIBSON (‘95) prove every day that the dual military family can be wonderful as well. Jane is a training officer in the Space Control Cen-

sitting by a pool at a five-star hotel in Bahrain

kidding. Seriously we’re

in tents. Take care and until next time... CHEERS

Mike.

C. C. Masotti 7608 Southern Oak Drive

Springfield, VA 22153 Home: (703) 644-4332 Work: (703) 697-1383 or DSN 227-1383 Fax: (703) 695-8884 or DSN 225-8884 E-mail: bowhead94@hotmail.com Percent members: 76

ter at Cheyenne Mountain and Jeff is a flight commander for a regional

Hi again, ’94! I missed you guys last quarter, but didn’t Maria and Matt write a terrific column? Thanks, you two! As I write today, the first “official”

year of the new millennium has come and gone and I find myself reminiscing... I remember 10 years ago, sitting in Arnold Hall as Gen McPeak told us only 225 of us would go to pilot training. He said it was because of the post-Gulf War drawdown and that we were welcome to leave the Air Force with no debt or commitment if we had a problem with the decision. We were profoundly affected by a war we’d only seen on CNN. Now, a decade but a lot and three Chiefs of Staff later, we are touched again by war more closely this time. Many experienced first-hand the events of 11 Sep-

recruiting squadron responsible for recruiters in eight states. Despite their busy schedules, they spend lots of quality time with Regan (9), Sarah (3), and Jason (2) and were even able to take a two-week family vacation to Florida for a Disney World pilgrimage, Sea World visit, and parents-only Disney cruise while the kids stayed with Jane’s mom. Jeff’s mom, sisters, and niece joined them for part of the visit too, so Jeff and Jason were just a bit outnumbered by the ladies!

—

tember or were immediately called to action. Others are affected by stop-

loss measures. Our class has been represented in Operations Northern and Southern Watch, Provide Hope, Allied Force and more; we’ve had classmates deployed to Russia, Turkey, Southwest Asia, Korea, Bosnia, Kosovo, Central and South America, Indonesia, and elsewhere. Now, we have classmates civilian, military, and contractor—leading and supporting troops and missions as part of Operation Enduring Freedom and Noble Eagle, both here in the States and at numerous overseas locations. Rebecca now in C-17 training) was SONKISS (formerly Predator pilot at Nellis quickly deployed to SWA to support the initial phases of the war and got glowing reviews from senior leadership for her efforts. Presidential appointee Bob GOODWIN (Director of Logistics for USAID) was involved soon thereafter coordinating packaging and airlift for literally tons of blankets, —

—

food, and supplies for the citizens of Afghanistan. Trevor SMITH (C-130, Dyess) deployed in early December to support the war effort. He missed Christmas at home, but Jennifer and the kids were able to join him in Germany for a family holiday before he moved closer to the action, and they shared a great pre-deployment family photo. I know a lot more of you are serving all over the globe and I love to get

updates from each of you

one easy way to send your latest news and catch up on our classmates is to check out our class homepage, superbly maintained by Chuck BAIRD. Chuck left the Air Force two years ago to work for an offshore oil drilling company. Though based in Houston, he commutes every other month to Macae, Brazil to do engineering and logistics for a drill ship overhaul job. Despite his busy schedule, he still is able to keep track of tons of folks, including Vance T-38 IPs Ryan CRAYCRAFT and Lance KENT. Checking in from Kirtland were Jeff JOHNSON (MH-53 pilot) and Scott HEYLER (MPF Commander). Scott and his bride, Pam, just bought a home there in Albuquerque to make room for their firstborn, Benjamin Clark (born 15 Oct 01), as well as for visiting USAFA friends. Newlyweds Brian and Clarissa GALLO reported their recent move from Barksdale to the B-2 program at Whiteman, where they’ve run into Craig STEFAN, Todd TUMADINSKI, Mark PYE, Mark SENG and Mike WITTROCK, among others. Also on the move is Lance “Tex” —

WHITFILL (Chief, Financial Services), who was rewarded after a long stint at the Pentagon with an assignment to Hickam.

