Checkpoints June 2002

CHECKPOINTS

THE

Upperclassmen take Doolies to Task

For

ON THE COVER:

RECOGNITION

CHECKPOINTS

contents

spring 2002

letters

from the past columns

graduate portrait

12

rig

BOARDROOM TALK

THE 9TH ANNUAL CHARACTER & LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM RECEIVES KUDOS

DOOLITTLE RAIDERS LIVE ON

DEAN’S UPDATE

LONG BLUE LINE MERCHANDISE

FYI (Services)

CHAPTER NEWS

MAKING A DIFFERENCE (Development)

WALDO

SPORTS

GONE BUT NOT FORGOTTEN CLASS NEWS

up front features

72 HOURS TIL RECOGNITION

Doolies earn acceptance into the cadet wing with one last grueling test ofstrength and character.

34 FOUNDERS’ DAY 2002

General (Ret.) Ronald R. Fogleman, ’63, and Mr. Harry J. Pearce, ’64, were presented the first Distinguished Graduate Awards in Academy history.

23 DOWN TO THE WIRE

Academy Admissions’ staff draws America’s top youth.

26 TWO GRADUATES RECEIVE SPECIAL RECOGNITION

Fred Gregory, ’64, named Associate Administrator for Space Flight; and Bill Coleman, ’71, named “2001 Entrepreneur of the Year.”

40 WORDS OF WISDOM

New Mexico Congresswoman Heather Wilson, ’82, speaks to cadets about her experience and the future.

84 THE DYNASTY CONTINUES

Air Force Boxers win fourth consecutive national title.

U.S. Air Force Academy

Association of Graduates

3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475

Receptionist (719) 472-0300 E-mail aog@aog-usafa.org

DSN 333-4513 Website http://www.aog-usafa.org

Fax (719) 333-4194

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

Offices

Development

Services

off the shelf

Executive Assistant: Pat Buland

Accountant: Joyce Love

Secretary: Leah Burrows

Receptionist: Michele Cowan

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

Administrative Assistant: Rita Baker

Director, Annual and Class Giving: Chery Flores

Corporate Giving: Gary Howe

Gift Processing: Sandra Luckhurst/Dawn Wallick

Major Giving: Gary Howe/Russ Laney, ’76

Matching Gifts: Sandra Luckhurst

Memorial/Endowment Funds: Chery Flores

Pavers: Chery Flores

Planned Giving: Gary Howe

Sabre Society: Becky Hureau, Kathy McCann

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

Computer Operations: Lt. Col. (Ret.) Jack Mueller, ’70

Information Systems: Lt. Col. (Ret.) Rich Trentman, ’81

Programmer/Analyst: Christy Peppers

Bio Updates: John Rice

Label/List Requests: Chuck Denham

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

Director of Marketing & Media: Bob McAllister

Media Designer: Sarah Wright

Multimedia Specialist: Ken Wright

Website: Ken Wright

Checkpoints Editor: Bob McAllister

Checkpoints Assistant Editor: Tom Kroboth

Advertising: Dick Rauschkolb/Bob McAllister

Chapter News: Marty Marcolongo, ’88

Class News: Tom Kroboth/Ken Wright

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

Associate Membership: Don McCarthy

Business Rescource Directory (SABRD): WayneTaylor

Cadet Membership: Don McCarthy

Chapters/Societies: Marty Marcolongo, ’88

Class Reunions: Lani Wing/Donna

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.

Dear Members,

WBy Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Mark Anderson, ’61

e celebrated Founders’ Day in early April (were now 48 years old!) and it was an extra special event this year. Why? A combination of factors to include: (1) adding the Jabara Award, which had previously been presented in the fall; (2) presenting the first Distinguished Graduate Awards; and (3) opening the Heritage Trail adjacent to Doolittle Hall. For the cadets, graduates and friends of the Academy who took part, it was a memorable three days. The heritage and traditions of the “Long Blue Line” are expanding, and I, for one, am delighted!

Graduation for the Class of 2002 is just around the corner. My congratulations to each and every graduate, and I hope you continue to “stay in touch” with classmates, friends, and the Academy through your AOG. With over 55 percent of the class on-board as lifetime members, you’re off to a good start.

June 27th is another big day—In-Processing for the Class of 2006. Once again, Doolittle Hall is the focal point for the incoming class, their families/friends, and the Academy/AOG staffs. All the necessary paperwork is completed, refreshments are served, and the new class members and families/friends say their farewells. Then, the new doolies step on the bus for the ride to the base of the ramp and BCT.

Did you note the picture on the cover of this issue? It highlights another significant event in the life of a cadet-Recognition. I’m sure everyone who has been through the activities leading up to Recognition, followed by receiving his/her Prop & Wings can relate to the cover and the article on page 12.

You will also see a new section in this issue entitled “Portrait of a Graduate,” which features graduates who have excelled in their field and who exemplify our core values of Integrity, Service and Excellence. See pages 26 and 27

I suspect many of you (like me) have been concerned about articles in the Colorado Springs Gazette and the Air Force Times regarding misconduct by cadets (and in one case, a staff member) over the past several months. The articles could lead one to ask, “What’s going on is the Academy losing its luster?” After having the opportunity to discuss the incidents with the Superintendent, Commandant and others on the Academy staff, and after listening to the Superintendent discuss this with our Board of Directors on 11 May, my conclusion is “Remain calm, things are under control.” Yes, the incidents are worrisome, but we’re only talking about a handful of individuals (less than 1 % of the Wing), while the other 99% are doing great. And don’t forget, the fact that strong action has been taken against the perpetrators means they are being held accountable. Wouldn’t it be gratifying if that were the case everywhere in this country? By the way, we are looking at how we can “get the word out” better to graduates and friends of the Academy regarding incidents and accompanying media coverage. Perhaps our web site-www.aog-usafa.org-is the answer. Stay tuned.

In closing, I want to once again give credit to Dick Rauschkolb, ’70 and his staff on the excellence of Checkpoints. I continue to receive kudos wherever I go on the quality of the magazine-the articles, the format, the artwork, the paper, even the ads! Well Done to all! Hope you have a great summer. S

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to the Editor

9th Annual National Character and Leadership Symposium

I am writing to express my thanks to you and the AOG for your enthusiastic support for the Center for Character Development. The 9th Annual Character and Leadership Symposium was a phenomenal success. The symposium sessions and speakers were absolutely of the highest level ofexcellence.

I am grateful for the opportunity which is provided for the cadets and I am grateful that the Academy has taken a leadership position in encouraging other institutions to follow.

Barry Kayne, D.D.S.

Very few experiences in today’s culture exceed expectations. The 9th Annual National Character and Leadership Symposium did just that. Observing all ofyou (cadets) in action provided what every speaker pointed to as the most effective teaching tool: a good example.

Harriet Freiberger

Last week I was invited to attend the 9th Annual Character and Leadership Symposium. Even though we have been stationed here for over 24 years and have been a part of some very special events, attending this Symposium will always be a highlight in my memory.

Not even a week went by and I was already incorporating a number of meaningful quotes and activities into my teaching in a number ofAcademy School District 20 schools.

It was not just an honor and privilege to hear so many people whose experiences both within and outside the military have made them inspirations for all, but mingling with all the student attendees made me know that were all going to be in good hands.

Sheri Klayton

CHECKPOINTS

You’ve done an outstanding job putting together the Winter 2002 Checkpoints! It’s well designed, informative, and very polished.

Previous issues of Checkpoints were “newsletter” quality. This is magazine quality-substance, color, glossy paper. The old Checkpoints had great information. The new Checkpoints has great information and greatly enhances the USALA’s image as a premier institution.

CliffChi, Class of1987

During a recent visit to my son, Maj. Alexander Gonzales, ’89, I was fortunate to come across a current copy of Checkpoints and I have to tell you that it’s a great magazine. I really enjoyed reading the article written by Col. James Moschgat, ’77, titled “A Janitor’s 10 Lessons in Leadership.” What an outstanding article! It pays tribute to a great American hero and his family and it serves as an eternal lesson on effective leadership principles.

I plan to take Checkpoints back with me to Homestead, PL., and pass it on to the Aerospace Science Instructor so that he can go over the article with the APJROTC Cadets.

Alexander Gonzales, MSgt., USAF (Ret.)

USAFA Traditional Karate Organization

On behalf of the USAFA Traditional Karate Organization (TKO), I would like to thank the AOG for the generous donation of $500. The club recognizes that entities such as the TKO may not exist if it wasn’t for organizations such as the AOG.

Mark A. Staal, Capt., USAF

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Dean’s Update

Brig. Gen. David A. Wagie, 72 Dean of the Faculty

m hat a year! After graduation 2001, with m wM Vice President Cheney giving a heartfelt-and well-receivedl-address to the cadet wing, we looked forward to another challenging and exciting academic year 2001-2002. We did not realize how challenging it would be! As we adjusted to the security ramifications of post-Sept 11 th with remote parking and entry control points in Fairchild Hall, we continued to face challenges from senior leadership turnover, manning shortages, curriculum changes, and construction. However, your Academy continues to garner national recognition for its academic programs, and the cadets continue to earn prestigious scholarships and academic awards. In addition, our research programs—involving numerous cadets—continue to grow and support AF and DoD Programs. Finally, our international programs are expanding to support that ever-increasing need for “global awareness” of our graduates.

Before I get into the details of these issues, let me thank you, the USAFA graduate community, and the AOG leadership, for your continued incredible support of the academic-related cadet programs. You boosted your contributions from $210,000 last year to over $255,000 (CY 2001), ensuring cadets receive the highest quality education possible. Your money supports Student Services, guest speakers, the Academy Assembly, the Military History Symposium, Summer Research, Cadet Education Special Projects, and several other areas. Your support remains generous and reliable, and has been a primary factor in keeping our educational programs among the finest in the country. I’m profoundly thankful for all you do to support the faculty and cadets.

As I complete my 4th year as Dean ofthe Faculty, I am continuously impressed and extremelygrateful

for the high level of enthusiasm, interest, and support you all give to the Academy, the faculty and the cadet programs. Thank you all!

Now, here is an update on a very busy year!

Senior leadership changes. We’ve had a busy year selecting new Permanent Professors to fill positions left by retiring incumbents. This year we’ve named Col. Rich Fullerton to head Economics and Geography; Col. Dave Gibson to head Computer Science; Col. Billy Walker as our first Permanent Professor of Physical Education (in the Athletic Dept.), Col. (select) Dana Born to run the Dept, of Behavioral Sciences and Leadership, and Col. (select) Jim Cook as the new Permanent Professor in Philosophy.

National Recognition. USAFA continues to accumulate national recognition for our academic programs. In a national survey of college students, USAFA was recognized as the #4 school for “Best Academic Experience Overall” in the Princeton Reviews “The Best 331 Colleges 2001,” an annual guide to the nation’s top colleges. Additionally, we were the 5 th toughest school to get into, behind such schools as Cooper Union (1), Harvard (2), Princeton (3), and Stanford (4). At almost the same time, we learned that our overall engineering program tied for 6th place in the U.S. News and World Report rankings for Best Undergraduate Engineering Programs (among non-PhD granting institutions). In the individual program rankings, the departments of Aeronautics and Astronautics together earned the #2 ranking nationwide! Finally, USAFA was named as one of 16 Leadership Institutions in the country by the Association ofAmerican Colleges and Universities. D>

2002

Scholarships. We also measure our suecessful faculty commitment and cadet achievement through the number of scholarships our cadets receive. The faculty’s role expands beyond classroom instruction in many areas, including mentoring our top cadets through the rigorous scholarship application processes. To date, more than 2000 graduates have been awarded the opportunity to complete an advanced academic degree as their first Air Force assignment. For the Class of 2001, a total of 66 graduates went off to graduate school (including medical school)— about 8% of the class.

Fd like to highlight some ofthe accomplishments of this outstanding class. One of our students, the Spring Cadet Wing Commander, won a Rhodes Scholarship, one ofonly 32 given out in the United States. He is the 32nd Rhodes recipient in USAFA history. Our Fall Wing Commander won a prestigious Truman Scholarship, providing him $30,000 for graduate study. He is the ninth USAFA recipient in the last eight years. In addition, the Academy was selected as a Truman Foundation Honor Institution, one of only four institutions awarded this recognition in 2001. We also can boast of a Fulbright Scholarship, the 71 st given to a USAFA cadet, which sent one of our grads to study language, literature and history in Romania.

Four Class of 2001 graduates went to study at the prestigious John F. Kennedy School of Government at Harvard University. Five grads were awarded Draper Fellowships to study at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Two other graduates were awarded Draper Fellowships to study at Rice University and the Johnson Space Center in Texas. We also saw our first ever Superintendent’s Rand PhD Scholarship, which will allow a graduate to study at the world’s leading policy analysis program for three years while earning a PhD.

In addition to 21 National Competitive Scholarships awarded, six cadets are attending the Air Force Institute of Technology degree programs at Wright-Patterson AFB, and 20 cadets will complete advanced degrees at civilian universi

ties under our own USAFA-sponsored Graduate School Program (GSP). Nineteen cadets are attending medical training: 17 to medical school, 1 to dental school, and 1 to nursing school. For the class of2002, the numbers appear to be just as promising!

Curriculum Changes. To address a number of emerging requirements-ensure Introductory Flying Training can be scheduled 1 st class year, encourage more science and engineering majors to meet AF shortages, balance loads between majors, etc.—the Superintendent directed an Academy-wide Tiger Team to review all mission element cadet activity and recommend improvements. After numerous studies and meetings, the faculty responded by making the most significant curriculum changes in many years. The revised core curriculum now consists of 16 courses from the Basic Sciences and Engineering Divisions, 14 courses from the Social Sciences and Humanities Divisions, and a 4 degree (1 semester hour) seminar course for a total of 89 semester hours. Requirements in the area of foreign language will vary from zero to four courses depending upon major, with those majoring in the social sciences or humanities areas typically taking the most foreign language. All disciplinary majors will require about the same number of semester hours—148—which includes 5 semester hours of PE and 6 semester hours ofAcademy Options. Academy Options may be used for flight training courses, airmanship upgrade courses, or any academic courses of the cadet’s choice.

Accreditation Update.

On top of achieving our 10-yr accreditation from the NCA (the maximum given) in 1999, we continue to see successes in visits to individual departments. Since my last article, our Management and Computer Science departments both had highly successful accreditations, receiving maximum ratings from their respective boards. Coming up: fall of 2002 will see all five of our engineering departments get their re-accreditation visits. t>

International Programs. Our International Programs office continues to forge ahead with new endeavors. This fall, we hope to add Canada and Japan to our list of countries where we send cadets to school. For USAFA’s Cadet Foreign Academy Exchange Visits Program, the Office of International Programs sent groups of 4 cadets and 1 escort officer to visit air force and defense academies in nine countries during Spring Break 2002. Our groups visited Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Germany, Egypt, the United Kingdom, Taiwan, and Ukraine. During International Week 2002, 15-19 April 02, contingents from Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Mexico, Germany, Japan, Egypt, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, Spain and Japan visited USAFA.

Research. We’ve experienced a tremendous growth in our Air Force-and Department of Defense-sponsored research programs as the word gets out to the Air Force that high-quality work can be done at USAFA for bargain-basement prices. External funding for research will hit $8M this year, a 60% increase in the past year. We continue to rely more heavily on fulltime research contractors in our AF Office of Scientific Research-funded Research Centers, the seventh of which, the Modeling and Simulation Research Center, stood up in March 2002. We have truly world-class research breakthroughs being made in computational fluid dynamics, lasers and optics, fuel cell chemistry, biomimetic sensing, small satellites, solid mechanics, aerodynamics and operations research. The number of outside researchers who seek to come to USAFA because it is a great place to do high quality research continues to grow as well. In 2002, we’ll host a growing number of foreign researchers, including a doubling of Germans coming (free to the USAF) under the Engineer and Scientist Exchange Program.

Construction. Phase III ofthe Fairchild Hall renovation is partially completed and occupied while the remainder of the project nears comple

tion. This $15 million project updates original mechanical, electrical and plumbing systems, adds fire sprinklers, and remodels faculty offices on the 6th floor. To date, the Departments of Management, Economics and Geography, Political Science, Behavioral Sciences and Leadership, Astronautical Engineering, Engineering Meehanics, and Civil and Environmental Engineering have moved into their newly renovated space. This fall, the Departments of Mathematics, English and Fine Arts, History and Computer Science will also move in. In the summer, we’ll modernize the Department of Electrical Engineering under a separate project. Two future phases of the Fairchild Hall renovation, totaling $33.5 million, are still scheduled.

Military Faculty Manning. Faculty

manning continues to be a challenge. Our authorized military and civilian positions are filled at 85% and 100% respectively, bringing our total faculty manning to 89%. Rated manning presents further difficulties. At present, the faculty is down from more than 80 pilots 5 years ago to 28 pilots this academic year, and we expect the numbers to continue to drop. On a more positive note, we’ve been having great success with our program to integrate civilian instructors (who comprise 25% of the faculty) into our academic programs.

Summary. This has been an eventful year for the Academy, faculty and cadets. While we have had many challenges—manning, security, construction, curriculum changes—we continue to be impressed with our product—the cadets and graduates and their achievements. Their energy, enthusiasm, talent, and dedication to our AF and country are truly remarkable. Our graduates continue to excel in their challenging academic programs, and we know you are all as pleased with their success as we are. O

HOURS TIL RECOGNITION

Story and Photos by Ken Wright, AOG

After nine months of conditioning their minds and bodies, the “doolies” of the Air Force Academy are finely tuned machines, itching for the opportunity to earn the respect ofthe upperclassmen. But opportunity is a fickle lady, she likes you to work hard for her-she likes to see you sweat.

On March 14, 2002, the Class of ’05 came face to face with opportunity and met her with cocky grins that reflected the naivete of fourthclassmen unaware of the challenge that awaited them. Soon they would face the wrath of 3000 screaming upperclassmen, drooling over the chance to make the doolies earn acceptance imo the Cadet Wing with one last grueling test of strength and character-Recognition. In the three days that followed, leaders stepped forward and followers fell in.

Most graduates, whether they are from the Class of ’02 or ’62, would probably agree that the Class of’05 had it a lot easier than they had it when they went through the “zoo.” And undoubtedly, the Class of ’05 will say the same about those who follow in their footsteps. But whatever arguments can be made for or against the view that things annually get “softer,” there is one thing they will agree upon—Recognition (or Hell Week as it was formerly known) was an experience they will remember as a rite of passage that tested their physical and emotional steel. It paved a path that led to greater confidence in themselves, their fellow cadets, and for some, even their God.

The bond between doolies can be seen in their eyes. As upperclassmen unleash a barrage of deafening commands that could wake the dead, messages are sent and received between the besieged fledglings—“You can do it. Don’t give up. Follow me.” This remarkable ability to non-verbally communicate with one another while under such intense pressure is more easily understood when one considers that for their first nine months at the Academy, one of the primary lessons hammered into their daily regimen oftraining and education is in the art offollowership. It is a time when doolies learn A§*1

TOP: At 0500 HRS, the doolies real ize it’s not just a bad dream.

MIDDLE: Cadets use pugil sticks to release a little stress during “Sweepstakes.”

BOTTOM LEFT: The orders keep coming and the abs keep burning.

BOTTOM RIGHT: A cadet is given “personal attention.”

TOP RIGHT: Pushing her muscles nearly to the point of failure, a cadet raises her rifle above her head over and over to satisfy the demands of her superiors.

LEFT MIDDLE: Cadets celebrate their arrival at Cathedral Rock.

RIGHT MIDDLE: Upperclassmen recognize the Class of ’05 in a ceremony held on the terrazzo.

LEFT BOTTOM: Gasping for air, doolies push themselves to the brink of exhaustion during the “Buddy Down’ exercise.

RIGHT BOTTOM: Cadets compete at the Wing Knowledge Bowl.

TOP: Doolies and upperclassmen make their way back to the terrazzo after the “Run to the Rock.”

BOTTOM: A cadet finally receives the coveted “Prop and Wings.”

to trust one another, as well as their superiors. This time-tested method of preparing cadets for leadership roles has been an early turning point in the career ofcountless cadets.

Blood pumping, nerves jumping, muscles aching, streams of sweat pouring from every tucked chin, the stench of200 perspiring armpits (many sans Right-Guard), and 100 stories that will last 100 years. All takes place simultaneously, at a pace that never seems to let up. It is only in a precious few hours ofsleep that a doolie has a moment of peace and an opportunity to prepare for the next barrage oforders.

During Recognition, as well as any given day at the Academy, opportunities to succeed and to fail exist at every corner. Such opportunities exist not just for doolies, but just as much for the upperclassmen who are charged with setting an example for their fledglings. There is no doubt that upperclassmen can be harsh overseers, but those who balance their rigorous demands with a genuine concern for their doolies’ well-being gain the undying respect and loyalty oftheir subordinates.

In the end, Recognition was a bonding experience for the class of ’05. They met the challenges laid before them and proved to the upperclassmen they were worthy ofadmittance into the Cadet Wing. What’s more, theyproved to themselve they are the best class that ever marched across the terrazzo.

When the coveted “Prop and Wings” are finally pinned upon the lapels of each fourth classman, one thing is clear. Amongst the virtual sea of gifted students from civilian universities, the men and women of the Air Force Academy stand out from their civilian counterparts and offer America not just scholars and world-class athletes, but leaders who passed through a gauntlet of physical and mental challenges that well prepared them to overcome the challenges our nation will face today-tomorrow-forever. RS

a child’s dream comes alive for a day

J By By Jennifer Brugman Academy Spirit

Ten-year-old Alex Annias ofFalcon, Colo., has always had an interest in aviation. He’s fostered his interests by spending his free time studying and memorizing the various types of aircraft flown both commercially and by the military. Thanks to a joint effort between the Academy’s “Cadet for a Day Program” and the Colorado Springs Make-A-Wish Foundation, Annias had the opportunity to get a firsthand view of the country’s finest producer of aviators—the Air Force Academy.

The 34th Operational Support Squadron and Cadet Squadron 35 sponsored Annias’ visit in Feb. He is the fourth child to participate in the program since its inception in spring oflast year. “The [Cadet for a Day] program has a huge impact on children,” said 2nd Lt. Cat Adams, 34th Operational Support Squadron executive officer and program sponsor. “Alex loves flying and is really excited by the opportunity to come to the Academy to see all the planes and fly in a Cessna. This program gives children the opportunity to forget about their illness and simply enjoy being a kid,” added Adams.

Annias has leukemia and has been undergoing chemotherapy for two years. His illness qualified him for participation in the program, which is geared toward children between the ages of twoand-a-half through 18 years of age.

The program works with the Make-a-Wish Foundation of Colorado Springs by granting physically challenged children throughout the United

-Photography by SSgt. Ben Bloker

ON TOP OF THE WORLD

The “Cadet for a Day Program” and the Colorado Springs Makea-Wish Foundation provide Alex Annias a liftime experience to get a firsthand view of the Air Force Academy.

States, that have an interest in aviation or the Air Force, with the opportunity to spend a day with cadets at the Academy. The program is modeled after the highly successful “Pilot for a Day” program in place at many other Air Force bases across the country and is funded through donations from the Cadet Wing. This year alone $3,500 has been raised in support of the Cadet for a Day program here.

During his visit Annias had the chance to receive a mission briefing at the 94th Flying Training Squadron and a tour of the airfield and watch the Academy’s Wings of Blue parachute team perform. A ride in an Academy Aero Club Cessna was also planned, however difficult winds prevented the ride.

“He is really a neat kid. I was so surprised by the fact that he knew so much about aircraft. As he and his family toured the Academy, he was calling out the names of the different aircraft on the Academy, I was amazed,” said Adams.

Annias also had the opportunity to march with cadets in the noon meal formation and dine with the Cadet Wing on the Mitchell Hall Staff Tower. A tour of the cadet chapel and the planetarium followed lunch. The day’s events were closed out with a pizza party and an

evening of bowling at the base bowling alley. Because a few events were cancelled due to inclement weather, the cadets of squadron 35 held a lunch at a local restaurant for Annias and his family.

“This visit was really special for not just Alex but for his whole family. Alex’s Mom home schools him, because of his lowered immunity, so he and family haven’t really had a chance to get out and about much. Their visit here was the first time they had really done anything in sometime, so I really think it was a special visit for them,” said Adams.

“I had a great time there,” Annias said. “To be honest I think it was a tie between the hanging harness jump I did with the cadets or all the planes I had a chance to see.”

The Make-A-Wish Foundation grants the wishes of children with life-threatening illnesses to enrich the human experience with hope, strength and joy. The Foundation considers the wish of any child with a lifethreatening illness, between the ages of two-and-a-half and 18 years of age, anywhere in the state of Colorado. Anyone, family, friends, teachers, or medical personnel can refer a child to Make-A-Wish. The Foundation works closely with the Academy to make visits a reality for any child desiring to spend a day here. IS

THE LONG

It seems like

every

day

somewhere in the world an Academy grad is recognized in the news for an outstanding achievment or for making our country better than it was just yesterday. Here are a few from the “Long Blue Line” who showed up on our radar screen this past quarter.

All In The Family

To be promoted “Below The Zone” would surely make any officer’s day. However, when the recent BTZ list was released by the Air Force, it’s safe to say that for Maj. Jay Stone, ’88, and his wife, Maj. Lynn Stone, the news made their year!

Lynn, who works as an Administrative specialist was promoted one year BTZ, and Jay, who serves in the Biomedical Science Corps (BSC), was promoted two years BTZ! Although it’s not known for certain, the husband and wife BTZ promotions may very well be an Air Force first.

Spector Receives Prestigious Award

J. Michael Spector, ’67, professor and chair of the instructional design, development and evaluation department in Syracuse University’s School of Education, was recently honored with the Seventh Annual Reviewer Award from Educational Technology Research and Development, the premier journal in his field.

Spector was also appointed to New York’s statewide advisory board for the federallyfunded “Preparing Tomorrow’s Teachers to Use Technology” program. Spector is the third Syracuse University School ofEducation faculty member this year appointed to a major New York state oversight/planning committee.

Spector is also a professor of information science at Norway’s University of Bergen.

From 1991 through 1997, he was the senior scientist for the Air Force Research Laboratory’s Instructional Systems Research Branch.

’72 Grad Named Top AF JAG

Maj. Gen. Thomas J. Fiscus, ’72, has been named the U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General. As the Air Forces senior uniformed attorney, he provides legal advice, opinions and assistance to the chiefofstaff, Air Staff, and Air Force commanders and agencies worldwide.

“It is my singular honor to serve as the Air Force Judge Advocate General during this time ofmonumental national challenges. I am extremelyproud ofthe men and women ofour Department who are fully engaged in the Air Force’s mission to provide America with global vigilance, strategic reach, and overwhelming air and space power,” said Fiscus.

Before becoming the judge advocate general for the Air Force, General Fiscus served as the deputy judge advocate general, Headquarters U.S. Air Force, Washington, DC for approximately two years.

Gen. [Ret.]

George Butler, ’61, Recognized by Heinz Family Foundation The Heinz Awards, created by Teresa Heinz, are a tribute to the life and legacy of U.S. Senator John Heinz. General Butler’s award was given for his “courage to re-write the

rules concerning the dangers ofnuclear arms proliferation and make the world a safer place.” This year’s recipients “demonstrate what can happen when people are generous with their talents and their time, their curiosity and their creativity. They define the essence of the American spirit and its inspiring belief in the power each of us possesses to improve the world around us.”

Lakenheath Engineer Best in AF

The Society ofAmerican Military Engineers has awarded Lt. Col. Thomas Quasney, ’79, the 2001 Newman Medal.

The award is presented annually to the Air Force civil engineer with the most outstanding contribution to military engineering through achievement in design, construction, administration, research or development.

1 1

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During fiscal 2001, Quasney managed 705 base facilities and 2,386 military family housing units, while supporting 15,000 people on 2,300 acres of land.

Quasney also acquired 144 new build-lease housing units, representing a $30.9 million Air Force investment and negotiated the largest U.K.-leased housing site renovation of 640 units at an estimated $60 million.

Quasney averaged a 95.6 percent occupancy rate for unaccompanied personnel housing and gave all airmen first class their own rooms.

For accompanied people, Quasney accelerated construction of a $7 million child development center that will be opening soon. The facility will accommodate 224 children, eliminating the U.S. Air Forces in Europe’s worst child-care deficit.

Quasney’s facility maintenance program

received the 48th Fighter Wing’s only ‘outstanding” rating during a surety inspection, which helped launch the wing to the highest possible rating.

Senate Confirms Harold Manson, ’76, as Assistant Secretary of Interior for Fish, Wildlife and Parks (AS-FWP)

Col. (ANG) Harold C. Manson, ’76, strolled through an easy Senate confirmation hearing, setting him up to oversee the nation’s parks and wildlife refuges.

As Assistant Secretary of Interior for Fish, Wildlife and Parks (AS-FWP) Manson will be responsible for oversight of the National Park Service and the Fish and Wildlife Service.

The AS-FWP is the lead federal official on endangered species protection, national park management, and wildlife conservation.

Kaminski ’64, Elected to RAND Board of Trustees

Col. (Ret.) Paul G. Kaminski, ’64, chairman and CEO of Technovation, Inc. has been elected to the RAND Corporation Board ofTrustees.

In addition to his public service in the Air Force and as Undersecretary of Defense for Acquisition and Technology, Kaminski has served as chairman of the Defense Science Board, a member of the Defense Policy Board and as a consultant and advisor to a wide variety of government agencies.

’80 Grads Pass Group Command

Col. Susan Desjardins, ’80, assumed command ofthe 60th Operations Group from Col. Janet Therianos, ’80, at Travis AFB, Calif, on April 18, 2002. It is thought to be the first time an Air Force group command has changed hands from one female USAFA graduate to another. Col. Therianos’ predecessor was Col. (BG Sel.) Paul Selva, also an ’80 graduate!

Crosby, ’86, Assumes Helm of New Portland Airport Security Dept. Mark Crosby, ’86, recently took the helm of the Port of Portland’s security and public safety department at Portland International Airport. The new department was created in response to the terrorist attacks ofSeptember 11, 2001.

Crosby is no stranger to airport concerns. He has headed the port’s security management team since shortly after the attacks. Previously, Crosby had served as senior manager of aviation properties at the Port of Portland and had held a similar job with the Sacramento Department ofAirports prior to that position. S

ike many other young Americans, C. Hoagland, Jr. opted to join the military when it became clear that his country was being threatened.

That was more than 60 years ago, but it says a lot about the 81-year-old retired Air Force lieutenant colonel who was cited with the U.S. Air Force Academy’s ‘2001 Additional Duty Academy Liaison Officer ofthe Nation Award’ for managing and supervising the hiring and training of 14 new ALOs which helped his unit exceed goals and rank nationwide in the top five in multiple categories.

Hoagland retired as a fighter pilot from the Air Force in 1962, then retired as a United Airlines Flight Operations Instructor in 1986.

Unlike many of today’s American youth that he helps to gain admittance to the Academy, the son of a small town Kentucky banker said he didn’t dream offlight as a teen.

“I enlisted in 1941 in the Army Air Corps at $21 per month. Prior to my enlistment, we were required to be registered with the draft board, and it appeared to many of us that war was imminent, so I opted to enlist rather than wait and be drafted.”

Hoagland found himself in the Air Corps’ first Officer Candidate School in Miami Beach, Fla.

Then came Aerial Observation School at Brooks Field, Texas, where he earned his wings as an aerial observer and an aerial gunner, followed by pilot training, where he also earned his pilot wings.

After flying single engine aircraft and P-51 fighters during World War II, the allure of the blue skies was stronger than Kentucky blue grass.

“I realized I loved the flying and other duties and decided the Air Force was the career for me,” Hoagland said.

In 1946, a relatively small number of Air Force regular commissions were made available to active-duty Reserve officers on a com22

Pilot Recruits Tomorrow's Leaders

By Butch Wehry, USAFA Admissions

petitive basis. Hoagland applied, completed all the requirements, and accepted a regular Air Force commission.

While stationed at Andrews AFB, he met and married the late Julia Kenney, daughter ofthe late Air Force Gen. George C. Kenney, who had served under Gen. Douglas MacArthur as Commanding General of the Allied Air Forces, Southwest Pacific in WWII.

Hoagland was assigned to Clark AB in the Philippines as a squadron operations officer. “As a captain and operations officer, here comes this impressive second lieutenant named James R. Allen, and I recall saying to myself, this lieutenant is going to go places.”

Allen was assigned duties as Hoagland’s assistant operations officer and later became the U.S. Air Force Academy’s seventh superintendent.

This year’s Additional Duty ALO of the Nation award winner said he couldn’t resist coming back to the Air Force when he turned 66 in 1986.

“The Air Force was always good to me, even with the war. I relished everything I did, and have always been proud of the Academy, the values it represents, and the completed product, the Air Force officers. I thought I’d like to be associated with this so I volunteered to become an Admissions Liaison Officer and was accepted. It is a duty I have thoroughly enjoyed.”

Hoagland said he has averaged at least one cadet accepted to USAFA each year.

“My schools were mainly in the small little ranching communities of Northeast Colorado where 35 young people was a big class,” Hoagland said. “I remember around 1992, five kids from a school in Akrin were selected to go to the Academy’s Summer Scientific Seminar, which only accepted 500 or 600 young people nationwide. At the time, they thought that ratio set a record.

“Two of those young people were girls, and one went on to earn an astronautical engineering degree and graduated with honors. She is flying airplanes today.”

Besides being closely associated with Northern Colorado ALO’s, Hoagland also finds himself in demand as a speaker. He recendy was invited to speak to the Antique Airplane Association of Colorado and the Academy’s Heritage Forum in April. Hoagland has also been invited to address a few ALO training sessions on the East Coast this spring.

“The most important things I stress to both ALOs and young people are honor, ethics, integrity, accountability, responsibility, and service before self. It is always a pleasure for me to speak with people about the Air Force and the Academy. I have always been proud to have been, and to be, a part of it,” he said. S

The Academy:;::;::;,:

applications this year, an increase of 6,000 above recent years. The large number has Academy admissions people wondering what drove this year’s sharp hike in young people trying to come here. Was it from increased efforts from the near 2,000 Academy admissions liaison officers nation-wide and overseas, reaction to the September 11 tragedy, or renewed efforts by the Academy Admissions’ staff to draw America’s top youth to this cradle of the future Air Force leadership?

Probably all of the above, along with a joint Reserve Officer Training Corps scholarship program application effort, said Col. William “Trapper” Carpenter, ’73, a long-time F-15 fighter pilot who is director of admissions.

“The Academy is one of the most selective colleges in America,” Carpenter said, as the last of 1,520 offers were being mailed out in late March.

“The Academy anticipates that 1,200 young people will actually accept the offers and become the class of2006,” said Rollie Stoneman, director ofselections.

“We made significantly fewer offers compared to last year, making 2006 a much smaller class,” Stoneman said, adding that an even higher caliber of candidate was selected for this incoming class.

Each potential candidate must be academically, physically and medically qualified and possess the character traits to enter the Academy. Each person must have an official nomination to be even eligible to compete for an appointment here. Nominations can be congressional, presidential, regular or reserve Air Force components, honor military schools, children of deceased, disabled or missing in action veterans, or be a child of a Medal of Honor recipient.

“The Admissions process focuses on the four major pillars of the Academy experience; academics, leadership, athletics and character,” said Stoneman. “We can easily assess a candidate’s potential for academic success by evaluating their high school transcripts and their ACT and SAT scores.” Stoneman stressed that leadership potential is measured by an applicant’s involvement in extracurricular activities. Even the variety and type of organizations an applicant participates in gets careful consideration. “It’s not just a matter ofbeing a member of 10 different clubs where there is minimal participation,” said the head of Selections. “We’d rather have someone who is involved in fewer clubs, but really contributes their time and effort to that organization.” t>

down to,the wire what it takes to be a cadet

Photography by SSgt. Ben Bloker

The Eagle and Fledglings statue stands tall and is a centerpiece on the Terrazzo. The inscription reads “Mans flight through life is sustained by the power of his knowledge.”

Physical fitness is measured by involvement in extracurricular sports and the results of a required Physical Aptitude Examination. “The Academy, and the Air Force, is physically demanding,” said Stoneman. “Cadets are involved in intramurals or intercollegiate athletics, and the military requires a certain level ofphysical fitness.”

Stoneman said his staff relies on Admissions Liaison Officer (ALO) interviews and an ALO’s follow-up written evaluation to get a sense of each possible candidate’s character and motivation.

Seven key areas are then evaluated, scored and funneled together as a systematic screening process for each applicant. First is an applicant’s prior academic record, where classroom

performance is measured based on both class rank, ifavailable, and an individual’s grade point average. Most candidates selected rank in the top 10 to 20 percent of their high school class. In fact, the average ofrecently entering classes is the top three percent. Stoneman clarified that adjustments are also made for students who attend unusually competitive high schools with rigorous college preparatory curriculums. Either the SAT or the ACT will do for consideration of overall college entrance test scores. “It doesn’t hurt to take both, several times ifpossible, because only the highest scores are taken into account,” said Stoneman.

Average SAT scores are in the mid 600s and ACTs in the 28-30 range for the Academy. Both the SAT and ACT scores ofstudents entering the Academy surpass that of the national SAT averages ofroughly 500, and the ACT national average of 21.

The prior academic record, SAT and ACT scores are added up and turned into an academic composite, the most heavily weighted part ofthe admissions process. The higher the score, the more likely the applicant will make the qualifyingguidelines.

Extracurricular participation counts in another vital area that scores both athletic and non-athletic activities in high school, community activities and work. Stoneman said that special consideration is also given to unusual accomplishments either in or out ofschool.

Academic and extracurricular composites are then merged, allowingAcademy Admissions officials to objectively measure just how well a potential candidate might do at the Academy, essentially measuring success potential.

Lastly, a selection composite, basically a whole person score, combines all admissions factors into an overall competitive standing made up of objective data and a subjective selection panel rating. The panel is made up of a cross section of senior staffpeople.

This selections panel looks through each qualified admissions file and determines, across all USAFA mission elements, a candidate’s motivation and potential for success, both during the four years at the Academy, as well as future performance during a career as an Air Force officer.

“This is where we take the ‘whole person’ concept into account,” Stoneman said. “We evaluate a candidate’s writing sample, physical aptitude test, and everything else in the admissions file. “The selection panel rating includes all the subjective components and intangibles that may be in a candidate’s record.” D>

Stoneman said that the Academy experience demands a student with a certain profile, who is well-rounded and destined to lead. “The selection process is very competitive, so the students that apply are generally very competitive themselves. Appointees are also self-confident, strong academically, student leaders in their schools and community, and active in sports.”

The Princeton Review named the Air Force Academy as number one for overall academic experience in 2001. The Academy also claimed national recognition as one of the best engineering schools in the country, the second best in the nation for astrophysics and aeronautics engineering, and ninth for mechanical engineering.

Each class of2006 member has personal reasons for seeking an Air Force future.

“My father went first, my uncle second, then my older sister,” said 2006 Class Appointee Juan Diego Ramirez of Colorado Springs “Now it’s my turn to go to the Air Force Academy. I am so proud to continue this honorable tradition and serve this great country.”

Both Stoneman and Carpenter tell high school students to begin charting a path to the Air Force Academy early.

“It’s never too early to begin preparing; junior high school is not too soon,” said Stoneman.

“Our standards in all areas continue to rise,” said Carpenter. “Our graduates, and the nation, have every reason to be tremendously proud of the wonderful young men and women that enter the Academy. “For those accepted, there are endless opportunities and challenges that await with an exciting future in the world’s premier aerospace force.” I

THE SABRE SOCIETY

The Sabre Society began in 1995 and was established to recognize the most significant donors to the Annual Fund. Membership is open to any graduate, parent or friend of the Academy who is willing to make an annual unrestricted gift of at least $1,000 to the Annual Fund.

The Society has grown to more than 840 members—we added 205 members in 2001 alone and another 34 already this year. The Sabre Society has become the single most important source of unrestricted private funds for the Academy.

Many programs and activities that keep the Academy in the top tier of American institutions would not be possible without private support. During the 2000/2001 Academic Year, private donations to the AOG provided more than $800,000 to support numerous important activities, services and programs for today’s cadets. Sabre Society member donations are key to supporting the USAFA Gift Opportunities List which exceeds $2.8 million annually.

Upcoming Events

July 18-20, 2002

Sabre Society Recognition Weekend

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!

September 20-21, 2002

Regional Dinner in San Francisco Bay Area

Join us for a reception at the Woodfin Suite Hotel in Emeryville, CA (thanks to Sam, ’61 and Vivian Hardage). We’ve tentatively set up transportation to the Air Force/Cal-Berkeley football game and are working on a possible vineyard tour.

November 8, 2002

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.

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

Personal Best

Bill Coleman, ’71, has been named the 2001 “Entrepreneur of the Year”

1~\ "I A Systems, Inc. one of U L vil the world’s leading e-business infrastructure software companies, announced that Founder, Chairman and ChiefStrategy Officer Bill Coleman has been named the 2001 National Ernst & Young Technology/Communications Entrepreneur ofthe Year. He received his award at the 15th annual Ernst & Young Entrepreneur ofthe Year gala—the world’s largest gathering ofentrepreneurs—held Nov. 17 in Palm Springs, Calif. Coleman was also inducted into the Ernst & Young Entrepreneur Hall ofFame.

Bill Coleman graduated from the Air Force Academy in 1971. In the Air Force, Coleman applied his degree in computer science to developing software for satellites. He left the Air Force at age 30 after he realized that his future was in the computer industry.

“I’ve always been a person who believed in building a life so there’s something a little different and a little better to go to,’’said Coleman.

Ifyour end goal is to make a lot of money and retire so you can lie on the beach, you’ll have less to interest you when you wake up each day.”

Coleman’s skills in business strategy and operations, team building and process management have been key to his success. Since founding BEA in early 1995 with principals Ed Scott and Alfred Chuang, he has led the company to become the fastest software company to ever reach $ 1 billion in annual revenues. His leadership helped propel BEA to become one ofthe world’s leading application infrastructure software companies. “Bill has achieved remarkable entrepreneurial success in an incredibly volatile economy...,” said Gregory K. Ericksen, Global Director, Ernst &

Young Entrepreneur ofthe Year. Coleman believes strongly that a solid company can only be built on a customer-focused culture that empowers people and rewards success. He has more than 30 years ofhigh-technology experience, including various senior management positions at Sun Microsysterns; as founder, vice president, and general manager ofSun Professional Services; vice president of system software overseeing SunOS, Solaris and related products.

The Entrepreneur ofthe Year awards program was created and is produced by professional services firm Ernst & Young to honor outstanding entrepreneurs whose ingenuity and perseverance have ereated and sustained successful growing business ventures. It is sponsored nationally by USA Today, CNN, The Nasdaq Stock Market and the Kauffman Center for Entrepreneurial Leadership at the Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation.

Beyond his business success, Bill and his wife, Claudia, have opened a new chapter in their lives by helping disabled students. “Most people create foundations and put some money into it and then just wait for proposals to start being sent in,” said Coleman. “But we want to be physically involved with this. It’s something that excites us. And that’s what you have to do-find something that makes you want to go the extra mile.”

The Association of Graduates congratulates Bill Coleman for being selected the 2001 National Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year recepient. HU

Graduate Portrait

Frederick D. Gregory, ’64, named Associate Administrator for Space Flight

Associate Administrator, Frederick D. Gregory, an astronaut and the senior executive currently responsible for the safety and reliability ofall agency programs, has been named Associate Administrator for the Office of Space Flight. Gregory, 60, is Associate Administrator for the Office of Safety and Mission Assurance (OSMA) at NASA Headquarters in Washington, D. C. He will replace Joseph H. Rothenberg, who retires Dec. 15, 2001. “Safety permeates everything Fred does. He’s the right person for this job,” said Acting NASA Administrator Dr. Daniel R. Mulville. “His experience as an astronaut, pilot and manager offlight safety programs is essential during this period of transition for the Office of Space Flight.”

As a NASA astronaut, Gregory logged more than 455 hours in space during three Space Shuttle missions. In 1985, he served as pilot on board Challenger during STS-51B and was the mission commander for STS-33 in 1989 and STS-44 in 1991.

Gregory was selected as an astronaut in 1978, after a distinguished career with the U.S. Air Force. He logged nearly 7,000 hours in 50 types of aircraft, including 550 combat missions over Vietnam.

In his current position, Gregory is charged with overseeing all safety issues within NASA through the development, implementation and oversight of reliability, maintainability and quality assurance policies. “I deeply appreciate the confidence Dr. Mulville has shown in me throughout my NASA career,” said Gregory. “NASA has the safest and most reliable human space flight program in the world. I’m going to work to make sure we continue to safely explore and develop space for the benefit of everyone here on Earth.”

Gregory has been awarded the Defense Superior Service Medal, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, the Defense Meritorious Service Medal, the Meritorious Service Medal, 16 Air Medals, the Air Force Commendation Medal and three NASA Space Flight medals. His honors also include the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, the NASA Outstanding Feadership Award, the National Society of Black Engineers Distinguished National Scientist Award, the George Washington University Distinguished Alumni Award and an “Ira Eaker Fellow” by the Air Force Association.

The Association of Graduates congratulates Fred Gregory for his selection. H

Cadets^nd Civilian Strfclents Debate the US and the IB “Future ofEurope” ™

ontinuing a 44-year tradition of bringing together cadets and students from around the O^Kd States an^Canada to discuss a contemporary political issue^i^^if^Prce Academy and the Department of Political Science, with generous support from the Olmsted Foundation, the Olin Foundation, the Falcon Foundation and the Association of Graduates, recently hosted the Academy Assembly.

Convened annually since 1959, the United States Air Force Academy Assembly is the Academy’s oldest scholastic student conference. Sponsored jointly by the Air Force Academy and Columbia University’s American Assembly, the Academy Assembly remains unique by bringing together over 125 hand-picked cadets and students from over 90 universities across North America to serve as delegates to the conference. Over four days, the delegates work toward a final, consensus-based report. The Assembly’s final report is then sent to over 700 schools, libraries, institutions and government offices throughout the United States. The Assembly also attracts distinguished speakers and roundtable leaders who provide their expert perspectives. Keeping within the Assembly’s goal ofdiscussing an engaging and relevant issue, Assembly delegates discussed “The Future of Europe: Integration or Fragmentation?”

With advice and oversight from the Department of Political Science’s faculty, the cadet staffplans and executes the Assembly. This year’s cadet director, Cadet First Class Matthew Roberts, began working on the Assembly as a three-degree cadet, working his way up to this premier position. Cadet Roberts, Cadet

by C2C TimothyYoung, CS-29

Second Class Katie Veseth, the assistant cadet director, and the faculty adviser, Major Joseph Derdzinski, began planning for this year’s Assembly in April 2001. Over an eight-month period, Major Derdzinski and Cadets Roberts and Veseth oversaw the execution of 800 separate tasks and led the Assembly’s staff of 35 cadets. This staff increased during the Assembly’s execution to over 90 cadets, including cadet delegates, facilitators, drivers and escorts.

Besides providing a unique and rewarding leadership opportunity for all members of the cadet staff, the Assembly has four primary goals: to provide a forum for meaningful assessment of major international and national issues, including a consensusbuilding exercise; to produce an insightful, valuable final report for publication and dissemination to universities and government agencies across the United States; to enrich and educate all students who participate in the Assembly as delegates; and finally, to improve civil-military relations by promoting a positive image ofthe Air Force and the Academy to the delegates and distinguished senior participants.

The Assembly is a deliberate process formed to foster in-depth, thoughtful discussion and analysis. At the heart of the Assembly are the roundtables. The Assembly’s student delegates met in 10-member roundtables to discuss one of four of the Assembly’s main topics. During each of these sessions, delegates sought a consensus on the topic questions covering Europe’s foreign policy

and political, security and monetary integration. Each roundtable built on the previous one, tackling a different aspect of the central theme of US foreign policy toward a changing Europe. Major George Birsic,’86, an Olmsted Scholar, was this year’s report director. Major Birsic had the exceptionally difficult task of moderating the inputs from the disparate range of opinions, and then forming those inputs into a coherent draft that the entire delegation would later debate. This draft of their findings was then presented prior to the closing plenary session for all delegates’ approval.

A keynote address, panel discussion and banquet address provided delegates and senior participants the opportunity to learn from and interact with distinguished persons directly involved in our national policy-making process. As always, this year’s Assembly brought together a diverse group of scholars, senior government executives, theorists and practitioners. Ambassador Vygaudas Usackas of Lithuania gave our keynote address. Ambassador Usackas has served as Lithuania’s ambassador to the United States since March 2001. Lie also serves concurrently as the Ambassador for Special Missions at the Ministerial Advisory Group. During his tenure as deputy minister, the ambassador also served as chief negotiator for Lithuania’s accession to the European Union. The ambassador quickly set the Assembly’s tone through his thoughtful presentation of the benefits and detractions of a unified Europe, from the perspective of a future member of the European Union.

Dr. Simon Serfaty, former director of the Johns Elopkins Foreign Policy Institute in Washington, DC, the author of many books, and a guest lecturer in 40 different countries in Europe, gave the final banquet address. Dr. Serfaty’s insightful analysis of the future of US-European relations was an apt conclusion to a productive week.

Europe is continuing a process of dramatic change, centered on the European Union. At the beginning of this year, 12 national currencies vanished, replaced by a single currency, the euro. The EU is developing a Rapid Reaction Force, designed to enable it to conduct peacekeeping, crisis management, and humanitarian relief efforts on it own initiative. Later this year, a decision should be made on admission of up to 12 new candidates to the 15-member EU. All of these areas affect US policy and the role of the NATO alliance. Students from diverse backgrounds sought a consensus position which provided practical recommendations that could be implemented by US policymakers. All these aspects came together to make the Assembly a unique and intellectually stimulating experience. S8

PROSPFCTIVE CAPETS AND THFIR

FAMM !FS took part in the Academy’s annual Appointee Orientation Program during the first three week*; of April, The program gives future cadets a peek at what can possibly be the next four years oftheir life.

“The goal of the program is to familiarize the appointees with the opportunities the Academy offers, and to answer any questions they might have," said Col, “Trapper’’ Carpenter, Director ofAdmissions here.

Appointees get a quick rundown on Basic Cadet Training during orientation to minimi ze some ofthe intimidation and fear ofthe u nknown.

While here, appointees and their parents take part in tours of the grounds and facilities, receive briefings from staff, and hold informal talks with cadets, hoping to gain better insight to the Academy’s mission and operations. Most visiting appointees are high school seniors and a few have yet to accept their appointment to the Academy. The program can help to sway their decision to accept, believes Sue Purstell, Chief of Admissions Plans and Programs. “If the appointees have any questions or doubts about attending the Academy, the orientation provides answers and resolves any doubts about their opportunities and challenges as a cadet,’’ she said.

During the first day ofthe orientation program appointees and their parents are given informational and welcome briefings. The audience has the opportunity to hear from the senior staff and cadets in key leadership positions, including the Superintendent, Ft. Gen. John Dallager; the Commandant, Brig. Gen. Taco Gilhert; and folks from the Dean of Faculty.

PHOTOGRAPHY BY SSGT BEN BLOKER

By Lt. Col. Ed King, ’83, 557th FTS Director of Operations

et me take you on a short, but very familiar trip. It begins at the south gate and continues past the airfield and the Thunderbird overlook. Stop for a moment to watch fledgling pilots take wing for the first time in the Soar for All program, one of the Academy’s core aviation opportunities. Or witness the sense of elation in the elite Wings of Blue cadet who just nailed the target on her parachute landing-overcoming fear, building character, and meeting a standard of excellence as she pursues her dreams. Now drive up to Arnold Hall, named for a man whose vision, passion, and integrity helped establish the Air Force as a separate service. Walk through the corridors and read the biographies of graduates who made their dreams of becoming an astronaut a reality; or see those who garnered success as Air Force Chief

L“For once you have tasted flight, You will walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward; For there you have been, And there you long to return.”

of Staff; head outside now, through the honor court and learn of the proud history and the great traditions established by selfless airmen who gave their all; stroll down to the Terrazzo, taking a moment to stop and appreciate each of the planes that serve as daily reminders to cadets about the country they serve, who they are, and why they are here—finally, stop in front ofthe Eagle and Fledglings and read the inscription, “Man’s flight through life is sustained by the power of his knowledge.”

This is the Air Force Academy. On your journey you traversed territory as familiar to cadets as any campus is to its students. But these common, everyday sights mean something different to the cadet. To those of you who have been part of the Air Force team, you know the history— some of you have even made history. But to cadets these

things represent the best the Air Force has to offer. They represent the very essence ofwhy they chose to come to the United States Air Force Academy.

They represent a dream that they have now begun to fulfill. A unique thing we share with them, a tie that binds us together, is aviation—a passion for flying. Airmen, enlisted and officer alike, even those who work in other units throughout USAFA, share our sense of thrill and excitement about flying. Even cadets who didn’t come to USAFA just to fly are often extremely motivated by the concept of flight. At the airfield many cadets find their first chance to employ leadership principles learned “on the hill” and to take another step toward fulfilling their dreams. Dreams of flying, ofleading, of excelling at something they love.

If you’re like me, you often get wrapped up in the day-to-day details and forget to step back and take a look at what we, USAFA, are all about. We are about producing leaders, or as the vision statement so succinctly puts it, we are “The world’s premier developer of air and space officers... leaders with impeccable character and essential knowledge...preparedand motivated to lead our Air Force and nation.

Although this is easy to understand, it isn’t so easy to do. It takes a great deal of hard work, time, and dedication. While cadets can be prepared to lead the Air Force in many ways, most instructors and air officers commanding can attest that motivating cadets to lead is often quite challenging. This is where the Operations Group capitalizes on our distinct advantage...^ tie that binds.. .the cadets’ love of aviation. We draw cadets in by offering programs that are challenging, exciting, and rewarding. We make sure that we develop within our cadets fundamental aviation characteristics, such as skill, proficiency and discipline. And we do it all in a safety-conscious environment.

Some cadets will participate only in our core aviation programs such as AM-251, Soar for Ail, or AM-490, Basic Freefall Parachuting. Others will go on to more advanced courses, becoming instructors in their respective program, freely accepting the duties and responsibilities of leadership.

Still others move on to participate in our Capstone ofExcellence Programs like the Wings of Blue or the USAFA Flying Team. And finally, we introduce firsties and new lieutenants to their future. In our Introductory Flight Training program, we teach them how to fly a light aircraft. They receive approximately 50 hours in a Cessna 172 or equivalent aircraft and graduate with a Private Pilot’s License. During their training they gain a profound sense of inspiration at the beauty and simplicity of flight, tempered by a newfound appreciation for the complexity of flying in today’s increasingly busy airspace.

Making all this happen is our own challenge. We run the largest flying training program in the world. Our operation includes both the world’s biggest sailplane operation and the most extensive freefall program, both operating out of the busiest VFR airfield in the United States. We manage over 4600 square miles of airspace, six runways, and two Air Traffic Control towers controlling over 215,000 events per year. With the expansion of IFT, this may increase to over 350,000. We also provide support for flyovers during the noon meal formation, graduation, football games and parades. And we arrange flight demonstrations for Basic Cadet Training and Global Engagement. Last year alone, these flyovers supported 48 special events and featured 222 aircraft from seven major commands, two sister services, and even vintage and foreign aircraft.

Even so, we still claim the distinction of being the safest flying program in the Air Force. Our piece of the leadership development puzzle is to build a foundation of flying excellence—the essential knowledge they’ll need to lead the next generation of Air Force warriors. We go the extra mile in this effort by creating flying programs that are also extremely enjoyable, thus motivating the cadets toward an aviation career. We foster leadership development simply by giving cadets the opportunity to lead in a controlled environment. They run the programs. They succeed—or sometimes fail—as a result of their own decisions. More often than

not, though, cadet pride is revealed as an essential aspect of their true character. Take for example, the comment by 34 Training Wing Safety Officer, Lt. Col. Chris “Wolfman” Seaver, in a recent safety letter, “I’m thankful for cadets who take their flying and jumping responsibilities professionally. They know that what they do is serious business that requires devotion well beyond that required of an intercollegiate athlete or any club member. They are learning the meaning of risk management and how to apply it to their daily lives, both in the air and on the ground.”

