Checkpoints March 2005

The brave men and women who serve in our armed forces protect our freedom and the freedom of the world. We honor their courage

Heroes, every one.

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EXECUTIVE

President/CEO: James A. Shaw, '67

COMMUNICATIONS

Vice President: Dick Rauschkolb, '70

Editor: Bob McAllister

Media Designer: Sarah Wright

Photography: Ken Wright

Copy Editor: Heather Beer

Writer: Christopher Stewart

Web Site: Brenda George

Class News Editor: Tom Kroboth

Advertising: Christopher Stewart and Bob

CHECKPOINTS

U.S.

Force Academy. (Phone: 719-472-0300, DSN: 333-2067. FAX: 719333-4194, E-mail: aog@aog-usafa.org.) It is provided as part of a membership package ofwhich the magazine subscription annually accounts for $ 10. Single copies of CHECKPOINTS for members $2.50. Periodicals postage paid at the U.S. Air Force Academy, CO and additional mailing offices. POSTMASTER: Send change of address to CHECKPOINTS, Association of Graduates, Doolittle Hall, 3116 Academy Dr., USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475.

Opinions expressed in this magazine are those of the authors. They do not necessarily reflect the opinions, policy or attitude ofthe Association ofGraduates, its officers or the editorial staff. The appearance ofadvertisements in this publication does not constitute an endorsement by theAssociation ofGraduates ofthe products or services advertised. Copyright, Association ofGraduates of the U.S. Air Force Academy, APRIL 2005.

A BRIEF HISTORY OF THE HONOR SYSTEM

- PART I OF III

Marco Polo and honor, ethics, and trust

Reading the fall 2004 Checkpoints, I was struck by the coincidence of the Honor Code article (A briefhistory ofthe honor system, Pages 84-88) and Warren Langley’s contribution to ’65’s class news in which he was greatly disturbed by the ‘state of the Honor Code,’” and that he didn’t think the cadets are committed to the Honor Code.

Warren, with whom I disagree over his actions regards to Iraq, is correct on this one. I am not surprised by his conclusions. I think he meant to say it was a deep seated [USAEA] cultural problem. I think it is way more than that; a culture ofdiminishing ethics in our society as a whole. This is probably obvious to those ofyou who have raised children to adulthood.

I never did, but just this last year became a guardian for our 14-year-old niece, and saw from a close perspective, the depth of the problem. The cadets, as one might expect, bring that deep-seated set of diminishing ethics with them to the Academy. I searched my simple mind for a simple story to explain easily the morality of an honor code to my naive young niece. With apologies to history majors, here is what I did and said:

With a magic marker, I wrote “Marco Polo” on one side of a dollar bill, and then told her the following story. In most of the world in the age ofMarco Polo, money took the form ofprecious metals, stuff that was essentially unalterable in its creation and destruction. It thus took its natural place as a tool ofsociety, letting rational humans work together for their collective advancement, free ofchaos. Marco Polo, however, changed all that.

One of the things he brought back from China was paper money; paper money as evidence ofa promise to pay and ofmutual trust: intangible ideas, not tangible metals.

The concept was revolutionary to Marco Polo’s western world. But it has taken hold and lasted the last nine centuries. It became simultaneously the grease that lets society function smoothly and the glue that holds it together. Written on the other side of that dollar bill are the words, “In God We Trust.” So we mean it when we tell our youngsters that trust is so important that it is written on something they think is so important. I tell her that without that trust as it is implied by paper money, there would be certain chaos. Everything would be a lie. She would probably not even have real friends. (That got a little ofher attention - no money, no friends?!) It’s all about trust.

Honor, ethics, trust. In my simple mind I understand them to be part of one another. By my story I hope that a simple young teenager will also understand. And then having shown her the words on the dollar bill, I turn it over to show “Marco Polo,” and give it to her to have and to hold, and to remember the lesson. Without having to read the great books on philosophy my young niece can use this simple idea about honor, ethics, and trust to lead a life based on a Code of Honor. If I were the cadet Honor Code representative today, this is the way I would start the lesson.

I hope my experience can be useful. I also hope USAFA is back on track to be the prime example of a successful organization based on honor, ethics, and trust.

Allan Sweeny, ’65

The Honor Code

I just finished reading the fall 2004 issue ofCheckpoints and would like to make two comments. First, I congratulate Fred Malmstrom, ’64, on his attempt to chronicle the history of the Honor Code. However, he erroneously states that “... the cadets had established their own ethics committed as far back as 1963.” The fact is that, three years before that, in 1960 the cadets established the Professional Ethics Committee. Secondly, I found the article on Cadet Climate Surveys very interesting. However, I find it puzzling that USAFA insists in conducting these surveys. The only way to achieve a true and unbiased survey is to let a third party, not connected with USAFA, conduct these surveys. Otherwise, you end up hearingwhat you want to hear. I know what I am talking about because I am a co-owner of a company specializing in surveys.

HectorAndres Negroni, ’61

I am grateful to Hector Negroni, ’61, for any corrections and updates to errors and omissions I may have chronicled. Sorting out 50 years of Honor System misfiled documents, stacks, piles, and incomplete data has not been easy. When data are incomplete, I then find myself relying on interviews with old-timers for their best recollections and even digging into my flawed memory.

In the interests of unbiased accuracy in reporting, I encourage anyone with direct knowledge of the history of the Honor System to keep me updated and corrected. Keep those ’ole cards and letters coming!

Frederick V. Malmstrom, ’64

Dressed for success

It was with great surprise that I found my article (Grad recallsfirst trainingflight, Pages 28-30) about weightless flight in the summer 2004 issue. The addition ofthe graph and the picture of the KC135 were just right to dress up the article. I also noted that Rick Searfoss, ’78, mentioned my article in a letter to the editor appearing in the fall issue. That is appreciated as well.

There are many other stories I could write, but I will leave those to other grads who I’m sure would also like the honor of

being published in such a great magazine.

GeofifiMichael, ’73

It isprecisely because ofgraduates likeyou who are writingsuch interestingarticles that our members enjoy readingCheckpoints. Wesearch continuouslyfor well written andpertinent articlesfor our magazine, andyours certainly exceeded those standards. Thankyou. —Editor

Corrections

The story “Research project raises high-ranking eyebrows” from the fall 2004 issue of Checkpoints should have contained the following paragraph:

Johnson concluded that as the economy weakens, non-minorities desire morejobs and are accessed in numbers that are higher than usual. Hence, a weak economy leads to fewer enlistments from minorities as Armed Forces mission numbers becomefulfilled by non-minorities.

The contents of our Fall 2004 issue had a few errors pertaining to page numbers. We apologize for the inconvenience and will work harder to avoid such oversights.

Northwestern Preparatory School

“Northwestern Prepprovided me with an academicfoundation that raised my SAT scores by 200 points, as well as an ability to focus on the essentialpreparation to succeed at the Academy. As a result ofthe self-confidence I gained there, I became Outstanding Student in CST, Outstanding 2nd Class Cadet in 3rd Group, Team Captain of Women s Fencing, and Outstanding Squadron Commander ofthe #7 ranked squadron ofthe wing!

from the (Board C,hair

Fellow graduates and members of the Association of Graduates,

This month, in conjunction with Founders Day, the AOG presented Distinguished Graduate Award to Gen. (Ret.) Ron Yates, ’60, and Col. (Ret.) Fred Gregory, ’64. These men, through the lives they have led, exemplify the heritage of the institution we love so dearly. Both completed distinguished military careers, though they took different paths, and each has continued to contribute beyond his military career as a leader ofcharacter for our nation. Please read about their accomplishments on page 23 in this issue of Checkpoints. Ron and Fred, we are proud to be in your company.

Also in conjunction with Founders Day, we hosted a visit to the Academyby more than 100 Sabre Society members. Attendees received briefings from Academystaff, met with cadets and had the opportunity to attend a character development class. For those ofyou who do not give to the Air Force Academy Fund at the Sabre Society level, I urge you to consider becoming involved by contacting Greg Knedler at (719) 472-0300 or visiting www.usafa.org for more information.

During the past month, the AOG helped sponsor two key national programs at the Academy. The Academy Assembly’s theme this year was “Spreading Democracy: America’s Obligation?” More than 100 students from 90 universities across the world debated this important topic and heard distinguished speakers. Chairman ofthe Joint Chiefs of Staff General Richard B. Myers was one of many featured speakers at this year’s National Character and Leadership Symposium. H. Ross Perot and Tommy Lasorda were also on the program. The theme of the symposium was: “Leading Positive Change Raising the Standard on Excellence.” AOG board member Charles Garcia, ’83, gave a great keynote speech that the cadets loved. Contact the AOG ifyou’d like to attend next year’s symposium.

Next month, we will elect five new directors to the board. You may recall in August we approved the expansion ofthe board to 21 directors, with the majority ofthem (11) elected competitively. This was done to let the members decide who the majority ofthe board members would be. In the May election, you will select the first five of these directors from more than 20 candidates. You will elect the remaining six in the 2007 elections. Also as part of the changes made in August, six of the 21 directors were identified as appointed directors. The six graduates who will fill those positions are: Bill Boisture, ’67, Charles Garcia, ’83, Gil Mook, ’67, Amber O’Grady, ’96, and me all current directors who were elected to a first term in 2001 and Gen. (Ret.) Ralph Eberhart, ’68, who will join the board for the first time in July.

In addition to electing new directors in May, you will also vote on five proposed amendments to the associations articles of incorporation and bylaws. These proposed amendments were developed by a group of graduates calling themselves the AOG Reunification Committee. This group wishes to: (1) remove powers from the board that have been in place since the association was founded in 1968 specifically to take the ability to amend the bylaws and articles away from the board and give it solely to the members; (2) reduce the number of member signatures needed to place a name on the ballot for election as a director from 1 percent ofthe membership (about 215 members) to just 25 members; make it very easy for small groups ofmembers to amend the bylaws by reducing the number ofsignatures needed to cause a vote to be taken from 10 percent ofthe membership (about 2,150 members) to just 100 members, and byreducing the quorum required to pass such an amendment from a majority of25 percent ofthe members (about 2,701 of 5,400) to just a majority of those who choose to vote (could be any number, say 51 of 100). The ARC circulated a petition to the membership and about 20 percent ofour members signed the petition indicating that theywanted these amendments put to a vote. Under Colorado law,

the association is required to conduct a vote if 10 percent of the members sign such a petition. This is a fundamental right ofthe membership to exercise its voice in the governance of the organization, and we are proceeding to hold a vote. This is the first time that amendments to AOG governing documents have been proposed in this manner. In the past, any amendments to these documents were made based on an affirmative vote oftwo-thirds ofthe entire AOG Board ofDirectors.

The board will recommend that you vote against these proposed amendments because we believe they are not in the best interests of the AOG in the long run. Of course some will argue that the board is simply “protecting its own interests” in making such a recommendation. I submit that this is not so. This board, like any board, has a finite term that it will serve and must act as good stewards ofthe organization with the long-term interests ofthe association in mind. Let me explain why we believe you should vote against these amendments.

Amendment #1 Change the articles to remove the rightofthe board to vote to change the bylaws and the articles, giving that right exclusively to the members.

The board has had the right to vote to amend the bylaws and the articles since the founding of the organization in 1968. Today, the board and the members each have the ability to amend the bylaws and the articles according to appropriate procedures. We believe that balance is proper; eliminating the board’s ability to make amendments would unnecessarily hamstring the organization. Very few organizations vest sole authority to change the bylaws in the members, primarily because it is often difficult to sustain sufficient interest for enough members to vote.

Amendment #2 Enable members to have their name placed on the ballotfor election as a director, without review by the nominating committee, if25 members sign a petition supporting his or her candidacy.

The current bylaws enable members to get on the ballot with petitions signed by 1 percent ofthe members (currently 215 members). So this amendment comes down to how many signatures are needed. The board believes that the number should be keyed to a small, but meaningful, percentage ofthe membership since the AOG will likely always be a growing organization. We recommend one percent. We do not believe 25 is a meaningful number, and 0.1 percent ofthe membership is no threshold at all. And, it should be noted, when the number 25 was originally used in 1968, it was about 1 percent ofthe membership.

Amendment #3 Require all votes on amendments to be conducted by written ballot. Set the quorumfor such votes at the number ofballots cast. Set the number ofvotes required to pass an amendment at a simple majority ofthe votes that were cast.

Constraining all ballots to be written ballots is unrealistic in the era ofelectronic communication. It is inappropriate to place such a constraint in the bylaws.

Currently the bylaws, in conjunction with Colorado law, set the size of the quorum for votes on amendments at 25 percent of the membership. The underlying rationale is that at least 25 percent of the members should care enough to vote if the organization is to change something as fundamental as its bylaws by membership vote.

In fact, Roberts Rules ofOrder Newly Revised recommends a quorum of a “majority” (i.e. more than HALF of the membership), with AT LEAST two-thirds of the majority voting to pass the amendment. The proposed amendment would set the quorum at however many members vote - could be one percent, 10 percent, maybe 25 percent however many members vote, that’s the quorum a much lower standard than either the current level or that recommended by Roberts. The board believes 25 percent is the appropriate size for the quorum, with a simple majority to carry a vote.

Amendment #4 Enable 100 voting members to require proposed bylawschanges besubmitted to a vote by the entire membership. Require allproposed amendments (thoseproposed by the board as well as those proposedby anygroup of100 members) to bepublishedin Checkpoints for a commentprocess. Thisprocess then gives the board and any group of 100 members the right to submit pro, con, and rebuttalpositions according to specified timelines. Require that the ballot contain the proposed amendments as well as the pro, con, and rebuttal positions submitted by the boardand by allgroups of100 members.

The current rules enable the membership to cause a proposed amendment to be put to a vote of the membership if 10 percent of the members sign a petition to do so. Today, this means about 2,150 members need to sign such a petition. Reducing this to 100 members invites small groups of members to try to get “their” views into the bylaws, with the association bearing the entire cost of a membershipwide vote in each case, and could even result in a proliferation of frivolous amendments. Typically, organizations have a relatively high threshold to initiate such member-driven changes because it is expensive and because the bylaws should be protected from manipulation by the will of a few, contrary to the interests ofthe many.

The board agrees with the notion of a “member comment” period on board-initiated bylaws amendments. Indeed, we have already agreed to initiate such a process on all future amendments. However, the “devil is in the details” of such a process and the board would not recommend chiseling those details into the bylaws. In particular, the timelines enumerated in the proposed amendments are too tight and do not enable individuals to comment (only groups of 100 can comment). And they would permit up to four amendment cycles each year, which would be prohibitively expensive, as well as wasteful of our members’ time.

Amendment #5 Give the boardthe authority to make non-substantive wordingandnumberingchanges to the bylawsforpurposes ofensuringthe consistency, grammatical correctness, and coherence ofthe amendments.

The board already has such authority. This amendment is unnecessary.

In sum, the board believes that the current bylaws, with the addition of a comment period by the members on future bylaws amendments, provide a solid platform for the sound governance of the association. The five amendments proposed by the ARC are not only unnecessary, but they also have the very real potential to harm the association over the long run. Governance ofthe association is a serious matter and should not be dealt with lightly. To remove rights that have been assigned to the board since the incep-

tion ofthe organization is not warranted in our view. I urge each of you to become familiar with these issues and to vote in the upcoming election. Please do not stand idly by and let others decide the future course ofyour association.

Looking longer term, the board has chartered a Blue Ribbon Council to make recommendations to the board and the membership on any governance changes that they believe will better serve the members of the association. All elements of the governance model are open to review. The board feels that such a comprehensive examination is a far more appropriate way ofmodifying the fundamental underpinnings ofthe organization than would ensue ifany group of 100 members can propose amendments that the entire membership must vote on, up to four times per year. The members of the Blue Ribbon Council are:

Lt. Gen. (Ret.) Brad Hosmer, ’59, first graduate ofthe first class and first graduate to be superintendent of the Academy. General Hosmer is a recipient ofthe Distinguished Graduate Award and is currently the Chair ofthe Blue Ribbon Council.

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Tom Eller, ’61, chief executive officer of Astro USA LLC; and former president, vice president and board chairman of the AOG.

Mr. Wayne Whalen, ’61, attorney and partner in Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, LLP. Mr. Whalen is chairman ofthe board ofthe Van Kampen Funds, a $90B mutual fund complex.

Gen. (Ret.) Ron Fogleman, ’63, former chiefofstaffofthe Air Force and co-recipient ofthe first Distinguished Graduate Award.

Mr. Harry Pearce, ’64, AOG board member and former vice chairman ofGeneral Motors and co-recipient ofthe first Distinguished Graduate Award.

Gen. (Ret.) Mike Ryan, ’65, former chief of staff of the Air Force and chair of the Ryan Commission which examined the role of the athletic department at the U.S. Air Force Academy.

Mr. Ted Legasey, ’67, AOG board chairman, board member and former chief operating officer of SRA International Inc., listed by Fortune magazine as one of the “100 Best Companies

To Work For In America” for the past six years.

Ms. Nancy Kudla, ’80, chief executive officer of dNovus RDI, a $16M company that offers information technology service to military, industrial and government clients.

Ms. Holly Svetz, ’80, attorney with the firm Morrison and Foerster in McLean, Va., where she focuses on technology issues, intellectual property and innovative forms ofresearch and development contracts.

Gen. (Ret.) Jim McCarthy, former air officer commanding and vice commandant, former deputy commander in chief of United States European Command, parent of a graduate and currently occupying the Olin Chair in the political science department at the Air Force Academy.

Mr. Ira Millstein, attorney and senior partner in Weil, Gotshal & Manges and one of the nation’s foremost experts on corporate governance.

Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Mai Wakin, former USAFA permanent professor ofphilosophy, distinguished graduate ofNotre Dame,

who is known as the conscience of the Air Force.

In closing, I’d like to share with you a statement approved unanimously by the board regarding incidents of religious intolerance at the Academy. “Air Force Academy cadets take an oath to uphold and defend the Constitution. That document guarantees religious freedom to all Americans. Also, religious toleration is critical to the success of the military mission and must be ingrained in every cadet. The AOG board decries any words or deeds that constitute a lack ofreligious respect at the Academy, and we are encouraged that Academy leadership has moved quickly to educate the cadets and Academy staff on this important issue”.

Thank you for putting up with this extended communication. Please be sure to vote in May.

Ted Legasey, ’67

Cadet Wing Media

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Archive your Air Force Academy memories through available VHS tapes or DVDs including:

□ PastfGraduation Ceremonies and related June Week Activities

□ The Basic Cadet Training experience current and past vearbooks/videos available Also available, P

L/aai y vaijL/uur

ncfrolarisWiYearbooks for most classes 1959-2004. Ask about the 50th Anniversary Commemorati ve series box^set (2004-2009).

For more information on these or any other Cadet Wing Media products, call (719) 333-4644.

While on the Academy, tune to 104.3 KAFA to hear the Cadet Wing DJ staff in action.

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By Lt. Gen. John W. Rosa

Academy Superintendent

s you delve into this edition of Checkpoints note the many exciting things occurring at our Academy. As I’ve told many of you in person and all of you in print, I’m honored to lead this great organization and extremely proud of the tremendous strides we’ve made over the last 20 months to bring the Academy more in sync with the operational Air Force which these outstanding young people will soon be a part of.

The “strides” I mention are part of an overarching effort to change the climate and culture at USAFA to more closely resemble that of the rest of the Air Force.

Continually focusing and orienting on the Air Force is a challenge given the Academy’s uniqueness, but this effort is vital if we’re to commission officers of character who are ready to accept the responsibilities that await them beyond our gates. Of course, to successfully accomplish this goal, we must provide cadets with the right tools at the right time in their development. Furthermore, our staff must be able to accurately gauge whether the changes made are affecting the climate and culture here at USAFA in the ways we seek. Without meaningful feedback, we would be charging forward in the dark. We’re confident the assessment tools we’re employing will provide us the necessary “vector” checks were after so as to maintain the upward spiral we’ve begun. Together, these focus areas (which I describe below) provide the guideposts by which we’re navigating our way towards a

better USAFA. In what follows, I offer a strategic perspective covering ongoing inidatives and future plans that, cumulatively, reflect the solid improvements were aiming to make at USAFA.

EDUCATE AND TRAIN

Officer Development System Progress

We’re now in the second year of our Officer Development System, and the results have been encouraging thus far - but there’s room for improvement. We’ve received positive feedback from both the faculty and staffproviding the instruction - and the cadets on the receiving end. The aim of ODS is to provide clear, direct linkage among aspects of a cadet’s day-to-day life at USAFA and the wider Air Force. By exposing cadets to dilemmas and challenges faced by active-duty officers, our cadets will be better prepared to face the problems and situations that await them after commissioning. The topics addressed within ODS include professional military learning, character, substance abuse, social development, sexual assault, and human relations. While the program has been well received, we understood from the outset that it would not be perfect and would require modifications once we really got “knee-deep” into it. From last semester, we gleaned several lessons that we’re now incorporating into the 2005 spring semester to improve both the content and presentation ofmaterial. We’re now providing monthly training to Associate AOCs and Academy Military Trainers so that they can hone their messages to cadets. Our lesson development process is now integrated with core courses to avoid overlap and maximize synergies. I’m confident these refinements will enhance the program and pay big dividends as time goes on.

Enhancements to the Academic Environment

As part of our continuing effort to better equip our young folks for the challenges that await them, we’ve given our academic regime a close look. Besides adding a core course in leadership, we’re offering cadets increased flexibility in the belief that less rigidity provides greater opportunities to achieve depth without sacrificing breadth. We’re also bringing the 34th Education Group, which focuses on military strategic studies, under the umbrella

of the dean because we believe it promotes unity of effort among sometimes overlapping disciplines. We’re also synchronizing our academic and military training. In all venues where it is appropriate, we’re placing an emphasis on character and leadership issues. Because we want to focus and orient on the operational Air Force and because space has become so central to warfighting, we’re doing even more to weave space issues throughout the curriculum. Furthermore, we’re increasing our research efforts directed towards ongoing operational Air Force issues confronting the force. USAFA’s third overarching focus area involves continually assessing where we are and finding viable methods to improve our performance where it’s required. To that end, we’ve created a structured cadet testing environment that involves the restoration of common graded reviews for lower classes. This approach provides support and enables success while offering a developmental approach that provides fewer “guardrails” as a cadet develops to reflect their increased maturity.

12th Annual National Character and Leadership Development Symposium

In February we hosted a very successful symposium with the theme “Leading Positive Change Raising the Standard of Excellence,” due in part to the generous support of the Association of Graduates. The cadets, staff, civic leaders from the local area, and college students from around the country heard keynote addresses from some of our nation’s top experts on leadership and ethics, including Mr. H. Ross Perot and the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff General Richard B. Myers. In all, the event showcased 42 speakers, welcomed 246 visiting students, faculty and civic leaders (in addition to USAFA attendees), and hosted representatives from 45 different schools. It was an impressive symposium and clearly demonstrated our continuing commitment to learning about leadership and character in a dynamic society.

FOCUS AND ORIENT ON THE AIR FORCE

Operating under the Uniform Code of MilitaryJustice

One of the more significant changes we’ve made involves adoption of the Uniform

Code of Military Justice as the foundation for cadet discipline, thus replacing the Cadet Disciplinary System. Bydoing so, we establish the same standards and expectations ofconduct here at USAFA that cadets will experience upon commissioning. This aligns our practices with those of the larger Air Force and gives cadets a clear picture of future expectations. Airmen, often younger than many of our cadets, operate under the UCMJ and we felt it appropriate that we hold the cadets to the same standards.

Many ofyou have expressed some concern over the fact that Articles 15, a non-judicial punishment tool available to the commandant under the UCMJ, is now an overly relied-upon tool to encourage compliance with directives. Our statistics indicate that we do not resort to this form of discipline more frequently than the larger Air Force were attempting to reflect. In fact, we issue Articles 15 at about halfthe Air Force-wide rate. They are usually offered after many, less severe actions (like verbal and written counseling) are taken in an effort to rehabilitate individuals that have fallen off the path expected of cadets and, more importantly, Air Force members in general. Ofthe Articles 15 issued at USAFA in 2004, 56 percent were alcohol related; thus far, 79 percent ofthe Articles 15 handed down in 2005 are alcohol-related.

Like the leaders in our broader American society, we face a great challenge in eliminating underage drinking. Besides not meeting military standards, it’s against the law. On a separate but related point, alcohol abuse (consuming excessive amounts) in general has a high correlation to other disciplinary infractions resulting from impaired judgment. Cadets need to appreciate that underage drinking is a crime and that the Air Force takes any violations ofthe law seriously. We’re working hard to educate and train cadets about the adverse affects ofalcohol abuse and the consequences ofsuch abuse.

Training at a higher level

Last fall, we executed the first-ever Commandant’s Challenge, the largest event of its kind at any of the service academies. The event, involving all four classes, pitted squadron against squadron with competition in four graded areas a field training exercise, academics, drill and ceremony, and the “Cen-

trifuge,” a culminating series of exercises that placed a premium on teamwork and cohesiveness. Within the broad framework provided byAOCs, the cadets built the event with a fair amount of officer oversight. It was designed to be more than an exercise, providing direct linkage to “Airmans Manual” skills. The challenge represented a huge leap forward from last year’s Operation Phoenix, and achieved the goals we set. We wanted it to be meaningfill, tough and professional while focusing on challenges cadets will face later in their careers.

I was very pleased with both the rigor of the three-day event and the skillful manner in which the Cadet Wing approached and conquered it.

For our spring training event, known as Pinnacle, the cadets have retained the same overall focus of the fall event, but they have injected new facets as well. Most significandy, the spring event will be completely cadet run conceived, written, and led with minimal inputs by staff. It will take place over two successive weekends in April. The first weekend (April 15-16) will be the equivalent of a Unit Compliance Inspection involving evaluations, inspections, parades, and so forth. The following weekend is designed to be very physically demanding little sleep, rigorous challenges ofstrength and endurance. Pinnacle is designed to be a culminating event whereby each class is evaluated to see if it has achieved the ODS goals and if they’re indeed ready to advance to the next stage ofleadership.

ASSESS AND IMPROVE Trends

Of equal importance to the changes we’re making is the need to periodically assess the health of our culture and climate through surveys that will reflect areas where we can improve our efforts. First the good news: results from the most recent cadet climate survey show positive developments regarding several cultural issues impacting cadets as they build their leadership and interpersonal skills. For example, cadets reported a reduction in the frequency ofsexually and racially oriented jokes, comments and slurs. The trend is posifive, but the fact that any still exist is unacceptable in the profession of arms.

Because of the importance we attach to accurately knowing the Academy climate at any given time, we’ve beefed up our

assessment capabilities. We’ve developed a graduate survey that has been sent out Air Force-wide to both graduates and supervisors to gauge whether the cadets we’re commissioning are meeting the mark. Based on the feedback from this survey and others, we can finesse our training and education programs to provide the Air Force with the finest officers we’re capable ofproducing.

Mutual Respect

The Academy’s culture remains the focus of our attention, and we’ve made much progress in building a stronger, healthier culture based on mutual respect. Many of you have seen reports pointing to specific lapses regarding religious respect here at the Academy. They highlight one important aspect of the larger culture changeplan we have been implementing since last year. Building a strong military team depends on respecting and appreciating our diversity the Air Force requires it, and the American public expects it. Providing equal opportunity regardless of gender, race, ethnicity or religious beliefs is the law in our great nation. We have initiated a religious respect education effort for all members of the Academy community cadets, officers, enlisted members, and civilians to create an atmosphere that respects the Constitutional rights of every person to believe as he or she chooses. We want cadets to understand what the law requires and for them to be prepared to lead a very diverse Air Force. Mutual respect enables us to meet our professional obligations. We know it takes time to increase awareness and develop judgment, and we are committed to preparing our future officers to lead in a multi-cultural environment.

Honor Code System Review

We’ve made no secret that we’re closely examining all facets of how the Honor Code is administered here at USAFA. At this time, no final decisions have been made concerning any major changes to the system. All cases continue to be handled in accordance with the current Cadet Wing Honor Code Reference Handbook. The focus of our review is on the administrative system that is, how cases are processed, the burden ofproof, board composition, and required reviews. We continue to solicit inputs from various sources including faculty, staff, cadets, outside ethics experts and graduates. In fact, we recently presented our

current findings to a very distinguished grad and former superintendent, retired Fieutenant General Brad Hosmer, ’59. Acting on his advice, we will take more time to assess how the Honor System is working under our year-old ODS as the latter evolves and matures. Our first year’s experience under ODS is encouraging; it has been generally well accepted and implemented by both cadets and their leaders, mentors, instructors, commanders and coaches. As General Hosmer pointed out, the leadership concepts and principles of ODS might very well have a positive impact on the administration of the Honor Code, but we need to give ODS more time to work before we consider any significant changes to our Honor System. As we travel the country, we’ll keep you updated on our progress and assessments. As always, we welcome your ideas and inputs.

Parting thoughts

Shortly after arriving here, I began using the analogy of a marathon to describe the task before us a long, hard struggle. More recently, I’ve been equating our present situation to passing the second mile marker we’ve found our stride, our pace is steady, we know much ofwhat lies ahead, but we’ve got a long way to go. We can glance back and see how far we’ve come, gaining confidence and strength from what’s been achieved. Of course, in passing mile marker #2, the runner (our Academy team) also knows that much more lies ahead. We must steel ourselves to those challenges, resolute in our determination to make things better, but humble enough to know that we’ll occasionally stumble along the way. The important thing, though, is that we continue moving forward toward the goal. Our climate here at USAFA is improving. We know this. We’ll make it better. We’ll do it by institutionalizing our integrated development plan; by placing greater emphasis on the core values of our Air Force; by honing our approaches toward character development; and finally, by developing a coherent strategic plan based on a clear vision for the future.

These are daunting challenges which require a long-term perspective to achieve profound and lasting benefits for our Academy and the nation, but it’s an investment worthy of our time and effort ifwe’re to succeed in achieving our vision ofbeing the premier institution for developing leaders ofcharacter. B

OUR. DISTINGUISHED GRADUATES FOR 2004

The U.S. Air Force Academy and its Association of Graduates formally recognized the 2004 Distinguished Graduates at the annual Founders Day dinner April 1. Col. (Ret.) Fred Gregory, ’64, and Gen. (Ret.) Ron Yates, ’60, earned this prestigious honor for their singular and distinctive contributions to society and the nation.

Honor, duty, loyalty and integrity capture the essence of these two distinguished graduates. Their accomplishments are testimony to the values the Academy instills in its graduates.

The Association of Graduates established the Distinguished Graduate Award as a way to identify to the public and to the Cadet Wing the broad national impact U.S. Air Force Academy graduates have on society. The individual achievements of these recipients exemplify the qualities and characteristics the Academy strives to imbue in its cadets - the future leaders of our Air Force and the country.

The accomplishments of these distinguished graduates are sketched in the following paragraphs. Their achievements are too numerous to individually list here, but these highlights illustrate Gregory’s and Yates’ commitment and dedication to the nation and the Academy.

COL. (RET.) FREDERICK DREW GREGORY,’64

Col. (Ret.) Fred Gregory is a national hero and striking role model. A retired Air Force colonel and one ofthe highest ranking NASA officials, Gregory has served the Air Force and the nations space program with self sacrifice for others and an enduring commitment to the safety ofspace travel. He continues to lead Americas quest to explore the frontiers of air and space, and his successes have a ffindamental impact on the nation.

After commissioning as a second lieutenant in 1964, Gregory went on to log 7,000 hours in more than 50 types of U.S. aircraft, including 550 combat missions in Vietnam. He routinely took on dangerous assignments as a helicopter rescue pilot, combat rescue pilot, fighter pilot, operational test pilot, and a research test pilot, with a selfless concern for saving lives and advancing American technological capabilities and space exploration. In 1978, Gregory was selected as a pilot astronaut, where he continued his career at NASA as an officer in the U.S. Air Force. In 1993, Gregory retired from military service but continued to serve at NASA.

Confirmed by the U.S. Senate in August 2002, Gregory became NASA’s deputy administrator, making him the first AfricanAmerican deputy in the agency. He is NASA’s chief operating officer, charged with the

responsibility of among many activities implementing the Columbia Accident Investigation Board and the president’s ambitious vision for robotic and human exploration of space. Gregory is entrusted with ensuring the safety of some of science’s most prized technological assets the space shuttle and International Space Station - and for setting the course for the next stage of space flight. In February 2005, Gregory was named the agency’s acting administrator.

Gregory’s passion and service was especially noticed after the 1986 Challenger accident. He worked tirelessly to help NASA return to flight and soon after commanded two space missions. He was the first African American to pilot a space shuttle and the first African American to command any space vehicle. He has logged 455 hours in space as pilot for the orbiter Challenger in 1985, as spacecraft commander aboard Discovery in 1989, and as spacecraft commander aboard Atlantis in 1991.

After graduating from the Academy in 1964, Gregory earned a master’s degree in information systems from George Washington University. He is a member or past member of numerous societies, including the Society of Experimental Test Pilots, Tuskegee Airmen, and Association ofSpace Explorers. Gregory has been or currently is a board member at the Maryland Science Center, Young Astronaut Council, KaiserPermanente, Photonics Laboratory at Fisk

University, and the Engineering College at Howard University.

Gregory has been personally committed to conveying to Americas youth the importance of staying in school and the excitement of aeronautics and space and has given more than 3,500 presentations to schools, colleges and universities. He also orchestrated NASA’s participation in a U.S. Air Force program that funds flight training for minority Air Force Reserve Office Training Corps candidates. Gregory enjoys being a mentor for students who are pursuing careers in engineering, mathematics and science.

His honors include the, President’s Distinguished Rank Award, Defense Superior Service Medal, Fegion of Merit, two Distinguished Flying Crosses, 16 Air Medals, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, Air Force Meritorious Service Medal, the NASA Distinguished Service Medal, three NASA Space Flight Medals, two NASA Outstanding Feadership Medals, National Society of Black Engineers Distinguished National Scientist Award, George Washington University Distinguished Alumni Award, named twice as one of the 50 Top Black Technologists, and holds honorary degrees from the College ofAeronautics, the University of the District of Columbia, and Southwestern University.

In every endeavor, Gregory perseveres with passion and conviction, serves as a mentor to others and exemplifies the highest ideals and core values ofthe Air Force Academy.

GEN. (RET.) RONALD W. YATES, ’60

Gen. (Ret.) Ron Yates, ’60, is a highly respected retired U.S. Air Force commander who personifies the noblest values and highest ideals ofpublic service, the profession ofarms, devotion to family, and citizenship representative of the citizen soldier. His exemplary leadership, personal courage, and excellent record of service in peace and war will forever stand as hallmarks of all the honorable qualities the Academy expects from its graduates.

After commissioning with only the second class to graduate from the U.S. Air Force Academy in I960, Yates went on to log more than 5,000 flying hours in more than 50 types ofaircraft, including 100 combat missions in Southeast Asia where he earned the Distinguished Flying Cross. As a young officer, Yates quickly established a reputation as a superb pilot and student of aeronautical matters. While serving in an F-102 fighter squadron in the Philippines and Vietnam, he personally developed the F-102 capability to deliver

munitions against hostile encampments at night in South Vietnam.