Though he hasn’t been

there long, he loves the Pacific. Todd OWENS is getting a different taste of the Pacific as a Flight Test Exchange Officer at Gifu AB, Japan; he has another year there, but is hoping to follow it up with a TPS slot. Back on this side of the pond, Byron MIRANDA stays busy as a C-17 pilot at McChord. Though he’s TDY pretty he’d love to see you if he’s in often, call if you’re going to be in the area town. As we get further from graduation, more of our classmates make —

the move to civilian life and are sometimes harder to track. Luckily, Bridget (HUGHES) NERY, Jeremy REBMAN, andJeffHERBST are keeping in touch anyway. Bridget is a civilian training specialist, but I think her husband, Dave (‘92), is still active duty, so she stays close to the action. Jeremy and Snapper (his bride of nearly seven years!) haven’t cut their ties fully either, as he moved from OSI to the FBI and is currently a SWAT Team special agent in Oklahoma. Though he meets more unsavory characters than 122

The Gibson Family

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Jeff, Jane, Regan, Sarah, and Jason.

Back here in the Pentagon I run into classmates and other grads all the time. I’ve seen Tad VANNAMAN and Marty GAUPP briefly in the halls, as well as Air Force Interns Icy LEE, Mike INGERSOLL, Joe KUNKEL, and Fred CUNNINGFLAM. In fact, I’ve been lucky enough to work with both

Joe and Fred. Joe spent the last half of ‘01 assigned to our office (Air Force Foreign Liaison) along with Chris FRANKLIN ('93) and is hoping to get back into Strike Eagles (possibly at Elmendorf) after his program

ends this summer. He’s currently working retention issues in OSD Personnel & Readiness but spends as much time as possible at home with Jen and the kids they have four adorable little ones under the age of six Drew, Madeline, and twins Braden and Riley. As the only girl, Madeline is the apple of her daddy’s eye, but I’ve babysat the kids and can attest that they are ALL precious and well-behaved! Though he doesn’t have kids at home (unless you count the dog!), Fred —

—

CUNNINGHAM stays busy too trying to juggle work, his master’s degree, and time with his bride, Melissa (CUNNINGHAM, ‘96 scribe), who’s —

also in the Intern Program. He came to us after a rotation in Joint Logistics on the Joint Staff but is glad to have the opportunity to, as he puts it, “wine and dine foreign air chiefs and air attaches” with our office and will tour with the Pakistani Air Chief in May. He’s looking forward to returning to the cockpit after the Intern program, entering the tanker crossflow program from C-5s, but wants most of all to be stationed with Melissa. Though he’s only been here a few weeks, Fred’s been a great help already and is working a trip with me for CMSAF Finch and 35 foreign senior NCOs to Nellis in February. While we’re there, we’ll have Red Flag, Thunderbirds and Predator tours, among others, and will get to see the awesome Firepower Demo and even the Wayne Newton show! Coordinating the trip from that end is Margaret “Maggs” MORRIS, who works in Protocol for the Air Warfare Center there at Nellis, so we’ll get to see her too! Although he always sees his fellow Interns, Fred recently bumped into Jesse HERNANDEZ (E-3 AWACS IP, Tinker) here in the build-

ing when he was in town for a TDY. That’s about all the news I have from here, so I’ll wrap up with an old

photo from our 3-degree Dining-In to keep with my current nostalgic mood. Can you believe it’s been 10 years since then? We were just dying to start our summer leadership programs and share our knowledge with a

slot through the Buckley ANG. Good luck, Pun! Paul PEREZ answered the recent call to arms... he’s at an undisclosed location doing the good

work, missing his family and the holidays. Hang in there, Manny

and thanks. Dave RAMIREZ is an SP at Hurlburt Field. Matt WADD is an SP up at Offutt. John GRIFFITH wrote from Kansas City, where he is an FAA air traffic controller. Griff and his wife, Brooke, have a little boy on the way. Take a listen if you are flying through MCI and give him a holler on Guard. Any of you guys remember Tyler Nagel he graduated from the University of Oregon and is now working as an investment banker in Oregon. Tyke just had his first kid a girl. Eric DAS just got married in September. Clarence DUNAGAN is working the ER in North Carolina, saving lives, and working on four hours of sleep a day. Big Ed HOPKINS separated in Dec 1999, and now lives in Tucson, AZ with his wife, Janet, -

and two kids.

Big Ed owns his own financial consulting company (http:/

/www.criterion.fm) and has an open invitation for any of us passing through Tucson for dinner and/or drink (echopkins@criterion.fm). Ed, Flashback... 3rd Class Dining-In, Mitchell Hall, May ’92...

Okay, so we really just wanted to have cars (at least legally), more passes, and be one step closer to graduation, but you get the point. If you see yourself in this photo, give me a ring and tell us what you’ve been up to these past 10 years! Remember to write as soon as possible after you get each Checkpoints if you want to see your inputs in the our deadlines are usually about two weeks after the prevery next issue vious issue is mailed, so it’s a fairly quick turn. This time of year is the most critical, as the May/June issue needs to be published in time for the new grads to get their copies... So write soon, write lots, write often! And feel free to call or stop by if you’re in the area. Take care & God Bless! C.C. new crop of Basics...