But he’s not the only one to sing their praises. The Wings of Blue represent the Academy and the Air Force annually at the national parachuting championships and collegiate competitions. We have won the collegiate championship in 24 of the last 32 years, a simply phenomenal record. Our flying teams are no less prodigious in their success. On the soaring side, we have both a cross-country team that competes regionally and nationally, and a demonstration team that represents USAFA at football games and air shows. On the powered flight side we have the Flying Team, which has placed 1st in our region for the last sixteen years! None ofthis would really be worth the effort if it weren’t for the feedback we get from those who are at the center of our attention—cadets. Overall, cadets rate aviation programs as the Academy’s number one motivator, and as the programs that have best prepared them for active duty.

Anyone who has spent much time at USAFA and has seen the sights, anyone who has watched cadets and staff in action, senses that the atmosphere here is different from most universities. Here we grow leaders. Here, our core programs help mold cadet men and women into warrior scholars. Here, we offer Capstone of Excellence programs to highly motivated and capable cadets. Our Capstone programs offer individual enrichment opportunities that put the finishing touch to our core programs ofexcellence. Finally, here we have a tie that binds us together-aviation; a sense ofwonder and awe at the ability to “slip the surly bonds ofearth and dance the skies on laughter silvered wings. .”

Everything we do here at USAFA, everyone who serves, every program we have, is directed at our product—the warrior scholar, an airman who has the fundamental characteristics to lead America’s air and space force into the future. The Operations Group is focused squarely on ereating a path for the cadet to become an airman. Because, as Leonardo Da Vinci put it,

“For once yon have tastedflight, You will walk the earth with your eyes turned skyward; For thereyou have been, And thereyou long to return. B

The spires of the Cadet Chapel and the sight of cadets slipping “the surly bonds" will always remain a part of the Air Force Academy. But some things do change. Your Association of Graduates is trying harder than ever to provide more and improved services for you.

Our web site, http://www.aog-usafa.org, is just one of the improvements you might notice in the coming months. At your fingertips you will find useful tools and services such as:

4 Reduced Price Merchandise

4 News Updates

4 Reunion Registration

4 Photo Gallery

4 Graduate Job Programs

4 On-Line Payments

Whether you’ve visited our site regularly in the past, or never before, we hope you take time to see how we’re changing. If you like what you see, or even if you don’t, please let us know. Our goal is to provide you with the excellent and personal service you’ve come to expect from us over the years.

2001 GRADS

WIN FIRST PLACE AT AMERICAN INSTITUTE OF AERONAUTICS AND ASTRONAUTICS NATIONAL COMPETITION

■ wo

wo 2001 Academy grads from the Aeronautics

Department recently won first place in a national competition at the American Institute ofAeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA) Aerospace Sciences Conference held in Reno, NV. Second Lts. Cheryl Johnston, ’01 and Tracy Nettleblad, ’01 presented a technical paper on their X-38 research conducted while cadets, and competed against six other regional winners from throughout the country.

Johnston, formerly of CS-33, and Nettleblad, formerly of CS-07, won First Place for their work entitled “X-38 Rudder Study and Parafoil Cavity Investigation.” The award consisted of an AIAA medal and a $ 1000 check. As part of their research, they evaluated a new rudder design for the NASA X-38 Crew Return Vehicle, which will serve as a lifeboat for the International Space Station. In addition, they developed an optimized rudder configuration for the X-38 which is currently being considered by NASA engineers. Their research also included evaluation of a variety ofX-38 parafoil cavity shapes which led to a recommendation for an optimized shape to increase the stability of the vehicle. This shape has been incorporated into the current X-38 design. All of their work was conducted in the Aeronautics Laboratory’s Subsonic Wind Tunnel and Water Tunnel. Nettleblad and Johnston won the AIAA Region V Competition at Iowa State University April 2002 where they competed against 12 other universities. Other regional winners competing in the national competition included students from the Massachusetts Institute ofTechnology, the University of Maryland, Auburn University, the University of Illinois, the University of New Mexico, and the

by Dr. Thomas R. Yechout USAFA Aeronautics Department

California State Polytechnic University. Dr. Thomas Yechout of the Aeronautics Department was their Research Advisor. The work was also supported by Dr. Tom McLaughlin, Mr. Ken Ostasiewski, TSgt. Vito Logiudice, Mr. Tim Hayden, Mr. Jim Phelp, and Mr. Bob Hatfield of the Aeronautics Lab staff.

Nettleblad and Johnston are currently Undergraduate Flight Training students at Sheppard AFB. B

The X-38 prototype of the Crew Return Vehicle for the International Space Station is suspended under its giant 7,500-square-foot parafoil during its eighth free flight on Thursday, Dec. 13, 2001. A portion of the descent was flown by remote control by a NASA astronaut from a ground vehicle configured like the CRV's interior before the X-38 made an autonomous landing on Rogers Dry Lake.

^ /decade before President Dwight D. Eisenhower’s chrome-plated shovel dug into the arid Colorado soil, the first salvo was fired between the Army Air Force, politicians and educators over exactly why, when and where the academy of the military’s air arm should exist.

In 1944, West Point was prepared to produce both ground and air officers, however the Army Air Force, and later Air Force, felt there should be a separate air academy equal to West Point and Annapolis. Over the next ten years opinions on virtually every aspect of the proposed academy were debated, and at times the issue was tabled in order to deal with more pressing issues, such as the Korean War.

When the smoke cleared, Eisenhower put pen to paper on April 1, 1954 and formally established the U.S. Air Force Academy. From that day forward, the founders of the Academy set out to create an institution where outstanding young people, committed to a lifetime ofservice to the nation, would begin their journey. With almost thirty-five thousand Air Force Academy graduates now recorded in the history books, it’s safe to say their mission was accomplished.

General (Ret.) Ronald R. Fogleman, ’63, (left photo) and Mr. Harry J. Pearce, ’64, (right photo) took time to talk with cadets about personal and professional challenges they faced throughout their lives.

Several years ago, AOG Heritage and Traditions Committee chairman General (Ret.) Ron Yates, ’60, believed it was time to recognize those graduates who have set themselves apart by making extraordinarily significant contributions to our nation and/or their communities. General Yates’ vision became reality during this year’s Founders’ Day with the presentation of the Academy’s first Distinguished Graduate Awards.

} eneral (Ret.) Ronald R. Fogleman, ’63, and Mr. Harry J. Pearce, ’64, shared the prestigious honor of being named the first Distinguished Graduates in Academy history. After being presented with the awards, each graduate expressed gratitude toward their families for their support and sacrifices throughout their careers. During interviews, classes with cadets, and a press conference, both men also recognized the Academy for creating a foundation for their lives and careers.

Fogleman, a former Air Force ChiefofStaffand combat pilot, logged over 800 combat hours as an F-100 Forward Air Controller

Story and photos by Ken Wright, AOG

CELEBRATING 48 YEARS OF EXCELLENCE

and F-4E pilot during Viet Nam. The 34-year Air Force veteran was recognized for “providing the vision that shaped the Air Force ofthe 21st century, and leading the Air Force to new understandings ofaccountability, excellence, and the importance of integrity to the warrior ethos.”

Mr. Pearce’s career was markedly different from Gen. Fogleman’s, but no less exemplary and inspiring. During his Air Force career, Pearce served as a StaffJudge Advocate and was certified as a military judge. On his return to civilian life, he continued a distinguished career in law, eventually rising to be Vice Chairman of General Motors Corporation. His lifetime ofcommitment to causes far more important than the bottom line left a lasting legacy of service before self.

Pearce’s support for improving education, increasing minority opportunities, encouraging local economic development, and ending the trauma of life-threatening diseases has also earned him numerous national awards. In spirit, character, and accomplishment, Mr. Pearce’s career epitomized the values and ideals of the United States Air Force Academy. Both men and their remarkable achievements will serve as an inspiration to future generations of cadets.

Maj. Henry “HT” Thompson, '87, the 2002 Jabara Award recipient, and Mr. Harry J. Pearce, ’64, USAFA Distinguished Graduate, join Superintendent, Lt. Gen. John Dallager, in reviewing the Wing during a parade in celebration of Founders’ Day.

four-stars and two Chiefs of Staff. We have over 500 doctors, 720 Presidents and CEOs, 33 astronauts, world-class athletes and coaches, airline pilots, entrepreneurs, inventors, teachers, ministers, community leaders and parents. Graduates are making an impact throughout our society. Many are heroes—a Medal of Honor recipient, 16 Air Force Crosses, 266 Silver Stars, 3,679

/^fundamental purpose of the Academy is to produce career officers and leaders for the Air Force and our country. In his closing remarks at the 2002 Founders’ Day dinner, AOG President and CEO, Col. (Ret.) Jim Shaw, ’67, highlighted the accomplishments ofAcademy graduates, saying “Our 43 graduated classes have provided over 315 generals, including 18

Distinguished Flying Crosses, 36 prisoners of war, and 162 graduates have made the ultimate sacrifice-their names are engraved on the USAFA War Memorial. This is a great institution producing great leaders for our country.”

Shaw’s list of graduate accomplishments and sacrifices proves unequivocally the wisdom and foresight of those we celebrate each and every April 1st. S

Photo courtesy of USAFA Library. Special Collections Branch

By Ken Wright, AOG

As the colors of spring slowly spread across southern Colorado, a new feature has appeared on the Academy landscape. It is a reminder of the natural beauty that surrounds us, as well as a link to our past and our future. But this particular academy landmark was created by the hand of man, rather than that ofMother Nature.

Last year, as Gen. (Ret.) Ron Yates, ’60, considered the importance of the newly created USAFA Distinguished Graduate Award, he considered how the DG awards given by many universities are rather fleeting and lack a feeling of permanent recognition. “I thought we should create a heritage trail to serve as a place to remember our distinguished graduates who embody the ideals ofthe Academy,” said the AOG Heritage and Traditions committee chairman.

It wasn’t long before Yates’ vision was set into motion with the support of the AOG and the generous contributions ofthe classes of 1969 and 1973. Construction on the first phase ofthe three phase project at Doolittle Hall began in late 2001, and is expected to be completed before the end ofJune.

As visitors cross the threshold ofthe winding path, they are met by a granite pedestal that reminds them of the importance of recognizing America’s veterans. Etched into a bronze plaque atop the pedestal are the words of President George Washington; “The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war, no matter how justified, shall be directly proportional as to how they perceive the veterans ofearlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation.” The profoundness ofWashington’s words sets the tone as visitors make their way alongside the Ponderosa pines and come upon individual monuments to our distinguished graduates. Soon to be added is a cascading stream that will further enhance the naturally peaceful setting of the trail. “The walk is far more than a physical thing,” said Yates. “It is a path to our heritage.”

The AOG believes more people will eventually visit the trail than any other Academy monument because of the serene environment along the trail and because this particular monument recognizes men and women, and not inanimate objects, such as aircraft on pedestals.

The trail will not only also serve as inspiration for thousands ofvisitors, but also for cadets. “Our product here is leaders, and with this

trail we are focusing on the achievement ofinspiring people who have graduated from the Air Force Academy. As new cadets walk along the trail and read about the accomplishments of those who went before them, it will help them understand what heights they too can achieve,” said Yates.

Where does the path lead? Well, that’s the rest of Yates’ dream. He hopes that eventually the trail will lead to a heritage park that will pay tribute to wartime achievements of academy graduates, as well as serve as a place for friends and family to enjoy special events. After a walk along the Heritage Trail, it’s clear that General Yates is on the right path. S

unforgettable

Calling Lee Humiston just a collector ofVietnam-era prisoner of war memorabilia is a little like calling Eddie Rickenbacker just a fighter pilot. Humiston has collected thousands ofAir Force artifacts, including bracelets, patches, uniforms and unique items made by POWs.

In fact, the Academy’s enormous collection ofVietnam POW memorabilia was donated by Humiston, and is the largest known in existence. But now Humiston needs your help. He is trying to obtain patches relating to Air Training Command (ATC) from 1945-1995. Sought after patches represented the major command, wings, groups, squadrons, flights, operations/check sections, instructors, and most importantly, UPT/UNT/EWO class patches, authorized or unauthorized.

In addition to ATC memorabilia, Humiston is also seeking older Academy squadron and club patches. His collection currently includes 150 patches from the Academy alone, and over 800 POW/MIA bracelets. The patches and bracelets will later serve as a backdrop for the current display that includes nine life-size mannequins, each wearing a different POW uniform, a complete homecoming mannequin wearing authentic POW garb, right down to the underwear and socks. Incredibly, the collection even includes a brick from the Hanoi Hilton!

If you have an item you would like to donate, you can contact him at nampowfriend@netscape.net, or you can mail it to: 1 Jordanne Ct., Chico, CA 95928.

By Jennifer Brugman

Academy Ranked Second in the Nation

The Academy72"

and World Report rankings for top aeronautics and astronautics programs in the country.

“It comes as no surprise to us that U. S. News and World Report has recognized the outstanding program we have here,” said Col. Neal Barlow, Aeronautics department head. “We’ve known for decades that we have one of the finest undergraduate aerospace programs in the country. We hope that the rankings motivate some of America’s brightest students to want to come here to the Academy.”

He credits the outstanding nature of the program to cutting edge technology the cadets work with on a daily basis. Barlow also thinks that working with a mission in mind gives the aeronautics program a leg up against the competition.

The engineering program here was ranked sixth overall. “This recognition is really an indication ofthe great support the Air Force gives us to maintain our top-notch facilities, and especially a tribute to our talented and dedicated faculty, who work so closelywith our cadets to provide this world-renowned education,” said Brig. Gen. David A. Wagie, Academy Dean ofFaculty.

In mechanical engineering, the Academy was ranked ninth in the country and sixth in electrical, electronic and communications engineering.

“I think this is great! This makes the Academy look that much better,” said Maj. Chris Atteberry, executive officer to the Dean of Faculty. “It should make the whole country proud that a government-run institution places so well among a constellation ofprivately run colleges and universities.”

Embry-Riddle was the only institution to be ranked higher

Photography by SSgt. Ben Bloker

than the Academy in aeronautics and astronautics engineering. Atteberry believes Embry-Riddle was ranked higher because the school focuses almost exclusively on aviation while the Academy focuses on a much broader range of educational fields. Embry-Riddle was ranked 14th in the overall engineering category.

“The fact that we did so well in the engineering area is quite a kudo for us,” he said. “I think people take the rankings very seriously. We quote and brag on these sorts ofstatistics.”

The Academy was also ranked as one ofthe most difficult schools to get into, with a 14 percent acceptance rate. This makes the Academy the ninth most competitive school in the country in terms of admissions, making it harder to get into than the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the U.S. Naval Academy, the U.S. MilitaryAcademy, Yale, Brown, Georgetown, and Dartmouth.

“It’s extremely hard to get into this place,” Atteberry said. “There are an awful lot of people who want to come here.” The 1,271 candidates admitted to the Class of 2005 entered the Academy with an average high school grade point average of 3.85, SAT scores of 620 verbal and 650 in math, and ACT scores of 27 English and 28 math. SB

HONOR RECOGNITION CEREMONY

The Annual Honor Recognition Ceremony was held on April 19th in Arnold Hall. The 2001-2002 Wing Honor Chairman, C1C Theron Mink; DeputyWing Honor Chairman, C1C Jerome Wonnum; and Lt. Col. Susan Schweiss, Chiefofthe Honor Division, presided over the event which was attended by almost 200 cadets and members ofthe USAFA community. Contributions from the Association ofGraduates make this annual event possible.

The purpose of the ceremony is to recognize all 82 First Class cadets who have led the Cadet run honor system for the last year and to thank them for their work over the last two years as Honor Representatives. At the squadron level, the Squadron Honor Officers ensure the health and well being of the code. In recognition of their hard work, each of the Squadron Honor Officers were given a certificate, a letter of appreciation and a book entitled, “In Search of Ethics” by Dr. Len Marrella. Dr. Len Marrella is a 1957 West Point Graduate who went on to serve in the Army for 22 years, earning 2 Legion of Merit awards and the Bronze Star. After completing a distinguished Army Career, he went on to found the Center for Leadership and Ethics. Dr.

Dr. Len Marrella, author of the book, “In Search of Ethics,” speaks at the Annual Honor Recognition Ceremony about the importance cadets have in influencing the Air Force Academy and the Air Force.

Marrella spoke to all those present about the importance cadets have in influencing the Air Force Academy and the Air Force in a talk entitled, “Keepers of the Gate.”

Special recognition was given to the ten cadets who have led the Group and Wing Honor Staffs for the last year. Outstanding Squadron Professional Ethics Advisors (SPEAs) were selected from each group. These individuals were nominated by their squadron honor reps and selected by the Honor Executive Committee based on the strength of the nominations.

A cadre of USAFA graduates were recognized for their contributions above and beyond the call of duty for giving time to lead honor discussions with our intercollegiate teams. This group of graduates, some retired some still on active duty, have met with each of our intercollegiate teams and shared their stories and their experiences with honor and integrity.

The Outstanding Cadet Honor Officers from each group were recognized. Each ofthese cadets was selected from a pool of 18 squadron honor officers as the #1 squadron honor officer in the group. They were selected by the Cadet Honor Committee and have demonstrated excellence as a Squadron Honor Representative through honor education, probation counseling, and investigation of cases.

The final two awards were presented byJim Shaw, ’67, on behalf of the Association ofGraduates. These two awards are provided by Mr. and Mrs Lynd in memory oftheir son, Jerry C. Lynd, who was killed inaF-lllE accident while stationed at RAF Upper Heyford in England. Each year these awards are presented to the wing honor chairman and deputy wing honor chairman.

Special guests at the ceremony included: Colonel (Retired) Jim Shaw, President of the Association of Graduates and Brigadier General Taco Gilbert III, Commandant of Cadets.

UNew Mexico

Congresswoman Heather Wilson, '82,

speaks

to cadets about her experience and the future.

By Supunnee Ulibarri Academy Spirit

repare to besurprised was advice given to cadets by New Mexico Congresswoman Heather Wilson to cadets during her recent visit Monday to the Academy.

Wilson visited with cadets and cadre as a guest speaker for the Academy’s annual Truman Distinguished Lecture Series. Her visit was somewhat of a homecoming-Wilson is a 1982 distinguished graduate ofthe Academy and a Rhodes Scholar. “It’s a real honor to be here, to come back to the place that helped shape the woman I have become and share with cadets some ofthe things I have learned along the way,” she said.

Wilson was asked last August to come to the Academy. She said that her focus then had been to address cadets on the challenges of being an officer in a time of peace and prosperity. “But the world has changed since August—America has changed. We’ve been brought together by acts of unthinkable evil, inspired by heroes, and moved to act not only to destroy evil, but to do good in the face of evil. Millions of Americans have reassessed their priorities in life and reaffirmed the things that matter most-faith, family and freedom,” Wilson said during her speech to cadets.

Wilson believes the changes in our country and in the world create a future challenge for many cadets here as they prepare to start their careers. “Your lives will change. Your job will change. The technology you use to do you job will change, and the opportunities available will change too. You will be touched

by tragedy and by triumph. Doors will appear that you do not even know are there,” she said.

In addition to adaptability, Wilson also touched on two other topics. She encouraged cadets to take to heart and build on a strong foundation of values.

“There are things you learn here that have marked your life, as they marked me. There is a keel that will keep you upright no matter how wicked the storm. The honor code will shape the rest ofyour life,” she said.

The last word of advice Wilson left for cadets was to choose to be craftsmen at their work, “Be professional. Whatever it is that you do, design satellites or fly airplanes, or fix jet engines, do it well. Master it and constantly get better at it.”

After her lecture, Wilson met with several cadets for a one-on-one talk. She discussed various issues ranging from her experience as a former Air Force officer and an active member of the U.S. Congress. Wilson was first elected to serve New Mexico’s congressional district in 1998 and re-elected in 2000. Prior to that she served as the director for the European Defense Policy and Arms Control on the National Security Council Staff from 1989-1991. Wilson was an Air Force officer for seven years. She is the first female veteran to serve in Congress. S

By Cadet 1 st Class Luke Bell Cadet Squadron 30

adets on the FalconSAT-2 Small Satellite team here are preparing to build the actual flight model that is scheduled to be launched aboard NASA’s Space Shuttle STS-114 in January 2003. This comes after the FalconSAT-2 qualification model completed two weeks of testing at Kirtland Air Force Base in Albuquerque, NM. The mission ofthe FalconSAT-2 flight model on the shuttle will be to measure space plasma phenomena that are known to adversely affect space-based communication, such as the Global Positioning Satellite (GPS), and other civil and military communications.

Because of the testing the cadets conducted on the qualification model, only minor modifications must be made to the flight model design before launch. The cadets are now finalizing those modifications. The design and fabrication of the flight model is also under way. The cadets completed construction ofthe flight model this past semester for testing and delivery to NASA this summer.

The qualification model is nearly identical to the flight model in every respect, from the structural components to the electrical connections and wiring. The purpose of the qualification model was to validate the design by testing it to higher standards than what is required for the flight model. Testing on the qualification model is more rigorous and reduces risk by not damaging the flight model.

The testing conducted at Kirtland AFB included a vacuum bake-out, in which the satellite was placed in a heated chamber with the air evacuated to clean it. Then the satellite was put in a thermal vacuum chamber, which again evacuated the air, but allowed the temperature to increase or decrease to simulate a space orbit with the sun and eclipse. The test provided thermal information as to how well the spacecraft reacts to changing temperature. To find the center of gravity and moments of inertia, a mass properties test was done. This critical was to test correct deployment and attitude control of

by SSgt. Ben Bloker

satellite. That test was followed by a “shake” test in which a vibration table was configured and shook the satellite in all three axes, which simulates the vibration that the satellite will experience upon launch.

Finally, a test ofthe satellite deployment system, with help from personnel at NASA’s Goddard Space Flight Center, was conducted to see if the satellite would release properly.

Throughout the testing period, tests were also made on the software, to know ifthe satellite was functioningproperly, and solar lamp tests were conducted to ensure the solar panels worked correctly.

The FalconSAT program is managed by the Air Force Academy’s Small Satellite Research Center, under the direction of Lt. Col. Jerry Sellers and Dr. Ron Humble. Twenty-six cadets participate in the program, along with faculty and contractor support.

The FalconSAT program is made possible through generous support from the Air Force Office of Scientific Research, the Space & Missile Center Space Test Program and the Association ofGraduates. S

L to R, AOG Pres, and CEO, Jim Shaw, ’67, Col. (Ret.) Carol Holland, and Ms. Pat Buland

SPECIAL RECOGNITION

AOG Employee Earns Tallman Award

Ms. Pat Buland, the Executive Assistant for the AOG, was recently presented a Tallman pin in recognition ofher ten years ofsupporting the Liaison Officer Program. Col. (Ret.) Carol Holland made the presentation at the LO National Conference in January. The AOG congratulates Pat.

GOODTIMES GRADS SHARE COMMON PROFESSION

Recendy, three decades worth ofUSAFA grads, now USAF (Ret.) and working historians, gathered for dinner and conversation. R to L: Dik Daso, ’81, National Air and Space Museum, Joe Guilmartin, ’62, Ohio State University, and Phil Meilinger, ’70, SAIC, Washington, DC. As is tradition when historians gather, Joe is holding the head of an old, dead guy

According to Virgil “Fortune favors the bold.”As many of us know, it is true! Join us in a privileged lifestyle, using the Proven Formula for success, as we have.

- David (USAFA ’70) & Elaine DeWitt

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Plans All-Class Reunion in Fall

by Bob Mu Id row, ’67, Prep School Class of ’63 ■ Photos by Ken Wright, AOG

Hopefully most of you read the teaser in the last Checkpoints where we mentioned that we will be hosting the first All-Class Prep School Reunion this fall around the Thursday CSU-AFA football game on October 31st. By the time this article is published, most of you who are interested in attending this reunion will know all about the agenda being planned. But for the 10% who never get the word please refer to our website at www.usafagraduates.org.

With all the human interest stories that the AOG has started folding into our quarterly Checkpoints magazine, we felt it was time to provide a two part series dealing with your Prep School.

Although I was in the second class to graduate from the USAFA Prep School, I just learned this year that the Academy sent candidates to the USMA and USNA Preparatory Schools back in I960 and 1961. In fact Lance Sijan was a Bainbridge (Prep School) graduate. In 1961, the Advisory Committee to the Superintendent recommended that we should have our own preparatory school. General Strong, the Academy’s Commandant, asked Colonel Lee Black if he would stay on to command the soon-to-be-established USAFA Preparatory School. Unlike our sister academies’ prep schools, ours is situated on the Academy grounds about four miles south of the Cadet Area, just east of the Community Center. Driving by

jnts listen cent Math ;e.

BEHIND THE SCENES

it, as I have over the past 40 years, it looks deceptively unchanged— but looks can be deceiving. Both the facilities and the program have undergone numerous changes over the last four decades.

Back in 1961, four airmen dormitories were transformed into three dormitories and one academic/headquarters building. The Community Center gymnasium and some of its athletic fields became joint use facilities. Over the years, the dormitories have undergone several major internal modifications to include modifications to accommodate women in the late 1970s. Today about 18% of the incoming class is female. It is also interesting to note that in my class we had no minorities. Today about 49% of the classes are minorities.

The most visible physical change to the Prep School environment is General Robby Risner’s F-100 in front of the dorm. The gym has a first rate training facility. The parade ground, to the north ofthe Prep School, gets a lot more play than it did in the old days with parades, soccer, and other field events.

Just as the Academy began to recruit highly qualified civilian scholars in the 1990s for its faculty, the Prep School’s faculty changed its composition. In the early years, all of the academic instructors were officers. Later some highly qualified NCOs augmented the faculty. Today, a civilian presence is very evident—in fact, 16% of the faculty now have PhDs.

The Prep School, your Prep School, has been a fantastic opportunity for over 5,000 graduates over its forty-year existence. For many, the friendships formed at the Prep School were instrumental in getting them through that tough first year at the Academy. But the Prep School has had a much more enduring legacy. Over the years nine of our graduates have been selected as Wing Commander. Other graduates have achieved academic distinctions such as becoming Rhodes, Fulbright, and Guggenheim scholars. Still others have served as White House Fellows, Thunderbird pilots, and Space Shuttle astronauts. Among the rolls of Prep School graduates are individuals who have earned the nation’s second highest award for heroism, the Air Force Cross. Others have earned Silver Stars, Distinguished Flying Crosses, and the coveted Jabara Award. Among the ranks of Prep School graduates, one can find several general officers, including one former Commandant.

In summary, I think everyone who had the opportunity to attend the United States Air Force Academy’s Preparatory School would agree that it was a truly enriching and rewarding experience. We hope that all of you who took part in this program will take pride in the work you did and will accept our profound appreciation. H

Catholic Choirperforms in

By ClC Mark Cramer, CS-5

he Cadet Catholic Choir performed to standing-room-only audiences during a trip to California in March, hosted by the St. Maximilian Kolbe Catholic Church ofThousand Oaks, a suburb ofLos Angeles. Soon after the choir’s arrival to California they performed at the Ronald Reagan Presidential Library and Museum. The choir performed a short concert ofpopular and patriotic tunes to an enthusiastic audience of300, one of the larger audiences according to Lou Anne Missildine, the library director for education and public programs.

The cadets spent the weekend with sponsor families and saw a number of sights in the local area. While most cadets back at the Academy were going through one of the coldest weekends in Colorado, choir members could be found playing with a frisbee on the Santa Monica Beach.

However, the free day was a short one, as the cadets arrived at the host church at 3 p.m. for a two-hour rehearsal, followed by 5 p.m. mass. Later that evening the choir performed a two-hour concert for an 850-seat church, which literally had standing room only.

The reason for such a large turnout might have had something to do with the fact that two of their parishioners were performing. ClC Christian Paasch of CS-4 and C4C Adam Bushore, CS-2, both grew up in the parish and are members of the Catholic Cadet Choir. The 1,000 person audience was given a special treat halfway through the performance when the director, Charles Kurchinski, invited past choir members and grads to join the choir in singing the Air Force Hymn.

This was the fourth trip that the Catholic Choir has taken this year. Other notable trips were to St. Paul, Minn., and Buena Vista and Durango, Colo.

The choir’s mission remains to serve the local parish of the Cadet Chapel. The Catholic Choir holds practice for one hour every Wednesday at 5:30 p.m. and sings on Sundays at 10 a.m. and 5 p.m.

National Character and Leadership Symposium

Lt. Gen. Timothy Kinnan, ’70, US Military Representative to NATO, spoke to cadets about the importance of the choices they make for the future.

“If the USAF needs great engineers we could send them to MIT. The AF Academy exists because we need officers who are leaders of extraordinary moral character.” -col. Mark Hyatt, 74

The Academy’s Center for Character Development runs a variety of programs designed to inspire and guide the development of that extraordinary character. One such program is the National Character and Leadership Symposium (NCLS). The 9th annual NCLS met at the USAFA from 20-22 February of this year. The theme explored the concept of leadership strengthened by the core values using the

by Maj. Cheryl Soat, ’85

theme: Undaunted Leadership: Unassailable Integrity, Unceasing Service, and Uncompromising Excellence.

The symposium presents all cadets the opportunity to learn from experts, exemplars, and leadership practitioners from a broad range of fields in both small and large group settings. After a day and a half of formal speaker presentations, 50 cadets who are part of the USAFA delegation met for a student consortium with over 150 visiting university students from 45 universities. The consortium met for a full day of discussions and student paper presentations. Small discussion groups were facilitated by distinguished speakers, visiting faculty, and volunteers from the USAFA faculty and staff.

Keynote speakers for this year’s symposium included: Maj.Gen. Jerry Humble, Commanding General, Marine Corps Recruiting Command; Dr. Leo Mackay, Deputy Secretary for Veterans Affairs; David Gergen (Olin Lecture series) acclaimed author and political correspondent; Lt. Gen. Timothy Kinnan, US Military Representative to NATO (Commandants Leadership Series speaker); CMDR Scott Waddle, USN (Ret.); Mr. Dan Clark, international speaker and primary author, Chicken Soupfor the College Souk, Dr. Louis Pojman (McDermott lecture series), author and philosopher, United States MilitaryAcademy; and Brig.Gen. Mai Wakin, USAF (Ret.), Professor Emeritus, USAF Academy. Amongst over 34 other distinguished speakers were RADM Barry Black, Navy Chief ofChaplains, who discussed the importance of “servant leadership” in military service. Other speakers included Mr. Scott Sillers of the Wall Street Project, Dr. Thomas Connellan, Dr. Marvin Berkowitz, and distinguished members of the Navy SEALs, the Marine Corps Officer Candidate School, and the Air Force weapons school.

Participating students came from 45 universities across the US, the Royal MilitaryCollege ofCanada, and theJapanese Defense Force AcadSPRING 2002

emy. Visiting students gain substantial insight about USAFA by staying in the dorms with their cadet hosts and eating in the cadet dining hall. Also, participating for the first time this year were members ofthe Colorado Leadership Alliance (CLA). The CLA, developed by the El Pomar Foundation, is an alliance of Colorado University students focusing on the study ofleadership. A developing interaction with the CLA is exposing cadets to a broader array ofleadership styles.

Energetic speakers, inspirational music from the Air Force Band of the Rockies, thought provoking dialogue, and personal interaction are all essential elements of this event. More detailed information on this year’s symposium is available at www.usafa.af.mil/ncls.

The 10th annual National Character and Leadership Symposium will meet at USAFA from 26-28 Feb. 03. As we celebrate the 100th anniversary of powered flight we will explore the commitment to service of those who have shaped that journey of flight.

The National Character and Leadership Symposium is made possible due to funding from the Association of Graduates. Association of Graduates members are invited to participate in the symposium and can register on the website starting in November ofthis year. S

Wakin Award Winner

Dr. Martin C. Carlisle is a civilian professor in the Computer Science Department, and has received numerous awards for excellence in research, teaching, professionalism and volunteerism. In addition to being recognized as a USAFA Outstanding Instructor, Dr. Carlisle has received the Air Force Communication and Information Professional Award. Fie volunteers over 12 hours per week outside the classroom working with cadets on character building issues. FLis reputation for commitment to character and integrity are well known throughout the Academy, and he is frequently sought after for advice and counsel. Dr. Carlisle has served as a conduct and honor probation mentor for several cadets, and currently mentors 4 cadets. In addition, he was the first civilian BCT Associate AOC, and serves as an AOC for Academics. The examples could go on-and-on about Dr. Carlisle’s exceptional commitment to cadets and his willingness to go the extra mile in helping develop our next generation of military leaders.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Mike Francisco, ’67, Running for Congress

Col. (Ret.) Mike Francisco, ’67, is running for Congress in Florida’s 1st U.S. Congressional District. The decorated combat pilot’s first election will be the GOP primary in August 2002, followed by the general election in October 2002. Mike and his wife of 20 years, Patricia, live in the Fort Walton Beach area where Mike is very active in organizations, such as the Fort Walton Beach Chamber of Commerce, the Destin Chamber of Commerce, Rotary, the VFW, AMVETS, the American Legion, and the National Association ofUniformed Services.

Francisco’s plans as a Congressman include supporting a strong national defense, both overseas and at home, enabling our national intelligence to help our sheriffs and police stop terrorists in our land, and fighting for improved veterans’ and retiree benefits for those who serve.

Ifyou would like to learn more about Francisco and his campaign for Congress, visit his web site at

http://www.votefrancisco.com.

The Olmsted Foundation Accepts Gift From AOG

The Olmsted Foundation has been a generous contributor to the Air Force Academy, West Point and Annapolis and their graduates for many years by awarding Olmsted Scholarships and most recently by its grants for Cultural Immersion Programs. The Olmsted Foundation offices were decorated with paintings from each of the other academies but did not have a painting of the USAFA. This gift, given in appreciation for their long and faithful support, remedies that deficiency.

Olmsted Foundation members from L to R, Joseph McManus, Legal Counsel, Secretary and Treasurer; Leslie Gentry, Executive Assistant; Adm. (Ret.) Larry Marsh, President and Executive Director; Col. (Ret.) Bob Yablowski, Vice President.

Boxers battle for belts at

Jsy David Kellogg tic Media Relations

Ulysses Linares knew his 147-pound bout against Jacob Hostetler was going to be a war. Linares won by split decisions in his three previous bouts with Hostetler. As 6,100 spectators looked on in Clune Arena, Linares successfully defended his Wing Open title with yet another split decision. It was the closest contested bout on the 11-bout card.

“I knew it was going to be a tough bout just based on our three previous bouts,” Linares said. “I just had to give it my all in the final round and hope for the best.”

When asked how this year’s victory was different from his title from a year ago, Linares responded: “There were a lot more distractions this year. Everybody wants to talk to you and instead of going in the gym and wanting your name on the (champion) wall, you have your name on the wall. But this was a very satisfying win for me.”

Hostetler took the fight to Linares and won the first round.

But in the second and third round Linares was the more effective boxer as he landed more combinations.

The upset of the night came in the 156-pound division when senior Tommie Cisar won a unanimous 5-0 decision over defending champion Clell Knight. Cisar was a runner-up in the weight division last season.

“My plan going into the bout was to stay quick and to pace myself, because I knew that I wasn’t going to knock him out,” Cisar said. “I just kept it in the back of my head to stay quick and just worry about scoring.

“After the second round in the corner I knew it was a tough match and it might come down to the third round,” continued Cisar. “I am a senior and this might be the last fight in my life and I wanted to give it my all.”

Linares wasn’t the only Wing Open champ to successfully defend his title. Douglas Spear (112-pound) won his bout over Stan Hashimoto as did Joseph Harding (165-pound) and Dustin Brown (195-pounds).

Brown, a defending national champion, dominated sopho-

more Ethan Sabin. Sabin took a standing eight count in the first round, and another with 55 seconds left in the second round. Brown used strong combinations to have the referee step in and stop the bout with just 20 seconds left in the second round. His performance earned him the Outstanding Boxer Award of this year’s open.

FINAL WING OPEN RESULTS

112-lbs. C3C Douglas Spear, CS-32 dec. C4C Stan Hashimoto, CS-28

125-lbs. - C1C Eamon Murray, CS-34 dec. C3C Derrick Baker, CS-14

132-lbs. C3C Dathan Salgado, CS-14 dec. C3C John Durbin, CS-27

139-lbs. ClC Vaughn Brazil, CS-17 RSC-3rd round C2C Thomas Parker, CS-17

147-lbs. C2C Ulysses Linares, CS-1 dec. C2C Jacob Hostetler, CS-17

156-lbs. - ClC Tommie Cisar, CS-13 dec. C3C Clell Knight, CS-2

165-lbs. ClC Joseph Harding, CS-21 dec. C3C Leif Nordhagen, CS-17

175-lbs. ClC Rodney Ellison, Jr., CS 27 dec. C4C Matt Ross, CS-21

185-lbs. - ClC Mathew Cicero, CS-15 RSC-2nd round

C2C Christopher Hart CS-28

195-lbs. ClC Dustin Brown, CS-11 RSC-2nd round

C3C Ethan Sabin, CS-3

Heavyweight Justin Pendry, CS 11 RSC-2nd round

Brian Trumble, CS-9

RSC=Referee Stops Contest R

BEHIND THE SCENES

AOG supports the Wing Open

| many years, the Wing Open JL Vy JL Boxing Tournament has provided a venue for cadets to raise money benefiting a military family. The families of Cody Coleman, a spunky four year-old who has Down syndrome and was diagnosed with leukemia in October 2000, and Ashley Evans, a beautiful 13 year-old who suffers from Sickle Cell Anemia and was paralyzed due to a recent stroke, were selected as this year’s recipients. Cody’s father works at Air Force Space Command, Peterson AFB, and Ashley’s father, who serves in the Army, has been stationed in Korea for the past year.

The Association of Graduates has been pleased to support the cadets with this fundraising project by collecting and counting donations, sending receipts to donors and working directly with the families to disburse the gifts. The Wing Open Charity has profoundly impacted the Coleman and Evans families. They have expressed their gratitude to the cadets, the Academy and the AOG for the financial support they have received.

Character

By Dr. William H. Hendrix Coors Professor of Character Development

From its inception, the United States Air Force Academy has been dedicated to developing Air Force officers who not only are exceptional leaders but leaders of exceptionally high character. The Academy experience is firmly anchored in the concepts of the Honor Code, which sets the Academy apart from the typical undergraduate university experience. Furthermore, the Academy has created an environment dedicated to developing cadets’ character during their years at the Academy. Central to these efforts are the programs and training initiatives of the

Photo by Ken Wright, AOG

honestycompassion

Center for Character Development. Lt. General Brad Hosmer, ’59, who was the Academy’s Superintendent at that time, founded the Center for Character Development in 1993. The mission of the Center has been to foster the character development of USAFA cadets. The Center accomplishes this through a variety of activities, which include a wide variety of educational and training workshops, seminars, and symposium. This emphasis on character development has resulted in significant efforts and resources being dedicated toward this worthy goal. Therefore, it is reasonable for those looking at the Academy experience to ask the question, “How do you know if it works?” In the summer of 1998, Col. Mark Hyatt, ’74, Director for Center for Character Development, took a bold step not taken before. His goal was to do what many thought impossible; finding a way to measure changes in character development and if our cadets do, in fact, become individuals of higher character during their time at the Academy and after graduation. Since then the Center has been involved in developing a leading edge character development assessment system for measuring changes in character-related dimensions of our cadets and graduates. This character assessment system, building firmly on USAFA’s core values of “Integrity First, Service Before Self, and Excellence in Ail We Do,” involves a multi-method approach (three different types of instruments), which measures individuals’ values as well as behaviors. These instruments have been developed using 12 primary dimensions of character (integrity, honesty, loyalty, selflessness, compassion, competency, respectfulness, fairness, responsibility and self-discipline, decisiveness, spiritual appreciation, and cooperativeness). These dimensions have been consistently cited, in the character-related literature, as key components of moral excellence or character. In turn, these character-related dimensions serve to guide development and modification of our programs, as well as a basis for measuring our programs’ success. Results of this

research effort have been presented at national and international conferences during the developmental period to receive external evaluation of this project. This external review has been very rewarding with leaders in the field indicating that the Academy is on the leading edge in developing a process and method for assessing changes in character development.

...the Academy experience is related to higher character development scores from the time cadets enter the Academy until three years after graduation.

The big picture for our character assessment efforts involves measuring changes in character related dimensions from the time cadets arrive at the Academy and until six years after graduation. In addition, we hope to compare character-related changes for our cadets with comparison groups which include sister academies and civilian universities. This will obviously take time, and others partnering with us, but we are well on our way for assessing character related changes for our cadets and graduates.

Three instruments have been developed by the Center to assess changes in character. One of these is the Behavioral Desirability Scale (BDS), which consists of 65 items, which yield four factors related to character. These four factors measure the concepts of selflessness, integrity, competency, and spiritual appreciation (or appreciation of the diversity of individuals’ spiritual beliefs). Selflessness reflects the genuine concern about the welfare of others and willingness to sacrifice one’s personal interest for others and their organization. Integrity reflects the consistency with which a person adheres to a moral or ethical code or standard. A person who chooses to do the “right thing” when faced with alternate choices. Competency measures the extent an individual performs tasks assigned in a superior fashion and excels in all task assignments. The last concept, spiritual appreciation, may need more clarification than the other three factors. This concept does not require the development of a personal faith, nor does it require persons of faith to forfeit existing beliefs. After the terrorist attacks of 11 September, President Bush repeatedly called for Americans to respect those of all faiths and diverse cultural

backgrounds-we are all Americans. The measure of spiritual appreciation is consistent with what President Bush has been asking, that of respecting those with different backgrounds and beliefs. The spiritual appreciation measure attempts to do this by assessing the extent that individuals appreciate the diverse spiritual beliefs of others. We in the Air Force will have wide variety of individuals with which we work. Due to this work force diversity, there will be individuals who are likely to have different religious backgrounds and beliefs than ours. Many of us will also serve in other countries where the dominant religion is not Christianity. Therefore, respect for others’ beliefs is important to our effectiveness as a leader and is central to this factor.

The second instrument is the Character Assessment Rating Scale (CARS), which is made up of the 12 character dimensions listed earlier. A person rates themselves on the 12 character-related dimensions using this instrument and others, in turn, rate them in what is called a 360-degree design. That is, your superior rates you, and at least one peer and one subordinate rates you.

The third instrument is the Personal Admiration Inventory (PAI). This instrument involves a person rating (on a 10 point scale) 30 hypothetical individuals on how much they admire each of them. The Personal Admiration Inventory has only four characteristics for individuals to consider when making their ratings. Two are character related (integrity and selflessness) and two are not (intelligence and knowledge). Therefore, this instrument assesses the extent that two character-related characteristics are preferred compared to two non-character related characteristics.

We would like to share with you some of the results of our research and assessment, which includes measures on Fourth Classmen, First Classmen, and the Class of 1998 (three years after graduation). With approximately 2,900 individuals being surveyed, the results to date suggest that the Academy experience is related to higher character development scores from the time cadets enter the Academy until three years after graduation. There is a continual increase in the character assessment scales with the lowest scores being for Fourth Classmen followed by higher scores for First Classmen, and ending with the highest scores for graduates of the Class of 1998. In addition, cadets serving as Honor Representatives scored higher on the concepts of integrity and

selflessness than cadets in general. Furthermore, our cadets value integrity and selflessness higher than intelligence and knowledge. The data, therefore, suggest that the Academy experience results in increased character-related values and behaviors and that these values and behaviors can be reliably measured.

Where to we go from here? With a way of assessing characterrelated changes we can find areas where we are doing well in developing futures leaders of character and areas where we can improve. This promises to assist the Center for Character Development in providing even better character development programs that are not only relevant but result in fostering the character development process of our very special youth, our cadets.

Nevertheless, we have challenges ahead. One of these is to gain comparison groups as partners in the process. Desirable comparison organizations include sister academies and civilian universities. To date the Merchant Marine and Coast Guard Academies have expressed interest in partnering with us, as has Texas A&M University. We are in the process of communicating with other universities to gain additional partners in this assessment effort.

We are excited about the caliber of our cadets and our character development programs. As we obtain information from our character research and assessment efforts we will use this to further improve our developmental programs in our journey toward building future Air Force Officers who are leaders with impeccable character.

The Center for Character Development would like to thank all of those who participated in our assessment efforts. In particular, our thanks go out to our first group of graduates taking our surveys, the Class of 1998. Other USAFA graduates will be contacted in the future and asked to assist us by completing our instruments, either in paper form or our newly developed online system. We will appreciate your cooperation and look forward to providing you results as our assessment efforts progress. The Center for Character Development would like to thank the Association of Graduates for their support without which many of our character development programs could not be provided to our cadets. For more information on the Center for Character Development and our programs visit our website at: http://www.usafa.af.mil/wing/34cwc/. B

They came decorated

by Jennifer Brugman, Academy Spirit photos by John Van Winkle,

Fourthclass Cadets “Decorate” Firsties’Rooms.

“The first thing I saw when I got to my room was the nameplate of my fiance, Terry Welliver, next to mine on the door,” said Cadet 1st Class Beth Boyer, CS-24. “Then I walked in and his mess dress was on my bed, stuffed to look like a person. The head was a soccer ball (since we both play soccer). So, I thought, hmm, that was nice of them, this is cute, and they didn’t trash my room or anything. Then I opened my drawers and discovered that all of my clothes were gone and Terry’s clothes were in my drawers. I opened the closet and it was the same thing-my clothes were gone and replaced with Terry’s. I just laughed really hard.”

It was that time of year again-lOOth Night, with only 100 days until graduation, the fourthclass cadets ‘honor’ the firsties by ‘decorating’ their rooms while the firsties are out.

“It was a virtual forest with trees, dirt, pine needles everywhere, a campfire, tent and even a pond,” said Cadet 1st Class James Colraine, CS-29. “They pretty much destroyed my room. I was surprised and then [angry] because I realized that it was 2 a.m. I was half asleep and there was a huge tree on my bed, so I ended up cuddling up with a branch that night.”

In previous years, there have been naval themes, techno themes, outdoor themes, lots of water, tin foil and yarn. This year saw the outdoors and pink Saran Wrap.

Cadet 4th Class Gabriel Frusha, CS-29 remembered when firstie Cadet 1st Class Jeffrey Bodwell, CS- 29, hit himself in the face with an axe in the woods during the summer. “He now sports a rather large scar. So what we did was collect lots of tree branches and rocks to decorate his room.” Bodwell appreciated his room decoration. “[My reaction] was really happy and go-get’em-tiger, but with a sense of universal responsibility for mankind and the environment.”

Regardless, of whether or not everyone who participated in 100th night ended up with a greater sense of universal responsibility for mankind and the environment, everyone seemed to have a lot offun.

“The night was a great time because we decorated all the rooms, and were at rest,” Frusha said “We don’t usually get to walk and talk in the hallways, so it was quite a treat. The rooms took the cake though. Every squad had at least a few really good ideas.” Jj

Wins International Award: :

Be it space or the vast depths of the ocean, nothing proves too challenging for this satellite engineering instructor.

Goal setting is a passion for Maj. Timothy Lawrence, ’88, an instructor in the Academy’s Department of Astronautics.

Lawrence’s drive for his personal best has fulfilled not only his own goals, but also gained him international recognition among his peers here and throughout the world. His most recent accomplishment was the presentation of the “The Outstanding Young Persons Award of 2001” (TOYP), at both the national and international level. Lawrence won the award in the scientific and technological category.

The award is presented annually. Those who win at the national level go on to the international level. The award

F. Kennedy, Vice President Dick Cheney, General (Ret.) Chuck Yeager, Orson Wells, and Henry Kissinger.

The road that led to winning the prestigious TOYP award began here at the Academy, Lawrence said. The Waterloo, Iowa native is a 1988 graduate from the Academy; he admits he was swayed to the Academy based on its tough reputation. “I wanted to fly, of course,” said Lawrence. “But I also wanted to take on the challenges available here, not just the academics alone, but the physical and military demands as well,” he said.

recognizes 10 young people under 40 years of age who have accomplished and achieved progress in 10 categories ranging from academic leadership and accomplishment, government service, financial success, moral and environmental leadership, medical innovation, cultural achievement and humanitarian service to name a few. Lawrence was selected for the award out of more than 2000 applicants. Past winners have included former President John

Maj. Timothy Lawrence, assistant professor and system division chief in the Department of Astronautics, instructs cadets on a pulsed were recognized in the scientific and technology cal development category of the international competition.

When Lawrence lost his pilot qualification in his senior year, he had to go to a his medical review board and almost didn’t get a commission. Although Lawrence, a math major, wasn’t able to fly, he remained undaunted. “I went off to Edwards Air Force Base, Calif., which is part of the Air Force Research Lab—they basically research and build all of the rocket propulsion systems for the Air Force. I eventually went into advanced propulsion—mainly stuff in the future, like plasma thruster. His achievements nuclear, solar, and electric propulsion systems. It was a fascinating job,” he said. Lawrence remained at Edwards for three years prior to his acceptance into the Massachusetts Institute of Technology in Boston where he finished with a Masters in Nuclear Engineering. While there, he was able to work with the NASA technical committee on the Manned Mission to Mars initiative pushed by former President George Bush.

Lawrence returned to the Academy as an instructor. “A good friend ofmine said a teaching position was open in Astro. I spent two years here as junior faculty— taught the first year and became the research director the second year— then I got picked up for a doctorate in philosophy program in England,” Lawrence said. The University ofSurrey in Guild-

ford, England was his next assignment. The research he conducted at Surrey not only led to his doctoral in satellite engineering but also a nomination for theTOYP award at the United States level.

“Part ofthe work I did there was developing the first flight qualified water resistojet,” he said. “It’s like your toaster. What you do is take electrical energy and flow it across some kind ofmaterial that has resistance. All those electrons in there heat it up. That’s why you see the glow. So in a satellite you take the same concept, some kind of electrical energy-either in the form ofbatteries or solar photovoltaic—you basically heat the material, and then put water over it. The heated water changes to steam, then to gas. Solving the heat transfer to make this gas in the space environment was a tough problem. The gas is then used to move the satellite,” Lawrence explained.

Lawrence’s innovations were of great benefit to the scientific community because his satellite system utilizes a nontoxic component, compared to traditional chemical rockets that are fueled by hazardous chemicals such as ammonia-based hydrazine.

“I looked at other non-toxic systems, like nitrous oxide, or laughing gas,” he said. The nitrous oxide system was actually flown in space on the British 300 kg spacecraft called UoSAT-12 in April of 1999 and is currently still in space. “I was given the Thomas Hawksley Gold Medal, an actual solid gold medal, for my PhD work at Surrey from

the Institute ofMechanical Engineers” said Lawrence. His research topic was number one out of 310 from all around the world.

The year 2000 was a good year for him in London. His personal and professional achievements won his bosses’ vote for a nomination for the prestigious award. Lawrence also swam the English Channel that same summer prior to his nomination. “My boss in London nominated me for the award. “I think many factors played into why Dr. Joseph Janni thought I would be competitive for the award. I was in the Air Force, and my academic and athletic achievements were pretty good for that year as well,” Lawrence said.

Lawrence is sharing his past accomplishments at the Academy with his cadets and peers. “I feel I’ve brought all of that knowledge here. I’ve had eight European and American research colleagues come and brief my cadets. The cadets have benefited both culturally and in academic research aspects as well,” he said.

Lawrence has also ventured into new goals for 2002. “I’m also starting new research here too. We’ve already have produced a new pulsed plasma thruster, which goes on a satellite that we are building here under the LalconSAT program. It’s the size of the straw that you use to stir your coffee and requires only one to five watts of power and uses solid Teflon as fuel,” he said.

Admissions Conference

The annual Admissions Conference, 14-17 January, was a huge success this year. Because ofthe large number of new Liaison Officer Directors (LODs), the conference began with an LOD training day. The next two days were devoted to sessions and briefings with all the Academy mission elements represented including cadets. Col. Trapper Carpenter, Director ofAdmissions, and Lt. Col. Kirk Brown, Director of Enrollment Programs, were responsible for planning and supervising the conference.

The athletic luncheon on Wednesday followed the same format as preceding years with one coach seated at each table with the LODs, making an enjoyable social between the small groups. The conference highlight was the National Awards Banquet on Thursday evening. Col. Carol Holland, USAF Ret., presented 21 Tallman pins at the banquet. The Tall man awards program began in 1994 to honor those ALOs, DLODs, and LODs with 10, 20, 30, and 40 years ofservice. A few pins have been given to admissions personnel and others at the Academy who were dedicated to the program through their work. Sue Purstell, Director of Plans and Programs, received the 1,000th pin distributed since 1994 when Col. Holland presented her with a 10-year pin.

General Dallager presented national awards at the banquet to those in the ALO program judged the best among nominees from five regions. The following received awards for their performance

in 2001: (Pictured from left to right)

Lt. Col. E.C. Hoagland-Additional Duty ALO ofthe Nation

Maj. Kevin A. Cannon-Minority Admissions Counselor of the Nation

Lt. Col. Thomas E.Logan-DLOD of the Nation

Capt. Dawn R. Deshefy-Primary Duty ALO of the Nation

Lt. Col. RickyJ. Thompson-LOD of the Nation

Col. Authur B. Keller-Lifetime Achievement

Ccllec ei'av me £

What to do if they don't go to USAFA

By Eric Holt, Class of '91

aying for college is not something most grads had to worry about. While many would argue we paid “plenty,” unless they attended a normal college before USAFA, most never had to deal with the significant expenses ofhigher education. As more of our classes graduate, we have more and more grads shifting into that parent (and in some cases grandparent) role and our perspectives begin to change. For most parents, sending their kids to college is an abstract concept as they are now focused on taking them to soccer practice, attending their plays, and figuring how to be in three places at once. I’ve heard many clients tell me they were going to pay for college out of “operating funds”—in other words they were on the “pay as you go” plan and would finance college out of their current income. While this is possible, the costs of college education (both now and in the future) would require a very high level of current income to meet those demands. Consider the following from US News and World Report (costs include estimates for tuition, books, and room and board):

some different investment strategies Congress has provided us. The three I am going to discuss are the Uniform Gift to Minors Act/Uniform Transfer to Minor’s Act (UGMA/UTMA), the Education IRA, and the Section 529 Plan.

<HUGMA/UTMAs are just a type of custodial account you can set up for a minor; typically, this is a child or grandchild. The custodian (who should not be the parent for tax purposes) invests the assets primarily in stocks, bonds, life insurance, and CDs. In most states, minors do not have the capacity to enter into contracts (or brokerage agreements) until they reach the age of majority so UGMAs/UTMAs provide a mechanism for savings to begin at an early age. However, when the child reaches 18, the money is legally theirs and they can do as they wish with the proceeds. Note, however, there are no tax advantages for an UGMA/UTMA.

opefully, our kids will earn scholarships to help defray some of these costs and in some cases, financial aid may also help, but the fiscal burden on the parents and the child is going to be painful. “Pay as you go” may work for some people but a more realistic approach for the vast majority of us is starting to plan NOW for college and take advantage of

Education IRAs are another type of account with savings earmarked for education. Prior to 2002, the maximum contribution was $500 per child per year. Beginning in 2002, the contribution limit was raised to $2,000 per year and the account proceeds can be used for secondary or vocational education (which many feel is a valuable feature). Assets in Education IRAs can also be invested in stocks, bonds, and mutual funds and must be “used” by the time the account holder is 30 or the funds must be rolled over to another family member. However, just like other IRAs, there are income limits which affect participation. From a tax stand point, Education IRAs are treated just like Roth IRAs-contributions are not tax deductible but the earnings grow TAX-FREE. D>

^Section 529 Plans are tax-advantaged savings plans for college.