Yates attended the elite Aerospace Research Pilot School in 1966. While a test pilot, he flew a variety of fighter aircraft modified for testing purposes. He was also the project pilot on the rocketd-boosted NF-104 and flew that aircraft numerous times to altitudes above 100,000 feet. Yates began a very successful career in Air Force Research and Development that continued from the 60s through the 90s. He was testing director for the A-10 and was program director for both the F-15 and F-16 programs. He also served as a test wing commander. He was responsible for all tactical programs and tactical requirements in the Pentagon, and he was deputy assistant secretary of the Air Force for acquisition. Yates played an instrumental role in the development and enhancement ofthe A-10, F-16, F-15, F-22 and Joint Strike Fighter. These contributions to the Air Forces war-

fightingcapabilities stand as a true testament to his contributions to the nation.

Yates’ knowledge ofall aspects ofthe development, procurement, production and support phases of the military’s acquisition and operations processes led to his promotion to commander ofAir Force Systems Command. He was the second Academy graduate to be promoted to the rank of four-star general, and he led the consolidation of Systems Command and Logistics Command into the new Air Force Materiel Command.

During his tenure as an Air Force leader, Yates never asked of his troops what he was unwilling to do himself and mentored the men and women under his care. In recognition of his leadership abilities, the enlisted force presented Yates with the Order of the Sword, an award reserved for only the most revered commanders. Yates also earned the Department of Defense Distinguished Service Medal, Air Force Distinguished Service Medal with oak leaf cluster, the Army Distinguished Service Medal, Legion of Merit with oak leaf cluster, Distinguished Flying Cross, the Air Medal with three oak leaf clusters, the Meritorious Service medal with two oak leaf clusters, and the Commendation Medal with two oak leafclusters.

Although he retired after 35 years in the Air Force July 1, 1995, Yates continues to selflessly serve the Air Force and nation through his many endeavors to advance the applications of science and technology across the military spectrum. He is a member of the Society of

Experimental Test Pilots, the Board ofVisitors ofthe National Defense University, and he has served on the AOG Board of Directors for eight years. Yates also has served on the Board of Visitors for Carnegie Mellon University’s Software Engineer Institute, as a commissioner for the National Research Council Commission on Engineering and Technical Systems, and he was a member ofthe Ballistic Missile Defense Office Advisory Group.

Under Yates’ vision, the AOG has actively engaged graduates and friends of the Academy to financially support the construetion of a memorial pavilion to be built at the Academy’s cemetery. The pavilion will provide a dignified setting for graduates and their loved ones to be honored before being laid to rest. Yates’ initiative and leadership have also led to the construction ofthe Heritage Trail, located on the grounds adjacent to Doolittle Hall. The trail serves as a visual reminder of the lives and accomplishments ofthe Academy’s proud Long Blue Line.

Yates’ lifetime contributions to the Academy, the Air Force and the nation will serve as an inspiration to future generations ofcadets. The spirit, character and accomplishments of Yates personify the core values and ideals of the U.S. Air Force Academy.

The Academy and the Association of Graduates congratulate Col. Fred Gregory and Gen. Ron Yates on this well deserved recognition of their outstanding accomplishments and service to the nation. S

THE DISTINGUISHED GRADUATE AWARD

DG

Nomination Instructions

DG

The Distinguished Graduate Award recognize exceptional graduates who have set themselves apart by making extraordinarily significant contributions to our nation and/or their communities. It is a unique honor bestowed by the U.S. Air Force Academy and the AOG, recognizing graduates whose accomplishments are inspirational and elevate the reputation and the standing of the U.S. Air Force Academy. Distinguished graduates should provide an example to all graduates and cadets of the standards that we value and of the abilities that have made our country and society great. This is our opportunity to recognize graduates who can serve as an inspiration to future generations ofAmericas leaders.

To nominate someonefor the 2005

Distinguished GraduateAward:

Anyone may submit a three-page nomination package. All packages must be submitted by April 30, 2005. Page one should include:

- Professional accomplishments

- Education history

- Professional organizations

- Professional career summary, include job titles and location

- Honors, awards and public recognition

- Community service

- Three additional references (include addresses and phone numbers)

Pages two and three should include a strong written justification.

Send nomination packages to:

Association of Graduates

3116 Academy Drive

USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475 or e-mail as a MS Word attachment to dick.rauschkolb@usafa.af.mil

For more information, contact Dick Rauschkolb, 70, vice president for communications, at (719) 472-0300 or dick.rauschkolb@usafa.af.mil.

Timeline

May 2004 - April 2005

Award is publicized and nominations are accepted

Nomination packages must be submitted by April 30, 2005.

May - July 2005

Selection committee reviews nomination packages

August 2005

Selection committee recommends award recipient to AOG chairman of the board and U.S. Air Force Academy superintendent

Recipient is notified and agrees to accept award at the U.S. Air Force Academy

April 2006

Award presentation ceremony at U.S. Air Force Academy in conjunction with Founders Day

Additional information may be found on the AOG Web site at www.usafa.org

THERE IS NO SUBSTITUTE FOR THE REAL THING. This year, thanks to private funding contributed by members of the Air Force Academy family, many cadets will be able to learn more about other cultures in the best classroom setting of all - the real world. Although the government understands the importance of cultural immersion programs and funds an excellent classroom experience, it is the advantage of private funding that will afford the Academy's best and brightest an opportunity to travel overseas and experience other cultures first-hand.

Sabre Society donors directly impact the Cadet Wing and programs that are only made possible with private support. The Sabre Society recognizes and honors the generosity and commitment of donors who make annual unrestricted gifts of $1,000 or more to the Air Force Academy Fund during a fiscal year (July 1 - June 30). These gifts support valuable character development, academic, athletic and heritage programs. Give at the Sabre Society level today and make a real difference.

For more information about contributing to the Air Force Academy Fund and the Sabre Society, please contact Greg Knedler at

Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff

Gen.

Joint Chiefs chairman dazzles 2,000 Academy cadets

GEN. MYERS OFFERS HUMOR AND A HISTORY LESSON AT THE academy’s ANNUAL CHARACTER AND LEADERSHIP SYMPOSIUM

By Eileen Kelly

resident Bush’s top military adviser dazzled a full house of some 2,000 cadets recently with tales from his long and distinguished career in the military.

“What’s going to determine how far you go in this business is your commitment to the greater good,” said Gen. Richard B. Myers, the chairman ofthe Joint Chiefs of Staff. I think they told you by now that it’s not about the money.”

Myers stressed the importance of integrity, commitment, selflessness and even fun in life. To drive home the importance ofhumor, Myers cracked a few jokes and told the crowd that Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld wears cheap suits.

Myers didn’t have the grades to make it into the prestigious academy in Colorado Springs. When he first entered the Reserve Officer Training Corps program in 1965 as a way to avoid the draft, he said he was told he didn’t have much of a future in the Air Force.

The four-star general urged cadets to remember that even though he proved people wrong, success is not about getting the right job, but doing the job right.

Part comedic routine, part history lesson, Myers’ speech was in stark contrast to his visit to the academy two years ago, when he stood on the stage and somberly warned the cadets that the nation was at risk ofanother terrorist attack.

Instead, the chairman spent little time on stage as he roamed throughout the auditorium and fielded questions from the cadets during the hour-long presentation and question-and-answer session.

“He’s just a guy, you know,” said a cadet, Michael Grant, who sat just feet from where Myers was standing. “And tonight, you really got to realize that. (He’s) incredible at what he does, (he) really knows his job, but in the end, he’s just a person.”

Myers’ speaking engagement helped kick off the three-day annual character and leadership symposium at the academy. Also speaking earlier was businessman H. Ross Perot. More than 130 other college and military academy students were invited.

“He’s such a dynamic person. I took all sorts of notes,” said West Point junior Sean Justi as he flipped open his leatherbound notebook and flipped through page after page of quotes from Myers. R8

The National Character and Leadership Symposium was sponsored by the Association of Graduates, Mr. John Muse, USAF Academy Class of 1959, USAF Academy Class of 1973, USAF Academy Class of 1974 and The Phillis Foundation.

This story was re-printed with thepermission ofEileen Kelly.

Richard B. Myers addresses the U.S. Air Force Academy’s 12th Annual National Character and Leadership Symposium. (Photo by Danny Meyer)

AOG r 5

from the (president

Dear Graduates and Friends of the Academy,

As you know, graduates, through a group called the AOG Reunification Committee (ARC), have petitioned the Association of Graduates to conduct a vote on certain bylaw changes. They have raised questions about governance and your board has taken steps to meet many oftheir concerns. The major sticking point between the two groups is a matter of degree regarding the amount of change that is needed. The board feels that the ARC proposals go too far and have the potential of allowing a small minority to undo manyAOG programs and control the majority of members. This issue of Checkpoints contains several articles on the differences of the AOG and ARC and presents the AOG position on these issues and a letter from the ARC. We encourage you to become informed on both sides of this debate and study the different proposals closely. The ARC proposals were presented in a mailing that they sent to you in January. Regardless of where you come down on the issues, let me encourage you to VOTE in this critical election that will determine the future course ofyour Association ofGraduates.

Some charge that theAOG has not fulfilled its mission ofprovidingleadership and service to the graduate community, supporting the Academy mission, and preserving institutional heritage and tradition. Those of you who read these pages and have been members ofthe association for any length oftime know that charge is unfounded. The AOG oftoday

does more to support each part of its mission statement than it has ever done in its history.

We reorganized our alumni relations office to place a greater emphasis on providing better service to our graduates. Last year we hosted almost 3,000 graduates and their spouses during the reunion season. We worked with classes on everything from selecting a hotel to procuring class specific merchandise. Our chapters around the country continue to grow because we believe they are an important feedback and communications vehicle for the graduate community. We now have 48 chapters of varying sizes. We work closely with the superintendent and the senior staff here to get them to speak at chapter events. Last year Superintendent Lt. Gen. John Rosa spoke at five chapters, Air Force Chief of Staff Gen. John Jumper worked with us and spoke with the Dallas chapter. We plan to visit any chapters that request us to address the governance issue. Next year we want to get our board members on the road so we can hear your concerns face-to-face. We are also establishing a graduate council of class and chapter presidents and former leaders of the AOG. We will look to this group to tell us what they are hearing from the graduate community and make recommendations for the board to consider implementing.

At the height of the sexual assault scandal, when morale was its lowest in the Cadet

Wing, the AOG worked closely with General Jumper to bring back 44 distinguished graduates one from each class to meet with the wing. These men and women came back to their alma mater to show their support for the cadets during this difficult time. The reception they received from the cadets was quite stirring and remains one of the highlights of my many years here. It really is a shame that while the Academy is undergoing intense scrutiny and our graduates are waging the War on Terrorism, that the graduate community is divided when we should be pulling together to support the men and women in harms way and the cadets who are preparing to be professional officers in our Air Force.

The AOG and the Academy hosted the Graduate Leadership Conference last summer. This was a highly successful event attended by almost 200 graduates. General Rosa spent more than six hours with the group answering questions and addressing the many changes at the Academy. We plan to continue this program and host a session at the end ofJuly. Several of the question and answer sessions from the GLC are on our new Web site at www.usafa.org. If you haven’t checked out the new Web site, I encourage you to do so. It has several great features and allows us to communicate with you better. We will use it to provide information on the upcoming elections. We hope you enjoyed recent issues of ZoomiEnews, our new electronic newslet-

ter. Ifyou haven’t received a copy, please make sure we have your e-mail address byvisiting www.usafa.org and clicking “Address/Bio Update.”

We are actively involved in supporting the Academy mission of “Building Leaders of Character for the Nation.” General Rosa is concerned that the Academy isn’t placing enough emphasis on character development. Your AOG board agrees that character development is the critical foundation for all our officer development programs. Because of that shared belief, the AOG has continued funding many of the character development programs offered to cadets of each class. The AOG, John Muse, ’73, The Phillis Foundation and the Classes of’39, ’73, and ’74 fund a large portion ofthe National Character and Leadership Symposium. Each year the AOG works closely with the Academy’s character development office to bring graduates back to the symposium and other events. Ifyou would like to participate in one ofthe programs that allow for cadet interaction or attend NCLS next February, please let us know. The generosity ofthe graduate community and Academy supporters allows us to also fund other cadet activities from cultural immersion programs around the world to support for our national championship rugby teams.

There are those who are critical of our fund raising efforts, but every alumni association in the country seeks funds to improve its programs that benefit student development. Graduates of our sister service academies at West Point and Annapolis have raised more than $200 million to provide the extra margin ofexcellence for their cadets. USAFA graduates must realize that the federal government no longer fully funds all the programs at the Air Force Academy—nor should it. After 50 years, our graduate community has reached the point in its development where it should consider making donations to improve the cadet experience. In order to remain one of the most highly respected schools in the country, attracting the best and the brightest students, the Academy must continually improve its programs to make it competitive with the most selective colleges in the country. Private funding will give us that edge particularly in this era ofconstrained federal funding as the nation fights the War on Terrorism.

The AOG remains committed to preserving our most important traditions and heritage. That includes recommending to Academy leadership that a tough, mentally and physicallychallenging fourth class system is a critical part of a cadet’s development. We also have weighed in on proposed changes to the administration of the Honor Code and we have laid down a marker that the graduate community would not support changes to the code itself.

The Heritage Trail outside Doolittle Hall continues to expand. The Class of 1959 funded a Challenge Bridge. The Class of2008 was briefed at in-processing by upper-class cadets and members ofthe Class of 1959 on the significance ofthe bridge and the challenges theywould face once they crossed the bridge and boarded the busses for the cadet area. The Class of 1970 funded a replica ofthe War Memorial along the Heritage Trail. It serves as a moving reminder ofthe dangers ofthe profession of arms and the potential for each graduate to make the ultimate sacrifice in service to the nation. This monument to our fallen heroes was also explained to the Class of2008 at in-processing. We have also been working with the Academy to develop a Mall of Heroes that will recognize the accomplishments of men like Sijan, Richter and Borque.

Last spring we made the decision to immediately send Checkpoints to all cadets who sign up for our Life Membership at Graduation program. Almost 70 percent ofthe wing is signed up for this program. We

Governance AOG

believe it is important for the cadets to see the accomplishments of our many graduates. We provide many services to parents and appointees well before in-processing. A mini-CD is sent to all appointees, and we briefall parents and appointees who attend the appointee orientation. We also sponsor the successful Bed & Breakfast program. Almost every appointee and parent shows up at in-processing knowing about the AOG and the programs and benefits associated with membership. The LMAG Checkpoints program, combined with presentations highlighting graduate achievements at every meal in Mitchell Hall, and the many briefings we give to cadets, serve to keep the AOG and the legacy of the Long Blue Line in front ofthe Cadet Wing.

Let me close by saying there are some who criticize your AOG for wanting a “seat at the table.” Yet that “seat” has allowed us to have a positive influence on many Academy programs. I attend the superintendents staff meeting and have virtual open access to him and the senior leadership. As a result, our input and feedback are listened to and that has led to changes in policies from tightening Basic Cadet Training and the fourthclass system, to keeping the dean a military officer and getting senior leadership on the road to speak to graduates and parents. The superintendent believes the graduate community is an important constituency and he is committed to listening to them and addressing their concerns. Toward that end, he briefs our board at their quarterly meetings. Being a respected and responsible voice for the graduate community has also allowed us to briefat every meeting of the Board ofVisitors. They, too, are interested in hearing what concerns graduates have. As result of our involvement with the BOV, the FY 2005 Defense Authorization Bill contains a provision for two graduates to be on the BOV a first for that body.

We are striving to meet the goals of our mission statement. This is an important time in the history of your Association of Graduates. The proposed amendments have the very real potential of letting a very small group of graduates control the association. The board has recognized the need for more member involvement and has taken steps to move in

that direction in a responsible and orderly fashion. I encourage you to read this issue of Checkpoints closely and check our Web site for additional information about this election. Above all VOTE in May.

Respectfully,

Jim Shaw, ’67

From the ARC

IT’S YOUR TURN A time to decide A time to vote

Fellow AOG Members,

When Dick Rauschkolb, AOG VP for Communications and an old friend, graciously offered the AOG Reunification Committee (ARC) some space in this quarters Checkpoints my first impulse was to seize the opportunity to try to advance the ball towards the end zone, to score some points for ARC. But, Dicks generous offer on behalf of the AOG Board, coming in the midst of the “spirited” battle that is underway between the AOG Board and ARC on AOG governance issues, caused me to pause. And, in that moment, I was reminded once again of all that we as graduates of USAFA share, despite the differences that have precipitated the upcoming referendum.

As the AOG Board has said, this will be an historic vote, and arguably the most important vote ever, for our AOG. First, there is the matter ofelecting five new Directors to sit on the AOG Board. It’s been a while since we’ve had the opportunity to choose from a slate of several fine candidates who have presented themselves for election. They are to be commended for offering to serve. It would be wrong to characterize being an AOG Director as a thankless job, but it’s definitely a difficult job accomplished by volunteers who want nothing more than to serve you and me. They don’t get paid - in fact, they spend their own money to serve and their only reward is knowing that they are doing an important job. They deserve our consideration and participation in the election process.

Of equal importance this time around is a referendum on some very profound changes that go to the core ofthe system ofgovernance to be used by our AOG in the future. The vast majority of the AOG membership does not know very much about the details of the governance debate and would find the current debate a complex, confusing maze ofconflicting opinions. The key issues address election procedures and the fact that the Board - not the membership - can amend the AOG Bylaws without submitting the amendments

to a vote. But, as I said above, this is not a stump speech so I will only add that you can visit the ARC Web site at www.aogrc.org for everything you never wanted to know about the ARC Petition Referendum.

While I may disagree with the position the AOG Board has taken regarding the specifics of the referendum, I can also tell you with certainty that I know their beliefin the system ofgovernance they offer is a sincere one. Ironically, they and the ARC Board have embraced the same goals: we both support a governance system that will serve the interests of the graduate community, support our school, and protect the culture and heritage all graduates share. There is no question of their commitment, and I don’t doubt their sincerity for a second; but those of us who formed the ARC are just as passionate about the changes needed to produce a reunified and stronger AOG for the future.

Every one of the principals in this Spring’s election - the members of ARC and the AOG Board as well as those running for Board seats - all, each man and each woman, have invested considerable private time and resources, and have signed on for more, just to serve you, our AOG, and our school. Yes, it’s true that no one forced us to do it; but you understand that Academy graduates care about the Cadets of today and tomorrow, about our school, and about our fellow graduates. While not every AOG member is in a position to serve on the AOG Board, I feel comfortable asserting that we all want to be able to participate in some meaningful way to ensure that our country receives the best the Air Force Academy has to offer.

To applaud the efforts of the talented and dedicated graduates who are willing to serve and to govern the AOG as our representafives, we only need to do one thing: VOTE. The folks of the ARC got into this game for one reason, to give the members an opportunity to decide. If all 20-plus thousand of us vote in this election and the ARC Petition is defeated, we would still know we got what we

came for. It is already well established that the membership cares about how our AOG will be governed in the future. Direct marketing gurus tell us that a 5 percent response rate to any direct mailing effort is phenomenal. The fact that the ARC Petition campaign received more than a 23 percent response is unprecedented. While it is impressive that 98 percent ofthe respondents did support the governance changes proposed in the ARC Petition, the more important fact is that so many indicated that these issues are important to them.

Before closing, I’d like to thank the 5,000 ofyou who have supported the efforts ofARC since our start last October. And, I add special thanks for the hard work and commitment of the men and women who comprise the directors and officers ofARC and our core group of hard workers. Our participation in ARC has brought each of us into contact with long lost classmates and created new friendships and respect for fellow graduates from Classes old and new. Yes, there is a great deal of diversity that marks the years; but it does not divide us. There is a common ground we share with all ofyou, those for and against ARC, of selfless service and caring for our fellow graduates. Before we break ranks and go our separate ways, let’s all share one final task and VOTE together in this upcoming referendum.

After 30+ years of direct involvement in AOG issues, including seven as Executive Director of the AOG and two terms as an elected Director, I am hardly a neutral observer when it comes to AOG matters. Unfortunately, this background did not come with a crystal ball that would allow me to divine the solutions to the many issues that the membership must address in the 2005 Board Election and ARC Petition Referendum. Fortunately, I have every confidence that the members will get informed, will take the time to vote, and will make the correct decisions.

Respectfully,

Jim Wheeler, ’64

A Closer Look at the Election and Governance THE FACTS

INTRODUCTION

Since 1968, every two years, in odd-numbered years, the AOG has held an election ofdirectors. In May 2005, we will hold those elections once again. This election cycle is different than previous elections in two significant ways. First, we are electing directors to fill positions on a Board ofDirectors whose structure is significandy different than it has been. Second, in addition to electing directors, the members are asked to vote on five proposed amendments to the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws.

This special section outlines the history of the governance structure of the AOG and describes the current governance model and outlines the process by which the slate of candidates was selected. It then gives background on the petition that you will also be asked to vote on, shows the proposed bylaw amendments and outlines some things to think about before you cast your ballot. Finally, the section contains some answers to frequently asked questions about this petition.

The ballots for election ofdirectors and the vote on the proposed amendments will be mailed not later than 2 May 2005 and ballots must be received at the AOG offices not later than 17 June 2005. Please watch for the election packet and vote promptly.

HISTORY OF GOVERNANCE

The AOG was incorporated as a Colorado nonprofit corporation in 1968. The AOG mission of providing leadership and service

AOG’S PRIORITIES

1.The AOG is the bridge between the Long Blue Line of graduates, and cadets, USAFA and Air Force leadership.

2. The AOG is committed to serving the graduate community through a broad array of programs, representation, information, and advocacy.

3. Llie AOG is committed to preserving the institutional heritage and traditions of the Academy.

4. To ensure the best possible preparation for tomorrows leaders, the AOG works on behalfof LJSAFA to raise private binds to support and develop essential programs that would otherwise not be fully funded by the government.

to the graduate community; support for the Academy mission; and preservation ofinstitutional heritage and tradition has not changed in 37 years.

The original Articles of Incorporation gave the authority to amend Bylaws to the Board of Directors. However, the first Bylaws gave the authority to amend Bylaws to the membership, in contradiction to the Articles. The Boards were composed of 22 - 32 members

over the years and early Bylaws had requirements for as many as 10 directors to be assigned to the Academy or to live close to the Academy so that there would be a quorum for meetings of the Board. There were also some stipulations about the number of directors who were required to be “recent” graduates and how many were on active duty.

Over the years, a number of changes were made to the Bylaws to make them comply with Colorado law and to account for changing times and the growth of the AOG. In 1978, the Bylaws were changed to make them agree with the Articles ofIncorporation and, for the last 27 years, Bylaws amendments have been made by a 2/3 vote of the Board. Board size was changed several times. As the ability to travel increased and telecommunications advanced, the requirements to have directors assigned to the Academy or live locally became unnecessary and were changed (1988). The “requirement” to have a certain number ofactive duty directors was eliminated (1988). Directors were elected by the membership from a slate of candidates put together by a nominating committee. There were generally more candidates than vacancies and the top vote-getters won election. From 1968 to 1997 the AOG grew from nothing to an organization which owned a multimillion dollar building, had many employees and had responsibility for millions ofdollars in assets. In response to the growth, in 1997, the AOG Board changed to a governance structure similar to that used by many major corporations. Board size

was reduced from 31 to 14 and the election process changed. Although directors were still elected by the membership from a slate of candidates put together by a nominating committee, the number ofcandidates on the slate was equal to the number of vacancies. The members could vote for or against the slate and could write in candidates.

Elections Governance

and elected by the entire membership, and five are “decade” directors to be elected by members ofthat decade only.

■ The term of office for at-large directors is four years with a maximum of two terms. The term of office for decade directors is two years with a four term maximum. The decade directors were established to ensure

TheAOG mission ofprovidingleadership andservice to thegraduate community; supportfor theAcademy mission; andpreservation ofinstitutionalheritage and tradition has not changed in 37years.

In 2000, the Board began to see that this corporate governance model was perhaps not the most appropriate model. For one thing, the Board size was too small to ensure necessary diversity. They began studying ways that the model could be changed. In 2002, the size of the Board was increased to 20. Some designated Board positions were established which could be filled by people brought on to the Board for a specific purpose. Specifically, the Board, encouraged by the phenomenal success ofWest Point and Annapolis, decided to begin planning for a major comprehensive campaign to support the Academy. The two co-chairs of that campaign and the Chair of the Sabre Society needed to have specific skills and background associated with fund raising.

In 2003, the Board size increased to 21 but the Board was still concerned that this corporate model was perhaps not the most appropriate for a membership organization. Response from members indicated that there was a need for greater member involvement, greater than what the corporate model allowed. The Board convened a committee to review the issue, included non-board members on the committee, held open discussions at board meetings, heard from several members at those meetings and finally, in August 2004, adopted a new model. The Board size was set at 21 with 11 to be competitively elected by the membership and ten selected by the Board for their specific skills and abilities.

■ Ofthe 11 elected directors, six are “at-large”

cross-generational representation. The twoyear term for decade directors was established to benefit younger graduates who may like to serve but may not feel they can commit to four years, especially since board members must pay their own expenses.

■ The Nominating Committee was restructured to include four directors and three non-directors. Candidates may have their names placed in nomination by signature of five members. The Nominating Committee is tasked to review the qualifications of all candidates and recommend a slate composed of at least two candidates for each vacancy.

■ When fully implemented, three at-large directors and all five decade directors will be re-elected every two years. To ensure an orderly transition to this new model, the board adopted a plan that elects three at-large directors and two decade directors (’70s and ’90s) in 2005 and three additional at-large directors and all five decade directors in 2007.

■ In 2004, the Board, in response to member input, amended the Bylaws to include a provision for candidates to be placed directly on the ballot, without review by the Nominating Committee, by petition of 1 percent ofthe members. For the 2005 elections, names were able to be placed on the ballot by petition through 1 April 2005.

The Board recognizes that more adjustments to the Bylaws may be appropriate for

a membership organization of the size and characteristics of the AOG. To that end, the Board has established a Blue Ribbon Council on Governance (BRC). The BRC will undertake a long-term study of governance, seek member input and make a proposal for presentation to the Board and the membership. The Blue Ribbon Council on Governance includes twelve distinguished individuals, both graduates and non-graduates:

Lt. Col. (USAF Ret.) Tom Eller, ’61, is the Chief Executive Officer of Astro USA LLC; and former President, Vice President and Board Chairman ofthe AOG

Mr. Ted Legasey, ’67, AOG Board Chairman, Board Member and former Chief Operating Officer of SRA International Inc., listed by Fortune magazine as one of the “100 Best Companies To Work For In America” for the past six years.

Gen. (USAF Ret.) Ron Fogleman, ’63, former Chief of Staff of the Air Force and co-recipient of the first Distinguished Graduate Award.

Lt. Gen. (USAF Ret.) Brad Hosmer, ’59, first graduate ofthe first class and first graduate to be Superintendent of the Academy. General Flosmer is also a recipient ofthe Distinguished Graduate Award. He will Chair the Blue Ribbon Council.

Ms. Nancy Kudla, ’80, is the ChiefExecutive Officer of dNovus RDI, a $16M company that offers information technology service to military, industrial and government clients. Gen. (USAF Ret.) Jim McCarthy, former AOC and Vice Commandant, former DCINC USEUCOM, parent of a graduate and currently occupying the Olin Chair in the Political Science Department at the Air Force Academy.

Mr. Ira Millstein, attorney and senior partner in Weil, Gotshal & Manges and one of the foremost experts on corporate governance.

Mr. Harry Pearce, ’64, AOG Board member and former Vice Chairman ofGeneral Motors and co-recipient of the first Distinguished Graduate Award.

Gen. (USAF Ret.) Mike Ryan, ’65, former Chief of Staff of the Air Force and Chair of the Ryan Commission which examined the mission ofthe Athletic Department.

Ms. Holly Svetz, ’80, is an attorney with the firm Morrison and Foerster in McLean,

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Va., where she focuses on technology issues, intellectual property and innovative forms of research and development contracts.

Brig. Gen. (USAF Ret.) Mai Wakin, former USAFA Permanent Professor of Philosophy, distinguished graduate ofNotre Dame and a man known as the conscience ofthe Air Force.

Mr. Wayne Whalen, ’61, attorney and partner in Skadden, Arps, Slate, Meagher & Flom, LLP Mr. Whalen is Chairman of the Board of the Van Kampen Funds, a $90 Billion mutual fund complex.

2005 ELECTION OF DIRECTORS

The slate of 20 candidates for five vacancies reviewed and recommended by the Nominating Committee, for the 2005 elections are listed below. As of31 March 2005, no nominations bypetition had yet been received. The Nominating Committee included directors

A1 Rogers ’64 (Committee Chair), Bill Maywhort ’68, Gil Mook ’67, John Moore ’78, and non-directors Bob Goodwin ’95, Dave MacGhee ’70, and Vic Thuotte ’73. The Nominating Committee reviewed the candidate packet ofeach candidate and conducted at least one personal interview with each candidate before making its recommendation. Candidates recommended by the Nominating Committee for the 2005 elections for at-large and decade directors are:

Andrew W. Biancur '60 At-large

Michael! Christy ’63 At-large

Donald J. Clement 74 At-large and 70s Decade

Harry F. Davis 71 At-large and 70s Decade

Edie Edmondson '92 At-large and ’90s Decade

Paul J. Ferguson ’99 At-large and ’90s Decade

William S. Finch ’65 At-large

Michael J. Flynn ’95 At-large and ’90s Decade

Martin E.B. France ’81 At-large

Thomas A. Fryer ’63 At-large

Patrick K. Garvey 72 At-large and 70s Decade

PatrickA. Goodman ’86 At-large

RobertA. Lowe 71 At-large and 70s Decade

Robert N.Mishev ’99 At-large and ’90s Decade

Dan Ronneberg ’97 At-large and '90s Decade

Patrick M. Rosenow 76 At-large and 70s Decade

Scott B. Sonnenberg ’69 At-large

J.W. “Bill" Stealey 70 At-large and 70s Decade

GaryVan Valin ’66 At-large

RodneyA. Wells ’64 At-large

Candidates may stand for election in both at-large and appropriate decade categories. Ifa candidate wins in both categories, the candidate will have his/her choice and the vacated position will be given to the next highest vote-getter. A candidate may not serve in both categories simultaneously.

The ballot for the 2005 elections will be mailed not later than 2 May 2005 and will contain a biography and a statement ofcandi

vote and a say in all programs conducted at the Academy. They believe that “preservation of institutional heritage and tradition” means ensuring that the graduate community has a vote and a say in virtually everything that happens in the daily life of a cadet.

They believe that the current AOG Board has failed to accomplish the AOG mission. They found that the governance model did not allow for a rapid changeover of the

Approximately 80percent ofthe membership did not respond to either thepetition or the appealfor e-mail addresses.

dacy for each candidate. The AOG Web site at www.usafa.org will also contain candidate information. Any candidates placed on the ballot by petition will have the same information included.

WHAT CAUSED THIS CONTROVERSY?

Despite the changes to the governance model, some graduates do not believe that the changes have gone far enough. They believe that the current AOG board has strayed from the original AOG mission, alienated the membership and has failed to hold the Academy accountable for many of the changes of the last two years. In fact, by their own words, they were against several of the items in theAgendafor Change, which was mandated on the Academy by the Air Force Secretary and ChiefofStaff. They believe that the AOG board failed to prevent some ofthe ordered changes from being implemented and also failed to ensure that certain other changes were made. They appear to have a strong belief that the AOG should be in the Air Force chain-of-command.

The original mission of the AOG, as written, has not changed in 37 years. Some graduates believe that “leadership for the graduate community” should include making the graduates a political force which is able to tell the Air Force and the Academy what it will and will not do. A group ofgraduates believe that “supporting theAcademy mission” means ensuring that the graduate community has a

Board; that, in their view, the Board could not be held immediately accountable to the membership; and they concluded that the governance model must be changed.

Two years ago, members who would later form the ARC began demanding changes in governance. As noted above, the Board was undertaking changes and included these individuals in the discussions, including seats on a review committee. These individuals attended Board meetings, wrote papers and made presentations. Although many of their concepts were adopted and implemented, their entire proposal, exactly as submitted, was not adopted. Thus they formed the ARC.

Under a provision of Colorado law, the ARC asked for and received the mailing addresses of the entire AOG membership. They paid to send a petition to the entire membership asking not only for their signature on the petition but asking that the membership voluntarily provide them with their e-mail addresses. Some 20 percent ofthe membership signed the petition and a similar number provided their e-mail addresses so that the ARC could continue to press their case. Approximately 80 percent of the membership did not respond to either the petition or the appeal for e-mail addresses. The ARC demanded the e-mail addresses for the entire membership under the same law. The AOG refused to provide the addresses because the law does not specify e-mail addresses and because the AOG felt it was obliged to protect the privacy of its members; members

who, having been asked by the ARC for their addresses, had chosen not to provide them. The ARC threatened a lawsuit to obtain the e-mail addresses. The AOG filed a Request for Declaratory Judgment with the court seeking to obtain clarification from the court as to what the law required. The Declaratory Judgment has yet to be rendered. In the interest offairness, the AOG will not use its e-mail addresses to advocate its position even among those members who gave their addresses to the ARC.

Under Colorado law, if a minimum of 10 percent of the membership sign a petition, the contents ofthat petition must be taken to a vote of the membership. A vote on the elements ofthe ARC petition will be included in the ballot. Since the ARC mailed the petition to every member, you should have previously received one. Nonetheless, the ARC petition is as follows:

ProposedAmendment to Articles

■ Article IV of the Articles of Incorporation shall be revised to read in its entirety: “The power to alter, amend, or repeal the ByLaws in whole or in part, or to adopt new By-Laws, shall be vested in the voting members. The procedure for amendment of the Articles shall be identical to those prescribed for amendment of the By-Laws. Except with respect to those amendments expressly permitted by Colorado law to be adopted by a board of directors without members’ approval, the power to alter, amend, or restate these Articles of Incorporation shall be vested in the voting members.”

ProposedAmendments to By-Laws

Elected Directors

■ That Article VIII, Section 1 shall include a new subsection c. which shall read: “Member Nominations. Every issue of Checkpoints shall carry an item indicating to whom a member ofthe AOG may make known his or her desire to run for election as a Director ofthe AOG, and the calendar for nominations and elections. The Nominating Committee shall include, without further review, in the slate of candidates for the next election, all members that have indicated an interest in serving on the Board of Directors between the date of the last election and the open nomination

closing date and who also have provided a document showing support of 25 AOG members by their signatures.”

Amendment ofthe By-Laws

■ Article XV, Section 2 shall be renumbered as Article XVI and shall read: “Unless otherwise required by law, any action by the members to amend, alter, or repeal these By-Laws shall be conducted by written ballot delivered to all the voting members. The number of ballots received by the corporation within 60 days after the date of the last mailing of such ballots to the

the required timelines. To be included in the ballot, the pro and con positions shall be received by the Board and exchanged between the interested parties within 15 days after the date Checkpoints have been received by the voting members. The rebuttal positions shall be received by the Board and exchanged between the interested parties within 15 days of receipt of the pro and con positions. The Board of Directors shall prepare a ballot including the timely received proposed amendment and statements describing the pro, con, and rebuttal positions of the Board of

Theseproposed amendments collected under the banner of “Let the Members Decide” seem benign and appealing. Infact as we will note the general “concepts” have already been adopted

voting members shall constitute a quorum for such purposes and a majority of such ballots received voting in favor shall be required for any such amendment, alteration, or repeal ofthese By-Laws.”

Membership Presentation ofBy-Laws Amendments to the Board

■ Article VII, Section 2 shall read: “The Board of Directors may submit to the voting members such issues and amendments to the By-Laws as it deems appropriate for a vote. In addition, amendments to the By-Laws that are presented to the Board of Directors by signature of 100 voting members or more shall be presented by the Board of Directors to the voting members for a vote. After either the voting members or Board of Directors proposes an amendment to the ByLaws, the proposed amendment shall be published in the next issue of Checkpoints.