Kevin WELLS is working for KPMG Consulting in D.C. with Wade WEGNER and John MURRAY. Kevin is the caretaker of our class

you’re on!

website: www.geocities.com/pentagon/1973 where you can find an email listing of the majority of the class.

—

Don Kang

PSC 3, Box 3874 APO AP 96266

(031) 661-4430 BudaF 16@yahoo. com Percent members: 70

Greetings again from the ROK. Hope everyone had a safe and enjoyable holiday season. A lot’s gone down since my last update our prayers and condolences to anyone who has suffered recently. Also, our prayers and a heartfelt thanks to all the ‘95ers dropping bombs in Afghanistan... when the smoke clears, please send stories and pictures of your good work in defense of this nation and its people. Be safe and get hits. On to the updates: it’s my second hack at this, so if you haven’t heard, I’m the new Checkpoints dude. My email is budafl6@yahoo.com-please keep the updates coming. Without further ado: Jon VEAZEY writes from his new assignment flying the Otter at USAFA. a good POC in case anyone is He also coordinates flybys at the zoo flying by. Currently he is working T-Bird flybys for football games. “JVZ” misses the Here, however, and writes “Of course, Hercules flybys would be better than little F-16s, right?” Amanda (STEFFEY) Finerty wrote from Kadena to tell us that she and husband, Chris, are waiting to separate from the USAF and hoping that stop-loss doesn’t throw a monkey wrench into their plans. Andrea (ROLFE) Misener just got back from SOS and writes to say that ‘95ers are pretty much running the place. She saw Steve KLINGMAN (AWACS, Tinker) and his wife, Tanya (SIMMON). Steve and Tanya just had a baby boy. Also VID’d on the flickerball field were Jim HACKBARTH (C-130, Yokota), Kevin MASSIE, Rich MOTT, Tammy (RIV-

—

ERS) POHLE, John DECKER (RC-135, Offutt), Dave THOMPSON (B-2, Knobnoster), Jason BAILEY (C-130), Larry BAKER, Erik HALVORSON (C130, DM), and Eve BURKE. Andrea is at Columbus flying T-38s with Lou ALDEN, Derek MILLER, Sean WELSH, Jeff D’AMBRA, Shawn ODONNELL, Norm LEE, and Greg HOPKINS. Others flying white jets there include Bonnie (COX) PAQUIN and her husband, Chuck.

An unusually clear day on the ROK makes for a great class pic: (near to far) Jim Collins, Mike Barten, Don Kang, and Steve Boatright.

Here on the ROK, the 1995 reunion continues. With me in the Fiends

flying VIPERS are Matt LILJENSTOLPE, Chris JONES, Mike MAY, Jim COLLINS, Bill BETTS, Ryan SPARKMAN, Mike BARTEN, Doug WICKERT, and Steve BOATRIGHT. “Wilbur” BETTS will soon have a second child and “Bolt” BARTEN is expecting his first. Chad FEUCHT gets here in January from the WIC and is expecting his second child. Scott CAMPBELL is over with the HOGS, along with Andy STONE and Brian MURPHY. Just pass by from Misawa. Dave SUNDLOV is leaving Cannon for his third tour in the VIPER at Misawa. Down at the “Kun”, saw Drew RYDLAND

Mike HENKLEMAN is the Weapons Officer for the Pantons. Jon TINSLEY just left for Luke to join Brad GLENN. Chris HUMMEL is flying VIPERS and thawing his shorts at Eielson. Aaron “Musket” LADE is at Misawa. John RHONE is weapons officer for his AWACS unit at Kadena and drops in and out of Korea frequently. Waiting to hear some more stories as we all filter through Shoe Flag, so if you have a second to pull the SOS pencil out of your eye, send me an update about the scene in lovely Montgomery. Also eager to hear how those of you who threw the towel in are doing on the other side. Send us stories about civilian life and tell us if the grass is greener on the other for those of you sticking around, I heard it through side. On that note —

the grapevine that “they” pushed the major’s boards up another year ear-

Paul “Morning” WOOD is married with two children and is flying B-ls out of Ellsworth. He recently graduated B-l WIC as “Outstanding Gradu-