A 529 plan is an investment plan operated by a state. Funds are invested in the 529 plan (principally in mutual funds) and the account owner turns over the investment process to the company running the state’s plan (i.e. Vanguard or TIAA-CREF).

While the contribution is not federally tax-deductible, the earnings grow TAX-FREE. One of the many attractive aspects of the 529 Plans is you do NOT have to participate in your own state’s plan (however, some states, like Colorado, make contributions state-tax-deductible - but only ifyou invest in your home state’s plan). The primary caveat on the 529 Plan is the money FIAS to be used for college. There are no income limits for participation and the maximum contribution is as high as $250,000 for each account owner. Finally, the account owner retains control of the assets and can change the beneficiary of the money to another family member (including first cousins).

So, which one of these options is most appealing? While the ultimate answer depends on your individual preferences and circumstances, I think the 529 is a very attractive choice for the majority of families for the following reasons:

O More Financial Aid. Currently, the assets in the 529 do not count as the child’s asset. While I’ll spare you the gory details of financial aid formulas, the parents’ and the child’s assets are both factored in but the parent’s assets are weighted less heavily than the child’s. From a financial aid standpoint, Education IRAs and UGMA/UTMAs do count as the child’s asset, while 529 assets do not; which would result in more financial aid for the beneficiary with a 529 Plan (all else being equal).

0 More Control. The 529 Plan has an account owner and a beneficiary. Ifthe beneficiary decides not to go to college or falls in disfavor with the account owner, the beneficiary can be changed without anypenalty or tax consequences to the owner. The UGMA/UTMA assets are the “child’s” at the age of majority (typically 18 or 21) to spend as TFFEY see fit. In that case, they may “see fit” to take a vacation or buy a Ffarley—both attractive options for the 18 year-old but not necessarily for the parent.

0 Greater Participation. There are no income limits for participation and the state-imposed contribution limits should be more than enough to finance attendance in that state. Limits range from $100,000 to $250,000 depending on the state and are a function of expected costs of attendance for that state. If

you’re planning on sending your kids to a private university, you may want to avoid the states with lower 529 contribution limits. Ifyou invested $2,000 a year in an Education IRA and that amount grew by $10% per year, you’d have saved over $91,000 of tax-free dollars-while a significant amount, that would almost pay for one year at Princeton.

Estate Planning. This is a tremendous advantage ofthe 529 Plan. Gifts of over $10,000 from an individual in a single year are taxed to the GIFTER at their tax rate (which is probably pretty high is you’re giving $10,000 away). The 529 Plan allows a fiveyear “front-loading” ofthe contribution; so, a couple could “gift” $100,000 into a Section 529 Plan without ANY gift tax consequences. Furthermore, the gift is out of the estate and will not be subject to estate taxes should the person pass away (consult your tax attorney on this one as it can get really complicated). While the same objectives could be achieved through the use of a trust, a 529 account is much easier/cheaper to set-up.

There is only one primary situation where I would not recommend the use of a 529 Plan-a small family. Remember, the assets in the 529 Plan have to be used for college; if the beneficiary doesn’t go to school, the account beneficiary can be changed to another family member (which could be the parent, siblings, their children, grandparent, or first cousin) but the money still has to be used for college. If the money is not used for higher education (which includes Masters and Doctoral work), the account owner will pay taxes on any gains AND a 10% penalty on those gains. Obviously, this is a situation you want to avoid so I do urge you to exercise caution ifyou’re from a small family and thereby limited in the number ofpotential beneficiaries.

The 529 Plan is a fantastic college savings and estate-planning tool. The best information I’ve seen on this subject is at www.savingforcollege.com where they breakdown the things to consider in choosing a 529 Plan as well as details on each state’s plan (including their assessment of each plan).

The time to start is now—unless you will be able to afford the “pay as you go” option.

COMING NEXT ISSUE: Should I be 100% invested in the stock market?

For more information, please contact eric@ivealthadvisory.com, yourfinancial advisor, oryour attorney. The illustrations above are not a guarantee and readers should contact theirfinancial advisor before taking any investment actions. S

Honors Congressman

The Academy took time to honor an elected leader who has spent more than three decades in office fighting for military funding, pay, readiness and equipment.

Rep. C.W. Young, R-FL, received the 40th annual Thomas D. White National Defense Award here during a January lunch with cadets at Mitchell Hall.

The T. D. White National Defense Award was established by the Academy in 1962 to recognize an American citizen who is adjudged to have contributed most significantly to the national defense and security of the United States. The award may be made in any field of endeavor, such as science, technology, leadership, management, national affairs, international affairs or a combination thereof.

“This is an awesome award, and I take a real sense of pride as I receive it,” said the congressman. “I will tell you that there are many of my colleagues who are in your Congress who are as equally supportive of the military—as am I—and especially for the quality oflife that is premier in making sure that our fighting forces are ready to fight.”

During his 16 terms in the House of Representatives, Young has proven to be a tenacious champion of national defense, and is now the Chairman of the House Appropriations Committee. His latest efforts included driving House Referendum 3338, the latest Department of Defense appropriations act through Congress, which resulted in a significant pay raise for military members.

“It is a bill which provides strong support for our troops-both in the immediate circumstances they find themselves in, as well as the longer term security challenges confronting our Nation,” Young said.

“You may know that the Defense Subcommittee was

By John Van Winkle Academy Spirit

U.S. Rep. c.w. Young, R-FL, addresses the Cadet Wing at a noon meal in Mitchell Hall, after accepting the T.D. White Award.

actually beginning its subcommittee mark-up of this bill on the very morning of September 1 lth-when our country suffered the horrific attacks on New York and Washington,” he added. “As we all know, those attacks have changed so many, many things—and I can report that this Defense Appropriations bill was re-worked by the committee following the attacks as well as the onset of our military operations overseas, to reflect the new demands of the war on terrorism as well as the other challenges we confront around the world.”

The bill addresses new threats of this new centuryranging from areas such as Ballistic Missile Defense, to force protection measures for our troops in the field, and new equipment and technologies such as aerial refueling aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicles. The bill was signed into law Jan. 10, 2002.

“It also fully funds the President’s initiatives in the

areas of military pay and quality of life programs—such as the largest military pay raise in 15 years, and more than a 50 percent increase in funding for the medical programs supporting our troops and their families. And it includes a new title to deal with counter-terrorism—ranging from more funding for intelligence, to providing additional resources in the area of so-called ‘cyber war’ (computer network protection) and improved equipment and research to counter the threats of chemical and biological weapons,” said Young.

On the Air Force side of the defense funding picture, other results of Young’s efforts this fiscal year include $10,567 billion for aircraft procurement modification and maintenance; almost $3 billion for missile procurement, $866 million for ammunition procurement, and $8 billion for other procurement, including ground vehicles for security enhancement and replacement, and another $7.8 billion for ballistic missile defense programs.

The representative also has direct ties to the Academy, having been a member ofthe Air Force Academy’s Board ofVisitors since 1993. In this capacity, Young is able to ensure our future leaders are given the best possible education in an environment that develops their leadership skills and prepares them for a life dedicated to preserving the freedom our nation enjoys.

In attendance for the award ceremony was Gen. Ed Eberhart, ’68, commander of U.S. Space Command, and Lt. Gen. John Dallager, ’69, Academy superintendent, and several congressional staffers, who were on hand to watch the Cadet Wing’s noon meal formation.

“Ifyou think I’m proud to be here with Lt. Gen. Dallager-who’s my constituent by the way—or to be here with General Eberhart, who has been a longtime friend, you’re right about that,” Young told the Cadet Wing at the ceremony. “If you think I have some pride in having received this award, you’re right about that. But I can’t explain to you the tremendous feeling ofpride that I had when I saw you form up and march in here, as members of the United States Air Force Academy, prepared in just a very short time, to be totally responsible for the security of the greatest nation in the world—the United States ofAmerica. Thank you for what you do.”

The permanent T. D. White plaque is displayed in the Air Force Academy’s Arnold Hall, with the names of the annual winners. Past winners include former Chairmen of the Joint Chiefs ofStaff William J. Crowe and Colin Powell, former President George Bush, former President Ronald Reagan, former Senator Barry M. Goldwater, and entertainer Bob Hope. H

DeBerry Selected for South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame

Courtesty USAFA/AH

Force head football

AL X coach Fisher

DeBerry has been selected for induction into the South Carolina Athletic Hall of Fame. The induction ceremony is May 30 at 7 p.m. in Sumter, S.C.

DeBerry joins former professional athletes Terry Kinard, Sam DeLuca and BillyThompson of the NFL, and Tree Rollins of the NBA headline as inductees. Also being inducted are NASCAR pioneer Harold Brasington and Jim Moss, a former two-time all-conference football star at South Carolina.

DeBerry, a Cheraw native and 1960 graduate ofWofford College, has compiled a 141-78-1 record in 18 seasons at Air Force.

Academy Women’s Rugby Team Wins Championship

Courtesy C1C Koo Kim

The Academy Women’s Rugby Team has won the Division I National Final Four tournament, held May 4 - 5 in Blaine, Minn. With an exciting 7-5 overtime victory over Illinois on the first day ofcompetition, Air Force advanced to play Penn State the following day for the national championship.

In the championship game, Air Force spent most ofthe first half playing defense, with Penn State relentlessly threatening to score. But in the second half, the Falcon women returned to the field with a vengeance, scoring 12 unanswered points to win the championship.

ClC Laura McDonald (ofthe Women’s National under 23 team), was voted Most Valuable Player by tournament officials.

The Marly>f Distincti

The General Richard L. Lawson Graduate Scholarship

The General Richard L. Lawson Graduate Scholarship was established to encourage and reward excellence in communications among cadets at the Air Force Academy. The AOG administers the fund which is awarded to the outstanding graduate cadet in communications.

The Gen. John K. Gerhart Fellowship

The Gen. John K. Gerhart Fellowship is a two-year study program in the French language. All educational costs are paid from a trust fund established in the name of Gen. John. K. Gerhart. The AOG administers the funds.

The Franklin C. Wolfe Fellowship

The Franklin C. Wolfe Fellowship was established in 1966 to support a USAFA cadet in postgraduate education in the field of humanities. The scholarship is supported by interest derived from $25,000 willed to the USAFA by the late Col. Franklin C. Wolfe.

The Earle and Marion Nutter Scholarship

The Earle and Marion Nutter Scholarship is awarded to a graduating cadet who entered the Academy after serving a minimum of nine months active duty as an enlisted member. The field ofstudy for the Nutter Scholarship is varied and the duration ofstudy is 12 to 18 months.

Cadet 1st Class Chad Richards was named the 2002 General Richard L. Lawson Graduate Scholarship winner.

Chad is heavily involved in the USAFA speech and debate program. Along with his partner, Cadet 1 st Class Jason Monaco, they won the Western US Championships and are ranked in the top 10 teams in the US. He has been selected as a finalist in the prestigious US and Irish debate, recognizing the top debaters in each country.

Chad plans to attend graduate school for 12 months, earning a Masters ofScience degree in Operations Research. After graduate school he looks forward to pilot training and a career in the Air Force.

Cadet 1st Class Michael J. Culhane was named the 2002 GeneralJohn K Gerhart Fellowship winner.

Michael majored in Astronautical Engineering and minored in French while attending the Air Force Academy. As a cadet, he was a member of Wings of Blue and had varying leadership roles to include: Parachute Instructor, Group Staffer, Aviation Superintendent, and Squadron Operations Officer for CS-28.

Michael plans to study in Paris for two years and obtain a Masters of Arts degree. Following his studies he will return to Moody AFB, Georgia for pilot training.

Cadet 1st Class Jason Monaco was named the 2002 Franklin C. Wolfe Fellowship winner.

Jason Monaco has devoted much of his time at the Air Force Academy to competition on the Forensics Team. Jason and his partner, Cadet 1st Class Chad Richards, were contenders for the national title as a two-man debate team.

Jasons time at the Academy has been spent serving as a First Group Academic NCO, an Aviation Group Commander, and a Flight Commander. He also spent the fall 2001 semester on exchange at the German Air Force Officers’ School in Fuerstenbruck, Germany.

Jason intends to study history in pursuit of a master’s degree before attending USAF pilot training.

Cadet 1st Class Jereme A. Estes was named the 2002 Earle andMarion Nutter Scholarship winner.

Jereme was a medical technician while serving in the USAF as an enlisted member. He earned his nomination to the Air Force Academy by graduating from the Prep School in the top 1% ofhis class.

Jereme will graduate from the Air Force Academy with a bachelor of science in Management. He became a Soaring Instructor Pilot, earned his jump wings, and completed the SCUBA open water certification program. He served as the spring semester Cadet Second Group Commander and the cadet program manager ofthe Department ofAstronautics’ Small Satellite Program.

Through the Nutter Scholarship, Jereme will attend the University of Pittsburgh.

Cadet Running Suits

Cadet issue item. Available in two styles.

S - XXL (Sizes run large)

Dark blue with reflective strips

Jackets $80.00

Pants $48.00

Light blue with reflective strips

Jackets $ 47.00

Pants $25.00

Sets $67.00

Crew Sweatshirts

Crewneck sweatshirt. Features “Air Force” applique with “Academy" embroidered beneath.

Available in Blue or Gray.

S-XL $29.00

Hooded Zip Sweats

Hooded sweatshirt with pockets. Full length zipper. Features “Air Force" applique with “Academy” embroidered beneath.

Available in Blue or Gray.

S-XL $33.00

Cadet Sweat Suits, T-Shirts & Shorts

Cadet issue items. Oversized to accommodate shrinkage.

Tops (S-XL)

Pants (S-XL)....

Set (S-XL)

T-Shirt (S-XL)...

Shorts (S-XXL)

$35.00 (XXL) $37.00 $22.50 (XXL) $24.50 $55.00 (XXL) $58.00 $ 8.00 (XXL) $ 9.00 $15.00

Blankets

Stadium blanket. “Air Force Academy” and the Academy crest screened on.

Available in blue or gray.

54” x 84” $21.00

Old Fashion glass

Highball

Brandy snifter

Wine glass

Goblet

Pilsner glass

Ceramic Mug, Coasters

12 oz. mug AOG crest on one side and USAFA crest on the other side $ 6.00

Pegasus coasters Terra Cotta and blue. Water absorbent.

Set of four $25.00

Leather coasters in tin case.

Three with AOG crest and three with USAFA crest.

Set of six $15.00

Saber

Official United States Air Force Academy Cadet Saber.

Available to Grad members only.

Saber with scabbard $185.00

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 $70.00

Wooden chapel plaque $ 17.00

Walnut plaque Laser engraved of the cadet area. Can be purchased with or without a plate suitable for engraving. $ 110.00

Fine Art Prints

1- Footfalls Artist Proofs (13x21)

2- Here’s a Toast By Keith Ferris (24x20)

3-Gyrfalcon By Frace (26x20)

4-Thunderbird By Rick Broome (27x20)

5-Aurora By Gallo (16x19)

Item #0323 $ 150.00

Item #0320 $ 60.00

Item #0321 $ 75.00

Item #0322 $ 85.00

Item #0324 $ 85.00

Art prints 1-5 are signed and numbered. Print 3 is signed only.

Also available signed and numbered class prints for '95-’98 and ’01.

To order call 719 472.0300

The information reflected in the directory is obtained from members ofthe 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 ofapproximately 18,000 graduates in business across the country and worldwide. Born from the beliefthat the Associations ofGraduates 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.

Please send copies of the 2002 SABRD at $40.00 each (plus $8.95 shipping and handling, $48.95 total ea.)

Please use this address in the AOG Database:

□□□□

Mail to: The Association of Graduates, 3116

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

Books and Videos

Into the Mouth of the Cat* The story of Lance Sijan, ’65

The Rescue of BAT 21 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)

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.

’92 Notebook Item #5392 $ 10.00 ’98 Notebook

’93 Notebook Item #0540 ’99 Notebook

#5394 ’00

AOG Accessories & Other Items

Class

...Item #0340 $ 4.00

...Item #0341 $ 27.95

...Item #0342 $19.95

...Item #0344 $21.95

...Item #0345 $24.95

...Item #0347 $50.00

...Item #0348 $22.00

...Item #0349 $49.50

...Item #0350 $10.00

...Item #0352 $10.00

...Item #0354 $38.95

...Item #0510 $19.00

...Item #0351 $40.00

Item

A

Blue

Pins

AFA hat w/class year. Navy blue w/embroidered AFA crest and class year. Please specify class year.

Adjustable strap for fit Item #0311 $16.00

Class Crested Merchandise

The AOG has obtained excess merchandise from the Visitors Center that remained from recent graduating classes and reunions.

Items are in limited quantities, sizes and colors and availability varies from class to class and includes: sweatshirts, clipper jackets, T-shirts, buttons, etc.

This merchandise is only available for the following classes:

’68 ’69 73 74 78 79 ’86 ’87 ’88

’95 ’96 ’97 ’98 ’99 ’00 ‘01

The AOG also has Class decals for all classes; AFA hats with class year embroidered (except ’66, ’69, ’71, ’76, '80, '81, ’83, and ’89); and embossed notebooks (for ’66, ’91-’95, ’97-’02 only)

Partial listing of available class crested items can be found on AOG web page under “merchandise/special sale items.” You can also email Celeste at merchandise@aog-usafa.org or call (719) 472-0300, ext. 521.

SACC

Services

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

A great opportunity: In April, I attended the Service Academy Career Conference (SACC) in Washington DC and as advertised people got what they wanted. The 50 companies that set up shop were eager to interview the 600 plus Academy graduates that attended and from what I saw, about 100 candidates were offered jobs that day while many more were set up with follow-up interviews. There are two more SACC’s this year that are expected to offer the same opportunities. Ifyou are thinking about transitioning out of the military or to another civilian job, I strongly encourage you to go to Seattle or Dallas to see what may be out there for you. Wayne Taylor can discuss these SACC’s or any of the other career opportunity programs the AOG offers.

I have received several positive comments about the new Services section. We’ll try to continue to provide items of interest to you. If you have any comments or suggestions on meeting your needs, email me at rich.downing@usafa.af.mil.

TA.

Class Rings

2003 orders rings: Jostens arrived en masse in January to complete the ring orders for the next group of Firsties. Not unexpected, the most common ring ordered was a 14k, blue star sapphire with two diamond dividers. While the individual prices have decreased to cadets by 20% since the AOG signed a long-term contract with Jostens, cadets are spending more by including additional options and upgrading to genuine stones. The average cost for rings ordered was $ 1147 and the most expensive ring ordered was $5644!!! Also, starting with this class, Jostens has expanded their stone warranty to lifetime replacement for any damaged stone to include all genuine stones. This is a superb no-cost benefit.

Widows of Grads

Spouses of deceased grads: While your address is normally omitted from future issues of the Register of Graduates after the death of the graduate, you may now ask to have it remain. Having your name and address included under the graduate name allows classmates and other Acad-

emy friends to stay in contact with you. Ifyou would like your address to be included in the Register of Graduates, email donna.porter@usafa.af.mil or contact her by phone before 31 August 2002 to provide name and address as you would like it to appear.

Retirement

Retirement eligibility: AFPC and the Academy continue to field questions about cadet time counting toward retirement. While the bottom line is NO it does not count, there are some interesting aspects of your time here that you need to know (especially item 4):

1. Commissioning/graduation date starts both time in service date and pay date for retirement. The four years in the cadet wing do not count as active duty time and therefore are not used to calculate time in service for retirement.

2. USAFA time does count for longevity (ribbon).

3. Prep school time is considered active duty for purposes of pay, retirement, and longevity. It is considered a year of CHECKPOINTS, SPRING 2002

active duty as Preppies were Airmen in the AF.

4. The date of entry to the Academy does dictate which retirement plan graduates are eligible to retire under (e.g. final pay, top three, etc). There are several examples of this being calculated incorrectly which reduced retirement pay. This especially impacts mid/late 80’s classes when these changes occurred. Questions on retirement should be directed to your local Military Personnel Office.

Joint Academy Travel

Joint Travel Program: Look for information soon about an AOG-sponsored travel program for 2003. Currently we are planning six trips jointly with the other service academies. These joint trips have proven very popular with Army and Navy as we all tend to share the same background and experiences even if we don’t speak exactly the same language. Right now we are proposing trips to China, Alaska, Italy (2) and France (2). Information should be in the mail and on the website within the next few months. D>

Insurance

Long-term Care (LTC) insurance: Final agreement was reached with General Electric (GE) on an AOG-endorsed program for most states. Unfortunately, because of individual state restrictions, mailings for Texas and Florida will be delayed until later in the year. While the government is also now offering LTC insurance to active duty and retired personnel, GE offers a great alternative for comparison or selection and for those who do not carry a military ID, it offers a great solution to future needs.

Reunions

Prep School Reunion: For the first time the Prep School will hold a reunion for their graduates. It is a way to reunite this unique group, to reintroduce them with ongoing Prep School success and challenges and to motivate current preppies. The reunion is scheduled for 30 Oct through 3 Nov and will include Academy/

Seekers

CSU football, several Prep School sports events, and numerous activities at the Prep School. For more information, please contact Lani Wing at lani.wing@usafa.af.mil. Go EIuskiesH

Saber Rental

Saber Rental: Weddings and other special events often require use ofsabers that you probably do not have. The AOG has 14 sets of six sabers that are available for rent and that can be shipped anywhere in the US. Sabers can be reserved up to 12 months in advance. April through August is the busiest time for rentals, to ensure Saber availability, please call early. For more information email steve.knight@usaf a.af.mil or call the AOG.

Commemorative Program

Graduation Commemorative: While work on the 2002 Class print by local artist Rick Broome is nearing completion, the Class of 2003 has decided to use a

painting to capture their Class Spirit and has also selected Rick Broome to create the work. Once completed, it will be offered to the class members and their families in lithograph and canvas versions. The “work in progress” painting will be on display at Mitchell Hall during the Class of 2003 Ring Dining Out. You can see the 2003 initial drawing at http://rickbroome.com. Information on the 2002 print is available at http://rickbroome.com/02order.htm.

Correction

Correction: While at the Jostens’ plant to finalize their crest design, the Class of 2004 modified their crest from only having two airplanes as shown in the last issue of Checkpoints, to one depicting three airplanes. The three airplanes, an F-16 and two F-15 s add up to 46, representing their graduating sequence at the Academy.

ther Job Opportunities Program

Another job opportunities programs offered by the AOG, in conjunction with the other service academies, is JSAJE—Joint Service Academies Jobs Electronically. JSAJE is available both to the job seeker and to the employer who is looking for a cost effective and timeless way to reach service academy graduates.

There is ng^eharge to enter the JSAJE site. Simply go to the AOG webww.aog-usafa.org, click on “Graduate Job Programs” then JSAJE. You will have to register to validate that you are user and, once that is done, you can search for jobs industry, location, salary, or company size.

effective way to advertise your job openeglster to access the system. Simply go to the aog-usafa.org, click on “Graduate Job Programs”

|/tfhVf6 JSAJE and follow the instructions for registering as loyer. Registration costs nothing. Once you have registered, ib listing, view your previous postings, edit your view the costs of posting jobs on JSAJE.

Postings are valid for a period of 60 days and the cost ranges from $30 to $60, depending on the number of ads you are posting.

For more information about JSAJE or any of the AOG’s job opportunities programs, contact Wayne Taylor at career@aog-usafa.org or call (719) 472-0300

Chapter Mem

Outlook

The Alamo Chapter (TX)

We have several new members in 2002 that, we feel, have brought ideas for events that are of interest to all grads in the San Antonio area. Larry Romo, ’78, is planning for graduates to gather in October at an American Legion Post to cheer on Air Force to a victory over Notre Dame. We will also get together for other televised AFA football games—Go Falcons!! Kay Grosinske and Mike Nishimuta are looking into several community service activities that the Chapter members can participate in. These and other events will be posted on the Alamo AOG web page www. texascomputerhelp.com/aog.htm. Mike put his talents to work to get it up and running and it can be accessed through the national AOG web site. Although Alamo Chapter members will be notified of events through snail or e-mail whenever possible, they can also check the Alamo AOG web page for current information about chapter events.

The Arizona Chapter (AZ)

Ron, ’71 and Barb Marusiak have graciously agreed to again host a July 4th Party (fireworks, dessert, beverages) at their house right on the golf course where the fireworks are set off. The party will start around 7:30 p.m. on July 4th, at 5742 East Orangeblossom, Phoenix, AZ 85018. Please RSVP directly to Barb Marusiak at (480) 949-5957.

Air Force plays UNLV at an away football game on Saturday, Nov 16, 2002. If there is enough interest for this game, we will plan a tailgate party up in Las Vegas. Please let Tim Furst know ifyou are interested. Contact Tim at (480) 705-3845 or tfurst@sprintmail.com. If you wish to find out more about the chapter, contact Jim Sienicki, ’74 atjsienicki@swlaw.com.

The Mid-Atlantic Chapter (PA)

The newly-formed Mid-Atlantic Chapter conducted its first planning meeting in Philadelphia in April. This chapter, encompassing Eastern Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and Northern Delaware, will be planning a host ofactivities for the remainder of2002. Check out their webpage atwww.usafagraduates.org for more details.

The New England Chapter (MA)

Greetings from the New England area! Our Chapter went on a soothing hibernation in preparation for an especially foul winter this year. Lucky for us a traditional New England winter never hit...but we sure are well rested and are now running full speed. Remember, membership is FREE. For more information on the NEAOG and our upcoming activities, or ifyou would like to volunteer and help out, please contact Rob Mishev, ’99, at robert.mish ev@hanscom.af.mil or (781) 271-3826.

The North Texas Association (TX)

Upcoming Events include: Tri-Service Softball Tournament in Jun. 2002, Fall BBQ & USAFA Football watch in Sept. 2002, and Tri-Service Flag Football Game in Nov. 2002. For questions concerning any of the past, or future NTAAFAG events, please contact Buddy Lott at buddylott@earthlink.net, orvp@ntaafag.org, or visit our Web Site at http://ntaafag.org.

The Puget Sound Chapter (WA)

The chapter’s future activities include a wine tour of eastern Washington wineries in June, Sea Fair party in August, and the annual Joint Services Academy Dinner in the fall. Look out for mailers in the near future. Don’t forget to check out our web site at http: //home.attbi.comUketone64/PSAOG_ Website.htm. If you’re interested in joining us please contact Brian DeLuca at (206) 5272218 or Joe Cavazzini at (425) 742-7630. We have members from as far away as Oregon CHECKPOINTS, SPRING 2002

and Eastern WA, as well as the Puget Sound locals, so come on out and join us.

The Northern California Chapter (CA)

The Northern California chapter is reinventing itself with an exciting series of events planned for the year. Aiming to appeal to members throughout the Bay Area, there is something planned for everybody. Members can look forward to getting together for picnics, airshows, Air Force athletic events, guest speakers and some great comraderie and networking amongst fellow USAFA grads and other service academy groups in Northern California. Chapter points of contact, photos, employment news and an annual calendar are posted on the web page at www.usafagraduates.org.

So, plan to reconnect this year with fellow grads in the area! If you have any questions or ideas for the group, please contact Jim Martin, ’63, at (408) 395 2039.

The Swamp Fox Chapter (SC)

The Association of Graduates (AOG)

believes the time is right to start a “Swamp Fox” Chapter of the AOG, here in the low country of South Carolina. We already had a luncheon in April but this was just one way we can stay in touch, have some fun, and make a difference. Other ideas include:

-Support of the local AFA Liaisons

-Support of the local AFA Parents groups

-Support of the local ROTC (both High School and College)

-Support Charleston AFB leadership

-Support grads jobhunting

-Great tailgate and golfoutings!

There will be two games on ESPN this next season that should lead to at least two great tailgate parties! For more information, contact Richard Hayes, Col. (Ret.), ’73 at (843)225-1882 orrhayes73@aol.com

The Western Pennsylvania Chapter (PA)

The newly-formed Western Pennsylvania Chapter conducted its first planning meeting in Pittsburgh in April. This chapter, encompassing Western Pennsylvania, Eastern Ohio, and Northern West Virginia, will be hosting an event in conjunction with an airshow at the end of June. Check out their webpage at www.usafagraduates.org for more information. t>

Chapter Goals

1.

3.

4.

5.

6.

7.

8.

9. Assist Parents’ Clubs/Cadets

GOAL 1

Celebrate Academy Heritage

The Alamo Chapter (TX) - Larry Romo notified the Chapter that the USAF Academy Drum & Bugle Corp would perform at various events during San Antonio’s exciting and festive Fiesta held the last week in April. In addition, the USAF Academy Rugby Club competed against West Point and Annapolis rugby teams in the Alamo City Fiesta Rugby Tournament, also during Fiesta. All San Antonio area grads were encouraged to support these Academy activities.

The North Texas Association (TX) - The Annual Founder’s Day Dinner was held on 6 April. Dining, Dancing, Tall Tales, and general conversation were the order of the evening. A chance to excel, in having fun, was missed by those NTAAFAG members failing to attend.

The Northwest Florida Chapter (FL)This chapter wants to publicly recognize the significant contributions of graduates in the senior ranks of Eglin and Hurlburt.

Lt. Gen. Clay Bailey, ’69 retired from the AF Special Operations Command after 33 distinguished years of service and his deputy, Dick Comer, ’73 was just announced as a two star selectee.

The 53rd Wing Commander is Joe Reynes, ’78 who escaped from OSD back

to flying while his deputy, Jimmy Carter, ’76 mans the office.

A name on the latest Wing Commander’s List is Tom Masiello, ’81 who will leave the Munitions Directorate (Armament Lab to the old-timers) to take over a Wing at Nellis.

Hawk Carlisle, ’78 is in charge of the 33 Fighter Wing Nomads, the best Air-to-Air Wing in the AF (16 enemy kills in Desert Storm). Needless to say in this community, each of these individuals is active in promoting the message of the Air Force to civic and military gatherings.

GOAL 2

Keep abreast of Air Force and USAFA topics

The Alamo Chapter (TX) - The chapter held its annual Founders’ Day Dinner Dance on 13 Apr. 02 at the Petroleum Club. We enjoyed hearing our guest speaker, Lt. Gen. John R. Dallager, USAFA Superintendent, give us an update on the Academy.

GOAL 4

Provide graduates networking opportunities

The Alamo Chapter (TX) - Although a newcomer to the Alamo Chapter, Mike Nishimuta, ’73, has brought many new ideas and initiatives to the Chapter. Mike and Asa Christensen, ’01, are working together to resurrect the Alamo Chapter Business and Networking Group (BANG) activities.

GOAL 5

Interact with other service academy graduates

The Alamo Chapter (TX) - Mike Nishimuta coordinated with San Antonio West Point grads to attend their monthly networking meeting. Several Chapter members attended and the value of networking has already paid off for one of our USAFA graduates.

The Arizona Chapter (AZ) - Our thanks to Bob Mazet, ’63 for hosting the Super Bowl Sunday party on Feb 3, 2002. Thanks to everyone that made this a fun and memorable event.

GOAL 3

Keep the local community abreast of USAFA topics

The Space Chapter is also supporting initiatives to create opportunities in Colorado Springs for better public understanding ofthe Air Force’s space activities and the Academy’s contributions to the nations space capabilities. We are continuing to work with the National Space Science and Technology Institute to help create a Space Journey Exploration Center in the Springs that could be a major new attraction in the region. Also, still under investigation are ways to use the exhibit space at the Academy Visitors Center to highlight cadet and graduate space-related activities.

The North Texas Association (TX) - Anxious golfers had the light at the end ofthe tunnel in sight. It was not a train, but the first of two NTAAFAG golf events for 2002. The Tri-Service event took place on 21 April, and afforded the members of the graduating classes ofthe three service academies an opportunity to compete once again on the friendly field of athletic competition. Blood, sweat, and tears flowed, and the effort, by all, was astronomical. Tune in next quarter for the official results.

The Puget Sound Chapter (WA) - March has hit us with a roar here in the Pacific Northwest. In between snow and ice storms we celebrated another “Dark Ages” bash at Richard Belden’s, ’69. Once again a gathering of about 30 grads, spouses, and friends were treated to the culinary expertise of chef Brian DeLuca, ’67. Lots of good food, friends, and great stories were shared throughout the night. The “Dark Ages” Party is truly one of the chapter’s best highlights of the year! D>

GOAL 6

Give back to the community

The Swamp Fox Chapter (SC) - The Boy Scouts in Charleston called the AOG looking for an Air Force Academy graduate who would be willing to attend the “pinning on” of a new Eagle Scout who had aspirations of attending the Academy. With one e-mail, Richard Hayes, ’73, stepped forward to sponsor this Scout. He attended the event, spoke with the Scout about the Academy, and appeared on stage to shake the Scouts’ hand.

The Arizona Chapter (AZ) - On Saturday, Mar 2, 2002 the Air Force Academy Cadet Chorale and Phoenix Boys & Men’s Choirs performed at the Voices Take Flight ALS benefit concert in Phoenix. Our thanks to Curt Schilling, the World Series co-MVP, and his wife, Shonda Schilling, who along with me, Jim Sienicki, were the master of ceremonies for the benefit concert, for their time, efforts, and charity. Thanks also to Arizona Chapter members Frank Schmuck, Robert Wagner, Chris Rubacha, Tim Furst, Ron Marusiak, and their spouses (and my spouse) for their hard work and the many hours they spent organizing this worthwhile event. Frank Schmuck and Robert Wagner were the cochairmen of the event. The Cadet Chorale put on a world class performance. The benefit was very successful in raising money to fight ALS, and a first class event ofwhich the entire Arizona Chapter should be proud.

GOAL 7

Support the needs and objectives of the Academy

The Space Chapter - New Chapter contacts with the Commandant’s organization are leading to innovative approaches to train and educate cadets about the operational and doctrinal side of Air Force space activities. One of our near-term priorities is to strengthen support to the Commandant and his programs, including an initiative to develop a facility in the cadet area for cadet training in space operations and information operations with a simulated Air Ops Center, space simulators, etc.

We are also beginning planning for new initiatives to support cadet space-related activities, such as the cadet chapter of the National Space Society.

As the nation and the Air Force come to better understand the value of space power, the Chapter continues to strengthen our rela70

tionship with USAFA. Air Force leadership, including Secretary Roche, has made it clear that USAF performance in space will be a key indicator of how well the Air Force as a whole fulfills its responsibilities in the 21st century. Included in the Secretary’s focus areas is the recognition that the Air Force must have the right people with the right skills to strengthen the contribution ofspace to the national defense. In addition to building a space-sawy officer corps, there is indication that the AF will accelerate efforts to develop a space cadre. In discussions with Academy leadership, it is clear that they understand this message, and that USAFA will play a critical role in meeting these needs

For example, the Secretary has made it clear that the Academy’s technical curriculum is a vital part ofcadet education. The Space Chapter continues to work with the Dean’s academic departments to review and provide suggestions for strengtheningspace-oriented curricula. Although the Chapter’s primary focus on the technical side has been with the Astronautics Department, we’ve also been impressed with space-oriented courses and other experiences in areas of space biology and space physics, taught by those departments.

Our updated web site at usafaspace.tripod.com provides an excellent overview of Chapter activities. Webmaster Tina Visco, ’92, has added chat room feature to promote better communication among Chapter members and others interested

New Chapters Existing chapters

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in promoting USAFA space-related activities. We continue to add members to the Space Chapter. For more info contact Stan Rosen, ’69 at (310)364-5746, srosen6@aol.com.

GOAL 9

Assistparents' clubs/cadets

The North Texas Association (TX) - On the weekend of 15 Feb, NTAAFAG hosted the AFA baseball team, playing in the Dallas Morning News Invitational Baseball Tournament, at a picnic prior to their game with the University ofTexas. Attending the picnic, besides the players, coaches, and traveling staff, were Association members, wives, Liaison Officers, local cadet parents, and potential AFA candidates and appointees. The weather was great, the activities were welcome, and the turnout was strong. It was a great chance to show support of our cadets! A short business meeting, to make January NTAAFAG Officer nominations official, followed the picnic. The Officers for 2002 are as follows: President, Bob Pavelko, ’68; Vice President, Buddy Lott, ’76; Secretary/Treasurer, Kim Shultz, ’84.

NEW CHAPTERS IN 2002

The AOG is moving fast to start new chapters Our goal is to give you the opportunity to “get connected.” Ifyou can help get a chapter started, please contact us at chapters@aog-usafa.org.

What is SACC?

The SACCis 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 Westin Seattle in Seattle, WA. You may obtain a room for the SACC rate, if available. Call (206) 728-1000 for reservations and ask for the SACC rate. There are many other hotels available in the area or stay with classmates or family.

How to register for the SACC

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

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 “graduatejob programs” and follow the instructions.

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

4. To participate in the next SACC, send the following to the SACC office no later than August 5, 2002:

- Completed registration forms - A $35 registration fee, payable to SACC - Two hard copies of your resume (one page/one side)

NAME (for name tag, no ranks):

ADDRESS:

5. The schedule for the SACC is:

Thursday, August 22, 2002

- Interview Prep Seminar at 7 p.m.

Friday, August 23, 2002

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

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

Saturday, August 24, 2002

- Recruiters may schedule individual interviews.

When attending the SACC, bring several copies of your resume to leave with recmiters as they review resumes collected at the conference and may contact candidates at a later date. Although employment is not guaranteed, the conference offers a unique chance to explore new career opportunities. If you have any questions on this AOG membership service, please contact Wayne Taylor at (719) 472-0300 or DSN 333-4513.

USAFA CLASS:

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

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

Will you attend the free Interview Prep Seminar? □ Yes □ No

Mail

SACC Candidate Registration Form (Seattle, WA.)

The Sabre Society

The Sabre Society was established in 1995 to recognize and honor the Annual Fund’s most loyal and generous donors. The Annual Fund has enjoyed tremendous growth and much ofthat is thanks to the members of our Sabre Society. The Society has become the single most important source ofunrestricted private funds to the United States Air Force Academy (USAFA) through the Annual Fund.

The Society continues to grow. Today, there are over 840 members-the goal for this year is to reach 1000 members. The Class of’70 still leads with 54 members, the Class of’69 is close behind with 53 and the Class of’64 has 50 members. However, the Class of’59 still has the highest percentage ofmembers at 17.9%.

The Sabre Society has three key objectives:

1. To establish a select group of long-term benefactors who have a clear and tangible interest in supporting the Academy, both financially and through personal influence.

2. To provide a visible and prestigious means to honor and recognize the Academy’s leading supporters.

3. To form a national network of influential community leaders who are informed advocates ofAcademy causes.

Why do people give to the Annual Fund through the Sabre Society?

1. People give because they want to give back.

2. People give to have the opportunity to meet personal needs by supporting a worthy charitable aim. All donations to the Sabre Society are fully tax deductible.

3. People give because they want to belong.

4. People give so they can be directly linked to Academy leadership. Regional events provide the opportunity to interact with USAFA leadership and to dialogue about

the state of the Academy.

5. People give to stay connected. Sabre Society members have access to inside information.

Why does the Academy need private funds?

At every university across the country, private funds are supplementing and improving upon the education that is provided by the primary revenue source, usually tuition. The Academy is no different. While the government still pays for the essential core elements to train and educate Air Force officers, private funds provide vital support for Academy programs and activities that make the cadet educational experience one of the top in our nation. Graduates who have benefited from an extraordinary (and, yes, very demanding) experience can help ensure that future classes receive the same extraordinary experience.

During the 2001/2002 Academic Year, the Association ofGraduates (AOG) provided more than $800,000 from private donations to support USAFA’s Gift Opportunities List which exceeds $2.8 million annually. Sabre Society member donations are key to supporting programs like the Academy Character Enrichment Seminars (ACES), the Military History Symposium, the National Character and Leadership Symposium, and Cadet Summer Research and Engineering Programs. Direct support to Cadet Clubs, Prep School Varsity Athletics and the Falcon Heritage Forum also comes from the AOG.

“Catch the Match!”

These are very exciting times at the Academy and the AOG. You may have already heard that the AOG has an opportunity to receive an additional $100,000 for the Annual Fund.

John Martin, ’69 decided to do something significant for the Academy after attending the change-of-command ceremony for his classmate, Lt. Gen. JD Dallager, ’69, as Superintendent. “The pride I felt then in JD’s career and the accomplishment ofall grads made me realize it was time to give back, time to do something to help ensure that the level of excellence at the Academy stays high.”

In addition to an extraordinary personal gift, John offered to give an extra $ 1,000 for each graduate who signs up for a five-year commitment to the Sabre Society before June 30, 2002. The goal is to add at least 100 new members. To date, 74 grads have elected to “Catch the Match.”

Please consider this opportunity to support the Air Force Academy with a pledge to the Sabre Society and help take full advantage of John’s challenge. Help enable the Academy to “preserve the traditions and values.. .that all grads treasure.” The deadline is June 30 to make your tax deductible gift work double by catching the match. Don’t delay!

You may direct your questions about the Sabre Society to:

Becky Hureau at becky.hureau@usafa.af.mil, Kathy McCann at kathy.mccann@usafa.af.mil or by calling (719) 472-0300.

15Cuts 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.

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The North Star, the guiding light, a light that lives on long after the star is gone!

our light can live on long after you are gone by making a 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 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 as Polaris Donors!

olaris will recognize everyone who has included a gift to the AOG and the 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.

The needs of the Academy are increasing each year and the Academy’s future success will depend on private support. Help provide that support byleaving a legacy. Light the way for the future. Be a Polaris Donor! For further information, contact Gary Howe by e-mail Gary.Howe@usafa.af.mil or call him at (719) 472-0300.

Matching Gifts

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 Procter & 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 ofgiving 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.

Benefits to Donor

Full income tax deduction.

Immediate impact to AOG/USAFA.

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

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

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

Donor retains use for life. Partial income

deduction. Estate tax savings.

Immediate impact for AOG/USAFA.

The Secret Life of WaldoF. Durobsquat

C/4C Waldo F. Dumbsquat and his roommate, “Regs” Buch, double-timed on the marble strip across the windswept terrazzo. Clad in Service Bravo, the doolies headed toward the sanctuary ofArnold Hall. After greeting three upperclassmen and a tourist, they finally arrived at the Chapel Ramp. Passing the Cadet Chapel, Waldo and Regs gazed around looking for the elusive Chapel Guides.

No joy.

Pressing on, the disappointed freshmen reached the glass doors and entered the recreation building. Sliding their flight caps under their trouser belts, they eagerly looked for an open pay phone. Unfortunately, all phones were in use.

“Let’s bowl a few lines and come back to the phones,” suggested Waldo.

“Okay,” sighed Regs, “there’s nothing I like better than wearing clown shoes that have been on a million other cadet feet.”

“Bowling shoes aren’t so bad. I have a red and green pair at home I wore in high school. Luckily those were the school colors,” Waldo informed his astonished friend. “I shared them with my family. Everything was fine until my father joined a bowling league. I couldn’t go out on Mondays or Wednesdays...”

“That’s bizarre!” noted Regs.

“I even ran track in a pair my senior year...”

“Really?”

“They were also a big hit at the prom...”

“Oh, stop it!”

“What did I say?”

At the end ofthe hallway the doolies stood in front ofwhat once had been the cadet bowling alley. A dark room filled with video games beckoned to the freshmen.

by Don Hall, 76

“What happened here?” asked a confused Waldo.

“Looks like they ripped out the lanes and put in an arcade,” observed Regs.

“First they move Pegasus, now the bowling alley is gone. Next thing you know, they’ll decommission four squadrons...”

“Psst.. .Waldo.” Regs tried to clue in his friend. “They already closed four squadrons in Fourth Group.”

“Is nothing sacred?” the doolie demanded. “At least West Point has many years oftradition untouched by progress.”

“The only constant at USAFA is change,” noted Regs knowingly.

Determined to right the unrightable wrong, Waldo disappeared into the firstie bar, “Hap’s Place”, whispered the magic words “diggers and fillers.” Instantly, Waldo transformed magically into Colonel Dumbsquat, a man who graduated from 37th Squadron. The massive officer moved to the Arnold Hall command post via perfect 30-inch strides. A surprised NCOIC gave the officer access to his phone. Colonel Dumbsquat called the civil engineers.

“Now hear this. Build a bowling alley ASAP. That is all. Dumbsquat out.”

His work done, the colonel ducked into a nearby latrine and mutated back into his puny freshman form. Rejoining Regs, Waldo brushed some dust off his blue trou.

“I guess we better get out of the way before the polished wood shows up,” warned Waldo.

“Oh, come on, Waldo. It will be weeks before the work starts.”

“In that case, I have time to ask my mom to send out my shoes.”

“Won’t your mother be wearing those shoes?” kidded Regs.

“No,” Waldo sighed. “She could never find a matching purse.”

Class of 1987

Jara N. Allen

Timothy G. Fay

David C. Gould, II

Joseph T. Guastella, Jr.

Sean R. Herr

Joseph C. Hickox

Pamela J. Kaufman

James L. MacFarlane

Michael J. Miller

Patrick X. Mordente

Anthony J. Murch

Michael E. Peterson

Trent A. Pickering

Phillip R. J. Pratzner

Mary M. Pulliam

Gregory J. Schwartz

Sara E. Zabel

Joseph A. Zahn

Class of 1988

Nina M. Armagno

Sam C. Barrett

Charles L. Beames

Timothy E. Bush

Jeffrey T. Butler

James L. Cardoso

Edward S. Conant

Dawn M. Dunlop

Michael F. Fleck

Thomas L. Gibson

Bradley K. Hammer

Johnathan B. Hughes

William K. Lewis

Terrance J. McCaffrey, II

Douglas R. Miller

Shaun Q. Morris

Ricky R. Murphy

Parker W. Northrup, III

John T. Quintas

James A. Regenor

Lee W. Rosen

Michael P. Stapleton

Cristina M. Stone

Shaun B. Turner

Class of 1989

Kevin J. Anderson

John D. Bird, II

Scott A. Kindsvater

Charles L .Moore Jr.

William A. Reese

Andrew J. Toth

Note: Jay M. Stone, ’88, was also selected below the zone in the Biomedical Sciences Corps Category.

Our affiliation with NAI and membership in the Society of Office and Industrial Realtors (SIOR) enables us to provide you with quality, local representation in most primary and secondary markets for your office, industrial, retail and investment requirements. Our local market knowledge, coupled with global reach, enables you to outsource many of your commercial real estate needs.

eneral helped introduce> first. female cadets to the academy

Story and photo by 2nd Lt. Gailyn Whitman Air Force Materiel Command Public Affairs

in Colorado opened its doors to a new era in service history when the first cadre of female cadets crossed into the blue.

There to help them maneuver through uncharted territory was then 2nd Lt. Terry Walter.

While in her earlier role, now Brig. Gen. Terry Gabreski, Air Force Materiel Command’s director of logistics, she served as one of 15 air training officers, known as ATOs. These officers served as role models and surrogate upperclassmen to the new female cadets when the Academy opened its doors to them in 1976 as members of the class of 1980.

Today, Gabreski is the last remaining air training officer on active duty, and she said she believes it is important to look back on the role of women in the military.

The academy prepared for integrating women cadets in 1976 by dusting off a plan from 1955 when the academy first opened its doors. The plan was to use commissioned officers to act as air training officers or surrogate upperclassmen for incoming cadets.

A significant number of female junior officers applied for the ATO positions to support the female cadets of the class of 1980, Gabreski said.

The new ATOs began a rigorous training program in mid-January to learn the “ins and outs” of academy life.

Ail but one of the ATOs had their hair cut short and all were stripped of traditional aspects of customs and courtesies. The only indication of their officership that remained was their lieutenant’s bars.

The training program lasted nearly six months and encompassed most of the training the new cadets in the Class of 1980 would see during the next four years. They began with basic cadet training where their instructors were first and second class cadets.

In a 1976 interview for Airman magazine, Gabreski said, “Once they got over the fact we were officers and girls too, they realized all they were supposed to do was train us as cadets. And they did it. They yelled at us, braced us against the walls, and made us ‘know knowledge’ [recite basic Air Force knowledge], just like we were basic cadets.”

Looking back at her time as an ATO, she said, “Our job as ATOs was more than just surrogate upperclassmen for the female cadets. We were there to help the upper class cadets learn to train female cadets.”

Gabreski recalled a cadet asking how to handle a female cadet crying. She told the cadet to handle it the same way he would have with a man.

“Tell her it’s not acceptable behavior,” she said.

The new ATOs learned survival, evasion, resistance and escape training as well as cadet wing orientation. The orientation involved assuming roles of upper class and lower

“We weren’t there to be house mothers to these women...We were there to teach them how to be good cadets and become good Air Force officers.

class cadets, physical conditioning, various airmanship programs, field training and auditing academic courses.

Special counseling courses enabled the ATOs to help women cadets with potential personal problems, she said.

“We weren’t there to be house mothers to these women,” Gabreski said. “We were there to teach them how to be good cadets and become good Air Force officers.”

The ATOs were watched closely during training by academy staff, she said.

“They wanted to see if we could keep up, and give us a piece of the academy experience,” Gabreski said.

Lt. Gen. Charles Coolidge, ’68, AFMC Vice Commander, worked as a physics instructor in 1976 when women first entered the academy.

He recalled working with the ATOs, especially in 1977 when he took command of the cadet parachute program.

Coolidge was responsible for redesigning the jump harness to accommodate a woman’s frame, and he worked closely with the young Gabreski. She, along with several other ATOs, participated in the parachute program to help integrate women into the program.

As a result, Gabreski was the first Air Force woman to receive her jump wings in the academy jump program after completing the required five jumps.

Coolidge said he was “impressed by the job the ATOs did.”

“Their success is evident in the low attrition rate and continued success of the women of the Class of 1980,” Coolidge said.

The Class of 1980 began with 156 women. At the end of the first semester only eight percent of the female cadets had left class, compared to 10.9 percent for males.

Gabreski remained at the academy until September 1977 when she returned to her job as an aircraft maintenance officer at Shaw Air Force Base, S.C. She said her time at the academy gave her many opportunities she would not have gotten otherwise, and she is happy she helped normalize the presence ofwomen at the academy.

Since the initial entry of women to the academy, 2,480 women have graduated and joined the ranks ofAir Force officers. Their jobs are farranging now, since the combat roles restriction has been lifted.

Air Force personnel experts said there are female officers in almost every field of service from public affairs to astronauts, fighter pilots to maintenance officers.

“The future for women in the Air Force is defined by their capabilities and hard work,” Gabreski said. “I’m proud to have taken a role in shaping what the academy is today.” H

AOG Annual Giving

Have You Joined the SABRE SOCIETY?

The Sabre Society was established in 1995 to honor people who were committed to leading the way for a better Academy. Today the Society has more than 840 graduates, parents and friends of the Academy on its rolls.

An unrestricted gift of $1,000 annually qualifies you for membership and the gift may be given in monthly, quarterly or single annual installments. Contact the AOG today to become a member. Enjoy the camaraderie of committed people helping to make the future of the Academy stronger.

Look Beyond Today’s Nasty Headlines

the good, the bad, and the ugly

By Lt. Col. Hal Hoxie

94th Flying Training Squadron Commander

Photo Illustration by Jennifer Brugman, Academy Spirit

t seems that every time I turn around the Air Force Academy is being criticized by the American press for “serious problems.” I’ve been assigned here for 18 months and during that time the press has published complaints of our neighbors about the Academy’s noisy flying operations. They question the decision each time punishment is doled out to wayward cadets. Finally, the press willingly critiques the officers running the Academy and calls for restructuring the cadet honor code. It sounds like Americans feel the whole Academy system doesn’t work anymore. So, I am confused...for almost 19 years I’ve worked with graduates and I am amazed that an institution that has effectively produced outstanding officers for over 40 years gets bashed so much by society.

I’d like to counter some of the cold press and focus a minute on warmer observations I’ve made while working here the past 18 months. For all of you insiders-those doing the work in the trenches, grads and non-grads alike, who love the Air Force and all it stands for: don’t be confused! When all is said and done, the facts really aren’t that tainted. The Academy produces fine second lieutenants. The training under the honor code gives men and women a framework to make tough decisions and 99 percent ofAmerica is proud to send their sons and daughters to live and learn the principles of integrity first, service before self, and excellence in everything.

The Academy grows awesome second lieutenants. Of course, not everyone is perfect. Officers sometimes err. But why focus on the negative? When it comes to officership, the old cliche that one bad apple/officer really makes the other 99 look bad is true. But, the fact is that the other 99 are quality people who spend their careers doing the work of the Air Force-the greatest Air Force on earth. This is all boring news I guess-until America finishes second in battle.

To make all the training for cadets work, the boundaries at the Academy are defined by the moral compass they call the honor code. The words are: we will not lie, steal, or cheat, nor tolerate among us anyone who does. Those words are too simple. The box isn’t black and white. This code along with the system behind it has worked for over 40 years and it provides the foundation upon which each cadet builds a personal concept of professional ethics and a minimum standard of integrity that he/she takes with them into the Air Force. How the cadets interpret the spirit of the code over their four years is converted into integrity first, service before self, and excellence in all they do.

The spirit of the code requires cadets to go beyond the four concrete “nots,” in order to do the right thing despite pressures to the contrary. The spirit of these words demands strength, courage and dedication to a cause greater than self. The code demands complete integrity in word and deed. Cadets are expected to report themselves for any code violation. Furthermore, they must consult with any other cadet they believe may have violated the code and encourage that cadet to turn themselves in or report the incident if the situation is not resolved. This standard is rough-rough because it forces us all to take the high road-the road that is unfun. It is rough because ethical choices demand sacrificing loyalty to a friend for loyalty to a mission. I remember in sixth grade, my sister told my basketball coach I was “being mean’’ to her. He told me being mean was unacceptable behavior and that I must apologize. I, of course, told him I wasn’t being mean and accused my sister of lying. Coach made my sister, my friend (also on the basketball team) and myself get together to solve our problem. My friend was on the spot. He had to either lie for me or tell coach I wasn’t being mean or tell the truth. He told the truth. Coach said he didn’t want me on the team because he couldn’t trust me anymore and he kicked me off the team for two games. All for being mean to my sister! How bogus is that?

In the Air Force these little situations crop up all the time...but many times they mean the difference between life and death. The Academy is where new officers learn the values required to consistently make those tough ethical choices.

This system works because we make it work. All of you in the trenches: all you have internalized is worth it. Continue to walk the walk and talk the talk here everyday. It is tough but you have to do it. Without you, the system won’t work. Without you, the Air Force won’t work. The Air Force demands a loyalty to the mission...the team...a higher cause. As officers, we must choose loyalty to the Air Force every time, even if it means hurting others or hurting ourselves. That’s the system. That’s the value system we’ve adopted and live by.

Be encouraged, all ofyou living in the glass house. Be proud society looks in all the time. Be proud they are amazed that we actually take seriously what we believe. You generally don’t get criticized in the press unless you are doing it better—or different. Integrity first, service before self, excellence in all we do. That’s tougher...better...different. S

Cadets GUARD Doolittle Raider HISTORY

Photography by Tech. Sgt. Jim Varhegyi, AFNEWS

Sixty years after one of the most celebrated American military missions in history, the brave men who risked their lives to ensure its success toasted one another and those who once fought beside them.

Eighty silver goblets were transported from their display case at the U.S. Air Force Academy to the 60th Doolittle Raiders’ reunion that took place on April 17, 2002 in Columbia, S.C.

Each silver goblet bears the name of one of the 80 Doolittle Raiders famous for the April 18, 1942, mission to bomb Tokyo as symbolic revenge on Japan for the attack on Pearl Harbor, Hawaii. The mission was led by then—Lt. Col. James Doolittle.

The goblets are kept at the Academy and escorted to each reunion by the top two academically ranked junior cadets.

The Raiders tradition is that when they gather for a reunion, they toast and then turn over the goblet of those who have passed away since their last meeting. Two goblets where turned over at this year’s reunion and now 23 goblets remain upright.