The Checkpoints shall also state that the Board of Directors and any group of 100 voting members or more may submit pro, con, and rebuttal positions on any By-Laws amendment for inclusion on the ballot and include a description of

Directors and any group of 100 voting members or more. The Board of Directors shall submit the ballot to the voting members within 30 days of the deadline for receipt ofrebuttal positions.”

Non-Substantive Changes to the By Laws

■ The Board of Directors shall have the authority to make non-substantive wording and numberingchanges to the By-Laws for the purpose ofensuring the consistency, grammatical correctness, and coherence of the Amendments.

Demand that Amendments by Submitted to Member Vote

■ The AOG shall submit the Amendments contained in this Petition to a vote of the voting members, which vote shall be conducted by means of a written ballot, no later than 30 days after receipt of Petitions constituting ten percent of the voting members.

CONSIDERATIONS

These proposed amendments, collected under the banner of “Let the Members Decide” seem benign and appealing. In fact,

The AOG Board ofDirectors encourages all members to study the issues and vote in this important election.

as we will note, the general “concepts” have already been adopted or already exist under Colorado law. The devil is in the details.

Articles ofIncorporation

The ARC claims that the “AOG membership has been completely stripped of any way to participate in the operations of our Association.” They imply that the current AOG Board made these changes and eliminated these rights. This is clearly not the case. The original Articles of Incorporation adopted in 1968 by the founders of the AOG gave the authority to change the Bylaws to the AOG Board of Directors and not to the membership. Their reasoning and thinking at the time are not known. Despite this adoption, the earliest Bylaws gave the authority to the membership, in conflict with the Articles of Incorporation. In 1978, the then Board of Directors, including several current members ofthe ARC leadership, proposed amendments to the Bylaws to give the Board of Directors the authority to amend the Bylaws. Almost 57 percent ofthe membership approved these changes.Theyapparently believed that having the authority to change the Bylaws vested in the board ofdirectors was best for the organization and the membership.

The ARC assertion that the “AOG membership has been completely stripped of any way to participate in the operations of our association” is incorrect. Any AOG member may attend and participate in Board and committee meetings, may serve on committees and present himself or herself to the Boards Nominating Committee for consideration to be included in the slate of nominees for election as a director. Additionally any member is also entitled to be placed on the ballot for election as a director without Nominating Committee approval upon petition of 1 percent of the AOG membership. The latter method of access to the ballot is the result of the Boards February amendment to the Bylaws.

The Board believes both the membership and the Board should be empowered to amend the Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws and that is the law today in Colorado. Unless the AOG Bylaws provide otherwise (which they do not), under Colorado law, Articles of Incorporation and Bylaws may be amended upon a petition of 10 percent ofthe membership with a quorum of 25 percent of the membership and a simple majority vote. Under the AOG Bylaws, the Board may also amend the Articles ofIncorporation or Bylaws upon a two-thirds vote ofall directors.

Elected Directors

This proposed amendment would require that a members name be placed on the ballot for election as a director by petition of 25 members. This provision, nomination by petition, has already been adopted but with a requirement for signatures of 1 percent of the membership (vice 25 members). In 1968, the original Bylaws allowed for nomination by petition of 25 signatures. In 1968, the AOG had less than 10 percent of the membership it has today and 25 signatures was approximately 1 percent ofthe membership.

Amendment ofthe By-Laws

This proposed amendment would require all votes and elections to be conducted by “written ballot” mailed (“delivered”) to all members. It further sets the quorum for a vote on amending the Bylaws at “the number of ballots received.” In this age of electronic voting, restricting voting procedure to a mailed paper ballot is unnecessary and expensive. The AOG is conducting this vote by written ballot because the ARC petition demands it. In the future, the AOG believes that electronic voting is far more efficient and cost effective. An equally important issue is setting a quorum for amending Bylaws which has no lower limit. While that size quorum is appropriate for votes on issues and/or votes

for directors, it is simply too small for a vote on amending the Bylaws. Colorado law establishes 25 percent of the membership as the minimum quorum and Robert’s Rules of Order says that in excess of 50 percent of the membership should be required.

Membership Presentation of By-Laws Amendments to the Board

This amendment would allow a mere 100 members to propose an amendment and require a vote of the membership. This provision already exists under Colorado law but with a requirement for 10 percent of the membership to endorse the proposal.

However, even more troubling are the details of the process by which such proposals would be considered by the membership. The proposal would have to be presented to the membership in the “next issue of Checkpoints.” This establishes a procedure where amendments must be considered up to four times each year and without limit and without consideration for other proposals that may already be under consideration. It calls for a mere 15 days for membership input thus requiring that every member read Checkpoints immediately upon receipt. While it seems to indicate that all member comments would be published with the ballot, it restricts publication to those comments shared by a group of 100 members. While seeming to foster and encourage member discussion of proposals, it, in fact, restricts discussion to those graduates who can muster the support of 99 other graduates in a short 15 days. It, in fact, restricts discussion to the group of 100 which submitted the proposal and the AOG Board of Directors. The requirements for the first publication in Checkpoints the two fifteenday response periods and the submission of the ballot will require a special mailing ofballots up to four times annually and cost at least $10,000 for each mailing.

Non-Substantive Changes to the By-Laws

This proposed amendment is unnecessary because the Board already has the authority to make such changes.

CONCLUSION

The Association of Graduates is the alumni association of one of the preeminent service academies and one of the most prestigious

institutions in the United States. In 37 years it has grown to nearly 22,000 members with a magnificent alumni house which has become an integral part of Academy life. It now administers programs far in excess of other civilian alumni associations and the equal of our sister academies. The AOG supports the graduate community with reunions, an award-winning alumni magazine, career transition programs, dependent scholarships, and merchandise. The AOG supports the Academy mission through the Outstanding Squadron Banquet, the class crest and ring program, Bed & Breakfast,

In-processing, commissioning ceremonies, graduation week and parent weekend open houses and through direct financial support.

The AOG preserves institutional heritage and traditions through the Graduate War Memorial, the Heritage Trail, Distinguished Graduate Awards, and recording and publicizing graduate accomplishments to the graduate community and the Cadet Wing. In short, these are only a few of the things that the AOG is doing to fulfill the original three parts ofthe AOG mission.

The proposals put forth by the ARC will ultimately harm the prestige and success

of the Association of Graduates by placing excessive emphasis and resources on a narrow aspect of that mission. Governance is important and changes have been made and are continuing. The AOG Board of Directors recommends that all members vote against these proposals which can have serious unintended consequences.

tffie AOQAnswers O^our Questions

The AOG Position on the Governance Issue

A small group ofgraduates formed the AOG Reunification Committee (ARC). This group has proposed amendments to the Association’s Bylaws and has obtained signatures of over ten percent of the membership in support of their amendments. As a result and pursuant to Colorado Law, the proposed ARC amendments are required to be put to a vote of the entire membership—approximately 22,000 members. The AOG Board believes that the ARC proposals do not provide for an orderly transition to a better governance model. The AOG Board has worked hard to meet many ofthe ARC’s demands. We know of no alumni association or non-profit organization that would adopt their amendments. Mr. Ira Millstein, one ofthe country’s leading experts on governance issues, cautions against adopting the ARC proposals. The ARC proposed amendments, with no checks and balances, will pave the way to allowing the majority to be controlled by a vocal minority. Please become familiar with the facts that are included in this document. It is your Association and NOW IS THE TIME for you to become actively involved in protecting this proud organization.

WHAT DOES THE ARC WANT?

The ARC believes that the membership, and only the membership, should be allowed to change the Bylaws of the AOG. They have proposed major changes to the Articles of Incorporation of the AOG and the AOG Bylaws. They have also proposed an amendment that would allow names to be placed on the ballot for election as directors of the board by petition of ONLY 25 members; and an amendment that would allow ONLY 100 members to propose amendments and require a vote ofthe membership.

The amendment that causes the most concern involves their definition ofa quorum and the number of votes required to pass a bylaw amendment. Theydefine a quorum as those

voting—not a percentage ofthe membership. A simple majority of those voting would allow a bylaw amendment to be passed. Robert’s Rules ofOrder states that the quorum for votes on amendments should be at least the majority of the membership and 2/3 vote of that quorum should be required to carry the issue. The intention of Robert’s Rules ofOrder is to prevent the domination of a minority of members at the expense of the majority. The AOG Board s position follows Colorado Law and defines a quorum as 25 percent of the membership and a simple majority ofthat quorum would carry the vote on an amendment.

WHAT DOES THE AOG BOARD BELIEVE IS THE PROPER ROLE FOR AN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION?

The primary purpose of an alumni association is to support the institution by fanning the flames of enthusiasm among the alumni community and to support graduate activities and needs. It provides ways to connect graduates with other graduates and reconnect all graduates with the institution. An alumni association seeks to highlight and validate the success of the institution by discovering and heralding its distinguished graduates. It seeks to assist the institution in providing the same high-quality educational experience that the alumni enjoyed and to help the school continue to provide an outstanding product

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Governance AOG Jt:^

in the future. It should also be a communication conduit that provides feedback to Air Force and Academy leadership and the Board of Visitors on graduate concerns. The Association of Graduates of the United States Air Force Academy does all these things.

Additionally, the AOG Board believes that the core values and the essence ofwhat we all value as graduates should be maintained. The Board position on the Essential Elements of the Academy Experience was presented to the Academy last year and is located on our Web site at www.usafa.org. The Board believes that working quiedy with the Academy rather than taking a confrontational public approach is the proper and professional course of action. The AOG has become a respected voice and, as a result, we attend the Superintendents staff meetings, have advisory roles in many Academy committees and programs, and we now are invited to brief the Academy Board ofVisitors at its quarterly meetings. The AOG also lobbied effectively to get two seats on the Board of Visitors for graduates—a first. We have a seat at the table and the opinions of the graduate community are valued. Taking a confrontational, public approach with Academy and the Air Force leadership is likely to result in an AOG that has no influence at all.

WHAT ARE THE MAJOR AREAS OF DISAGREEMENT BETWEEN THE AOG BOARD AND THE ARC?

The Board has been working on governance issues since long before the ARC was formed. The Board agrees with the general concepts of the ARC proposals and, in fact, many of the concepts already are in place. The Board has implemented the provision which provides the membership with the ability to place names on the ballot for election of directors without review by the Nominating Committee. The provision giving members the ability to propose and require a membership vote on amendments is already enacted in Colorado law. The ARC wants to change the Articles of Incorporation to give the membership sole authority to change Bylaws; the Board believes it is best to continue to share the authority to make Bylaws changes with the membership. Bylaws are intended to be a contract with the membership concerning how an organiza

tion is to be run. Robert’s Rules ofOrder and other parliamentary authorities point out that Bylaws must be carefully crafted and should not be changed without good reason and then only by a two-thirds vote of the majority of the membership. Bylaws need to be relatively stable and not subject to capricious change at the whim of a small minority ofmembers. The concepts that the ARC proposes are already implemented; the level of procedural detail that the ARC proposes to place in the Bylaws, and the details themselves are not in the best interests of AOG members. The membership should let the Blue Ribbon Council do its work before radically altering the orderly transition to a new governance model.

WHAT IS THE CONCERN WITH THE NUMBERS OF MEMBERS REQUIRED

TO PLACE A NAME ON THE BALLOT OR REQUIRE AVOTE OF THE MEMBERSHIP?

The ARC proposes to use the same number of members (25 and 100) that were used in 1968. In 1968, 25 members were about 1.1 percent of the membership; today it is .11 percent (one-tenth of one percent) of the membership. In 1968, 100 members were approximately 4.55 percent of the membership; today it is .045 percent (less than one-half of one percent) of the membership. Allowing these small numbers to control the future of the AOG is contrary to the best practices of governance. The ARC proposal does not allow for any checks and balances or even appropriate discussion. In fact, it effectively limits discussion to groups of 100 which submitted the by law amendment. It paves the way for repetitive and casual proposals at great expense to the organization. Most successful organizations are not so structured. In 1968, with no Web sites, e-mail or cheap telephone service, these numbers made it possible but difficult to attain. It effectively encouraged serious candidates, ideas and proposals. Thus it should be today.

The Board has reestablished the ability to place names on the ballot by petition of 1 percent of the membership; the historic rate. Colorado law allows amendments and other proposals to be put to the membership by 10 percent of the membership; the ARC petition has demonstrated that this can be done. Implementing their proposal would allow

very small groups of members to hold the organization hostage. These proposals do not increase involvement of all members. Rather, they give disproportionate control to a small number ofthe most vocal members.

WHAT IS THE DIFFICULTYWITH REQUIRING THAT A PROPOSED AMENDMENT BE ANNOUNCED IN THE “NEXT” ISSUE OF CHECKPOINTS*

The requirement poses four problems. First, it does not adequately define when an amendment must be submitted and leaves open to dispute whether the proposal was processed in a timely manner. Second, it allows for consideration of amendments up to four times annually and, together with certain other provisions in the amendment, will allow for a second amendment to be taken to a vote ofthe membership before the results of the preceding vote are determined. Third, it prevents amendments from being considered collectively with other membership or boardproposed amendments in a particular timeframe. Fourth, this methodology provides no limits on the number of times a proposal can be considered and does not provide a way to seriously consider a proposal collectively with other proposals.

WHAT IS THE DIFFICULTYWITH THE REQUIREMENT FOR A “WRITTEN” BALLOT?

This again harkens back to the ‘60s when a written ballot mailed to the membership was the only way to conduct a vote. Today there are ever-improving technologies and methodologies for conducting balloting electronically at far less cost. Sending a mailing to 22,000 members costs between $10,000 and $40,000 depending on the contents of the mailing. These amendments will require mailed ballots as many as four times annually for any proposal put forth by as few as 100 (.045 percent) of the membership. Since no limits are imposed, the same group of members could continue to require a vote on a proposal that has been previously rejected multiple times by the members. This is an unwarranted expense for the organization.

WHAT IS THE CONCERN WITH REQUIRING AVOTE BY MAIL UP TO FOUR TIMES ANNUALLY?

In addition to the cost noted above, requiring proposed amendments to be considered in isolation from one another up to four times each year precludes deliberate discussion on how one proposal fits with another. This methodology would allow for one proposed amendment to be completely at odds with another amendment already under consideration. It is chaotic.

WHAT IS THE CONCERNWITH ONLY PUBLISHING THE OPINIONS OF GROUPS OF 100 OR MORE MEMBERS?

In the ARC petition an individual opinion counts only if supported by 99 other members. The amendment purports to seek the opinions ofthe membership and to have those opinions published with the ballot. But then it limits publication of opinions to those shared by 100 members or more. It means that an individual member must read Checkpoints as soon as it arrives, form an opinion and, ifdifferent from the group that made the proposal, find 99 other graduates, in fifteen days, who agree. The affect ofthis provision is to limit discussion on a proposed amendment to the group that submitted it and the AOG Board of Directors. This is not “letting the members decide.” It is prescribing a way that a small group ofmembers can impose their will on the membership.

ARE THERE ANY DOWNSIDES TO APPROVING THE ARC PETITION?

There are significant downsides. Approval of these changes will potentially place the fate of the AOG in the hands of any tiny group of 100 members. They give these groups unlimited ability to put forth amendments, regardless of how frivolous or ill-conceived, and require a “written” vote of the membership. These amendments limit, rather than enhance, discussion among members. They allow a group of 100 to capture the floor. Written balloting, especially for frivolous and ill-conceived amendments (there are no checks and balances in their proposal), is expensive and time consuming. The ARC amendments allow up to four ballots each year at a minimum cost of $10,000 - $40,000 per ballot. There is

no limit on putting forth these petitions so a group of 100 who fails in its first attempt to pass a proposal can continue to submit it without end.

WHAT IS WRONGWITH THE SLOGAN

“LET THE MEMBERS DECIDE?”

Members have always “elected” directors although for a time the slate ofcandidates consisted of one nominee for each vacancy with a write-in capability. This method is used by most majorcorporations and many non-profit organizations of our type. It is also misleading because it implies that members should decide every issue. This slogan is appealing but the business of operating an organization with $30 million in assets and 22,000 members in 50 states and some foreign countries does not lend itself to being run in a purely democratic manner. In fact, very few national organizations are run that way. As in our government, members should elect representative directors. They then set policy for the organization which is implemented by the staff. If the directors displease the members, they have the opportunity to vote them out during normally scheduled elections. ARC amendments allow any small group to overthrow any board by proposing Bylaw amendments calling for an immediate election.

WILL PASSAGE OF THESE AMENDMENTS UNDERMINE THE ABILITY OF THE AOG TO ACCOMPLISH ITS MISSION?

Yes. If passed, these ARC amendments will create an environment where small groups of graduates can require membership votes on a never-ending stream of proposed amendments. This will incur a tremendous drain on AOG resources ofboth time and money (as it is already doing).

HAS THE AOG BOARD TAKEN ANY STEPS TO MEET THE CONCERNS OF THE ARC?

Yes. In fact, the concepts proposed by the ARC have been implemented and were begun well before the ARC was formed. Specifically,

1. Board size was changed from 18 to 21 with the majority (11) openly elected by the membership.

2. Election method was changed from single slate where the number of candidates equaled the number of vacancies to a ballot with at least two candidates for

each ofthe eleven vacancies with the top vote-getters winning the election.

3. The Nominating Committee was expanded from four to seven members with three committee members being non-directors.

4. The ability for members to place names direcdy on the ballot by petition of the members and without review by the Nominating Committee was adopted in time for the 2005 elections.

5. The provision for members to propose amendments and require a vote of the membership already exists under Colorado law.

6. The Board has recognized that perhaps more changes are appropriate and has convened the Blue Ribbon Council (BRC) to make a long-term study of governance practices and propose a model and Bylaws most appropriate to our organization at this time.

DON’T GOVERNMENT FUNDS PROVIDE FOR ALL THE ACADEMY’S NEEDS?

The federal government and the Air Force will continue to provide adequate funding for the Academy’s core programs. Private funds provide “the extra margin ofexcellence” that makes a good school great. Constrained federal funding due to the War on Terrorism, intense competition for the best and brightest students, and preparing our graduates to lead in an increasinglycomplex, technically sophisticated, and morally ambiguous world are areas in which private funding can make a significant impact.

WHAT IS THE BLUE RIBBON COUNCIL (BRC) THAT HAS BEEN ESTABLISHED?

The BRC has been established to make a study of AOG governance and to propose a governance model and Bylaws which are most appropriate to a national membership organization ofour size and purpose. Both the Board Chairs letter and an article on the previous pages identify the distinguished members of this Council. Rather than jump into a major overhaul of the AOG’s governance model, members should allow the BRC to do its business and make recommendations for the membership to vote on. If you believe this is a reasonable course ofaction, you should vote against the ARC amendments. t>

Elections

Governance

MANY ARC SUPPORTERS SEEM TO BE OPPOSED TO FUND RAISING. ISN’T THAT A MAJOR ROLE OF AN ALUMNI ASSOCIATION?

Fund raising (gifts of private and corporate dollars) is what makes a good institution great. For some schools, it makes the difference between being in business and going out of business. Yale and Harvard would not be what they are today if they relied solely on tuition and other revenues to operate. Alumni departments are always part of the development effort. Sometimes they are central to

it and sometimes they play a more indirect role. However it is done, raising funds from alumni to make the school better than it otherwise would be is an important and appropriate role for the alumni association. Private funding has provided Falcon Stadium, the Eisenhower golf courses, the contents of the chapels and the Visitors Center. AOG-raised funds have provided sailplanes, guest speakers, and overseas travel, and have funded the Academy Assembly, the National Character and Leadership Symposium, the Falcon Heritage Forum, the Military History Symposium

and many other outstanding enhancements to the Academy experience. West Point and Annapolis have successfully undertaken comprehensive campaigns which have raised more than $200 million for each school to improve facilities and programs. B

2005 TRIPS

2005) Back by popular demand, this small ship cruise to the Adriatic and the Dalmatian Coast includes the romance ofVenice, the art of Ravenna and the history of Dubrovnik and other coastal towns. 9 days (from $2595 plus air) (Thomas P. Gohagan & Company)

Cruise North America’s Great Lakes Aboard the M.S. Columbus (Sep. 2-12, 2005) From the cosmopolitan Toronto to the tranquil shores ofLake Michigan

visits to scenic Mackinac Island, historic Sault Ste. Marie, and beautiful Georgian Bay. 1 1 days (from $2795 plus air) (Thomas P. Gohagan & Company)

Charlemagne’s Dream (Sep. 23-Oct. 1, 2005) From a vision of the future in 793 A.D. to its completion in 1992, the Main Danube Canal has been a dream- connecting the Main river and the Danube; it connects the North Sea to the Black Sea, and has changed Europe forever. Marvel at the engineering feats, plus enjoy the old world towns and history from Nuremberg to Vienna. 9 days (from $1995 plus air) (Alumni Holidays International)

***Please note prices and dates are tentative. Contact Joint Academy Travel for final information.

Cadet Chorale sings at Super Bowl XXXIX

USAFA Public Affairs

The 25-voice Cadet Chorale joined cadets from the U.S. Naval Academy Glee Club, the U.S. MilitaryAcademy Choir and U.S. Coast Guard Academy Choir in singing the National Anthem at Super Bowl XXXIX.

This joint choir performed a tribute to World War II veterans, who were honored at the event. Veterans from various units and organizations, including the Tuskegee Airmen, were present.

This was the first time in 30 years that all four service academies sang together. The

4

last time was in 1973 for President Nixon’s inauguration. The last time the Cadet Chorale sang at a Super Bowl was in 1972.

Birds of feather flock in Qatar

By Capt. Jason Arnold, ’97 Forty-two Academy graduates deployed to the Combined Air Operations Center in A1 Udeid, Qatar, recently gathered for a unique “photo op.”

The CAOC is a command-and-control facility established for planning, directing and monitoring the execution of air and space operations. The CAOC orchestrates the movement of large numbers of aircraft

to ensure that the right weapons or sensors are in the right place at the right time. It is known as the Falconer Weapon System.

The Al Udeid CAOC runs air and space operations in Afghanistan and in the Florn ofAfrica in support ofOperation Enduring Freedom and in Iraq supporting Operation Iraqi Freedom. Our thanks go out to these and all grads serving around the world.

Academy answers ailing youth’s wish to join the Cadet Wing Academy Spirit

A child made a wish and it came true. Thirteen-year-oldJames Chestnut from Kempner, Texas, was named one ofthe newest members ofthe Cadet Wing and took in the experience of a lifetime as part of Academy’s ongoing Cadet for a Day program. James has been diagnosed with muscular dystrophy - but not even the debilitating disease could stop him from joining the ranks ofthe Cadet Wing.

Cadet Chestnut donned a flight suit and flight cap to participate in a host of cadet activities, including a mission briefing at the 94th Flying Training Squadron, a tour of the airfield and Fire Station 2. The youngster also took an orientation ride in a flight training aircraft.

Following his participation in the Cadet Wing’s noon meal formation and lunch with the wing, James toured an Air Battle Laboratory flight simulator and the Cadet Chapel.

Maj. Bob Starr, '92, Capt. Paul Wood, ’95, Maj. Brandon Baker, ’92, Lt. Col. Robert Nuanes, ’84, Maj. Bryan Dooley, ’83, Col. Marty Edmonds, ’80, Maj. Sean McCarthy, ’93, Maj. Edward Presley, ’90.

Mike Develle, ’98, Lt. Col. R. Joseph Tegtmeyer, ’88, Maj. Stephen West, ’82,1Lt. Mitchell Randolph, ’01, Capt. Jim Schneider, '99, Capt. Brent Manbeck, '99, Maj. Brian McClay, ’91, Capt. Wendell McGinnis, ’96, Lt. Col. Dennis “Joe” Simpson, '85, Lt. Col. (Ret.) Doug Lee, 78, Maj. Scott Lavigne, ’90, Lt. Col. Steve Herman, ’86, Maj. Keith Felter, ’91, Col. Dennie Grunstad, '81.

The honorary cadet’s visit was the latest ofseveral in recent years. The Academy has conducted the Cadet for a Day program in cooperation with the Make-A-Wish Foundation for almost five years, said Debbie Kirton, communications director for Make-A-Wish Foundation of Colorado. Three to four children each year participate in the program.

Combined Air Operations Center

Front row from left: Maj. John Bell, '90, Capt. Diallo Creal, ’96, Maj. Michael Weiss, ’92, Capt. Jason Arnold, ’97, Capt. JeffJohnston, ’00,1Lt. Janene Drummer, '01, Lt. Col. Jim Shaffer, ’81, Maj. Gen. Norman Seip, 74, Lt. Gen. Walter Buchanan, 72, Brig. Gen. Mark Zamzow, 78, Lt. Col. Mark Trudeau, ’86, Maj. Scott Weber, ’93, Maj. Eric Grace, '94, Maj. Stephen Mcllvaine, ’94, Capt. Annemaria Hornby, ’99. Middle row from left: Capt. John Gerst, ’96, Maj. Michael Borys, ’93, Maj. Kevin Brooks, ’86, Maj. Bill Page, ’87,1 Lt. Brandon Donaldson, ’01,

Back row from left: Capt.

BEHIND THE SCENES

Cadet Semester Exchange Program fosters legacy of cultural bonding

By Butch Wehry, Academy Spirit

Last fall ClC Melissa Bland and seven other Academy cadets spent a semester at the Ecole de l’Air focusing on the academic, military and athletic pillars the institution shares in common with their own academy.

Bland has been learning French since she was about 12. “When I arrived at the Academy, I found out about the opportunity to study in France at its AFA for a semester. Since that point, I have focused on my studies so I would be competitive for the exchange. My love for culture, travel and new experiences is ultimately what drew me to the exchange, in addition to my French language studies.”

The double major in foreign area studies and humanities with a French language minor has no reservations about the validity of this venerable program. “The French exchange program provides cadets a forum for a cultural and military exchange that is extremely beneficial to both Air Forces, as well as the individual,” she said. “With six months in France, we are able to really increase our language ability, as well as foster friendships and ties to our counterparts, the future French air force officers.”

Bland is convinced she will be a more culturally aware andwell-rounded officer because of this exchange. “In addition, with my language ability, I will have no problem working overseas,” said, the future pilot. “Living in

France and being at the French Air Force Academy has changed my life in so many positive ways, it’s hard to say just one thing! It has been amazing.”

The Association of Graduates is a proud supporter of the Cadet Semester Exchange Program.

Class of 2005 unveils class painting

By C1C Matt Colvin

The Class of 2005 is proud to announce the completion of its official class painting, “To Match My Mountains.” We sought from the very beginning to make this painting a reflection of our class and the way we want to remember our Air Force Academy. We are

proud of our Academy and recognize the hard work it has taken to get here, to excel here, and to leave a legacyworthy ofremembrance.

Unlike previous remarkable class paintings by Rick Broome, “To Match My Mountains” does not show the Academy from a distant aerial view; instead it shows the Academy as we want to remember it. Our painting reflects what cadets experience everyday, with a personal view of the Air Gardens, Cadet Chapel, dorms, and mountains as seen from VandyTower.

This painting is meant to stir the emotions of every member of the Long Blue Line. A cadet’s entire Academy experience can be seen in the past, present and future theme of the painting. The past is represented by the bottom third of the painting which shows the footprints, where civilian life is laid to rest. The ramp marks the transition from civilian life to life as a cadet.

The present is in the middle third of the painting detailing the terrazzo, where the majority of a cadets life is spent. Finally, the future is portrayed in the upper third of the painting which shows the vastness ofthe sky with the Thunderbirds flying overhead in the stinger formation. The moon and stars are also visible, symbolizing the importance of space in our Air Force mission.

Two editions of our painting will be published. The first edition will have the historic “Bring Me Men...” sign painted above the ramp for all graduates who marked their transition to cadet life by walking under those words. The second edition, which will be given to the Academy, will feature the new Core Values sign above the ramp, as it exists now.

Full details about the creation ofthe painting can be found at www.RickBroome.com/ 2005.htm

Academy receives “excellent” ratings USAFA Public Affairs

The Air Force Academy received an overall “Excellent” rating, as well as “Excellents” for all five of its major mission areas after a unit compliance inspection that ended March 9.

“I’ve been doing this for a long time, and I’ve never seen a clean sweep,” said Superintendent Lt. Gen. John W. Rosa. “We’ve had several challenges here at the Academy lately, and while we still have several areas to work

Eight cadets represented the Air Force Academy at the French Air Force Academy last fall. From left: C1Cs Gabe Frusha, Elsa Kanner, Serge Mettes, Melissa Bland, Andrew Hoskinson, Jessica Muterspaugh, Andy Conwell and Heidi Slayton. (Photo by Karen Bland)

on, this is a huge step in the right direction.”

The 10-day inspection encompassed every aspect of Academy operations, ranging from academics to air base defense. Its five major mission areas are the 34th Training Wing, the dean ofthe faculty, the directorate ofathletics, the 10th Air Base Wing and the Academy’s Preparatory School. The headquarters staff also received an “Excellent” rating.

Ten Academyorganizations, including the 10th Medical Group and Academy band, received an “Outstanding” overall rating for the inspection, the highest possible in the rating scale. Six Academy organizations earned “Excellent” ratings. Additionally, the Academy received an “Excellent” in its ability to respond to contingency operations.

Gen. T. Michael Moseley, Air Force Vice Chief of Staff, hailed the Academy’s performance.

“Their success is no surprise to me. I’ve witnessed the dedication of the entire Academy team over the past couple years in their relentless pursuit ofexcellence,” Moseley said.

“These hard-earned inspection results clearly illustrate their commitment to the highest Air Force standards for developing airmen.”

CS-2i represents Academy at inaugural parade Academy Public Affairs

C1C Austin Skelley earned the honor of rendering a sharp salute to President George Bush as he lead 82 ofhis fellow cadets in the 35th Inaugural Parade Jan. 21.

Skelley, this semester’s cadet commander for Cadet Squadron 21, led his squadron along the 1.7 mile route from Capitol Hill to the White House, passing the president, members of the Cabinet, Congress and other dignitaries on the reviewing stand.

“Military units participate in the inaugural parades, as part of a centuries-old tradition to provide military support throughout the inaugural period, to recognize civilian control ofthe military and celebrate democracy,” said Navy Lt. Penny Cockrell, spokeswoman for the Armed Forces Inaugural

Committee joint task force.

The Air Force Academy has been part of every Inaugural Parade since 1957 when President Dwight Eisenhower took the oath office.

Cadet Squadron 21 represented the Air Force and Air Force Academy, by virtue of being the outstanding cadet squadron for 2004, said Maj. David Murphy, ’90, the squadron’s air officer commanding. The Blackjacks were awarded the top squadron honor in 2004 for the second year in a row based on a system which evaluates academic and military performance. S

Cadets receive Air Force Specialty Codes

ByJohn Van Winkle, Academy PublicAffairs

Years of sweat, study and sacrifice CAME DOWN TO ONE MOMENT with an envelope in hand and the future inside.

The 929 members of the Class of 2005 learned Jan. 6 what their post-graduation Air Force jobs would be. Each cadet squadron presented those to their firsties in their own fashion.

The seniors of CS-31 Grim Reapers went to an Old Chicago’s location for dinner and then Maj. Steven Martinez, ’92, CS-31’s air officer commanding, handed each an envelope. Inside the sealed envelope was a certificate with the respective firsties’ name, his or her Air Force Specialty Code, and whichever specialty badge might be associated with the selected career field.

“My heart was beating out of my chest thinking of what was inside that envelope,” said ClC Ishan Avila, CS-31’s squadron commander.

Each firstie would open their envelope and had the option of reading the choice

aloud. Avila wanted a pilot slot, but thought he was going to wind up with a navigator slot instead.

“I have only been navigator-qualified as long as I’ve been at USAFA, and when I left for Christmas leave on Dec. 14, my status was still NQ,” he said. “Since I still had not heard any news about my pilot qualification waiver when I returned, I was afraid that I would receive a navigator slot. But I still had a little bit of hope that maybe my waiver had cleared over Christmas without anyone telling me, and my friends were curious to see what I would get.”

His waiver had indeed gone through, and the Modesto, Calif., native received his top choice ofjobs pilot.

“I almost couldn’t believe it. I pulled it out slowly and thought at first glance thought I was looking at navigator wings,” Avila said. “It was kind ofsurreal. When I realized they were pilot wings, I almost thought Major Martinez had given me the wrong certifi

cate; good thing he put my name on it.”

Avila is one of 533 members of the Class of2005 who earned a pilot slot.

Like Avila, 80 percent ofthe senior cadets received their first choice in AFSCs, while 94 percent of the firsties received one of their top three choices in future Air Force jobs. The job selection process is based on four criteria: needs of the Air Force, cadet qualifications, cadet preferences and board rankings. Cadets provided their top six choices back in November.

“I was very excited, but it was also a little daunting knowing that in a few seconds I was going to find out what my future in the Air Force would be,” said ClC Daniel Bartley. “At the same time there was also a feeling of completion and finality.”

Looking inside the envelope, he saw his future AFSC Intelligence.

“I couldn’t believe it. I got exactly what I wanted, yet what I never thought that I would get,” Bartley said. H

USAFA hosts 47th

The Air Force Academy again hosted the school’s annual Academy Assembly, a political science forum in which college students from around the world participate in discussion and debate about current world events in February.

This theme for the forum was “Spreading Democracy: America’s Obligation?” This theme focused on discussion topics such as the Philosophy of Democratic Governance, U.S. National Interests, U.S. National Defense Policy, and International Implication ofU.S. Policy.

Cadet Director ClC Austin Pruneda has been highly involved with the Assembly throughout hiscadet career. “The Academy Assembly has been an amazing opportunity for leadership and responsibility. No other program that I have participated in has offered as much of either,” hesaid. “My staff deals with many outside organizations and institutions, which gives cadets the opportunity to show that they are ready to go out andmake a positive impact in the Air Force.”

“It holds a heritage to it that few other programs at the Academy maintain,” said C2C Grant Behning, the program’s assistant cadet director. “It is part ofwhat defines the Air Force Academy to many other academic universities and scholars. Thus, I consider it an honor to be part of such a program. When I look back on the Academy many years from now I know that the AcademyAssembly will be the host of many favorable memories.”

A staff of 25 cadets began planning in August. Thisstaff was increased for execution ofthe Assembly to approximately 100 cadets, including cadet delegates, facilitators, drivers and escorts.

The Assembly comprised more than 100 highly qualified undergraduate students from more than 90 universities all across the world - and another 24 selectively chosen delegates from USAFA. Students are divided into roundtables (11-13 delegates each), which are moderated by senior representatives from academe and government.

The forum consisted of keynote speakers and banquet presentations by national and international leaders, who helped provide expert perspectives on the topic for the delegates. This year’s featured speaker was Larry Diamond, a senior research fellow at Floover Institution at Stanford University. Since Sept. 11, 2001, Diamond has served as a consultant to the U.S. Agency for International Development onnew strategies for foreign assistance. “Dr. Diamond was able to present an interesting perspective on a very controversial issue regarding the future of our nation, and thus contributed to provoking interesting conversations and debate throughout the assembly,” said ClC BrittanyWright, AcademyAssembly cadet staffmember.

Prominent academics, business leaders, government officers and non-governmental organization members from across the country helped serve as roundtable leaders for this student-run forum.

While providing a superior leadership experience for cadets in planning and executing this major event, the Academy Assembly also enriches the education of all students who participate in the Assembly as delegates.