ate” and received the “Top Stick” award. Paul participated in Operation

Enduring Freedom out of Diego Garcia and did good work dropping iron on the Taliban. Matt “Big Pimpin’’ LOWE writes from Kirtland Air Force Base where he is undergoing six months of HH-60G Pave Hawk training. Matt wants to remind all the fighter guys to keep the beer flowing for our courageous rescue troops. Curt GREEN will be flying Pave Hawks with the Guard in San Francisco. Mike MIRANDA and Bill BAIRD are UH-1 instructors at Fort Rucker. Good news there are still ‘95ers coming through the UPT pipeline... welcome to the fight! Craig LUCEY went through Columbus moving from the back seat of a Mud Hen to the front. Frank BRYANT and Todd BOLLINGER just showed up at the Kun to fly VIPERS. James MCHENRY is flying for the Navy in Pensacola. Alex SANSONE is teaching Aero at the zoo and loving it. I think we talked Alex into joining the dark side he is looking into getting a UPT -

Ryan Sparkman sneaking a pic from the backseat: (near to far): Bill Betts, Flying high over the ROK, searching for airspace. Ron Berzins, and Frank Bryant.

123

Her... fence in! As always, keep feeding me good info on ‘95ers going to the WIC and anybody who is employing ordnance in anger so they can get the recognition they deserve. That’s about it for this round. Keep the updates flowing... Check Six HARRUMPH! Don “BUDA” Kang -

Melissa S. Cunningham 9712 Hidden Valley Road Vienna, VA 22181 (703) 319-4048/DSN 223-9122 E-mail: Melissacunningham@pentagon.af.mil or

News from the Kun: I just received this picture from Steve LO who is currently working with the 8 CES Red Devils at Kunsan AB. The picture was taken off of the commander’s porch overlooking prime beachfront real estate in the Republic of Korea. Steve said that he’d seen a couple of Blair KAISER’s crazy photos in the last couple articles and couldn’t resist letting him know that these articles do not count as getting published for his master’s degree work. Although that may be true, Blair, you’re slacking; send more photos.

Fmcunningham@aol.com

Percent members: 61

I hope everyone had wonderful holidays. Looking back over this past year, I have found that I have a lot to be thankful for. Fred and I made it through the attack on the Pentagon, and a few weeks afterward I avoided

the Anthrax virus while working over at Capitol Hill. It just drives home how blessed we are to have our health and our safety. Good things have come with the bad. It has been wonderful watching our nation come together and even better to support the military. I’ve been amazed how many free cups of coffee I’ve gotten because the store’s manager wanted to show his appreciation for the troops. It’s been great having strangers come up to you and thank you for your service to the nation. And the nice targeted pay raise from Congress was icing on the cake. And yes, I digress, so here’s back to the news: I was able to get the full skinny on Kelly (GARGAC) Aldrich’s wedding. After graduation, Kelly was stationed at Edwards AFB working in the B-2 program office for the first year and the F-22 program for the remaining three years. As luck would have it, her future husband, Joe Aldrich (VMI ‘93), just happened to be in her Newcomer’s Briefing. Two years later, they were married on 13 Jun 98 in Toledo, OH. They have recently moved to Kirtland AFB where Kelly is working with the Airborne Laser System

In the bottom row from left are Col Michael Gardiner, 8 SPTG/CC, ‘80; Col Burton Field, 8 FW/CC, ‘79 (with horns); and Capt Kyle Brown, ’95. In the back row are Pat Obruba, ’96; Lt Col Kenny Weldon, ’85; Capt Andy

Bates, ’92; and Capt Steve Lo .96. Steve just got word that he will be headed to Colorado Springs after this Pat OBRUBA will be off to

rotation for his follow-on to Peterson AFB.

Aviano! I was also able to get a picture of Steve and his wife, Laurie, to

share with you guys!

Program Office. They are enjoying the civilization of Albuquerque and the New Mexican sunsets.

Steve and Laurie Lo

Kelly and Joe Aldrich Dave FERRIS, Gail Mader (BUTLER), and Kevin MCGOWAN were fortunate ‘96ers who were able to make it out to the wedding.

Other grads included MarkTAKAMIYA‘97, Alex ACKERMAN ‘98, and ErikEICHIN ‘98. After the wedding, Kelly and Joe rented a Toledo City bus for the entire it was a huge wedding). The wedding party (which included 24 folks party bus was an enormous hit and everyone had a wonderful time.