Retired Air Force Maj. Gen. Davey Jones (right) leads a group of Doolittle Raiders in toasting their fallen comrades during the ceremony at their 60th reunion in Columbia, S.C. in April. The silver goblets used for the ceremony are kept at the U.S. Air Force Academy and escorted to each reunion by the top two academically ranked junior cadets.

At the Academy, a bottle of 1896 cognac-symbolizing the year Doolittle was born-is displayed in the case with the goblets. Doolittle’s wish is that the remaining two Raiders will use that bottle to drink a final toast to their comrades.

Cadets 2nd Class John Rose of CS-21 and Don Seablom of CS-13 earned academic honors in History 371-Airpower and Modern Warfare-and escorted the goblets to the reunion. This year the entourage included two additional cadets.

Cadet 3rd Class Chris York is the grandson of the late Capt. Edward “Ski” York, the pilot of the eighth B-25 Mitchell to take off from the deck of the USS Hornet for the mission. Also escorting the goblets was Cadet Candidate Nathan Chal from the Academy Preparatory School. Chal is a grandson of retired Lt. Col. Richard Cole who was Doolittle’s co-pilot on the first B-25.

York said his grandfather’s story has inspired him to follow in his footsteps and he hopes to one day be an Air Force pilot. His father, Joe York, is a 1970 graduate and deceased.

Chal said he feels privileged to have been able to spend a great deal of time with his grandfather prior to entering the Prep school. “My grandfather’s life has motivated me to pursue my dreams and to be courageous no matter what the circumstance,” Chal said.

Following the reunion celebration, the silver goblets were returned to the Academy’s Doolittle Raiders display, in Arnold Hall. S

A bottle and overturned goblet symbolizes another fallen member of the Doolittle Raiders during the reunion. Fourteen of the 23 surviving Raiders attended the 60th reunion.

Kathy Jones and her sons, Skip and Andy, of Omaha, Neb., look for the goblet belonging to the boys’ grandfather, the late Richard Joyce, following the goblet ceremony at the Doolittle Raiders 60th reunion. Joyce, pilot of crew 10, was one of the fallen raiders honored by 14 of the remaining 23 Raiders attending the reunion.

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Linares, Brown, Harding earn gold medals.

^ ^ boxing dynasty condnues!

^ O The Falcons won three gold

.JL. iL M JL 1 JL. Vi^Vnu / ^3 medals at the National Collegiate Boxing Association (NCBA) Championships to win their fourth consecutive national title.

Air Force scored 44 points to beat host Navy with 34 points. UNLV finished third in the team standings with 31 points. Other schools competing in the tournament included Army, Nevada, Lock Haven, Michigan, San Jose State, VMI, The Citadel, Kentucky, California and Miami of Ohio. The team victory marks the 16th national title in the past 22 years. Ulysses Linares, Joe Harding and Dustin Brown won their bouts to earn gold medals. For Linares it was his second consecutive national title and for Brown it was third national title. “Ulysses got us started with the first win of the night,” said head coach Eddie Weicher, Jr. “He was his typical nasty selfand just beat Penn State’s Nathan Labuda to the punch. Harding’s victory came over Army’s Boyd Melson who was the defending national champion in the 165-pound weight division. “Harding just had a superlative showing throughout this tournament,” Weichers said. “He was at his best the entire time and was leading us in everyway, shape and form.” Dustin Brown dominated his opponent to win an easy decision.”

The Falcons qualified six boxers for the finals. Darren Smith lost his 119-pound bout to UNLV’s Lyndon Manlapao. In the 156-pound division, Penn State’s Alex Komled defeated Tommie Cisar, and in the heavyweight bracket, Justin Pendry lost a decision to UNLV’s Louis O’Hiaeri.

“I thought Darren Smith could have won his bout and also Tommie fought well enough to win his bout. Both those bouts were close decisions.”

“O’Hiaeri just out-jabbed Pendry to win the decision. Pendry has a great work ethic and a lot of guts, but he just lost to a boxer who had much more experience,” said Weichers, “I’m very proud and feel privileged to coach this team. They have a great personality and showed great determination throughout the tournament.” S

cringes from the final record for Air Force in men’s basketball: 9-19 overall and 3-11 in the Mountain West Conference. Yuck, it’s almost ditto for the 2000-01 season that went 8-21 and 3-11.

Those statistics need magnification.

Air Force grew into a snarling team with a season on the brink of winning more often. It just didn’t know how to win despite setting up the opportunity so often. Air Force scrapped three times with league regular-season champion Wyoming and lost all three games. But check those scores. It was an 83-76 four-overtime defeat, a 51-48 disappointment at Clune Arena and a 69-67 overtime gut-churner in the Mountain West Tournament first round.

Taking that next step up from conference pest will be the duty of a 2002-03 team returning all its main players except team captain and senior guard Lamoni Yazzie, the superb free-throw shooter.

“I’ve played for (second-year) coach Joe Scott for two years. The mind-set this year has been totally changed,” Yazzie said after the tournament setback. “I know we can play with any team in this league and we showed it.”

Including the tournament loss, Air Force took 11 of its 15 Mountain West opponents into the final two minutes with the margin no more than three points. However, Air Force never won more than two consecutive games and finished with a seven-game losing streak. Air Force must become more savvy to develop into a winner, something that hasn’t happened since 1977-78 (15-10 record). Air Force was 6-12 in games decided by eight points or less this season. The mark was 1-4 in overtime games, including the loss at Wyoming that took an academy-record four overtimes.

The team shooting percentage of46.3 was offset by allowing opponents to shoot 47.3 percent. Air Force was a minus 8.1 on rebounds per game.

Yazzie finished this season with a team-high 12.4-point scoring average and an academy-record career 87 percentage on free throws. Sophomore A.J. Kuhle and freshman Tim Keller might take over his game-saving role at the foul line.

SCORECARD

on the BRINK of success

By Tim Mimick Gazette Telegraph

FALCONS ready for winning season

Joel Gerlach, a sophomore starting forward, wore down during the Mountain West season. He averaged 11.4 points and 3.4 rebounds. Foul trouble kept him from making a bigger impact. The lane work also took a toll on junior starting center Tom Bellairs, who fell off in most categories in league games and ended with averages of 10.3 points and a team-best 5.1 rebounds. Junior pointguard VernardJenkins beganhitting 3-point shots to go along with his ferocious defense and direction.

“I’m putting the pressure on Gerlach and Keller to really get better,” Scott said. “They’re the guys we need more out of if we’re going to get better. Tom Bellairs and Vernard Jenkins will give us leadership. A.J. Kuhle stands for what this program is. He will be the (model) player we will recruit.

“Now we need other players to fill in spots. Who will be our center behind Bellairs? Who will be the forwards? The guards? If we get all that then we should be making more improvement from our second year to our third year in this program than we did from our first to our second. I’m excited.” S

SCORECARD a CINDERELLA

Air Force Wrestling Team records best season in history season

By Kendahl Johnson Sports Information fii€#

As the Air Force wrestling

team concluded the 2001-02 campaign, many wished the dream season wouldn’t end. The Falcons compiled an 11-3 dual meet record and won several tournaments. The team earned its first national ranking in several years, climbing into the national polls at No. 20. Four wrestlers qualified for the NCAA Championships, the most since 199798, and three of those four earned All-American status.

“It was a Cinderella season for us,” head coach Wayne Baughman said. “It was by far the most successful season we have ever had.” Following a loss to nationally ranked Illinois, the Falcons wouldn’t lose another dual meet all season. They rattled off seven consecutive victories, including a win over nationally ranked Northern Iowa. “It was the biggest win for our program in many years. Beating a top-20 Division I team is as good as it gets,” said Baughman, whose leadership this year earned him Colorado Coach of the Year honors.

To add to their outstanding 11-3 dual record, the Falcons won several tournaments, including the Colorado Collegiates and its fourth consecutive All-Academy Championship. Air Force had four individual champions at the event, including Scott Frohardt (149 lbs.), who won his fourth All-Academy title

At the West Regional, four Air Force wrestlers advanced to the NCAA Championships. Frohardt and Terry Parham (174) each won their weight classes at the regional championships to earn automatic bids. Heath McKim (125) and Kevin Hoy (Hwt.) were runners up in their weight classes, but earned a wild card bid to the NCAA tournament.

Frohardt defeated Northern Iowa’s Jon Garvin, 8-0, to win the West Region championship and qualify for his fourth consecutive trip to the NCAA Championships. Frohardt then went on to cap his outstanding career by becoming an All-American after going 5-3 in the national tournament to capture eighth place. D>

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“Frohardt has done a great job for us throughout his career and is one of the winningest wrestlers in Academy history,” Baughman said. Frohardt, ranked 13th in the nation, finished the season with a 47-7 (87 percent) win-loss record and led the team in takedowns, major decisions and pins. In his four-year Air Force career, Frohardt has an impressive 133-36 overall record, setting an Academy record for most career wins. He was named the College Wrestler of the Year for Colorado.

Parham, ranked 18th in the nation, earned his first bid to the NCAAs by defeating Northern Iowa’s Eric Hauan (5-4) in the championship round ofWest Regionals. He won his first match at the NCAAs, but lost his second match to the top-seeded wrestler in his weight class—Otto Olson of Michigan. Parham proceeded to win four of his next five matches in the consolation bracket, becoming an All-American by finishing the event in seventh place.

Hoy also had an outstanding season as the Falcons’ heavyweight wrestler. He took second place at the West Region tournament, earning an at-large bid to the national championships. Hoy was seeded eighth in the tournament but was upset in the first round. He battled back in the consolations, winning four straight. He lost his final match to Harvard’s David Rechul, 6-5 to finish in eighth place and earn All-American honors. Hoy was the Falcons’ highest ranked wrestler at No. 9. He was undefeated in 13 dual meets and finished the year with a 46-9 overall record. He won several tournaments throughout the season, including the Las Vegas Invitational and the All-Academy Championships.

It was the first time since 1975 that the Air Force wrestling team had an All-American and only the second time in team history that three wrestlers earned All-American status the same year. “It was a great way to end the season and we are extremely pleased with our performance at the NCAA Championship,” Baughman said. “Our wrestlers defeated some of the best wrestlers in the country. It has been 27 years since we’ve had an All-American, but I think that jinx is broken. We got that monkey off our backs.”

The Falcons will work hard in the off-season in an effort to duplicate the success of the 2001-02 season. Several solid returnees, including Hoy and McKim, will anchor the team, while younger recruits and junior varsity players will give the team depth. Regardless, this year’s dream season will go down in the record books as one of the best ever in Air Force wrestling history. H

Victory

By Dave Kellogg Sports Information

At first glance,i

Young Falcons look to future victories on the track one would think that the (Falcons didn’t have a suecessful indoor track season. However, nothing could be further from the truth. Sure, the men finished third and the women eighth in the season finale—the Mountain West Conference Indoor Championships. Enroute to the championship the men’s dual meet record was 2-3 while the women posted 0-5.

But head coach Ralph Lindeman says it best when he looks at the overall team picture. “I was pleased in general with the men’s season,” said Lindeman. “Our record came against some very tough competition. We were a very young team, with 19 of our 28 athletes competing in the MWC Championships being freshmen or sophomores. The same is true for our women’s team. In the championship meet 14 of the 20 women were either freshmen or sophomores.” D>

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During the championship meet, C1C Brian Carpenter and C3C Ben Payne won event titles. Carpenter won the mile (4:17.79) in dominating fashion by leading the race from virtually wire-to-wire, including the final margin of 20+ meters. His performance came less than 24 hours after an incredible mile leg on the winning distance medley relay.

“There is no question that Brian was our standout at the indoor championships, with wins in both the mile and distance medley relay (anchor). He was undefeated in the mile during the indoor season, with wins at Penn State, Nebraska and the MWC,” said Lindeman.

Payne’s title came in the 5,000-meter run with a time of 14:59.68. He also placed second in the 3,000meters (8:42.98). “Ben’s performance in the 5,000-meters was just outstanding,” said Lindeman. “His time was the fastest time in the cadet field house since 1996 when Eric Mack ran here. And Mack is now in Air Force’s World Class program, so that tells you something about Ben’s time.” B

Mountain West

C2C Sarah Law, in her last season ofeligibility, was named diver of the year for the Mountain West Conference (MWC). Law, ofParker, Colo, was among five Academy swimmers named to the all-MWC swimming and diving first team. Joining her were Jessica Williams, Paul Brehm, John Dayton, and Eric Pounds. Coach Stan Curnow was honored as the diving coach ofthe year.

Law was dominant for the women’s team. She won her second consecutive MWC championship in the threemeter diving with a score of 270.25. She also won the tide in the one-meter with 489.95. She just missed a trio of championships, placing second in the platform with 361.90 to teammate Jessica Williams. The freshman made the most ofher first appearance in the championships, winning with a 367.10 and earning all-conference honors.

The Air Force mens and women’s swimming and diving teams each had successful seasons in 2001-02. The Air Force men’s team finished third and the women’s team fifth at the 2002 Mountain West Conference Swimming and Diving Championships.

Juniors John Dayton, Nate Amidon and sophomores Eric Pounds and Paul Brehm led the Air

By Troy Garnhart Sports Information

Force men’s strong showing. Brehm took home a pair of conference individual championships. He won the 100- and 200-yard backstrokes with NCAA provisional qualifying times of48.93 and 1:47.01, respectively. Dayton was a runner up in the 100 yard breaststroke with a time of 55.87 that is an NCAA provisional qualifying mark. He also took fourth in the 100-yard freestyle (45.17). Pounds finished third in the 200-yard individual medley (1:50.95) and the 100yard butterfly (49.35). He was also fourth in the 200-yard butterfly with a time of 1:48.83.

Brehm, Dayton and Pounds teamed with senior Nam Nguyen to place second in the 200-yard medleyrelaywith a time of 1:30.18. They also teamed with Amidon to win the 400-yard medley relay with a time of 3:18.45. In Air Force’s other relay team, the 800-yard freestyle, Amidon swam with Rory Peterson, Stewart Parker and Kevin Heath to a third place finish with a time of6:42.87.

Matt Horner closed out his career with a fourth place finish in the 400-yard individual medley and a sixth place showing in the 20-yard backstroke. Rookie Brady Lindberg was solid in his first MWC championship, placing fourth in the platform (367.10), fifth in the three-meter (238.50) and sixth in the one-meter (400.80). B

SCORECARD 0 and

Air Force Hockey wrapup

The 2001-02

hockey season was one of extremes. There was no middle ground. Under fifth-year head coach Frank Serratore, the Falcons’ thermometer was either very hot or very cold. There were no mild spring days. It was either the Arizona desert in July or the frozen Alaskan tundra in December.

But it was the final change in temperature in February that defined the season. After a fivegame losing streak in January in which the Falcons scored just five goals, Air Force went on a tear. The Falcons posted an eight-game unbeaten streak, the second longest in the nation, and upset Niagara in the first round of the College Hockey America Tournament in March.

Air Force finished the season with a 16-16-2 overall record, marking the second time in three years the Falcons have finished at or above the .500 mark. Air Force finished the regular season on a seven-game unbeaten streak and placed fifth in the CHA with a 6-10-2 conference record. As the fifth seed in the tournament, the Falcons defeated fourth-seeded Niagara, 5-3, in the first round of the CHA Tournament on the Purple Eagles’ home ice. The season ended with a 3-1 loss to the regular season and tournament champions, the Wayne State Warriors.

Air Force won two tournament championships in the same season for the first time in school history. The Falcons won their own Radisson Inn Hockey Classic by defeating Manhattanville and New England College. The following week, Dec. 7-8, Air Force swept Army by scores of4-2 and 5-4. Air Force improved to 9-1-1 against Army over the last five years. Serratore has never lost at Army in six games.

“Our team became a family this season,” Serratore said. “It kills me the way we lost. They worked so hard and played so well. It was an amazing run at the end ofthe season and it was a privilege to coach them. This was one of the most enjoyable experiences in my 20 years ofcoaching.”

The Falcons bid farewell to the senior class, the largest in five years and the first class recruited by Serratore and his staff. Seniors Jace Anders, Brian Gornick, Derek Olson, Brian Rodgers, Ryan Smith and Jeff Zurick combined to play in more than 750 games and score 420 points. The group produced 66 wins, the most by a class in 24 years.

Three Falcons were honored by the CHA. Gornick was named the CHA Student-Athlete of the Year, the second consecutive year a Falcon has won the award. Gornick carried a 3.92 cumulative grade point average and was the No. 1 cadet in the major of operations research with a perfect 4.0 major GPA. He scored six goals and 11 points in an injury-shortened season of 19 games and finished his career with more than 100 points. Olson, who led the conference in goals and points, was named to the all-CHA first team. Freshman goalie Zach Sikich, who posted a 2-2-1 record in conference games and had a 3.26 goals-against average in all games, was named to the all-rookie team.

With several key players returning and a strong finish still fresh in their minds, the Falcons could be a team to be reckoned with in the CHA next season. S

Senior Forward Brian Rodgers

Air Force Academy rugby scrum halfCadet Third Class Ala a Abu-Soud (standing center with the ball) waits for the Air Force andArmy scrum to come together before pitching the ball into play during the 19th Alamo City Fiesta Rugby Battle on April 27. The Air Force Academy cadet rugby team beat the Army 43-14.

IR FORCE RUGBY

by Bob Jensen Air Force Print News

^ I ^ "I Air Force Academy cadet rugby JL JL JL team scored enough points in games against the teams from Annapolis and West Point to win the USAA Commandant’s Trophy and retain its title as champion at the 2002 Alamo City Fiesta Rugby Battle in San Antonio, Texas.

The Air Force team lost its initial game against the Naval Academy team 10-12 in the morning but beat the West Point team, 43 to 14, in the afternoon to earn enough points to win the competition by the point spread. Army had earlier beaten Navy, 21-13.

Besides winning the Commandant’s Trophy for the fourth time in six years, the academy also fielded a team in the concurrent Sevens Tournament, placing third in a field of 12 local and regional teams. Sevens is a version of rugby with only seven players per side rather than the usual 15 players. It also has shorter halves than regular rugby games.

“I thought today was a good day overall,” said Troy Flarting, Air Force rugby coach. “We always look forward to playing the other academies

because this is the only forum in which we get to do that. It’s very seldom that we meet each other in national tournament play. This is the one time of the year that we get everyone together and play great rugby against our brothers in arms.”

“It never fails to impress me how tough all three academies play, especially against each other,” he said. “We can come off a bad weekend against clubs in Colorado but we know we’ll put our best foot forward here and we can expect that from the other academies too and that really makes it worthwhile.”

“I feel today’s tournament was really good and I’m happy we won the trophy again,” said Kevin Graham, team captain. “We played hard. We lost our first game but the team came back and showed what we had in the second game. We knew we had to put up some points to get the trophy and we did what we had to do.”

Outstanding Air Force players in the tournament were Eric Capped, who scored two tries (touchdowns) against the Army; Lance Kallman and Butch Brennan, who both made one try against the Navy and one against the Army; and Andre Toman, who kicked a field goal and converted six of seven tries against the Army, helping to achieve the big point spread needed to win the competition. S

STAKE

THEIR CLAIM

By Madeline McGuire USAFA Sports Information

elsey named All-American

ACADEMY FENCER BECOMES U.S. FENCING NATIONAL CHAMPION

C2C

Weston Kelseybecame the first-ever Academy fencer to go undefeated at the 2002 Division I National North American Cup in early May at Louisville, Kentucky. Teammate C2C Elia Burrill placed 29th in womens epee.

Kelsey, a junior from Brush Prairie, Washington, finished first in the US National Championship, defeating the country’s top fencers. In the U.S. Fencing Association, his ranking moved up to sixth place in the country. He has been the Academy’s

highest nationally ranked fencer for the past three years. He earned All-American status in March at the NCAA Championships, finishing third in the men’s epee competition to earn a bronze medal.

“I am very proud of their performance at the US Nationals,” head coach Abdel Salem said. “Kelsey fought hard, was focused, made very few mistakes, and made a lot ofgood actions. Burrill also did well, finishing 29th in women’s epee.” Both will compete in three World Cup Competitions this summer. IB

Richard M. Hilbert, ’59

be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing ofyour mind, thatye mayprove what is thatgood, and acceptable andperfect, will ofGod.’’ Romans 12:2.

This passage from Romans best characterizes the way in which Dick Hilbert conducted his life. He loved God, his family, his church and his country. After graduation from the Academy, Dick was afforded opportunities to excel as a pilot in the Air Force and to grow professionally in an engineering career with General Electric and General Dynamics. The training he gained from the Academy and its motto, “Excellence In All We Do,” never left him. This same excellence was applied in his spiritual life as well. Dick’s love of the Bible and the spiritual healing truths it taught him and his desire to bring this healing truth and comfort to others brought him the greatest joy.

Dick lived an honorable, dignified, quiet, private life devoted to serving God and his church. He was a loving husband and father of three children, Claire, Jennifer and Matthew (and grandfather to new grandson Jaden). Dick left this state of consciousness in the same quiet, unassuming manner in which he conducted all his affairs.

(In loving memory of my dear husband, Liisa Small Hilbert.)

“Where Godis we can meet, and where Godis we can neverpart. Mary Baker Eddy, Miscellany 131:20

Darrell K. Koerner, ’61

On the morning of March 27, 2002, we lost a great friend and classmate, Darrell Koerner, to pneumonia, following hospitalization for an apparent stroke. He is survived by his wife, Mary Francis; their son Kenneth Scott, Kenneth Scott’s wife, Lydia, and their daughter Arlene; their daughter Kristin and her husband, Christopher Lynch; his mother, Opal; his brothers Dallas, Gary, and Doug; and his sister Deanna.

Darrell came to the Academy from Wakefield, KS. John Payne was the first in our class to meet him when theyexchanged introductions in 1957 while riding a Denver bus to Lowry AFB to become members of the Cadet Wing. John remembers Darrell then as tall, lanky, and friendly—hallmarks that never changed.

His distinguished career included many operational flying and staff tours, as well as studying in Switzerland as an Olmsted Scholar and attending the Armed Forces Staff College and the National War College (NWC). He flew the A-37 in Vietnam. Following NWC, he was just settling in as the Deputy Commander for Operations of the 317th Tactical Airlift Wing when life-threatening kidney problems terminated his flying assignments. Darrell’s brother Gary donated a kidney for the needed transplant. Darrell was retired medically in 1982.

Darrell would have undoubtedly advanced much further in his military career had medical problems not intervened. Not one to com-

but not forgotten

plain or wallow in self-pity, he soon chose another career, this time with the railroads. During the next 15 years, he rose to a prominent position in the industry as Mechanical Superintendentwith CSXTransportation while industry consolidation caused many others to be released. After he retired from CSX in 1997, the industry hired Darrell as a consultant. In semi-retirement, he chose to give something back to the Air Force by volunteering two days a week at Bolling AFB in the Air Force History Support Office and the Retiree Activities Office.

Having graduated in the top five percent of our class, Darrell later became fluent in French (to study in Switzerland), and earned an MA in Political Science from the Graduate Institute of International Studies, University of Geneva, and an MBA from Marymount University.

We enjoyed many hours together the past 20 years, often using golf as an excuse. Our prowess on the course never improved. Still, we had a great time razzing each other, while at the same time cheering the occasional good shot and groaning after either of us hit a bad one. Our talks after the round sometimes lasted a couple of hours. It was always fun. And that was how Darrell lived his life: enjoying those around him, applauding the good moments, and being there for those who needed him when the moments weren’t so good.

He easily made friends wherever he went, and enjoyed classmate gatherings and family reunions, but his family was his pride and joy, in a modest and non-boastful way. He reveled in their lives and heartily approved of the partners his children married. With a little encouragement, he had a great time telling about his granddaughter, Arlene.

Darrell also liked traveling with Mary Francis. They had just returned from a trip to Singapore, Australia, and New Zealand before his hospitalization. His last email, just after their return, told how much they had enjoyed their trip.

Many classmates and friends attended burial services at Arlington National Cemetery on April 18th Memorial donations may be made to the National Kidney Foundation.

Darrell’s professional, ethical, sincere, and caring approach to everything he undertook serves as an excellent example for everyone: his living legacy to us all. He will be greatly missed but not forgotten. (Nelson O 'Rear, Class ofl961)

Jackson L. Hudson, ’64

Jackson Lynn Hudson of St. George Island, Fla. Died on March 15, 2002 in Tallahassee, Fla. of complications following a massive heart attack. Mr. Hudson was born in Atlanta, Ga. in 1942, grew up in Hapeville, and later lived in Fayetteville, Ga.

Hudson attended Hapeville’s College Street School and graduated from HapevilleHigh School where he was captain of the football team and served as senior class president, graduating in 1960. He was a memher of First Baptist Church Hapeville where he enjoyed Sunday Bible study and baseball with the Royal Ambassadors.

Graduating from the U.S. Air Force Academy in 1964, Hudson was subsequently stationed at Eglin AFB where he flew F-104s. In 1969, Captain Hudson served in Southeast Asia with an A1E Skyraider air search and rescue unit. He was awarded the Air Force Cross, the nation’s second

highest award for valor, for combat action which resulted in the suecessful rescue of 54 U.S. troops. Before leaving the war zone, Captain

Jackson Hudson

Richard Hilbert

Darrell Koerner

Hudson was himself shot down, but escaped injury and was quickly retrieved by his fellow flyers. Captain Hudson also received the Air Force Commendation Medal, the Air Medal with oak leaf clusters, and the Distinguished Flying Cross with oak leaf clusters.

Captain Hudson met and married Jayne Etta Roy while in Florida, and after his discharge from the Air Force they had two children. He was later married to Susan Turner ofWest Point, Ga.

Hudson began flying for Delta Air Lines out of Atlanta in 1970 as first officer on the Boeing 727. Subsequently he served as training officer on several aircraft, and later as MD-11 fleet manager. Before Hudson’s death, he was flying the Boeing 767 to Europe, South America and Asia.

Jack loved hunting and fishing and spent many happy hours sitting on his boat in the Gulf of Mexico waiting for fish to bite. He kept his family well supplied with pheasants from Kansas and North Dakota, and Canadian geese and ducks from Saskatchewan. With a young, tender bird, Jack could produce an edible dinner. He was also an excellent pistol marksman. Once while hunting quail in south Georgia, Jack lay down a pump shotgun to shoot a six-foot rattlesnake with an Army .45 ACE

But flying was Jack’s passion. As a youth, Jack began experimenting with flight by gluing together plastic models, but quickly advanced to constructing radio-controlled, gasoline-powered model airplanes which he flew until their wings fell off. As a cadet, Jack restored an old Stearman biplane while on summer holidays at the Academy, and twice flew this reconstructed open-cockpit, fabric, wood, and wire contraption cross-country from Pikes Peak to Atlanta, sometimes navigating by highway signs and billboards. Along with the big modern jets, Jack was qualified to fly the veritable Douglas DC-3 and, after his impending retirement from Delta, planned to continue flying by working in mosquito control in north Florida.

Jack is survived by his daughter Bibbi (Virginia) Ransom; son P.J.; grandson Ryan; mother, Mrs. Miriam Hudson; younger brother Ed; and sister Jan. An informal memorial service was held on March 24, 2002 at First Baptist Church Hapeville with a reception following.

In lieu of flowers the family asks that donations may be made to the International Airport Chapel, Hartsfield International Airport, Atlanta, Ga. 30320; or Angel Flight medical transport service, 2000 Airport Road, Chamblee, Ga. 30341. (Jack’s brother, Ed Hudson)

John E. Vanden Dries,’75

A long time ago in September of 1974 a young woman sat patiently in Arnold Hall awaiting a young man who was supposed to escort her to a football game. According to her roommate Jane, at Colorado Women’s College, the young man played basketball and was a friend of Mark Simanitch. The young woman wasn’t especially tall either and expecting a basketball player she wore her high heels; which in the ’70s could be really high. After awhile a young man, who wasn’t espedally tall, came walking down the hallway. The young lady immediately noticed his bright blue eyes and was disappointed that this gentleman couldn’t possibly be her suitor because he didn’t look anything like a basketball player. Much to her surprise the young man walked right up to her and introduced himself as Jed Vanden Dries and asked if she was Cam McClelland. As this was indeed the gentleman she was waiting for they went off to the game, completely unaware that their lives had just changed forever.

That was how our parents met for the first time. By graduation in 1975 they were engaged. After UPT in 1976 they were married. By 1978 they had a son named Sean. By 1979 they had another son named Drew. On Feb. 1, 2002 their story came to an end. Cam and Jed are interned together at the Air Force Academy. A few rows to the west lies Mark Simonitsch, ’75. A few plots to the north lies Mark Whalen, '76. A few feet away lies Nick Jabara, ’01.

Drew and I would like to thank everyone in our Air Force Family who has come to our aid. Drew and I have been amazed at the level and amount of support that has poured in from all corners of the globe. Maj. Kevin “Fletch” Murray, USAF, came from Elmendorf to present the flag. Mrs. Laura Mills came from Lakenheath AFB to pay her respects. Lt. Col. John Thompson, USAF (Ret), came from Germany. Lt. Col. Robert Stewart, ’75, USAF (Ret), also came to say a few words.

It is extremely comforting to see so many people wanting to help. I would like to thank Lt. Gen. John Dallagher, ’69; and Brig. Gen. Taco Gilbert, ’78, for their help. I would like to thank my AOC Maj. Sean Herr, '87, and MTL TSgt. Gordon Fay for coordinating the lodging at USAFA for my family. I would like to thank C3C Steve McGregor, ’04, for playing taps. I would like to thank my classmates and Dirty Thirty (CS-30) for their support. I would like to thank the Alaska Parents Association. And lastly I would like to thank the AOG for being so flexible, cooperative, and helpful. (CICSean Vanden Dries, ’02)

Brian D. Rizzoli, ’96

On Feb. 2, 2002 Captain Brian D. Rizzoli died in a plane crash at Ellsworth Air Force Base, South Dakota. Brian was an evaluator pilot in the C-21A and the aircraft commander of the plane that day. Words are inadequate to express the extent to which he will be missed. Brian had a passion for life, and for flying, that was evident to everyone who met him.

Brian David Rizzoli was born April 6, 1974 to Albert and Maureen Rizzoli in Albuquerque, N.M. He graduated from Sandia High School in 1992 and was appointed to the United States Air Force Academy. He majored in Operations Research at the Academy where he was also an integral member of the gymnastics team. Brian was a 1994 Gymnastics All-American and national champion on floor exercise, and he was a WAC scholar athlete in 1993, 1994, and 1995. Upon graduation and commissioning in 1996, he stayed at the Academy working as an operations research analyst. In 1997 Brian left the Academy to attend Undergraduate PilotTraining atVance Air Force Base in Enid, Okla. He earned his pilot’s wings in 1998 and was assigned to fly the C-21A in the 47th Airlift Flight at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base, Dayton, Ohio. Brian and I were married on July 27, 1998. Our daughter, Sara Caitlin Rizzoli, was born on July 15, 2001.

The above biography only hints at what a special person Brian was. The memorial service at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and the memorial service and funeral at the Air Force Academy serve much better as tributes to Brian and his life’s achievements. I was deeply moved by the heartfelt remembrances of his friends and colleagues. In the week

For more current information about graduate deaths, please visit the AOG web site.

www.aog-usafa.org

before the memorial service, several of our friends came to our house to provide comfort and tell stories about Brian. I remember feeling amazed by how different each ofthe people in the room was. It served to demonstrate howBrian could befriend andworkwith all different types ofpeople. Brian was a natural born leader and a friend to all who knew him.

Everyone who knew Brian was aware of his long list of accomplishments. One evening Brian and I were having a discussion about life and I asked him what he considered to be his greatest accomplishment. He responded, without pause, “Sara.” That is why I have included a picture of Brian with Sara. I think that it would please him to be remembered for what was most important to him.

I grieve not only for my loss, but for Sara’s loss as well. I grieve because Sara will grow up not knowing her father. She will not remember the intense look of love and pride that he had every time he looked at her. I write this obituary as both a tribute to Brian and as a letter to Sara. I can only hope that when she is old enough to read this and to speak with Brian’s friends and our family that she will understand that her father was a loyal friend, an exemplary officer, an outstanding pilot, a beloved husband, and a caring father who loved her beyond words.

Brian was my best friend, my husband and the most exceptional person that I have ever met. He brought tremendous joy to my life and his untimely death brings unbearable sorrow. I have searched for answers to why such a tragedy would occur and have realized that those answers do not exist. What I have found is some solace through the knowledge that Brian had such an impact on so many lives. I am thankful that 1 had the opportunity to share my life with Brian and I know that I am a better person because of him. And I hope that while we mourn Brian’s death, we can take comfort that he died doing what he loved. (Jennifer M. Rizzoli [Hardman], USAFA, Class of1995)

LukeA. Johnson, ‘97

Luke Anthony Johnson was born March 26, 1975 in Powell, Wyo., to John and Sandra Johnson. He was married to the former Angela Gray of Kingsley, Mich. He grew up and went to high school in Tucson, Ariz., graduating in June 1993. Soon after graduation, Luke reported to the U.S. Air Lorce Academy in Colorado Springs, Colo.

Throughout the next four years as a cadet, Luke earned his bachelor’s degree in Civil Engineering. He also competed on the “Wings of Blue” Parachute Team, and had over 800 jumps. Luke was in Squadron 13 for his first two years and then went on to Squadron 23 for his last two years. While both were assigned to Cadet Squadron 23, Luke and Angie began dating. In May 1997, Luke and Angie were both commissioned as 2nd Lieutenants in the United States Air force.

Lieutenant Johnson served as a parachute instructor at the Academy while waiting to enter Undergraduate Pilot Training. Angie was assigned to Laughlin APB, Texas, while Luke was sent to Sheppard APB, Texas, where he entered EuroNATO Joint Jet Pilot Training. On July 4, 1998, Luke and Angie were joined in holy matrimony at Laughlin APB, Texas. Luke excelled as a

C3C Matthew A. Knight ’04, Dies in Automobile Accident

Matthew was born on Sept. 1, 1982 and died in an auto accident on Dec. 28, 2001. What can we say about someone that lived only 19 years, 3 months and 27 days? In Matthew’s case, a lot.

Matthew was born for the Air force. His first flight was at the age of 34 days. He was flying in light aircraft on a regular basis at the age of five and was piloting a Cessna from the right seat by the age of 14. He was flying from the left seat and soloing at 16 and received his private pilot rating just after his 17th birthday. He earned the money for his flight lessons by cooking at a Dairy Queen and his first official entry into his log book shows that he performed stalls and steep turns. In the summer of 2001, he logged 1.1 hours in aT-38. Matthew soloed in a USAFA glider in two-plus hours and was upgraded to the IP program prior to Christmas break. Matthew was born to fly. It was his dream, his passion.

Matthew’s first letter to the USAFA is dated May 23, 1997 and says, “Although I am only 14 years old, I have decided to make the Air Force my career.” The letter goes on to ask what would be required of him to attend “the Academy”. Matthew received a letter in return dated May 29, 1997 and in that letter was a list of attributes that would help him receive an appointment. He posted that list on his mirror on May 29, 1997 and removed it from the mirror in mid May 2000, the morning he left for the academy having checked off every item on the list. This list helped him achieve the following:

High School GPA: 6.632

County ranking (Class of 2000); 47th out of 7420 students

Perfect score on high school competency test

National Merit Scholar

Florida Academic Scholar

Eagle Scout with Bronze Palm

Cross Country varsity letter

National Honor Society

Spanish Honor Society

USAFA Summer Scientific Seminar 1999

United States Navel Academy Summer Seminar Program

American Boys State Program 1999

USAFA Deans list 3 out of 3 semesters

USAFA Combat Pistol Shooting Team - 2nd team

Matthew was a bright, goal-oriented young man who was wise beyond his years. He said of himself in a Feb. 10, 2001 letter, “I have a lot of passion to vent. I know I’m not the smartest built, but I have something they don’t enthusiasm, fresh ideas and desire.” Matthew was a giver. He gave his time and his talents to everyone, even to those who didn’t ask. A memorial service held in Matthew’s honor at his home church with over 600 in attendance. The outside doors were held open so that those standing outside could look through the doors. At his memorial service at the academy, seven of his fellow cadets spoke and said that Matthew was bright, had a good sense of humor, never complained and would give anyone anything he had. Even in death, Matthew was a giver. He was an organ donor and at least six others have benefited from this special man.

In his letter of Feb. 10, 2001, Matthew said that in his life he really only wanted two things, and those were to love as he was loved and to make a difference with the life that he was given. His desires now pass to us. We need to love others and make a difference with the life that we have been given.

I had a lot of roles in Matthew’s life and probably knew Matthew better than anyone else. I was first his teacher and mentor, then his best friend and finally his student. I had the best “job” that anyone has ever or will ever have. Matthew was and always will be my Sun, my Son! (Ron Knight, Matthew’s father)

CSC Matthew Knight

student pilot and, upon earning his wings, was selected to fly the F-16 Viper.

Luke entered F-16 training at Luke AFB, Ariz. in May 1999. He graduated eight months later and received an assignment to the 23rd Fighter Squadron, Spangdahlem AB, Germany. Luke and Angie arranged a joint assignment to Spangdahlem, where they were reunited in February 2000.

Luke went on to become a combat mission-ready Fightin’ Hawk in the 23rd FS, where he was affectionately known as “Stiff.” He was awarded the Air Medal for flying 14 combat sorties in the skies over Iraq in support of Operation Southern Watch. In May 2001, he and Angie were both promoted to the rank of Captain. Following a year in the scheduling shop, Luke was selected to become a squadron Electronic Combat Pilot (ECP) in the Weapons and Tactics office. His potential was recognized by the squadron leadership, and he was quickly selected to upgrade to a four-ship flight lead.

Captain Johnson made many contributions to the squadron, most notably as an ECP and as a flight lead. Luke blessed each of us with his drive to succeed, dedication to excellence, quick wit, cheerful attitude, and most of all, his loyal friendship. Luke was a loving husband, son, brother and friend. His wife, Angie; mother, Sandra; brother Max and his grandparents survive him. Luke will be greatly missed, but the coffee pot will always be on. (23rd Fighter Squadron and Capt. Angela L. Johnson)

Nicholas J. Jabara, VI

“Two roads diverged in a wood, and II took the one less traveled by. Robert Frost Nicholas’ road was a short one as he died in a T-37 crash at Laughlin Air Force Base on Jan. 31, 2002 and was laid to rest at the United States Air Force Academy on Feb. 8, 2002, his 23rd birthday. But what a wonderful short life he lived.

Nicholas James Jabara was born in Fort Collins, Colo. He entered the world smiling and was welcomed home by his big sister Katie. His little brother Ben joined the family 19 months later in Atlanta, Ga.

Nick attendedJapanesekindergarten, or yochien, for two years while his father was stationed outside Tokyo. Despite the barriers of language and culture, Nick made many friends; a trend that continued throughout his life.

After graduating from Gonzaga Preparatory School in Spokane, Wash., Nick went on to join the Air Force as a cadet at the Air Force Academy where he graduated in May of2001. Nick was frequently on the Superintendent’s List and graduated with honors from the Management Department. His family has always been proud of his hard work and determination.

Nick loved doing things with his family and friends, especially skiing, fishing, and traveling. Going to Europe after graduation was a highlight in his life. Nick’s dream was to follow in the steps of his grandfather and flyjets. Nick loved to “play in the clouds” and shared this love with those around him.

Col. William Hogan, the Commander ofthe 84th FlyingTraining Squadron at Laughlin wrote: “Nicholas was a role model and inspiration to both instructors and students alike. His infectious personality and love for life drew people to him and marked him as a natural leader. He loved flying and he loved being in the Air Force. He helped others achieve more than they thought possible, thus leaving a lasting legacy. While many of us only just met Nicholas, none of us will ever forget him. We’re all better people for having known him.

“History has shown us repeatedly that our freedom requires sacri-

flee, sometimes from our best and brightest. Nicholas was a student of history and perhaps understood this better than most. He bravely stepped forward when his country called and serves as a constant reminder of what it means to be a professional military officer. We will greatly miss his shining example.”

General Mark Welsh, commandant at the Academy with Nick wrote to rally the cadets: “Wish I had something clever to say... but there aren’t any magic words when a fellow warrior dies, just a rush of gratitude that we knew ’em, and a sense of honor in the cause they cherished. Nick was a great guy... and now he’ll be a great wingman for you, and others who loved him. When things are at their toughest, ask him for help, then relax and trust him; he’ll get you through that’s what friends do... and friendship never dies. Never forget him, or what he stood for... make him proud.”

General Welsh ended by sharing a verse that he saw years ago and never forgot:

“He will not grow old, as we who are left grow old. Age shall not weary him, nor the years condemn. At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, We will remember.”

At press time we had learned ofthe deaths ofthe followinggraduates and cadets:

Lt. Col. (Ret) William C. Ayers, ’63, who died April 3, 2002 of an illness in Arlington, Va.

Maj. (Med Ret) Ralph P. Hammerton, ’63, who died on March 18, 2002 of diabetes in Tucson, Ariz.

Lt. Col. (Ret) Ronald L. Kramer, ’67, who died on April 7, 2002 of Huntingtons Disease in New Orleans, La.

Maj. (Ret) John R. Terry, ’67, who died on Jan. 24, 2002 of an illness in Columbia, Mo.

Mr. Kenneth W. Bailey, '85, who died on March 12, 2002 of cancer in Albany, Calif.

Our sincere condolences to the family and friends ofthese graduates.

OBITUARY POLICY EXPLAINED

We have had a number of inquiries on our policy concerning obituaries for deceased graduates and cadets. Some graduates have noted that while we have listed a graduate’s death in the “At Press Time” section of “Gone But Not Forgotten,” the graduate’s obituary never appeared 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).

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 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 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 memher 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.

Nicholas Jabara

Glass NEWS

1250 Big Valley Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80919-1015

H: (719) 531-5874 FAX: (719) 531-6697

E-mail: petetodd@aol.com

I have to admit that they had a pretty good cover story “building a dream home” in Wintergreen, VA (obviously a fictitious community) but Super Sleuth has uncovered Wayne and Bonnie JEFFERSON’S real ploy. They are actually alternating between taking cruises and freeloading on classmates all over the country! They probably sold all their furniture to finance this scheme, but who needs furniture?

The first clue was a note last fall from Jerry GARBER reporting on a great junket: “Joan and I just returned from a two-week tour ofAlaskawithWayne and Bonnie Jefferson. What a magnificent state! We spent the first week on land, traveling by bus and train between Anchorage and Fairbanks. The second week was spent on a cruise ship between Seward, AK, and Vancouver, B.C., with stops at Skagway, Juneau, and Ketchikan. At Skagway we took a bus/train trip into the Yukon Territory, and, on our stop at Juneau, we took a helicopter ride to one of the nearby glaciers.

“Needless to say, we gorged ourselves with seafood (especially salmon) during the entire two weeks. We were able to view Mt. McKinley, witness sled dog demonstrations, tour Native American villages, and observe an abundance of wildlife. Aboard the cruise ship, we were treated royally and were able to relax a bit despite a couple of days of nasty weather. All in all, it was a fantastic voyage.”

The Jeffersons were next sighted at the AF-Navy football game, once again “visiting” classmates in the D.C. area. Super Sleuth lost track ofthem after the game, but Bill TEFFORD, also in town for the game, visited a householdwhere the Jeffersons were NOTstaying: Steve and Patty HAMER hosted the Telfords, A1 and Jan WATERS, and Tom and Fois CFLASE on Friday and Saturday. Dick and Jean CARR joined them on Sunday morning for a superlativeVictory Brunch.

The elderlygentlemen groping one another in the back row are A1 Waters, Dick Carr; SteveHamer, Bill Telford and Tom Chase. Theyouthful and demure ladies in front areJan Waters, Jean Carr, PattyHamer, Anne Telford andLois Chase.

In mid-March, Bill Telford helped Super Sleuth connect another dot on the Jeffersons’ odyssey. He wrote, “Had a great visit from Wayne and Bonnie Jefferson. They came down for three days which we filled with all kinds offun activities. Wayne and I hit the links while the ladies shopped and had lunch. Then we visited the D-DayMemorial in Bedford, VA (about 35 minutes from our house).

“For those not up on their military history, a Virginia National Guard unit (29th Inf. Div.) was one of the first to hit the beach on D-Day and the soldiers from the Bedford, VA, unit suffered the highest per capita casualties of any unit that day. Consequently, Bedford was selected as the site of the memorial. Quite a remarkable sight.”

Bill Telford and the RoamingJeffersons in front ofthe entrypavilion of the National D-DayMemorial.

Bill reported that he and Anne are still keeping busy, mostly visiting kids and grandkids through the Easter holidays. They’ve cut back their volunteer activities considerably (Memo to self: find out how he accomplished that feat!), but still stay involved. Watch this space for further accounts as the Jeffersons continue to play Domestic Survivor.

Reaching even deeper into the intelligence files (God forbid that any‘59er would actually write to the Scribe about one of his own achievements!), a Sleuth source reported that Casey KAY was one of 10 recipients ofthe 2001 Governor’s Volunteer Award in Texas. Casey was recognized for his volunteer workwith FortWorth-based MercyMed+Flight, one ofonly a few charitable air ambulance services in the nation. Casey is director of operations and pilot for the six-year-old nonprofit companywhich has flownwell over 200 low-income people who needed medical attention to hospitals, to loved ones, or to their own homes. Well done, Casey!

Those ofyou who haven’t yet succumbed totally to dementia will note that we are barely two years away from our 45th Reunion. (There are still a few unredeemed pledges for the Class Gift ofthe 40th Reunion, but that’s another subject for another day.) As usual, the Colorado Springs-based Reunion Committee will do most of the heavy lifting on organizing and

Pete Todd

TheJeffersons and Garbers ridingtheglacier.

administering the 2004 event. However, based on our experience in 1999, I’d like to propose a major change in the way we decide on a Class Gift.

In the past, the Reunion Committee polled the Class (usually eliciting something less than a tidal wave of responses) with ideas and suggestions, presented one or two choices prior to or at the reunion and we voted. When the gifts were fairly modest, this process was fairly non-controversial. Now that we have graduated to six-figure commitments with a wider range of options and wider differences of viewpoint among the Class, we need a more orderly decision process.

We have two years to figure it out, but I’d propose something like a Class Gift Committee to research options, gather inputs and foster a dialogue within the Class, striving for a consensus before the Class business meeting. Something like this would probably have been impossible five years ago, but with close to 90% ofthe Class hooked into the Internet, it seems eminently doable now. Or maybe some ofyou can come up with a completely different approach to the same goal. I just know we need to avoid the donnybrook we had last time. What say you all?

Thought for the Quarter: Darwin Award Haiku:

Stupidity kills.

Absolute stupidity

Kills absolutely.

AJ. (Rosie) Cler, Jr.

11181 West 17th Ave. (208)

Lakewood, CO 80215-2759

H: (303) 238-4973 e-Fax: (509) 463-4700

E-mail: RCtherose@aol.com

Class Web Site: www.usafa.net/1960

ServiceAboveSelf. Helping Others. Philanthropic Endeavors. Altruism. Doing Good Deeds. Giving More of Ourselves. Pro Bono Publico.

“My wife and I deliver Meals on Wheels one day a week," writes Gary KARSHNICK. “I also drive a courtesy cart at Holmes Regional Hospital here in Melbourne, FL, transporting patients and visitors. Diane is a supervisor of volunteers at the Cardio-Vascular ICU working three days a week. And I volunteer my helicopter it’s a 1962 Brandy B2B that I rebuilt and refurbished to return rehabilitated wild birds and animals to their natural habitat for the Florida Wildlife Rescue Service, and have offered my services to all the local police departments.”

Special Advocate in El Paso County for children, handling custody disputes as well as abuse and neglect cases, and also volunteers at the D.A.’s Office as an advocate for victims of domestic violence. Dick and Sally both “volunteer at the Xeriscape Demonstration Garden in Colorado Springs the garden is designed to show people how they can use less water and still have a beautiful garden by using ‘water wise’ techniques and appropriate plant selection,” while Sally also volunteers at the Academy Thrift Shop two days a week.

Dave SWEIGART sings in the Church Choir and Horseshoe Bay Men’s Chorus, Lions Club, Property Owners Association, reads to preschoolers and helps with after-school programs at the Marble Falls, TX Library; he and wife, Camille, work as Senior Adult Sunday School Teachers and for Precepts Bible Study, while Camille volunteers at the Library, is vice president of the Burnet County Republican Women, and member of the Philanthropic Educational Organization (PEO) promoting young women’s education both here and abroad while operating a university in Missouri. (Note: Faith ADAMSON is also active with PEO, since Derry “stays busy with 7+2 grandchildren locally and working for Lockheed.”). Neighbors to Dave in Marble Falls, Sid NEWCOMB is with Buckner Community Services as counselor to single parents with troubled teens and translates for those who are Hispanic; Sid’s also an Academy Liaison Officer meeting with Academy and AFROTC hopefuls to help with their application process and administers the PhysicalAptitude Test. (Rememberthe kneeling basketball throw and the 300-yard shuttle run?)

Garyusinghis B2B Bird to deliver some birds.

Jim PEEL volunteers in the Civil Air Patrol as a Certified Flight Instructor, Check Pilot and Mission Pilot in Cessnas near Dover, DE and teaches cadets aerospace subjects, collects donations for the Salvation Army “I rang the bell five days a week during Christmas,” and wife, Joan (retired teacher and mother of five), volunteers at the local Pregnancy Help Center and serves meals to the poor at the Salvation Army kitchen. Syd GURLEY told me “Ann and I volunteer at the Jupiter (FL) Medical Center two half-days a week she works in the Wellness Center, and I as dispatcher and driver for the hospital’s free van service.”

Although he receives nominal payment for his work, Deke JOHNSON is Idaho State Adjutant and National Quartermaster for the VFW, and has added over 900 new members. Ken ALNWICK helps former AF Secretary McLucas write his autobiography, and coaches high school lacrosse. Howie WHITFIELD’s executive director of the Naval Helicopter Association.

Bill HALES wife, Joan, had an early onset of Alzheimer’s, and after her death in 1998 he became a director and board member of the chapter that serves nine counties in western New York. Now chairman of their Public Policy Committee, he’s reactivated their policy thrust which had lain dormant foryears, and is extremely active in the NewYork State Chapters Coalition which lobbies for improvement in quality-of-life issues for those with the disease, as well as those who are their caregivers. Averaging 20 unpaid hours a week, Bill’s traveled to D.C. for several national events, participated in numerous special lobbying and fund-raising activities, and his passion is “to provide support to those who are struck with this terrible disease, and to those who provide care.”

Dick SEXTON spends 40 unpaid hours a week as a Court Appointed

Lending Their Helping Hands:

Sid and Marvann, Camille and Dave.

Gary and Sylvia SHEETS sing in the Baptist Church Celebration Choir of 425 voices and participate in the Dallas Christmas Festival; Gary’s a Deacon and they teach a class of third graders in their Bible Fellowship; both also mentor at their neighborhood elementary school, Sylvia mentors two young single women, and they lead a Bible Prophecy Study Group. And in Arlington, TX, Denis and Liz HANEY perform lecture chores at their church two-three times a month.

Mentor Bob FISCHER: “I’ve been active in the Big Brother Program for over four years with John, 15, who is from a single parent and never had any contact with his father. He recently made the 9th grade Honor Roll! We have done a lot together (flying, fishing, sailing, football, baseball, spectators at some minor and major league baseball games, golf, home projects, lots of homework, and even changing a tire!). I was selected Big Brotherofthe Yearfor Bucks County andPennsylvania in 2001. It is ‘hands on’ all the way and really does make a huge difference in the kids’ lives.”

Ben FURUTA teaches “computer classes in a community center, mainly for older folks, and I am also serving on a board of directors for a retirement home for ministers, along with some other church work. My wife, Hideko, volunteers at an assisted living center.” Bob HEIGES “volunteers a lot of time helping non-profit organizations with computer problems and developing online sites, most recently a church in Gilroy, CA.”

Karl JONES says “I donate my time to tutoring six hours a week in College and Pre-Calculus Algebra at the local college Oskaloosa-Walton Community College (FL); I’m also active as a Lay Minister assisting the priest in communion services, funerals and baptisms at St. Simon’s Epis-

The Mooneywith John andhis BigBrother.

copal Church in Ft. Walton Beach, and with helping-the-needy type projects providing clothing at Christmas, supplies for battered or displaced persons, and flowers for the altar.” Dean VIKAN: president of Rotary, president of Community Club, president of Polk County Heritage Center, board member on First Care Hospital Foundation and TRIAD. Charley THOMPSON sings in a barbershop quartet as a nonprofit supporting charity and sings for nursing home residents.

“Brenda and I ‘give’ by taking cancer patients to treatments and arranging job interviews/composing resumes for high school graduates,” writes CT DOUGLASS III. “And, I serve on the Architectural Control Committee for our community.” Walt FUTCH is treasurer oftheir art association and operates a retail art gallery, on the Community Concert Association and their Patron Chairperson, Advisory Board for Library Foundation, and wife, Marti, is treasurer for Friends of the Library. Earl VAN INWEGEN is Flight Captain of the San Diego Daedalians, member of the La Jolla Community Council (attempting to block the building of a condo complex nearby), and works with an L.A. writer on a history of the Vietnam War. George LUCK conducts safety lectures, assists in aviation symposiums and gives corrective action sessions as a volunteer in Seattle’s FAA Flight Standards Office.

Volunteerism. Good people doing nice things for others. To be continued...

Earl N. “Nelson" 0’

50582 Stonington Granger, IN 46530

H: (574) 273-2597

E-mail: ENOandTJO@worldnet.att.net

Class Web Site: http://www.usafa61.org/

Greetings from Hoosier Land. Thanks to all who contributed. Everyone else, please let us know what is happening in your lives. We need your help to stay in touch.

For those not on the Internet, some sad news. Darrell KOERNER passed away on March 27th The write-up in the Gone But Not Forgotten section has details. His wife, Mary Francis, and family thank everyone for their prayers and support during this difficult time.

Erik (CJ) BECKJORD was one ofthe film electricians on two recent firstrun movies, as well as on episodes of the “Nash Bridges” series still to be aired. Erik does this partly for the money, but also to keep updated on filming techniques.

Mamie and Stu BOYD were privileged to work with the figure skaters for the Olympics. Mamie was the practice announcer for the men’s events, and Stu did rink-side music for the practice groups. Both had a great time.

While reading USA Today on March 12th I saw a full-page ad by the Heinz Family Foundation that began, “Tonight, six Americans whose vision, commitment and excellence hold the key to creating a better world will receive Heinz Awards.” The second person pictured was Lee BUTLER for Public Policy. It cited Lee as “One of the world’s most respected authorities on nuclear weapons, [who]...had the courage to rewrite the rules concerning the dangers ofnuclear arms proliferation and make the world a safer place.”

Doug and Dee CAIRNS’ son Rob, an Army Special Forces major and USMA graduate, returned from Afghanistan after three months there and two previous months in other Middle East and Central Asian countries. It appears that all of our families in the military will be busy for the foreseeable future.

The CAIRNSes, POOLEs, andWESTBROOKs joined Bob and Ann GRACE at a Savannah bistro for an evening of high-living and camaraderie on the way to Jimmy Poole’s daughter’s wedding at Jekyll Island.

Jim DARNAUER reports that he still works for the same Army contractor in San Jose, United Defense (formerly FMC) since 1981. He and his wife would welcome visitors. Dick DAVIS moved back to the Bay area. His new address is: 1560 Sand Hill Road, #302, Palo Alto, CA 94304, Phone 650-321-9345.

Paul DEAN said that some medical problems have at least temporarily affected his hearing different musical tones and his ability to sing. He’s undertaking therapy that will hopefully restore them by October when he will attend his pilot training class reunion in Phoenix. He’s still playing golf. Milt SUMMERFELT said that his back is improving, and he is now out of the brace. These things take time. Tom HILL and Liz are doing well. He’s back in “Tom Hill Heaven” CEO of a Not-for Profit (pro bono), returning to teaching at Indiana University, and volunteer coaching a high school baseball team.