ClC Lauren Guibert served as a cadet delegate to the Assembly. “It was an amazing opportunity to be able to interact with students

Academy Assembly

By C1C Christina Quillen

from other schools and to get their perspective on things,” she said. “Since here at the Academy we usually interact only with other cadets and usually see things exclusively from a military perspective, it was refreshing to hear what students from all over the country thought about the various aspects ofdemocracy.

The week-long festivities culminated in a final draft of the resolution agreed upon by all delegates after hours of pondering and debating difficult questions related to this year’s theme.

The AcademyAssembly looks to continue its success into the future.

“As a three-degree on the staffofthe 47th AcademyAssembly, my job was to learn everything I could in order to lead the program in the coming years,” said C3C Emily McKee, executive clerk. “Watching the cadet leadership in action was one of the most rewarding and awesome experiences I have had at USAFA yet. I have not yet gone through a better program and hope to continue the tradition in the next two years.”

The Academy has hosted the event each year since 1959. The AcademyAssembly is associated with Columbia University’s American Assembly, which was founded by President Eisenhower as a forum for informed discussion ofpublic issues by college students.

The department of political science provides a two-member faculty staff to supervise the planning and execution of the Academy Assembly by the cadet staff. The assembly provides an excellent leadership opportunity for all cadets involved. 9

Editor’s note-. Gifts to the Air Force Academy Fund allow the AOG to be a proudsupporter ofthe AcademyAssembly.

RON KNIGHT IS 'Making a Difference’

IN THE ACADEMY’S ADMISSION LIAISON OFFICER PROGRAM

By Christopher A. Stewart

atthew Knight first visited the U.S. Air Force Academy with his family in the summer of 1999- An incredibly bright high school student with his heart set on attending a U.S. service academy, he participated in one of the Acadcmys two summer seminars. The seminars are weeklong sessions that allow exceptional high school juniors to experience the academic environment, physical requirements, team building, and leadership skills necessary to become an Air Force Academy cadet.

To his - and his parents Ron and Sandy’s great pleasure, Matthew was deservingly accepted into the Cadet Wing the fall of 2000 a proud member of the Class of 2004. Matthew was an ambitious cadet who enjoyed the rigors and challenges oftheAcademy experience.

Matthew was a motivated, goal-oriented young man, wise beyond his years. In a letter to his parents in 2001, he wrote, “I have a lot of passion. I know I’m not the smartest built, but I have something others don’t enthusiasm, fresh ideas and desire.”

Ron and Sandy were extremely proud of their son’s impressive list of high school accomplishments. His appointment and acceptance into the United States Air Force Academy validated Matthew’s achievements and rightfully rewarded their son’s most noble intentions to graduate from the Academy and “make a difference” in the world.

In horrific tragedy, Matthew was killed Dec. 28, 2001, in an automobile accident near his Florida home during winter break.

Faced with unbearable grief and an indescribable feeling of loss, Ron and Sandy struggled to accept the death of their only child and they began to rebuild their lives. Over time, they focused on the contagious

vision Matthew had for himselfand others in the world: making the world a better place. The grieving but focused parents formed the Matthew A. Knight Foundation, a permanent reminder oftheir love for Matthew and his everlasting impact on the world.

The Knights have remained connected to the Air Force Academy, despite the bittersweet memories, pain and heartbreak. In February, they returned to Colorado Springs at the request of the office of admissions. Ron was named the Retired/Civilian Admissions Liaison Officer ofthe Nation, one ofeight awards presented to admission liaison officers this year for their exemplary service and dedication to the admission liaison officer program.

“The superb efforts of Mr. Knight have had a tremendous impact on all Air Force commissioning programs,” says Col. William Carpenter, ’73, director of admissions for the Air Force Academy. “His initiative and dedication to the USAFA’s Admission Liaison Officer program are unsurpassed.”

Nearly 2,000 volunteers throughout the country and overseas serve as admission liaison officers for the Academy. They help prospective candidates and appointees work through the Academy’s admissions process. Most ALOs are Air Force officers - either

Reserve, Air National Guard, retired or active duty. Some, like Ron, are civilians with a particularly strong affinity for the Air Force Academy.

Knight began his involvement with the admission liaison program in 2002, less than a year after Matthew died. He works with 42 high schools in the central Florida area. He has participated in more than 20 college fairs, Congressional Academy Nights, Grassroots presentations and similar group presentations. At the 2003 Grassroots program that Ron directed, developed, organized and hosted, more than 100 prospective candidates, cadets and ALOs attended - a remarkably successful event. Ron also attends all of the west coast parents club quarterly meetings and serves as the club’s ALO.

“I think parents tend to feel isolated, and that’s where the parents club comes in,” Ron says. “Because they can talk to other parents whose kids have gone through this but if you’ve got someone that you can talkwith and

express your concerns with, then I think that helps to make the parents more comfortable.”

More than 900 students - and many of their parents have looked to this award winning ALO for counseling, advice and direction regarding their interest in attending the Air Force Academy. Of the candidates he interviewed for the Class of 2008, four were offered appointments an impressive 40 percent appointment rate.

What’s his motivation? “The kids,” he says. “Anytime you can help a kid pursue a dream, that’s pretty special.” He knows firsthand how badly many candidates want to get into the Academy. “There are a lot of very deserving kids out there who may not have the family support or the family knowhow to get them in.”

Ron has been identified by his peers and the Academy as an authority on U.S. Air Force Academy admissions policies and procedures. His service as an Admission Liaison Office is modeled by his peer liaison officers.

As someone who takes incredible pride in providing step-by-step help and direction to candidates, he maintains regular contact with the prospective candidates and appointees that he meets, e-mailing and calling to make sure they’re aware ofimportant deadlines and on track to submitting a best-possible application package. Before preparing prospective candidates’ evaluations, he always has at least 10 contacts with them; five are one-on-one.

In addition to providing admissions-related counseling, Ron also started a program to advise younger students who have an interest in the Academy. He nurtures their interest and assists those who have a long-term interest in graduating from the Academy. Ron encourages prospective candidates to look into and enroll - ifthey’re interested - in the Academy’s Summer Seminar.

The Summer Seminar made a life-lasting impression on Matthew, and his father believes that if other high school students have an opportunity to attend the seminar, they too will understand the essence of the Academy experience. The seminar is one of the most significant minority recruitment tools for the Air Force Academy, and between 30-40 percent of the seminar’s participants attend the Academy.

Because of the profound impression the Summer Seminar had on Matthew, Ron and

Sandy have committed financial resources to ensure that other students, like Matthew, have the opportunity to attend. Their support helps fund scholarships, attendees’ registration and travel expenses, the purchase ofnotebooks and other supplies and a commemorative coin presented to all seminar participants.

Their support doesn’t stop there. After students receive their acceptance letters from the Academy, Ron works with them so they’re as prepared as possible for the rigors of Basic Cadet Training. He helps them get their combat boots and other uniform items. Throughout their USAFA career, he makes a point ofkeeping in touch with them.

The congressional committees who work with service academyapplicants also benefit from Ron’s commitment to the admissions process. “Ron has willingly committed to assisting his local congressional office by

ENDURANCE

Iiy Matt Knight, 1982-2001

Never give up,

No matter who tells you it's okay You must keep pressing on Never be content to stay.

Push! Push! And dig down deep within

Try your hardest, and even if you fall You know that you've done more than most; You've given it your all.

All of the effort, which sometimes seem for nothing

Those hard days you've been struggling to understand

Don't do it for anyone at all but yourself

Finish the fight, do your best, be absolutely all that you can

When you receive discouragement, Or trials to your faith,

The future seem uncertain,

And all life seems a waste

Just try to keep on believing

Keep on pressing on

For in the end,

You're only accountable to one;

Yourself.

offering a ‘training session’ for the newly elected congresswoman’s selection panel,” says Lt. Col. Sandy Keeter, ’82, the liaison officer director in central Florida.

Knight is an active member of Matthews Boy Scout Troop, local Rotary Club and he speaks regularly to Congressional Academy Days, nomination committees and school board functions. In all his interactions with the public, Ron always has the Academy in mind.

“A highly visible, very respected member of his community, he uses his numerous civic contacts to help spread the word on USAFA and AFROTC opportunities,” Carpenter says.

Despite the unimaginable heartbreak of losing their cadet son, Ron and Sandy remain remarkably committed to the U.S. Air Force Academy. By donating countless hours to the Admission Liaison Officer program and generously contributing to the philanthropic efforts of the Academy and Association of Graduates, the two hold strong to their wish of ensuring that Matthew’s legacy lives long in the spirit of the United States Air Force Academy. H

Air Force Academy Liaison Officer 2004

National Award Winners:

Liaison Officer Director of the Nation: Lt. Col. John W. Ayres Jr., Arizona

Deputy Liaison Officer Director of the Nation: Lt. Col. Michael A. Germain, Minnesota

Primary Duty Admissions Liaison Officer of the Nation: Lt. Col. David E. Scholl, ’81, Alabama/Northwest Florida

Additional Duty Admissions Liaison Officer of the Nation: Maj. Joe D. Houk, ’93; North Texas

Retired/Civilian Admissions Liaison Officer of the Nation: Ronald A. Knight, Central Florida

Minority Admissions Counselor of the Nation: Capt. Pedro L. Rivera Jr., Southeast Texas

Lifetime Achievement Award for 33 years ofALO service: Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Dennis W. Schulstad, Minnesota

Lifetime Achievement Award for 30 years ofALO service: Lt. Col. Robert W. Canfield, Massachusetts

The Silver Falcon Association has merged with the Association of Graduates as an affiliate of the AOG. Bob Peary, CEO ofthe SFA, met with AOG President and CEO Jim Shaw to suggest the possible merger. SFA was formed in 1976 by a group ofretired officers, mostly Air Force reservists, who wanted to continue their association with the Air Force Academy and each other. They were the early Admissions Liaison Officers for the academy when there were no alumni to contact and prepare prospective candidates for the academy admissions requirements. The ALO program was established in 1957 and continues to be an important part of the admission process to advise and evaluate quality candidates with the potential to succeed in the Air Force. Many academy graduates are now assigned to the national program in their own districts.

The initial group who became Silver Falcons is no longer as active and able to support the SFA and attend the annual conferences at the Academy. Bob Peary was prompted to search for a solution that would permit the Silver Falcons to remain involved with the Academy. Jim Shaw agreed that these early “foster

alumni” deserved to be incorporated into the AOG as associate members who pay annual dues or life memberships. He contacted the Board of Directors which concurred with the plan. The Silver Falcon members approved the idea as the best possible solution for their declining organization. On March 17, Peary presented Shaw and the AOG with SFA funds according to the SFA constitution approved by the Academy superintendent in 1978.

THIS YEAR 1,325 CADETS FROM THE CLASS OF 2008 ENTERED

THE ACADEMY, and the clock began to tick. In four years, these cadets will graduate and become the next generation to lead the worlds most powerful air and space force. Your contribution to the Air Force Academy Fund is the best way to directly impact the entire Cadet Wing and enhance the Academy experience.

Donations to the Air Force Academy Fund support vital programs in character development, academics, athletics and heritage that would not exist without private funding. Annual gifts of $1,000 or more to the Air Force Academy Fund are recognized at the Sabre Society level. Please make a contribution to the Air Force Academy Fund today. Every minute counts.

The Air Force Academy Fund mm

For more information about the Air Force Academy Fund, please contact Greg Knedler at

The Association of Graduates communication department was recognized in seven categories for its continued excellence in communications by District VI of the Council for Advancement and Support of Education.

CASE is the professional organization for advancement professionals at all levels who work in alumni relations, communications, development and alumni services..

At the district’s annual awards banquet held recently in Kansas City, the communications department received seven awards for their work in advertising, photography, multimedia, and most notably, having the best communications materials among the district’s eight-state region for institutions with 3,000-5,000 students. Their nomination packages were selected from more than 1,100 entries. District VI has 193 institutional members and 1,430 professional members.

“What’s so impressive is that despite the relatively small size of our communication department when matched up against universities ofsimilar size, our folks continue to be recognized by the industry for creating phenomenal products for our membership,” said Jim Shaw, ’67, AOG president and CEO.

The department includes five full-time and one parttime employee and one volunteer intern. Dick Rauschkolb, ’70, leads the team as vice president of communication. “It’s truly amazing how over the past few years, a small handful of

conference

Designer Sarah Wright and Assistant Director of Marketing Chris Stewart collaborate on virtually every communication department project.

The small workhorse department garnered seven awards at this year’s CASE VI conference. (Photos by Ken Wright)

people have made such a tremendous difference in the services and products the AOG provides its members,” said the former deputy military assistant to Chairman ofthe Joint Chiefs ofStaffAdmiral William J. Crowe. “Not only has there been a great improvement of the overall quality of our products, such as Checkpoints magazine and our Web site, www.usafa.org, but our sheer number of products has rocketed just since 2003,” he added.

Bob McAllister, the director of marketing, has seen a remarkable evolution of the department since coming on board in 2000.

“When I was hired I was astonished by how much Dick and Tom Kroboth were doing by themselves. Not only were they singlehandedly publishing Checkpoints but they also handled virtually all other communications, as well,” said the Georgetown alumnus and former Combat Camera flight commander.

Kroboth’s twenty plus years ofexperience with the AOG were a great help as the trio sought ways to improve the look and content of Checkpoints. With an eye for attention to detail, he continues to edit and design two of the magazine’s most popular sections, “Gone But Not Forgotten,” and “Class News.”

In 2001 designer Sarah Wright and photographer Ken Wright joined the team in an effort to bolster visual communication. Sarah’s artistic hand touches nearly every product that leaves Doolittle Hall. The one-time Air Force Band ofthe Rockies vocalist and magna cum laude graduate of Virginia Commonwealth

BEHIND THE SCENES

University’s School of the Arts has been an unshakable behindthe-scenes workhorse capable ofproducing award-winning design on a moment’s notice.

Ken came to the Academy with a heftyportfolio ofmilitary coverage. The former Department of Defense Military Photographer of the Year worked as a photojournalist in the active Air Force for 10 years, before transferring to the Reserve in 1995. As a civilian, he worked as a photo editor for the Daily Press in Newport News, Va., as well as a freelance photographer in Richmond before joining the AOG staff.

Assistant Director ofMarketing Chris Stewart became the most recent addition to the staffin 2003. Stewart is a 2002 summa cum laude graduate ofthe Missouri School ofJournalism, with a major in journalism and an emphasis in strategic communication. Bringing with him the kind of work ethic that bosses dream of having on a team, his work leaves a polished impression on virtually all of the department’s projects.

“Although our staff has grown substantially over the past five years, the number of new products and services we have added to membership benefits, all while continually raising our standards of excellence, is astounding,” says Rauschkolb. “We are especially grateful to have Heather Beer volunteer her time as our marketing communications intern Each time we go to events and discuss goals with other universities, they are simply shocked when they find out how much we accomplish with this small, but talented staff. I just tell them, ‘We are blessed with a solid group of highly professional and dedicated people.’” H

2004 CASE Awards

Sweepstakes Award

Gold Award for Excellence in Advertising

Silver Award for Excellence in Advertising

Bronze Award for Excellence in Advertising

Gold Award for Excellence in Photography

Silver Award for Excellence in Photography

Silver Award for Excellence in Multimedia

2003 CASE Awards

Sweepstakes Award Runner-Up

Gold Award for Excellence in Graphic Design

Bronze Award for Excellence in Communications

2002 CASE Award

Most Improved Alumni Magazine

(From the left) Director of Marketing Bob McAllister and Vice Presi- ongoing projects the communication team is currently working on dent of Communication Dick Rauschkolb, ’70, discuss a few of the for the AOG.

Cell life was tough. Of course, there was a lot of diarrhea from the diet. The diet was just made for that. In the wintertime you didn’t have any real food in your stomach. You didn’t have any fat for insulation, and you’d just shake and shake. The big thing was to build up your blanket bedroll. There were works of art as to how to do this for maximum warmth. I don’t know how you could get so hot and so cold from one place. It was amazing.

My decision to leave the military wasn’t an easy one. I got requalified and was flying again and had a couple of offers from the airlines, and the Air Force offered to let me get my Ph.D. at Georgetown. It finally hit me one day coming down in a flight of four over the mountains to Holloman. Something was bothering me, but I couldn’t figure out what. Then it hit me I was bored. I’d done the flying bit with some of the best and been one of the best. I needed something else to challenge me and keep me going. 9

Editor’s note: After leaving active duty, Ron Bliss completed law school and became a partner with Fulbright &Jaworski LLP in Houston, Texas. On Feb. 8, hepassed away afierfighting a long and courageous battle with cancer. He will be missed.

Above: Then-lLt. Ron Bliss (left) in Vietnam following a combat sortie. (U.S. Air Force photo)

Right: Ron Bliss side-byside with an F-105 Thunderchief while visiting the Academy in October 2004.

(Courtesy photo)

’re going to do.

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Optional Excursions available: Gems ofLake Geneva; Swiss Mountain Hut Dinner; Zermatt; Strasbourg and Riquewihr; Rhine Falls in Schaffhausen and Stein-amRhein, and more!

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For additional information and a color brochure contact:

The Secret Life of WaldoF. Dumbsquat

by Don Hall, ’76

CIAC Waldo F. Dumbsquat performed his duties as Loadmaster at the evening meal flawlessly. His crew tonight included “Regs” Buch, the Cold Pilot, and Warren Heels serving as the Hot Pilot. Like a well oiled machine, the doolies kept the food and beverages supplied to the ravenous upperclassmen their reward would be no punishment.

“Milk with ice for the Table Commandant please, sir!”

“Dumbsquat!” hailed the Table Commandant over the Mitchell Hall din.

“Yes, sir!”

“Make an appropriate comment on the form about the mystery meat served tonight.”

“Yes, sir!”

Waldo retrieved a pen from his sock and wrote a humorous limerick on the 0-96.

“Dumbsquat, your light’s on.”

“Cadet Culinary, may I ask a question?”

“Go ahead.”

“Sir, may the fourthclassmen be excused from the table?”

“Get up!”

The freshmen jumped up, grabbed wheel caps from under their chairs, and stood at attention.

“Post!”

“Excuse me sir, excuse me gentlemen. Good evening, sir. Go Falcons!” chorused the doolies followed by facing

movements away from the table. Waldo and his roommates, eyes fixed on the floor, trudged with their classmates toward the West Doors.

“Pep Rally!”

The shout came from a sadistic thirdclassmen headed for Command Post duty. The orderly stream of doolies leaving the evening meal immediately transformed into a chaotic flood of freshmen racing across the terrazzo. All illusions of discipline dissipated as the fourthclassmen fell out and ran to the grassy knoll. Once there, Waldo and his buddies milled around while members of the Spirit Committee vainly tried to lead cheers.

“I can’t believe we’re having another rally on the hill. This is the third one this week and it’s only baseball season!” whined Warren.

“Well, at least we get to be at rest for a few minutes,” noted Regs. Waldo frowned. “But my shoes get wiped out every time.”

“Only two of our classmates ran into the horizontal stabilizer of the F-105 this time so I consider it a successful spirit event,” assessed Regs.

The sun slowly descended over the Rocky Mountains as a shadowy purple hue covered the foothills. Call to Quarters was only minutes away.

“You know we can’t leave until the Air Force Song is sung at least three times,” Warren advised. “The Dean will be upset if we aren’t in our rooms soon.”

Certainly a stranger to the Dean’s List, Waldo knew his classmates needed their study time. And he personally had a problem set due. Unnoticed, Waldo ducked into his personal phone booth and whispered the magic words “Roll Tide.” Instantly, if not sooner, the doolie morphed into Colonel Waldo F. Dumbsquat - a man who never had a wardrobe malfunction. The colonel strode to the center of the rally and with a commanding voice, led the freshmen in several songs and chants. He closed the rally with the USAFA pre-game cheer. The exercise of mandatory spirit finished, the mob gradually dispersed along the marble strips. Unobserved, the officer quickly left the field.

The sound ofTaps playing over the loudspeaker system brought Waldo back to consciousness. In the dark, his normal puny form lay sprawled under the tail section ofthe Thunderchief.

Waldo sighed. H

Cadets prepare for PINNACLE

By C2C Felisa Hervey Cadet Wing Public Affairs

PANTING AND SWEATY,

camo-dad cadets formed up on a road, ready for a five-kilometer run, despite just having completed the rigorous “linechallenge,” a test of strength and will that includes ranger push-ups and fireman-carries up the ascending levels of the athletic fields.

But this was only practice for the big event Pinnacle the second, and culmination event of each class’s successful military training year. The fall training event was Commandant’s Challenge, which included a field training exercise, academics, drill and ceremony, and the “Centrifuge,” a culminating series of exercises that focused on teamwork and cohesiveness.

In early February, at least two cadet squadrons launched into uncharted territory by taking part in a test run of the newly developed physical portion of the training event. The experiments helped staff gauge reasonable times and set realistic but challenging expectations for the Cadet Wing.

Pinnacle is meant to test and assess cadet leadership and military training, combining Academy traditions with Air Force heritage.

The nine-day event will take place over two weekends in April. Phase I will emphasize practical operational readiness, followed by tests and inspections.

Phase II will focus on the physical challenge, and culminates with old and new traditions such as the “Run to the Rock,” a night march, Remembrance Taps Vigil, and the fourth-class Prop and Wings promotion ceremony.

“Preparation always pays,” said ClC Tim Coles, the Cadet-in-Charge ofPinnacle. “We want to respect the Cadet Wing by presenting them with something that has been carefully planned and tested.”

In a recent visit to the Academy, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Richard B. Myers emphasized the substantial transitions the Air Force is undergoing and the likelihood that rapid and dramatic change will continue to be a part ofmilitary life.

“The Academy reflects this climate of change also, and transitions in recent years have required a radical rethinking of training traditions,” Coles said. “Pinnacle follows in this pattern, while breaking out of the mold with new ideas and methods It promises to establish a solid model and standard for future training events.” B

C3C Alicia Stirewalt makes quick work of the cross-bars during the fall training event, Commandant’s Challenge. The upcoming springtraining event, Pinnacle, will further test cadets' strength and will. (Photo by Ken Wright)

A BriefHistory ofthe HONOR SYSTEM

- PART II OF III

BY FREDERICK V. MALMSTROM, ’64

VISITING SCHOLAR FOR HONOR

PHOTOS BY KEN WRIGHT

The Air Force Academy had barely emerged from its first decade when it was stung by a most unpleasant 1965 honor scandal. From 1955 through the end of 1965, at least 450 cadets, including 109 from the scandal, had departed the Academy on honor violations. Perhaps another 600 cadets had been found not guilty. Until 1965 there were a few substantive changes in the Honor System, including the introduction of discretion, an administrative method of granting a second chance to first-time honor code violators. However, the remedies applied to the Honor System that arose from the scandal which were introduced and adopted from the 1965 Thomas D. White Report were as it will be seen - markedlysuperficial and insufficient.

THE 1967 CHEATING INCIDENT

A scant two years later, the Academy was hit by another cheating incident. More than 60 cadets (mosdy secondclassmen) were implicated. This time all investigations and hearings were processed by the honor representatives, not the Office of Special Investigations. During the final week of February 1967, the Honor Committee processed 49 honor cases, and 46 cadets eventually resigned. Unlike the 1965 scandal, the second incident involved only cadets passing answers from previous exams to other less academically inclined cadets.

There was a bizarre twist to this investigation. In order for the commanders to get a handle on the inner workings of “the cadet mind,” the Mental Hygiene Clinic also interviewed thosecadetsfoundguilty.TheAcademy

headshrinkers reported back with a conclusion that should have been obvious. There was no grand unifying theory; cadets commit honor violations for all sorts of reasons.

Nevertheless, the 1967 incident produced a subsequent and inevitable final internal report. The Embrey Report, as before, tried to make sense ofthe 1967 cheating incident and again made the usual recommendations:

(1) Cadet ownership of the Honor System should be stressed

(2) Cease using the code as a means to enforce regulations

(3) Increase honor instruction and training

(4) Emphasize honesty over loyalty

(5) Advise prospective USAFA cadet candidates more strongly about the Honor System.

Amazingly, all three spin-offsubcommittee

a i 1

i—-1—i---a—i—i—i—

MOT LIE. STEAL. OR CHEAT. NOR AMONG US ANYONE WHO DOES."

reports (academic, athletic and cadet) summarily declared the Class of 1968 “had it too easy” and were themselves responsible for corrupting their own Honor System (Ball, 1997). Alas, other than the opinions of disgruntled upperclassmen, I never found objective data to back up their sour conclusions.

At the same time, Lt. Colonel Stanley Beck, executive for honor and ethics (later to become the 1975-78 commandant ofcadets), began to stress the need for the Honor System to follow strict legal procedures during the investigative phase of suspected honor violations. Cadets were now issued the Cadet Honor Code Pamphlet. Moreover, Beck held the conviction that rehabilitation was still a worthy goal. More discretion opportunities were to be offered to violators.

THE 1972 CHEATING INCIDENT

As if on cue, the Academy was hit with yet another cheating incident. This time, 39 cadets were found guilty ofpassing answers from exams, and they predictably resigned. This 1972 cheating incident is remarkable if only for its sketchiness. (I was witness to the fact that the faculty was never briefed on this incident.) The cadets who were found guilty most assuredly admitted to vaguely worded charges, but the specifics of their violations are uncharacteristically missing from official documents.

All 39 cadets were processed through honor hearings January 20-21, 1972, with a speed guaranteed to dumbfound even lovers ofTexas-style justice. These cases were heard and deliberated with intervals ranging from 15 minutes to one hour. Even allowing for

latrine breaks, the average time spent per honor case was 27.03 minutes. Considering that most routine honor hearings normally took an average of two to four hours to hear and deliberate (Berry, 2004), the honor committee processes again fell under legal scrutiny. Perhaps this scrutiny was well-deserved.

At any rate, Assistant Secretary of the Air Force RichardJ. Borda issued the 1973 Borda Memorandum which outright stated that the Honor System “more than meets applicable due process requirements” (Ball, 1997).

Someone disagreed. In 1973, an Air Force officer and 1969 USAFA graduate Capt. Michael T. Rose wrote and published his New York University law school project entitled A PrayerforRelief. Rose put forth in the confident, legal style of a prosecutor (but by no means a scientific proof) a case that

the 1972 accused cadets were denied due process of law. In 1972, cadets accused of honor violations had, of course, never been guaranteed due process, but Rose’s book was invaluable because it brought public attention to the argument that constitutional rights and the Honor System were inseparable (Ball, 1997).

To say that Roses book was not well received byhis superiors is an understatement. Rose left active duty soon after his book was published (Flood, 1974). However, the stage gradually was being set for legal challenges to the Honor System, and Michael Roses name would reappear often in future honor litigations (Shaw, 2004; Scott, 2004).

FIRST COURT SUIT FILED

1974 dawned as another milestone year. Late in 1973, a cadet who was found guilty of an honor violation had for the first time filed suit against the USAFA superintendent in United States District Court. Cadet D claimed that his constitutional rights had been violated after he had been involuntarily separated from the Academy on matters of both conduct and honor. The Denver U.S. District Court judge refused to reinstate this cadet during his litigation, and Cadet D was ultimately unsuccessful in his lawsuit. However, his issue of constitutional rights was far from settled. The words of the May 11, 1974, Rocky Mountain News were nothing short ofprophetic when it stated, that the case “... sets the stage for upcoming hearings into the merits of a comprehensive legal attack on the constitutionality of the service academy’s honor and disciplinary system.”

THE FEDERAL COURTS GET INVOLVED

Why did the Honor System evolve into a legalistic one? The simple answer is that expelled cadets and midshipmen began taking their cases to court. In 1967, Merchant Marine Cadet Wasson, a junior, had appealed his expulsion from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy for excessive demerits on the grounds he was denied due process of law, and his federal district court judge subsequently agreed that Wasson had been denied his Fifth Amendment constitutional guarantees. Because a constitutional issue had been decided and upheld, Wasson v. Trowbridge

(1967) was well on its way to becoming a landmark decision.

The court reasoned that as a cadet, Wasson did, in fact, have private interests that deserved protection. Five years after the Wasson case, USMA Cadet Joachim Hagopian (Hagopian v. Knowlton, 1972) brought a similar case and also received a favorable ruling. To be denied due process was to be denied the possible loss of an Army career, and three years after the Hagopian decision, two more consolidated cases, Andrews v. Knowlton and White v. Knowlton (1975) extended the due process rulings to honor cases. In essence, the Second Federal Circuit Court upheld that attendance at a publiclyfunded service academy was no longer a privilege but a constitutional right.

Thereafter, all cadets and midshipmen accused of honor violations would have to be afforded their constitutional procedural rights. These constitutional rights covered

(1) The opportunity to challenge and cross-examine witnesses

(2) Advance notice ofwitnesses

(3) The right to remain silent

(4) The right to an attorney (Roberts v. Knowlton, 1974) (Beasley, 1987).

1984 - THE WATERSHED YEAR

Meanwhile, West Point was having its own honor problems in the form of a 1976 electrical engineering take-home exam cheating incident. At least 117 - and perhaps over 200 - cadets were facing expulsion. USMA Superintendent Sidney Berry had strong, chilling evidence his honor problems were far deeper than mere cribbing (Atkinson, 1989; Scott, 2004). Rather than exercise his massive disenrollment option, General Berry offered the guilty cadets a new type of sanction - a one-year suspension. (Suspension was not unlike the 19th century Ivy League tradition of “rustication” whereby errant students were given an involuntary year off to reflect on their misdeeds and mend their ways.) Prior to 1980, the two traditional corrective actions a USAFA superintendent might apply to honor code violators were either disenrollment or discretion.

New Year’s Day 1984 did not dawn auspiciously at USAFA. It was rumored that a rather large group of firstclassmen had been involved in passing answers from a 400level physics course exam. Following their

hunches, the department set up a sting operation of slightly altered exams. As a result, 31 cadets were investigated as potential cheaters, and 19 of them were found guilty of honor violations. As these 19 cadets began cooperating with investigators to develop more leads, it became even more obvious that the Honor System was in danger oftotal collapse.

The uncovering of a large cheating incident historically indicates corruption at a far greater depth than mere cheating. Such was the case in USMA’s 1951 cribbing incident where obvious honor cases had been mysteriously disappearing (Craigie, 2000). The 1965 USAFA scandal was also far deeper than mere academic theft and cheating. The newspapers had thoughtlessly failed to mention the ring was also involved in a successful organized scheme to intercept and destroy Form 10 disciplinary reports. One accused cadet had also successfully bribed (price $500) an honor representative to deliver a vote of not guilty.

Likewise, Scott’s lengthy investigations revealed that instances of not only cheating but also lying, toleration, and to a much lesser extent, stealing within the wing had reached into the triple if not quadruple digit figures. The good news was that the 1984 incident did not involve a large-scale organized ring. The bad news was that there was no large-scale organized ring to blame.

Faced with a possible integrity meltdown similar to the one dished up to the 1976 USMA superintendent, General Scott suspended the USAFA Honor System in June 1984 and offered amnesty for all self-admitted honor code violators. The 19 original violators were offered and accepted a one-year suspension, and the Honor System was temporarily replaced by the Uniform Code of Military Justice sanctions. For a while, disciplinary boards, UCMJ Article 15 non-judicial punishments and a few court-martials replaced the traditional honor sanctions (Scott, 2004).

This time the USAFA administration itself - not an outside committee invested countless hours of thought and legwork into remaking a viable Honor System. To the great relief of all, upon a thumping majority vote of the Cadet Wing, the Honor System was reborn. In January 1985, the entire wing was administered in a public ceremony the newly amended Honor Code Oath (Ball, 1997).

THE HONOR CODE IS AMENDED

And so in early 1985, the Honor Code was amended to read “We will not lie, steal or cheat, nor tolerate among us anyone who does. Furthermore, I resolve to do my duty and live honorably, so help me God.”

Many outsiders (and not a few old grads) are understandably puzzled at the attempts to keep the honor code within the narrow borders ofthose few items ofhonesty - lying, stealing, cheating and tolerating. The addition ofthe “furthermore” clause within the Honor Code oath was an effort to include the whole system ofethical behavior within the oath and yet separate it from the severer sanctions (i.e. disenrollment or suspension) ofviolating the honesty provisions ofthe code itself.

In other words, the 1984 rewording of the Honor Code makes a clear distinction between (1) honesty and (2) all other honorable behaviors. The lay public often confuses the two areas (The Denver Post, 2001). For example, they ask why aren’t issues of sexual assault, drug and alcohol abuse, or even destruction of government property the sorts of issues heard by honor boards? Or, to turn the question around, why wouldn’t adultery be considered theft (of spousal affection)? Could steroid abuse be cheating (unfair advantage in athletics)? Could failure to report a classmate for overstaying an expired parking meter be tolerating theft (ofcity revenue)?

The unsatisfying answer is that, while the preceding four extreme examples are most arguably dishonorable behaviors, they are traditionally handled by formal military justice procedures. But, on matters of honesty, the Honor System sets a higher bar than that called for by the Uniform Code of Military Justice. So to this day the Honor System (or more precisely the honesty system) remains a special category ofhonorable behavior.

THE QUASI-JUDICIAL MODEL IS BORN

Nevertheless, in light of the newly courtmandated interpretations, all service academy Honor Systems procedures would also begin to mirror the operational, UCMJ style ofjustice.

Initially, at USAFA, an honor investigative panel (later replaced by the term “investigative team”) would determine, not unlike a grand jury, whether a possible violation merited a

formal hearing. This IT would also utilize [note the increasinglylegal language] the standards of“preponderance ofevidence.”

Proceeding further, it was first proposed in 1985 that the Honor System establish a two-phase jurisdictional process, not unlike the guilt and punishment phases of a criminal trial. A cadet panel would determine the accused’s guilt or innocence. Then a sanctions board, a board ofthree commissioned officers and two cadets, would determine the punishment to be administered (Berry, 2004).

The formal wing honor board would now consist of eight members and would, for the first time, include a voting commissioned officer. Not unlike court-martial proceedings, a vote of six out of eight on the panel was now sufficient to find a cadet in violation of the code. Also, at this time the terminology of “guilty” and “not guilty” was dropped in favor of the words “in violation” and “not in violation.” However, for a cadet to be found “in violation,” guilt had to be established by yet another venerable legal standard: “beyond a reasonable doubt” (Ball, 1997).

In the words of a former West Point legal scholar, John Beasley (2004), all service academy Honor Systems had transformed into “a

due-process hybrid.” The courts had decreed it so. Like it or not, this would forever be the law. It would now be up to the service academies themselves to decide how to uphold the courts’ decisions and yet maintain a viable honor system. S

Selected References

“Academy code tarnished,” (February 1, 2001). The Denver Post.

Atkinson, Richard (1989). The Long Gray Line. The AmericanJourney ofWest Point’s Class of1966. New York: Henry Holt and Company.

Ball, Peggy (1997). “The evolution of the honor code system at the United States Air Force Academy: an historical case study analysis.” Austin, TX: University ofTexas. Ph.D. Thesis.

Beasley, John Howard (Fall, 1987).

“The USMA honor system - a due process hybrid.” Military Law Review, v. 118, pp. 187-215.

Beasley, John Howard (2004).

[Former USMA defense counsel] Personal communication.

Berry, Thomas (2004). [Deputy Director Center for Character Development]

Personal communication.

Craigie, John A. (2000). [Honor Researcher, USMA Class of 1951] Personal communication.