October brought the Air Force/Navy game to the East Coast. It was a great opportunity for a bunch of ‘96ers to get together and celebrate a victory over Navy (sort of like we do every year). We had a great tailgate before and after the game and had the opportunity to catch up with many classmates. Here are some updates: Serena MOSLEY-DAY is still plugging away at her law degree from the University of Maryland. She actually received her master’s degree there, then reported for a real AF job in Pennsylvania. A few months later, she was picked up to get her law degree so she is back in school. Despite the tragic loss of her husband, Deonte, last year, she has managed to stay strong. It was great to be around such an inspirational person. Jason ORTIZ was there with his wife, Laurie. We reminisced about his cadet car, the little Blue Box. Some of you might remember that fine automobile. Jason said that he sold the Blue Box to a lady with a young

teenager to continue the barrage of abuse that he made a tradition. He is

—

now in the North Bethesda area

working as the Chief of Medical Procure-

ment Operations at Ft. Detrick.

Tom and Jen (SPINDLE) CABALLERO made the journey down from Boston to enjoy the big game.

They are both busy working on their master’s degrees at night. Tom is working on an international relations/ affairs degree from Boston College, and Jen is working her way through an English degree at Harvard. Way to Go! Gwen RUTHERFORD (Deflippi) came with her husband, Burt, and daughter Sarah. I think this was her last major appearance before she gave birth to her second daughter, Margaret Patricia, in Nov! Gwen looks great and is enjoying her maternity leave through the holidays with her girls. Meg MARTIN made a special appearance. She is still flying C-17s at Charleston and having a great time. I haven’t gotten a recent update, but

Kelly, Dave Ferris, Gail Mader, (Butler), and Kevin McGowan. 124

I’m sure she is very busy due to national events. Other news: Bob and Melissa (Wainwright) BRYANT just had a second addition to their family. Rachel, who was also born in November. Melissa was busier than ever right up until Rachel’s birth, and I’d wager she’s even busier now. She began terminal leave in May. She spent two weeks with Maria VILLAPONDO and Colleen LEHNE-JOHNSON, came home for three days before heading out to Colorado to work the soccer sports

camp for 2.5 weeks. But that’s not all; then she went camping, made an appearance at her high school reunion, and then made the move to Seymour-Johnson to catch up with Bob. She said that it wasn’t until she moved in that she thought, “I’m really going to have a second child.” Five weeks later, Rachel arrived. Best Wishes to the Bryants! In closing, I know that these are very significant times that we are living in. I am sure that some of you are deployed in support of Enduring Freedom/Noble Eagle or working crazy hours at home station to provide sup-

unable to attend due to her deployment schedule, but she was there in

spirit. Her father also was the minister for the ceremony. Unluckily, I lost money again in Vegas.. .one day I hope to win some money there!”

port making our nation proud. We’ll continue to keep you in our thoughts and prayers. Well, that’s all for now! Thanks again for all the Christmas newsletters! Keep the news and e-mails coming. Best Wishes in 2002! Harley Melvin E. Maxwell, Jr. PSC #80, Box 17707

‘97 USAFA swimming reunion at Shannon’s wedding: From left are

APO AP 96367-7707

Work: melvin.maxwell@kadena.af.mil Home : mel maxwell97@hotmail.com DSN: 315-632-9150 Commercial: 011-81-6117-32-9150 Percent members: 67

Claudine, Julie, Samantha, Shannon, Maiya, and Abby

Hope the year 2002 is treating everyone well. It’s been holding 60- and 70-hour work weeks for me and I nearly didn’t pass in a class update. It was by the grace of the Checkpoints staff that I was given an extension to get ya’ll some news. Undoubtedly, you all have been jobbing also because there were only a few folks out there that were able to free some time to drop me a line. Thankfully, Samantha WEEKS (GLINSKI) came through with a quarterly update to pass on some news. Here’s what

Samantha had:

“OK, so I haven’t written in a while...please forgive me my life has been a little hectic. I got married in June to Curtis Weeks who is a captain stationed at USAFA teaching freshman chemistry. We spent two weeks together and then went back to our long distance relationship. I guess —

every visit is like another honeymoon.

Dan SCHULTEIS e-mailed me in December and told me that he matched pediatrics at Wright-Patterson. It was his first choice and he can’t wait to start his residency. Derek SAWSER married Mary-Anne Landry on 15 Dec in Jamaica. Eric HASSINGER is getting married to Jennifer Barnes in April, and Brian LAIDLAW is marrying Samantha Albright in June. Congrats goes out to Maiya ANDERSON for her fabulous job in this year’s Ironman Triathlon in Hawaii. She finished third in the women’s military division. Early in the year she also competed in the Armed Forces

ECO Challenge in Alaska. It was a 150-mile long course that consisted of mountain biking, mountain climbing, rafting, and trekking. Her team finished 8 th and it took 3.5 days to complete. The mosquitoes were insane, but she hopes to compete in it again this year.