Brown Forman, owner of Sonoma-Cutrer, asked Brice JONES to return as a consultant, at nearly four times his previous salary to straighten out many problems developed over the eight months since his contract buyout. Chief was a successful union organizing drive. Brice feels that the beautiful jewel that took 30 years to build is quickly going downhill. He

will continue as a consultant for a few more months to help correct their problems, but juicy irony or not it will be time to move on.

Bob KELLOCK continues with Boeing at Long Beach, now adding MultiMission Maritime Aircraft lingo to his vocabulary Navy talk, you know. He can even say littoral. Wait until you see a Boeing Business Jet with wing pylons and a bomb bay, plus mines, torpedoes, and guided missiles. He hardly has time for his brother’s wedding, the Blind Bat/Candlestick reunion (Batfest), and his 45th high school class reunion.

Jerry and Sue LEFTON spent a couple of months in Tucson visiting their son and taking excursions to Mazatlan and Las Vegas. Jerry also golfed with Jim WILHELM, plus they attended the Tucson Open and a Rockies/Giants spring training game while Sue and Nancy Wilhelm shopped. Jerry recommends the Pima Air Museum in Tucson, particularly since they display a C133B that he flew as a navigator while at Travis (’61-’65). He also noted that the Davis-Monthan bone yard has many C-141s, which he flew during his last flying assignment at Travis in the ’70s. Made him feel pretty old.

Hector and Joan NEGRONI moved back to their Virginia home (2003 Annnies Way, Vienna, VA 22182) to be closer to their children/grandchildren. While in Puerto Rico, Hector authored his most recent book (History ofYauco), to be published later this year. He had been researching the topic for about 20 years and wrote it “pro bono” as a service to his hometown at the request of the mayor. It deals with the history ofYauco, Puerto Rico, from 1508 to present and contains over 330 pages.

At the urging of a North Carolina State Representative, Al NUNN is the Republican candidate for North Carolina’s State Senate District 14. Although he would face a four-term Democrat incumbent, a State Supreme Court judge has ruled that the state legislature’s gerrymandering of districts to favor Democrat candidates must be remedied. Besides possibly affecting his opponent, it could also mean a competitor Republican if filing periods for primaries are re-opened. Either way, it won’t be a slamdunk. Good luck, Spike.

John PAYNE visited our Montgomery, AL, clan (CAIRNS, POOLE, and WESTBROOK) on March 2-3. Neal and Gwen were not available, but John enjoyed dining and visiting with Doug and Dee Cairns, and Jimmy and Susan Poole. John urges all classmates and associates especially those who could not get to our 40th to plan now to attend the mini-reunion 6th annual Graytag Redneck Riviera Beach weekend October 4-6 at Orange Beach, AL. October is a great time to be at the beach. Jimmy POOLE’s plans for the weekend are well underway. As of March 11,13 classmates had confirmed and 10 were pending, with about half of the class having responded. Contact Jimmy with your intentions if you have not yet responded (jpoolejr@aol.com or 334-272-1863).

Bill SANZENBACHER said that they are enjoying being near other Gray Tags on the East Coast. In February they got together with John and Joan KOHOUT for a day of theater in D.C. and a wonderful dinner hosted by John and Joan in their home. The day also included a grand tour of Georgetown and some favorite places. Bill looked forward to seeing more classmates at their March luncheon. They don’t miss Wisconsin’s winter snow and ice. Terry NORRIS has also gotten Bill into golf, which he is enjoying. Bill plans to volunteer with the National Park Service at the Fredericksburg and Chancellorsville Battlefield Parks. If anyone will be visiting the parks let him know for a personal guided tour.

Les SCHNEIDER reports that their youngest just turned 16 months old, while their oldest of six is about to graduate from high school. All are all doing well, including Debbie, who’s on a six-month leave from American (formerly TWA/Ozark). Les still works for the FAA.

Bill STACKHOUSE finally is out of the ground, with the garage footer and pad poured, and the walls going up on their new house. He happily found a couple of good carpenters. During construction, Bill is staying in a 12x16 cabin he built, which the neighbors call the “Palatial Shed.” Hopefully, by the time this appears in print, the house will be up.

Jeanne and Jim ULM moved to Boerne, TX (within a few miles of the ANDERSONs) the end ofMarch; however theywill keep their season football tickets and continue to live in Gunnison, CO, during the summer. One of their sons lives in San Antonio, and their other son in Houston. Their Colorado Springs daughter will see them in the summer, as well as during football weekends. Their new telephone number is 210-687-1281.

Jim and Nancy WILHELM traveled in their Big Blue Bus to Tucson, AZ, where they spent their 10th winter enjoying the sun, golf, and good Mexican food. This year they bought a park model (mobile home). To help them celebrate the move-in, Charlie and Lynda NEEL stopped in while

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on business in the area. Charlie also helped them identify the local birds that inhabit their back patio. Their ’61 get-together with Ron and Jeri FULLERTON and Jerry and Sue LF.FTON shattered the serenity of their quiet RV Park. Ron and Jeri are in the middle of a major renovation of their Tucson home. For all the tailgate attendees, don’t worry, the Big Blue Bus is going back to Colorado. They will see you there.

Twy and NancyWILLIAMS continue to enjoy the pace (or lack thereof) in the Northern Neck ofVirginia. They both are heavily involved in the work of their church, which limits their travel but brings great satisfaction. In March, Twy said that it would soon be time to launch TWYZARK and sail. Yeeee—Ha! (Do you think they enjoy sailing?)

Tom and Judy WILSON are still enjoying the good life, with two weeks in Sarasota for fun and sand, and the birth of their eighth grandchild.

Gayle ZOMPA wanted to let us know that there is another Zompa grandchild a girl born to daughter Kristin and husband, Craig. Gayle says she is a beauty, and she’s sure Ed is looking down on her with great pride.

As you have probably noted, medical problems are becoming more common with us and our families. We want to help however we can, but cannot if we do not know about them. Therefore, please let one of us know, and we will take it from there. If you are not on the Internet, it is difficult to remain in this loop. As of mid-March, our online Gray Tag Network (GTN) consisted of 149 classmates (grads and non-grads), widows, and a ’61 USMA grad who served a career in the Air Force. Contact me via my e-mail address above to become part of the GTN, to stay in touch, and to become part of our support network.

m3

John W. “Jack” Jamba

4 Judy Court

Satellite Beach, FL 32937

H: (321) 777-5520 0: (321) 861-6279

Cell: (321) 432-1370

E-Mail: jwjamba@aol.com

Hi Redtags! It’s great to be writing to you again from the sunny shores ofFlorida. The Hubble SpaceTelescope servicing mission just completed its tasking and the Space Station Crew Change-out mission will launch in 3 weeks. I got a few emails this week, so will start out with them.

From A1 MOSHER comes this one: He was saddened about the passing of Fred GERKEN and Ron TUBBS as mentioned in the last Checkpoints. The picture ofVic Apodaca and Jimmy BRINKMAN brought back some long-lost memories. He has kept up to date through the class column and will be at the 40th Reunion. He then gave an update on Tucson and on his family. “To bring you up to date on Tucson, you should talk to Don SHEPPERD as he is building a house to retire in well up the mountainside here in Tucson. On the other hand, I’ve been here since ‘75, when the town was small. I retired from Boeing in December, following 16 years in the AF and 15 in the ANG. I see by your column that Bill HAUGEN also retired from Boeing. We’ll have something to talk about at the Reunion. On the home front, all five of the kids are out of the house. One is a flight attendant with Northwest, another is a cop in Virginia Beach, the third is an accountant in Washington, DC, number four sells insurance (trying to get on with USAA in Phoenix) and the little boy is assistant director at the Hilton Squaw Peak in Phoenix. So Ann and I travel quite a bit. Ann is a buyer for ‘The West’ which is a needlepoint shop run by all volunteers. They gave over $100,000 to women’s and children’s charities here in Tucson last year. Proud of her! Me I just fly my model airplanes and sit in the sun. Thirty-one planes at last count it’s an addiction. Will keep in touch now that I’m computer illiterate and have lots of time. COUGAR.”

Got an interesting email from Phil MERKEL. “Steve METTLER and I got together for dinner a couple ofweeks ago. While rehashing old times, we got on the subject of the Air Force Museum at Wright-Pat and a certain 0-2 that hangs in the museum and we had a brain excursion. Steve had flown that particular 0-2 out of DaNang. Recalling that HP MARTIN had been killed at DaNang in a rocket attack and had likely flown the same airplane, we thought that a campaign to stencil HP’s name on it might be in order. Anyone have some fetch with the AF Museum? Any FACs want to participate in the campaign?Topic for the Reunion? Cheers, Phil.”

To which, Butch VICCELLIO sent an answer: “Try Maj Gen Charles D Metcalf, USAF (Ret), Director of USAF Museum. A great guy, but don’t get hopes too high. Most named aircraft in museum have personal relationship to deceased. Worth a try. Butch.”

Dave Holt took time to drop me an interesting story. “I was on my way home from my third trip to court in a small town in Georgia where their idea of a fund-raiser is to give speeding tickets to folks with out-of-town license plates. I was determined to fight the fine and insurance costs of a hugely-inflated speed was but was continued twice before they let me plea bargain to 10 miles per hour over the limit (which is what I was

Class of 1962 - 40th Reunion

USAFA vs. Navy 2-6 October 2002

doing, on a four-lane remote highway). Anyway, I was boiling mad while I was driving home after paying a lesser fine, especially since the place is on the way to my lake house and I’ll be there again many times. A car passed me and I noticed a Purple Heart license plate. I was struck with the idea that the cops in that town would be less likely to hit me for their fund-raisers in the future if I had a Purple Heart tag. When renewal time came I took my DD214 and had already written out my check for $173.1 was pleased to tear up the check when they told me that I didn’t have to pay Georgia changed its law last year and now collects no ad valorem tax on one vehicle registered to a Purple Heart holder and they also give you the plate free.” Verygood information for Georgia residents. Thanks, Dave, and drive carefully.

In my last column, I told you about the mini-reunion in Dallas-FtWorth but couldn’t fit a picture into the column because of space limits. I am enclosing a picture of the gang at the Arlington Ball Park where they attended a major league baseball game. I won’t say that old age is taking its toll but note that the two classmates in front were unable to stand while the seven in the back row needed a handrail to stand erect. In the front row from left are Grant LANNON and Tuck MCATEE. Back row: Mike WITLIAMS, Butch VICCELLIO, Bob STAIB, Bob KEIGHERY, Jerry SMITH, Vern WOOD and Jim D’ENTREMONT. Good picture, Redtags.

Received a belated holiday greeting from Ted and Leslie NEFF. They said that they were dejected because of a string of unhappy events that happened to friends and family, from losing friends in the Sept 11 attacks to losing friends to other events. Leslie almost lost her job as a flight attendant but got a last minute reprieve. From there, things picked up. They visited many family members including the grandchildren a few times, parents, god children, cousins and others. The year finally picked up and things are looking much brighter. They were finally able to send out the holiday greeting. (I can relate to that. I make my holiday newsletter, The Jambagram, a lighthearted spoofofthe year’s events. I tried for two months to compose some witty lines but couldn’t get into the mood until after Christmas.) I’m glad you are back on track and feeling good about the world again. Thanks for the holiday greeting.

Gary and Jeannie BAUGHMAN sent a very nice picture in their holiday greeting but I couldn’t print it in the last issue because of column limits. So here it is. For those ofyou who haven’t had Lasik surgery yet, Gary is on the left and Jeanne is on the right.

I guess that’s it for now.

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

Just as I was preparing this article I regret to say we received an email from the AOG with some very sad news of the passing of our classmate, Pete HAMMERTON, on March 18th Funeral services were held at the Desert Dove Chapel on Davis Monthan AFB in Tucson on the 21 st of March. In lieu of flowers, memorial donations can be made out in his memory to the Association ofGraduates General Operating Fund. Please indicate memorial for Ralph P. Flammerton on the check. Our heart and thoughts go out to Pete’s family and loved ones.

Wasn’t the last magazine format something else? The quality and layout are really surprising. Now that I took the plunge and bought a new super fast computer last week along with a flat panel LCD monitor, it’s one great machine, I could write to you guys all day. Unfortunately, at the same time the AOG have put out some rules for us Class Scribes to live by. The new rules include a word limit of 1,200 words (we [’63] have been averaging about 2,000). For class reunions we can jump up to 2,500 words (closer to our average).

It does looks like most everyone took some time after the holidays to catch their breath. Therefore, the news this time is a little thin. That said, we do have a couple ofitems of interest that affect our immediate future.

The Class Web Page is up and running! Ifyou haven’t already, go to http: / /www.usafa63.org/ and log on! Any comments, questions or inputs can be sent to the Web Masters (Gil MERKLE and Jim KUHN). I sent a note to webmaster@usafa63.org and Gil responded the next morning. According to the AOG our Class Officers formally designate our webmaster and that person can change URLs and links on behalf of the class. The Web page should become a very important part of our class intra-communications (is that the right word?). ButchVERDIER was telling me the other day that he and Bob HAYES are planning to make use of the Web page to keep folks informed of the upcoming 40th Reunion. Additionally, some of you have suggested we post copies of the Class News on the page. That will not be a difficult task and maybe we can add photographs and articles of interest that would not otherwise get on in the actual magazine because of lack of room (1,500 words and three photos) or, in the case of photos, because of resolution problems.

Planning for the 40* Class Reunion is underway. As you undoubtedly noticed in the previous paragraph, Butch and Bob are our project leaders for this event. Jimmie BUTLER will be a consultant this time around. Maybe we should bestow on Jimmie the title of“Reunion Emeritus”. What do you think? Butch tells me that as of this writing no date for the big event can be set because the Athletic Association doesn’t know what the home game (that’s football) dates will be or who the opponents will be. The first game of the year will be Parents Weekend (first Saturday in September) and the Army Game is scheduled for early November. If you remember during that cold (brrrrrrr!) 30th Reunion back about 10 years ago, we decided to not do that again. So, in between is the problem. Standby for more. I can still remember a whole bunch of us in Michelle’s eating ice cream while the snow was coming down outside.

Procedural point of order start checking the Web site. When you read this article it will already be the end of May or early June and the football schedule and a reunion date should all be sorted out by then. Early in May, Bill BALL is hosting a dinner for local classmates who wish to participate in the reunion planning so we should have more data posted shortly after that. Butch does have an idea ofwhat events will be available. For example, golfwill be on Thursday, the Memorial Ceremony, lunch at Mitch’s and the formal dinner will be on Friday. By the way, I mean formal only in the context it is a sit-down affair and not a buffet. Feedback received from previous reunions, including the “mini-reunions”, tells us a lot of us is want to have more time during the weekend to just

spend with each other talking about our experiences, hanger flying, telling lies, bragging on our kids etc. I think Butch really has something there. Let me tell you about my kids

As a reminder of how much fun we had at the 35th I included a couple of photos from that event.

Butch and Bob are looking for any suggestions, ideas or whatever that you may have. Please send your thoughts to Butch at pcverdier @juno.com. It might be a great idea to make a point of inviting our children and their families to join us at the 40* Class Reunion. I think my family is alreadyplanning on the trip or they may be just telling me what I want to hear. Another idea: after reading a story about BG Robinson Risner sent to us by Joe Lee BURNS, (also read the Winter Checkpoints story about the dedication of a statue of General Risner in the Air Gardens) it might be a great experience to have General Risner attend the reunion with us and speak at the banquet on Friday evening.

Not so trivial trivia: did you know the Class of2003 is aYellowTag Class? Should we think about establishing some permanent ties with the Class of‘03? You know me, when it comes to a good idea I am generally a day late and a dollar short 2003 will be graduated and gone by the time we find each other.

Quick Inputs: A voice from the past: Hugh COLEMAN checked in last week. Hugh lives in Kelso, WA and can be reached at colemanhl @mindspring.com. James HANNAM sent an update on his new job assignment as director, AF Programs, Raytheon Company. Jim’s email is (Home) hannam@earthlink.net. Larry EASTMAN (eastmanlr @aol.com) also has a new job title: Vice President Federal Systems Organization Company: Xyterra Computing Inc.

Talked with Diff the other day and he is still wrestling with what to do about the Cups. If you remember from last year this time he had received some inputs on how we could preserve and protect the Cups. One option included following the AOG idea of collecting old class rings, melting them and making new rings from the ingot. We (‘63) would have the cups melted into an ingot, pass the ingot on to a later class (say 2063, or...) for them to make cups for their class and then perpetuate the tradition. Another ofthe other options was to track sons and daughters of‘63 grads, find one or more who will take responsibilityfor the cups, use them from time-to-time in a Memorial Service to the past Class of 1963. Ifyou have any more ideas I am sure Diffwill be happy to have them. You can contact him at (jimdiff@foxinternet.com).

We again heard from Ralph WETTERHAHN who wrote a note to us after reading the previous issue of Checkpoints. Says he has been back to Kamchatka in the Russian Far East to do the “show and tell” regarding the WWII Navy PV-1 Ventura wreck and remains he found on the side of a volcano a year earlier. He added the story would be on NOVA later this year. On another trip to Russia later this spring Ralph will be looking

A handful of‘63gradsgathered at the2002Founders’Daydinner to recognize the accomplishments offellow ‘63 grad Gen. (Ret) Ron Fogleman, and ‘64 gradHarryPearce. In the front row from left are Dave Nuss, Larry Hoffman, Jim Allburn, former Dean Brig. Gen. (Ret) Robert McDermott, Jim Gaston and GregFox. In the back roware Mike Christy, Gen. (Ret) Ron Fogleman, and Everett Vaughn.

into MIAs from the Korean War. He says the Russians brought a number ofF-86 pilots into the Soviet Union back then. These guys never returned. Now, that will be a very interesting story to read about. You can tell I really get a kick out of hearing about Ralph’s adventures keep it up.

Tom FYRER’S son, Wesley, sent a Web article from the Denver Post related to some bad press for the Academy maybe somewhat deserved. We thought that some ofyou might want to check the article out for yourself so the URL is included here. It was still posted as I wrote this note in March: (http://www.denverpost.com/Stories/0,1002,11%257E422537,00 ,html?search=f). The story was written on the 24lh of February this year. Probably will still be there in June. I don’t think the old Alma Mater is in trouble because the leadership appears to be dealing with the problem; however, the publicity isn’t all that good.

Hope this missive finds you relaxed and enjoying life. Linda and I are really looking hard at cutting back on the job thing and moving toward a gentler, less stressful life style—maybe Arizona, very near a golf course, with a “Street Legal” golf cart in the garage. Is that a plan or what? If I could only play golf....

Bob Hovde

206 Walker Ave.

Huntsville, AL 35801

H: (256) 532-3923 0: (256) 895-2807

Fax: (256) 895-9222

H: rjslhovde@telocity.com

0: bhovde@space.hsv.usra.edu

Sad News: It’s been a bad winter for ’64. As I was going to press with this article in March, I got an email from the AOG saying that Jack HUDSON had died of a heart attack on March 15th in Tallahassee. The memorial service was planned for March 24th in Hapeville, GA.

In January, I got another one of the AOG’s “We regret to inform you...” messages about the “death of Col (Ret) Hugh C. WHATLEY (CS17), on 10 Jan 2002 of Lou Gehrig’s Disease in Fairfax, VA.” The funeral service was at the Old Post Chapel (Ft Myer) with burial in Arlington Cemetery.

This all came just a couple of months after I attended the funeral of Fred TEDESCO here in Huntsville. Fred died of a heart attack while starting his truck when he was leaving a local barbeque restaurant, where he had eaten dinner with friends.

News From NASA: Fred GREGORY has been named the associate administrator for Space Flight, placing him permanently in charge of the agency’s Human Exploration and Development of Space Enterprise. Fred had served as acting associate administrator for the office since Decernher, when he replaced Joseph H. Rothenberg, who retired. “I am pleased Fred agreed to make this commitment to what is one of the most important positions within NASA,” saidAdministrator O’Keefe. “He brings great experience and leadership to this office, and his commitment to safety is vital as our human space flight program moves forward.” Previously, Fred was the associate administrator for Safety and Mission Assurance, responsible for the safety and reliability of all NASA programs.

Lucky-gram: Just after Christmas, I got a holiday message from Lucky LUCHTEL. “Just thought I would subject y’all to a short Xmas letter and pass along our best holiday wishes to everyone. Not much change here. I am still practicing law as a lobbyist. Patti is pursuing fluency in Spanish- she spent two months at a language school in Guatemala last winter while I was lobbying and will be doing the same this winter. She has been doing volunteer work as an interpreter and is at a local hospital doing that as I write this. The Iowa legislature made me an honorary Pioneer Lawmaker this year about 20 people who have never served in the legislature have been given that recognition over the years. Hey, the Honor Code still works guys, even in politics!

“Kids and grandkids are all doing very well. Kathleen and family (they have three kids) are in Omaha and Kristina (single) is in San Diego. Kathleen is teaching and Kristina works with the probation department of San Diego County. She is fluent in Spanish and works with Spanish speaking youngsters in trouble. The women in my family speak at least two languages -1 am still struggling with English. Again, Happy Holidays to y’all! —Lucky”

Ex-Lawyer News: Matt FEIERTAG writes, “Bob, I don’t think I passed this on to you. If I did just chalk it up to my Alzheimer’s (the memory is the second thing to go). I now have a new position and career. After 30 years of lawyering, I am finally done -1 served my time in hell! When the insurance company I worked for the last 18 years decided to outsource the legal department, I decided it was time for me to find something new. It took a while for a slot to open up, but I am now working for Lockheed Martin, who is the contractor for the Navy at NAS Fallon (60 miles east of Carson City). My position is as one of the mission coordinators for the Tactical Aircrew Combat Training System (TACTS) [similar to the USAF ACMI] at the Naval Strike and AirWarfare Center. We coordinate with the aircrews flying the tactical missions at the ranges located in the Nevada

desert east ofFallon, making sure their pods are working so we can record their missions and coordinating with the threats on the ranges, etc. If I tell you any more, I’ll have to kill you!

“I really enjoy the work, and it is such a pleasant change from what I had been doing. Mybackground flying the RF-4 with the Nevada Air Guard was very helpful in getting this position. I have about a 75-minute commute each way, but the traffic is not bad. I plan to start listening to books on tape. I’ll be the best-read (listened) person around. Unfortunately, going back to work has severely impacted my extracurricular activities! Oh, well. It will help pay for the new Harley Davidson Dyna Wide Glide I just bought, and the new road bicycle I am going to get!” Matt. You do realize WHERE NAS Fallon is, don’t you? You go to the end of the Earth and turn right...

Another Lawyer Speaks: Our lawyer/fertilizer man (Is that redundant?)

Dave Neal writes, “With Bill SKAER’s daughter Malia at Stanford, we see a lot more of him and Marcia these days. She will be a cheerleader next year (sophomore) so I expect to see them here for more football weekends. I had a nice visit with Jim WHEELER who was in town on business last week. We had dinner at a Sicilian friend’s restaurant in North Beach after successfully doing the San Francisco parking spot hunt.

“Mountain biking is sure a lot of fun. We were doing a full moon ride recently with the unusually bright moon on a narrow single-track trail by moonlight. As we got under heavy brush, I rode off the trail dropping into a canyon, but was saved from a serious fall by the trailside “safety tree” which caught me by the ribs only breaking two. It only hurts when I laugh or cough which is often as a lingering chest cold coincided with the little fall. I may use the headlight next time I get under the heavybushes and trees! I have an extra bike for you to ride when you come to visit, but I won’t make you ride at night.” Thanks, Dave. Sandy was mad at me for weeks after I skied off a cliff. I don’t even want to think what she’d do if I went off on a bike - at night - with no lights!

Next time, let’s have all good news! Be careful out there!

Rick Zurbrugg Box 22615

Hilton Head Island, SC 29925 (843) 689-5321

FAX: (843) 689-5403

E-mail: ezurb@mindspring.com

Hey ‘65!

Hope this column finds you happily pursuing your goals, enjoying your family and friends to the fullest, and coping with aging far more successfully than my desperate struggle. I think it was Bette Davis who said: “Getting older is not for sissies”.

Seen and Heard Dept: Atlanta Journal Feb 17,2002 JOBS: “Right now the industry [information technology ] is flat.’ notes Thomas D. PILSCH, assistant dean for continuing education and director of the Georgia Tech ComputerTraining Facility... Information security is going to lead the IT workplace recovery.” The article was fascinating and make no mistake, our man Tom is MR. IT here in Atlanta!

Marc SABIN: Recently our oldest son, Shanan, graduated from the Officer Basic Course at Ft Eustis, VA and is now at his assignment with the Transportation Corps of the US Army at Ft Story, VA. Our youngest son is a 3rd classman in 3rd Sq at USAFA. He is doing very well in all phases of cadet life. His major is English and he minors in Spanish. He’s an Honor Rep for his class in 3rd and recently boxed at 195 lbs in the wing open (he is in silver trunks).’’

Sabin the youngermixes it up at the WingOpen.

The former scribe of this space, Rod RODMAN, doing his part to help out contributes: “Judi and I are in flux right now, beginning to center our life more on Orlando than Vermont. Life is very relaxing in the wilds of Vermont’s mountains, but the action money earning opportunities and social life is much better in Orlando. I have been spreading myself around, looking to get some work in the public speaking arena

(www.rodman-communications.com). Recently, I also became involved with an investment banking company we are involved in putting together a holding company that will have as a start an entertainment company initiallyfeaturing our old rock ‘n’ roll idols. We are also in the process of making an offer on several other up-and-running companies. People who might want to get into the fun of venture investing out there should get in touch with me (rodrodman@earthlink.net). It is actually a fascinating arena and potentially quite profitable when connected to people who know what they are doing. BILL and Marge NIELSEN came to the area from California a couple ofmonths back to settle his mother’s estate. Anyone coming to Orlando or Southern Vermont do give us an email.”

Chuck DAHLBERG: “Margitta and I recently completed a month-long cross country trip from the East to West Coast. We are headed back to Hawaii for a while, and along the way we were able to spend time with fellow Niners, including John and Sarah VICKERY, Skip and Susan COX, J.C. and Pat EDWARDS, and Chuck RYERSON. I also visited with my nephew Peter, who is a lieutenant at Los Angeles AFB.

Bill COLE: “... I will simply say that I will celebrate the big “60” on 13 March, and that means that by FAA mandate I will no longer be able to fly as a captain in airline operations. The feds, as usual, are way behind the rest of the world on this issue. It is political rather than rational. But, I will work in our training center as a simulator instructor for two to three years just to stay busy and to stash some more cash... My son Chris is now a high school junior so we have some expenses ahead. Also, I really enjoy the people here at Southwest Airlines it is a great place to work. I hope all is well. Best wishes, BC”

Jeff SILLIMAN: (Scribe’s note: Jeff was diagnosed last year with CML, a leukemia.) “.. .I’m still doing very well on the Gleevec, in remission with no noticeable side effects and feeling quite well. I now get a blood test every month and see the oncologist every other month. He seems pleased with everything but still can’t give me too much on the long-term outlook as there just isn’t that much historywith CML and Gleevec. He’s keeping me on it which seems to be the recommended approach at this point. I am very grateful to the good Lord for all of this and a good medical/Rx program that is picking up the vast majority of the costs. I’m also grateful to my wonderful family and friends who have stood by me with their prayers and support. I have a lot to be thankful for! ...In His keeping, Jeff.” Jeff, you remain in our prayers.

Hank BONDURAK: “Dear Family and Friends... a quick update to tell you what is going on. I am home from the Providence Hospital Rehabilitation. Been in Physical and Occupational Therapy since Feb 21. I’ve had ups and downs in reaction to treatment and will commence another round of Chemo in a couple weeks. It’s a tough program but one highly sought after. I was fortunate to qualify and be selected for treatment there by my doctors. It is rigorous but worthwhile. They train you to get strong and do some basic care activities we all take for granted! No prognosis but I have had an attitude change! I’ve learned more about hope, love, and faith than I ever knew... Remember the one thing I always have said

No matter how bad you think you have it, someone is worse off. Bottom line for now Trust in the Lord and always love your family and friends. They are always there for you. I’ll get back to you all soon! From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your concern, love, and prayers!”

Right On, Hank!

Ken McALEAR: “Last May (2001), Ginny and I had one of those life experiences that exceeds my poor ability to adequately describe. It wasn’t an earth-shattering event, but it was a very special moment for us. It was an occasion that many of our classmates have also experienced (some more than once), so I know that many of them can relate. Ginny and I had the honor of pinning gold bars on our son Chris and proudly watching as he received his diploma from our U. S. Air Force Academy. It was a very proud moment to say the least, approaching or maybe even exceeding the pride I had felt 36 years earlier. Adding special significance to the day was having the man I started myAir Force career with 40

years earlier, my doolie summer roommate Mike RYAN, present Chris’ diploma to him; and having Janie, Harv and Millie SHELTON, and other dear friends and family share the experience with us. I’m attaching a picture of Chris with proud parents. It was the third USAFA graduation for my proud mother; my brother Rod graduated in 79.”

Parting Shots: What could be finer than ‘65ers enjoying the good life?

Good guys from 22nd do golfon HH, Feb 02: Charles and KayPrice, Ron Bailey, and Jim and JudyLipham.

Ken KRAUSE: “Carol and I have finished our cruising of the past 20 months having traveled from St Petersburg to Key West to Georgian Bay to Lake Champlain and back to Tampa Bay. A wonderful way to enjoy retirement!We will settle in Gainesville, FL and enjoy our grandsons (and, of course, their parents). New address will be sent when we get one.” Thanks Ken, what a life!

There you have it, '65. Be well, do good work, stay in touch, and savor every precious day. Rick

my

I

-

-

ASTRNM-,

Ryan Denny

1635 Mary Todd Lane

O’Fallon, IL 62269

H: (618) 624-4255

W: (314) 232-4180

E-mail: ryanden@aol.com

Greetings Redtags! Paul STEIN left us too soon, but he left a great legacy of new projects and of “putting things right” at USAFA. The last issue of Checkpoints had several outstanding articles about Paul and a “Gone but Not Forgotten” piece that did the best job of describing a departed classmate and his life better than any I have seen to date. A heartfelt thanks to all those who contributed to it. The AOG received a note from Paul’s wife, Carol, addressed to the Class of 1966. It read: “Myfamily and I would like to thank you for your generous contribution to the ALS Association in Paul’s name. It is our fondest hope that this terrible disease will soon be defeated and that no one else will have to suffer its effects. We are very pleased you decided to remember him in this way. Fondly, Carol.”

One of our classmates who sent his condolences was Ron RIDDHAGNI. Ron is another member of‘66 who (in addition to Hans MUEH) is still on active duty. He is an AirVice Marshal in the Royal Thai Air Force and is in the office of the Deputy CINC hey, there is still a chance that one of our Redtags will make four stars.

Speaking of Redtags, the Class of ‘02 (that’s 2002 for you nervous types who are worried about Y3K problems) is also a Redtag class and they have commissioned a class picture. (I don’t think they had invented pictures yet back in our days.) The artist, Rick Broome, wanted to include some hidden messages or tributes to past Redtag classes. Since we are about as “past” a Redtag class as you can get, he has included a red F-106 in the picture. Thanks to Vic ANDREWS for remembering that story who was it that bought red enamel paint instead of water colors?

We just had a St Patrick’s Day party for a few of my Irish friends. Unfortunately, everybody thinks their Irish on St Pat’s Day, so there was a large crowd. In that crowd though, were a few of our Irish classmates (green instead of red for the occasion). Ron MOREY is living in O’Fallon, IL and enjoying retired life. Whenever people ask me what Ron is doing, I get a wistful look on my face and say, “whatever he wants to do.” Ron and Ann spend a lot of time on the road traveling, visiting friends and relatives, and goingwhere the wind blows them. Jim MURPHY also lives in O’Fallon and is working for ARINC. His daughter is a weather officer at Dyess AFB, married to a C-130 pilot (my favorite kind). Another classmate who showed up trying to pass for Irish was Dennie WATSON. Dennie lives in Kansas City and manages property and money for rich folks. He and a few others kept me up until 0400, telling stories that I can’t remember. Next year, the Irish coffee will be decaf.

Bill HUDSPETH, wearing green, also stoppedbyfrom his home in Nashville, IL. Bill works with the Officers Christian Fellowship and provides support and counseling to youth groups. He was telling me about a book he just read called “From Success to Significance”. The concept is that

Chris McAlear (’01) with proudparents, Ken and Ginny. Thephoto was taken byHarv Shelton.

folks like us have had careers and success; now we should try to do some things that are significant, that make an impact on people and the world. It’s a pretty good concept some ofyou old, rich guys should think about it. I know some of us young, poor guys have.

Well, the news from you guys has been so sparse this quarter that I’m going to have to make good on my promise to fill the empty space with news about me. I’m still working at Boeing in St Louis (aka the old McDonnell Douglas). We just won a major contract to put “glass cockpits” into most of the USAF’s C-130 aircraft and eliminate the navigators. (No, my job is not the “eliminate the navigator” part.) As the aircraft change, all of the training systems have to be updated, the crews trained to fly a digital cockpit without a navigator, and the maintainers trained to fix digital avionics. Myjob is to manage all the changes to the training system, keep all of the C-130 users happy, and don’t screw up the current training systems. Now you see why I get that wistful look when I talk about what Ron is doing.

It’s summertime. As you travel around and run into (or over) classmates, get their story, take their picture, and send it to me. Till next time... Happy Landings!

Larry Wilson

13100 Pinehurst Ave. NE Albuquerque, NM 87111

H: (505) 291-8949

W: (505) 816-2092/DSN: 246-2404

E-mail: Lwilsn628@aol.com

Greetings and Happy Springtime - As I compose this, the sun is shining, the birds are singing, and I have yard work in progress. But the Checkpoints input is due and it seems like a good excuse for a break. Soawwwwaaaaayyyyy we go...

First, a note from Chuck HEFLEBOWER, very recently retired (Nov 01, effective 1 Jan 02) from his final active duty assignment in Korea as the 7th AF Commander. He has a couple of pending adventures - first, “Susan and I moved back to the D.C. area where we have a house we must live in due to the two-year rule. We bought the house right after we were married and I was a Captain. We are doing considerable downsizing!” Additionally, “...I was asked by General Jumper to serve as one of five “Senior Mentors” in a program General Ryan started a couple of years ago. So far that is keeping me pretty busy. I have also hung out a consultant shingle.” Chuck, I suspect we all think there is plenty of need for senior mentors in the military these days... Please send another update note with info about your mentoring activities. Glad to hearyou are coming to the reunion.

Next, from Bruce & Stormy McDonald - I will print their note in its entirety, as it is unique: “We’ve got news. Back in August oflastyear after thinking long and hard about retiring and what to do afterward, we applied for an assignment with the Peace Corps. We just learned we’ve been accepted. We will be leaving for Bulgaria on June 17. There will be a three-month training period in-country, during which we will learn enough Bulgarian to get started, then a two-year assignment. We won’t knowwhich village or town we’ll be assigned to until the end of our training. We will be teaching English, Stormy in an elementary school and Bruce in a high school. In addition to teaching students we will be working with their teachers to reach more broadly into the community, and will have the opportunity to involve ourselves in community projects in an economy that is still shaking off the old ways of the former communist government.

“There are 120 Peace Corps volunteers currently serving in Bulgaria. The country is about the size of Tennessee and is in the Balkan Mountains, with Greece and the Mediterranean to the South. The Danube River forms the northern border with Romania. To the West are the former Yugoslavia, then Albania and the Adriatic and the heel of Italy. The Black Sea is to the East with Turkey adjoining southeast. In answer to your question, because we want to and because we can. We’re excited about it, looking forward to a new challenge, the first of which is getting ready to go. (Books, clothing, furniture, cars sell, store, toss, what to take, what to do?) We’ll rent the house out. Quite a puzzle; now it seems there’s so little time all of a sudden.

“We’ll stay in touch, and could possibly even have regular access to email; certainly as a minimum on occasional trips to the capital. I’ll be giving up this AOL account, and will let you know our next email address before we leave.” Wow... For all those who had considered a change of pace in retirement but weren’t quite ready to take a large step perhaps you might contact the McDonalds for some guidance. Bruce we’ll look forward to inputs about your Great Adventure.

As we continue to read the headlines and view the news reports about the war in Afghanistan, I recalled that we have an expert amongst us: Warren SMITH, lost soul now found who changed direction during our first class year. I asked him for his thoughts here’s his verbatim reply:

Class of 1967 - 35th Reunion USAFA vs. Notre Dame 17-20 October 2002

“The effect on my part of the world, meaning China and Tibet, has been to take the focus off those places and put it on Afghanistan and the Islamic world. China has tried to cozy up to the U.S. as an ally against terrorism and in order to preclude any U.S. criticism of its crackdown on the Muslims of Xinjiang and Tibetans, both of whose separatist movements the Chinese characterize as terrorism. Secondly, the Chinese and the Russians are so far keeping quiet about the U.S. move into Afghanistan, Pakistan and Central Asia, but they can’t be happy about it. China, Russia and four Central Asian states had formed an organization, the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, prior to 9/11, in an attempt to exert influence in this area, all of which has gone to hell due to the U.S. move into the area. China is concerned about U.S. influence with Pakistan, a longtime Chinese ally. India is also concerned. Success in Afghanistan seems quite possible, actually, but the ramifications ofthe U.S. move into the area are harder to predict.

“For the most part, the Islamic fundamentalists are living in the Middle Ages. They have only a few people competent in modern tech; therefore I think they will have some successes like 9/11 but ultimatelythey represent an attempt to return to the past, an idealized past that never existed in reality, and they cannot succeed, ft seems like a last-ditch stand against modernity, which unfortunately comes in a predominantlyWestern form and therefore we get the blame for what they don’t like about it. I am a bit concerned about the U.S. getting involved in too many places, many of which have unresolvable conflicts. Our presence in too many countries just reinforces the perception of our enemies that we are out to control the world.” For those of you who would like to discuss this topic further

Buddy/Warren is planning to attend our 35th.

About the 35th Reunion it is a work in progress, under the skillful hands and hard work of Frank CHUBA and crew. Their most current info is available on our web site (http://www.aog-usafa.org/1967). Make your reservations and start packing.

Some of you may have noticed that this column has fewer and longer inputs than most of those in the past. In part that is because of the quality of these; in part because of the dearth of other stuff. Hearken back to our early comp sci classes and recall “GIGO;” the Checkpoints corollary is “No GI, no GO.”

A final Academy note: some of you are aware of the incredibly stupid and criminal activities of some of today’s cadets, which too often hit the press. I don’t have an answer or solution. I wish I did. I wish someone, anyone did. Pray for strength, for the Academy, and the Air Force. Shoot me some inputs. See you in October. Adios, my friends.

Tim Davidson # 9712 Hidden Valley Road

Vienna, VA 22181-6094

mmmm (703) 255-5313 Ii§§f Fax: (703) 255-5377

E-mail: timd@erols.com

^

HELLO ’68! With winter almost gone and only three inches of snow to show for it, I feel like the Northern Virginia seasons skipped a beat and went from fall directly into spring. In the news below, you will see that this was not the case at other classmates’ abodes.

WELCOME WAGON DEPT: To the Class of 2002: Best wishes for much success as you begin your careers in the world’s greatest Air Force. Be proud of your heritage and congratulations on being added to our rolls as the newest members of USAFA’s Long Blue Line.

PACAF GETS NEW 3-STAR: A very warm and sincere congratulations to Steve and Henrietta POLK on Steve’s promotion to Lieutenant General. Steve will be moving from Air Education and Training Command at Randolph Air Force Base to assume duties as Bill BEGERT’s Vice Commander at PACAF in Hawaii. I believe this is another ’68 first, with the Commander andVice Commander of an Air Force major command, both coming from the same Academy class. Can anyone say, “Aloha!!”

FIRST LETTER TO CLASS SCRIBE DEPT: From the cold northern environs of Buffalo, NY, I received a hand-written letter from our very own Dave KOZAK, ft was his first letter to a Class Scribe since we graduated, so there was quite a bit of news to pass along. Following graduation from USAFA, Dave went to pilot training and ended up flying F-4s in Vietnam, Okinawa, and Nellis from 1971-1979. He then left active duty and joined the Air Force Reserves out of Austin, TX. From 1981-1991 he flew F-4s and from 1991-1992, he flew F-16s with the same unit. From 1993-1996,

North Pole Buffalo Chapter: Dave Kozak digs out ofBuffalo’s Snowstorm ofthe Century.

Dave was assigned to the Pentagon. He completed his Air Force service as the F-16 Vice Wing Commander at Homestead from 1996-1998 and retired on 4 July 1998. Since 1979, Dave has also been flying for Continental Airlines in the B-727, DC-9, and MD-80. He is currently TDY to Houston, TX where he is upgrading to the B-777. His next retirement date from Continental is projected for March 2007.

In addition to his airline duties, Dave plays husband, dad, and grandpa. His wife, Vera, lives with him in Buffalo. His son David and daughter-inlaw Amy teach elementary school and have 2.5-year-old “Princess Victoria.” His daughter Darci is a forensic chemist and lives in Philadelphia. Dave said that he was airborne on 9/1 land flying into Newarkwhen he saw the North Tower of theWorld Trade Center on fire. He mentioned that his military training really came in handy in calming the young crew and passengers. Dave finished by saying that he stays in occasional contact with Tim AYRES, Mike BARIBEAU, lay BARNES, Howie KYLE, Dave “Sparky” STROBEL, Richard VIHEL, and Marty COLE. The photo shows what took three days of Dave’s time from 28-30 December 2001.

FUNNIEST FAMILY NEWSLETTER DEPT: The ’68 “Tongue-In-Cheek Award” for funniest holiday newsletter goes to David and Alex PREVOST. In addition to the “hyper-witty” family news about David and Alexandra’s work experiences; updates on the kids with Andi in Kansas City, Jessica in her second year at Florida State, and JD in his senioryear ofhigh school; and the latest efforts to put a “face-lift” on their home, there was the story of the mattress delivery that nearly wrecked their living room and took out the bay window. For tales of the Prevosts versus Joe’s Mattress Delivery Service, please drop an email to dprevost@worldnet.att.net. It will be worth your effort!

‘68 SPOTLIGHT

The Spotlight for our Spring 2002 column falls on Larry FUNK ‘68’s lone F-105 “Thud” driver. Following his cadet days and pilot training, Larry went into F-105s and was stationed at Korat Royal Thai Air Base. After his days in Southeast Asia, he was assigned to Nellis in the Wild Weasel training squadron. Later, he left active duty and joined the Kansas Air Guard as a Thud instructor and then stepped out ofuniform completely in 1976.

Then (Circa 1973): LarryFunk Thud Jock.

A self-proclaimed recluse, Larry is now married to wife, Janet, and lives in the wilds of Montana. In reality, he spends a decent amount of time traveling from the safety of his home to the more civilized portions of the world as a consultant for business development in the area of high-tech markets. Most recently, he has been spending time in the “photonic component area” working with “little gadgets and computer chips that make fiber optic networks function.”

When asked what the Academy meant to him, Larry stated, “The Academy was always the ideal. The ability to actually go there and make it a reality was something for which I am extremely proud. It has been a measure of strength for the education I received and for life-long bonds of friendship. It has served as a foundation for everything I have ever been able to do.”

Regarding some life lessons learned, the first lesson came from what Larry called the testing of our class’ character. For some reason when we got to the Academy, Larry remembers that '68 had an instant reputation of being weaklings (e.g., we were the first class that did not have to do pushups, etc.). He remembers hearing the chant “’68! Overweight!” From this ridicule, he learned that you need to work your way out ofthese situations and earn your reputation and respect from others by never giving up. He said, “I have not taken the common path and have assumed some risk that may not have suited everyone else, but it did work for me. The reason that I have been able to live my life on my own terms all comes back to this basic philosophy of never giving up.

The second lesson to pass along is to maintain humility. You can get your head pretty full of yourself about being an AF cadet, a fighter pilot, etc. You need to develop a maturity to see yourself as part of a whole and not the center of the universe. Thanks for your good words Larry, and best wishes for many “Big Sky” vistas and unlimited horizons in your future.

Now (Oct2001): Larry andJanet Funk in Big Sky Country.

THAT’S A WRAP DEPT: Mind the flak; keep ’em flying, and please keep those cards, letters, emails, and photos coming in. FYI, the current Checkpoints policy for class columns limits my column length to 1200 words. I am also limited to three photos for non-reunion columns and a classmate has to be physically pictured in any photo used in the column. As you send in some of your great shots of mountains, kids, etc., please ensure that you are in the photo, too. Ifyou elect to send photos via email, please send them in JPEG format. Thank you for listening to this public service announcement. Ciao for now. Tim

Lindsey Parris

616 King’s Cloister Circle Alexandria, VA 22302

Home: (703) 836-3604

E-mail: 102177.1033@compuserve.com

First thing first. To quell the firestorm of concern that the previous Checkpoints prompted when no mention was made ofLes DYER, let me reassure you that no evil has found its way to his doorstep, and that our man is hale and hearty and thriving still in Peachtree City, GA, continuing his sports career with great enthusiasm and sharing stories with fellow pilot and Peachtree City resident Steve HOPKINS. Les and Terry BRADY hoisted several on one ofTerry’s overnights into Atlanta, and Les and Connie joined Mike and Linda BEEZLEY for an evening on the town during the latters’ business trip there in March. Though with full plates of medical meetings and seminars, Mike did manage to escape for a round of golf with Les while Linda worked. The Beez, who has just made colonel in the Army Reserves, is building a new home and continues as Kansas City’s vascular surgeon extraordinaire.

Big kudos to Dave YOST, President and CEO of Amerisource-Bergen, whose company was recognized by Business Week as one ofthe 10 bestperforming companies ofthe S&P 500. In recognition ofthe blockbuster merger of Dave’s AmeriSource Health with Bergen Bruswig, Dave was scheduled to ring the opening bell on the NYSE on ready for this September 11,2001, so was near ground-zero on that fateful day. AB, the latest brochure which feature’s smilin’ Dave’s picture no fewer than five times, is now the largest pharmaceutical services company in the U.S. dedicated solely to the pharmaceutical supply chain, with annualized sales of approximately $25B. Business Week’s photo of Dave says it all: a smiling ’69er beside the number “10.” So, move over, Bo Derek write Dave for your tea and coffee chit!

Steve KIRBY, who has taken his talents to the mortgage industry, recalls discovering on his flight to Denver from Baltimore in 1965 that fellowpassenger and seatmate (none other than the aforementioned Dave YOST) and he were both bound for USAFA. In the attached picture, Steve is shown working new mortgage loans frenetically, while Kevin, Carla and Tiffany provide comfort and moral support..

San Diego’s Home MortgageBusiness in GoodHands.

Roger “Beetle” BAILEY lives in New lersey and is President and COO of VideoNet, Inc., a Dallas, TX-startup videoconferencing and remote surveillance company with proprietary switching technology that provides full-motion video over a single ISDN line (128K) as compared to the 384K required by existing providers. Under a new contract with Sprint, Roger and company will be videoconferencing to all AAFES locations globally, so troops can maintain real-time contact with their families and significant others.

In February, I finally managed a sortie in Dan THOMAS’ T-34, a seagull’s eye tour of the Bay Area and the cliffs south of San Francisco. Dan, still president ofFocus, a strategic business consulting firm in Palo Alto (home for Dan and Jeannie) recently passed his lead checkride in the Formation and SafetyTraining program, so is now certified to lead formations of airplanes in airshow displays. Not taking long to put his new credential into practice, Dan led a mock attack on the Liberty Ship SS leremiah O’Brien, the only originally configured Liberty Ship still sail-worthy. Based in San Francisco, she sails the bay twice each year on fundraising excursions for charitable foundations. Dan led the “bad guys” (Dan’s T-34, two Nanching CJ-6s, and a Yak-52) in a strafing run until driven off by the “good guys” in T-6s, T-28s, a Bearcat, and a P-51. Twenty planes in all. Great fun. Back to high school. Or maybe USAFA.

Mike ROSE, a principal for Excel, has turned some of his considerable energies back to law, and with a Richard Boone “Have JD, will travel” perspective, is involved in a dozen or so cases ranging from Charleston, SC (where he and Vivian live) to Sacramento, CA and from representing individuals to corporations beset with difficult legal problems. The Class is relieved to learn that Vivian continues to recovery nicely and is now driving again.

Wildcat PHILLIPS and clan are thriving, as the picture with the Greater Phillips Clan of State College, PA attests. The 'Cat is now qualified to teach K-12 in Pennsylvania as a substitute, and is enjoying the fact that when day is done, it is done... no lesson planning! I doubt seriously the discipline problems that seem to plague too many schoolrooms of the day are finding their way into any of our main man’s classrooms. Lynn has been a stalwart in the kindergarten classrooms for years now, and daughters Cosette and Meredith are also teaching. Son Dave just graduated from Penn State, and Brett is a high school junior. Wildcat, like many of us, wonders about Tom MCGRAIN’s whereabouts... last heard of flying for Northwest, making an excursion to Mexico to catch the massive butterfly migration, living in Phoenix, and changing email addresses.

Quick Takes: Doug FITZPATRICK is working his way back into gliding, and A1 HUNT reports that Roger LEMPKE, who heads the Reserves in Nebraska, was promoted to major general in October. Tommy LOVE, out Salt Lake way, runs the largest hyperbaric chamber in Utah, the only one that can handle multiple patients simultaneously. Jeff and Anne POSNER are relocating to the D.C. area, where Jeff’s most recent job has taken him, and they are searching for homes near the water in Annapolis.

Bittersweet news on the retirement fronts, as stalwart Tom KECK steps down in May, following close on the heels of Ron MARCOTTE (see preceding Checkpoints) in trading inAF blue for mufti. Tom, the Commander of 8th Air Force at Barksdale Air Force Base, recently visited Operation Enduring Freedom locations to assess the bombers’ (B-52 Stratofortress, B-1B Lancer, and B-2 Spirit) performance and to talk with the professionals who flying and maintaining them. Tom toured the flightline, operations and maintenance centers, munitions depot, and “Tent City” to meet the people who make up the wing. Tying together some of his remarks: “I’ve seen a lot of great, energetic people here that have used their minds and energy to do innovative things. You need to be extremely proud of the job you’ve done since you’ve been here. But it is not over. We are only on mile one of this 26-mile marathon against terrorism. The experience you’ve picked up here, the teamwork and the network you’ve set up here are going to stay with you for the rest ofyour lives.” Esse Non Videri. Godspeed to Ron and Tom in the new phases of their lives. And Class congratulations and thanks to both.

Thanks to the good efforts of many, especially Gary HOWE of the AOG and class officers Terry BRADY and Steve EDELMAN, the Class has found the perfect use of our Class “gift” funds (collected if you will recall at the last reunion and used to date to pay for the pavers with the names of our departed brothers) $69K towards the completion ofPhase I ofthe HeritageWalkway. We are one ofonly two classes funding Phase I ofthis project, which as the name suggests is an elegant walkway with an emphasis on USAFA heritage. Located at the AOG building, it is both prominent and appropriate, andyou can view itwith pride duringyour next visit to USAFA. Cards and letters. Calls and emails. Cheers ‘til next time. In the meantime, keep those love handles rock-hard, my lieges.

Dick Rauschkolb

14640 River Oaks Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80921

H: (719) 487-0887

W: (719) 472-0300/DSN: 333-2067

E-mail: Dick.Rauschkolb@usafa.af.mil

Greetings from snowy Colorado. March madness is alive and well in the Rockies. While the rest ofyou are gearing up for spring, we continue to get pelted by one snowstorm after another. I have always thought there wasn’t a spring in Colorado, nothing over the years has caused me to change my mind. Remember—it snowed for our baccalaureate on 31 May!

On the sports front, winter saw the Falcon basketball team playing some excellent ball. While our record wasn’t very impressive only nine wins the boys were leading in 11 games with two minutes or less remaining. Unfortunately, they lost those games for a number of reasons one being the fact we have a very young team. Of note, we lost to conference champion and Gonzaga-beater, Wyoming, three times. Once in four overtimes, once bythree, and in a majorheartbreaker, by one in the Mountain West Conference Tournament. Coach Joe Scott is putting out a solid product and I wouldn’t be surprised to see us gain at least an NIT invitation in the next two years. TheWing Open was a fewweeks ago. Saw some great fights. Coach Eddie Weichers was honored for his 25 years of coaching boxing at the Academy. He has really compiled a remarkable record winning 16 National Championships. Lots of former Wing Champions returned for the festivities, but I didn’t hear from any 70 men. Wayne Baughman, one of our former Prep School coaches, turned out three allAmericans for the USAFA wrestling team this year. Pretty impressive! Of course, those of us who knowWayne aren’t surprised he had a knack for making our lives miserable during PT training.

Speaking of the Prep School, the Huskies are planning an all-class reunion the end of October. Check out the article elsewhere in this issue for the details. The AOG website www.aog-usafa.org will provide continuous updates. Sure would be nice to have a great turnout from the class of‘66!

By the time you read this, the Academy will be getting ready to send another class out the door. Thirty-two years ago we endured one of the most boring graduation speeches ever written, by then SECDEF Melvin Laird. I don’t remember much after take seats a combination of adult beverages the previous evening and the hot sun made for a long morning. I did notice I wasn’t alone in my plight. As a suggestion, I think they should put water bottles under everyone’s seat at graduation to help with the dehydration brought on by the grueling Colorado sun and “other” factors. Might be a good class gift project.

Wildcat’s Wildcats: Kevin, Cosette, Lynn, Bob his own self, Brett, David, Shawn and Meredith.

The Academy hosts the National Character and Leadership Symposium every year. This sympo brings in scholars and students from around the world. I am pleased to report that our very own Tim KINNAN gave one of the keynote speeches and Terry PETRZELKA conducted a seminar at the conference. Both men did a superbjob. Tim’s remarks to the cadets were right on the money as he talked about the importance ofmaking the right choices in life. He got the cadets’ attention by telling them how he and Gordy KING made wine in their overhead—nowthere was a good choice!

There probably aren’t too many three stars who can say that about their cadet days. Terry also gave a great talk highlighting the point that all problems in business are ethically based. The company he founded, Tectura, is one of the top 100 companies to work for in the country. I can understand that after hearingTerry’sleadershipprincipals. Goodjob men!

Heard from Wild Bill STEALEY (Denise) that he is back in the work force. Seems he can’t get away from the need to work a little despite the fact it may hurt his handicap. Chuck GRAY and Pam just built a new home and invited the whole class down for a weekend. John LIPP wrote he and Janet were off to Santa Domingo in April. He said he has met with several of our classmates in the Sacramento area. Bob DRABANT is a lawyer there and Bruce ROY works for Siemens. Of note, he also saw one of our “Lost Souls”

Pat STOLL. I haven’t seen Pat since our days (‘70-‘71J at Mather—where he was on the receiving end of many Tim SHARKEY passes on our intramural flag football team. Seems Pat “dropped out” for awhile, didn’t cut his hair for a few years, was an artist, transportation department engineer, a legal aide, and now is a construction lawyer. Hope to hear from you Pat and we definitely want to see you at the next Reunion!

Speaking of California, I got a call from a Santa Clara County official who wanted info about USAFA for a Proclamation they were doing. Seems they wanted to throw some kudos to the Academy on the occasion of its 48th Anniversary on 1 April. After asking a few questions, they said they were going to present it to a guy named Chuck REED. Seventy men are everywhere!

Chuck Reed (the guy with the great tie) accepts Proclamation praising USAFA.