Flood, Robert J. (July, 1974). “’Busted’ out of the United States Air Force.” True, 55(446), pp. 34-40.

“Judge refuses to order cadet reinstated” (May 11, 1974). The Rocky Mountain News.

Rose, Michael T. (1973). A prayerfor relief. The constitutional infirmities ofthe military academies’ conduct, honor and ethics systems. New York: New York University School of Law.

Scott, Winfied (2004). [Former USAFA Superintendent] Personal communication.

Shaw, James (2004). [President and CEO, USAFA Association of Graduates] Personal Communication.

Andrews v. Knowlton and White v. Knowlton, 509 F.2d 898 (2d Cir. 1975).

Hagopian v. Knowlton, 470 F.2d 201 (2d Cir. 1972).

Roberts v. Knowlton, Nil F. Supp. 1381 (SDNY1974).

Wasson v. Trowbridge, 382 F.2d 807 (2d Cir. 1967).

FIRST-CLASS

By Connie Schultz, The Cleveland Plain Dealer

C4C TIM GAYDOSH had just folded his lanky 6-foot-4 frame into an aisle seat at the back of the plane when he locked eyes with the civilian headed his way.

Tim, a first-year student at the Air Force Academy, was on his way home to Cleveland for spring break. As always, he was in uniform, and hed been on the receiving end ofenough strangers lately to stiffen just a bit as the man plowed through the busy aisle.

Would this guy be one of those nice folks who shook his hand and thanked him for his service to our country? Or was this going to be like that day in Wal-Mart, when another customer took one look at Tim’s uniform and shook his head in disgust?

The middle-aged man headed his way wore blue jeans, a sweat shirt and a few extra pounds on his tall frame. He came to a stop at Tim’s outstretched knee and extended his hand.

“I really appreciate what you’re doing for our country,” he said.

Then he handed Tim his ticket.

“I want you to sit in first class,” he said. “I want you to take my seat.”

The soft-spoken Tim politelyprotested. “You paid for it, sir,” he said. “I can’t sit in your seat.”

The man would not be deterred.

“I said I want you to have it, and I mean it. You go up there now, and take my seat.”

After a little more wrangling, Tim finally agreed. He heard other passengers thanking the man and praising his generosity as he walked up the aisle.

“It gave me such a good feeling,” Tim said later. “And it’s quite an experience up there in first class. They come up to you every five minutes asking ifyou need anything.”

He sighed ever so slightly. “I had to say no to the wine, being only 18.”

I first learned about Tim’s flight upgrade from his father, Joe, an electrician at the Ford plant in Avon Lake.

“I just want to thank all the people who’ve been so nice to my son since he put on a uniform,” he said in a phone message. “You hear so much evil about people, but there are so many nice people out there, and many of them are coming up to my son.”

Joe is especially grateful to that man named David who gave up his first-class seat for Tim. “I wish I could tell him, sir, I appreciate that you saw what you saw and did what you did for my son.’

Tim insists that “the real soldiers” - the ones coming home from active duty in Iraq - are the ones most deserving ofAmericans’ kindness.

“They shouldn’t have to come home to a Vietnam,” he said, referring to the ridicule and hostility many soldiers of that era experienced upon their return to American soil.

Long after that war ended, Vietnam veterans finally found the courage to speak out about the torture they endured, not in Asia,

C4C Tim Gaydosh learns to march during phase one of Basic Cadet Training last July. (Photo by Ken Wright)

but at the hands of an angry and condemning public in their own hometowns. Their honesty about that unspeakable pain forced us to face our own ugly past, and they are the reason that, this time, most of us know the difference between the men who plan the war and the soldiers who fight it.

Recent polls show that most Americans now oppose the war in Iraq. Our support, though, for the men and women risking their lives in that guerrilla warfare remains strong.

Earlier this month, I was standing in a long line at Cleveland’s airport. There must have been a hundred of us slowly winding our way through the maze of straps and posts just outside the waiting area where all arriving passengers eventually exit. Most of us couldn’t help but notice the jolly band waiting to welcome a soldier named Ryan.

“Welcome home, Ryan!” read one sign.

“You’re our hero, Ryan!” read another.

Several were holding small American flags, and all of them eagerly peered with stretched necks waiting for their soldier.

Finally, a young man wearing camouflage and boots and a grin wider than the bill ofhis cap bounded through the entryway.

Without a word, nearly a hundred strangers put down their bags and purses and started to clap.

Welcome home, fli

© 2005 The Plain Dealer. All rights reserved. Reprinted with permission

Film Crew Discovers the Heart and

BY ALAN HAYDEN

Alan Hayden is the writer for Wings of Honor, a feature-length documentary being produced by CINE Design Films Inc. of Denver, Colo., to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the U.S. Air Force Academy. Hayden recently spent 100th Night with Cadet Squadron 10.

The cadet squadron is assembled in the Cadet Squadron 10 SAR in Vandenberg Hall on a chillyJanuary night. It’s been about two months since the firsties filled out their AFSC requests for branch assignments, listing their top six choices. Tonight, C2C Ron Green is announcing the answers back from the selection committee, “Cadet Bryan Kelly !” Kellys name flashes in PowerPoint on a screen. The former cadet squadron commander strides to the front ofthe room, snaps to attention. Green continues, “Nine-two Tango Zero Pilot” The rest of the squadron erupts in applause and cheers. One after another, the 26 seniors of CS-10 receive their branch assignments, the most tangiblesign yet that their time here at the Academy is coming to an end. In another two months

Photo ©2004 Cine Design Films/Paul Trantow

they’ll be only 100 days out from graduation, attending the 100th Night dinner and will be receiving their specific duty location assignments.

I’ve brought film Director Jon Husband of CINE Design Films Inc., Executive Producer Steve Hickey and Cinematographer Ed Done with me to witness this special night. I was honored when Jon and Steve asked me to help research and write a feature-length documentary film about the United States Air Force Academy to be called Wings ofHonor. Now it’s time to bring them deeper into the world I’ve been discovering and to meet more of the amazing people I’ve come to know.

Jon and Steve had already developed an association with the Association of Graduates and had joindy determined a theme for the film. The documentary was proposed to help commemorate the 50th anniversary of the Academy - but would be less about its history and more about its ongoing mission of developing leaders of character. The Academy had been in the spotlight due to the sexual assault controversies, but we discovered that many members of the general public know little about the Academy, who attends, its mission, how it functions, and the contributions ofits graduates to the U.S. military and society in general.

professional growth and development of individual cadets. We’ll take the viewers inside a cadet squadron and spend a year alongside several cadets representing all four classes. We’ll be there during the in-processing of the newly arrived basics, follow them and their cadet leaders through the rigors of military training, academic activities, athletic competition, and leadership and character building challenges. Their commanding officers will also play an integral role as mentors and provide an inside perspective.

Bob McAllister, the AOG director ofmarketing, arranged for us to have access to CS-10 “Tiger Ten.” We had already filmed portions of the 2004 basic training in Jacks Valley, the Big Bad Basic, Field Day and Graduation. Now we would get to meet, interview, and observe daily life with some of the 123 cadets in the squadron.

ClC Bryan Kelly was the cadet commander ofTiger Ten when I first met him. (He is now in the cadet group command structure.) Behind his soft-spoken manner lies an X-Games spirit. He’s a soaring (glider) instructor, having missed out on making it on the skydiving team due to a skateboarding injury. In his spare time, about an hour a day, he practices with his rock band and performs in area clubs on weekends. Making pilot training was his main goal he wants to fly fighters. His second choice was special operations.

Kelly is supervised by the squadron’s Air Officer Commanding, Maj. Tyler Prevett, a 1993 Academy graduate and pilot. Prevett is assisted by Master Sgt. Darin “Jet” Jetton, an experienced spitshined NCO and air crewman. For the Academy assignment, Prevett returned to school for a master’s degree in human behavior. “Jet” went to Drill and Ceremony school.

Soul of the Academy

We know people must be curious about the Academyand the cadets. I myselfwas curious. I didn’t serve in the military. I’m an outsider, a fresh set of eyes and ears experiencing it all for the first time on behalf of our audience. And the more I read and researched, the more interested I became. My two sons are of cadet age, and as I help my younger son with his college selection process and plans for the future, I became especially sensitive to what it must be like for young cadets to make the kind ofcommitment they have to the Air Force, the nation and to themselves.

We decided that we can best tell the overarching story of the Academy’s mission by telling stories of personal and

Any stereotypes I may have had are already breaking down. Their leadership style has a far less authoritarian attitude than I expected and focuses on coaching, mentoring and finding the lessons for growth in each experience. They possess a low-keyed but powerful conviction to duty, character and professionalism in action and appearance. They are also creative and continually look for ways to develop motivation and unit pride. Prevett lets one of his cadets wear an orange and white “Tigger” costume for the cadet “march-in” at a Falcons football game as a contribution to “esprit d’ corps.” “Jet” sponsors the Academy’s hunting club, taking several cadets hunting on his days off.

Prevett is extremely accommodating, inviting me to squadron activities and lining up interviews. I soon discover that the cadets have many varied reasons for being here.

C4C Alyson Busch knew at the age of 10, riding in a transport plane, peering through an observation bubble that she wanted to fly - even become an astronaut. She’s an Air Force brat, (her father’s a retired colonel), and Alyson was recruited as a basketball player. Her sister is a basketball player at West Point. They keep up a playful rivalry. There’s no place she’d rather be. She loves the military lifestyle and wants to “fly heavy” (large aircraft).

C4C John Dunn of Cheyenne, Wyo., has discovered a passion for physics since he learned in class that the limits of aeronautic designs are dependent on the composition and strength of the

"Tiger Ten" saboteurs just beginning to "decorate" a firstie's room while he's attending the 100th Night Dinner. (Photo by Alan Hayden)

materials used in their construction. Now he’s all over it. The Academy’s engineering and science programs are among the best in the nation. He’ll be challenged to make the grade.

C1C Sean Mitchell also comes from an Air Force family. His mother was an “enlisted” for four years. His father is a retired master sergeant. When he graduates, Sean will outrank his dad - a touchy family situation? His father will be especially proud to salute him on graduation day. Sean’s a boxer, focused on competing in the Wing Open. Like Kelly, Sean’s also been assigned “Ninety-two Tango Zero - Pilot!” and is now hoping to train at Columbus AFB, Miss., closer to his home state ofAlabama.

C1C Cindy Nieves loves jumping out of airplanes, performing free fall aerobatics and landing on a dime as a member of the Academy’s intercollegiate Wings of Blue skydiving team. She was recently featured in a Latina Style Magazine article and has just come to realize in a powerful way the opportunities and responsibilities of being a role model for other young Latina women. She’ll be attending aircraft maintenance training after graduation.

ClC Veronica Gao is the new cadet commander of Tiger Ten. She commands her staff with confidence, her small physical stature being of no consequence. She is also engaged to be married to another firstie from CS-21 two days after graduation. Then she’ll study Intelligence for a year away from her soon-to-be husband.

Fast forward to Feb. 25, the night ofthe 100th Night dinner. We are celebrating 100 days from graduation, though we are actually only 96 days away, Gao informs me. Tonight, the firsties will find out the locations of their post-graduate assignments.

The CINE Design team meets up withJetton at his Vandenberg Hall office and follows him to where cadetsJaclynTaylor and Van Valkenberg are printing out the last pages of packets to be placed in large manila envelopes for the firsties to open at the dinner. Prevett likes to give his firsties packets of information about the location they’ll be assigned along with the actual announcements. Down another hallway, cadets carry on the tradition of“decorating” senior rooms as a practical jokes.

We join up with Prevett and his wife, Gina (an Air Force captain), and hundreds ofcadets streaming into Mitchell Hall. Tonight, the cadets and Academy staff are in battle dress uniforms and flight suits. Traditionally the 100th Night dinner attendees wear dress blues, but tonight the cadet organizers wanted to reinforce the development ofa “warrior spirit.” The BDUs are also used as a reminder of a militarycurrently at war.

The cadets, commanding officers and guests are seated at the familiar cadet meal tables. Included in the opening speeches and tributes is a series of toasts of sparkling cider to the heads-of-state of the countries ofgraduating foreign cadets.

Tommy Lasorda, long-time manager and current senior vice president of the Los Angeles Dodgers, is introduced as the keynote speaker. He will also speak at the 12th annual National Character & Leadership Symposium the next day. This is his ninth appearance at the Academy. He begins his inspirational, and often humorous, speech by drawing the audience in with, “I know what it’s like to be your age, but you don’t know what it’s like to be my age.” He tells stories from his baseball days and ends with a story about a cadet who had just about given up on being a pilot because of a head injury. With encouragement and determination, the cadet finally achieves his dream ofbecoming a flyer. Never ever give up!

The cadets have been patiently waiting for the moment they open their envelopes, and now the suspense is beginning to build. Champagne bottles are delivered to the tables. Guests at each table are given the honor of passing out the envelopes. On cue, the cadets open their envelopes and look at their assignments. I was not expecting the resulting outburst of celebration and congratulations that followed. Now the firsties knew with certainty that most oftheir friends would be sent away in different directions after graduation.

Nieves is going to aircraft maintenance training at Luke AFB, Ariz.

Mitchell is already on his cell phone. He got Columbus AFB! He’ll be close to home. Later he reminds me that he is competing in the Wing Open the following week. “Two of the biggest events in my time at the Academy happening within one week!” he explains.

Kelly is grinning - Sheppard AFB, Texas - his first choice! His roommate, ClC Eric Swenson picked up Columbus.

Gao’s assignment is a foregone conclusion. She is going into intelligence, which means Goodfellow Air Force Base, Texas. Her fiance, ClC Nicholas Brownheim, is going to communications at a different location.

The firsties circulate, comparing their assignments, reveling in the camaraderie with high fives and hugs, anticipating the next journey in their lives, and perhaps holding on to this moment in this place if for just a moment. 9

^ As cadets and graduates of the Academy, you hold integrity in the highest regard. Your official ring is created with that same integrity byJostens, your partner in expressing pride in the United States Air Force Academy.

BRIGADIER GENERAL ROBINSON RISNER

UNITED STATES AIR FORCE 1944 - 1976

FIGHTER PILOT - ACE WARRIOR PATRIOT

Perot:

The secret behind a 9-foot statue and the difference between leadership and management was clarified to Academy cadets by a 1953 Naval Academy Graduate.

While the plaque on the 9-foot statue of Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Robinson “Robby” Risner describes some of his exploits, it doesn’t detail why the statue of the jet ace is taller than his physical height.

Former presidential candidate Ross Perot explained this to cadets Feb. 24, during a visit to the Academy’s 12th Annual National Character and Leadership Symposium.

Perot spoke about character and leadership, using examples ranging from Attila the Hun, medieval knights, the Magna Carta, to special operations legend retired Army Col. Arthur “Bull” Simons.

The businessman used examples of each, showing how these apply to behaviors which still hold true in today’s society.

“In a world full of changes, human nature doesn’t change,” Perot said.

The Texas businessman is currently chairman emeritus ofthe Perot Systems Corporation. He is best known for his 1992 and 1996 presidential campaigns, as well as hiring Simons to successfully bring his employees out ofIran after the Shah of Iran’s pro-U.S. government fell to revolution in 1979.

Perot is also a strong supporter of the military, said Gen. Richard B. Myers, chairman of the Joint Chiefs

The statue of Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Robinson “Robby” Risner stands nine feet tall. H. Ross Perot told cadets why.

‘Human nature doesn’t change’

ByJohn Van Winkle, Academy Spirit

Photo by Ken Wright

of Staff. “Ross Perot is the epitome of selfless service,” the general said, noting that people have almost had to ‘wrestle him to the ground’ to give him awards recognizing his efforts.

Speaking of some of these examples ofservice, Perot started with honest risk taking, saying “Anyone who doesn’t take risks doesn’t accomplish anything. Better to make an honest mistake than to not try at all.”

He also mentioned several examples of what he looks for in employees, his expectations as a business leader, and even how he defines the difference between managing and leading.

“Never use the word management when dealing with people. You manage inventory, not people,” he said with passion. “You never lead a box. It’s inventory. You put it on the shelf. You lead people.”

Perot then gave the saga behind one of the best examples of a leader he knows Risner, who was a fighter pilot during World War II, the Korean War and the Vietnam War.

Risner’s 9-foot statue adorns the Air Garden on the terrazzo, thanks to Perot’s efforts in 2001.

“Robby Risner is the example of what an officer should be. Mr. Risner is the example of what a fighter pilot should be,” Perot said.

Risner flew more than 100 combat missions in F-86s against MiG-15s over North Korea. He is credited with eight enemy aircraft destroyed and became the 20th jet ace during the Korean

War. One ofthose eight kills came after Risner knowingly went up against one ofthe enemy’s top aces.

Risner went on to serve in progressive command positions in Europe, the United States and Japan. In 1965, he went on temporary duty with the 67th Tactical Fighter Squadron at Korat Royal Thai Air Force Base, Thailand, flying F-105 Thunderchiefs. He was shot down over North Vietnam in April 1965 and was rescued. Risner was returned to duty and in September 1965 was shot down again over North Vietnam and captured.

“It’s important to remember that a [surface-to-air missile] shot him down. Not a MiG,” Perot added. While held prisoner in Hanoi, Risner served first as the senior ranking officer and later as vice commander of the 4th Allied Prisoner-of-War Wing.

While the ranking prisoner of war, Risner ordered church services for his men, which was against his captor’s wishes. When the time came to have the services, the men sang a church hymn. Risner told the Academy Spirit in 2001 that the hymns were handscribed on toilet tissue.

Hearing this, “the North Vietnamese guards dragged him from his cell,” Perot said.

Risner was bound for a return trip to solitary confinement when his fellow prisoners then changed their chorus from a religious tune to a forbidden anthem. They started singing the expressly-forbidden “Star Spangled

Banner,” at the position ofattention in their individual cells, Perot said.

He didn’t indicate if it was on the orders of Risner, or a choice made by his fellow prisoners, made to show their support for their commanding officer.

Either way, the result was the same.

“They paid for that, and they knew that was going to happen,” Perot said.

Years later, when Risner recounted the tale to his friend, the Texan had one burning question.

“I asked him, “Robby, what were you thinking?” Perot recounted.

“He said, ‘at that moment I was nine feet tall and felt like I could go bear hunting with a switch.’”

“That’s why the Risner statue is nine feet tall,” Perot told the cadets. Risner’s seven-plus years ofcaptivity ended with his repatriation in February 1973.

He returned to active duty and became combat ready in the F-4E Phantom within five months.

Risner continued on active duty for another three years, retiring as the commander of what’s now the graduate school for fighter pilots, the Air Force Weapons School at Nellis AFB, Nev.

General Risner last visited the Air Force Academy in November 2001, when his statue was unveiled and dedicated in the Air Garden. B

THE LONG BLUE LINE

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.

Looney, ’72, gets fourth star President George Bush nominated Lt. Gen. William R. Looney III, ’72, for his fourth star and to be the next commander of Air Education and Training Command.

Looney is currently the commander ofthe Aeronautical Systems Center. His nomination must be confirmed by the U.S. Senate. He would then be slated to assume command ofAETC from Gen. Donald G. Cook, who is scheduled to retire.

Air Education and Training Command, headquartered at Randolph AFB, Texas, is responsible for the recruiting, training and education ofAir Force personnel. The command consists of 13 bases, more than 66,000 active-duty members and 15,000 civilians.

“Serving with the men and women ofASC has been a privilege,” Looney said. “This has been my ninth command and it has been very professionally rewarding to perform a mission that is so vitally important to our nation and to our Air Force. However, it’s people who make our Air Force the best in the world, and I’m looking forward to new challenges and responsibilities at AETC.”

Grads pass flags

at 5th AF Change of Command

U.S. Forces Japan and 5th Air Force got a new commander when Lt. Gen. Thomas Waskow, ’70, recently turned over command to Lt. Gen. Bruce A. Wright, ’73, during a ceremony at Yakota AB, Japan.

Wright previously was vice commander of the Air Combat Command at Langley AFB, Va. Waskow, a command pilotwith more than 4,500 flying hours, including 904 in combat, became Japan’s senior U.S. military representative in November 2001. He announced retirement plans last fall but remained in place as Wright’s nomination by President Bush made its way through the Senate.

VeriFone appoints Denend, ’63, to Board of Directors

VeriFone Inc., a leading provider of payment solutions, recently announced the appointment of Dr. Leslie G. Denend, ’63, to the board ofdirectors.

“Les Denend has a wealth of experience as an operating executive, public company director and government advisor. We are honored to have his experience on our board,” said Douglas G. Bergeron, chairman and CEO ofVeriFone.

In his long and distinguished career, Denend has served as president of Network Associates, CEO ofNetwork General Corporation and CEO ofVitalink Communications Corporation. Previously, he was executive vice president at 3Com Corporation and was a partner in McKinsey & Company.

Denend served as special assistant to the assistant to the President for National Security Affairs. He was an adviser to the chairman of the Joint Chiefs ofStaffand he served as a director of the Cabinet Council

on Economic Affairs. Denend earned a Ph.D. and an M.B.A. from Stanford University. He also currently serves as a director ofExponent Inc. and McAfee Inc.

Kelly, ’86, to pilot shuttle

Lt. Col. James M. Kelly, ’86, has been selected to pilot the NASA space shuttle mission. The STS-114 Return to Flight Mission on the Discovery shuttle marks the first launch since the Columbia shuttle exploded Feb. 1, 2003, killing all seven crew members aboard. It is set to take flight between May 12 and June 3 from the Kennedy Space Center in Cape Canaveral, Fla.

Kelly received a bachelor of science degree in astronautical engineering from the Academy in 1986 and a master of science degree in aerospace engineering from the University ofAlabama in 1996.

Kelly piloted a 2001 Discovery mission to the space station. A 2003 flight was canceled following the Columbia disaster.

Popovich, ’70, an NBA favorite

Gregg Popovich, ’70, head coach ofthe San Antonio Spurs was recently voted as the best coach in the NBA. The results of the poll, taken by the Rocky Mountain News, surveyed 151 NBA players.

Popovich received 45 votes (29.8 percent), nearly twice as many as Detroit’s Larry Brown, whom he assisted at the Athens Olympics.

“I love his team,” Portland Trail Blazers forward Zach Randolph said of Popovich. “He’s a winner and not just one year.”

Popovich led the Spurs to NBA titles in 1999 and 2003.

Eberhart, '68, tapped by AFBA

The Armed Forces Benefit Association has appointed Gen. (Ret.) Ralph “Ed” Eberhart, ’68, as its president.

Eberhart’s active-duty military career spanned 36 years. His last assignment was Commander, U.S. Northern Command and Commander, North American Aerospace Defense Command. He is a command pilot with more than 4,300 flight hours.

Eberhart has been praised repeatedly for bringing together the five military branches of service, to include the Coast Guard, and the National Guard and Reserve forces to ensure the security of our nation in the aftermath of the tragic September 11 terrorist attacks.

As president, he will also serve as chairman of 5Star Bank, 5Star Life Insurance Company, AFBA 5Star Investment Management Company, and AFBA 5Star Fund Inc.

Wilson, ’82, changes committees

Rep. HeatherWilson, ’82, has been appointed

to the House Intelligence Committee where she will head a subcommittee that oversees the budget for spy satellites and other intelligence hardware.

The Albuquerque Republican said the national labs at Sandia and Los Alamos receive about $230 million each year for work related to the intelligence community. Her subcommittee will share jurisdiction with her former committee on Armed Services over the intelligence budget ofthe Department ofDefense.

Wilson also will remain a member of the House Policy Committee. As chairwoman of its national security and foreign affairs subcommittee, she recently released a report on the proliferation of nuclear weapons. Among other things, the report called for development of better tools to detect nuclear material at long range.

Scace, ’72, gets general’s stars

Daniel R. Scace, ’72, recently pinned on two bright silver stars designating him a brigadier general in the Connecticut Air National Guard.

Scace flew F-4 Phantom II fighter jets for a few years and left the active-duty service in 1980, but he found that he couldn’t stay away.

BEHIND THE SCENES

“As soon as I got out of the Air Force, and went to work as an engineer, I missed flying, and I missed the camaraderie,” Scace said. So in 1982 he joined the Air National Guard and began advancing through the ranks.

Maj. Gen. William A. Cugno, the adjutant general of the Connecticut National Guard, who presided over the “pinning” ceremony, said few officers advance as far as Scace.

“It isn’t often that you make general officer, and it couldn’t have happened to a better guy,” Cugno told the crowd. “Getting to be a general officer is quite a difficult road.”

For the last few years, he said, Scace has commanded the 103rd Fighter Wing at Bradley International Airport, which represents about 20 percent of the Connecticut guard, with 1,000 members. Scace saw to it that the troops were prepared for challenging deployments to Afghanistan and Iraq prepared well enough that they all came home.

Now, Scace is the deputy director of the Joint Forces headquarters, which consists ofabout 100 soldiers and airmen who provide resources and direction to the state’s Guard units. B

Once Upon a Time A Good Night’s Sleep

By Jeff Silliman, ’65

I saw your “Once upon a time. note in the summer 2004 issue 0/Checkpoints, and thought 1 dpass on a tightly-heldstory which, although it happened in 1961, was not discussed until 65’s 25th reunion in 1990. Its a true story that aged two fourthclassmen (my roommate and me) 15 years in as many minutes. It now seems safe enough to publish in '65 s 40th reunion year. Enjoy.

n those old days, when fourthclassmen didn’t get oft the grounds desirable, and, if done carefully, not observable. So, about a half even for Christmas, squadrons would sometimes take weekends at hour or so after everything settled down, we quietly gathered our Parish Memorial on a mountain lake up in the Ramparts behind sleeping hags, pulled on our AFA sweats, and covertly made our the Academy. These weekends provided a very affordable weekend way to that quiet back hall. date since the cabins and food were free! Fourth-class dates were That carpet was like a Serta Perfect Sleeper mattress, but it blind-date arrangements, courtesy of the Cadet Wing 1 lostess, Mrs. wasn’t all together as quiet as we noted on our first men-are-fromGail McComas, but eating at ease was about an equal attraction. In Mars-women-are-from-Venus observation: guys crash after a long any case, meals and group activities were centered in the old lodge day of parades, play, and food; women talk. That was not much where the cadets, then all guys, made do with more primitive sleep- of a disturbance as they were in bedrooms with closed doors ing arrangements like sleeping bags on the wood floors. The dates at some distance from the back hall. It was still far better than were housed in the more modern lodge, located perhaps 50 yards where we had been, and it wasn’t much of a problem until some away with bedrooms, hunk beds, carpets on the floor, etc. So now, midnight visiting started and we were discovered by a couple of the story unfolds. upperclassmen’s dates.

After a Saturday afternoon and evening lull of socializing and food. Stray kittens, puppies, and doolies seem to bring out the moththe dates retired to their quarters while the cadets took over the old ering instinct in college-age women, and instead of sounding the lodge facilities, making ail hoc sleeping arrangements according to alarm, they invited us to take two unused bunk beds in their room, rank. Phis meant that my roommate that year, B.J. Kennedy, and 1 The alarm should have gone oft in our heads, but we were charmed joined the rest of the fourthclassmen on the floor of the main meet- to be mothered and so there we were, in doolie heaven, participating ing room. Now, as you might imagine, a bunch of over-picnic-fed in a co-ed pajama party and ensconced in two upper hunks. Nothing doolies (beans and weenies included) sleeping on a hard wood floor funny going on - just enjoying the comfort and female attention, was a challenge even to those who were reputed to be able to sleep That bliss came to an abrupt halt when a knock and whispered anywhere, in class, at attention, wherever, That’s when Bill and 1 warning announced their upperclass dates had arrived to say came up with our bright idea. another good night. Not only was there no route of escape, but

When we escorted our blind dates back to their quarters, we it turned out our adoptive big sisters’ dates were two of the most noted a quiet, carpeted back hall. formidable members of the upper class.

As we were trying to sleep on the hard floor with the snores

Thoughts from “Boy, 1 need to go to the bathroom!” to visions and night sounds of 30 folks in our room, it occurred to us that a of seeing ourselves being sent home from USAFA in disgrace filled quiet, carpeted back hall in the girls’ quarters would be far more our minds. The dates, who were either more alert or less petrified

than us, quickly told us to cover up in our hunks and that they would gel rid of their dates outside the room door, saying that their roommates weren’t feeling well (And we weren’t!!). However, our two formidable upperclassmen were not that easily dismissed, and all of a sudden, there we were, two upperclassmen, two dates, and two doolies in the same small room. And of course, these two hard noses picked this time to he condescending and were insisting on doing something for the sick roommates. You can only imagine the eternity of those five or 10 minutes as our big sisters talked them out of seeing how we were really doing.

A few minutes later, our newly found angels were hack having said goodnight a second time to their dates and informed us that the coast was clear. By that time, as you might well imagine, sleep had departed and passing on the invitation to remain, we hooked for the pure comfort of the hardwood floor full of our snoring classmates.

As we made our way hack via the toilet facilities for both need and to cover our tracks, we determined that we shouldn’t speak of this even between ourselves lest someone hear and disclose this neardeath experience. In fact, Bill and I never did speak of this with each other or others until that 25th class reunion when the 13th Squadron got together at the Broadmoor. Then, in the course of the evening, we, as old friends in common bond of our cadet experiences, waxed long, sharing memorable and funny experiences of our times together, lb the amazement of our classmates that evening, this story came out as the “capstone” cadet story of the evening! V'

io submit your “Once Upon u Iinn" story, please e-mail it to editor@ttsafa.org.

Lt. Col. Keith D. Schultz, 79, is the winner of the 2005 Colonel James Jabara Award for Airmanship. Schultz has demonstrated BOTH HEROISM AND SUSTAINED SUPERIOR PERFORMANCE AS A B-52 AIRCRAFT COMMANDER, MISSION COMMANDER, TEST EVALUATOR, AND INSTRUCTOR pilot. The Jabara Award, named in honor of Col. James Jabara, America’s FIRST JET ACE, IS GIVEN ANNUALLY TO AN AlR FORCE ACADEMY GRADUATE WHOSE ACTIONS DIRECTLY ASSOCIATED WITH AN AEROSPACE VEHICLE SET HIM OR HER APART FROM CONTEMPORARIES.

“Seldom in the history of aviation do we have a unique situation where a SINGLE INDIVIDUAL HAS THE ABILITY TO CONCEPTUALIZE, TEST, DEVELOP, AND THEN VALIDATE THE NEW WEAPON SYSTEM IN ACTUAL COMBAT OPERATIONS. HOWEVER, SUCH IS THE CASE OF LIEUTENANT COLONEL KEITH D. SCHULTZ ...” So BEGINS THE NOMINATION PACKAGE SUBMITTED BY THE AlR FORCE RESERVE COMMAND. INDEED, Schultz’ story greatly impressed the superintendent and the senior AcadEMY OFFICIALS WHO MADE UP THE 2005 JABARA SELECTION BOARD.

Schultz participated in Operation Enduring Freedom in Afghanistan, where he saw the need to develop a more effective means of providing close air support from high altitude. As described in the nomination package, “He had been pursuing the innovative notion of mounting a Litening Pod II on the wing of a B-52. In theory it was plausible but much needed to be done to implement the plan.”

Under intense pressure as the situation in Iraq worsened, he had to overcome multiple obstacles. For example, he had to map the coverage to avoid the cockpit crew being blinded by the lasers. By his initiative, determination and personal involvement, he was able to complete the validation process, which typically takes two years, in four months. He worked with the systems program office of Northrop Grumman and Boeing to get the wiring laid throughout the airframe and the software developed to interface with the B-52 bombing system. He arranged the test schedule, and then flew a multitude of test sorties. The sorties identified several problems, including the high altitude limitation of the original fusing, and he was instrumental in efforts to overcome these problems. The award package narrative describes the importance of the modification. “With this new Litening II capability, the crew could now estimate in real-time the nature of the target, identify friendly or collateral damage concerns, and decline a target if it is not fit for strike.”

Shortly after the beginning of the Iraq War, Schultz deployed to Fairford RAFB, England. Again, quoting the nomination package, “On April 11, 2003, Lieutenant Colonel Schultz distinguished himself as the aircraft commander of Facet 32, in the performance of air combat operations over Iraq in support of Operation Iraqi Freedom. On this date Facet 32 was tasked as a single ship Killbox Interdiction/Close Air Support in northern Iraq. Rapid advances by coalition forces created a dynamic battlefield environment, complicating target detection and positive identification for all players. Facet 32 immediatelystepped in to provide a much needed capability using their recently fielded Litening II targeting pod to survey

BEHIND THE SCENES

BY STEVEN A. SIMON, 77

the area between Mosul and the Syrian border for enemy forces engaging the advancing coalition ground assault. Lt. Col. Schultz quickly made the transition from surveillance to strike operations and proceeded to an airfield in the vicinity of Saddam Hussein’s home in Tikrit, for tasking with a ground forward air controller.” The assignment “required Facet 32 to penetrate areas defended by SA-2 and SA-8 surface-to-air missile sites and execute a dangerous overflight of the target in order to verify target locations and evaluate collateral damage concerns. Lt. Col. Schultz penetrated the SAM site and released a GBU-12 laser guided weapon on a command center with dead on accuracy. He then executed two more attacks in the target area destroying a communications complex, denying the enemy’s ability to control combat operations. This historical event marks the first ever B-52 release and self-designation of a laser guided weapon in history. Not satisfied with making history, Colonel Schultz requested and obtained targets for their 16 external loaded 1000 pound CBU-103s.” While completing this mission, he was forced to use evasive maneuvers when there were indications of a surface-to-air threat.

Gen. Tommy Franks personally recognized Schultz for his tremendous accomplishments on this historic 15-hour flight which effectively demonstrated an incredible new combat capability for the B-52 and the continued expansion ofthis venerable aircraft’s combat prowess. During Operation Iraqi Freedom, Schultz went on to fly 200 hours in combat and drop 275,000 pounds ofmunitions.

Schultz joins a distinguished group of Academy graduates who have been honored since the Jabara Award was first given in 1968. Winners include Vietnam War heroes Karl Richter, ’64, Steve Ritchie, ’64, pioneering astronaut Karol Bobko, ’59, and current USAFA Director of Safety Harold E. Waters, ’85. Colonel Schultz will be presented the 2005 Jabara Award for Airmanship on May 13 during the noon meal at Mitchell Hall and will be honored at a dinner hosted by the Association of Graduates. S

Opposite inset: Lt. Col. Keith Schultz and members of the B-52 crew who dropped GBU-12s on a command center in Tikrit, Iraq. (From the left) Aircraft Commander Lt. Col. Keith Schultz, Electronic Warfare Officer Maj. Trey Morris, Navigator Capt. Patrick McDonald, Radar-Navigator Lt. Col. Bill Floyd and Co-pilot Lt. Col. Rob Hyde. (Photo by Master Sgt. Andrew Lynch)

Right: Lt. Col. Keith D. Schultz, 79, was awarded the 2005 Colonel James Jabara Award for Airmanship. Schultz demonstrated heroism and sustained superior performance as a B-52 aircraft commander, mission commander, test evaluator, and instructor pilot. (U.S. Air Force photo)

Cadet research helping NASA return shuttles to space

by John Van Winkle Academy Public Affairs

t cademy research is helping NASA shuttles return to # space after more than two years of investigations and improvements following the Feb. 1, 2003, loss ofthe M space shuttle Columbia.

This academic year, the academy is assisting NASA’s return-to-flight program by using the skills of instructors and cadets to put a model of the space shuttle through its paces in the aeronautics department wind tunnels.