Pete HSIEH and

Kirsten Wohlend (LARSON) are teaching with Curtis at USAFA in the chem department. Joining them at USAFA in the next year will be Julie FREEDMAN and Rob PRYOR, both in the BS department. I wish I had a teacher

like either of them when I was in BS 310. I guess in the next issue, as long as stop- loss ends, most of us will be finished with our initial AF commitment. It will be interesting to see what the future holds for us.” Sean BRADLEY dropped me a line to tell me about his time in USMC where he is currently on “shore duty” guarding nukes in Silverdale, WA. He’s an infantryman by trade having done time on Okinawa and a float around South America. He definitely plans on doing at least two years past his initial commitment but is unsure after that. However, right now the USMC is the only organization that deals with weapons and gives him the opportunity to shoot at people so they may have him for 20 years.

Jim GOVEN dropped me an e-mail to let me know about the Air Force Link story that will likely have a positive recruiting effect. You’ve all probably been watching the reality based television series entitled “American

From left are Gil Acosta, Mitzi Braswell Shannon Hamerick (Goff), Samantha, Curtis, Shira Worley (Ravitz), Jay Worley (‘96), Stacy Kreuziger, and Alex Haddad (‘96).

“I returned from Saudi Arabia in December after a three-month deployLife changed quite a bit over there as

ment which began just prior to 9-11. soon as that

occurred; as I know it did at home. Deployments are always

Fighter Pilot” featuring Todd GIGGY and others as they made their way through F-15 training at Tyndall. It was originally supposed to start airing the first of eight one-hour episodes in February. Jason PUCKETT is also a small screen star, appearing for about one second in a Road Rules episode on MTV when they were in Ft Dix, NJ last fall. Back in October, Dana (TATE) and Jason REPAK dropped me an e-mail to let me know how things were going at Laughlin AFB. Jason is a T-37 instructor pilot and will be moving on to F-16s and after three years at the civil engineering squadron, Dana moved over toWing Protocol. Dana plans on separating in May. But the real news is that they gave birth to their daughter, Hensley Elaine Repak on Sept 3, 2001.

class reunions so that is where I will begin. “Marcus RANDALL [Scribe note: pronounced Maaaarcus like Lady Eloise from Boomerang] is doing well as an intel officer with RJ and is stationed at Tinker AFB. However, I think he is deployed more that he is actually in Oklahoma. Jeff COHEN is flying F-16s at Shaw AFB along with Johnny VARGAS (‘96). Their squadron had a fun run prior to leaving SWA...what a sight to see! Fighter pilots running in formation and even singing jodies! I ran in to JeffVanDUSEN a few days prior to heading back to the U.S. He is a pilot on AWACS and was

enjoying the break that SWA offered. He has been quite busy flying since 9-11. Andy JETT was also in the AOR flying C-130s; however, we never actually got to see one another. He is really enjoying being an aircraft commander and flying tactical missions. Jessica Russell (RENTON) got orders for an “indefinite” period of time as an intel officer working in the CAOC, but should be home in mid-January. Greg MUELLER replaced Jeff COHEN’s squadron in December. He is actually the first person that I’ve ever met that says he enjoys being stationed at Cannon. And finally, Randy NAYLOR was in theater for a month augmenting McConnell’s KC-135 squadron. He is currently stationed at Grand Forks. “Other news...Shannon GOFF got married in Vegas on Jan 5, 2002 to Jeremey Hamrick. It was a beautiful wedding at the Bellagio, and a great swimmer reunion. Abby WHITE, Maiya Kraus (ANDERSON), Claudine Ward (TJHIO), Julie FREEDMAN, Camie Stock (GAGE ‘98), Dave STOCK

(‘96), Alisya DAVIS (‘96) and myself all attended. Mitzi BRASWELL was

The Repaks Bo LUZEY hit me up with a quick paragraph from the ACC Regional

Supply Center in Langley, VA. Big news: Bo is officially off the market 10 Aug 02. No word on who the lady is... Last but not least, I need to tell you about Beverly and Ted JACOBSON. Beverly wrote last summer but I somehow misplaced the card. They now have a beautiful daughter, Charis Noelle, who was born Oct 18,2000. They had been at Mountain Home AFB, Idaho for three years where Ted did intel and are now at Wright-Patterson where he works with the National Air Intelligence Center.