We even have a man in Switzerland. Here is a pix of Mike (the Phantom) and Melissa HUBER in their new home in Geneva. Seems Mike and Melissa are enjoying their new residence. Between fixing up the house and yard, they are rapidly becoming wine experts. Mike is now able to tell the difference between Ripple and Boon’s Farm and Thunderbirdno easy feat!

good shape. Denny HALL dropped me a line from Grand Junction where he is running an office for a financial firm. Saw Jim SMITH in the parking lot here. As the director of the Institute for National Security Studies, Jim is a busy man. Duff SMILEY called with a few questions regarding our liaison officer program. Jack MUELLER and Margie continue to have a rough go of it. Jack had to endure another operation on the foot he broke. As I write this, he has been hobbled for over a year. My old roommate, Joe MCCLELIAND, sent me this picture of him in his parade uniform! Yikes I don’t know about you, but I don’t think I could get my parade trou much past my knees. Joe said he ran this photo by our old AOC, Sledge Montgomery, and only got gigged for a “yellow hat”.

The Hubers enjoying their new digs in Geneva the Swiss Miss and the Phantom living the good life.

Larry and Marlene BUSH were quite the BB fans this year. Saw them at several games and Larry indicated they were one of the few Falcon fans who went to Las Vegas for the MWC basketball Tournament. Also saw Mick and Jan DAVEY at one of the games. Bob MCBRIDE checked in and indicated he and Jackie are grandparents and loving it. Bob is doing some consulting, but looking for more to do. I gather his golf game remains in

PASS IN REVIEW!

All Joe’s kidding aside, the only reason he got into this uniform was that he had a portion of his colon removed as a result of colon cancer. He is presently on the road to recovery and waiting to get word on how the chemo worked. Do keep Joe and Missy in your prayers.

Jay and Chris BARRY with daughter Meghan and one of Jay’s Academy recruits for 2006 stopped by Doolittle Hall for a quick visit. It was good to see them. Dusty (RoseAnne) SWANSON claims he will get in single digits this year on the links. Rub a lamp Dusty!

Some ‘70 men should take a bow. The Class of Seventy has 52 members in the Sabre Society more than any other class! The Sabre Society is comprised of people who donate at least $1000 a year to the AOG. The society had 350 members three years ago and now membership is approaching 900. The donation is tax-deductible and a majority of the donation goes to support cadet programs. While we have the largest number, we are trailing in the percentage category. I figure if we can get 25-35 new members we will be the frontrunners in both categories. Check out the AOG website for info on joining or drop me a line and I will send you some info.

Well folks here is hoping you all have a great summer. For those of you heading this way, please give me a call so we can catch up on old times. For you golfers - hit ’em straight and long! Arriba Falcones!

Paul D. Knott 5565 Lantana Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80915

Jgrpy H: (719) 570-9162

ISlSl W: (719) 481 - 9400 '‘jcFMW E-mail: pknott@acninc.net

Greetings from colorful Colorado, where we can have snow one day, Fifties the next, and snow the third. Of course, you will be reading this in late May or early June, but... Actually, the same weather may apply then!

Bob CULBERTSON wrote a moving epitaph for a ’72 grad and good friend, Charlie HARRINGTON. He and Sylvia attended the funeral, and we had a couple of moments to chat. The largest collection of ’71 grads that I know ofthis winter was at the AOG RampartChapter’s annual membership meeting. Jon WROBLEWSKI, Steve DEHAVEN, Cass CASADA, Steve MOTT, Charley LUCY, Andrea and I shared a table. Tom BERRY, who still works for the Academy in the Honor and Ethics section, gave a briefing on the Cams Commission report on the honor system. With a little help from Wrobo and Steve, he got the Powerpoint presentation up and running, and gave the assembled grads and friends a summary of what the present system is and some ideas for improvement. Tom is willing to explain his group’s charter, the cadets’ impressions of the Honor Code, and where they think that implementation and training fall short. Tom’s presentation was abbreviated due to a hockey game, but I saw him talking to many fellow grads afterward. A tradition after the business part

of this get-together is prize-drawing. Our chapter officers go to great lengths to procure ski passes, restaurant certificates, various wines and stronger spirits, and at least one original work by honorary member Rick Broome. For the third year in a row, yours truly got nothing! I was going to see if Charley could see if my lack of return on my investment was actionable. Charley, by the way, works with ffolland and Hart, the local 800-pound gorilla ofColorado Springs law firms in their Real Estate Practice Group. He will focus on construction litigation and real estate.

Ifthere is another claimant for the longest distance traveled to Reunion other than Carol HEITMANN RUDOLPH, I’d like to hear about it. He and Maria flew up from their home in Santiago, Chile. Ifyour company does business in Chile, Carol is a very good person to know, since he is a managing director in the Chilean Trade Office. As always, if you would like to get in touch with him in advance of a visit, perhaps call me and I can provide contact information.

One guy who didn’t get to the Reunion was Jack REHO. He is changing careers after he and Mary Ann spent a year and a half in London. This was not the best possible time to change companies, so if any of you guys know of a CFO, controller or treasurer position open, let me know and I will pass it on to Jack. I would guess that you don’t need the help, Jack, but asking friends to keep their eyes open is kind of like chicken soup. As an old sage once said, “It can’t hurt.”

The only local news I’ve had since the chapter meeting is that Tom RACKLEY was elected as an elder in his church.

JD McBriety, the groom, PatPaglin, andJim Shay.

One last addition: I had mentioned Jim and Gina LAKE’S wedding last year, and some of the photos that J.D. MCBRIETY sent were on the Class website. Since most of you didn’t get to the site before the first edition went away, here is a photo of Jim and some friends. GBA.

Bob Bell

13 Pacific Ave.

Sinking Spring, PA 19608 (610) 678-3182/Fax: 678-4513

E-mail: rabell767@aol.com

(Editor’s Note: BobBellpassed the ClassNews section over to Ralph “Buzz" Allen, the Class ofl972 30th Reunion Committee Chairman, for updates on the upcomingevent.)

Greetings to all fellow ‘72ers. By the time this issue of Checkpoints is published, there should be quite a few of you sitting back with a cold one, working on your golf games, and collecting 30-year AF retirement checks. Speaking of 30 years, the decision was made to use this issue of Checkpoints to help get the word out on our 30-year reunion this fall. Two of the reunion’s objectives this year are to try and reach as many classmates as possible and subsequently have a record turnout for this milestone event. Your reunion committee along with the AOG is working hard to make our 30th both a memorable and enjoyable experience. We need your help in reaching as many folks as possible and encouraging fellow classmates and widows to join in. Based on initial response, we are off to a good start.

To recap, the reunion will be 16-21 Oct 2002 with many of the social functions and activities centered at our reunion hotel - Adam’s Mark Antlers in downtown Colo Spgs. Other significant events include the AFA vs. Notre Dame football game on Saturday which promises to be an exciting televised sellout. Friday’s key activities include the infamous golf tournament on Eisenhower’s Blue Course where Doug HILL is looking

Class of 1972 - 30th Reunion

USAFA vs. Notre Dame

17-20 October 2002

for help in obtaining prizes from any possible corporate donations, the memorial service/class paver dedication at the chapel and Doolittle Hall, and the evening class dinner at the Antlers. Thursday events include a cadet area open house as well as lunch with the cadets at Mitch’s. The entire schedule of events is in your mailing. Simply stated, the reunion will be a great opportunity to renew friendships, catch up on old times, swap war stories, and have a great time.

Registration forms, hotel registration, activity sheets, merchandise order forms, and the latest schedule of events will be mailed out the end of May. Please return the forms ASAP to help us get an early indication of attendance; also, some events such as golf and lunch with the cadet wing will be limited. Remember that the latest news can be found on our class web site (www.aog-usafa.org/1972/) as well as the AOG home page (www.aog-usafa.org). Your reunion committee members can be found on the web site and seek your input and feedback to make the 30th our best yet. See you at the reunion. Go Air Force. Kick some Irish butt! (Ralph “Buzz"Allen)

Dan 0’ Hollaren

19803 Derby St

West Linn, OR 97068

H: (503) 657-0299

W: (503) 667-8554

E-mail: danoh73@attbi.com

Greetings and welcome to the continuation of my Winter column. As promised, I am continuing the inputs I received just after Christmas, with a few new updates thrown in.

Mike HAY is herding the 747 for Northwest out ofAnchorage but makes his home with wife, April (26 years!), and two of three sons in Mission Viejo, CA. Seems April is an accomplished magazine editor. Son Steve is an EE/Comp Sci major at RPI in NewYork on a NROTC scholarship with, as Mike says, a CPA “twice what mine was”. Mike ran into Norty SCHWARTZ in Alaska and was duly impressed with the time he took to chat. Passed on that Terry GRAYBEAL is an ANG commander in Alaska Guard, Bob and Janet SCHINELLER are in Illinois when he’s not steering 767’s across the pond for American, and fellow CS-18 classmates Kirk LILLY, Eric VOGEL and Dennis “Goose” GEESAMAN are with Southwest. Mike finished his update with a challenge: says his A-Jacket still fits! Jack CHRISTENSEN answered the challenge bysaying his fits too... just doesn’t fit him! Jack is in Vancouver, WA and flying for Northwest out of Honolulu. Son David (USAFA ‘99) was the only US DG out of UPT at Sheppard and training at Tyndall, now, in the F-15C. Daughter Julie is getting ready to matriculate from U-Dub in Seattle and join the “dot-commers” as a Comp Sci major. He ran into Gary VECHIK in Minneapolis. Mark FERRIS also answered the A-Jacket challenge, saying he still has it and when he puts it on, he makes a great impression as a stuffed sausage. Mark’s in Madison, CT with bride, Jean, plus two Labradors, a cat and a fish named Bill. Passed on hellos from fellow Dirty-Dozen classmates John “Spaceman” PACE and Neil “Razz” RASMUSSEN.

Jim HEIRONOMUS retired from the AF medical corps and is in Columbus, OH teaching high school science. Wife, Terri, is a nurse specialist, daughters Jessica and Amanda are, respectively, in North Carolina and the University of Cincinnati, and son Jimmy is at home. Tom BUTLER is flying the 747 for Atlas Air while living with bride, Leslie, in Rockville MD. DaughterJ Lee is expecting a grandbaby; son Brian is an E-5 at Elmendorf, and son Patrick is in Dallas. Drop Tom a line ifyou need a little R&R rental place just north of Kitty Hawk, NC... but remember it’s BYOB. Updates passed on are Mike WENGER in Fairfax Station, VA and Maj Gen Jeff KOHLER back from Korea and at Bolling AFB. Kent BUCHANAN still in Chicago as a Motorola VP/GM with Diane and daughter Lindsay.

Mike TREMONTE and spouse, Sue, of 25 years are with Exxon-Mobil Oil in the D.C. area. Sue is a first grade teacher extraordinaire! Daughter Mary Elizabeth graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Carnegie-Mellon and now in Pittsburgh; son Christopher will graduate this year in Comp Sci. Twins Jon and Matt are attending Virginia Tech and James Madison, respectively. Updates include Grover STEIN, a Northwest captain living in Doyleston, PA and Randy O’DELL who owns a CE Company in central California. Mike passed on memories of him and Mike HAY tearing around Charleston, SC in Mike’s Corvette! Robert MARSH is “between gigs” in Aurora, CO while wife, Deb, is a mental health therapist in Denver. Son Justin and daughter Kelly are both headed for the Navy.

Bill HEELY is in Hampton, VA working for TRW; says he isn’t buying the A-Jacket claim by Mike HAY! Son Dan graduated from Virginia Tech and is headed for AF OTS. Daughters Sarah and Kate are a junior at Virginia Tech and a senior in high school, respectively; son Jim is bringing up the rear as an eighth grader. Bill’s bride of 25-plus years, Ann, is teaching at the kids’ school. Updates include Charlie CHILDRESS, seen regularly at church, and Chuck BRAMMEIER flying Cessna execs around. Bob “BG”

GILBERT retired in ‘96 as a RED EIORSE squadron commander and is VP of Aviation Services for URS, now.

Mike MOSIER, a member of the “Loose Hogs”, wrote on his dream assignments. The NATO Defense College in Rome, EUCOM in Stuttgart, and then JCS Rep to the U.S. Mission to the OSCE in Vienna aren’t bad! He is now with TASC, an engineering firm in the “Springs”. Son Drew is in his fourth year at Texas A&M, daughter Lauren and son Chris are at UNC. Spouse, Sandra, is back in the job world after a 20-year layoff. Updates from Mike include Bob MUNSON as the AF senior pilot-physician consultant on the Air Staff, Maj Gen Steve LORENZ running the USAF budget show, Skip SANDERS directing theACMI at Tyndall, and Dick HALFAST retired in Indiana.

John ROLSEN wrote about his post-retirement adventures as a B&B innkeeper with his wife, Julie, in Hannibal, MO. Says he always wanted to live in a mansion and entertain company every night! Son Jeff is a 3rd degree in CS-18 and son Sean is still in high school. Eric ANDERMANN and bride Liz are living in the “Springs”.

Mike NISHIMUTA is in San Antonio with wife, Catherine, on an “Osama Bin Laden vacation”, aka airline furlough. Fil THORN is a retired 0-6 livingwith Kim in Glendale AZ, teaching F-16 academics at Luke. RodTHIEL, with bride, Amy, and golden lab Sarah, is residing in Conifer, CO and plotting his escape from Phillips Petroleum. Richard FLAYES retired in June as Det Commander in SMC and now working in Charleston SC for AAI. Passes on that Phil FAYE is at Hanscom AFB. Dick FICKES is a Sr. Logistics Engineer with SI Int’l in the Springs with spouse, Shari. Daughter Kimberley turns 21 this year. Dale WILLIAMS still flying the 757/767 for Delta and occasionally runs into Bob PALING in Nashua, NH. Paul FREUND is in the D.C. area with Scitor. He & wife Jane, an American flight attendant, were in the air on September 11 th on their way to Germanyvia DFW- for a Recce Reunion. Turned out to be a great vacation in Texas! Passes on sightings in the area ofJohn PRETZ, SamTORREY, Drew SMITH, George TOTA, Joe SOVEY and John BARRY. Boyd LEASE is retired in Melbourne, FL and is now a “sleazy vendor” for ENSCO, Inc. Wanted to right a grievous error from the last issue: Bob EAMES is flying for USAir out of the D.C. area. Also, Paul GUTTMAN is a newly retired transplant to Florida and starting a second career. Bill GILLIN is herding DC-10s for FedEx and hauling lots of U.S. Mail. Also sees Rich FAZIO, Phil CHERRY, Tom REAM, Jeff BROWN, Mike HARMON and Steve DRETAR. Barry SCHEINHOST and wife, Susanne Camille, are suffering through summers and winters in Nebraska while contemplating going back with the Army hovering helicopters over cornfields. He is assisting the state’s airports with planning/construction when he’s not arm-twisting Jay BEARD to fly his seaplane.

BJ STANTON and bride, Donna, are retired in Colorado, consulting and managing the Western U.S. for Sprint. Son Spencer has graduated from Purdue. Son Stuart (USAFA ‘01) is picking up his master’s in astro at MIT. Charlie CLATTERBAUGH is working as a SETA support contractor for the Air Staff. As a Senior Military Scientist, he is doing major war-gaming. His son Chad is recently engaged and living at home. Charlie wanted to put a plug in for the Sabre Society and challenge all ‘73ers.

Peter UNDERWOOD is driving MD-80s for American. Peter is strongly encouraging classmates to get on board with his Reach For Tomorrow program, bringing high school freshman to the service academies and other universities as a motivator towards excellence. Website at www.reachfortomorrow.org. Kirk SAMELSON and bride, Betty, are in Colorado Springs with daughters Kate and Molly attending Air Academy High School. Sons Matt, Scott and Mike are, respectively, freelance sports writing out of Lake Tahoe, Outward Bounding in Costa Rica and studying at CSU.

Mike and Sara MAGNUSSON are now at Randolph AFB where he is chief of AETC Aerospace Physiology. Looking to retire in ‘03. Win HINDS forwarded a new email address. Joe KAHOE updated MGen DonWETEKAM’s new assignment as commander, Warner-Robins ALC. Roger WINBURG is a USAF chaplain at Wright-Pat. Roger sent a brief email from somewhere near the Mideast action and was very upbeat on the morale of the troops and how appreciative they are of support from the home front. He forwarded a photo ofCraig LADY“holding court” there while deployed with the PA ANG as an EC-130 driver. Ken VOLKMAN and spouse, Debi, are in Dayton, OH, with adopted daughter Katie, now four years old. Ken is flying for UPS out of Louisville as well as tankers for OH ANG. John and Susan WIGINGTON wrote from Alabama that they are adapting well to

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND

CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED.

CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

AF retirement. Passed on a long epistle from Bruce BENNETT, another recent retiree. Seems Bruce has found his way to Bulgaria on a six-month junket with a company called MPRI helping the government reorganize the military. Playing golf in “cow pastures” and learning the Bulgarian form of the Russian language are keeping him busy while Nancy keeps the home fires burning in Oklahoma City.

CraigLadysomewhere in the Mideast.

Well, once again I have exhausted my allotted space. Another plug for Sam GRIER’s request to recruit a 30-year reunion chairman. His strong recommendation is that it be someone in the Colorado Springs area, strictly from a logistics standpoint. Take care, be safe this summer, and we’ll see you in football season. AMF & Check Six!

Joe Brezovic

1209 Bayou Oaks Drive Friendswood, TX 77546

H: (281) 482-6860

0: (281) 244-8325/Fax: (281) 244-8909

E-mail: jbrezl@prodigy.net or joseph.brezovicl@jsc.nasa.gov

Class of 74 March 2002 Joe Brezovic

Good Day Classmates and Readers! A few notes and thoughts to pass on to the avid reader as you peruse Checkpoints! The first welcomed note comes from proud parents Larry and Connie KAMPA. “My daughter Colleen received and accepted an appointment to USAFA Class of 2006 enteringJune 27,2002. Guess now I won’t have any excuses for staying away from USAFA. Connie (mywife) and I are very proud ofColleen’s accomplishment.” Larry flies for American Airlines as a Captain on the B-777. He has been with American for 18 years, and flies from the Miami crew base to South America. Connie is a fourth grade teacher in the local school district in the south suburbs of Chicago, Orland Park. For those interested in yesteryear memories, Larry and Connie dated for four years while Larry was at the Academy. They were married at our Chapel three days after graduation. It is kind of hard for Connie to believe it has been almost 28 years since graduation and that she will now have both a husband and daughter who are zoomies.

Another note from Larry: “It wasn’t until after we were airborne on the night of Sept. 20lh flight 943, on the way to Buenos Aires from Miami, that Larry KAMPA et all realized they had an entirely zoomie crew in the cockpit. The photo was taken in NewYork at the conclusion of flight 956, Sept. 22nd from Buenos Aires to JFK. The Aircraft is an American Airlines Boeing 777. All cockpit crewmembers are Miami based flying to South America.

The all-zoomieAmericanAirlines crewfrom leftis CaptainLarryKampa, ‘74; First OfficerMark Modrich, ‘75; and First OfficerJohn Dahl, '81.

Isn’t this great show and tell? Send us your photos! Help us recognize what you look like now as we continue to develop and nurture our AFA

network! I actually know two of'em. Thank you Larry, Mark and John for sending this one it!

Bill CASEMENT sent in a late but very acceptable Christmas letter, postmarked 14 January. Then again, that’s still early for us who missed sending any out! Terry continues as orchestra director for two middle schools and their daughters Marie and Janice work in Houston and Boston. Bill has had several trips to Japan/Singapore/Bermuda, through Diego Garcia, Bahrain, England and Ireland. Later, after the familyjob placements, Bill swept through Guam, Germany, Cyprus, Mexico, Macedonia and Oman. He doesn’t own up to having postcards, but they do have a bag full of foreign currency! One of Bill’s visits included partner Terry in a Hawaiian trek visiting with Frank and Linda BREWER. Bill also remembers a New Year’s Eve party with Tom and Val HALSETH. They still have the Texas Invite to come on down whenever!

Time out for an advertisement: The USAFA Prep School is having a Fall 2002 reunion. Marty Marcolongo, ’88, is the coordinator. There’s an email package. Write me or the AOG if you’re interested.

Remember Rick Broome? He painted a few pictures for our class in the past. They were aT-41 over the airfield, aT-33 over the Rockies and aT-29 landing at Pete Field. Rick has been commissioned by the Red Tag class of‘02 to create their official class painting. The first class to commission an official class painting was the Redtags of 1974! Our class color was red

Remember those days? I still have the red robe. The red blanket has some holes in it... somewhere. I think the dog finally became owner of it after pulling it off the Mustang.

Still moving around the country is Dave HOGLUND. Charlene writes in that Dave has accepted a job at Edwards Air Force Base in California and (he) moved there in mid-February. He will be working for MTSI (Modern Technology Solutions, Inc) as a military avionics flight test consultant. He is very excited about the new position. That moves the family at the end of the school year from Seattle, (I think). The family will probably live in the Palmdale/Lancaster area. They’ve invited us to stop by enroute to the desert or to Disneyland!

I know Dave DALEY is still in the D.C. area. Tony BROZENA is still in Albuquerque. I see that Charles JUSTIZ is in the Webster area (by the Johnson Space Center) in Houston, TX. The only other changes that I know of are mine. My Reserve duty is now in the Kelly Field out the back door of Lackland AFB, TX. It is only 225 miles instead ofthe long drive to Robins AFB, GA that I had to do. I work with the DLA unit that is in charge of the N204 (dinitrogen tetroxide) which is used to fuel the Space Shuttle and other missile launches. One related visit was to Vicksburg, MS to work on an exercise: one-day prep; one-day briefs; one-day rail exercise; one-day highway; one-:day drive back. While there, I took the walk and drive around the National Park/Battlefield. Among the many grave sites, monuments, mementoes, and the ironclad Cairo, there were thoughts and figures displayed for the interested. One sign particularly caught my eye, but the memory did not keep the figures: Confederates over 9,300 buried. Union: over 10,200 buried. Such a walk, in our own homeland makes one pause to ponder how hard it was for any one of them ...May we continue to defend our Constitution so that the our heritage of Freedom can be enjoyed by our kinfolk and country... and that other countries may do likewise. May each ofyou and yours live long and prosper.

Jeff Hackett

2610 E. Stottler Drive

Gilbert, AZ 85296

H: (480) 558-8703

W: (480) 988-9773 X434

E-mail: jhackett75@cox.net

TOUCHED BY ANOTHER DOT-COM FAILURE. I’m going to blame the unplanned change in my e-mail address (see above) for the unprecedented lack of inputs for this very short column. Of course the @Home boys went belly up last Fall but were held together just long enough to allow for a jump-through-your-behind address change right afterthe last column went to press. Being a Pollyannaish sort of guy, I’ll imagine that y’all sent all sorts ofinteresting news and images that are now swept into a corner in a rat-infested building in Silicon Valley. Anthrax or not (notice how that one went away!) I guess we’ll have to think about using USPS or the telephone more. It’s actually a good time for a short column as civilian and JJSAFR jobs are filling my days and nights more than I’d like at a time of year in Arizona when there are far better things to be doing than sitting in front of the computer.

AH, THOSE RELAXED SOUTH AMERICAN CUSTOMS. I hadn’t previously realized that they celebrate Christmas one-month later in BoliviaChuck and Roxanne HOLLAND’S Christmas letter got to me in late January. Having said that I’ll immediately apologize since it wouldn’t do to be having such serious thoughts about paying a visit to my old roommate while making light of how busy they are (that and ifyou measured

the Christmas timetable by my Holiday cards, you’d conclude that Christmas is celebrated every six years or so!). Anyway, it sounds like they’re having a wonderful time in every way - “best job in a 26-year (so far) career.” Roxanne’s taken a part-time job in the Embassy, Assistant Community Liaison Office Coordinator, and they’ve traveled quite a bit. And they’ve entertained a number of “back home” visitors.... hmmm.

Also acknowledging snail-mail correspondence from another former roommate, Mike BUCKLEY. No real news to pass along-just shared some personal viewpoints that I happened to agree with, so it made for a nice read and, given that it was one fifth of the communications I received from ya’ll, I wanted to say thanks for writing Mike.

DON’T BLINK. Yes, that’s the end of the column you see coming. After we had Jim CARLSON update my address on the class website, the emails began to trickle back in. A short update from Dennis BROOKS in Tennessee: he’s teaching model rocketry one day a week now at one of the local high schools. Also heard from the Scott ITAMMOND, Lee COLBURN, and Steve HUSSEY, triumphant as they were readying for a ski trip to Dillon, CO. There were promises made about pictures being sent. Finally, after a series of back-and-forth emails, I’m expecting to see Bill MURRAY tomorrow morning (mid March) when he comes to WilliamsGatewayAirport to briefdignitaries on the T-38 Mod Program run by Bill’s directorate but executed here in Arizona.

NOT YOUR MOST AUTHORITATIVE SOURCE. A couple of General Officer Announcement messages came through my USAFR email box in January with names I recognized (although it worries me that I may not be getting all such announcements and/or my comparison to our class roster is certainly subject to error.). A1 PECK has pinned on a first star and I also picked Joe STEIN’s name out on the two-star nominations list. If I missed anyone I apologize.

CONFUSED AGAIN. It's fairly disorienting to be penning my adieu and admonishing all to keep in mind that it’s later than you might think, while the sun is coming up; but that’s just the way life’s been lately. Call, write, e-mail, or visit if you get the chance!

Ernie Woollard

216 E. Goettler St.

Scott AFB, IL 62225-1710

H: (618) 744-1044 W: (618) 256-7948

E-mail: evw76@aol.com

Work e-mail: Ernest.Woollard@scott.af.mil

Class Website:http://www.AFAcademy.com/76

Hello Fellow ‘76ers,

Hopefully wherever you are, winter has now ended, and the spring has arrived with abundant sunshine, warmth, and promise for a wonderful summer. Here at Scott we were fortunate to have a very mild winter once again, no snow days or blizzard conditions to disrupt the massive mobility operation supporting the War on Terror. Since 911, USTRANSCOM, HQ AMC, and TACC have been “joined at the hip” working constantly round-the-clock to support our warfighting operations in Central and Southwest Asia and the Philippines. To date, the command has moved over 60,000 warfighters and 125,000 tons of their cargo... quite an accomplishment! I’m sure that for most of us still connected to the DoD, Operation ENDURING FREEDOM is at the top of our daily activities sheet.

SteveStoutdoes a little wishful thinking (notice:Pegasusis stillgrounded) at our 25th Reunion in November.

With the war effort now demanding a greater majority of our time, it’s easy to understand why this update is somewhat brief. Jeff LARSON, now several-years-retired from active duty and his teaching position at the Academy, is settled permanently in Colorado Springs. He’s actively engaged with SIAC as a contractor, and just recently was here at Scott attending a conference to discuss transportation and strategic mobility issues. The Larson family is doing fine; it sure was fun discussing UPT memories with Jeff at the recent colonels’ promotion party at the Scott Club.

Russ LANEY has moved across the Academy from his position in the Athletic Department to a new position in the AOG. I’m not exactly sure of Russ’ new responsibilities, but I sure hope he has nothing to do with correcting my article’s “gramar, spellin, or punchewacion.” Mike FRICANO has stayed busy on the conference circuit. In early lanuary he ran into Larry “Bubba” NEW (a new BG select and the ACC/DR) and TS KELSO (AFSPC/XPY) at the AF Modeling & Simulation General Officer Steering Group in Washington, DC. Then in February, he ran into Norm WEINBERG (AF/XPXC) at the CSAF’s Futures Game Hot Wash. Later that same month at the AF Data & Model Steering Group meeting, Mike ran across TS againwith John ANDREW (Department ofOperational Sciences at AFIT) and Doug “Kupe” KUPERSMITH (Data Research and Analysis Corp.). Mike reports all are doing well and enjoying life!

time

had byall... Georgiana

In the “Movers and Shakers” category this time: MGen (Sel) Kevin CHILTON will become Director, Programs, Deputy Chief of Staff, Plans and Programs, HQ USAF, Pentagon, Washington, DC; BGen William “Willie” SHELTON will become Director, Plans and Programs, Headquarters Air Force Space Command, Peterson AFB, CO; BGen Tony PRZYBYSLAWSKI will become the Assistant Director of Aerospace Operations, Headquarters Air Combat Command, Langley AFB, VA; and Col Byron HEPBURN will become Surgeon General, USEUCOM, StuttgartVaihingen, Germany. Also, special congratulations to MGen Selects Mike GOULD and Mark WELSH. Wow!

On the lighter side of things; after about six years ofwriting (and missing my deadline about half the time), the time has come for me to “pass this baton” to another aspiring author. Dan BEATTYwill assume the role of‘76 Scribe later this year after he returns from a 90-day tour in the AEF “sandbox.” I’ll continue to provide updates for the remainder ofthis year; he’ll probably do the first article following the Christmas Holiday. Be kind, and please continue to share your experiences with Dan in the same positive manner that you have done with me. I’ll be here at Scott through Spring 2004, always ready to lend Dan a helping hand. It has certainly been a pleasure these past years representing our Spirit of ‘76 in Checkpoints. Thanks for the wonderful opportunity; fly safe! ERNIE

John J “Lou” Michels, Jr.

■■-•mSa7. t 5107 Juglan Court Centreville, VA 22020

H: (703) 802-6611 W: (703) 712-5350

Fax; (703) 712-5050

E-Mail: jjmichel@mwbb.com

OPENING STATEMENT: As I write this the plans are moving forward for our 25th Reunion on the weekend of October 5th at the Blue Zoo. For entertainment, instead of the usual Mountain West opponent, Air Force will be playing Navy for part of the CINC’s trophy. So you now have no reason not to mark that weekend on the calendar and make immediate reservations. Although we don’t have a Reunion Committee Chair as of yet, by the time this hits the streets I expect us to be fully staffed and charging ahead. Please make the effort to come to the show, ifyou can. I can speak for everyone who was at the 20th Reunion when I say that it was a wonderful four days especially since the class scribe gets enough “dirt” on everyone to keep the column going for another year or two.

E-MAII.BAG: Don BRUBAKER (Char) continues working for the SecDef at the National Security Space Architect office. Horst ROEHLER (Mary) continues to work at Lockheed Martin in the Springs, but has now moved out to lovely Elbert, CO next to the Kelly Air Park off Colorado State Highway 15. Horst notes that he has taken on a “mistress” that occupies most of his free time. See photo.

There are all kinds of horrible double entendre remarks that I could make here about staying up and improved lift coefficients, but this is, after all, a family publication. I’ll leave you with the advice that I had

from my brief sailplane experience - keep the noise-level constant and the piece of yarn in the center of the windscreen.

John VISSER (Marianne) fired me this photo from the North Texas Parents Club meeting where John works as an ALO.

From left are Marty COFFMAN (Lee), Commander ofthe 34th TG at the Zoo, Chuck and Terry SPITLER, who have a rookie at the Zoo in Marty and Chuck’s old squadron, CS-28 and, on the far right, our Class web master himself, John. There are plenty ofdangerous things that can happen when former roommates such as Chuck and Marty get together with spouses. During the Q&A in front of the parents’ group, Terry raised her hand and asked Marty, as Chuck’s former roommate, to compare notes with her, Chuck’s current roommate. Specifically, did Chuck snore when he roomed with Marty? Marty graciously (or intelligendy) said that he couldn’t remember. On a related note, Chuck is flying and snoring, for Delta out of DFW.

Got a great and detailed message from Tony ZYCH (Laura). Tony is one of my favorite people if for no other reason that his name appears at the very end of the roster in the AOG directory. Tony and Laura retired three years ago from a series of great assignments that included Edwards working on rocket propellants, then to EWI at Kodak and then on to the National Reconnaisance Office, followed by a tour at the Maui Optical Station doing space surveillance and fending off visitors, and then finishing up working for NSA at the NRO again. Tony is working for TASC now at the NRO, doing some very neat and very secret stuffthat he had the good sense not to put in the email. The biggest surprise for me was when I looked at Tony’s address and realized that we were in the same Zip Code! That’s the trouble with the D.C. area - although there are lots of us here, we all move in our own little circles. Tony and Laura have settled in pretty well there, with their two daughters and a job he really enjoys. Thanks for the wonderful message, Tony, and I promise to drive by sometime soon.

Bill BRANDT (Susan) dropped me a quick note with a warning. Bill noted that since he got promoted to Colonel in the Reserves, he believes it is a clear sign of the “end times.” I don’t know if that is the last field grade promotion for the Class, as Bill claims, but congratulations all around anyway. Emmett “ET” TULLIA (Dyan) let me know that he and Dyan retired in 1997 from Kunsan, where he was flying the F-16 all the way to the end of his career. He is a pilot now for Southwest and he and Dyan are foster parents for infant children and workingthrough an adoption agency. Good for you guys and my very best wishes with your retirement and foster parenthood.

Finally, Mark CASTELLANI (Susan) reports that he has a plebe at USNA

And a good

was

and Mike Kelly Sheila and Randy Roth, Joanne and Cliff Smith, Harry and Melinda DeBruhl, and Steve Stout enjoy the reunion dinner. (Photo byMike Friland.)

Mark noted that he was amazed at all of the alumni gifts that he saw at Annapolis when he visited there, which spurred him to “take out my checkbook again” for our own AOG. I’m with you there, Mark, a review of what the association is able to do for the cadets shows a lot ofgood comes from those dollars. Mark keeps bumping into Chip LAMB (Trish) when theyget together to go skiing, as well as his next door neighborTom SPATT (Leslie). Tom is a 747-400 Standards Captain with United. Mark flew right seat for Jim DUGAN (Lynn) on the Airbus and ran into Dave STEPHAN (Cynthia) during their travels around the Denver airport.

SNAIL MAIL: Ina BEDKE dropped me a lengthy note from Barksdale, where she and Curt are shepherding the 2d Bomb Wing. It’s been an interesting year for the Bedkes, punctuated by a no-notice visit from the President of the U.S. when he dropped in on September 11 on his way to Offutt. Air Force One was on the ground two hours while Curt escorted the President wherever the President wanted to go. Since then, Curt shipped off to Egypt for Bright Star as the on-scene commander for over 50,000 people, followed by a quick out-and-back to Diego Garcia to meet and greet his troops on the front lines. Here is hoping the New Year is a little calmer for both of you.

Following up my Toby NICHOLS (Ann) saga, and finally locatingToby’s card, he reports that he is flying the DC-9, has a fifth grade daughter, a sixth grade son, a wife with a law license, another daughter with her own daughter, and another son in college. All this comes from Minnesota, where he pushes metal for Northwest. Tom and Liz JONES are now safely settled in NorthernVirginia, just down the road from me (andTony). Tom’s first book The Complete Idiot’s Guide to NASA has just been published; he recommended it to me for some reason. Paul and Mary PIROG are at Scott, where Paul is the Mobility Command SJA; he’s awaiting an assignment while his daughters head to college throughout the Big Ten (well, Illinois, mainly). Paul is again expecting an assignment, this time I hope I don’t jinx it for him like I did the last time I announced it. I’ve got my fingers crossed, Colonel.

CLOSEOUT: That’s it from NOVA. I hope spring has been good to all of you and that the graduations went well. Please send me some news/ gossip/rumor/outright falsehoods for the next column so that I can continue my high standards of journalistic excellence. Be seeing you.

T. J. “Bahaska” Whitehair

1205 Southview Drive O’Fallon, IL 62269 (618) 632-1423

E-mail: Bahaska@intertek.net

Lord ofthe Rings: Return now to the realm ofMiddle Earth where trolls, hobbits, fairies, pixies and dark forces exist. A time ofgreat turmoil, where the evil of the dark castle of the mountainous, arid region rules the land and controls every living thing for leagues around. Time now for a hero to emerge, a young hobbit with his “precious” ring to contest for the realm against the evil of the foreboding castle. His arduous trip, while allied with forces of good, will be long, hard and filled with many sacrifices. But, he will adapt, overcome, and through superior motivation, extreme hostility, and adept agility: he will survive and WIN. Surrender yourself to the world leader and fellow ‘78er, BG Glenn “Hobbit” SPEARS.

Cruising on a Sunday Afternoon: Dennis PARK, Barry BINGHAM, and Dave DALLAGO, while full of hot air normally, put that air to good use at the Red Rock Balloon Rally at Red Rocks State Park near Gallup, NM. While not a big as Albuquerque’s mega-balloon spectacular, it was fun, exciting and calm. Dennis noted that one balloon was adorned with a patriotic banner showing the United States Flag with the words “God Bless America”. It’s reported that Barry still flies quite well in spite of the fact that his last “REAL” balloon flying was with the Cadet Balloon Club in 1977 and 1978. In other more important and enlarging news, “Pete” PARK is trying for the oldest grad/dad award as his wife is pregnant and expects to give birth to a USAFA-sized boy (my guess) sometime in July. He hears (incorrectly of course) that the class pays for the first two years of college for the oldest grad/dad baby birth. In any event, CONGRATULATIONS and boat load of Huggies are headed your way. But, the key question is, is this a result of the mile high balloon club? I’ll never tell.

Sarge Sighting: BG “Stunning Steve” SARGEANT was reported in an issue of the Retired Officer magazine giving a certificate to the Luke Chapter of TROA commemorating the chapter’s win in the national TROA recruiting contest. And you thought he only kissed babies.

Hair or not to Hair: When approached at the last Graduate Memorial service, and asked, “Is that Taco GILBERT with gray hair?” he adeptly doffed his flight cap and said, “No, it’s Taco GILBERT with NO hair”. Yes, even generals occasionally have a sense of humor.

Working at the Car Wash: Well, not exactly, but Jim ARNOLD finally found a job after commuting to Colorado Springs. He’s on the faculty of

the University of Phoenix teaching in their Criminal Justice Program that he’s developing for Colorado Community Colleges on-line. Ah, distancelearning, the wave ofthe future. He reports he’s been re-elected Assistant Secretary to the Secretary of the Waterboy underlying the Chief Execufive for the Pikes Peak Chapter of the Retired Officer’s Association (actually the assistant secretary only). Also, in critical news, his family just joined him in Colorado (after six months) from Maryland since he didn’t want to take both boys (in gifted programs) out of school in the middle of the semester. So, celibacy is over, eh Jim?

Going to the Chapel and Going to Get Married: Brian LIVIE’s son was to be married to his school sweetheart, Colleen Crowley, on April 20,2002 at the USAF Chapel. Afterwards, his son reported to MoodyAFB for some of that pilot stuff, but hopefully they will make time for a honeymoon first. Hey Grandpa, better get ready for those grandkids.

Reminder: For all you AOGers, a reminder to update your biographies (which can be done on-line through the AOG), especially in the area of email addresses. It helps for others to find you. Recently, I helped Mark WYNN find Tom “Tits” TWOHIG for a mini-reunion of soccer moms, excuse me, dads. Roll brown tide!

Quote of the Day: “This is the AK-47, the preferred weapon ofyour enemy, and it makes a distinct sound when fired at you”, from Heartbreak Ridge aka Gunny Thomas Highway (Clint Eastwood).

John “J.R.” Dallas 1612 Rannoch Trace Fort Smith, AR 72908 (479) 648-0433

E -mail:

John.Dallas@arftsm.ang.af.mil

‘79ers, welcome! I hope that all is well with everyone. It seems as if it was onlyyesterday that I was writing the article for the 2001 issue. Thanks in advance to all those that wrote with news to pass along. I only wish I had more room to include all your news items, but the word police are counting!! Sit back and enjoy! News from my home front I am on a two-year leave from AAL and pulling a tour as the 188FW/CC in Ft Smith, AR. What a fantastic job! Steve MATHEWS (AAL MIA) and better half Caroline celebrated the change of command with Daren and me. Loved having them here. John NICHOLS recently became the 149FW/CC at Kelly AFB. Guy WALSH writes that he is at Ft Lewis, WA as the I Corps ALO and Cmdr ofthe 1 st ASOG (Air Support Group) working the new digitized Army function. A1 ALFARO writes that he is a “chief scientist” working programs at Boeing Satellite Systems in California. He and Lucy sing in the gospel choir at church. He says that Willie BENITEZ (UAL, LAX) just bought a Beech Bonanza and loves it! Tells all to be careful out there.

Chas RUTH (DAL, LAX) remains a California slug. Wife and girls are great. W.T. JACKSON lives and works in Chicago as a senior consultant for Acclivus Corporation developing sales strategy and consulting for Fortune 500 companies. Wife of two years, Pamela, and kids now (16 and 3 months). Congrats!

Mike Brill writes that he is still at Hill AFB flying F16s for the Reserves full time technician. When he’s not flying, he’s skiing or horseback riding. Mike says that Tom WINGO (DAL) now lives in Indiana; Mike PEPLINSKI is doing great as the OG/CC at Selfridge ANG, MI; Joe SOLLARS now lives in Seattle; and that Frank HENDERSON is a civil engineer in Phoenix. Thanks, Mike. Stop by FSM for gas any time!!

Byron CALHOUN writes that he still works at Ft Lewis as the token AF guy in the green world. He will soon join the “non-active” ranks as he retires to a civilian job but will stay in the Reserves as an IMA. Seems his medical school commitment ain’t quite up. Kids are doing great and says he’ll see all at the 30th! Thanks, Byron. Dale BURTON (UAL 737) writes that he and family are living in Castle Rock working on that basement bar. Ready for all ‘79ers passing thru. Says that Paul DIAMOND just moved to Perry Park. Thanks, Dale I actually like writing this thing!

Dave ‘Sunshine’ HARTLEY (AAL 737CA) writes that he’s still in ORD; that Gary CURRY is still in Denver; that Jan JOUAS (AF COL) and Ken KRAAK (SWA) are both in the D.C. area; and that Brian ENGLISH (SWA MCO) lives down in Florida. Thanks, Dave! Ed DUBICKI relays that he’s an A300 CA with an eye on the tail be careful!! Says he is involved w/ the American Legion Aviator’s Post. Gary NICHOLS (DAL 767) wrote from Phoenix where he, wife and two kids are loving life. Enjoys the golf, skiing and hiking staying in Arizona for good.

Jim GENTEMANN sent a long email, so hang on. Thanks, Jim! You make this job easy. Jim says that he’s the Chief, 11AF Airspace and Ranges (611 AOS) at Elmendorf. Flew F15Es before the staff called. Family loves the place. Just waiting for Stop Loss to end. Passes along that Mark TURBERVILLE works down the hall - 11AF Safety for three years but now with Alaska NORAD. Mark, Patricia, and Caitlin plan on retiring there and they love the place. Don JUREWICZ is also there at Elmendorf as

theOG/CC. George DIJDA is the 3540G/CC at EielsonAFB. ErvLESSEL is at Ramstein AB as the USAFE/ADO Directorate of Aerospace. Keith ABBOT is living in Colorado and visited Jim for a little R&R salmon fishing awhile back. Tom FERNANDEZ and wife, Sue, live in California, as Tom commands an Army reserve unit. Rob GORDON resides in San Antonio. Ron HORTON was last seen flying for Atlas out ofAlaska. Jim, that moose never had a chance with that M-l Garand of yours! Nice shot. Thanks for the letter.

Tom TALBOT has enjoyed the good life these past fewyears up inWashington State. Oldest is soon off to college and son right behind her. Tom and LeAnn spend a lot of time at their cabin in Idaho beautiful place! I still want to visit! Tom says that he saw Brian KOCHEL recently. Brian works for an aerospace company up there. See ya, Tom. Be good.

I saw John WAGNER in D.C. on one of my many trips to the National Guard Bureau. He was going to SWAirlines but opted at the last minute to go with FedEx. Should be out of training as of this press time. John says that Steve HOOG is the FW/CC at Hill AFB - active duty. Also relays that Harry WHITING (FedEx) is living in sunny Florida now; that Denny HUGO (SWA CA) lives in Phoenix; and that Legrande BLOUNT (DAL) lives somewhere in Texas he thinks.

Bill BARRY wrote an email and relays that he finally retired and moved to Virginia where he works for NASA as the Russia desk officer in the Office of External Relations, Human Space Flight Division as he deals with policy issues relating to space travel - remember Dennis Tito?. Bill passes that Mark PIMENTEL recently moved back to beautiful Colorado Springs. He also says that Bob STEPFFAN teaches at National Defense University but deployed to the desert w/ his special ops experience in November. Relays the story that Bob was in uniform at the Ft McNair O-Club soon after 9-11 and a bunch of retirees came up to him and told him how very proud they were of him and what he helped provide our country. A lot of handshakes, salutes and thank you’s were the order of the day. Bill says that it was an emotional and heartwarming display. Bob, stay safe.

From my Christmas card basket Steve WHEELESS is still making his fortune as an attorney in Phoenix, Greg SVESKA (AAL) is loving life in Colorado, John SUSAI.IA (NWA) is still in Detroit, Don COHICK and family retired and headed back to San Antonio for golf and airline work, andWalt WRIGHT and all packed up and moved to Heidelberg, GE where he is Chief, Forward Air Element to Joint HQ - senior AF guy in an Army world.

Walt Wright and family.

Tom McCarthy is still the OG/CC at Eglin flying F- 15s, Phil FINCH (NWA) is now an A-320 Captain out ofMEM, Mike WATSON is doing fantastic w/ 1 st command Financial Planning (old USPA&IRA) in Phoenix, JeffMOORE (UPS) and family are still loving Louisville and the time they have for tennis, and Chuck FRANCESCHI and Laura are giving their oldest up to marriage this May in Colorado. Chuck entered the Catholic seminary last year to become a deaconyou will be one of the best, Chuck. That’s all for now!

Don Myers

401 Chambray Hill Peachtree City, GA 30269-4247 (770) 631-1429

E-mail: DMyers80@hotmail.com

Class Home Page: http://usafa80.tripod.com

Running. Actually, I don’t “run” anymore I jog. There’s a subtle difference; most of it has to do with speed and the amount of pain I can endure. Anyhow, there are other benefits to “pounding the pavement,” besides the obvious: I discovered George (Alicia) FOX lives three doors down from me. George was putting in a line of pavers to separate his Bermuda grass from the shrubbery when I passed by. We both had that “I know you from somewhere” kind of glance before George said something

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profound like, “You’re Don Myers, aren’t you?” George flies out ofAtlanta and is content to stay as a senior copilot on Delta’s MD-11 and twist his body clock when he flies to points east and west ofthe U.S. And to further reinforce how small this company is (or how many of us are here?), I met Tad GRISHAM on the employee bus going back to our cars after the last trip before my furlough. He lives in the southern part of our town, has two boys (13 and 16 those are ages, not their names), and flies domestically between eight big cities in our largest version ofthe Boeing 767. Oh, I also met Steve MILLER in the pilot lounge after I spent the night in a plane trying to move up in the de-icing queue at Atlanta/Hartsfield. All I can remember is that he was trying to find a flight that was heading in the direction of his home while I was simply ready to find a bed. He’s one of those folks that hardly seemed to change since graduation.

Spies Among Us. Peggy (DENNIS) (Bob) CARNAHAN isn't actually a spy (at least I don’t think so), but she did deliver, once again, a stack of Christmas letters and newspaper articles from/about some of you who didn’t send them to me directly. (You’re forgiven.) I’ve combined her intel with a little of my own to come up with: Larry (Cindie+1) DePATIS is still a SQ/CC at Lackland; Holly (EMRICK) SVETZ keeps practicing law in D.C.; Jay (Sue+3) McFADYEN left Honeywell after eight years and now has a top legal job in Chatsworth, CA with Pentacon’s Aerospace Group; Alan BAKER still lives in Denver, but switched to flying UAL’s Boeing 757/ 767 out of Chicago (“Commuting is easy”); Margie (CLARK)(BJ+2) VARUSKA has settled in Arlington, VA. She flies for Southwest out of BW1 and BJ works for First Command many ofyou may know it by its former name, USPA & IRA.

Steve and Allene (DOWDEN) SALECK are still in Chandler, AZ. Steve makes money for Southwest Airlines as Allene stays busy corralling the six children (ages eight and up). It seemed like a boringyear at the Saleck’s: “I think we set another record for most trips taken in one year, but as I age and become more senile, I really don’t know if it was a new record or a tie with some of our past years!” To put life into perspective, Steve states that they “continue to watch these kids (Allene more closely that I most of the time!), and we are very humbled and amazed at God’s precious gifts to us. We are very proud of each of them and their abilities and talents only confirm the awesome work of God’s creation.”

Mary DALEY is Deputy Director ofthe AF Logistics ManagementAgency at Gunter (can you say “MON-gum-ree”), AL. She fessed-up to completing AWC by seminar with most of her brain still intact, and traveled throughout the U.S. last year to see family and some of you. Jaunts ineluded a bike ride throughVermont, discovering that “VermontAin’t Flat!”

Janet (LIBBY) (Wolf) WOLFENBARGER has one of those great AF assignments where she’s at Wright-Pat and he’s at Nellis. They’re up for orders and are hoping for at least the same time zone. She owns the B-2 SPO and “I still maintain it’s the best job in the Air Force. I’ve relished the responsibility of running a $45B program and taking care of the people assigned to me. I can’t imagine a more fulfilling job. Sure hope there’s one out there we’ll just have to wait and see!” Their four-year-old daughter, Callie, is “my constant companion when I’m not at work. Friends and coworkers have gotten used to her attendingparties or ‘helping’ me at the office when I have to work overtime.”

Ray LISTA related how, on 11 Sep, he had taken off in his American MD-80 and was over Tennessee at 35,000 feet when told to land at the nearest airport. “Ended up diverting to Nashville. My crew did an excellent job and remained calm throughout, considering the experience level of all of them: My FO [copilot] had two months with the company, my lead flight attendant had three weeks, along with another F/A with three weeks and one F/A had a whole three months. We were on the ground in about 15 minutes. The controllers did an excellent job and so did the other pilots in the air. It seemed like wartime, sort of reminding me of some nights in Saudi flying during Desert Storm.”

Diana (GREEN) (Frank 79+2) FRANCOIS retired from the AF, is still working “for SeiCorp, Inc., and enjoys the intimacy of a small company with the opportunity to continue serving the Air Force albeit in a different capacity.” Their oldest son, Frankie, was a track star in high school, including the fastest 500m time in the nation and is now finishing his freshman year at UT in Knoxville. Showing it wasn’t a fluke, their daughter is following in her older brother’s tracks. Hubby Frank continues to develop his side business with Nikken and flies the “Friendly Skies.”

Karen (COLE) (Mike 77+3) SELVA moved from being a general’s exec at Peterson to being a branch chief for programs & contract management

in the Logistics Directorate. Mike is the Support Group Commander. “It’s been a change of pace to say the least. I’ve got a bunch of captains (and one major) working for me that make me feel older than I am. Plus, they’re all health and fitness nuts so one wonders how a metabolicallychallenged slug like me got put in charge. They are motivation for me to work out though, which I am now doing.” Their oldest daughter, Megan, is a residence advisor at UC Boulder: “It’s a paid position so she gets paid to sit in meetings that convey nothing and accomplish little.” Does this last part sound familiar to any of you in the business/military world?

Kurt (Sharon+3) GREEN is still the Director of Operation Analysis for his company in Kenosha, WI. He’s treated himself to a Catalina 22 sailboat and plans to sail across Lake Michigan. Given our age, I think that officially enters Kurt in mid-life crisis. Class, can we still say they are raising their children properly when their oldest son’s first choice of schools is the Coast Guard Academy? (Actually, being retired from the Coast Guard, I probably shouldn’t knock it too much!) Sharon works with the Girl Scouts and gives a specialized program on topics like dating relationships, sexual harassment, and the like. She has given her program to over 2,000 young ladies!

Changing Times. Can you imagine the AF asking retirees to come back on active duty and paying them bonuses in certain skill shortages? Well, when I heard that news just after the airline furlough notices started flying, I even threw my name in the hat. I wanted a full-time Reserve (AGR) job not far from the house and got a call from one Craig SEEBER to talk about my application package. Seems he’s the exec to the CINC of the Reserves. Small world. Anyhow, given the amount of time, channels, and red tape involved with this new program and for a retired Coastie, no less my expectations have faded (and I should hopefully have another job by now). Thanks, Craig.

More PCS Orders: Here’s what I got from the latest commander assignment list. I don’t profess to know all the new lingo. Also, if I missed anybody, just email me and tell me about it! Bob ALLARDICE, 62nd Airlift Wing at McChord; Greg AUGST, 9 th AWACS/RECCE Grp at Beale; Bill BECKER, 31 s1 Fighter Grp at Aviano; Sue DESJARDINS, 60th Mobility Grp at Travis; Pat DUFFY, 46th Test Grp at Eglin; Frank KISNER, 16th Spec Ops/ Rescue Wing at Hurlburt; Stanley T. KRESGE, 33 rd Fighter Wing at Eglin; Pete MICALE, 37th TngSupt Grp at Lackland; Matt NEUNSWANDER, AGOS at NELLIS; Jerry SIEGEL, 611 th Fighter Grp at Elmendorf; Sue SLAVEC, 34 th Tng Supt Grp at USAFA; and Karen WILHELM, 2 nd Log Grp at Barksdale.

Congrats to the folks recently announced on the 0-6 list. I recognized a lot of you, but didn’t have the energy to go name-by-name and compare with the Register ofGraduates. I know you had to give Uncle Sam a fair amount of your time to get to this point, so my hat is off to you. For the rest of you mere mortals who didn’t make the list, I know it was a blow, but I also know there are lots of opportunities to put your achievements in other worthy places when the time comes. Good luck to all.

Not so Strange. Dave “Flip” FILLIPPI sends “a quick note to let you know that I’m out here in Utah these days. I’m the Log Group commander for the 75th Air Base Wing, and one of my cohorts in crime is JC DODSON, who’s the Support Group commander for theWing. Also, over on the 388th FWside ofthe house here at Hill, Bill COUTTS is the Ops Group commander. In my job as 75 LG, I own two munitions squadrons that perform the Air Force’s only STAMP/STRAPP mission. To put it in layman’s terms (which I always need), we package lots of bombs for delivery to worldwide USAF units. I’ve included a picture of me signing one of our favorites, the BLU82 Crowd Pleaser that was recently sent to “destinations unknown” life here’s a blast! The rigger sitting on the bomb in the background reminds me ofSlim Pickens in Dr. Strangelove. Mytroops are also responsible for all cargo operations here at Hill, so naturally we’re quite busy downloading and uploading cargo from the hordes who are coming through this base for support to the upcoming 2002 Winter Olympics.”

Flip sendinggreetings to our friends in the mountains. Speaking of Bill COUTTS, he was acknowledged in a feature article in the Chicago Tribune about the training his unit was doing in preparation for work over overseas.

Reachout XXI. Please update us on the comings and goings of: William JONES, Jr., David A. JONES, Mark G. JERSIN, Dane D. JACOBY, Michael G. JACKSON, Donnie L. JACKSON, Mark A. IRSIK. Once again, I picked these folks out of the Register based on the long time since their last update. This attempt is simply to get them back in connection with the AOG and us.

Middle ofthe Road. Just to prove to the taxpayers that the higher math courses I took at the Zoo had merit, I submit the following: If you subtract 21 from 1980 and add 21 to 1980, you get the classes of‘59 and ‘01, respectively. That puts us “smack” in the middle just as many classes have come before us as after us. Ofcourse, just as this Checkpoints comes off the press, 2002 will graduate and upset all my calculations.

Getting back to the theme ofrunning/jogging (OK, it’s a veryloose theme), I was remembering back to my cadet days, when I would go out and run around our 20,000 square acres in shoes I now would hardly consider fit for such abuse. Ahhh, those early days of spring, when being outdoors made the entire world seem fresh. A lot has changed; a lot hasn’t. As I mentioned, there will be a new crop of “us” graduating with the release of this magazine. They will throw their hats just like we did. They will leave the Zoo ready to take on the world, with the same bright smiles on their faces (I hope), that we did. Great days... then and now. God bless. Don

Dennis Ward (outgoing)

Rich Trentman (incoming)

11102 Asbee St.

Falcon, CO 80831-8170

H: (719) 494-9438

W: (719) 472-0300/DSN 333-2067

E-mail: rich.trentman@usafa.af.mil

Congratulations to ‘81 ’s new Colonels! From what I can discern, the following ‘81ers were on the 0-6 list released in February. Tom ARKO, Mike CARTNEY, Mike BUCK, Pete COSTELLO, J.C. CROWNOVER, Brian GREENSHIELDS, Doug GREGORY, T.J. HASTY, Leonard HEAVNER, Warren HENDERSON, Charles Wade JOHNSON, Keith KECK, Mike KELTZ, Juan MORENO, Kurt NEUBAUER, Yvonne (WILHELM) SCHILZ, and Mike ZEPF. If I have left your name off the list, my sincere apologies; if you have further complaints, take them up with management!