That research includes the impact ofleading edge damage on the shuttle’s wings, said C2C Matt Karmondy.

“The objective was to see ifleading-edge damage would adversely affect lift, drag and stability of the shuttle after reentry,” he said. “It turned out certain damage configurations did raise some concern, and further investigation will be conducted to see if the shuttle has the capability to overcome stability issues caused by wing-leading edge damage.”

The research is being accomplished in the Academy’s aeronautics research center. This 38,400 square-foot facility houses world-class experimental and computational facilities, including five wind tunnels, officials said. NASA provided a 1/60 scale model ofthe shuttle for use in the Academy’s subsonic wind tunnel. This tunnel simulates speeds of 30 to 600-feet-per-second, officials said.

Last semester’s research started with a baseline evaluation of the shuttle model. Once the baseline data was collected, several different leading edges were fitted onto the model, officials said. These changes simulate damage at different locations, allowing researchers to evaluate the resulting changes in pitch, roll, yaw, stabilization and other aerodynamic characteristics of a damaged shuttle.

NASA officials are making a new wing for the model, said Thomas Yechout, aeronautics department professor and research adviser for the project.

“It will also have a variety of damage configurations along the left wing,” Yechout said. “It differs from the first model wing since it will include a cavity inside the wings’ leading edge, with pressure taps to measure pressure loads in the vicinity of the damaged structure.”

Those pressure changes inside the wing relate directly to the reason for the loss of Columbia, officials said.

Columbia Accident Investigation Board officials said the loss ofthe shuttle was caused by a piece of insulating foam that separated from the external tank seconds after launch and struck the left wing’s leading edge. Upon re-entry, this breach allowed superheated air to penetrate

the leading edge insulation and progressively melt the aluminum structure of the wing. Columbia broke up at an altitude of 203,000 feet while traveling at Mach 18, just 15 minutes before its scheduled landing at Kennedy Space Center, Fla., killing all on board.

“This is an excellent program for the cadets to be involved in, providing very needed and necessary answers to real-world problems, and (providing) wonderful experience for our cadets to do hands-on research work that has a direct impact,” Yechout said.

“We’ve been involved with NASA, doing wind tunnel investigations, for the past eight to nine years,” the professor said. “That research and support has evolved through various programs, from the X-38, to orbital space plane design configurations and most recently for (escape capsules) for the next-generation spacecraft.”

The return-to-flight research is one of about 300 undergraduate research projects currently under way at the Academy. H

Blasting through the hazy late morning sky, the Space Shuttle Discovery soars from Launch Pad 39A. (Photo courtesy of NASA Kennedy Space Center)

Name: C3C Dierra Poland

Class: 2007

Squadron: CS-1 5 ‘War Eagles’

Hometown: Deptford, N.J.

Major: Social Sciences

Extracurricular Activities:

“Track & Field and drawing. Poland recently smashed the Academy pentathlon record with 3,586 points, breaking the previous record by 350 points. Highlighting her outing was a second-place finish in the shot put with a career-best toss of 41 feet 2 1 /4 inches.”

k Favorite Aircraft: F/A - 22 Raptor

Air Force Goal: “To be the best officer I can possibly be.”

Role Models:

“My mother and grandmother. They have exemplified the type of woman I should grow up to be, and worked extremely hard to take care of their families, no matter what.”

Favorite USAFA Memory:

“My Prop & Wings ceremony. Getting my Prop & Wings committed me to graduating from USAFA, no matter how difficult things get. It meant that I was officially an upperclassman and because of this I couldn’t turn back.”

C4C Jacob Arndt flies the behavioral sciences’ virtual simulator during Majors Night. (Photo by John Van Winkle)

Cadets search for direction at Majors Night

he first wave ofstudents seeking information about academic majors during the Feb. 2 Majors Night in Fairchild Hall came from the Academy Preparatory School.

The Academy requires cadets to declare a major by October oftheir second year. The hall was alive with hundreds ofstudents, most seeking the academic major that would help shape their Air Force careers. On both sides ofthe huge hall, academic department members were out in force and were easily approachable.

“Almost 1,000 folks attended Majors Night approximately 930 fourth-class cadets and 70 preparatory school students,” said Maj. Melissa Flattery, one of the registrar’s office academic affairs staff officers. “Since current third-class cadets were required to declare a major in October 2004, we didn’t expect to see many there.”

Of 1,237 fourth-class cadets, 242 had already declared an academic major prior to the spring semester’s Majors Night. There is the opportunity to attend three Majors Nights before settling on a major, so cadets still have an opportunity to change their major, as long as they can meet that major’s requirements.

Although a cadet may state their plan to declare a specific major, nothing is finalized in the cadet administrative management information system until they speak with their associate air officer commanding for academics, their cadet file is passed to the new department, and their new adviser loads the selected major into Cadet Academic Management Information System.

There was no arm-twisting, and the young cadets came prepared. During discussions with cadets, Col. Alan Klayton, professor and head of the department of electrical engineering, recommended cadets in quest of a major ask four key questions:

- What do officers do with this major in the Air Force?

- What do officers with this degree do after they retire from the Air Force?

- Will it lead to excitement and fun for me in the Air Force?

By Butch Wehry, Academy Spirit

- What am I good at, talent-wise, that fits me?

“Cadets interface with officers every day in class and they learn through discussions, lectures and ‘war-stories’ what’s to be expected on active duty,” Flattery said. “But Majors Night allows cadets to get a wide sampling and hands-on experience discussing what’s to be expected in each major and how these majors are put to work on active duty. There’s a great deal to be gained in these two valuable hours.”

The displays were innovative and informative, while cadets and faculty worked hard to make the event entertaining, as well.

Maj. Hugh Bacon, history department instructor, was wearing an 1835-43 vintage military uniform, complete with a rifle and bowie knife. “We may get five or six students who sign up for history tonight, the rest are just checking us out,” he said. “A history major can do anything he or she wants in the Air Force, to include being in intelligence or flying aircraft.”

In another area, representatives from the Air Force Research Lab spoke with cadets and prep school students about what they could expect to do on active duty with a degree in engineering mechanics or mechanical engineering. In front of the biology department’s information area, Martha the boa constrictor slithered around the shoulders ofbiology major C1C Katherine Ivey as the senior helped professor Helen Pigage discuss opportunities with cadets.

Each of the Academy’s 32 majors, two minors, and the office of Student Academic Services had somethingspecial to offer. Other attention-getters were the laboratory rats and brain tissue the behavioral science department displayed. The electrical engineering department had several robots; military strategic studies offered cadets the opportunity to fly simulators; and civil engineering, physics and meteorology had great gadgets as well.

“All displays were well thought-out and the faculty members and upperclassmen on hand put forth a tremendous effort and provided a wealth of information to share with the inquisitive cadets and preppies,” Flattery said. 9

To Defend Freedom

Col. Will Gunn, ’80, leads defense of enemy combatants

By Seth Stern Harvard Law Bulletin

Col. Will A. Gunn, '80, recently named by the Office of the General Counsel of the Department of Defense as the acting chief defense counsel for military commissions, holds a press conference at the Pentagon on May 22,2003, to discuss his role in the military commissions process. (Photo by R. D. Ward)

In a nondescript building in suburban Virginia, two subway stops from the Pentagon, a team of a half dozen or so defense lawyers works on what is perhaps the toughest - and most controversial legal assignment in America.

One of the few hints of who their clients are is the Navy travel agent upstairs reimbursing trips to Yemen and providing ferry and flight schedules to Guantanamo Bay, Cuba.

These are the attorneys assigned to defend “enemy combatants” detained as part of the war against terror and now awaiting trial before military commissions. The detainees face charges including aiding the enemy and attempted murder by an unprivileged belligerent, and penalties including death. At the helm of the defense team is Col. Will Gunn, ’80, a thin, 6-foot-7-inch career military lawyer.

Few lawyers - in or out ofuniform - can boast a more impressive resume: One ofthe first African-American students to attend his Florida middle school and the first to become student body president at his high school, he graduated from the U.S. Air Force Academy, served as a White House Fellow and earned a couple of master’s degrees along the way.

At Harvard Law School, he served as president of the Legal Aid Bureau before embarking on a career as a military defense lawyer, a job he’d known he wanted since childhood. “I always had an ability to identify with the underdog,” he said.

For inspiration, he looks to John Adams’ Colonial-era defense ofBritish troops charged with opening fire on a Boston crowd, and to the military lawyers who put their careers at risk to prosecute Lt. William Calley Jr., an officer implicated in the My Lai massacre during the Vietnam War. It’s a sense ofduty he found best summarized at the Guanta-

namo Bay naval base itself in the motto of its joint task force: “honor bound to defend freedom.”

Although Gunn does not represent any of the detainees himself, he selected and supervises the attorneys and works behind the scenes, he says, to ensure the process is “full and fair.” It is a role filled with tension, he admits. He must report to military superiors and also advocate for his team of lawyers and the clients they represent. “That makes life exciting,” he said with a grin.

So far, the military commission process has been less than smooth. At the first hearing in August at Guantanamo, which Gunn attended, confusion reigned as one detainee asked to represent himself. “There are a lot ofgaps in the rules,” Gunn said.

The military lawyers Gunn supervises have surprised many observers - and perhaps some within the administration with their vocal advocacy. His defense lawyers have publicly charged that the commissions’ outcomes cannot possibly be fair and just.

Gunn says his position precludes him from being as outspoken, but he has criticized rules that allow the military to listen to attorney-client conversations and has complained about the inadequate resources provided to the defense. He also signed off on the attorneys’ decision to file an amicus brief in the U.S. Supreme Court last term, in the challenge to the detentions.

That amicus brief proved controversial within the administration, but it was ultimately approved by the Pentagon’s General Counsel Jim Haynes and White House Counsel Alberto Gonzales.

Gunn’s team has received positive reviews from legal observers. “What I’ve seen so far is a very professional coordinated attack on the jurisdiction of the commissions and on the resources [provided],” said Michael F. Noone Jr., a former military defense lawyer who now teaches law at the Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C.

“It’s all the things I would think human rights groups would expect competent defense counsel to go after.”

The aggressive defense has certainly not surprised Gunn, who bristled at any suggestion that military lawyers would be any less zealous than civilian defense attorneys. “I’ve never had any doubt they would receive the very best defense from military defense counsel.” RH

Firsties

CE the Academy Character Enrichment Seminar

By Butch Wehry, Academy Spirit

A SPECIAL SEMINAR FOR FIRST-CLASS CADETS CHOCKED FULL OF REAL LIFE EXAMPLES OF DECISION MAKING BY SENIOR LEADERS EXAMINED CPIARACTER AND LEADERSHIP

ISSUES AT THE OFF-SITE LOCATION JAN. 21. The Academy Character Enrichment Seminar was a dynamic one-day program that focused on the ethical demands placed on Air Force officers.

ACES helps the first class-cadets examine their roles as current and future leaders at the Academy and in the Air Force. Active-duty officers candidly discussed their careers.

Attendees are exposed to issues, concepts and experiences designed to convey the importance ofcharacter and leadership development to the positive transformation ofthe Air Force and the Department of Defense. Participants engage in dialogue throughout the day that focuses on both ethical development and decision making within the Air Force core value framework.

Maj. Gen. (Ret.) Gary Dylewski, a former Air Force Aide to Presidents Reagan and Bush, was a guest speaker at the seminar. “Now that you’ve gone through nearly four years working on your personal and team character traits, what impact do you think personal character has on an organization?” he asked the firsties. “The minute you graduate in the football stadium, you’ll outrank 80 percent of the Air Force,” The general told the cadets. “You’re expected to have the needed integrity to lead. We don’t give you a checklist for making ethical decisions”

Dylewski spoke of an Air Force two star general who recently retired as a colonel due to improprieties, and a senior acquisition executive who was convicted ofengaging in illegal negotiations with a potential future employer.

Dylewski harkened back to a time when people who flew and maintained F-4 aircraft were strapped for time and resources and began fudging combat readiness reports. “We didn’t have the resources to keep the fleet up, and people didn’t want to give superiors bad news,” he said. He had a friend, then a captain and now a three-star general, write a letter about it to Air Force Headquarters. “It made a lot of people mad,” Dylewski said. “But as a captain, his character and integrity changed the U.S. Air Force.”

Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Malham Wakin, who retired from the Academy as emeritus professor of philosophy in 1995, was also a speaker. “If someone says, ‘I’m glad to have you in my squadron,’ what do you have to do to get that remark? You have to have trust,” Wakin said. “That calls for being a truthfill person every day. Ifyou slice an orange and a lemon and a grapefruit, they have the same feel, but not taste,” he told the attendees. “You can’t really teach or describe to someone the differences in the tastes of citrus fruits they need to experience them for themselves.”

Then he produced a golfball and clubs, and gave a brief but effective lecture and demonstration of golf. Likewise, he stated, “You can’t teach someone how to golfby merely talking about it they have actually do it Now you’ve got all the knowledge you need,” Wakin said, “but why isn’t everybody an expert? The moral is that we’ve got to practice doing the right thing every day,” he said.

The veteran philosophy instructor spoke of his days in New York in the 1950s when he was a 23 year-old wornen’s basketball coach. Catholic and Jewish females, people with whom he had very little commonality, came to him for counseling. “That was from trust,” he said.

Spirited discussions of the facilitators’ real-life ethical dilemmas took place during the seminar.

“This program is just one of many offered to ensure we, the Academy, are doing the very best job possible to graduate character-based officers for our Air Force and nation,” said Col. Joseph Mazzola, Academy Character Development Center director.

ACES is the last of four character development seminars designed for each class of cadets. Doolies participate in Vital Effective Character Through Observation and Reflection seminars, third-class cadets participate in Respect and Responsibility seminars, and second-class cadets participate in Leaders in Flight Today seminars. 9

The Association ofGraduates is proud to providefinancial support for all of these important character development Academyprograms.

Link to Chapter Web sites at www.usafa.org

Chapter News

Outlook

AFA Society of North Carolina

After several successful events with the Navy grads, we are continuing to broaden our allacademy activities. Upcoming joint events include the second Tri-Service Shootout in April and the annual golf tournament in June. We are also invited to their monthly lunches. The AFA Society holds monthly socials at 6 p.m. on the third Wednesday of each month. We will also begin a quarterly networking meeting featuring the business of one of our members.

Atlanta Chapter

Join us for our annual celebration of Founders Day 6:30 p.m. April 30 at Jock and Jills, 4046 Peachtree Road. A buffet dinner, ($16 per person, free parking) will be served at 7:30 p.m. Our guest speaker will be USAFA Dean of Faculty Brig. Gen. Dana H. Bom, ’80. Attendance is open to all USAFA graduates and any members ofthe Georgia Parents Club.

Heartland-LeMay Chapter (Neb.)

The chapter hosts an open lunch for graduates from 11:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. on the fourthTuesday ofevery month in the Bellevue area. Check on the chapter Web page for the locations.

Middle Tennessee Chapter

Upcoming events: Academy Association lunches, Parents Club Cadet Send-off, and then Tri-Service GolfTournament in Franklin.

Northern California Chapter

The chapterenjoyed an active winter and looks forward to a number of upcoming events. In June, we will support the Parents Club for the annual Doolie Send-Off Dinner. Throughout the year, the chapter will participate in numerous joint service events, and as always, we plan to have the fall AOG sports picnic at the Moraga Country Club.

Rampart Chapter (Colo.)

The chapter plans on having its annual picnic at the end of August at the home of Rick Broome.

GOAL 5

Interact with other service academy graduates

Atlanta Chapter (Ga.)

There was a strong blue presence at Phillips Arena Dec. 11 as the Zoomies struggled with the mighty Georgia Tech men’s basketball team. Eternal Falcon booster Mike Jensen, ’84, and Rich Bradshaw, ’84, passed out the blue shirts. Tom Pilsch, ’65, and Keith Williams, ’77, were also spotted in the crowd.

Northern Alabama Chapter

Chapter President RustyYerkes, ’96, took the chapter “on the road” Feb. 11-12 to help cheer on the Air Force hockey team for their weekend series against University ofAlabama-Huntsville. The gathering began Friday evening when more than 40 graduates, parents and friends met at the Huntsville Hilton for socializing and appetizers. Then, Falcons hockey coach Frank Serratore stopped in with five hockey players to give the crowd a pregame talk and strategies on how to beat UAH. After the talk, the

Members of the hockey team talk with the members of the Northern Alabama Chapter.

Among the faithful at the USAFA vs. Georgia Tech men’s basketball game were “T” Thompson, 73, and his ladies, Taylor and Sydney; along with Alan Price, ’68, and wife Marlee and Jo Zurbrugg (Rick, ’65).

Chapter Goals continued

coach, players and attendees went over to the Von Braun Center for the game. During the weekend, the Falcons were able to split with the UAH Chargers, a tough team to play on their home ice.

Northern California Chapter

The chapter celebrated Christmas early at the annual Mountain Home Inn Christmas Hike and Dinner event in December. As always, the Cunninghams made the event special. The chapter has also enjoyed cheering for the Falcons when the Air Force Academy soccer, gymnastics, fencing and track and field teams have come to the Bay Area.

North Texas Association

Our annual business meeting occurredJune 29 at Los Gringos Restaurant in Ft. Worth. The meeting was held in conjunction with the visit of the USAFA rifle team as they competed against nearbyTexas Christian University. New

GOAL 6

Give back to the community

AFA Society of Washington D.C.

The Honorable Frederick Gregory, ’64, acting NASA administrator met with local graduates and members Feb. 9 at the NASA Headquar-

officers include Ed Kirkham, ’78, president; Lev Prichard, ’89, vice president; and Joe Barkate, ’83, secretary-treasurer. Former president Buddy Lott, ’76, and long-time board member, Mike Mills, ’95 also were presented plaques ofappreciation.

Rampart Chapter (Colo.)

The chapter continues to keep its finger on the pulse of the Academy with guest speakers at the chapter luncheons. The March luncheon featured the men’s rugby coaches, Capt. Dan Marine, ’96, and Howard Stableford.

ters auditorium. The evening began with an introduction by Holly (Emrick) Svetz, ’80. She described the society, its mission its accomplishments in the preceding year and a look ahead at future events that are designed to engage and motivate the graduate community. William Glascoe, ’91, introduced Gregory.

The audience was treated to a fascinating life’s journey from Gregory’s beginnings and accomplishments through his work in the strategic realignment of NASA. But his most poignant remarks were toward his strong identification with his graduating class, and the friendships he made while at the Academy and among classmates and graduates in his life subsequent to graduation.

Gregory concluded with a question-andanswer session that touched upon his philosophy of work and life, and the future of the nation’s space program.

Alamo Chapter

Members of the Alamo chapter volunteered Jan. 8 to help Habitat for Humanity build a house. The chilly morning weather turned into a beautiful day as grads were teamed up with a group ofhigh school students, which added to the fun. Several ofthe retired guys enjoywoodworking as a hobby, and lent some expert help in correctingproblems left byprevious crews. It was a good day, and one that will be repeated.

On Jan. 21 the president ofthe Alamo chapter, Brig. Gen. “Dutch” Remkes, ’77, made a

special presentation for public service to chapter member Mike Nishimuta, ’73.

Althoughworking full time as the operations support manager for dNovus RDI founded by Nancy (Mariano) Kudla, ’80, Mike finds time to serve in leadership roles in several community organizations, and as a mode of leadership and communication, constructs and maintains Web sites for each group he serves. Since moving to San Antonio in 2000, Mike has immersed himself in volunteer activities. He joined the Alamo chapter three years ago, is active on the board, serves as lead for the monthly business and networking group meeting and built and maintains the Alamo chapter Web site. He also maintains the Web site for the USAFA Parents Club of South Texas. He is currently president ofthe Archdiocese ofSan Antonio Chapter ofthe Knights ofColumbus, representing more than 10,000 Catholic men and organizes a golf tournament and charity auction to raise $48,000 to build a house with Habitat for Humanity San Antonio. He is active in the Diocesan Choir, and joined them at the recent installation ofthe new Archbishop in San Antonio. Integral to his leadership style in both the chapter and the GolfTournament is an active Web site for both groups. As a

San Antonio reception.

Rampart Chapter (Colo.)

The chapter teamed up with the Lance P Sijan Chapter of the Air Force Association to put together a prematch pizza party before the ever-popular Wing Open. The joint force of AFA and chapter was able to raise more than $1,500 for the Wing Open Charity Drive. D>

Newly-elected Vice President Lev Prichard, ‘89 of the North Texas Association, speaks to members of the cadet rifle team.

Frederick Gregory, ’64, acting NASA administrator met with local graduates of the AFA Society of Washington D.C.

Lt. Col. (Ret.) Mike Nishimuta, 73 (Left) and Brig. Gen. “Dutch” Remkes, 77 (Right) ofthe Alamo Chapter

third-generation Japanese-American, Mike is a board member oftheJapan-America Society of San Antonio, and he maintains their Web site. He, along with others on the board, welcomed the Japanese ambassador to the U.S. at a recent

Affi

H%upS Link

AcademyWomen

AcademyWomen is an organization run by women service academy alumni to provide mentorship and networking opportunities for all our members. More than 460 women and men are enrolled from different specialties around the world. We are planning our second annual AcademyWomen Leadership Symposium this summer at the Womens Memorial in Arlington and will be hosting an event for women cadets and alumni during Homecoming weekend.

Space

Space-related activities are increasing at the Academy - to the delight ofthe space group. In our original white paper on space education at USAFA, written in 1999, the space group (not yet affiliated with the AOG) made a number of recommendations to the Academy and AOG leadership. Now, only six years later, almost

to Chapter Web sites

all of our recommendations have been implemented. Of course, we recognize that it was not our group alone that recognized the advisability of these initiatives, nor can we claim great responsibility for the significant changes we’ve seen to space education and awareness at USAFA. Nevertheless, we have seen a lot of progress, and it’s very rewarding.

With that background, the space group has undertaken a revitalization initiative to determine what we would like to do next. Some of our programs and activities have been very successful; some have not. Some of our group’s members have been very active; some have not. Some of our ideas have been great; and others

The time has come to reexamine our goals, activities, structure and operating concept. During the next few months, we will poll our members to assess their views on these key issues and any others they want to raise. By the

time of our next report to Checkpoints readers, our direction will likely be different. Of course, we invite any grads to join the group and participate in this discussion about how we, as a graduate community, can best promote the Academy’s development into the premier undergraduate space educational program of service to our national security.

We may not have far to go.

Service Academy

What is SACC?

The SACC is the Service Academy Career Conference supported by the Associations of Graduates from the U.S. Air Force Academy and the U.S. Military Academy, and Alumni Associations from the U.S. Naval Academy, U.S. Coast Guard Academy, and U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. Previous conferences have been attended by hundreds of companies and thousands of alumni.

Where will the SACC be held?

The next SACCwill be held at the Sheraton San Diego, 1380 Harbor Island Drive, San Diego CA. You may obtain a room for the SACC rate, ifavailable. Call (619) 291-2900 for reservations and ask for the SACC rate. There are many other hotels available in the area or stay with classmates or family.

Career Conference

AUGUST 18-19, 2005 SAN DIEGO, CA.

SACC Schedule of Events

Thursday, August 18, 2005

Interview Prep Seminar at 6:30 pm - 8:30 pm

Friday, August 19, 2005

Breakfast (provided) 8:00 a.m. - 9:00 a.m.

Registration 9:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.

SACC - 12:15 p.m.

Lunch (provided) 12:15 p.m. - 1:30 p.m.

SACC 1:30 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.

Saturday, August 20, 2005

Interviews only ifdirectly scheduled between company recruiters and candidates; Companies will contact you directly regarding any on-site interviews during the SACC.

Ifyou have any questions, contact Wayne Taylor at (719) 472-0300 or DSN 333-4513.

Registration Fee

The SACC Candidate registration fee is $35 and may be paid by check or credit card. Please mail the attached registration with form ofpayment and one copy ofyour resume-resumes must be one page/one sided and on plain copy paper. Please mail your registration, or e-mail to: sacc@usna.com. Please do not fax-we need a nice, clean copy of your resume. Registration deadline August 5, 2005.

SACC Hotel Information

Sheraton San Diego 1380 Harbor Island Drive San Diego, CA 92101 (619) 291-2900

Next Scheduled SACC

Austin, Texas, November 10-11, 2005

S/ACC Candidate Registration Form (San Diego, CA., 2005)

NAME (for name tag, no ranks):

ADDRESS:

USAFA CLASS:

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

Will you attend the free Interview Prep Seminar? C^Yes ONo

Please include: (^Registration Form □ Fee $35 (^Resume (1 page/1 sided)

Mail to: SACC

247 King George St. Annapolis, MD 21402-5068

Shop online

24 hours a day at

Cutter & Buck. AOG crest on left chest. 100% premium soft cotton jersey. Contrast striping on the collar and cuffs $39.50

MV Sport. 80% cotton, 20% polyester. "Air Force" applique across chest with "Academy' embroidered beneath $45.00

MV

Cadet Sweatshirt

92% cotton, 8% polyester. Light gray with reflective lettering $45.00

Polo/Golf Shirts

Hooded Sweatshirt

Stadium Blanket

Pre-shrunk 80% cotton, 20% polyester. 54" x 84" Pro-Weave sweatshirt blanket. Air Force Academy and AFA crest printed on blanket $22.00

Crewneck Sweatshirt

Sport. 80% cotton, 20% polyester. "Air Force" applique across chest with "Academy" embroidered beneath $40.00

Squadron Pins

Pins match all current squadron patches and many previously used patches (Please specify squadron) $5.00

Class Notebooks

6 1/4" x 9" Gray leather notebook. Years available: 1966, 1991-1995, 19972005 $12.50

50th Anniversary Coin Gold color w/United States Air Force Academy 50th Anniversary printed around edge. Flip side white background w/Air Force Academy Crest. 1 1/2" diameter. $8.00

2005 Ornament Oval shaped ornament featuring the eagle and fledglings statue. In the background is the cadet chapel and a sunburst $20.00

50th Anniversary Ornament Globe with six vignettes around the equatorpegasus, a falcon, eagle & fledglings, a sailplane, the chapel, and the prop and wings $24.00

Here's a Toast

Print by Keith Ferris. Numbered and signed. Approximate size is 24" wide by 30" tall.

Unframed $62.50

Expect Great Things

A historical documentary of the first fifty years of the U.S. Air Force Academy. Available in DVD and VHS $14.95

Falconry Book

Hard Cover. By Lt. Gen. A. P. Clark, 6th superintendent of the USAF Academy. The story of the cadets' unique performing mascot $34.50

License Plate Frames 'Alumni', 'Falcons', or 'Parent' across the top and 'Air Force Academy' across the bottom. Each frame $6.25

Any two frames $10.50

Footfalls

Print by Rick Herter. Artists proofs of the War Memorial. Approximately 24" wide by 17" tall.

Unframed $156.00

Official USAF Academy cadet saber. Available to graduate members only. Saber with scabbard $192.25

Excellence in Athletics

The athletic experience at the Air Force Academy is essential for the overall development of our cadets. Through intramurals, intercollegiate competition and physical education programs, cadets are pushed to their physical limits to develop necessary leadership abilities.

Academy intercollegiate athletic programs have always been primarily funded through non-appropriated funds (i.e. ticket sales, advertising, gift shop receipts, etc.). To remain competitive, it is necessary for the Academy to grow these funds.

To enhance our important athletic programs, the Building Leaders of Character for the Nation campaign seeks to secure $10 million.

Athletic Leadership Endowment ($7 million)

Athletic leadership endowments are aimed at attracting and retaining the best role models to lead our cadets and athletes. More than 40 percent of athletic expenses are personnel costs primarily funding for coaches in 30 premier sports. The 25 percent ofcadets who participate in intercollegiate athletic programs spend more time with their coaches than any other leaders at the Academy, making it even more essential to have the right people in these critical positions.

The marketplace for attracting individuals who believe in and represent the values of the Academy both on and off the field is becoming increasingly competitive. Athletic leadership endowments will provide a

consistent, predictable stream of resources that will allow the Academy to attract and retain elite coaches whose primary responsibility is developing character and integrity in the lives of cadets. In total, we seek to secure $6 million in endowments for this purpose.

The athletic director is charged with the overall physical development of cadets in the context of the Academy mission. Under the athletic director’s guidance, cadets develop the physical skills necessary for officership. An athletic director leadership endowment allows the athletic director to fund unforeseen opportunities and programs that will benefit the entire Cadet Wing. This may include bringing in high-level speakers for the athletic leadership lecture program, providing equipment and travel stipends for intramural and club teams or helping our athletes’ performance by enhancing the human performance laboratory.

Intramural Endowment ($1 million)

Intramurals have always been an important part of the Academy experience. This athletic competition fosters initiative, self-confidence and the experience of being part ofsomething greater than oneself. Currently, cadets play on squadron teams in 15 sports, such as soccer, tennis, boxing, water polo, team handball, rugby, basketball, cross country, volleyball, flag football, softball and racquetball.

In many of these sports, there are opportunities for cadets to compete against other colleges and universities. Through private funding, cadets are able to travel

The Campaign for the Future ofthe Air Force Academy

Gift Opportunities

Athletic Leadership Endowment: Football

Field House Pavilion (Naming Gift)

Athletic Leadership Endowment: Men's Basketball

Athletic Leadership Endowment: Women's Basketball

Intercollegiate Sports Endowment:

Supports All Intercollegiate Programs (6)

Athletic Director Leadership Endowment (10)

Intramural Endowment (20)

to regional competitions. The intramural endowment will create a steady stream of revenue for programmatic costs such as athletic gear and travel. Our goal is to fund the intramural program in perpetuity by securing a $1 million endowment.

Field House Pavilion ($2 million)

The Academy seeks to secure $2,000,000 to fund a 5,200 sq. ft. sports hospitality center to be built in the Cadet Field House - the Academy’s most-used athletic facility. The facility creates an enclosed space for approximately 160 occupants, allowing simultaneous viewing of events in the basketball, ice hockey, and multi-purpose (indoor track and field area) arenas. The center is intended to serve as a vehide to promote the athletic department.

This sky box seating venue will enable the Academy to generate additional revenue in support of all athletic programs. The athletic department envisions hosting small conferences and creating an elite membership opportunity to raise additional funds for its programs. Almost the entire Cadet Wing will benefit from this additional revenue as funds will be dispersed among intercollegiate, intramurals, and club sports.

Five repeat titles at

Wing Championships

BY USAFA ATHLETICS

PHOTOS BY

KEN WRIGHT

Highlighted by five repeating champions and seven first-time winners, the 2005 Air Force Wing Open Boxing Championships showcased a stellar display of skill and tenacity. In front of an excited crowd at Clune Arena, 22 Falcons vied for a shot at a Wing Open title and a spot on the Air Force Academy national team.

C3C Willie Lloyd opened the night with his second consecutive Wing Open title at 112-pounds. Lloyd earned the victory with a decisive win over C3C Steven Bogert as the referee stopped the contest in the first round. In the 125-pound bout, C3C Ezekiel Ignaco extended his Wing Open title streak, picking up his second straight victory with a decision over C2C Jeremy Homan.

C4C Brian Navin claimed his first Wing Open title at 132pounds, as he took a decision over C2C James Baker. The next two bouts featured contests that were stopped by the referee in the third round. C2C Luis Pena picked up his second Wing

Open title at 139-pounds when he took down C2C Lonnie Ash in the third, while C1C Blake Baldi (the runner-up to Pena one year ago) earned his first title at 147-pounds when the referee stopped his bout with C3C Taylor Gifford.

The 156-pound bout featured two contenders who had competed through the quarterfinal and semifinal rounds ofthe loaded weight class. C1C Adam Vance, a runner up in 2003, picked up his first Wing Open title, as he earned a decision over C3C Trevor Cook.

C1C Mike Sackenheim claimed his first Wing Open title at 165-pounds, taking the decision from C3C Joe Conrad in a rematch of a classic Friday Night Fights contest from earlier this year. C1C Augustin Kamdem earned the decision over his classmate, Evin Negron, in the 175-pound bout to earn his second Wing Open title.

The remaining three bouts all featured first-time champions at the Wing Open.

Last year’s runner-up at 185-pounds, C2C Chris Collins picked up his first title when the referee stopped his contest with ClC Sean Mitchell in the second round. ClC Brock Predovich’s contest with C2C Oscar Casillas was stopped in the third round when Predovich sent Casillas into the ropes with a hard hit. And in the night’s final match-up, C3C Ian Tuznik claimed a decision over C2C David Bullock in the heavyweight bout.

ClC Darren Smith, was unopposed this year at 119-pounds, and claimed his fourth Wing Open title. He became just the 10th cadet-athlete ever to earn four consecutive Wing Open titles. Smith joins an elite group offormer boxers that includesJim Ingram, ’64, Gary Vasek, ’68, “Buzz” Dyre, ’69, Charlie Stallworth, ’73, Alex Cline, ’80, Ricky Graham, ’82, Bryan Dunn, ’93, Mike Benza, ’00, and Joel Rivera, ’01.

Following the bouts, the Air Force coaching staff named Collins the 2005 Wing Open Outstanding Boxer. With his hard-hitting victory over Mitchell, Collins received the event’s most prized trophy, the Clune Award. The award is presented to the most outstanding boxer and is named after former Air Force athletics director Colonel John J. Clune.

The winners went on to claim the Academy’s 26th consecutive regional title at the National Collegiate Boxing Association’s West Regional Championships in Reno, Nev. The team brought home 12 medals, including five gold, four silver and three bronze.

The twelve medalists advanced to the NCBA National Championships, which was held March 31-April 2 at the Academy. Results ofthose bouts will be published in the summer issue of Checkpoints. SB

Destined COMMAND

By Tech. Sgt. Cindy Dorfner, 100th Air RefuelingWing Public Affairs

It’s been 20 years since Lt. Col. Bart Weiss, ’86, suited up as the starting quarterback for the Air Force Academy Falcons, and considering the records he amassed during the 1984 and ’85 seasons, some might say it’s a wonder his career path didn’t lead to the National Football League.

For instance, in 1985, Weiss became the first player in Academy history to rush and pass for more than 1,000 yards in the same season when he passed for 1,449 yards and rushed for another 1,032. At the time, he was just the third player in NCAA history to do this.

Records like this led to Weiss’ consideration as a Ffeisman Trophy contender during his senior year. The award, given to the most outstanding college football player, instead went to Bo Jackson who went on to play professional football, as well as baseball.

Nowadays, Weiss commands the 351st Air Refueling Squadron. His squadron is responsible for aerial refueling for all U.S. and NATO aircraft in the European theater covering more than 20 million square miles and 91 countries.

“It doesn’t surprise me one bit that he’s a commander in a very viable leadership position, because he showed that when he was playing football here at the Academy,” said Fisher DeBerry, Falcon head football coach since 1983.

Maj. Gen. Mike Gould, ’76, current 3rd Air Force commander and former Air Force Academy Prep School football coach, said Weiss seemed to be instincfive about leading his team.

“The quarterback is often referred to as the ‘field general,’ and that was what Bart Weiss was for the Air Force Falcons,” Gould said. “That general must be able to not only execute his specific responsibilities; he must also be able to view the overall situation and make strategic decisions on the field. I know of no better Air Force leadership training ground than the one an Academy quarterback experiences every Saturday afternoon in Falcon Stadium.”

Weiss agreed he learned a lot ofhis leadership skills at Falcon Stadium, and said he definitely feels being a commander is much like quarterbacking a football team.

“I can think of20 different examples ofhow football is like being a commander in the Air Force,” he said. “In

both situations, you have to be responsible and know a little bit about every position on the field. But this doesn’t apply to just commanders; it’s all leadership in the Air Force.”