Well, I’ve hit my limit. Until next time.. .Mel 125

working in the research labs on superconductors. Erich is employed in AFRL, working in the sensors directorate on next generation radar tech-

Karin and Andrew McWhorter and their dogs Aspen andZeus. I hope you are all doing well. Please continue to send the updates and

pictures and enjoy your summer. If your travels bring you to DavisMonthan, please look me up! Karin

nology using gallium nitride semiconductor modules. He’s also been studying at Wright State part-time toward a master’s degree in electrical engineering. Mary LONG wrote in with some info from Shiners across the world: Stef (previously NOCUM) and Matty WILLIAMS are going to be stationed at Shaw AFB in January (Matty’s flying F-16s... his latest n’ greatest call sign is Echo). Amanda (BLAIR) and Jon Powell (‘98) recently moved up to Alaska. Allyne CASTILLO recendy moved down to Tyndall AFB, FL to be an exec officer (she’s in comm). Allyne, STEF MYERS, and Mary LONG ran in the Marine Corps Marathon the last Sunday in October. Marie GUYNN is working the AWACS thing at Tinker AFB, OK. Lane Byrum (ok, he didn’t graduate w/us, but I figure once a Shiner always a Shiner) is a crew chief for F15Cs down at Eglin and is currently working an OTS package (STS). Stef MYERS is the go-to intel chick at Nellis AFB... if you participate in Red Flag, you will probably see her. Tim KLINE is happily and newly married at Shaw AFB, working his intel mojo there, prepping squadrons to go to SWA. Brett PARADIS is doing the Maintenance thing at Seymour Johnson. Jamie (JAQUEZ) and Tim CANDELARIA (married last year) are happily serving as missileers in Montana. Jaime

James W. Busch 220B Polaris St.

Sheppard AFB, TX76311 (940)851-7994 E-mail: jbusch99@msn.com Percent members: 65

wBm

(CIESIELSKI) and Mac MCGUIRE are liv-

ing the tough life in Hawaii...just moved there this month. Lexi SIMOLLARDES is still Intel for the CCT unit at Pope, still with Parks Hughes (‘96) who is currently at Kadena. Joe KRAMER, Cliff and Jenny REIMER, and Mary LONG are stationed at Langley... Joe’s the exec for the 1 Ops Group Commander, Cliff is working hard in CE, and Mary is the Intel Officer for the 71st Fighter Squadron(F-15Cs)... also, Mary and Mark SLETTON (’00) are getting married Memorial Day weekend 2002! —

Filling in for James and Travis, this is Valancy Bastian. Happy New Year! We’ve got all kinds of updates from our Shiners around the globe. Here goes nothing... Matt VAN HOOK is currently flying the KC-135 up in the frozen wastelands of Grand Forks AFB. Up there (the 100 or so days when they’re not deployed) with Matt flying the tanker are fellow ‘99ers Rob SLANGER (who has been flying in the war zone since mid-September and is still there as

of 17 Dec 01), Josh JENSEN, Luke BINDRIEFF and Dan HASLEY. Larry SULLIVAN is flying F-16s in Korea on a one-year remote, which he just left for. Matt BRANCATO (99) and his wife, Micaela (formerly Benson, Class of 2000), are both at Charleston AFB where Matt is flying the C-17. Ben JONSSON is also flying the C-17 down in Charleston. Ben ROBINS has now graduated from both the University of Nebraska with a master’s in history and finished UPT as well and is flying the C-21 out of Randolph AFB. Jeff MRAZIK is also flying C-21s out of Scott AFB, IL. Eric SWARTZWELDER is flying the C-5 up in Dover along with Craig LINDSTROM and Dave PETERS. Luke OSBORNE was married to Amanda Saunders (Class of 2000) at the end of August and they will both be stationed at FE Warren AFB where she’s flying Hueys. Luke will continue to do Civil Engineering. Matt Van Hook was in the wedding, along with Evan and Jess (Class of 2000) Jones who are in San Antonio while Evan is working on various medical degrees. Chris SAMPLE was Luke’s best man and is slaving away as a T-37 FAIP (fighter follow-on) at Laughlin AFB and will be crossing over to the T-6 Texan soon. Jeff MONTGOMERY is finishing up PIT and will return to Columbus AFB as a T-38 FAIP. Ty SMITH joined his wife, Liz (Class of ‘98), up in Minot AFB earlier this year where she flies B-52s and he is doing CE. Avi PERRAS is flying the C-141 out of McGuire AFB. Jim OLDEN is flying C21s out of Andrews AFB. Nate STACKHOUSE is an intel officer stationed in Iceland. Kevin WILEY is flying Hueys out of Malmstrom AFB. Matt saw Rich WAGGONER who is flying the RC-135 while he was over in Saudi Arabia for OSW, Sep-Nov of 2001. As for the ‘99 grads at Dyess AFB, we’ve got an update from Kat DEHNE: Lisa HELMBERGER and Katherine DEHNE have been successful in gaming the system to continue playing volleyball. They went to Hawaii for three weeks for AF Volleyball and helped the team beat Army, Navy and the Marines, bringing the Gold back to AF. Kendra JACKSON is working hard and had to be the flight chief for the Bio-Environmental Flight for months before the Major came to take over. She did an outstanding job well before her time. Theresa THOMPSON (formerly SEIGEL) got married to Class of 2000 Nathan Thompson (currently in UPT at ENJJPT) and is working the secret intel side of the house so who knows what really goes on over there....Renea HEIN joined us after working at the prep school and is the exec for LG. (She still kicks butt on the basketball court playing with the guys! And she is engaged!) Dyess’ lone male grad, Chris LANCE, is trying his hardest to leave that “great” place but has not yet been successful- He even volunteered to go to Korea! Erich KRING at Wright-Patterson AFB ran into Rob ROBINSON there a few weeks ago. Rob is flying C-21s now to South America and Iceland, and enjoying it quite a bit. Coleman COBB is also there at Wright-Pat,