Reunion follow-up. Some have inquired whether excess class merchandise is available from the reunion - the answer at this point is no. Randy WORRALL sent out a mass interest count via e-mail and received only five responses, insufficient to mount an order, so unless there is a volunteer to take another stab at coordinating the effort, we will have to wait until the 25th to stock up. One purchase Randymade at the reunion which he highly recommends was a copy of the Lance Sijan story, “Into the Mouth of the Cat.” “A great story - we didn’t get all the details when we were doolies memorizing facts” says Randy, and he guarantees it a quick read - “even a mech major finished it in less than a week.” As a poli sci major not restricted to works with free body diagrams, I of course had long ago read this book and concur with Randy’s assessment. We hear the term hero a lot today, but here is a true hero from our own past whose courage and determination are difficult to fathom. Call the AOG or check their website for ordering info. Randy also mentioned that Steve KALE is a fellow MD-11 pilot flying for Delta out of Atlanta, although living in San Antonio and flying the F-16 on days off. Steve and wife, Mimi, stayed an extra day after the reunion and encountered a blizzard en route to Denver, which Steve called “the worst he has been in years” - obviously, he was not on the golf course for our reunion tournament.

’81: The Next Generation: For those in denial about our advancingyearsyou know who you are: your a-jacket is in the closet and you insist you could still get into it if you wanted to, you avoided the reunion because you didn’t want to be around all those “old guys,” and you still think you can dance - have another sobering fact to confront. At least two ‘81ers will be cadet parents next year. Jeff BRALEY’s son Andrew and Marty FRANCE’S son Sean have received appointments to the Zoo - congratulations! Others are sure to follow - if you know of any, let us know.

From Our Field Correspondent: Heard from Dave SCHOLL, a veritable spewing faucet of information, at least half of which cannot be printed in a family newsletter without howls of complaint and probable legal action. But some morsels are printable. Dave worked a Delta trip to Chile with Jim AGEE, where the two “showed the Delta girls and a few locals all the moves we learned at charm school in the Rockies.” That display having exhausted a full three minutes, they bought souvenirs and returned to Atlanta. Jim is a squadron commander in the Florida ANG flying F-15s, and was to be part of an ‘81 tour-de-force at the scheduledApril 4 shuttle launch, with Jim flying CAP over the launch, Mike BLOOMFIELD flying Atlantis, and Kelvin MANNING the vehicle manager.

Dave reports that Beef HADDAD, commander of the 711 th Special Ops Squadron at Duke Field, FL, spent 90 days in an undisclosed location after Sept 11 th Dave claims Beef lost 25 pounds fighting the war and

gained 30 back eating Mom’s home cooking in Arizona over Christmas, but Dave is a well-known liar, a fact to be considered when evaluating his comment that “Paul SULLIVAN isn’t doing a damn thing except loafing, going to the gym, and doing his Delta trips.” Dave also makes the dubious claim that Vince JONES grows a beard each winter and in doing so looks like Charles Manson (“no lie”). Vince is a civilian radiologist down Florida way. Reaching way back, Dave notes that he “flew London last summer with Bruce MCDUFF, we got some bad ice at a local pub and Bruce finished up the night swimming in the ocean. That’s all I can say about that.” It’s not enough because I have no idea what Dave is talking about. Finally, brother Scholl notes, “Sean BISHOP is living in Stuttgart and commuting to Atlanta to fly his Delta trips. He is in a constant state of jet lag and bitching non-stop.” I have no way to evaluate this charge but present it for your consideration.

And in other News... Tom ARKO missed the reunion because he was deployed from Mountain Home on Sept 24,h for Operation Enduring Freedom, commanding the 34th EBS. Tom relinquished command in February and is headed to ICAF this summer. Other ‘81ers at Mountain Home recently include A.J. BRITSCHGI, who also led his 391 EFS “Bold Tigers” in Enduring Freedom, and Harley HAMMOND, who PCSed in the fall to Turkey to be the Deputy OG at Incirlik. Eric “Pup” O’CONNELL retired as the 390 FS commander and is now flying corporate jets in Columbus, OH. Jay SANTEE is heading from Colorado Springs to Vandenberg to be the 614th Ops Group Commander and A3 on the SPACEAF (USSPACECOM’sAF Component) staff. Jaywill be running the Aerospace Operations Center and tasking all the other space units with a space tasking order. Let’s get that Death Star eliminated post haste, Jay.

Rich TRENTMAN, who’s in Colorado Springs and on the AOG staff, ran into Larry STREUK and Bob STEIGERWALD in March at USAFA’s pugilistic perennial, the Wing Open. Turnout at a planned mini-reunion a few days later was impeded by snow but Russ DEFUSCO, Mike WOLFE, and Mike JAKOBI braved the weather to share reminiscences and other lies about their cadet days. Rich also heard from Larry CHING, who’s a 747400 first officer with Cathay Pacific and is looking to move from Phoenix to Anchorage soon. Rich reports that Alex BAGGETT is with FedEx and took time out to email from Memphis while on a run down to Brazil.

Finally, Au Revoir... By the way, that same Rich TRENTMAN is your new class scribe. I have enjoyed the privilege of writing the class news column for the past couple years but am ready to make way for a new voice; one, I hope, with has a greater mastery of the English language, less need of a spell checker, and greater respect for editors’ deadlines. Rich is the brains behind the USAFA81.com web site and, from his perch on the AOG staff in Doolittle Hall, is as well-connected an insider as any class could hope for. I greatly appreciate his volunteering for the task, (sucker!), know he will do a superior job as class scribe, and hope you will do as much to make his job easy as you have for me. Best to all!

*HSp

Jim Ratti

6329 Pheasant Valley Road ^ Dayton, OH 45424-7100

H: (937) 236-9306

Hap rattijm@mindspring.com

http://usafa82.org

Hello Redtags!

Ah, springtime! When a (not-so) young man’s fancy turn to thoughts of... taxes. And, ifyou’re 40-something, 20th reunions! Planning for ours is in full swing, and by the time this is printed in Checkpointsyou’ll have received (and hopefully returned) your registration forms, and have your plans made to attend what promises to be a fabulous affair. I’m looking forward to seeing each of you there in the Springs.

Lots of good stuff in the mailbag this time. We’re continuing to be a prolific bunch, doing our part to ensure the survival of the species. Brian CANINO and his wife welcomed a baby boy in early March (pictures on the website see the Jan-Apr 2002 updates), and Mike and Kathleen BERRY also had a boy (Ogden Fermi Berry; see the website for a picture) in December. Mike and his family are living in Los Alamos, in a house once occupied by none other than Enrico Fermi, so I think I see the connection there! By the way, Mike sent me one of those bank-issued “web bill pay” sort of checks to pay for his coins. When you use those services, you’re forced to provide an account number. Since there wasn’t one for this transaction, Mike made one up it was 020682.

And if Baby Canino and Baby Berry weren't enough, Bill (“Not Bored and Very Tired”) EADES and his wife made up for lost time by having twins back in January! Bill also sent a copy of his Kansas Air Guard unit’s last group shot before converting from the B-l to the KC-135R. Both he and Sam “Flipper” GREGOV made their way into the photo. The picture wasn’t high enough resolution to print here, but like the baby pictures, you can find it on the website.

Class of 1982 20th Reunion/Homecoming USAFA vs. NewMexico 4-8 September 2002

I had a briefwork-related e-mail encounter with Brock STROM in January. I learned that he’s an 0-6 working acquisition issues for the Air National Guard in D.C. And speaking of 0-6s, Tim COLLINS is back in the States after a couple tours in Korea. He’s the Vice Commander of the AS2ISRC at Langley. Mike “Chief” RYAN wrote a note to let me know that he and his wife left Germany for a year or so of gastronomic delight and other Professional Military Education at the Ecole Militaire in Paris, France. And Theresa BEDNAREK, still in Germany, sent a short update along with her coin order. She’s at Ramstein with Ray PHILLIPS, Wil URQUHART, and Dan ROONEY.

Dave “Opie” O’MEARA also sent a note along with his coin order. He’s the commander of the Rescue Division at the Weapons School at Nellis. He says he’s having a blast in what is his third tour in Las Vegas. Prior to this posting, he’d been the Chief of Safety at the Air Warfare Center, and the Chief ofAir & Space SuperiorityProgramming at ACC. He’s still flying HH-60s, and has over 3,500 hours in helos. He’s probably got more time in hover than I’ve got on the crew ladder! He and his wife of 19 years are, like many of us, looking forward to the reunion.

Scot SlilER sent me a note regarding his quints being invited to appear on Jay Leno’s show. The appearance was originally scheduled for February, but then the kids (and Scot!) all got the flu right before the taping. It’s been postponed a couple times since then, but as of this writing is on the books for late March. I thought it was interesting that Jay’s producers only wanted the kids to appear not Mom and Dad!

Alan GOARD sent a short email from Ottawa with some updated address info. He says Ottawa is an exceptionally great town, except that this winter has been too warm for him to skate to work! It would be a short two-block skate up a frozen canal to get there, and Alan says it’d be “seriously cool” to skate to work and “participate in this uniquely Canadian spectacle”, if only the weather would cooperate. Gee Alan, down here most folks are trying to skate AT work, not TO work... Tom SYLKE also sent an email address update, along with news that he’s spending a lot oftime collecting frequent flyer miles as he splits his time between his law firm’s offices in Milwaukee and San Francisco. Glen DOWNEY also updated his address, and told me that he’s been promoted to International Contracts Manager for Raytheon C3S in Fort Wayne IN.

Maurice “Shamu” SALCEDO jotted a note from Langley to tell me that he’s there as an ACC/IG inspector for the F-15, and his daughter is friends with Tim COLLINS’ daughter. I got a short message from Donna (GLANCEY) SHUTZIUS too. She’s at the Pentagon, and told me that she’d been chatting with Marc ARRENDALE (also at the Pentagon) who vectored her to our class website to update her info. And via other brief address updates I learned that Matt “Lief” ERICHSEN and his wife, Paula (DOREMUS), are at Maxwell (Matt’s a War College student), and that Rich SIMPSON is the commander of the 99lh Flying Training Sq at Randolph. Steve HILL sent a coin orderfrom C-Springs, where he was working in Space Command’s XP shop. He’s now the Services Sq commander at Malmstrom.

Mike SOBY contacted me from D.C, where he’s running his own web design and consulting firm called Navigation Arts. He generously offered to provide some creative and technical support for the class website, and I fully intend to take him up on his offer! Watch the site for the fruits of his collaboration! Mike told me he’s been in D.C. for over 16 years now, both on and off active duty. He resigned in 1992 and took an engineering position with MRJ, doing satellite reconnaissance work. He left there in 1999, and assumed a software engineering position with Cysive, then left in 2001 to co-found Navigation Arts this past Fall. He says the new company is doing well, and is the most rewarding effort he’s ever undertaken.

Finally, Skip GRESKO sent a note saying he’s been in D.C. “working his butt off” as the Air Vehicle Lead for the Joint Strike Fighter source selection team. As you can imagine, he’s had tons of face time with folks like the SecAF and SecNav, advising them on what is the largest DoD contract in history. He says it’s been the most demanding, yet most rewarding job of his career. Of course, the rest of the story is ungodly hours for about nine months straight, making Skip wonder out loud how anyone can have the impression that acquisition is a “cushy” job! I agree, Skip. Well, that’s about it for this time around. Keep your ear to the rail for reunion news and info. I’ll do my best to keep you updated—watch the website (http://usafa82.org/reunion) for details. And don’t forget to order your class coins! Be Safe, Ratman.

Visit the AOG Web Site

www.aog-usafa.org

Jon Duresky

5342 Western Plains Ave.

Abilene, TX 79606

H: (915) 698-7850

DSN Work: 461-2203

E-mail: DureskyJB@aol.com

Welcome to my world, Classmates. Jack’s Valley revisited, in a way. Tent City. Ten men to a tent. Chow hall tree times a day, or less, as one’s metabolism slows down as he reaches into his 40s. Communal showers and latrines. As you might have guessed, I’m fighting the War, as airlifters do, from a deployed location, Tent City, alternating between sand and mud, and enjoying a visit from the occasional camel spider. On the serious side, now, this is what we were trained to do, beginning way back in 1979. Those ofyou who are also deployed during this conflict, or who have spent previous months away from your loved ones in previous conflicts or on any deployment, give yourself a patriotic pat on the back. But ifyou ever start to feel sorry for yourself, nip that self-pity in the bud right away. If the hardest hardship we have to face in a career is to open Christmas cards alone in a foreign country, then we have had it pretty good. Our families are safe, our country is free, our culture is the envy of the world, and we have each done our part to ensure that they and it stays that way. And in not too long a time (planning committee get to work!) we will be able to sit around at the 20-year reunion, and tell stories of the days ofyore.

Headlining this column is none other that John ZAZWORSKY. He is a C-17 squadron commander, so has been very involved in airlift during the conflict since Day One. His efforts in that position are noteworthy, but I wish to publicly recognize him as this year’s winner of the coveted “Helping Out a Classmate” Award. The classmate is me. The place was Charleston. The time was late. John met me at his base ops after I had been on the road for so long I was delirious. He opened his home to me, despite the fact that he was running his part of the war and was very busy. I had been overseas for a while and needed to see a friendly face, and John was there when I needed him. To show my appreciation, I even made my bed the next morning before I pressed on to my home. So for your loyalty to CS-13 Bullfrogs, and ‘83ers everywhere, Thanks!

I could have given the Coveted Award to Jeff FIEBIG or Eli POWELL, but both of their homes in Monument, CO are sooooo tiny that there is no room for another award. Shoot, to find any wall space, they might have to add a sixth bedroom. Having roomed with each back at the Zoo, I must have been a very good influence to enable two guys with such diverse careers to be so successful. Hey, maybe they should give me the award!

Anyway, I took a trip to Colorado Springs last spring with my son to do a little scouting of USAFA for future admissions purposes. Jeff and Ellen (NELSON, ‘84) were unbelievable hosts. To show our appreciation, my son (also named Jeff) and I quickly pointed out the mud that we tracked through their house with the pretty white carpet, so Jeff and Ellen would lose no time cleaning it up. Their kitchen/bar gave us a very good vantage point to watch them work. Is that a good guest or what, to stay out of the way? Can’t remember if we made our beds before we left, though.

Eli also opened his house/tiny shack on the prairie to us, and helped us out enormously with admissions issues, and has been only a phone call away whenever I needed him, even when we were not on the same continent. No printed words could thank him enough. For those of you keeping track, Jeff is a Reserve support group CC, airline pilot, and entrepreneur. Eli is the AF’s top orthopedic surgeon, still the USAFA sports doc, and he and Judy are raising perhaps the two brightest children that I have ever met in my entire life.

Vacationing in Hawaii: Eli, Judy, Elisha, and Sarah Powell. Did you check out the “Charles Garcia in Focus” article in the last issue of Checkpoints? After I read it, 1 was unsure if “Charles” is the same “Charlie” that we know and love. But upon further review, the two are one in the same. Charlie and I had a few classes together at the Academy,

and the same poli sci major, so 1 must have been a good influence on him, too. You don’t really think it was his hard work that has launched him to the top of the military, corporate, business, and political world, do you? He was lucky enough to know me! Great article, seriously. With my crystal ball, I see the first USAFA grad elected President of our United States. Tell us when and where to begin campaigning, bud. And if you need a pilot for your business jet, Charles, I know how to fly!

How about an update from my home base back in America? Dyess AFB still has a few ‘83ers floating around. Bill SPACY is still the OSS/CC, getting ready to head to the Industrial College of the AF this summer. Pat FROST is chief of group stan/eval, and is rumored to be PCSing this summer for a sq/cc job at an East Coast base. I don’t know the details, so in the quest of accuracy in reporting, that is all I will say.

Pat has a really nice boat and two jet skis which I will offer to babysit for him, since sq/cc duties are far too time-consuming for entertainment. Bill is the windsurfing guru ofwindy Abilene, TX, when he can drag himself away from the office or his BMW. I also run into Craig SMYSER at the gym, as we both sneak out from behind our desks for a lunchtime sanitykeeping hour in the weight room.

As I bopped around the AOR recently, who did I run into at a “classified location doing classified things” but Chris CICERE! We had sort of been communicating by proxy for months. I would hear that he was someplace, pass a hello onto him, and he would do the same to me. But as fortune smiled on us in the middle of the night, we actually ran into each other and had a pleasant chat trying to catch up on years apart in the space of 20 minutes. What is not classified is that he has a wonderful wife and four smilingkids, with the proud papa pictures to prove it. Chris reports that Marcus DIETERS is deployed with him, and equally enjoying himself in the pursuit of $3.50/day field conditions, two hots and an MRE per day, a comfy cot, all the water you can drink, and putting those Jack’s Valley camping skills to use!

I have a small pile of Christmas cards and letters in front of me, but I shy away from reporting on their contents, because Ray“RDQ” BLUST usually gets the same cards, and steals all of the good lines. One card stood out, however. Reference the picture of the color coordinated ULICH family, winners of the “My Dog could Eat yourWhole Family for Breakfast” Award. Great picture, Bob. He must have finally found his car keys, because the family looks too clean to have walked all the way to the photo studio.

BiggestDogAward Winners: Bob, Mary, Tori, Austin, and Bogey Ulich. I guess I have room for a few more “Where are They Now” snippets. Billy “the Machine” WALKER is the newest head of the Physical Education Department and an Associate Athletic Director at the Academy. All I can say is pity the foolwho doesn’t take Billy’s department seriously. Most of the airline pilots in my calling circle have not been furloughed, and are happily back in the air again, although a few had anxious moments on 9/11. Those still with jobs are Jeff FIEBIG, Vince COMPAGNO, Ray BLUST, Robert GREGOR, Jerry VARNER, and Tom SOLOMOM. (Lots of others, too, but you guys don’t send me Christmas cards.) That is a good thing, because now they won’t be competing with me for the coveted position of Charlie GARCIA’s private pilot for the soon-to-be world-famous Sterling Financial Investment Group.

And as I come to the bottom of my mailbag, I find two other guys who are fighting the War full scale. Chris MOULTON is a C-130 sq/CC, so imagine how busy he is. And Mitch DeLaROSA, an acquisitions expert for spec ops C-130s and gunships, is suddenly on everyone’s “gotta call this guy yesterday” list. Do you think that he has a fewgovernment dollars to spend?

The final “Where is He Now” I save for myself. I will be PCSing this summer, methinks to the E-8 JSTARS at Robins AFB, GA. So if you wish to call me to express bewilderment as to why I did not mention you in my article (you will get my answering machine), or to praise me for a fine piece (I will pick up the phone right away!), try the email route instead. I’ll give Ray BLUST my new address as soon as we stop living out of our cars.

Thus ends my annual visit with you, fine Classmates. The times might be a-changing, but our USAFA-forged bonds are forever. As always, Gear Down, Check Six, and make off-site Backup Files. Jon Duresky

Mike Jensen

12035 Milam Road

Colorado Springs, CO 80908

(800) GO-AFA-GO

E-mail: mdjensen21@yahoo.com

Home page: www.usafa.net/1984

Great thingsgoing on at USAFA: I am sure this issue of Checkpoints will bring to light many of the great things going on at our school, but suffice it to say the country is being well served by those who choose to go there! In fact, back in 2000, AFA was listed as the school which provided the best overall academic experience in the nation according to the Princeton Review. The also found the Academy’s engineering program as the 5th best in the country. The Athletic Department broke ground on a new athletic facility, which will be completed early in 2003. This facility will house an athletic hall of fame as well as sports medicine and weight training facilities, men’s and women’s locker rooms, and team meeting rooms.

IFT is back at USAFA. Introductory Flight Training will be conducted back at the Academy. Since 1999, the training for UPT-bound cadets has been handled by civilian schools and the aero club. The operations are slated to start in June.

Now more than ever we need to work on increasing our class membership. Since that glorious day in 1984, we have been blessed with 6,514 more glorious days (as of 1 April 2002). Think of it this way. A life membership to the school which provided your undergraduate education would have cost you less than $.08/day SO FAR! That membership, even ifpaid today, would cost you less than $.07/day for the next 20 years. Now those who know me (or can tell by my writings), I am no rocket scientist, but I don’t feel that is too much to give. For those who are reading this (that are members) - THANK YOU! I am asking you to get the grads you know to become members of the AOG.

Off the soapbox: I did not get any updates for this article, thus giving me the right to pontificate on any items I choose. To stop this in the future, please update me with your goings-on, and send me any and all of the email addresses or phone numbers on grads who need to be members. One family, I did not put into the last article, are Mark and Lorrie (HAYWARD) NOVAK. They sent me a wonderful picture ofthem and their son, Nick (3). Torrie is flying for United, and Mark is working at the Lincoin, NE guard. Still a big Cornhusker fan, he does get out to many of the AFA games!

Lorrie and Mark Novak with son Nick.

I got a postcard from Herman “the big GUN” BAKER, from the GreatWall of China. He was wondering if they marched any tours there? Always the master of the good deal, needless to say, he is having a good time!

Drop me a line: I have not done a good enough job of finding you, but I will. So make it a bit easier, by dropping me a note of what you are doing, and I hope to run into you at an AFA function soon! Jens

Quintel Williams

6410

Katherine Ann Lane

Springfield, VA 22150

E-mail: USAFA1985@aol.com

Assalam’ alaikoom! For those who don’t know it already, it means “greetings (peace be with you) in Arabic. I have been deployed to Saudi Arabia since January 28th I almost missed this Checkpoints deadline because I don’t have access to my normal AOL account out here. Thanks to Col Jack ANTHONY (’78), whom I just happened to call one day, I found out

that I was late but not too late to get something into the AOG for Checkpoints this time. I emailed the AOG staff before I deployed out here to let them know that I was deploying and asked to be notified of the next Checkpoints deadline at my deployed email address. Well, I guess Murphy’s Law kicked in and they didn’t get my message. Of course, I wasn’t at home to get a reject message. Go figure! Well, it’s been confirmed. Once I got out here for this deployment, I found a Second Lieutenant Scott Murphy had been assigned with me! At least Lt Murphy was able to take this picture (below) of me riding a camel when we had a break one day in March.

don’t want to say too much about me. So I’ll move along now. We have a lot of good news to pass along. I’ll start with the promotions. Congratulations are in order for our new colonel-selects: Yulin (GREEN)

WHITEHEAD and Ian MITCHELL! Congratulations are also in order for our newest lieutenant colonel-selects: JeffreyHAYMOND and Peter READ! Next, we have a couple of command assignments. Congrats to Lt Col Chevy CLEAVES for being selected to be the squadron commander for the 351 ARS at RAF Mildenhall! Chevy, Monica and the kids moved out there in February. This summer we’ll have classmates taking the reins at two space operations squadrons at Schriever AFB, CO: Lt Col (Burke) Ed WILSON is taking over command of the 1 SOPS and Lt Col Scott HENDERSON will command 2 SOPS. Also, congrats to Lt Col Dave THOMPSON who’s packing his family and going to Vandenberg AFB, CA this summer to be the director of operations for the 2 SLS. I want to thank Ray HARRIS again for building and maintaining a web site for our class. The URL for the USAFA ’85 site is: http:// www.softwrsolutions.com/usafa85. Please log and take the survey to let us knowwhatyou think about trying to bringbackthe lastfour cadet squadrons (CS-37 to CS-40). We’ll get the results to the AOG staffand see ifthey’ll raise issue raised with other classes and/or the Academy leadership.

I received Bob PICKRELL’s Christmas card, but too late to include info or a picture in the last Checkpoints. I’ve got to let you all know that he and Erin are still doing fine in Texas. Bob sent a picture of his beautiful little girls, Carley and Kyle, playing on a swing set. However, the rule for class news photos is that a grad must be in the photograph to be published. The reason for this is that the magazine has gotten so large that photos of children only take up much-needed space.

Please feel free to send me pictures that are already scanned into the computer in your emails or a hard copy pictures you can include in your snail mail. Just write me with some news that I can share with our classmates. Remember, “Inquiring minds want to know” what’s going on with you and your families.

I should be back home in northern Virginia by the time this is published. So keep sending the class news to my normal address listed at the top of the article. Take care. God bless you one and all. Ma’assalam! Which means “good bye (one departing)” in Arabic. Sincerely, Quintel

Gary Burg

PSC 41, Box 5423

APO, AE 09464-5201

Email: gary.burg@lakenheath.af.mil or lce492FS@aol.com

Greetings Classmates and congratulations to all the new 0-5 selects - I heard a rumor of an 0-6 select - I hope he’s an AOG member. A lot has changed since my last Scribe update. Most importantly, after getting Tommy Franks all squared away down in Tampa, I have returned home. Once I get squatter Frank ROSSI’s stuff off my desk, I can back to work. Frank was TDY from the Doctrine Center and is now proud papa to a new baby boy, Peter. Shannon, whose family is in the area, and the rest of the clan came TDY as well. We had the whole clan over and are still recovering.

Scribepicturedridinga dromedarycamel at the Saudi CulturalExchange at Eskan Village near Riyadh on 10 March 2002.

At the Pentagon I bumped into Mike LOGRANDE. He was wearing business attire and was working a Reserve/Guard/airline pilot/jail-house lawyer “deal” to return to USAFA as the fall Cadet Wing Commander. No actually, it was a “real” job involving a return to active duty. I also ran into Steve WALLER who was attempting a similar stunt given his status with the airlines. I guess we didn’t drive the stake deep enough into their chests the first time. Also ran into Ivan THOMPSON on the Metro and he is looking to get out of the Air Force and go off to do other things. Ivan mentioned Scott MCCLEAN, who is now a lobbyist for Lockheed-Martin (you know the guys who made the SV5I Lifting Body out by the Aero lab). Ivan spent the last year as the squadron commander for Tops in Blue. He promised to get me some details but failed, so if this article runs short I will tell the little known story of Ivan and the “La Cage de Bleu.”

Speaking of poorly-written French, I see old fellow Freshman-Frenchclass sufferer Rob ROSENTHAL about everyday. He is usually in the process of misplacing or losing one of my staph packages. He is one of the many XO Execs and manages to stay upbeat! Rob writes: “Bob, sorry about losing your well-written staff package! My wife, fanet, Elizabeth (age 6) and Eric (age 2) are all great! Elizabeth rides horses and is a fantastic soccer player! Eric is all boy all the time! He is either in full burner or sleeping! Janet is a terrific Mom! Plenty of things to do in the area and the kids have activities all over the map! It’s been fun seeing fellow classmates during my “career broadening” here at the Pentagon! My SURF since graduation: T-38 IP at Columbus, KC-135 EP at Barksdale, C-18 IP/ NKC-135 EP at Edwards, T-1 PIT EP at Randolph, and the Pentagon! Hope to return to fly as soon as possible!” See, really upbeat!

Rob KAUFMAN, my ACSC seminar mate, went off to jump school so he could jump into places like Afghanistan. He sent this after finishingjump “requal” and it is titled “Jump right out and count to four... or bury me in the leaning rest.” “As oflast Friday, mywife’s hope of cashing in that SGLI policy were dashed by my successful completion of airborne training. My airborne experience went something like this: Week One Ground Week: Man, I’m sore. Why are we running in combat boots? Week two Tower week: Man, I’m sore. Why are we still running in combat boots?

Week three Jump week: Jump One: Holy $&*#! (Hey Rob, this is a family magazine!) This is crazy, this is crazy, this is crazy... splash! Jump Two: Hey, I think I’m getting the hang of... hey, watch where you’re going crash. Jump Three: I didn’t realize you could hit this hard without breaking something. Jump Four: I didn’t realize you can hit this hard without breaking something. Jump Five: Ouch, but my legs still work, my arms still work, and I’m alive, but sore! Thirty-six is definitely too old for this. Still healing, Rob.

I also heard from Bruce WASSERZIEHER, who is now a contractor at Scott AFB and is working at AFCA/GCLO. (Scribe: You know the place where they make replacement terrazzo squares? I ordered 20 gross and I DITY moved them - they have alreadypaid for themselves 10 times over.) Bruce writes “After scaring my IP during a short stint at UPT at Columbus with Matt SHEPARDSON, Rob GIVENS, Rob SLOAN, and Dave BRYANT, I found myself in the then brand-new Operations Management (19xx) career field as an adjutant with a KC-135 squadron at Altus. With all the additional duties the pilots quickly unloaded on me, I moved over to the command post. I got to decode those cool SAC messages and talk on the radio to the aircrews. When the powers-that-be decided to reorganize the Air Force, we merged with the MAC command post folks into a combined AMC command post. Then I got to make wake- up calls to C-5 and C-141 pilots. Six months later, the base went under AETC. Deciding that I’d had enough of AETC, I bolted for the 388th Fighter Wing in Utah. I then cross-trained into Communications and Information, and PCSd to Scott AFB. Scott was great, but I decided it was time to try out life in the civilian sector. I am married to Lisa, a wonderful lady, and have four children: Zach, Katy, Trevor, and Emily. In my spare time, I’ve been writing fantasy sports articles for a leading fantasy sports website (KFFL), http://www.kffl.com. I stay in close contact with some of my old CS-16 buds like Scott TROTTER and Scott CILLEY.

Artist Rick Broome is looking for a RTB class vignette to add to a painting. Since the hospital won’t be in the painting, the only thing I can think of is a Mitchell Hall memorial ice bucket like the one Pete DOLAN threw up into during our Hell Week. Any better ideas out there, please write. Got this from Chuck WALLACE about three months ago, still waiting for the follow up: “Bob: lust wanted to make sure you’re still the person to send write-ups to. If I send a picture electronically with the write-up, what format is best? Also for the write up, can I email or is a Word Doc better?” Please note: For this type ofinquiry, go ahead and “roll the dice” and add a few tidbits about yourself. To answer, again, any message for-

Visit the AOG Web Site - Merchandise, Gone But Not Forgotten and More!

www.aog-usafa.org

mat is fine as I cut/paste/edit/commit libel etc in order to put this literary delight together. Pictures are best sent as attachments as JPEG or TIF files at a minimum of 266 DPI. (T.O. HANFORD don’t panic call me at DSN 227-9305 and I will walk you through it.)

Angie FALISE has a new assignment South of the Axis of Evil Korea where she will be for another four months, and then I believe she is heading out my way for National War College.

Running out of runway here, so I will close. I am off to ACSC tomorrow to brief the sleeping crowd on “Checkmate, Crisis Action Planning, and small woodland creatures.” If I get in trouble, I plan wow them with balloon animals. (You think I’m kidding?) Please write, or at least write your mom and have her forward it to me at bob_colella@mindspring.com.

If you need email addresses of anyone mentioned in the article, please email me and if I have an address I will provide it. Oh, and join the AOG!

Sharon Giletti

1116 Kaumoku St. Honolulu, HI 96825 (808) 394-6397

E-mail: Sharongiletti@aol.com

Hi again! Boy, the time between articles just seems to be getting shorter and shorter. What is it with the connection between raising kids and the loss of time? Is it some inverse daylight savings time phenomenon the faster they grow, the faster the days seem to go by? Or is it just the seeming loss of major brain cells with each pregnancy? Cells do regenerate; time doesn’t, so it must be the former. Anyway, I laughed so hard when I got this next email. After two years, Dave GOULD decided to send a letter my way and what a large update it was. Dave’s stationed at US Special Operations Command at MacDill AFB, FL. I’d love to summarize his tidbits, but I’d lose a lot of his great humor. So here he is folks, back upon demand:

“I’m working at US Special Operations Command at MacDill AFB, FL, doing my desk job while waiting to go back to flying MC-130s somewhere. Since I’m a pilot, and at a ‘non-flying’ job, I’m not allowed to say that I absolutely love it here and wouldn’t mind staying... so I won’t (don’t want to upset the apple cart with an different perspective). I’m married, Jill (29... forever), with two Apache Indians boys,Wyatt (6) andAustin (3), so... I don’t have a life. I just got selected for Lt Col, so someday we mightjust be able to live within our means. Last spring I lived out the recurring nightmare of returning to the Academy. I gave a brief on SOCOM to the seniors in their military class. I also got to eat at Mitch’s. Who would have thought I would actually request to eat there? It was very cool, yet the old saying that ‘you can’t go home again’ rang true. It is so different from what I remember. I go back this April again, so I will have more of a chance to visit.

“I can give you some updates on the following people I’ve seen or heard of recently. Henry POLCZER is the Ops Officer for the KC-135 tanker squadron here at MacDill and just got promoted. Cary HERRERA just PCSd here to SOCOM. J.R. HOWELL flies the CINCCENTCOM’s aircraft here at MacDill. Steve MILLER I attended Joint Forces Staff College (JFSC) in Norfolk, VA for three months last fall and ran into ‘Stork.’ Under the caption ‘small world’ he now works here at MacDill in CENTCOM’s J-5. Eric PAYNE—While at JFSC, I also ran into Eric. He was on his way to the JFCOM staff and was looking for a big house, even though he’s single, to put all his toys in. D.J. ANDERSON —While at JFSC, I also ran into my old roommate, D.J. He was working at ACC HQ at Langley and while I was there, he got orders to Moody AFB, GA. He now flies JSTARs out of there. Tom BEHNKE he’s the F-15 assignments officer at Randolph and is busy sending all the guys who want back into the AF off to Korea... ouch! He’s no longer labor he’s made the full transition to management. Scott HAVERKATE Speaking of guys getting back in the AF Scott resigned from the AF in May and got hired by United. He was hired under a new contract that guaranteed if laid off, when asked to return to work, he can defer for up to five years and still be guaranteed a job (you can see this coming, can’t you). So he was laid off after 9 /11 and was able to come back in the AF, right back to flying as if nothing happened. He’s currently at Kirtland, AFB in Albuquerque, NM flying MC-130s. The best part of all this is that when he retires, he doesn’t have to interview for a job he’s already hired and will keep his current line number! Some guys are brilliant, some just have dumb luck... you make that call.

“Janet JUENG We’ve been in our house for about 1 1/2 years now, and last summer some new neighbors moved in down the block. To make a long story short, it turned out to be Janet (JUENG) EDWARDS and her husband, Mike Edwards (Class of‘86—but wait, he’s really not a bad guy!). They both got out of the AF; he’s flying for Delta and she’s chasing raising their three boys. They have since moved to Stewart, FL on the East Coast because Mike said the fishing’s better there. Kind ofmakes you hate him, doesn’t it. He is an ‘86 grad after all.

“Steve SCHIFANI Scott HAVERKATE said that on a recent drive across

the country, he stopped at Tinker AFB, OK and found Steve SCHIFANI. Since pilot training, his assignments have been to Tinker, then back to Del Rio, TX as an IP, and now back to Tinker. Who said “S” is a two-dimensional guy? He flies AWACs, at least when he’s not a T-37 IP. But give him time. Gerald LANAGAN Gerald, call sign ‘Buster’ (it’s a fighter pilot thing), is working in D.C. doing his 'desk tour’ in acquisition on the Secretary’s staff. His wife and he are expecting their third child soon. Rip Lee He and his wife, Becky, are enjoying life in Wichita, KS flying for United and watching all of us run around like crazy. Their two kids are wonderful and he provides the perfect person to envy. Is it possible to hate someone and love them at the same time? Oh, that’s right... all you fellow parents can answer that one yourselves. Greg SCHWARTZ I last saw Greg when we left Fort Leavenworth with him in the summer of2000. Greg, his wife, Julie, and their two kids were off to Charleston flying C17s. Greg is a slow learner, so they now have another child. But he must be doing something right because he got promoted and his picture was in the AF Times. Who could forget his incredibly excited look holding his new silver oak leaves. He could hardly contain himself. In case you haven’t seen it, he might as well have been handed a dirty diaper. Obviouslythey didn’t have any other picture they could print. Well Sharon, that about does it for now. I feel like a mother bird who has just regurgitated an entire mouse - ‘not full, yet satisfied.’” Ifyou know Dave, this sounds like he hasn’t changed much! Thanks for the dirt and the humor.

Tim MATSON wrote in from Fairchild AFB, WA. He says he hasn’t run into too many classmates lately. Dan O’CONNOR just left the wing exec job at Fairchild to become the Ops Officer ofthe 96th Air Refueling Squadron. Besides flying and being the ADO in the OSS here, Tim’s been doing Presidential Advance Agent duties. His big news is that he and his wife, Lori, are expecting their second child! They also sent a picture of Tim, Lori, their son Ryan, and their dog snow shoeing on Lolo Pass on the Montana-Idaho border in February.

I got some late breaking news the other day to add. Bobby JOHNSON is officially engaged! I think they’ll be tying the knot in October, that is, as long as it doesn’t conflict with an AF football game. Congratulations to the Bobber and his New Jersey girl.

I hope all is well with you all. 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

Hi‘88!

Let’s start with some good news from Arizona. Arizona AOG members, lead by Frank SCHMUCK, hosted the Academy Chorale for an early March ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) fundraiser. Excerpts from his post-event press release follow:

“The first year for most charitable events is one that normally loses money; however, Voices Take Flight was able to heighten awareness of Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), promote three outstanding choirs (The Phoenix Boys Choir, The Men of the Phoenix Boys Choir and USAFA Cadet Chorale) and raise money for the ALS Association—Arizona Chapter to help “strike out” ALS.

“The day after the concert we received a telephone call from Brian Welch. Brian is an American Airline’s pilot who flew A-10s during the Persian GulfWar of 1991 and now lives in Dallas, Texas with his wife, Kim, and two children: Nicola, 11, and Dylan, 9. Brian is age 41 and received an ALS diagnosis last year. He has upper limb onset and although his voice is still understandable, he will soon need a wheelchair. Work is being accomplished to secure treatment, equipment and benefits for Brian and his family. He called us because he had heard about Voices

The Academy Chorale

Take Flight through the Internet and asked us to thank everyone for helping PALS and their families.

“Because of the wonderful comments we received from members of the community who attended this concert and because of the interest from sponsors who were unable to contribute this year, we are seriously considering making this an annual event. We hope many more will offer their support and unselfish giving to help Voices Take Flight for those who can no longer, with hopes of eradicating this horrendously undiscriminating disease.

Frank also included some photos of the event:

Frank Schmuck, ’88, and Robert Wagner, ’76

I would be remiss if I didn’t also mention Falcon’s Cry (by Michael and Denise Donnelly) again. Major (Ret) Michael Donnelly was a Persian Gulf War fighter pilot awarded four Air Medals for completing 44 combat missions over Iraq during Operation Desert Storm. He was diagnosed with ALS at the age of 36 while still on active duty. Frank was so moved by Falcon’s Crythat he and another Persian GulfWar pilot, Hiroshi WAJIMA (‘88, now with America West Airlines and living in the Phoenix area), offered to produce the audio version of the book. The three men agreed the profits from the sale of this version go to help other Persian GulfWar veterans and those suffering from ALS. The audio version of Falcon’s Cry released in early 2001. They can be found at a bookstore or on the Internet; I highly recommend them.

I spoke with Anne CHINNERY recently. She’s currently a Deputy Program Manager and Scorpius Launch Operations Manager for Microcosm, a firm specializing in reducing the cost of space missions. After graduation she spent four years at Los Angeles AFB where she worked on the Defense Meteorological Satellite Program. She then left for Dayton, Ohio, for her master’s Degree in Aeronautical Engineering at Wright-Patterson AFB. After a year and half there she spent the next three years at the National Air Intelligence Center. In 1996 she returned to California where she worked with experimental launch vehicles at Vandenberg AFB. In the summer of 1999 she joined the private sector at Microcosm and now lives in Rancho Palos Verdes, CA.

In a last-minute email check I found a note from Allan WRIGHT (CS34). “I separated in ’99, joined the MITRE Corporation, and have been working Intel Community computer acquisition ‘stuff’ since then. Still in the Reserves. My wife, Claire, and our 12-year-old Golden Retriever, Ginger, moved to Heidelberg, Germany in September last year. I’m working with HQ US Army Europe at the moment. Just before leaving Washington, I had a chance to catch up with CJ BEODDY, his wife, Heather, and three great kids, as they moved to D.C. for a couple ofyears. Also had occasion to work with Tony WILLIS who’s at the Air Staff now. Lastly, I

received a card from Greg ROSENMERKEL and his wife, Linda (RAYL) ROSENMERKEL. They’ve got a new baby, look great and are moving from Washington any time now. Greg’s CE outfit won Best in AF last year so he’s doing great. Not a lot of other news anyone over this way, stop by for a schnitzel!”

If you wrote me a note, TELANKS! If you’re one of the 99 percent that haven’t yet, well now’s the time!

Paul W. Tibbets, IV

102 Chennault Ave.

Barksdale AFB, LA 71110

H: (318) 746-3853/ DSN: 781-4528

E-mail: patibb@earthlink.net

Home page: http://www.usafa89.com

Hello fellow warriors! I hope this issue finds everyone in good health and high spirits. Angelle and I have big news - God blessed us with a son! Paul W. Tibbets V was born February 15, 2002, at 12:13 am, weighing a whopping nine pounds and measuring 21.5 inches long.

Proud Papa with son Paul only a few hours old.

Sister Avery is welcoming her brother with open arms, although she hasn’t quite figured out how to play with him. Paul gets a little frustrated with Avery trying to teach him “Patty cake” and “Wheels on the bus,” but one day soon he will be “teaching” Avery a few things as well! Mom is doing fine, but finding the time required to care for two kids exponendaily greater than one. Still, she manages to keep the family in top shape!

This was a historic week at Eighth Air Force. We were called early morning Tuesday, Feb 12th with shocking news - the headquarters building was on fire. Fortunately, no one was seriously injured, but in the end the roof and attic were completely destroyed and there was extensive smoke and water damage throughout the building. In true Air Force style, the base and community really came together to fight the fire and save the building. We have relocated to the annex next door and our exercise center, the CombinedAir Operations Center forTraining. The Eighth Air Force mission never missed a beat, thanks to the superb people of the “Mighty Eighth.”

Rondall RICE dropped us a letter from the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where he has completed his Ph.D. in American and Military History. On an Academy sponsorship, he will go back there to teach at some point in the future. In the meantime, Rondall, wife, Annette, and children Katie (5) and Rachel Carolina (3) are on their way to Misawa, Japan where Rondall will be ChiefofIntelligence for the 35th FighterWing. He says they will be back at USAFA by our 20th reunion to help with the planning!

My good friends Scott and Melinda MADISON send a hello from northern Illinois where Scott flies withAmerican and Melinda works as a teacher 2 V2 days a week. December was a rough month for their family as Scott’s mother passed away. Our thoughts and prayers continue to be with them, knowing Marilyn is with her Savior. In their time off Scott and Melinda like to camp and ski, although they are currently “boatless” campers. Melinda says they are working hard to change that!

In the aftermath of 9-11, Jedi Knights and Campus Rads classmate Jeff CASHMAN sent a sobering account ofhis experiences flying with the Vermont Guard. In his own words:

“When the attacks occurred, the Vermont Guard had several planes airborne on routine training missions. We recalled them and began reloading them with live armament. We had a briefing on the rules of engagement, which included the order: ‘If you intercept an airliner ramping down on a major city and are unable to establish contact, shoot to kill.’ We then had a brief tactics discussion of the best way to down an airliner. We didn’t struggle much with the ethics of that decision. We considered the passengers in such a scenario to already be dead. I’ll repeat whatwe’ve all thought: ‘This sure isn’t the war I imagined.’

Cash and the Vermont Guard overNewYork City.

“A couple of hours later I flew our first mission of Operation NOBLE EAGLE when I was launched on an Air Defense Scramble to intercept an unidentified airliner coming down from Canada. Before we completed our intercept, the aircraft was identified as no threat. We remained on station on the South shore of Lake Ontario for the rest of the afternoon, until relieved. At nightfall on the 11th, our unit accepted the mission of air defense of NewYork City. Our jets were taking gas that night from a KC-10 flown by classmate Ken ROSENQUEST. We have since maintained continuous armed combat air patrols over the City, as well as additional jets on alert, ready to launch.

“During my time over the City the next day, we chased down several unidentified light aircraft. At one point, we made a 300-foot pass at 250 knots down the Hudson River and past Ellis Island chasing a suspect helicopter. I’d like to think that sight was of some comfort to the people of NewYork. The peace- loving people of Vermont, some of whom have complained in the past about the noise of our operations, are now roused frequently by the sound of our afterburners. They seem to like it.”

Cash closes with a fitting quote from George Orwell: “We sleep safe in our beds because rough men stand ready in the night to visit violence on those who would do us harm.”

Best wishes to you and your families. Take care and God bless.

James Sanchez

8301 Emerald Circle

North Richland Hills, TX 76180

H: (817) 946-1802

E-Mail: james.sanchez@usafa90.com

WEB: USAFA90.COM

Here are updates from 12/01 - 3/02: First, Tim KANE was beat the Republican primary. He did manage to get 42 percent of the vote, though.

Mark “Gooch” GUTCHER: As you can see, I am no longer with General Mills. I’m now with the Florida Air National Guard at the Southeast Air Defense Sector at Tyndall AFB, FL. I spent a year in Toledo OH working in supply chain management at a Cereal Processingplant. Ayear in the Northeast was more than enough so I decided to move back to sunny Florida and stay. With God’s grace, I’ll be able to stay here for quite a while.

Lars LUNSFORD: My wife, Heather, and I had a baby girl (Annika) on Dec 28th. We moved to suburban Chicago back in April 2000 and I’ve been on the 757/767 with United since then. But, with the changed times, I’ll be bumped back to the 737 or Airbus 319/320. Heather and I used to spend our free time volunteering at the Shedd Aquarium in downtown Chicago. We’re hopingAnnikawill like to join us at the aquarium this summer! Other than that, I got stop-lossed from the Reserves after making major. But, my unit’s pretty laid-back... I don’t call them and they don’t call me. Couldn’t ask for a better arrangement, especially with the little one. God Bless to y’all, especially those making the big sacrifices. Jovi.

Jay UPDEGRAFF: I’m now at Dover AFB, flying the mighty C-5 Galaxy for the 3rd AS. Also working on Command Post so will probably see a lot of grads as they cycle through. Daughter Catherine just turned one and son Daniel turned five. Amazingly, my wife of 10 years, Becky, is still just 29! Also some updates on fellow 29ers for you: Kevin HOPPIN is now at Ramstein flying C-20s, and Wes HALLMAN has traded in his wings for a year of staff duty in Riyadh, Saudia Arabia (yes, it’s a remote!).

John JUDY: I am still stationed at Little Rock in the 62nd, teaching the new guys how to fly the Herk. I have to admit that I was a little jealous recently when I heard that a lot of our recent graduates are flying into all of the places in Afghanistan. On the bright side, I am sleeping in my own bed and not reading the newspaper at the same time as the guy next to me on the wonderful harvest falcon toilet. I am trying to make it a per-

manent move bygetting a full-time job with the Arkansas guard, but their jobs are harder to come by naturally since Sept 11th, so we’ll see. I may end up staying in for the long haul and trying to get to Germany or Alaska next assignment. Still enjoying marriage to my wonderful wife, Krista, and only one kiddo so far, Camille, who is almost four and never ceases to amaze me.

lim LOBASH: Hello from Louisiana, lust writing to let you know that we have moved south from Wichita Falls to the Shreveport area. I am retraining in the B-52 as an aircraft commander with a quick follow-up to instructor (as soon as all the other field-grade re-quals get a chance to go). If you know anyone who is passing through here and needs a place to stop we would love to see them.

Mathew ROUSH: Lisa and I had our second child, another boy, on the 23rd of january. We haven’t slept much since then. Still flying 757/767s for American in NYC (one below Brian Smith on the seniority list), still living in Connecticut, and still a major at McGuire AFB flying C-14 Is when the wings aren’t falling off.

Mike CONTRATTO: Laurie and I just welcomed our first child to the world. Sophia Marie Contratto was born 3 Feb during the fourth quarter of the Super Bowl. Momma, who loves football, made it all the way through the third quarter. Still flying Buffs here at Edwards and at the end of March we will pack up and head to Dyess for B-l academics for about two months before returning to Edwards. We count our blessings every day and wish the best to all Mighty ‘90ers.

Lee ARMSTRONG: I’m in Manas, Kyrgyzstan, as part of a coalition base that will soon provide air cover and humanitarian airlift for Afghanistan. Pretty interesting to be in the former Soviet Union. If anyone flies in, look me up. TALCE has my number. Brad RICE got recalled for a year and is flying with the Texas ANG/AFR C-5s. Last heard he was in Diego Garcia.

Mark GUTCHER: Greetings from The Emerald Coast of Florida. A bit of news to pass on from the home front: My second child was born today.

Mara Catherine Gutcher was born Feb 25th Mom and daughter are doing fine.

Jay FALTIN: I’ve been living in Colorado Springs for over a year now. I’m flying with United out ofDenver. After Sep.l 1th things have gotten a little shaky in the airline industry, so I’m taking military leave for a few years. I’m going to be moving to Jacksonville, FL shortly, and working for the Florida Air Guard. I bumped into Shawn BOLING a few months back at a brew pub in Denver. Small world. Sounds like he’s doing great with IBM. I’ll stay in touch, and drop me a line if you’re coming thru Florida.

Brian HASTINGS: We are in the process of PCSing to Eielson for another A-10 assignment. Last week while I was preparing for an A-10 upgrade ride at DMAFB, I was notified of my ISS selection to WHINS. So to make a very long story short, we will be PCSing to Eielson AFB for just over a year with a one-year ISS ops deferment; then we will PCS to the DLI for Spanish Fall 03, and then we will PCS to FT Benning, GA for the Western Hemisphere Institute for Security cooperation in June 04. We are very excited, but we did not expect a joint foreign language school.

James SANCHEZ: Send pictures!

Nobody sent pictures (again!) so here’s another picture of me and my son.

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND

CADET WING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED.

CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

Carson Tavenner

4414C Bighorn Drive

USAF Academy, CO 80840 (719) 472-5942

E-mail: carson.tavenner@usafa.af.mil

(Editor’s note: Carson had a fullplate with work and otherresponsihilities and could notget an input for this issue. Please send him yourinputs andphotos for the next magazine.)

Get readyfor our reunion! Our reunion will be 4-8 Sept 2002 when the Falcons take on New Mexico on the gridiron. Please visit the AOG website: www.aog-usafa.org and the Class of 1992 website: members.tripod/com/ ~usafa92/reunion2002.HTM frequently for information. It is difficult to get the word out about the reunion, so please pass this information all ‘92 grads you know. We only have 37 percent of our class as AOG members making it more difficult to get this information to everyone. ScottyNOWLIN is heading the reunion committee that is doing a lot of work to get everyone together to have a good time and tell some exaggerated stories.

The reunion committee is working hard for you and has selected the Antlers Adam’s Mark Hotel as the official hotel for the reunion. This selection was based on a lot of information and research and I know they have made a wise decision. It is not the least expensive, but several factors make it optimal: it’s very classy (second only to the Broadmoor), it’s located within walking distance of many of the best restaurants, it’s providing conference rooms free of charge, and previous classes advised if they could their reunions over, they would have selected this hotel. Finally, we’ll all be in one place almost like Vandenberg or Sijan Halls!

Real mail. Around Christmas Dan GARBER sent me a letter that got pushed aside when I sat down to write the last column; unfortunately, I’m a little late. Dan is currently doing something he vowed he would never do he’s an AOC! He never wanted to go back to USAFA, but it’s not so bad. Last August, Roman ISAJIW walked into his office and announced that he was separating and wanted to leave the AF where he entered it the Bring Me Men Ramp. Dan watched Roman walk down it and out ofthe AF, but Roman isn’t too far away as his wife, Bridget (‘91) is still in. They are nowin D.C. Jim MUELLER brought an F-15 from Mountain Home for a static display for the Class of 2005. Fred BRAVO went through IP School last fall and is at Vance (T-ls). Chuck HENDERSON is also at Vance, flyingT-37s. Fred TAYLOR got married in the USAFA chapel. He and his wife, Kimberly, are at F.E. Warren. Finally, Rich FLAKE upgraded to F-16s and is at Misawa. Dan’s closing words: “You have my word that ‘92’s standards are beingupheld, at least in my corner in Deuce.” Man, I’d hate to be in his squadron.

E-mail bag. I got a long Christmas letter from Jeff and Alisha STAMP. They have PCSed to USAFA and are helping out with the reunion. Some of their highlights include Jeffbeing at President Bush’s inauguration last year while they were in Washington DC. Since they moved to Colorado in June they have been quite busyenjoying the wonderful Pikes Peak area. Alisha is working as a full time Reservist with the 6 SOPS at Schriever AFB while Jeff is a history instructor. They sponsor two cadets and two preppies and are enjoying taking them around to the local sites like Garden of the Gods. Thanks for the update guys!

I received a long overdue email from Tim BAILEY updating his activities from graduation until now. Here are the highlights you can read his full letter on the class website. After graduation Tim was a PA officer at Pope AFB where he was on-hand for the unfortunate accident when an F-16 and C-130 collided over the runway and the C-130 ploughed into a group ofArmy troops at the end of the runway. Tim worked with Gen Hugh Shelton (then Fort Bragg commander) and the wing commander for their appearances on CNN, CBS, NBC, and ABC. He next went to

Osan AB for a year and returned to do a special duty assignment as assistant editor of Airman Magazine. He had several articles published and got to interview Gen Ryan twice. Another interesting aspect of that job was to work with Hollywood producers providing AF support to films like AirForce One and A Perfect Storm. In December 2000, Tim got out to work for Applied Materials in Austin, TX. When the tech industry collapsed, Tim found himself unemployed shortly after the 9/11 attacks. Since then he has been doing some acting in the growing film industry in Austin. He has even started writing screen plays and hopes to direct a few independent films. Tim comes from a very “blue” family with a strong USAFA tradition. His father, Greg (colonel, Ret), is a ‘67 grad and his mother, Margie, is a Reserve colonel and an associate AOG member. His brother Gregory (‘00) is at UPT; brother-in-law Capt James McGregor (‘97) is an air weapons controller AWACS; and his other brother-in-law Shawn McGregor is a soon-to-be 2nd Lt from the class of 2002. Quite a USAFA tradition! Thanks for the update, Tim. Just don’t wait another 10 years to write...

My old Edwards roommate Lyle SHIDLA and I exchanged a few emails lamenting the demise of our NFL teams this season. Lyle is still working in Boston but has been putting in a lot of Reserve time since September. Most recently he was at NATO HQ for a week in February. The Air Force gives him a nice change of scenery from the high-tech business world.

Old Tarantulas. Last issue, I told you Michelle and I visited Steve and KayWOLF in Hawaii and they were expecting an addition to their family. Well, Richard Andrew Wolf arrived safely into the world on 10 Feb 2002. Unfortunately, Steve’s unit deployed to Okinawa for seven months the week before, but the Marines let him stay behind to be with Kay and Andy for a whole week before he had to deploy. And, we think the Marines are not sensitive...

SOS buddy! Chris FREYwrote to me just as I was gettingready to email my column to the AOG... so I was forced to rewrite to make it under the word limit. He was writing to me from a beach chair on the tip of the Sinai about 20 feet from the gentle surf of the Red Sea. After we were at SOS together, he got non-volunteered to teach ROTC at Clarkson University in northern NY. The assignment was better than he expected. How many AF jobs allow you to take advantage of midweek skiing prices? And he really enjoyed working with cadets. He separated Sept 2000 and got into the international construction business. After jobs in Australia, New Zealand, Hawaii, Denver, and Boise, he ended up in Egypt where he’s been working for the past year. Brett GOODWIN actually hooked him up with this job. He’s not sure how long he’d be there, but hopes to make it to the reunion.

It turns out that Leigh Merola (‘91) was roommates with Chris’ girlfriend and she was at the marathon with them... small world. Thanks Chris!