As a quarterback and commander, Weiss said leaders have to know how to manage people with each of their strengths and weaknesses.

“Football is a sport where you have 11 people from all walks oflife with one goal in mind - to win a game - and the Air Force is just like that,” he said. “It’s a team of a whole bunch of people with one goal in mind to complete the mission.”

Getting the chance for the leadership position on the gridiron wasn’t as easy as his records might lead folks to believe, though. Unlike most NCAA schools, the Air Force Academy doesn’t just court a few star players.

Fleisman Trophy contender Bart Weiss, ’85, is now a lieutenant colonel commaning the 351st Air Refeuling Squadron.

USAF Photo

“When I was recruited by the Academy out of high school, I was recruited along with 27 other quarterbacks. A regular college gets about 30-40 recruits each year. The Air Force Academy recruited 200,” Weiss said.

The break for him, however, came during his junior year when the starter got hurt. His first big game was against Navy, when he led the team to a crucial victory. “We beat Navy pretty bad,” he said.

In the games that followed, Weiss excelled as a starter, eventually leading his team to be ranked No. 4 in the nation his senior year.

The team was in position to play for the national championship, but lost to Brigham Young University. The Falcons went on to play the Blue Bonnet Bowl and beat Texas.

With a resume full of football awards, such as being the runner-up the Davey O’Brien National Quarterback Award in 1985, it seems Weiss could have chosen a football career, instead ofstaying in the Air Force.

“I was contacted by the Atlanta Falcons, but there’s a whole lot that goes into making that jump from college to the pros,” he said. “At that point, I had decided to serve my country and wanted to become an Air Force officer.”

However, the Air Force nearly missed out on Weiss’ leadership altogether.

Growing up in Naples, Fla., the son of two high school teachers didn’t start playing football until high school. As he continued to get better at his sport, offers started flowing in from several NCAA schools. But Weiss knew his calling. He wanted to go to Dartmouth College.

His decision was influenced, however, by his high school football coach, the father of his future wife, Kathy. As the son of an Air Force two-star general, his coach began talking to his daughter’s boyfriend about the benefits of an Air Force career.

“My parents were fundamentally patriotic, but I didn’t have this burning desire to fly airplanes like most people at the Academy,” he said. “But I loved to play football, and the Air Force offered everything that Dartmouth did. It was academically just as astute as an Ivy League school, and it was Division I football. It seemed like the right move.”

It was the right move for everyone associated with Falcon football. DeBerry said he knew Weiss’ potential early on.

“I knew he was something special. He certainly was a special football player,” DeBerry said. “I’d call him a warrior and a winner. He believed he could whip anybody, and then he went out and did it.

“No matter how tough it got, he got tougher,” he said. “He showed that in a great win over Virginia Tech in the Independence Bowl. That team had a lot of big players, some who went on to play in the NFL. He took a beating in that game, but we put the game in his hands in the second half and he took charge and did what he had to do to win the game.”

One ofWeiss’ colleagues and former teammate from the early days of the Falcons’ famous “Wishbone Offense” said what Weiss lacked in size (he was fairly small for a quarterback at 6feet tall and about 180-pounds), he made up from within.

“He had this internal fortitude that pushed him to win,” said Kyle Kingsford, ’86, a former member of the practice squad at the Academy, who is now a lieutenant colonel and commander of the 100th Operations Support Squadron. “I used to chase him all over the field but never caught him.”

Gould said the Air Force now benefits from what Weiss learned on the playing field years ago.

“Cadet Bart Weiss was the same kind of leader on the football field that his squadron members enjoytoday,” said Gould. “He led with quiet confidence that began with excellence in his position skills. He was never known as a cheerleader, but he could fire up his teammates by showing them the extra effort required to get the ball in the end zone. Ask any member of the 351st ARS they’ll know exactly what I mean.”

Weiss said he learned a lot, not only from his days of playing football at the Academy but also from those who mentored him.

“The coaches are not only great teachers of football, but oflife in general,” he said. “They taught us to take risks and if we make a mistake, recover from it. They said, ‘Here’s the play, here’s the end goal - just remember, how you get it done affects the game.’” B

Gensic matches Academy record with third-place finish at NCAAs byusafa Athletics

1C Paul Gensic earned All-American honors following an Academy record-setting third-place performance on the pole vault at the 2005 NCAA Indoor Track and Field Championships March 11, in Fayetteville, Ark.

Gensic matched the Academy record, as he cleared a height of 18 feet and one half inch, to finish third in the 16member field. The mark tied with Nebraska’s Ray Scotten and Oklahoma’s Scott Martin for the second-best height of the night, finishing only second to Tommy Skipper’s winning \$4Vi\

The tie-breaking procedure came from the second and third height increases. Both Gensic and Scotten cleared the second height on their first attempts, while Martin didn’t clear until his second try for the fourth-place mark. In the third height increase, Scotten cleared the first attempt and Gensic cleared on the second attempt to designate their respective second and third-place finishes.

The senior co-captain matched David Pike, who first set the record at the WAC Championships in 1995. It is Gensic’s second straight indoor All-American season and his third overall. V

FALCONS

win nation’s oldest ice hockey tournament

Shutout win, overtime goal result in dramatic victories

The Thanksgiving holiday weekend marked a monumental win for the Air Force hockey program. Behind the play of goalie C3C Peter Foster, the Falcons won the 54th annual Bank of America/Rensselear Tournament, the oldest college hockey holiday tournament in the nation.

Air Force defeated Sacred Heart, 3-2 in overtime, in the first round and then blanked the tournament host, Rensselar Polytechnic Institute, in the championship game, 1-0.

“This is an historic win for the Falcon hockey program,” said head coach Frank Serratore. “We have never won a major tournament before and this was a huge win for the program. This was not an easy win. We overcame 11 RPI power plays and our guys just flat out got it done.”

Foster recorded his fourth shutout of the season and C3C Brian Gineo netted the onlygoal as Air Force beat RPI. Foster, the national leader with four shutouts this season, was named the tournament’s most valuable player. Defensemen Gineo and C2C Brooks Turnquist were also named to the all-tournament team as each scored two goals and one game-winner.

By Dave Toller, USAFA Athletics

The Falcons join Minnesota, Michigan State, North Dakota, Boston University and Maine as winners of the RPI Tournament.

For just the second time in school history, Air Force has won a Division I tournament and just the second tournament championship on the road. Air Force won the UConn/SNET Classic in 2001 with victories over Bentley and Holy Cross.

“I always think more about the win than the saves or the shutout,” Foster said. “It was just great to see how happy the guys were after we won. We were the underdogs, but just came out and took care of our business.”

Air Force advanced to the championship game in dramatic fashion. For the second consecutive week, C2C Brooks Turnquist scored the game-winning goal in overtime to lead Air Force to a 3-2 win over Sacred Heart Nov. 26.

“It was such an exciting game,” Serratore said. “There were a lot of penalties called, but both teams’ penalty kills played very good. There was nothing easy out there tonight. It got to the point that everyone was numb, I was numb on the bench, and we just got the last bounce.” B

Knaute captures third title, named MWC Swimmer of the Year usafa Athletics

The Air Force men’s swimming & diving team took fifth place and the women seventh at the 2005 Mountain West Conference swimming & diving championships at Oklahoma City Community College. C3C Chris Knaute was named 2005 MWC Swimmer of the Year after his recordbreaking performance in the 1,650-yard freestyle.

Knaute set a new Mountain West Conference and Academy record in the men’s 1,650 freestyle with an NCAA provisional qualifying time of 15:09.15. Knaute shattered his previous best time of 15:21.40 by 12 seconds and his previous MWC all-time record time of 15:28.21 by 19 seconds. Knaute also won the 500 freestyle and the 400-yard individual medley in the previous two days.

Knaute went on to place 21st in the 400 yard individual medley prelims 31st in the 1,650 yard freestyle finals and 32nd in the 500 yard freestyle prelims at the 2005 NCAA Div. I Swimming & Diving Championships in late March.

C2C Matt Karmondy also swam well for the Falcons in the 1,650 freestyle, swimming the seventh-fastest time in school history (15:49.46) en route to a fourth-place finish. ClC Ryan Fitzgerald capped-offhis career by placing sixth in the 1,650 freestyle with a

AFA sports wrap

Air Force Print News

Backed by five gold medalists, the Air Force Academy boxing team claimed its 26th consecutive regional title March 19 at the National Collegiate Boxing Association’s West Regional Championships in Reno, Nev. With 64 team points, the Falcons easily won the team title to continue their winning streak. The Falcons also received four silver medals during the championship round. The winners from the East and Midwest Regionals met the Falcons at the Air Force Academy, Colo., on March 31 to April 2, for the 2005 NCBA National Championships.

With three golfers shooting 72 or better in the final round, the Air Force golf team fired a 287 on March 16 to finish 12th at the University of Denver’s Pioneer Classic. Leading the way for the Falcons was C3C Tyler Goulding, who shot a 70 in round three to finish in a tie for fifth. Goulding’s three-round score of 211 marked a personal-best.

In wrestling, the 2004-05 season came to an end for the Academy grapplers March 18 when the three Falcons who had made

career-best and ninth-fastest time in school history (15:56.73).

In the 200-yard backstroke, C3C Justin Lapin placed fifth with the fourth-fastest time in school history with a swim of 1: 49.51. ClC Evan Parr followed up in sixth with the sixth-fastest time in school history with a preliminary swim of 1:50.48.

C4C T.J. Cowling swam the ninth-fastest 100-yard freestyle time in Academy history with a 13th place swim of 45.64. C3C Ryan Moss followed up in 14th with a career-best time of45.74.

The Falcon women did well in the 1,650-yard freestyle, with four swimmers finishing in the top 18. C3C Lauren White placed second with the seventh-fastest time in school history (17:03.42). ClC Julienne White, Lauren’s sister, placed fourth with a seasonbest time of 17:09.57. C4C Tiffany Biddle placed ninth with a career-best time of 17:24.28 and C2C Ginny Miller placed 18th with a career-best time of 18:01.60. B

it past the first round were eliminated during the second round ofthe NCAA Championships, held in St. Louis. C2C Brandon Strong, who finished the regular season ranked 19th in the country at 125 pounds, saw his season come to an abrupt endwhen he was eliminated in the consolation bracket with a medical forfeit to Drew Forshey of the University ofNorth Carolina. Strong, a two-time NCAA qualifier, ended his season with a 26-8 overall record, despite struggling with injury for most of the season.

The Academy baseball team got the broom after suffering a three-game sweep at the hands of the University of Nevada-Las Vegas in Mountain West Conference action. In the first game, played March 18, the Rebels cruised to an 11-2 win. In the second game, held the following afternoon, three UNLV pitchers combined to toss a two-hit shutout in a 10-0 win over the Falcons. In the third game, played March 20, UNLV completed the sweep over the Air Force baseball team with a 13-2 win. The Falcons fall to 4-16 on the season and 0-3 in conference play. B

Sisters

succeed together as teammates on AFA swimming and diving team

By Nick Arseniak, USAFA Athletics

Photo by Danny Meyer

For Julienne and Lauren White, swimming has been a sister affair. For two years now at the Academy, theWhite sisters ofElizabethtown, Pa., have played key roles on the Air Force womens swimming and diving team. Although their days as teammates in the pool most likely concluded with the 2005 Mountain West Conference Tournament, their bond as sisters will last a lifetime.

Julienne, a senior whose specialty was the distance freestyle events, was a steady presence for the Falcon swim program all four years at the Academy. Entering the 2004-05 season, Julienne ranked in the top ten all-time at the Academy in the 200-, 500-, 1000- and 1650-yard freestyle events. In addition to her name being etched in the Falcon record book, Julienne is a three-time All-Mountain West Conference selection and a 2004 Academic All-MWC selection.

When looking back at her four years on the Falcon swim team, including two years as teammates with her younger sister, Julienne looked back with fond memories.

“I truly consider myself one of the luckiest people in the world,” Julienne said. “I don’t know anyone else that trains in a sport theylove, stroke for stroke with their best friend and sister. Lauren is my source of inspiration to push myself to the limits every time I’m in the water and at the same time she can make me laugh on my worst days. I’ll never forget the sporadic moments when she came to the wall breathing as hard as humanly possible and broke out into the song, ‘I Will Survive.’”

Lauren, a sophomore who also specializes in the distance free events, was arguably the Falcons’ top swimmer this season, earning a MWC Swimmer ofthe Week honor earlier in the season. All Lauren did this season was crack the top ten all-time Academy record books in the same events her older sister did. Lauren ranks ahead ofher sister in the 500 and 1650 free events.

Like her sister, Lauren also enjoyed her time as a teammate with her sister.

“We’re best friends,” Lauren said of her relationship with her sister. “We’ve been training together ever since we were little. I respect her and look up to her as an athlete dedicated to achieving her goals. No matter what she does she always strives to be better; she is never satisfied with her results. It’s that kind ofattitude and mindset that keeps me swimming and determined to be better each time I swim. When I was little I could barely keep up

with the sets that she finished, she basically swam circles around me. My goal was one day to be able to swim with her in practices and races. I thought it was the coolest thing when I was six and she was eight, and we got to swim in the same heat. It was so much fun. Everyday going to practice it’s like that day I raced with her when I was six; it’s so much fun. We train, we work hard, and we laugh. Everyday at practice is like spending hours with your best friend.”

At the 2005 MWC Championships where Air Force placed seventh, Lauren was named first team all-conference with her second place finish in the 1650 free, which she swam in a time of 17:03.42, the seventh-fastest time in school history. Julienne coneluded her Falcon swimming career by earning second team all-conference honors in the 500 free, where she finished fifth and the 1650 free, where she finished fourth. Julienne also swam the 200 free in a careerbest time of 1:53.60, which is the seventh-fastest mark at the Academy. S

NOMINATIONS OPEN FOR AOG BOARD OF DIRECTORS

All members of the Association of Graduates are eligible for nomination for election to the AOG Board of Directors. The nominating committee, a standing committee of the board, is responsible for identifying, researching, interviewing, evaluating and recommending to the board candidates for future board membership. Nominations are being accepted for the elections in spring of 2007, The nominating committee maintains a continual list of potential candidates for future elections. Names may be added to the list of nominees at any time by contactingthe AOG at 3116 Academy Drive, USAF Academy, CO 80840-4475, or by e-mail to aog@aog-usafa.org. Board members serve a term of either two or four years and may serve no more than eight consecutive years. A two-year break is required before serving again. Approximately half of the director positions are open for election every two years in odd-numbered years. Board members are volunteers and must attend quarterly board meetings in Colorado Springs at their own expense. Go to www.usafa.org for further details.

ArthurK. Shumate, ’59

“The oldest living grad.”

That was the only comment under the graduation picture of Art in the 1959 yearbook. A man of few words, he would not want a detailed accounting of his life and positions. If he were writing this he would probably keep it short and sweet and just say, “The oldest living grad isn’t!”

Though a title given by accident of birth, Art Shumate held it for 45 years. There will always be only one person to hold that title for so long; no one will ever beat that record.

Perhaps Art was most unique because he is the only person who suecessfully completed two years of college followed by the plebe year at West Point, resigned to take the exams for the new Air Force Academy, completed another year of college, and then entered with the Class of 1959 on July 11, 1955. He wanted to become an Air Force pilot and felt that this was his best route to that goal. His flying career covered considerable time as an instructor in T-37, T33, T-38 and T-39 aircraft. His combat experience was as a FAC in the 01-A with 670 missions and over 1,000 combat hours. In all he spent three years in college, five years at the academies, 26 years in service and 11 years with Boeing. His retirement only lasted seven years.

Arthur Shumate was everything the Academy intended for their graduates. He was a decent, honest, hard-working man who loved his wife, Carole, his children Darlene, Debbie, Mark, their families, and his country. He was a true patriot. We can ask for no more.

The “oldest living grad” graced us with his presence from July 2,1933 until he succumbed to Alzheimer’s on Dec. 11, 2004 71 years. For the first time, the title now passes on. (Paul S. Lasen, ’59)

Francis T. Brady,Jr., ’64

Our good friend, classmate, and lifelong pilot Butch (Frank) Brady made his last flight west early in the morning of Sept. 18, 2004. His cancer made the last months difficult, but he had a lot to say in the planning of the final celebration of his life.

He was born into an Air Force family in 1942, while his father was flying B-17s in the South Pacific. He grew up in a career Air Force family on various military installations, and in 1960 graduated from Kubasaki High School at Kadena AFB, Okinawa with a presidential appointment to USAFA.

At USAFA, Butch was a member of 7th Squadron, and is remembered as a gentle and private person who always cared more about others than himself. During our Doolie days he was a bright light to cheer us all up, especially when he’d pull out his guitar and strike up a tune. He worked hard to meet the challenges presented by cadet life, competed aggressively on the intramural fields, and was very supportive of his friends.

Graduation led to pilot training at Webb AFB and an assignment toC-130s at Sewart AFB, Tenn. With half a dozen of his USAFA bach-

but not forgotten

elor classmates also stationed at Nashville, he had a ball. Riding his Triumph motorcycle, he was particularly patient with Hugh Smith and Tom Rauk as they learned to keep up with him on their BSAs.

Newly married in 1968, he qualified in the F-100 and then spent a year flying 217 combat missions from Tuy Hoa. In the summer of 1969, he bailed out in enemy territory 30 miles west of Cam Ranh Bay but was rescued the same day by an army Huey helicopter. This tour was followed by a three year assignment in F-lOOs at Lakenheath before departing the Air Force on 7 December 1972. His decorations include 2 DFCs and 11 Air Medals, among others.

Hired by Delta Airlines in 1973, he moved to Atlanta and spent 15 years flying DC-8s, 727s, and L-101 Is. Inl988, he became a 727 Captain and moved to the Dallas area. His first flight as a Captain was the direct flight from DFW to Colorado Springs on Aug. 2, 1988. It was very special for him. He continued to fly 727s until he became medically disabled in 1998.

Divorced, and subsequently remarried, his new family included Patrick Ellis, a 1988 USAFA graduate, and eventually two granddaughters. He was very happy in his role as Step-Dad and Step-Grandpa. His community involvement included many years as a volunteer, board member, and president of several homeowner associations. He was active in the Veterans of Foreign Wars, the Airline Pilots Association, and belonged to the Texas Motorcycle Rights Association, the Texas State Rifle Association, and the National Rifle Association.

Butch carefully planned the visitation, and the wake/party that followed his death. He wanted it to be a celebration that his friends would enjoy. Butch was dressed as he requested, ready to do battle in the next life, party flight suit, USAFA saber in hand, and a lock of hair from his sister’s favorite horse, ready to be transformed into a trusty steed. He wanted his sunglasses on but the funeral home thought the locals might be offended. That was corrected at the academy before his burial. The wake had music, food, and plenty of fine Irish whiskey. The event was well attended by bikers, pilots, family, and friends. He received numerous honoring speeches. Always the chivalrous knight, at Butch’s request every woman was handed a yellow rose to take home.

The funeral was held at the cadet chapel, attended by family, and a number of friends and classmates. It was a fine and fitting Catholic service with a military honor guard escorting the casket. The internment ceremony at the cemetery was breathtaking. It was a crisp fall day and the sky was clear and blue, as it can only be in Colorado. Military Honor Guards carried his flag-draped coffin. Then they fired a 21-gun salute and presented the spent cartridges with the flag to his wife. After dismissal, Jim Wallace led a few of us in throwing nickels on the grass, with the nodding approval and understanding of the chaplain. (Byhis classmates in 7/64, and stepson Patrick Ellis,’88.)

Raymond P. Perkowski, ’65

Raymond Peter Patrick Perkowski bravely flew his final flight into the stars on Sept. 9, 2004. The long and difficult battle he waged against Leukemia was over, and he gracefully took to the skies. He will be forever missed by his wife of 38 years, Sharon, his daughters Mariah and Brynna, his sons-in-law Marc Smith and Matt Venne, and his grandchildren Tatum, Wesley, and Ella Simone.

Art Shumate

Butch (Frank) Brady

Ray Perkowski was bom and raised in Brooklyn, N. Y., and then in Allentown, Pa. where he met the love of his life, Sharon. They attended Central Catholic High School together, and became sweethearts. After graduation, Ray entered the United States Air Force Academy as a member of the Class of 1965. He flourished in the athletics program as a member and captain of the swim team, and enjoyed both his training and his studies.

Ray and Sharon married in 1966 and she gave birth to their first daughter, Mariah, in 1969. Ray served in the Vietnam War as a KC135 pilot, refueling fighters over Thailand. He was proud of his service, and always felt that his experience in the Air Force aptly prepared him for his future. After his tour of duty was complete, Ray joined Pacific Southwest Airlines in 1970 and enjoyed a 32-year career as a commercial airline pilot, first with PSA, then with USAirways after the companies merged. Sharon gave birth to their second daughter, Brynna, in 1974, and shortly afterward, Ray was promoted from copilot to captain.

Ray enjoyed an active life full of laughter, love, and play. He loved to surf and bodysurf. He loved swimming, tennis, golf, and skiing. He loved to travel, to go on long walks and hikes, to listen to music, to go to the movies with his family, to gaze at the stars. He loved to drive his sports car. When Ray first joined PSA he was based in San Diego, and he never moved away; San Diego was the perfect place the only place for Ray to enjoy his vibrant life.

Ray was diagnosed with Leukemia in 1987, and spent many years grounded from flight. After a successful stem cell transplant from his generous brother David, and a near-miraculous subsequent remission, Ray achieved his goal to return to the friendly skies in the Spring of 2002. He relished the opportunity to fly international routes on the A330, and once again see the world from above. Ray retired his wings in 2003 and enjoyed a special celebration with family and friends to mark the occasion.

Ray is remembered for his smile, his laugh, his humor, his positive attitude, his ability to truly listen, and his love of the active life. People are always surprised to find out that he battled Leukemia for so long because he never seemed sick. Ray never allowed his illness to be the focus of his life or the lives of his family members. He was a warrior, and he taught us not how to merely live, but how to thrive, even in the face of an enemy.

Ray was a loving and supremely dedicated husband, an affectionate and nurturing father, an incomparable father-in-law, and a gentle grandfather. He departed this life in his family’s arms, bathed in light and love. May he remember us as fondly as we remember him.

(Brynna Venne, daughter)

William D. Abraham, ’67

All who look back on the life of Bill Abraham can only smile at a life lived to the fullest, a life wrapped in the tales he loved to spin. Those stories revealed an affable kid from a small coal mining town, a cadet who thrived living on the edge, a passionate flyer, a leader in the coal mining industry, and a loving family man. On December 27th that life drew to a close following a two-year struggle with a combination of illnesses possibly related to Agent Orange exposure in Southeast Asia.

Bill came from a place called Cow Creek, West Virginia, a “holler” up the road from the town ofOmar among the coal mines ofLogan County.

Known there by people of all ages as Billy Dale, he grew up the selfassured, highly popular son of a WWII fighter pilot, leader in the coal mining business, and local sheriff who would be his role model in life. At Bill’s memorial service, people told stories that completed the picture of the Abe we knew, an all-round great guy who, as one childhood friends put it, could walk with princes and sit down with paupers, a friend to all.

Bill entered with the Class of 1966, but a Doolie year bout with mono and an intervening year at Miami University reset his cadet career. Bill would describe his Academy experience as a four-year running battle with the Dean, one which required sharp wits and some of his best adlibbing to survive. Yet Bill excelled at leadership, served as cadet commander of CS-02, and gained the skills that would serve him well as an Air Force officer. To the reliefofall, and none more than Bill’s, his blue Corvette smoked out of USAFA bound for pilot training in Arizona where he would find his first love in flying.

Bill went on to C-130s, first in Southeast Asia where he quickly built both flying hours and experience. He next went to Forbes AFB, Kan., where he became an instructor, then a flight examiner, well ahead of his peers. And there he met Betts, his beloved wife of 31 years, in yet another story of true Abraham proportion. On a routine flight transporting AFROTC cadets from KU on a field trip to Florida, our dashing young aircraft commander spied a tall, gorgeous freshman cadet whom he promptly invited to ride up on the flight deck on the pretext that the cargo compartment was no place for a lady. Someone fell for that line, and it wasn’t Betts.

An unavoidable assignment in Air Traffic Control during the postVietnam drawdown convinced Bill the future looked brighter in the coal mines; he joined his father and brother in 1976 and became president of Falcon Land Company. Labor unions, federal regulations, environmentalists, local politics; this was no easy business. But Billy Dale had returned to his element where leadership skills and his down-to-earth manner and story telling gained him the respect of managers and miners alike. Not surprisingly, the need for a company airplane soon became apparent; Bill became a mentor and counselor to local kids like himself, hoping one day to go to the Air Force Academy. Hard work, a lovely home, the occasional Corvette, a Harley or two, and three great kids tell a story of success. Bill loved to talk about his gang: Sara, a recent graduate in archeology and geology from Oberlin College, David, a sophomore business major at UWV, and Katie, a high school sophomore in Charleston.

Bill loved life, he loved people, and he loved telling stories about people, stories his friends never tired of hearing. Surely it was in the telling, for as the note Betts received on a floral arrangement sent by a classmate said, “We loved him too.” (Ron Boston, ’67)

Edwin L. Merideth,Jr., 68

Larry Merideth passed away unexpectedly on Oct. 13, 2004 in Mililani, Hawaii. Paradise lost... at the passing of Larry Merideth. His life was a testament to optimism, service to country, and love of family. Larry is survived by his wife, Pat; son Edwin “Butch” III; parents, Edwin Sr. and Lucelia; four brothers and three sisters.

Larry was born in Cheyenne, Wyo. I guess you could call Wyoming the eastern flank of Big Sky Country and that is where Larry got his dream of flying. With high school out of the way, it was off to the Air Force Academy and a rendezvous with the Class of ’68. Well, we all somehow survived that ordeal and got our ticket to Heaven’s Gate

Ray Perkowski

pilot training at Webb AFB, Texas. That is where I first got to know Larry. Our careers would later intersect again many times, where I had the privilege of serving together with Larry.

We later met, exchanging experiences, just as Larry returned from Vietnam and as I was shipping out to the ‘Nam. You would have expected some swashbuckling tales among old buddies, but there were none. There was no bravado. No swagger. That was not Larry Merideth. All I got was the matter-of-fact comments... the “been there, the done that’s”... and the “...off to my next flying job... great assignment... this Offutt RC-135 reconnaissance job is going to be a good deal”... and “Oh, sorry... four spades!” If you never had a chance to notice, Larry was 50 percent of a steamroller of a bridge team! An all-night siege was normal to break this crew... if you were lucky. A comrade-in-arms and classmate of Larry’s, A1 Dyer, paid the highest compliment to Larry in a letter he recently wrote to Larry’s wife, Pat. I was so moved by Al’s comments that I must share some of them. A1 and Larry were Pleiku Covey FACs. “Larry and I arrived at Pleiku together and we left Pleiku together. Let all know-there simply was no better man to have at your side in combat than Larry Merideth.” No greater tribute is there than to have the trust and confidence of a fellow warrior. A train-load of DFCs does not come close.

Larry’s career continued in SAC with many years flying and staffing in the strategic reconnaissance RC135 business. Not the up-close-and-personal reconnaissance that Larry was used to, but just as dangerous. Larry was happiest only with a challenge. If the challenge involved flying, so much the better. He served his country well; more than his fair share.

Larry’s next challenge was getting used to living in paradise... spelled HAWAII! His door was always open to classmates and friends dropping in... and many did. I enjoyed the fellowship and love of the Merideth household. Larry and Pat were gracious hosts to all.

We should not be saddened at Larry’s passing. We should let time erase... and fill that void with gladness... gladness that he happened along our way. Larry rests at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific, the Punchbowl. He is among many like him... patriots and servants of our nation’s freedom.

Fly... on your westward journey, Larry... fair winds and sunlit skies... forever. (Jim Thomas, ’68)

JackR. Kummerfeld ’75

Jack Kummerfeld, 52, passed away peacefully at his home in Cocoa, Fla. on Oct. 19, 2004 after battling a malignant brain tumor for two years. He was buried with full military honors at the U.S. Air Force Academy. Jack was born in Los Angeles, where he spent his youth until he entered the USAF Academy and graduated with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Military Science.

After Jack graduated, he attended and graduated from Helicopter Undergraduate Pilot training at Fort Rucker, Ala. and went to Korea as an H-3 rescue pilot. In 1978, he was handpicked to join the 1 st Helicopter Squadron at Andrews Air Force Base in Maryland, supporting VIPs at the Pentagon. In 1981, he was again chosen by name to join the initial cadre at the U.S. Mission Control Center in support of the International Search and Rescue Satellite Aided Tracking (SARSAT) program. In 1985, Major Kummerfeld went back to Korea to fly Special Operations helicopters, and became the Standardization and Evaluation pilot before he left. In 1987, he arrived at Patrick

Air Force Base in Florida. In January of 1988, he was once again personally selected to join the Office of the Department of Defense Manager for STS Contingency Support Operations. It was during that time that Jack earned a Master’s Degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry Riddle Aeronautical University in Daytona Beach, Fla.

Jack coordinated with the U.S. Transportation Command to advise a plan to interface up to 87 sorties providing personnel and equipment for both orbiter turnaround and bare base support; thereby streamlining Space Shuttle contingency operations. Jack’s most cherished award is the Astronauts’ Personal Achievement (Silver Snoopy) award. It is NASA’s highest honor bestowed on individuals who have performed an outstanding effort contributing to the success of manned space flight missions. Following his 20 years’ retirement from the Air Force in 1995, he was a Program Manager at Sverdrup at Cape Canaveral Air Force Station. He had most recently worked as a Systems Engineer at Tybrin Corporation, a high-technology corporation specializing in providing systems and software engineering services to the Department of Defense, NASA, and other federal and state government organizations. He had also been taking courses at the Florida Institute of Technology to obtain a Doctor of Philosophy Degree in Science Education.

Though Jack was dedicated to his work, his undying devotion belonged to his wife of 28 years, Sun, whom he met and married in Korea in 1976. They had a son, Benjamin, in March 1984; who is now in college, majoring in Computer Engineering. Jack shared more than his vast mathematical knowledge and love of music with Ben; he gave him an example of what it is to be a true Christian. He was always extending a helping hand and a caring heart to anyone in need.

Before Jack died, he told me that the only regret he had was that he had not spread the word of Jesus Christ, Our Lord, more during his lifetime. Well, I am writing this to say that he certainly DID speak of our Lord to me a lot! I only knew Jack for a very short four years, through our workplace. But, he always spoke to me, whenever he could, about God. I will never forget the day that he quietly held me in his arms as we both wept great tears of joy. It was the very moment that I had accepted Jesus Christ back into my life! Even during his illness, there were times that he was so weak that he could barely speak, but he would always say “God Bless you” or “God is Great!” His family and friends know, beyond any shadow of a doubt, that he was truly a devout Christian; and I will be eternally grateful to him. (In loving memory, Jack’s sister in Christ, Poucette French Duggan.)

John J. Boria, ’98

John “JB”, as his friends call him, was born Aug. 12, 1975 in Lakeland, Fla. He graduated from Union High School in Tulsa, Okla. in May 1993. That summer he entered the USAF Prep School where he turned 18 years old during basic training. At the Prep School “JB” met some of his best friends, whom he called “A band of brothers”.

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

www.usafa.org

LarryMerideth

Jack Kummerfeld

He went unto the U.S. Air Force Academy and graduated in May 27, 1998. John and his band of brothers had their graduation rings engraved with this scripture: Proverbs 18:24 “A man that hath friends must shew himself friendly: and there is a friend that sticketh closer than a brother. KJV”.

“JB” went into pilot training, at Vance Air Force Base in Enid, Okla. He received his wings and accomplished his heart desire to become a United States Air Force pilot. He graduated in Oct. 1999. “JB” was assigned to Grand Forks Air Force Base in North Dakota on March 31, 2000. Captain Boria served the Air Force and his country as a wing flight scheduler and a KC-135 R/T Stratotanker instructor pilot at the 911 th ARS. As an instructor pilot, Captain Boria was responsible for training and assessing crew mem-

OBITUARYPOLICYEXPLAINED

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 the obituary or a death notice 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 or death notice appears. When the one-year membership expires, we invite the next-of-kin to join as a regular associate member if she/he desires.

Life membership dues are not transferable to the graduate’s spouse, unless the life membership was joint, in which case it does transfer to the spouse. However, if the life member has purchased the “survivorship” option for their spouse, then their spouse can exercise member benefits until their own death. If you wish to add “survivorship” to your life membership, contact our membership department for details and prices.

Col. Jabara’s Widow Dies

The AOG has been informed by Jim Jabara, Col. James Jabara’s son, that Mrs. Nina Kepple (Jabara), the colonel’s widow, died on Feb. 19, 2005 after a long illness. Mrs. Kepple was instrumental in establishing the Col. James Jabara Award, presented annually by the AOG and the Academy to the Academy graduate whose contributions in actions directly associated with an aerospace vehicle or component are of such significance as to set them apart from their contemporaries. Col. Jabara was America's first jet ace and second leading ace in the Korean War.

bers’ abilities to safely conduct air refueling and logistics support missions in all weather conditions.

Captain Boria was a veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, Enduring Freedom, Noble Eagle, Northern Watch, and Southern Watch. He was the recipient of the Air Medal with two oak leaf clusters and the Air Force Commendation Medal with one oak leaf cluster. He was also named the 319th Operations Support Squadron Scheduler of the year (2003).

“JB” was an earnest Christian man who lived out his beliefs. He loved the outdoors and wide open spaces. Whether soaring above the clouds on his KC 135 or playing basketball with a group of friends or his brother Joey. “JB” loved his Oklahoma Sooners football team. John lived life to the fullest; it was all good with him. John inherited his zeal for life from his mother and his love of flying from his father. John and his only brother, Joey, were close and best friends. He was a good mentor to his younger brother.

John’s earthly body is gone now, but his presence is all around us. Fly on Captain John Boria on your ultimate adventure in heaven. We salute you and thank you for making our lives better having known you.

Captain John Javier “JB” Boria Beloved son of John and Wanda and brother Joey. Loved by all his extended family, family friends and all his USAF brothers and sisters. Went home to be with his Lord and Savior in Doha, Qatar, on Sept. 6, 2004, after suffering injuries as a result of a freak all terrain vehicle accident. John was enjoying life while riding his ATV across the desert of Doha, Qatar. Tributes to Capt. Boria can be seen or written at www.mem.com. (His family)

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

Mr. Gerard B. Finneran, Class of 1959 who died on Dec. 29, 2004 in Connecticut from Alzheimer's Disease.

Lt. Col. (Ret) Roger E. Schemenaur, Class of 1959, who died on Jan 29, 2005 in Fort Worth, Texas of esophageal cancer.

Mr. George E. Kern, Class of 1963, who died on Oct. 26,2004 in Allentown, Pa. after a long illness.

Mr. Ronald G. Bliss, Class of 1964, who died on Feb. 8, 2005 in Houston, Texas of cancer.

Mr. Kenneth H. Little, Class of 1969, who died on Jan. 27, 2005 in his sleep in Washington, D.C.

Lt. Col. (Ret) John M. Bruckner (Deason), Class of 1973, who died on Oct. 30, 2004 in Utah of cancer.

Lt. Col. (Ret) Merritt J. Brown, Class of 1974, who died on Jan. 27, 2005 in Herndon, Va. of cancer.

Mr. Stephen Holland, Class of 1974, who died on Oct. 29, 2004 in Las Vegas, Nev.