Jonathan GRAHAM writes from Ft Rucker, AL that SUPT-H class 01-06 just got their drop...they had two ’99 guys: Jonathan GRAHAM is going to MH-53s, and Kendall WREY is going to UH-lNs at Minot. Some previous classes were also well represented by 1999, and here’s all the ones Jon can remember: Kacey COACHER got UH-lNs and is headed to Malmstrom. Lee BOEDEKER got HH-60s to Kadena; Thomas LESSNER got MH-53s. Wil SANCHEZ got UH-lNs to Minot. Ryan DAHLIN got UH-lNs to Vandenberg. Caleb NIMMO got UH-lNs to Vandenberg. Jason BARLOW got UH-lNs to Andrews. Joshua RANDALL, the lone USMC cross-commission from ’99, is cur-

rently in Okinawa on a seven-month deployment from Marine Corps Base Kaneohe Bay, Hawaii where he is permanently stationed as an artillery officer. He married Audrey Umphenour (Kansas State, winter ’01) last December. Since he hit the Fleet Marine Force (FMF, the operational Marine Corps) he’s been deployed 9 out of 17 months, which reminds us why more of us didn’t join the Marines. He saw Preston RUFE, who was in Hawaii TDY to Hickam for two months out of Alaska.

Sam CHANOSKI spent 10 months at Ft. Benning, broke his leg in Ranger school and got thrown out, PCSed to Ft. Hood and learned how to break stuff and kill people with Bradley Fighting Vehicles as a platoon leader. He is engaged to be married this coming spring and recently switched jobs to the support platoon leader. As I write this, Brandon BLY is flying B-ls at Dyess, and enjoying all the time at home with his family. He and his wife Cheryl (Freeman, formerly Class of ‘96), have a beautiful nine-month-old daughter, Felicitee Anne. Valancy (NIELSEN) BASTIAN is out of the AF and lives at Sheppard AFB with her husband Russell Bastian, who is soon to finish T-38s. They have a very smart six-month-old boy named Matthew Russell (okay, I’m biased, but I’m the one writing this). My old roommate from ’35, Kristi HANSON, is a T-37 FAIP down at Laughlin, as is her husband, fellow Shiner Matt WASZAK. They plan to have the big official wedding in April 2002 in San Antonio. We hope this finds all the rest of you doing well in your assignments and happy with life. Until next time.. .Gold Will Shine!

Jason “JW” Simmons

mms

110 Mara Court

Prattville, AL 36066 E-mail: Simmons@USAF.com Work: Jason.Simmons@Maxwell.af.mil Percent members: 60

yai p/7

—

Classmates, be sure to update your email addresses with me or through site, I got many returned emails when I sent out this last request

our web

for information. I read over the previous article as I sat down to write this one and realized just how cool you guys are. Some of you are doing things that sound interesting and fun. The entries I like most though are the ones that focus on non-duty related happenings. For instance, hearing about a group of you often found hanging out together or a spur of the moment drop in. I don’t think we realized while it was happening, but going through those years together has given us a common ground. 127

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