The reunion is just around the corner. Remember to make reservations to be in Colorado 4-8 September. Hey, there’s only one 10-year reunion and wouldn’t you like to get the chance to eat in Mitchell Hall again? Finally...congratulations to the Class of2002. True Blue‘92. James.

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

Hey welcome to the summer ‘93! One more year to our 10-year class reunion! Unbelievable! Things are going well here at McGuire AFB, but very busy. Haven’t had much time at home since all the activity started. I am actually at 36,000 feet on my way to Rota, Spain as I write this. Lori and Collin are getting ready for the summer. Since I missed Christmas

and NewYears’, we are going to Dallas for Easter. I am currently the training flight commander for the 6th AS and flying the metal off of the C-141B.

Our article is going to be shorter due to the fact that I am limited to 1,200 words now per the AOG. Luckily, I have the right amount of updates for that. Thanks to all ofyou who have sent me your addresses and emails. My address book is slowly getting back up to speed.

Tom HERMEL admits he has finally worked up enough money to join the AOG. Congratulations Torn! Glad to have you! Looking forward to seeing you at next year’s reunion. He updates us from Fairchild AFB where he is flying the KC-135 Stratotanker (primary mission air refuelingsorry I slipped into Contrails for a second). He plans on staying in for a full 20 and beyond, provided (he admits) the Air Force is willing to keep him. He enjoys flying with many ‘93 graduates, one of which is Paul ALFONZO. Tom will be getting married this summer to a wonderful Canadian gal at USAFA. From what I hear, Tom is beginning to pick up the Canadian accent. He especially likes saying the letter “A” after everything now. Best wishes on your wedding (24 Aug 02) and congratulations from your entire class!

Woody WOODHEAD checks in and updates us on some of his fellow CS-29 Black Panthers. Woody is at Tinker for another three months and then will be heading to the fabulous tropical paradise of Osan, Korea. He enjoyed 80 days of blistering sun and tent life on the initial Operation Enduring Freedom AWACS deployment. Woody will also be getting married on 6 Apr 02 to Mandi Brader from Oklahoma City! Wow, I knew it was spring, but we are two for two on emails and marriages.

Jason FOGEL and TJ COURTNEY are two ofhis groomsmen. Jason is out of the Air Force and working for KPMG in Dayton, OH. I hope he does much better than the guys who represented Enron -1 am just kidding everyone! TJ is also out of the AF and was activated for two years in the Reserves. He is at Tinker for the time being. Pat THOMPSON is back from Kadena flying tankers. Pat is flying KC-135s at Altus AFB with Jason CANADA. Jason and Jennifer have three kids. Pat and Jason got back from their tour at Kadena AB, Japan in January. Thanks for the great update.

Beau ROGERS enlightens us on some recent Weapons’ School graduates. Recent graduates from the last weapons school are Beau “Riddler” ROGERS, Alex “Grynch” GRYNKEWICH, Ben “Billy Ray” BRADLEY. O.J. “Slider” SANCHEZ was a distinguished graduate. Dave GRAFF is back as an F-15 Weapons School instructor and Rick “SPEEDY” is back as an F-16 Weapons School instructor. All of these individuals are seeking the coveted dream assignment of being Naval Aviators at Miramar. Grynch is going to Kunsan, Billy Ray is going to Luke AFB for three years and the Riddler is going back to Misawa AB for one more year. Congratulations to all the recent weapons school graduates. Beau you are still the man!!

Josh DAGCUTA - long time no hear! Glad to see that you are checking with a great update. Josh has been out of the Air Force since 1998, but he is still a part of the inactive Reserves. He has been thinking about hooking up with a Guard unit at Moffat Field, but he has been pretty busy with his new career. Josh is an engineering project manager and has worked on everything from Telecom projects (Nortel Networks) to digital music (LiquidVideo). Now he is working on something called biometric recognition at airports. His current project involves Los Angeles International. If everything works well he may be developing the standard to fit all airports across the U.S. Wow! You ‘da man Josh!! He is unmarried and, yes, no children. He recently purchased a home in San Francisco.

Anne TRUITT was in town several months back. She is doing great. She will be graduating from George Washington University for medical school. She is currently shopping for surgical residency. Stanford, Harvard, USC. Trent CARPENTER has left Oklahoma City and headed for Utah. He’ll be stepping out of the AWACS world for a while. He and his wife, Jo, have a beautiful little girl. Judd SANCHEZ is out of the AF as well and got an MBA from UCLA. He now works for Disney and lives in L.A. Okay, is he the “real” Mickey Mouse? Vu TRAN is out of the AF too and is manager with XO Communications. It’s a big internet service provider in San Jose, CA. He has been working there for about three years. Vu is married and expecting a little one in a few months. Anthony MARTINEZ is out of the AF too (I see a trend Josh) and living Denver, CO.

Chris Frey, his girlfriend, and Leigh Merola (‘91) at the finish oftheAthens Marathon, Fall 2001.

He ran for, but unfortunately lost, the Colorado Secretary of State bid. He did get together with some bigwigs involved with the Blue Mountain greeting cards and is developing a string of movie theaters that play current and older movies translated into Spanish! He has opened his first Latino cinema and is currently targeting other areas of opportunity! Thanks for the awesome update Josh!

Drew WALTON checks in on the Highflight web site. He lives near Rocklin, CA with his wife, Christina, and sons Matthew and Timothy. He separated in 1997 and works for Hewlett Packard writing firmware for a line of high-end servers called Superdome. Wow - between you and Josh that’s pretty high-powered stuff!

Jeff KUBIK also updates us on the Highflight web site. He is a principal information assurance engineer with Northrop Grumman IT TASC. Jeff wants to become the first cyber “ace” of‘93.

I would like to apologize to Jason MILLS for not being able to make his wedding or even call to RSVP. I am a bad ex-roomy. Congratulations on your wedding to Julaine. I missed seeing Burt and Penny. I promise I will be in touch as soon as possible. I can't wait to hear about all the good stuff from the wedding.

I talked with Jo SUCICH for a bit. He is doing well and has recently been hired by the San Antonio C-5 Reserves. He, Kristin and the family are doing well. Hopefully we can see them when Lori and I go to Dallas.

The McGuire Clan is doing well. Ken EDGE is leaving for TACC in May. He is currently the CCTS flight commander in the 6th Steve ODUM, Dane CHRISTIANSON, and Lance ORR are doing well. Lance is actually in the desert for another rotation. Hi Manu and Liam! I ran into Bill CLIFF and Kim (INFANGER) CLIFF at the enlisted club at McGuire. I have been meaning to get with him and get the scoop on any other grads.

Well we just landed and I need to get the letter into the AOG’s finest (a.k.a. Tom Kroboth). Thanks for the fine work ’93 and I will see you next time! Best summer wishes - Mike.

C. C. Masotti

7608 Southern Oak Drive

WSpringfield, VA 22153

H: (703) 644-4332

W: (703) 697-1383 or DSN 227-1383

Fax: (703) 695-8884 or DSN 225-8884

E-mail: bowhead94@hotmail.com

Wow—do I miss summer vacation! For those still in the military, we’ve been captains as long as we were lieutenants and we’ve been “out” twice as long as we were cadets! Now the class of 2002 is graduating and the class of ‘06 is prepping for BCT. Scary how time flies, isn’t it? It’s amazing how much has happened to us since graduation growing families, countless travels, long deployments, new job opportunities, advanced degrees, and more. Speaking of expanding families, I heard from Brian and Jen (RUSS) MORRISON, who are wrapping up a threeyear tour at Maxwell, but still found time to add a bouncing baby boy to the Morrison crew. On 10 January, they welcomed John Andrew Russ “Drew” into the world, making Jack (3) a reluctant, but eventually proud and happybig brother. They included a great familyphoto with the birth announcement, as well as some terrific updates.

Brian, Jen, andJack Morrison welcome Drew to theirfamily.

In addition to parenthood, Brian and Jen have been busy with work. He’s a Wargame Director at the College ofAerospace Doctrine, Research, and Education (CADRE); she’s been at OTS the whole time originally as a flight training officer, and most recently as an exec. Since all roads in the AF seem to lead to Maxwell, the Morrisons see their share of grads, including Mark and Jodi MITCHELL (Vance), and their little ones, Gehrig and Gabrielle. Byron MIRANDA headed through before deploying to Germany to work command post operations in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and is reportedly planning to tie the knot soon.

Kyle and Rachel SANDERS also rotated through and are now settled in Denver with their Christmas Eve baby, Clayton Pauling a spitting image of his daddy. Others that have made it there for SOS are Elliot SALMON (Hanscom), Mike MILLER (Germany), Paul ABAIR (USAFA exec), Dave MINEAU (#1 SOS Grad) and Deb REUTHER (Weapons School DG, now at Langley), among others. In addition to those folks, Brian and Jen keep in touch with others via email, including Jodi (DEMARTALAERE) and Mike RAMIREZ and Dr. Adelle BELISLE. Jodi and Mike separated from the AF a few years ago and live in Minnesota near Jodi’s parents. Busy raising sons Tyler and Christian, Mike is in the Reserves recruiting high school students for the Academy and Jodi works part-time in CE. Adelle is enjoying Connecticut and stays busy with her residency at UCONN, playing Ms. Fix-it (Dr. Fix-it?) with her new house, and dispensing much appreciated medical advice to pregnant classmates like Jen!

I also got a sweet note from singer-songwriter Paula THORSON, who is enjoying life inWisconsin with her family and looking for new ways to share her many gifts. Paula and I were thrilled to hear from our dear friend Kathy CLEVELAND, who recentlyaccepted Gregg LEISMAN’s marriage proposal. They plan to marry this summer and hope for a join-spouse assignment at Edwards. Kathy also reported that fellow CS-34 grad Jen KAEPPLER (Columbia MD) is engaged to marry her beau Larry this September.

Keeping it in the “Loosehawg” family, I also heard from Trace THURLBY, who shared a family photo Trace with daughter Hannah and twin brother Jeff (flight surgeon, Vance) with son Luke. Jeff and his family will move to San Antonio this summer so he can start his residency in anesthesia. Trace and Kristen love parenthood and the civilian life and plan to stay in California for awhile.

Although he doesn’t yet have the option to stay in one place, Rocky FAVORITO took time to write from Wright-Pat before he PCSes to the 4th Comm Sq at Seymour Johnson this summer and deploys almost immediately thereafter... In early March, Rocky went to USAFA to celebrate Coach EddieWeichers’ 25 years as theAcademy’s lone boxingcoach, along with Matt and Jamie (DAHLGREN, ’95) GLOVER, Arturo ALVARADO (all the way from Guatemala!), Joe PASTORELLO, Tony DiCARLO (’95), and Chris IANTAGNE (’96), among others. Our prize fighters honored their coach who, in the past 22 years, has never had a team finish lower than second nationally and may have earned another national championship by the time this goes to print!

Another classmate on the move is Jeff LINGENS, who is an exchange officer in the UK and loving life with his bride, Dawn (originally from England), and their dual-citizen bundles of joy, Amy (2) and Sean (3 months). Jeff asked about our class homepage, expertly maintained by

The Thurlbykids with theirproud papas.

BoxingchampsArturoAlvarado, Matt Glover, andRockyFavorito gather to celebrate theircoach.

Chuck BAIRD in between his month-long stints on a Russian drilling ship off the coast of Brazil. In addition to his travels and computing, Chuck has been writing up a storm, finishing his fourth book a novel called Class Warrior, which will be available for sale on USAFA.net soon.

Chuck McGREGOR (CIO/Technology Director, Perot Systems) and Joe CLOWERS (consultant) both checked in from Charlotte NC, asking classmates in the area to look them up. And Chuck and Kari proudly reported that their son Robby (2) is now a big brother to Miss Mia Paige McGregor. Also expanding their family were Carrie (BISCHEL) and Joel (West Point ’95) JENSEN, who brought Julia into the world last September to join Noah (2 Vz) and Jonny (1 Vz) and are expecting baby #4 this November. The Jensen clan claims Waukesha WI as home, where Joel works for GE (previously a USAFA Prep School instructor); Carrie is a “full-time student (of parenting); teacher (of three little ones); nighttime navigator (going through hallways from one bedroom to another); war zone fixer-upper (every night after the kids go to bed basically a full-time mommy.”

Other civilian ’94ers checking in included Mike and Lisa RITZMAN, who are excited about his new job as a production supervisor for Premium Building Products (division of Alside Corporation) and Sloan and Kim HENDERSON, who are settling at Eglin since he got a Civil Service job in his old program management office. The D.C. area seems to draw a lot of prior military types and it’s been no different with our class, as both Paul WAGNER (systems engineer) and David REYES (assistant superintendent for a development/management/construction company) call the Capitol region home. I don’t want to give the impression that the only people who check our homepage are out of the service, as that’s not the case at all. Jennifer (CHANGERY) GUESS (biology instructor and more, USAFA) is still in, although she gets to act like a civilian for a few years. She leaves the Academy this summer along with her six “kids” (one dog, four cats, and an iguana) to pursue an AFIT-sponsored PhD, with plans to return to USAFA in ’08.

P-3 pilot Angie (ERICKSON) BAKER wrote from NAS Whidbey Island WA, where she recently moved to be stationed with her husband, a fellow P-3 driver; they’ve both worked hard in support of OEF. Another warfighter among us is A-10 pilot John COMMINS, who checked in from Davis-Monthan. Of course, our page is only as good as we make it, so please take the time to write in and update your information some of us have info that dates back to our lieutenant days in there!

In addition to the emails, letters, and homepage updates, I’m lucky enough to see some of you on occasion, including Mike BAUTISTA, who was in “the building” the other day. He is now training to be one of the newest Presidential Advance Agents. That will only be an additional duty for him, on top of his flying duties (KC-135, Altus) with Dan COZZI and Dave POPE (’93), to name a few. Of course, all ofthat takes second place to family time with Jen (MAYERS, ’95), Allison and Jamie.

Fred CUNNINGHAM will join Mike and others in the KC-135 after his stint here as an AF Intern, heading to Robins with his wife Melissa (DAVIDSON, ’96). I got to witness Fred’s first KC-135 ride in February, when we escorted CMSAF Finch and 25 foreign Senior NCOs to Nellis for their Firepower Demonstration and a base orientation. In addition to getting to see Lance Burton and Wayne Newton (for work, really!), Fred and I ran into Thunderbird Right Wing Chris CALLAHAN and congratulated him on his recent engagement. We were bummed that we missed his teammate, Thunderbird Flight Surgeon Dr. Dave STEINHE1SER, but Chris promised to give him our best. After we returned to D.C., Fred ran into Todd STEARNS at George Washington University, but didn’t share any further details of the encounter.

I did, however, get an update from a guy that looked amazingly like Sean SINGLETON (but assured me he wasn’t!), that James “Big Daddy” DAVIS (Hanscom) was in the D.C. area for an ACQ 201 course at Ft Belvoir. James is living up to his nickname, as a proud husband and father of two. While here, he saw John GIFFT, a lawyer for the Department of Commerce celebrating his recent victory over the NewYork bar exam. Another legal-type in the area is registered patent agent Tom ROZYLOWICZ, who squeezes night law school between work and time with his wife, Kim, and kids Andy (4), Kalee (2), and Kristin Michele (born 13 Mar 02) in Annapolis. After four years in the Pentagon and two at Ft Meade, Tom decided to pursue patent law; soon after his Dec graduation, he hopes to be able to call himself a patent attorney. Tom and Kim have promised a great picture after Kristen’s christening this June, so look for it in the next column!

Once again, I’m out of room! Remember that my door is always open to you if you find yourself in the D.C. area! Take care & God Bless! C.C.

Don Kang

PSC 3, Box 3874

APO AP 96266

(031) 661-4430

BudaF16@yahoo.com

By the time this prints, we will have completed our good work in Afghanistan and most of our classmates in harm’s way should be back at home in our great nation. On behalf of all good Americans - thank you and welcome home. The war is not over, however. Wherever or whenever the nation calls us, it gives me pride to know that leading the tip of the spear will be dudes who lived in my hall, marched tours with me, or drove me home from O’Malley’s. Unbelievable!

On to the updates: Jeremy DURTSCHI is married and his wife is expecting a child. He is an F-15E instructor at Seymour Johnson. Jason BAILEY is going through UPT at Laughlin. Mike JOHNSTON is at Kunsan flyingVipers. Kenyon BELL is the Panton maintenance officer at Kunsan. Curtis HUDSON is working hospital administration at Dover AFB.

Joe “Moca” DIFIDI writes from Lakenheath, England where he flies F15Es in the 492 nd FS. Other “Madhatters” include my old roommate Jim "Toast” STUMBO, Alan “Rucky” THODE, Joe CAUTERO, and Keith TURNER. Keith and his wife, Gwennan, are expecting a third child. Damon “Shotgun” ANTHONY just got back from FWIC and is the 492nd ’s new Weapons Officer. “Moca” goes on to write that JeffWEEKS is an intel officer at Mildenhall. My old freshman roommate, Nick “Cat” GUTTMAN will soon finish up at Fighter Weapons School and assume duties flying light grays as the 493rd FS’ new Weapons Officer. Chris “Allah” ZULKE is at theWIC now, finishing up and on his way to Seymour Johnson to teach the next crop of Mud Hen pilots. In the 494th FS, Varun “Stinger” PURI and Doug “Pit Boss” BARTELS are front-seaters in F-15Es. “Pit Boss” is the 494th ’s Weapons Officer.

Chris “Raz’n” KANE is back at Eglin flying light grays after a quick stint at Camp Red Cloud. Jim and Steve ALEXANDER are both at Eglin as well. Jim flies MC-130s and Steve is in the VIPER test program. Jim spent 100+ days “over yonder” doing the dirty work since mid-September. Fly safe Jim. Jason DUKES is a civilian now working for NASA. Bill SIMMONS is a maintenance officer at Tinker. Tony “2-Tall” DICARLO is an F-4 instructor at Holloman AFB. Greg HOPKINS is a UPT instructor pilot.

www.aog-usafa.org

Pete Michaelson with wife, Susan, Eliana, and Brandon.

Pete MICHAELSON dropped me a line from San Antonio where his is completing his residency in Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery at Wilford Hall Medical Center. Right now, he is halfway through his internship of general surgery, with four more years ahead. Pete is married with two kids. Louis GUILLERMO, my old hell master (‘94 guy who took a year off to graduate with ‘95), and Loren JONES will also complete their residency there. Shane GARRETT and Chris NAGY are at Wilford Hall, as well. Pete writes that Shane STEINKE (F-15E backseater) and his new wife, Kristen, are on their way to Elmendorf, AK, just as soon as Shane finished up Weapons School at Nellis.

Matt MELOENYwrote me from McChordwith an update from the heavy world. Matt reminds us all that fighter guys are cool and all, but don’t forget about the T-Tail Mafia hauling rubber doggy doo out ofHong Kong! Matt’s a C-17 instructor pilot and he’s been busyflying his butt off in support of OEF, but not too busy to get married on March 30th Matt - let me tell you, that extra $150 you get a month from Uncle Sam for being married just doesn’t cut it! By the way, Matt - remember that (God willing), we’ll all be flying heavies one day, fast mover and slow mover alike... saying “Buh-Bye” 300 times after every non-stop flight. Brian BARTEE is also flying C-17s at McChord. RobBRADEENisanALOatFtLewis. Trevor MILLER is flying KC-lOs out of Travis. Jeff SOUZA is there, as well, flying C-5s. Harmon LEWIS is flying C-17s out ofCharleston. Mike SNODGRASS

is doing the same at Altus. Dan HALSTED is in C-130s out of Dyess. Emmett MCCLINTOCK is a civilian working as a civil engineer for an airfield construction company in eastern Siberia. Brian “Stinky”

MCCLANAHAN is also a civilian, married with children in Louisiana. Rob KINERSON and his wife Tiffany is at Nellis flying UAVs.

Matt passed on a special story about how he was assigned to McChord. Seems that Matt was working an assignment out of Charleston to get to McChord, where his future wife would be a C-17 pilot. The Air Force, in its infinite wisdom and global situational awareness, non-volunteered him instead to fly UAVs at Nellis. Drowning his sorrows in a bar one night, he told his story to Sam VANZANTEN, who decided to take Matt’s UAV assignment and let Matt be with his bride-to-be at McChord. So Sam is now a Predator pilot at Nellis and Matt will be happily married by the time you read this. Sam - this is the rare kind of stuff that keeps me from regretting going to the zoo instead of UCLA. If any of you see Sam in a bar, please buy him a beer.

My old roommate Scott CARRELL finally sent me a line from grad school at the University of Florida, Gainesville. Scott will go back to the hill to teach in the Economics Department. Last time I saw Scott, we were dressed up as Elvis’ in Vegas five years ago. He was the Elvis, circa 1972, and I was the Korean Elvis... thought it would help us meet girls. Now he’s grown up, married, with an 18-month-old son. His brother Rich CARRELL is a navigator at Kadena and is also married with two kids. Joel STEPHENS is completing C-130 school. MattyWALL is a civilian working for Varco Drilling Equipment in Houston.

Scott Carrell, with Susie and Zach.

Paul “Morning” WOOD wrote me from Ellsworth, where he is a Weapons Officer in B-ls. Three months after finishing BWIC, Morning was off to Diego Garcia to fly missions in support of OEF. I was happy to hear that he made it home in time for Christmas with his wife, Sandra, who gave birth to their second daughter while Morning was overseas. Thank you, Morning, for your good work.

Remember John “Griff” GRIFFITHS? Griff is a civilian now working Air Traffic Control with the FAA at Kansas City Center. Griff and his wife, Brooke, will be the proud parents of a new baby boy by the time you all read this. Any of you out there cruising over MCI airspace on AR330 or AR318, give out a shout if you hear Griff’s voice.

Matt “Big Pimpin’’ LOWE dropped me a line from the “Whup, Whup” world. Matt just finished helo training and is headed to Kirtland for HH60 Pave Hawk training. After that, he is on his way to Iceland. Curt GREEN will fly Pave Hawks with the Guard in San Francisco. Mike MIRANDA and Bill BAIRD are Huey IPs at Ft Rucker. “Big Pimpin’’ passes on that Dave RAMIREZ is an SP at Hurlburt. Matt WADD is also an SP at Offutt. “Big Pimpin’’ wanted me to remind all the fighter guys that the rescue guys are always out there looking out for us in case the worst happens. I tell you what, Matt - if you guys are ever out at Osan, you’ll never go thirsty. On behalf of all the fast-movers thanks for the pick up!

I tried to get this in last issue, but in case it didn’t make it in time... Big Ed Hopkins wrote me from Tucson, AZ. Big Ed’s out of the Air Force now, married with two kids, and owns his own financial consulting company. He wanted me to pass on an open invite to any ‘95er passing through Tucson for a dinner and/or drink. His contact information is at www.criterion.fm Ed’s doingreally well, so I encourage you to take him up on his offer (lotta nice restaurants in Tucson).

Finally, I'm still here at Osan flying the mighty VIPER in the 36lh FS with about a million other ‘95ers: Ryan SPARKMAN, Jim COLLINS, Chris JONES, Mike MAY and Steve BOATRIGHT. Apparently, there is something in the water at Osan... mywife, Cristina, will pickle in August - hoping for a boy (or a girl). Bill BETTS will have had his second son by the time you read this. Doug W1CKERT is a new dad. Mike BARTEN is the proud new father of a baby girl. Matt LILJENSTOLPE’s wife is pregnant with their third kid. Chad FEUCHT will be welcoming his second child home. Yeesh!

Mike Barten with brand new daughter, Maddy (7pounds, 3 ounces, full head ofhair). Mother and daughterjustfine, father - exhausted.

Until next time, good luck to you from the baby factory we call the Republic ofKorea. Keep the emails coming (sts) to budafl6@yahoo.com. Send me some more pictures (just make sure that the resolution is very high). Still looking for airborne hero shots from several of you. I’m off now to Maxwell AFB, AL, so that I can learn to become a better air and space leader at the Air Force Finishing School for Aspiring Aerospace Warriors - I’ll let you guys know what I find out next issue (don’t miss it... could be some good comedy). Check Six - Harrumph!!

Melissa S. Cunningham

9712 Hidden Valley Road

Vienna, VA 22181 (703) 319-4048/DSN 223-9122

E-mail: Melissa.cunningham@pentagon.af.mil or Fmcunningham@aol.com

Greetings from, well, by the time this article goes to print, I will be looking for a new home in Warner Robins, GA. Fred and I will leave the Pentagon mid-June and drive south. I’m headed to the 54th Combat Comm Squadron and Fred is switching airframes to fly the KC-135. We are very excited because Fred’s brother Matt (‘97) and his wife, Lisa, are also stationed there. Fred is alreadyworking me to let him get a “bigger” Harley Davidson since we are not going overseas. Contract negotiations have begun, but we’ll see. We are also ready to get out of the office jobs and back into the field. Its been frustrating being stuck behind a desk during the last year feeling like you could offer more of a contribution elsewhere, but I am sure this summer, we will still be busy.

I must admit, being non-deployable has had its benefits like not having to take leave to ensure you will be home over a three-day weekend. Over President’s Day weekend, Melissa BAUMANN and I were able to host the “Weekend ofWomen.” We had a mini 96-reunion as a bunch of the girls met in D.C. to throw a little engagement party for Melissa and Ben Phillips and to celebrate Lori EDINGER’s (RASMUSSEN) birthday. We also had a chance to hit a spa and catch a show. After the show, we headed to downtown D.C. for dinner and who should we run into? None other than Kelsey CHRISTOPHER. She just left the Air Force and is working at the Department of Labor. She was recently married to a grad (‘91, I think) and is definitely enjoying married life.

In the top row from left are TracyDupree, Jennifer Hammerstedt, Lori Rasmussen, and Melissa Cunningham. Bottom Row: Jennifer Caballero, Ben Phillips, Kerre Scarborough, and Gwen Rutherford.

This was a good time! Because Ben and Mel are headed off to Hawaii for their Honeymoon following their June l sl wedding, we thought we’d have a little luau to celebrate their engagement. So we had a “Let’s Get Lei-d” party. It was a lot of fun, probably too much, so I can only show you the unclassified photos.

Now for the update: Jennifer HAMMERSTEDT is at Langley AFB working as an Exec. Her roommate from the Zoo, Jennifer SPINDLE (Caballero), is stationed with Tom CABELLERO at Hanscom AFB. Both are feverishly trying to complete master’s degrees while working full time. I can empathize. Gwen DEFLIPPI (Rutherford) is stationed at the Pentagon working as an analyst in OSD. Her most recent accomplishment was giving birth to her second daughter, Margaret Patricia. And true to form, Gwen is in amazing shape. She is also attending GeorgeWashington University at night to knock out her master’s. Kerre ELLIS (Scarborough) is completing F-16 training at Luke and will be off to Osan AB, Korea this summer. Andi VINYARD, who could not make it in from England, will also be going to Korea for a year. But her remote is to the Kun. Following that rotation, Andi hopes to secure a tour back to USAFE preferably to Ramstein. Lori EDINGER (Rasmussen) is finally (after six years) stationed with her husband Reid RASMUSSEN. They are both IPs at Columbus AFB adjusting to the southern hospitality. Theyjust bought their first home, so Lori is having a great time decorating while Reid stays busy on the golf course. After her visit to D.C., Lori had her first ride with a student. She said that it was great that her first student did not try to kill her, but it was stressful because her VOR (navigation aid) went out when they were far away from the base. Of course, Lori handled it well.

Erik and Tracy Coyne

Tracy DUPREE (Coyne) is currently working her way through Intel school. She cross-trained last Oct from Personnel and is keeping fingers crossed for an assignment to the Washington DC area so that she and Erik can share the same zip code. Hopefully, she’ll get the assignment soon. Erik just PCSed from England and is now working over at Bolling AFB. He is still doing great things in services and waiting patiently for Tracy to finish Intel school and get out here.

Another ‘96er that stopped by was Gavin MARKS. Gavin is finishing up his rotation at the Pentagon and will report to Tinker this June for E-3 training. Gavin, Johan DEUTCHER, and I are struggling through four grad classes right now as we double up to finish before we leave D.C. He sort ofequated finishing this degree to recognition. Every once in a while, our man Gavin tools out and gives us the days until recognition. Cooperate and graduate some things never change

family and friends that came to help them celebrate because there is so much to do. Nicole relayed that it was a dream wedding, horse-drawn carriage and all. They were even able to incorporate some of Paul’s Polish heritage into the wedding and I guess the vodka shots were, of course, the crowd pleaser.

Following the wedding, Nicole and Paul headed to California for a twoweek vacation. Theyspent a majority oftheir time touring microbreweries (over 10) in San Francisco, and only had time to hit two wineries in Napa Valley. Gotta question that time management Nicole. But I guess that gives you an excuse to head back to Napa.

She brought me up to date on the 336th FS at Seymour Johnson. Flying is great and they fly all the time. Steve D’AMICO just left the squadron for his new assignment as a T-38 IP at Sheppard. Paul and Jen HEITMEYER also left for Sheppard where he will be an IFF AT-38 instructor. Scott LOGAN was on his way to Weapons School at Nellis. Tim and Lisa FERENSCHAK left this spring for his next F-15E tour at RAF Lakenheath, UK. The only ‘96ers left are Nicole and Brian PARDEE. Brian should be getting an assignment soon and then shipping off this summer. Nicole will have to hold down the fort until some of you guys rotate to SC.

I ran into Andrew SERIFIN last week on the metro. He is still working for Checkmate as a contractor in the Pentagon. He was filling me in on Yotula CHILIGARIS’s wedding last spring. I guess it was a three-day party so I can’t wait to see the pictures send them ifyou got them. Tons ofMighty Mach 1 folks and gals from the swim team made appearances. Gwen and Burt RUTHERFORD made the trip. Meg MARTIN (C-17s at Charleston) was there and even Casey KORNISH (ERIKSON) came from England. Newsflash: Casey and Oli ERIKSON are expecting their first child this fall.

On a more somber note, Brian RIZZOLI passed away last February in a C-21 mishap. For those of us from CS 37, it was an incredible blow. This comes just shy of a year after Justin SANDERS' death. His wife, Jennifer RIZZOLI ‘95 and his daughter, survive Brian. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Rizzoli’s, the Sanders’, and the Skyraiders who loved them.

My next article will be coming to in the midst of a PCS. Please send me your info early so that I can get it to the Checkpoints editor before the movers pack up my computer. Keep the emails, letters, and pictures coming. The AOG accepts digital photos now, too, so feel free to attach them to your emails. Those ofyou in Afghanistan or other interesting places send us your stories. Those of us with desk jobs live vicariously through you. That’s all for now. Take care, Love, Harley.

Melvin E. Maxwell, Jr.

PSC #80, Box 17707

APO AP 96367-7707

W: melvin.maxwell@kadena.af.mil

H: mel_maxwell97@hotmail.com

DSN: 315-632-9150

Commercial: 011-81-6117-32-9150

Hey everybody! Summer is fast approaching and for a number of people that means PCS time. For others, even greater change is in store as we reach that five-year point and begin making the transition to the civilian world. My roommate Jamie MAUNZ is leaving the F-15 cockpit for a while to be Jump Air Liaison Officer. He actually volunteered for it and really wants to do it. He departs Kadena in mid-April and is on to Ft. Benning, GA for Jump School before school at Nellis and then eventuallyVicenza, Italy.

My old roommate Brad HOLTMEIER is one person who has made the decision to get out. He talked me into skipping the Dean’s Call senior year and then laughed as I did 15 tours... clearly questionable duty concept (a little cadet-roommate humor)! He is planning on staying in the Los Angeles area after completion of the University of Southern California MBA program which he will tell you (without you asking) is one of

Paul and Nicole Malachowski on their weddingdaylast October.

Other news: I just got an update from Nicole (ELLINGWOOD) Malachowski. Try to say that name fast three times. She is settling in to the center of American culture, Seymour Johnson AFB, NC. But life is wonderful. On 7 Oct 01, she married her best friend, Paul Malachowski, in Charleston, SC. Neither is from Charleston, but they had visited there often and enjoyed its charm. The location also made it easy to entertain

From left are Jaime Maunz, Brad Holtmeier, our friend Patti, Mel, and our buddy Chris in the wee hours in Tokyo, Japan.

the top MBA programs in the country. This past March he was in Tokyo as part of the program to study international business. Jamie and I popped up for one weekend to visit Brad and some of his classmates.

Speaking of Tokyo, I was recently at Yokota AB, where I saw JD SCOTT who was on his way to flying helos at Kirtland AB, New Mexico.

Ian TATE dropped me an email updating me from McConnell. He upgraded to AC last summer with Denver COLI-INS, Dave MORGAN, and Mike RAMBO. Ian and his wife, Jennifer have two children now, two and two months, and are expecting to PCS to Yokota this summer to fly C21 s. Denver flies ‘135s out of Mildenhall. He and his wife are adopting two boys from Sierra Leone in addition to the two girls theyalready have. Dave was recently married and should have a child on the way. Mike wed this past fall. Ian attended Flight Safety Officer School at Kirtland last fall with Aaron PEPKOWITCZ who is at Whiteman flying B2s and plans to tie the knot this coming summer. At McConnell with Ian are Brian GILPATRICK, recently married to Kendra, who should be upgrading to KC-135 IP soon; Donny STARLING whose an IN, married to Holly, and will probably be PCSing to Eielson AFB; Dan HILL and wife, Carrie; as well as KoreyVaughn (WATKINS). Korey was lucky enough to be a large part of Enduring Freedom for the tankers. Ian also passed on Mike STAPLETON just arrived to McConnell from UPT after serving in Space Command, Chris DAVIS just recently PCSed to Laughlin to be a T-37 IP, and Young KIM recently PCSed to Kadena to continue as a KC135 AC.

Speaking of Kadena KC-135s, John KRUCZYNSKI recently returned from AC upgrade school and dropped some names on me. Kruz is on his way to Robins shortly as is Heather HALL who is currently at Mildenhall. Carrie MANGAN is on her way to Mildenhall from Mountain Home. Kruz popped down to Little Rock and saw Rob ODOM and Alf MARTINEZ flying C- 130s out of Pope. Thad MIDDLETON is also flying C-130s, only out of Dyess. Kruz also passed Mark WASKOW is a B-I WSO, JR CARLSON is flying tankers out of McConnell, and Brandt HOUSE is flying tankers in Grand Forks.

Well, that is folks... short and sweet. It’s a busy time. Let us all know how you’re doing out there... holler!

One final, somber note. I’ve just been informed via the AOG that we recently lost one of our own. Sadly, Luke A. JOHNSON died in an F-16 crash on 20 March 2002 near Spangdahlem AB, Germany. In his senior blurb, Luke said about the Academy, “If there is one thing I will take from this place, it is a value of a good family and a few close drinking buddies.” Here’s a toast...

Well, I’ve hit my limit. Until next time.. .Mel

Karin (Klein) McWhorter

9811 E. Cisco Court Tucson, AZ 85748

H: (520) 885-8697/W: (520) 228-3829

W: karin.mcwhorter@dm.af.mil

Happy Summer ’98,

I hope everyone had fun with their pin-on ceremonies, promotion parties, or at least had fun spending their raise! This article is going to be very short because I only have two submissions. As soon as you finish reading this, please take a couple minutes to send me a short email and let me know what you are up to. Pictures would also be great....

The first of the updates is from Tracie (MEAD) HUGHES. She and her husband, John, HUGHES (USMA, ‘96) met in graduate school at USUHS in Bethesda, MD. Tracie will finish her course work for her psychology PhD and then complete a one-year internship, most likely in San Antonio, TX. John will finish medical school at USUHS this summer and then

will train to be an ER doctor at Ft Hood, TX. They were married June 30 of last year at the Air Force Academy Chapel. Present at the ceremony were

Jannell (ZICARELLI) MACAULEY, Scott ZICARELLI (‘02) Beth (CRIMMEL)

MAKROS, WendyVOLKLAND, Lauren ECKERT and Connor WYATT.

The second and last update I received is from Jamie RHONE. He moves this June to Long Island, NY where he will work at the Defense Contract Management Agency. He and his wife had a very hectic summer. His son Eriq was diagnosed with a rare form of kidney cancer called Wilms Tumor. Doctors removed a “nerf football sized” tumor which unknowinglv destroyed his left kidney. According to Jamie “All is good though. The doctor said that his one kidney would last for 90 years or so and the rest was on Eriq! God is good and continues to bless us. We finished chemotherapy in January and have only routine ultrasounds and blood tests. The prognosis is great with at least a 90 percent chance of no recurrence.” Please keep Jamie and his family in your prayers.

Well, that is it for the submissions to this article. I am now stationed at Davis-Monthan AFB in Tucson working as the chief of Public Affairs for 12 AF. The job is great and I love having a joint-spouse assignment. I have run into a couple classmates so far, but will hopefully meet more! Lisa (MARTINEZ-PEREZ) HEDDEN is also stationed here at 12 AF and works in the Intel section. She and her husband recently bought a house and this is the first time in her life she hasn't lived on base she loves it! Joe SCHULTZ recently completed A-10 training and is on his way to Korea.

I ran into Diane (CARLONI) BURCH and Adam BURCH at the BX with their nine-day-old son, Benjamin Michael. They are very proud parents and have every right to be as their son is beautiful. If I hadn’t seen their son for myself, I would never have believed Diane had just given birth. She looked great and was upset that she couldn’t work out yet as the doctor said she had to wait two weeks. Amazing!

Joy BOSTON just finished up four months in Peru and survived a bombing outside the embassy and a visit from the president. She will return to Eielson for a short time before she leaves for a year in Korea. Lastly, I got to see Sarah EMORY for a couple minutes while TDY to Nellis. She cross trained from Personnel to Maintenance and is hoping for a summer move to Kadena AB in Japan.

Ok, I said it was going to be short and that is all I’ve got. Hope to hear from everyone soon so the next article can be a little longer! Enjoy your summer. Karin

James W. Busch

220B Polaris St.

Sheppard AFB, TX 76311 (940) 851-7994

E-mail: jbusch99@msn.com

Class - not much to report this issue, so keep sending me your emails and pictures. The biggest news for me is that I’ve finished ENJJPT and will be going to Luke AFB for Vipers in July. Val Bastian’s husband, Russ, also got a Viper, and they’ll be going to Kelly AFB for RTU. Thanks Val, for writing the last issue! The other big news from Sheppard is that Travis WALTERS is almost done with Tweets. Both Travis and I have had classmates as IPs. Travis went cross-country with Ben GRIFFITH and I had my last contact ride with Clint KLIETHERMES. Scary!

Tommy BURKE, Dave DEVEMARK, Chad MARTIN, Jorma HUHTALA, and Eric PAULS are almost done with F-16 RTU. Tommy and Dave will be heading to Aviano AB in June, Chad will be off to Cannon, Jorma will be going to Hill, and Eric PAULS will be stationed at Shaw. Congratulations fellas. The lone picture for this issue comes from fellow F-16 pilot Dave BRODEUR, who married his sweetheart Suzi back in January.

In other marriage news, Connie CANN is now Connie Holen. She married Wade HOLEN during UPT at Columbus, and the two are now flying KC-lOs at Travis. Back in the fighter world, Scott HUDSON just completed his Mission Ready training in the F-15E at Elmendorf AFB, AK. Scott and his wife, Kerri, have been married for almost three years now.

In singles’ news, Daryl MEYERS wrote from good ole’ Colorado Springs where he is flying the C-21. He spends his time skiing and flying to interesting places such as: Canada (parts so isolated it makes the TV show Northern Exposure look like a happening metropolis), Greenland, Iceland, Puerto Rico, Cuba, Dulles International Airport and Dagget Field, CA (an airport so podunk that the airport manager lives 50 feet from one of the taxiways). Also at Peterson AFB on hardship tours are Wayne ALTOM, Scott MALLOCH, and SandraWILSON. Wayne and his wife, Kari, try to keep Daryl well fed. Scott did a flyby for the AF-Army game. They all should be upgraded to Aircraft Commander by this summer. Daryl also mentioned he gets to see Joel NELSON every now and then. Joel works at Kirtland doing stuff no one really knows about.

That’s it for this issue. As time allows, please send me an update on

Tracie (Mead) Hughes andJohn Hughes at their weddinglastJune in the AcademyChapel.

Dave and Suzi Brodeur, Pat Ashenfelter, Mark Rodemoyer (‘99), Marc Johnson (‘99), ErikJacobson (‘99), JeffreySekavee, James Mack (‘62),Brian Mack (99), Pete McCaffrey(‘83), andRodneyKeller (‘99). developments in your lives. I’d be particularly interested to hear about Shiners involved in Afghanistan. Until next time James.

Jason “JW” Simmons

110 Mara Court

Prattville, AL 36066

E-mail: Simmons@USAF.com

Work: Jason.Simmons@Maxwell.af.mil

Hey guys, how are you all doing? Maxwell AFB is treating me well, but I have learned first-hand how much an A-76 can affect a unit and the entire base. Maxwell AFB is scheduled to have the civilians roll in starting August 1st. I will be part of the transition team and then will move over to the Maintenance Flight which will only be half civilians since it is vital to airfield operations. So, I’ll be the Deputy Flight CC and then move up to Flight Commander or move to the Group as the Executive Officer. I will be happy either way, and am truly enjoying being a squadron level Comm-O. By the time this in print we will have pinned on First Lieutenant. Ahh, that will be a nice pay raise for us and end those newbie looks. Hey, I hear if you use a silver paint pen that your mess dress insignia, it will lookjust like the forty dollar pair at clothing issue. Actually, I’m keeping mine. Maybe I can give them to someone special down the road some day. Hey, congrats to you all. I want to catch you up on what is going on in the lives of our classmates.

Ellen Kowalchuk (LEVAUGHN) is working in Public Affairs at WrightPat AFB while husband, Andy, is at AFIT getting his master’s degree in Software Engineering. They are looking forward to PCSing next March hopefully somewhere warmer! Jason HOFFMAN just returned from a 124-day stint as the Squadron Commander of the 405th Expeditionary Munitions Squadron at a deployed location in support of Operation ENDURING FREEDOM. Jason and his troops were responsible for building and delivering 14.7 million pounds of bombs. He is now back at Mountain Home AFB working in the 366 Component Repair Squadron as a Production Supervisor. Drew ELLIS is having a blast in the Navy at SEAL Team 10 in Little Creek, VA. For those ofyou that don’t know, Drew

graduated from BUD/S in March of2001, earned hisTrident October 2001, and is a 3rd Officer in a SEAL Platoon.

Dan COURTRIGHT, Eric PATTON, and Jon SHAFFER just started training for the C-130 at Little Rock AFB in Arkansas. Dan will eventually be stationed at Dyess AFB, Eric at Davis-Monthan flying EC-130s, and Jon will fly with the Reserves at Maxwell AFB. They were all winged together at Corpus Christi NAS along with Sierra BURGESS on the 25th ofJanuary. Brian LANE from the 02-06 UPT class at Columbus reported that his class received assignments on March 1 and wings on March 15. By press time all of them should be halfway through the next phase of training. Brian and Jason MORAES got KC-lOs to Travis. Pat RAYNER got a C-17 to Charleston and Amity TIPTON got an E-3 to Tinker. Pete SCHNOBRICH, Tom STILL and Andy STOCKMAN all received F-16s at Luke. Margaret EDMONDS received a C-21 to Scott with a Strategic Airlift follow-on. Brett LENT will also go to Scott and fly a C-9 with a Strat follow-on. Harry KENNER received a C-17 to McChord.

Here are the latest couple of drops from Laughlin as reported by Darci HUTCHINS: Darci got a T-37 (fighter follow-on). Dan HINGLEY, Matt BYRNE, Phil GAGNON, and Dave WRIGHT all got F-15Cs. Dave WRIGHT and Tom BOWMAN got B- Is. Chris GENTILE got an F- 15E. Brian MORITZ got a C-17. Omar RASHID got a KC-10 to McGuire. Matt ASTROTH got a C-9 to Yokota (tactical follow-on). Greg HUHMANN got a KC-135 to Fairchild. Brian TRINKLE finished T-34s in Pensacola and just started T44 training at NAS Corpus Christi. Trink is hoping for an August winging. Justin HOHN will be marrying Karen Scheeler in the cadet Chapel on June 22. Karen is a first grade teacher in C-Springs and a volunteer with Campus Crusade for Christ. Abdullah BRODIE will be getting married on the 20th of Sept in Savannah, GA to a civilian woman named Zakiyya. Ifyou would like to be a part ofJustin’s or Abdullah’s wedding contact me and I’ll get you in touch with them. Grant SCHROEDER is in Japan living it up in Tokyo. He relays that he is really enjoying himself and likes his role as the Assistant Base Network Engineer and got his CCNA on Cisco equipment in March. Mike CAMPBELL is currentlyresiding in Cheyenne, WY where he is stationed at F.E. Warren AFB starting his missileer career. He also shared that Carlos MARARAC and Javin PETERSON are both getting married in the fall.

Amanda (RIVERA) Williams recently received an assignment to the Headquarters Services Agency and will be PCSing to Randolph AFB, TX in July. Her sister Amy RIVERA is currently stationed at Lackland AFB; the AF has unknowingly reunited them. Amanda’s husband, Brad Williams (Class of ‘99), received an assignment to the AF Manpower and Innovation Agency at Randolph AFB, so they will have the chance to enjoy an assignment together.

William SWAN finished OSPT and Missile IQT in Vandenberg Ca and is now at Malmstrom AFB in the great state of Montana. He started his upgrade sequence and started sitting alerts early March. He said that he doesn’t do much but go to Canada. Jeff JOHNSTON is having a blast at Kunsan AB, Korea working Intel for F-16s. He doesn’t let a remote tour get him down though, spending almost everyweekend up north in Seoul. Jeff has also made fast friends with the kids at the Kaechong Orphanage who have found in him someone who acts their age!

The Pfluger Wedding

August PFLUGER married the former Camille Cole ofHillsoboro, TX on Dec 29, 2001. Former USAFA grads who attended were Jeff BROWN, Eric GARCIA, Marc LOWE, Erik JOHNSON, Brian PHILLIPS, Dave DRUMMOND, Adam RESSLER, Melinda Schilling, James O’BRIEN, Josh MILLER, Pat RAYNER and Chuck Chapman. Camille and August are at Tyndall AFB, FL awaiting an assignment. August said that He, Chris KEITHLEY, and Brian MARBACH are at Tyndall just starting the F-15 course.

That is it for now. I did get a bit of great news from Alex HAM. He and Maggie have a new familymember, Jacob Ryne Ham born on March 25th. We’ll definitely include a shot of the family in the new issue. On that note, if anyone else has given birth, please have them get in touch with

Drew callingin a helo during a comm’s course.

me and we’ll have to include a picture and blurb on all them. For the guys and gals flying high in flight training, continue to excel and know that we all wish you the best of luck. I have heard about some of you hearing about some future assignments coming up. Be sure to update us all on that. As I said before we are protecting your email addresses, so if you need to get in touch with someone, email me and I’ll help you out.

Take Care,

Jason W. Simmons

Holly Adams

4412 Mayfield Lane Valdosta, GA 31605

(229) 245-7434

E-mail: Fire_lt_Up_40@hotmail.com

Ok, homies, I’m a slacker and can’t work attachments well enough to get my articles to the AOG!! No excuse sir/ma’am - I’m in pilot training, so mathematical errors are likely. Below is the article that I wrote for last issue, and there’s a word limit, so I’m having to limit! Also please keep friends and family of Nick JABARA in your thoughts and hearts.

Fire it up, homeskillets. Greetings from Maxwell AFB and the greatAerospace Basic Course. Just one comment: it’s all you’ve heard it is and then some... who was it that needed that next star or OPR bulletin anyways? Sheesh... Name, nickname, alpha-numeric designation, and primary mission ofthe following aircraft... Do you guys know who the Tuskeegee Airmen are? (and I quote)... Does anyone know what to do when you’re outside in issued PC gear when Retreat is played? I think you put your hand over your heart (and I quote again)... Now on to Warden’s 5 rings...

Well, at least there’s a ton of knew folks here now, so everything outside of 0700-1700 weekdays is a good time in FUNgomery, AL. Town’s claim to fame: Bocephus grew up here. Simma down the excitementyou will all get the chance to come here now that attendance for the newly-commissioned is 100 percent (see above comment about next star and OPR bulletins).

On to the rock stars, in no particular order. Coming to ABC from the metropolis ofValdosta, GAwith me: Perry MINTZ, temporarilylivingwith me and Chris CALLAHAN at Moody until Jachin FINCH arrives in March... bless his mother’s soul for having to live with him for a full and no doubt un-dull 18 years before he came to USAFA. That brother is a riot. Erin VANOOSTEN just recently arrived at Moody and living with Jeff DENNIS and Wayne KINSEL, all three waiting for UPT at Moody. Jeff and Wayne are here for ABC, too. All the same for Lori CRONIN - UPT soon, too. Others at Moody but not blessed with an ABC slot just yet: Chris CALLAHAN is busy getting kicked out of clubs by old h-bag blue-hairs that own the joints, Jon MUELLER and Dave DAMERON just arrived and APT. Nate TOLLE, Tommy GONZALES, Dave PENUELA, Chris MULDER, Ben HOEG, Kyle KIMBERLIN, Mike PASQUINO (and wife), Brent GREER have all been there a little longer and should start UPT before this gets published. Matty HALL, Russ GRIMES, and others already started in the first class at Moody and have all already soloed!

To ABC from across the pond - Marty I.AYE from Lakenheath, slacking on the cheek-clenching, I must say. Not impressed, worm, not impressed. Dick BIAKEWOOD and Ryan SAGASTUME also in from Lakenheath - Sags probablylooking to invest in a fresh set ofBDUs for this great course. Wade BOLINGER over from doing Comm at Lajes Field - no black sand beaches, but at least the locals speak something other than Portuguese (OK, so it’s not much more understandable in Southern Alabama, point taken) Mike MULLIGAN is in from Hawaii - pretty much NOT happy about a month TDY to Alabama. As if he needed to get any more of a tan. Tim KURUTZ, Eric MANLEY, and Luke CASPER in from Aviano - waiting on UPT, trying to hook up by talking English to the women over there... and you thought it was hard to get a chick at the academy... From Ramstein Lisa JORGENSEN, Marissa CATLIN, Julia LUTTRELL, and Marcos LENNON. Yes, ladies and gents, wherever he goes he is surrounded by women. Bert GIOVANNETTI and Joey SULLIVAN also from Germany - Spangdahlem. Jen GLOMB here, too, and enjoying the visit with her beau since he’s at Spang and she’s in Little Rock. Todd and StacyALLISON (BOGGS) are over from Germany, too - Comm for Todd and Manpower for Stacy - they enjoyed a free ticket back to the states at least! Texas was a long drive for the three-day weekend, but they’re doing really well.

From the western establishments - Cory BARACK sent in the latest from Edwards AFB - he was doing IFT there then heading to Sheppard. He said that they all work for flight test squadrons in some capacity, however little work that may be! Nate DODD is at Edwards doing IFT, then starting UPT soon at Laughlin. Same goes for James MCQUEEN except

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he’s going to Columbus. Amy SNAPP is a Human Factors Engineer, and she’ll be there at Edwards for a few years. Matt MIHALIK is the only one here at ABC from Edwards, and since he’s already done IFT, he’s just APT for ENJJPT at an AFB doing TODO and some glider stuff with the TPS, looking to PCS ASAP, but NLT the ROEs stated in the CIF - which say meet at the BOR after COB - I think his RNLT date is coming up - he misses the AFT, AOCs, MTLs, and the PFT....yeah, I think that’s all of 'em. Purely entertaining myself people, I swear. Cory, Matt, and James were hammered on “The Tonight Show” with Jay Leno awhile back - it aired on Thanksgiving, so I guess you’re SOL ifyou didn’t see it then, but that’s money that they got to meet Leno. Jeb BLAIR is at McChord in Seattle doing the casual thing with C-17 jockeys (also read: answering phones like everyone else). His advice to ‘02ers and late bloomers from our class: do NOT try IFT in Seattle cause it rains all the damn time. Other than that, he says the Pacific Northwest rocks in every conceivable way, espedally for single guys like him - still pounding beers and coddling his beloved Mustang. He’s going to head toVance (so to speak) for UPT in March.

From the Eglin/Hurlburt area, Heather HUOT and Christine LOVE are here at ABC after their recent PCS from Colorado Springs. They’re both APT and enjoying Florida before they go to Columbus. Teague BODLEY and Brent BAK here for the vacation in AL - SUPER! They hosted quite a few folks for the ABC party in Ft Walton Beach the first weekend of ABC.

Givey KOCHANOWSKI was here at ABC last go - now I believe he’s getting ready to hit up his tech school. Others in the Pensacola area - Faith HITCHCOCK (doing Comm tech school now at Keesler), Mike DUNN (UPT at Pensacola), the FEURINGS (Jeffgetting ready for Acquisitions at Hurlburt and Jason doing UPT at Pensacola), and Jim SCHIESS (UPTPensacola). Mike, Faith, Jim, and myself just purchased tickets for the Charlotte race - we’ll surely hit a few more in Southeast this season, so if you’re interested, drop me a line and we’ll meet up and get the family pack - four tickets, four schweaty wieners, and four Cokes is a deal (support Coke racin’ folks).

DustyBORNapples is at ABC from Ellsworth (hi... [dramatic pause] I’m at Ellsworth...) A little Wayne’s World clip for the mid-westerners... He’s doing CE out there and also slippin’ on the clenching, I must say. He’s had a pretty active credit history this month. Will RODRIGUEZ and his wife are in New York City and doing well - they have a great dog to keep them companyuntil their familyexpands! Derrick KALLMAN and charming, beautiful wife, Leigh Ann, are enjoying Nellis - ready to start flying!

Johnny ISACCO says the fellas are having the time of their lives out in Charleston - Brent CURTIS (will be in UPT at Laughlin by time this comes out), Bart ROBINSON (same as Brent - Laughlin), Johnny Paycheck and Matty JOHNSTON have a Sheppard date in April. Josh FRIEBEL came down to party with them over NewYear’s, and he’s already started UPT at Columbus by now. Melissa Olendorf (HORVATH) is also at Charleston keeping busy with personnel - she made the ABC trip last class. Her husband, Eric (USNA ‘01), is studying at the Naval Nuclear Weapons school in Charleston, so they’re glad they will be working really close to each other for now at least. Timm BONNES recently moved down to Columbus after IFT in Colo Spgs and is ready to enjoy his bike finally! He starts UPT soon there.

The UPTers out atVance all report well - Bryan BAILEY (and wife), Chris STEPHENS (and wife), Jason ZUMWALT (and wife) are among a few in the same boat as Smelanie. ...notice a trend? Melanie BATES is looking to pursue the BioMed field here soon...then hopefully Med school! Taylor YANG is now getting ready for Intel at Goodfellow. Christel FLORES and Zachary PEADEN just got hitched while we’re talking about getting married - Zach is doing UPT at Vance and Christel is not going to med school anymore - we’ll update next time on what she ends up doing! Camille CHIGI is at Gunter here in Montgomery, but she is fixing to go to the Comm tech school at Keesler with Faith and some others. Ben ORTON is pushing it out so he can finish Grad School early in Arizona and possibly get his Sheppard date moved up. He recently went up to visit Jimmy MUIR at L.A. AFB. Last I heard, Jimmy has a part time job singing Spanish telegrams in a Pink Panther costume... just let it go, Jimmy, just let it go...

Heather FURMAN dropped a line from the civilian world in Missouri. Since departing the AF, she went to Guam to work at this cushy resort as an instructor in various watersports and events... yeah, must be rough! Then she went over to Taiwan and then Japan for a few months to teach English and see the world until her VISA ran out, so now she’s back. She ran into Amy ABRAHAM in Guam (pretty sure she’s at Andersen down there), and Amy’s doing good - working Comm in Guam.

It was good to see folks down here and hope everyone else is doing well. Take it easy, and if it’s easy, well hell, take it twice. SMELL, ylloh.

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