Lt. Col. (Ret) William F. Thompson, Class of 1975, who died on Feb. 4, 2005 in Universal City, Texas of cancer.

Mr. Richard R. Horning, Class of 1979, who died on Jan. 9, 2005 in Peachtree City, Ga. of cancer.

Mr. Lee R. Carson, Class of 1981, who died on Jan. 6, 2005 in San Jose, Calif.

Ms. Jane M. Mengel, Class of 1982, who died on Feb. 9, 2005 in Modesto, Calif.

Capt. (RetMed) James G. Evans, Class of 1984, who died on Jan. 25, 2005 in Ogden, Utah of brain cancer.

Capt. (USA) Gilbert A. Munoz, Class of 1998, who died on Feb. 9, 2005 in Fayetteville, N.C.

1st Lt. (RetMed) Daniel S. Bradford, Class of2001, who died on Feb. 3, 2005 in Crescent City, Calif, of brain cancer.

C4C Edward J. Schmeltz, Class of 2008, who died on Jan. 31, 2005 at the Air Force Academy after collapsing following a physical fitness test.

Our sincere condolences to the family and friends of these graduates and cadet.

Class

NEWS

1250 Big Valley Drive Colorado Springs, CO 80919-1015

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

E-mail: petetodd@adelphia.net

A largecontingent (over 10% ofthe Class, most ofthemwith their ladies) gathered in upstate NewYork for theAir Force/Armyfootball game in November. The Falcons took out their frustration over their last-second loss to Navy in September and won a tight game against a spirited and improving West Point team. Pre- andpost-game activities includedlunch at the Culinary Institute ofAmerica, tour ofHydePark, excellent dinner at a local restaurant (Friday) and subs, beverage alcohol and good conversation co-minglingin the hospitalitysuite (Saturday).

Ohio, visitedMar’s familyandfriends inWisconsin, etc.Wehad a greattrip, but it is nice to be home for a while.

“We bought a brand new gorgeous big home in Prescott, AZ. We are supposed to close nextweekand we willbe starting to move little things over next month.We probablywon’t get there permanentlyuntil this house sells and we aren’t reallyin anyhurry to list it, as the market is slow right now.

“It is a 3,527 sq ft housewith a three-cargarage and we are having an RVgarage built as well, withmyobservatory on top ofit. Ithas everythingandthe cabinets, etc. are knottyhickory and the doors are all knotty alder. Every room has a ceiling fanandallthe rooms, hallways, etc. havelighted“potshelves”. Allthe rooms are huge,includingthelaundryroom. Thewalkin closetis aboutthe size ofour current extra bedrooms.We’re probablygoing to have to put a table or something in the middle ofthe bathroom, it is so big. It has no outside maintenance with desert landscaping. It is on alittle2.3-acre hill and we have a 360°view.Weweren’tlooking; we werejust visitingfriends and fell in love with this house. IfI can ever figure out howto lower the resolution on the pictures I have, we’ll sendyou some.”

Tom Stackwrote thatthey are settlinginto their new Georgiahome. He sent a couple ofphotos ofthe place as well as shots ofthe Ferrari he built. (See the web version ofthe column for home photos and the car in brilliant color.)

wrote, “Wehavejustreturnedfrom a 3 '/2-month trip. We attended several RVrallies, went to my 50th high school reunion in

Eatyourheart out.

Tom writes, “The Savannahplace is backedup to themarsh next to theJericho River. So far, the riverhasn’tbacked up beyond the marshlandand into the backyard, despite the sundryhurricanes thathave bmshed past so no aliigators or egrets in the backyard as far as I know. Savannah is a neat old town and, although the house is much smallerthan the NC place, there’s still room forvisitingfirepersons and the price is right.

As usual, I’ve been able to mine the Christmas cards for a number ofnews items from far andwide:

Bob and Donna Beckel are in the UnitedArab Emirates until earlyspring. Bob is consulting on ajob that involves upgrading theirAirForce High School and perhapsadding a unified ServiceAcademy. Both ofthem are adjusting to and enjoyingthe manyculturalvariations.

Jim and Carol West are feeling more settled in their adobe casa. They are also beginning to travel again afterthe 18 months it took to build theirhouse. In November, theywent on their first Elderhostel trip, travelingwith a group of seniors to Mexico. Theygive these tours high marks: “We highly recommend them. They offer greatvalue, lots ofinteresting instructors and a fun group ofseniors.”

HT johnson, the Class of'59’svery own EnergizerBunny, quicklybreached his plannedthree days aweek as a SeniorFellowat IDAand hasbecome a busy full-timer. Linda got a very special present when their USMC son, Richard, home safely from his second tour in Iraq, was promoted to colonel on her birthday. The accompanyingphoto includes all but one ofthe familypresent for the promotion ceremony.

Pete Todd

’59ers at theVictoryCelebration. In thefrontrowfromleftare Fred Wynn and JimmieJay;secondrow: R.L. Penn, DickGoetze,Jim Connally, Pete Todd; back row: EdJosephson, JoeDeSantis, Don Livingston, KentMontavon, JoeMorgan, Ron Lanman, Ed Montgomery, John Miltner, Wayne Jefferson, Mike Reardon, HTJohnson andDougGrafflin.

DickTraceydropped me a note in November about a longtrip and an “impulsebuying” experience. He

Bob and Marie Jennings have also been on the move. In addition to marrying offtheir daughterSherylin D.C. (on their own 45th weddinganniversary!), theyfound time to travel to Mazatlan, Mexico, for a relaxing, funweekwith Bob and Carolyn Hurley. In October, they flew to Spain and Portugal with Larryand CarolThomson. Theyspent31/2weeks touringmuch ofthe southera portion ofthe Iberian Peninsula. The report: “Good sights, good food and GREATwine!”

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Steve and Patty Hamer continue to extend theirlead in the “Grandpa and NannySweepstakes,” reporting that grandbaby# 22 is due in May!

Herm Gilster, our resident seniorATO in the Springs, raised an interesting question recently. He reported, “I recently received an e-mail from myWest Point Class. It contained awebsitewith some oftheunique songs ofWestPoint. This made we wonderwhyafter 50years, to myknowledge, therehave been no unique AFA songs. The standardAir Force song (alongwith theAlma Mater) predated theAFA.

“Maybe as a project for the 50th Reunion, the Class could take this on and develop a uniqueAFAsong or two.YouhavemusicaltalentslikeJimmieJay,who could make a major contribution to such an effort.”What sayye bards inblue?

Finally, theAOG has asked all scribes to urge their classmates to vote in the upcomingAOG election ofits Board ofDirectors. Check out theirnewwebsite atwww.usafa.org.

Thoughtforthe Quarter:The DopelerEffect—the tendencyofstupid ideas to seem smarter when they come atyou rapidly.

A.J. (Rosie) Cler, Jr.

214 Poppy St. Golden, CO 80401-5544

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

E-mail: RCtherose@aol.com

Class Web Site: www.usafa.net/1960

“Ah, butIwas so much olderthen, I'myoungerthan thatnow" (BobDylan). Strangeboding, but that could be each ofus reflecting on The WayWe Were” back in 1960 “Before weleft theseportals, to meetlessfortunatemortals” (Cole Porter) and how we look nowas we close in on our 45th Reunion this June. More later...

The photo’s taken in Columbia, SC on the 17th ofOctober, 2004, when Miles and Charlotte Kaspar ofFullerton, CA stopped for a few days with Tom and Carole SeebodeofHopkins, SC and Bill and IrmaJeanne CurrierofGilbert, SC. Tom and Bill served in theANG together, and Bill and Miles were roommates.

Bill, Irma,Tom, Charlotte, Miles and Carole I first read about it in the airline magazine on a plane as Karen and I were flying to California, again in USAToday, then Time (Sept. 20,2004), and in the Smithsonian Magazine (September 2004), Newsweek, the DenverPost, and others—everytabloid I picked up featured a story on Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian. Then, as if serendipity had struck, Jean Walbridge e-mailed me about the trip she andhusbandJamesWalterClark, Jr. ofFt. Worth, TX, were on for the museum’s opening the 21 st ofSeptember. “Jim

and I are having a fantastic time inWashington, DC,” wroteJean. “We’restaying withJim’s daughter Rachelwho is an attorneyforoneofthose hugeWashington lawfirms, Gibson, Dunn and Crutcher. Spending our days at the Museum oftheAmerican Indian going to opening activities, seeing Indians in native costumes, dances, etc. The rest ofour trip will be spent at Jim’s son’s house in Esopus, NY—we’re also going to theTCU-Armygame atWest Point.”

And now, back to those fleet-footed fellows The Boysfrom Iowa —our youthful stalwartswho heeded Horace Greeley’s advice to go west. Bottom of the 6th George Emerson Elsea at bat: “I confess to being a part-time Iowan. While myfatherworkedin his civilianjob with the Soil Conservation Service, I lived in Iowa. When my father was on active dutywith the ArmyCorps of Engineers, I lived inVirginia, Louisiana, Missouri, North Carolina, Guam, and Washington—some ofthem more than once. I was in Iowa ages 0-3 (born in Shenandoah, went to Red Oak),8-11 (Clarion), and 16-18 in Sioux City, graduating from Central High—Doug Rekenthaler attended Sioux City East and graduated a year earlier. Doug and I traveled together to OffuttAFB where we tookthe tests fortheAcademy; that’s alsowhere I met DonWolfswinkel (he and Doug were college guys, and prettyimpressive). I also traveled on the train with Doug and Don to Denver in July 1956.

“One ofthe highlights ofpilottraining atWilliams was looking forlost gold caches in the mountains and a cave in Arizona with Rekenthaler, Brush and Love. We didn’t find gold, but I still keep an eye out. In 1963, Mike Loveand two others stationed at RAF Lakenheath and I bought a deHavillandTigerMoth, a ’30’s and ’40's era open cockpitbiplane trainer.While flyingit aroundthe UKon leave, I was weatheredinatInverness, Scotland, where I met myfuturewife, Evelyn. Some three years laterMike Love and Mike Hydetraveled to Invernesswith our boss, ChiefofWing Stan Eval and their wives to attend the wedding. I booked them into a hotel no booze in Edinburgh on theirwaynorth. I suspectitwas MikeHydewho tookrevenge for the bookinginto a Temperance hotel byflingingthe ignition rotor from our honeymoon car into the River Ness.

“Mike Love and I bought out the shares in the airplane from the others as they rotated from Lakenheath. We enjoyed getting it back to the U.S., reassembled and flown, after our tours inVietnam. Mike’s sons learned to fly in the airplane and I’m still flyingit a couple oftimes a month, maintainingcurrency just in case I’m recalled bytheAir Force.

TheAir Force ColdWar careerwent byfast, with fouryears ofnuclear alert, two years oflive fire SEAflying, two years ofair defense in Europe, a couple of years ofglider instruction at theAcademy, and a bunch ofassorted desktype work. Afterretiringfrom active duty I consulted for a shorttime for the House Appropriations Committee while lookingforhonestwork. Electronic Data SystemsCorporation (EDS) hired me to do assorted deskwork in the D.C. area. Oneofthehighlightsofthat assignment was thefellowship with the otherClass of’60 folks—our daughter is still amazed by a partywe hosted: All 34 guests arrived at our house within three minutes ofthe 1900 start time!

“After I retired from EDS, Evelyn and I tookstock.We were inVirginia, daughterMerran’sfamilywas inSeattle (she andherhusband graduatedfrom Radford University inVirginia, and both work for Microsoft: children Duncan, 4; Fiona, 2); and, our son Roylives inTexas, graduated fromTexasTech and is an ElementarySchoolTeacher, has two sons: Alexander, 7; Hunter, 5. Her parents were in Scotland and mine in Arizona. Evelyn found a conveniently located fixer-upper house at the same time our first grandchildappeared inTexas; it’s a stone structure located in Scodand, 100+ years old, originallyquartered the farmworkers on an estate. So, our retirement scheme is to live the coolerpart ofthe year in Texas (two grandsons) and the warmer part ofthe year in the Scottish Highlands.AndSeattle is always fun to visit (one grandson, one granddaughter). No shoveling Iowa snow.” Bottom ofthe 8th

Some guys are pretty smart. And, like the ‘EnergizerBunny,’justkeep tickin’. Fred Porter’s BOTH, and sincelastfall hasbeen teachingAeronautics fulltime at theAcademy. (Hetaughtthere 25years ago—’76to’80—andMaryLou said the cadets then thoughthe was ‘reallyold. I wonderwhat theycall him now?) Fred also teaches several classes a year at NASA Dryden in California, and continues teaching a ComputerScience class at Colorado Tech. On a trip back to California, a NASAstudent tookboth Porters to Edwards (where Fred was assigned from ’67 to ’71, and 73 to’75) foraglimpse oftheX-43 Scramjet: “It’s 12’ longwith4’ span, black, perched on the nose ofa Pegasusrocket, the combo launched from the B-52 mother ship. The Pegasus got it to Mach 6, theX-43’s engine lit off, and the ship accelerated to Mach 10. It’s an air-breathingengine, so ithas to flylow, 110,000 feet or so. The significant achievement was supersonic combustion, something we have never done before in an air-breathing engine. Ten miles away at Mojave, we saw Space Ship One flying its’ second

Jean andJim Clark at the Museum oftheAmerican Indian.

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flight. Solid rocket engineusingNitrous Oxide gas forthe oxidizer throtded by the pilot.” (R: I asked Fred to explain"Weight Specific Excess Power." On his “quick” answer of300+ words, I was doingOK, right up to “WSEP is... ”)

Fred waxingabout thingsonlyMikeLoh would understand! (Weinterrupt this Op-Edforan importantPublicServiceAnnouncement from ourSponsor:Allofourclassmates are urged to votein the upcomingAOG Boardelection. Andcheck out the newAOGsite at www. usafa.org. We now return to ourregularprogramming.)

45lh Reunion. Circle yourwagons and your calendars for 14-19 June 2005. Don’t be one ofthe booboisie’ bynot attending—right now, we need a count ofthose coming, so HONKifyou’ll be there. (Warning: Bin Laden crawled out ofhis rat hole lastweek to saythat our reunion mightbe targeted, whatwith our incredible BrainTrust beingthere; so, I’ve raised the alertlevelfromFuchsia to Pink.) Questions? Contact Class President Andi Biancur at 2Biancurs@Adelphia.net:Tell him you’ve got the moxie and the moolah for that“Little Slice ofHeaven” when we celebrate 45 years ofbliss since graduating. Remember: There ain’t no “Do-Over” if you don’t make it to this Reunion.. .so give me a HONK! Hallelujah.

Final Roll Call. DenisWalsh’swife, Elizabeth, died Feb 8,2005 fromleukemia.

Earl N. “Nelson” O’Rear 50582 Stonington Drive Granger, IN 46530-8243

H: (574) 273-2597

E-mail: ENOandTJO@ameritech.net

Class Web Site: www.usafal961.info

Check out the newAOGweb site at www.usafa.orgifyou have not already done so. Also, please vote in the upcomingAOG Board election and also updateyoure-mail address andbiographywith theAOG. Now, classmate news.

Bob Best is still travelingto Jamaica about aweekeverymonth, but he thinks he can see an end to that project, forwhich he is thankful. When not there, he spends a great deal oftime inArkansas with the companythathe started there about three years ago. After their last remainingchild at home goes to college next fall, Cathyand Bob plan to start building a new home in northernArkansas (or furtherwest). It doesn’t appear that retirement is anytime soon. Life is full and good for them.

Doug Cairns said that their son Rob (anArmyLTC) is now stationed at the NATO Headquarters in Naples, Italy.What a greatplace to “have to” go to visit their grandchildren. Ofcourse theydid and had a great Christmas vacation, Neapolitanstyle.

Dick Davis visited his children and grandchildren in the great state ofTexas over the holidays.

Judyand Gene Davis had a wonderful Christmas and holiday season. Judy’s mother, Janet Russell, who hosted numerous cadets in their home in Colorado Springs in our day, visited from San Diego. Judy’s Dad, Rusty, was the landscape architect for theAcademy, in charge ofthe diggers and Fillers. The Davises’ daughter, her husband, and their three sons moved to Melbourne, FL, about five miles from Gene andJudy. Gene went to Colorado Springs after Christmas to meet his son Chris (’85), daughter-in-law, Robbi (’85), and his four grandchildren. With four hurricanes, a presidential race, and a hip operation, 2004 was challengingin Florida. Judyand Gene lookfor a much calmer 2005 and wish the same for all our classmates and theirfamilies.

Dorothy and Jerry Gill went to New Zealand and Australia for 18 days in January. From Auckland they traveled on a small boat (Clipper Odyssey) around the islands with stops at major cities and points ofinterest. Next was Sydney for four days. Hopefully, theyencountered no tsunamis.

Wayne and Mary Jones flew to Denver NewYear’s Eve and joined Jo and Dean and theirchildren and grandchildren for a fun party at theirhouse. They watched the fireworks traditionallyfired offPikes Peak at midnight. Since they were at 10,000 feet, theyhad a close-up view. Jo and Dean then hosted a ’61 dinner party at Marvinicci’s, a new supperclub in Colorado Springs. Attending were the Conleys, Coppocks, Cuberos, Ellers, Harings, McCues, Neels,

Saunderses, Storms, andWayne and Mary. Theyenjoyed fine food and their usual greatsocializing. Dean said they are indeed fortunate to have so many close friends so near. After Dean sent this message, he and Jo were driving to Breckenridge to get in some serious skiing the next few days. Eight inches of fresh powder!

Lowell Jones reports that the D.C. GrayTags had another successful luncheon in December. Attending were: Charley Dixon, Bill Foster, Steve Ho, John Kohout, Lowell Jones, JackMcDonough, Jim Rogers, Bill Sanzenbacher, and Karl Whitaker. Terry Norris couldn’t make this luncheon but told Bill Sanzenbacherthathe’ll make the next one. Good stories from everyone. They toasted to the good health ofBill Foster and CharleyThomas (our heart patients) and alsoTerryNorris for his quickhealingfrom some skin cancer (not serious) treatments. Theyalso raised a glass to the memoryofNorm Campbell (losteightyears ago, November 18). The original lunch date was on that date before they had to reschedule.

At the beginning ofJanuary,Jerryand Sue Lefton departed forTucson. While inTucson theyplanned to make some othertrips, as well: to Kona Island on 27 Januaryfor a week; LasVegas on 13 Februaryforfive days; and to Palm Springs on 28 February for a week. They also hoped to see theArizonaWildcats play some basketball games inTucson.

SinceJerryMason no longerdrives a companycar, he had to registerhis own license plates in Arizona. He sent a picture ofhis new plates, with the identification on them reading, “USAFA61”. He wondered howmany others have similarlicense plates in their states. Within three days, three otherclassmates responded theyhave similar plates. How aboutyou?

JohnMayplans to retire as president ofAtlantic CapeCommunityCollege in NewJersey, effective the end ofJune. He and Sheilawill relocate to their vacation home on Bald Head Island in North Carolina. The O’Connors livejust across Cape Fear River from Bald Head Island, so the Mays and O’Connorswill consider starting the Brunswick County Chapter ofthe GrayTagbranch oftheAOG. In fact, theyheld the first meeting in October.

Don McCartersaid thatthishas been ayearinwhich many in Florida have much to be thankful for.Although the hurricanes hit them hard, all realize it could have been much worse. After all thatwind and rain, theysuffered only damage to their roof, which had to be replaced, and some spots on theirceilingwherewaterleaked in andhad to berepainted. Their roofwas finallyrepaired on Dec 17, which Don considered a birthday present, but a costly one with the deductible they had to pay. They are so thankful that the good Lord was watching over them in Orlando, because after surveying the damage to their area, they saw some heavydamage in the city. Don is having a lot offun working for a contractor supporting the Air Force Agency for Modeling and Simulation.

The excitement ofentering the next phase oflife is still high with Lee and Joanie McCleskey. Lee retired fromTexasA&M University on 31 Jan and both plan to enjoytheirnew-found freedom ofdoingwhattheychoose, when they want to do it. They are reallylookingforward to seeingthose scattered grandchildren more frequently than once or twice a year.

On 28 Jan, Terry Norris planned to go to Arcanum, OH, to be inducted into the Arcanum Hall ofFame, which his high school recently started. When I learned that, I had to pry more details fromTerry. Even though we went through pilottraining (where we were in the same car pool) and then survival training together, I knew none ofthis. He was one of 47 nominees, with two being inducted to bring theirtotal inductees to seven. Terrysaid that he thought it was due to being a gunner on his high school basketball team, which won the State Championship 50years ago. Otherfactors mayhavebeenthathepitched on their baseball team that went 25-1 and was the league dash champion in track. While he seems a bit embarrassedwith all the attention, it seems well deserved. Congratulations from all ofus, Terry!

Nelson andTeri O’Rear had a full house over Christmas. TheirAF son, Brian (’87), and his familyjoined them for a week from Alabama, where Brian is attendingAirWar College. (Does that make you feel as old as it does Nelson?) With their local son and his family, plus a granddaughterfromVirginia, 16 of them—including 10 grandchildren—frolickedthrough theirhouse and enjoyed outside sleddingand ice skatingfor about a week. Kevin, theirlocal son, set up driving a civilianversion ofthe Humvee on AM General’s 300+ acre test facility—muchofithillyand forested—for Nelson and Brian.Without beginning to describe all ofthe obstacles theyencountered, but driving for about two hours, Nelson can’t remember having so much fun for a long time. That vehicle has veryimpressive capabilities.

The Cairnses and Westbrooks celebrated their annual Christmas holiday dinnerwith Susan andJimmyPoole. Jimmysent a picture ofthethree couples, whichyou can view at our classweb site. Therewill NOT be a redneckreunion for 2005 as the beach area still is in a war zone mode. Since the fall of2006 will be our USAFA45th reunion, makeyourplans for a resumptionofthe Redneck celebration in October 2007.

Christmas was good for Bob Smith’s familythisyear. All three ofBob’s children, and one grandson from Michigan that Bob and Pat had not seen before, were on the west coast for the first time in about sixyears. Bob was elected

Sabre Society Donors

president ofthe board of two health care Joint Powers Agencies as well as president ofthe Health Care District. He was re-elected to the board in Novemberforthe seventh time. His health remains good, with no recurrence of the colon cancer offouryears ago.

JackTaylor sent a picture ofclassmates attending their pilottraining class reunion (63A, CraigAFB, AL’61-’62) inWashington, D.C., in Oct 2004. At our classweb sitewww.usafal961.info, you can see JackTaylor, Bill Sanzenbacher, John Kohout, and Pete Lane. Vic Apodaca was the fifth member ofthis class when theygraduated and was remembered throughout the reunion and duringtheirvisit to theVietnam Memorial, where his name is inscribed.

Charlie Thomas said that his big news is his successful heart surgery—six hoursworth—whichreplaced a section ofhis aorta and the aorticvalve. (His surgery was on Oct 28th and he was out ofthe hospital a week later.) He is recoveringfine, and went back to work on Jan 3rd The supportby ’61 during andaftersurgerywas terrific. WayneHaring, and Charlie andIindaNeel even madevisits to thehouse.Thanks to allforthevisits, calls, andcards. Ginaand Charlie were planning a cruise in earlyFebruary to the Caribbean. Theywere to leavefrom SanJuan on theRadisson Diamondforfive days. InJune, they are renting a beach house in CapeMay, NJ, for a familyreunion with theirthree children and three grandchildren. This Octobertheymayalso take a French canal trip to celebrate their 40th anniversary. Charlie currentlyplans to retire this summer to allow more time for familyand travel.

Jim and JudyTulis said thatJohn and Kathy Dates stoppedbyO’Fallon, IL, to see them on their return from a visit to John’s family in upstate NewYork. They were able to have dinnerwithJohn and Sherry Moore duringtheirstay. Everyone had a great time reminiscingand tellingstories.

Thanks to everyonewho contributed. We all enjoyhearingwhatishappeninginyourlives. Ifyoudid not contributethistime, pleaseseriouslyconsider doing so in March.

John W. “Jack” Jamba

4 Judy Court

\ ' Satellite Beach, FL 32937

H: (321) 777-5520 0: (321) 861-6279

'y * ;V Cell: (321) 432-1370

[

HiRedtags,

E-Mail: jwjamba@aol.com

Well, the fence around myhouse that was knocked down bythe hurricanes is beingreplaced thisweek, 7 Jan. It will take a while before things are back to normal. Speaking about back to normal, the new External Tank arrived at KennedySpace Center as did some other space hardware.We are back in the business ofputtingSpace Shuttles togetherand preparingthem for launch. If we meet all deadlines and no major hits arise, we’ll launch in May.

Let’s start with an update from Jack Swonson. "Just a note to letyou know we’re alive and well in Phoenix. PollyAnn and I will drive to Pasadena for the Tournament ofRoses Parade thisweekend. SonJackwill retire from theTexas ANG this next year (can’t believe how time flies by). Fred Fiedler and I are workingtogether on a capitalcampaign for Project ChalleNGe, a bootcamptypeprogram operatedbythe NationalGuard to getwayward teens back on track, earn a diploma and get into college, the militaryand/or theworkforce. I playedgolflastweekwithTed Hopkins (classof’60), Hoppy’s (BobHopkins) brother, who lives in Scottsdale. Doesn’t understand whyfloppyand I haven’t retired yet. I’m stillheadingthe USAAPhoenixOffice; we celebrated the grand opening ofthe permanent campus last month and went over the 2,000-employee mark. I’m planning to ski a fewdays in JanuarywithJim Gallagherand several other RedTags.They’ve had terrific snow this season; should be great fun.” Thanks for the news, Jack. Enjoythe ski holiday.

Got an email from Paul Landers. “As you may remember, I retired from Amway/Alticor, and we moved to Tyler, TXwhere we were building a home on a lot we owned at Eagle’s BluffCountryClub. I was offered the chance to head theAirTransportation Office forFord Motor Company.Theyhave some jets at the DetroitAirport, and several in London, England. It was too good to pass up, so JoAnne and I have locked up theTexas home and are livingin Dearborn, MI. Thejob is interestingand it’s greatbeing around airplanes. (I once said to someone in passingthataviation was myfirstlove. JoAnne corrected me right away.)When I retire forthethird time, we willreturn toTexas; in the meantime, we are havinganother adventure and enjoying life. Hope all is well with the Jambas. I sympathize with your plight with hurricanes, as described in the last Checkpoints. I hope you are now immune for a number of years. Paul.” Thanks, Paul, for the news. Sounds like a great job. Enjoy! Now a word or two from GeorgeThompson. “I have retired from my Headmaster position and plan to return to teachingin Russia at the PskovVolnyInstitute, where I was for most ofthe ’90s. I will leave the U.S. around Christmas and return in June. Meanwhile, I am playingbridge aboutthree times a week, singingbarbershop and generallyenjoyingNOT being on duty24/7! I followthe news, especially of USAFA, and regularly read and correspond on the Blathernet. Coli (Richardson) has reallyprovided a great service for those ofus who want to take the time. Haven’t seen anybodybut Robbie (WarrenRobbins), who’s still pushingreal estate inSeattle. He’sgettingoldandgreywhile I remainmyyouthful self(except forthe replacedhips, creeping arthritis and short-term memory loss.) Cheers Jack!” Thanks forthe news. Good luck on your return to Russia. Let me knowifyou can arrange one ofthose group trips to Russiasuch as you mentioned two years ago.

And I got an update fromRandySchamberger.You mayrememberfromthe last Checkpoints, that Randyhad surgeryto reattach a bicep tendon and heart surgery for calcification in his aorta.

Afterthose two adventures, he survived the onslaughtofthe hurricaneswith verylittle damage. Here’s the continuation ofhis story. “I finallyhad the chance to beginplayingtennis on the 6th ofOctober. Two days later I was in the emergency room at the EglinAFB Hospital for an emergencyappendectomy! I had complicationsfollowingthe surgerywheremyintestines shut down. I was put on IVand had a stomachtube inserted. What a horrible experience thatwas! I would choose 10 heart valve replacements before I would undergo that procedure again. After the tube was removed I was given a liquid diet which I tolerated so I was givenpermission to eat a regularmealforlunch. Guesswhat? It was Mexican Lunch Dayat the hospital! Well, I ate about 2/3 ofit and tolerated it, so they sent me home. At lasffBut I lost 10 pounds from the ordeal.” Randyis in good health and doingwell, having survived his year in hell.

Got some healthier news from Jim Gallagher. He talks about the ski week planned injust a couple ofweeks. Let’s read his words. “Hello Redtag skiers. We currently have an 80” base and 237" total snowfall. That’s outstandingfor this time oftheyear. We skiedWednesdayin a blizzard and then it suddenly warmed up and I skied in shorts the next day. I’ve skied 22 days thisyear. Utah is a greatplace to retire! Howgood is it?Well, one ofmyfriends shot a deer in the morning, did a little fishing, played 18 holes ofgolf, and still had time to shoot some ducks in the late afternoon. Just getyour reservations in to the Crystal Inn and make your plans to be here the week after Presidents’ Day.” Thanks, Jim. Tune in next issue for the next chapter ofthis excitingsaga.

Nowthelatestfrom Sam Define. He sure knowshowto write publicityscript to catch attention. “Sam’s band reached the 800 concert plateau in 2004: The TooWildYankees Bandputs the ‘D’ in Dance... with high-fallutin’ rootin’ tootin’ singalongnumbers thathave a rockabillysound alltheir own. Fromtheunique semi-twangvocal-stylings oflead singerand guitarplayer‘Singing’ Sammyto the equally talented heart-throbbing beat ofnational champion ‘Indiana’ TommyClark’s harmonica, whistling, and Djembe drum. These two entertainmentvirtuosos takethe audience on a ridefromCountry... to Rock n Roll... to Patriotic... to SundayGo-to-Meeting songs... that literally force young and old audiences to singalong, tap theirtoes, andtwiddle theirfingers.” Thanks for thosewords. Great stuff, Sam.

Next comes a fewthoughts from ButchViccellio. “Sumo... hope you guys had a great Christmas. 2005 promises to be a biggie for us, as we are going to hang it up here at USAA in Feb and relocate in May to the retirement spot on Bainbridge Isle,WA, we purchased forthis purpose 26 years ago! Along time coming, but NO MORTGAGE! Anyway, one lingeringthing I am doingis hosting a USAA cruise in August around the British Isles... Wales, GB, Scotland, Ireland... 13 days or so, leavingfrom Copenhagen.We are goingto attend the Tattoo ceremony at Edinburgcastle, etc. For those who might be interested, contact me. PS: Reallyhope theJambas could come... Butch. “Ifhe can get a class address list, youwill all probablyhave gotten an invitation bythe time youread this. Ifinterested, contact Butch directly. Goodluck on the retirement toWashington.

Heard fromTom Moore. He andVirginiawent on a tour in June around the Pacific Rim. See picture ofthem in Cambodia. The kids are doingwell and life seems to be cheery.

From our40th Reunion:Jean Blaisdellenjoyinga moment with Gretchen andBohMcNaughton.

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VirginiaandTomMoore visitAngkorWat, Cambodia, on a recentPacific tour.

Heardalsofrom Billand SueHaugen.Theymade severaltripsthisyeararound the country to see friends and relatives. Bill is still enjoyingbeing a docent at the newAir & Space Museum. Larry and Penny Gooch went on the Redtag cruise in the summer. Larry is almost fully retired and Pennyis still involved with quilting. Theytraveled a lot, too. Owen & Connie Hawkins spent a lot of time on campertrips around the FarWest. Theyalso arranged a familyvacation on Maui. (See picture). More campingtrips are planned.

Owen and ConnieHawkins (farright, sitting) vacation with three sons, one daughter, two daughters-in-lawand threegrandkids.

Willie and NancyGraydid lots oftravel to MontereyBay (on Son-in-law’s sailboat), Minnesota, LasVegas and otherpoints.Nancystill teaches parttime and does quilting. Charlie and MaryJo Price are well-adjusted retirees. Charlie has a new S-2000 Honda sports car. It carries his golfclubs. MaryJo does church workandplentyofbridge.John andJudyDinsmorealso havelots ofgrandkids to spoil.Johnis buildingsuperintendentforhis church andJudyloves quilting.

Well, thatwraps it up foranother issue. Keep the letters and emails coming. GoRedtags! Jack

Norman I. (Skip) Lee

63119 E. Cat Claw Lane Tucson, AZ 85739-2056

Home: (520) 825-7980

E-mail: 54wrs@msn.com or lindaandskip@robsoncom.net

In earlyNovember we were notified bytheAOG ofthe passing ofanotherof our classmates. George E. Kern died after a long illness on October 26th in Allentown, PA. Condolences maybe sent to the family: Mrs. Ellen Kern 2234 Mack Blvd.,Allentown, PA 18103-5624.

We were also informed ofthe death ofanother member ofthe Class of 1963 family: Johnnie Hall’s wife, Jo Ann Dorris Hall, passed awayNov 14th and was buried at USAFA. According to Johnnie, she succumbed to metastatic breast cancer. Johnnie wrote to express his appreciation to members of ’63 who knewofherpassing and were able to attend the services. Johnnie wrote that “... as I approached the grave site I was overwhelmed bythe sight ofthe class flags carried by Everett and Susan Vaughn, Bob Hayes, andJimmie Butler. A specialthanks to them. JoAnn and I were married on June 6th 1963 andshehas now returned to her mountains.

Afewrosy-cheekedfaces at themini-reunion.

Everyone’s a little bundled up, so here are the names that go with the rosycheeked faces. Front Row: Tim Gallagher; Bob

Bill Ball, and Gordon Bredvik.

Bill

JimGaston, BryanCary, andSteve

Jimmie saidBob Donovanjoined us at thegame and up in theAOG, we hadJohn Helinski, Ken Kopke, andJerry McClellan, and perhaps one or two more. Afterward we had a meaningful ceremony in the turning over ofsixclass cups for Bill Bryant, HenryHorton, George Kern, HarryMurk, Bert Reinstein, and Roger Sims. A bit ofa somber reminder: Last year at our 40-year reunion, we honored 63 classmates who had died inthose40years. Thisyearwe recognizedsix, which was ajump over the normal one or two per year over the last several years. So take care of yourselves out there.

Thanks to Bill Ball, Bob Hayes, Jim Gaston, and Drue Deberry for their efforts in makingthisyear’sgathering come offandbe a success. Jimmie added hewouldn’t comment about us apparentlyneedingfourguys to replace Butch Verdier, who normallywrangled these mini-reunions, with a little help from his friends. Agoodtime was hadbyall, and I thinkwe agreed to trythis again about the same time next year at theArmy game. Some voted for September, but some ofus reminded the crowd ofa rathersignificant snow storm at USAFAlate in September 1959.

Wewere recentlyaskedwhythe Class Cups are turnedeach yearsince we have thefive-yearClass CupCeremonyat each major reunion. Most ofyou knowthatthroughJim Gaston’s efforts the cups now reside in a beautiful cabinetin the office oftheAOG CEO. Nowthatthe cups are displayed, it seemed appropriate to manyofour Classmates to turn cups eachyearinstead ofleaving a cup uprightforup to fiveyears afterthe passingofa classmate. Us locals, and anyone else in town for the home game with eitherArmy or Navy each year (unless theyplay at night) normallyhave a mini-reunion on thatweekend. Following the game, at Doolittle Hall, a Class CupTurningCeremonyis conducted. Eachyear a classmate is designated to make some remarks about each ofthe six. This is a nicewayto spend a litde more time on each classmate than we’re able to do at the five-yearwith many more to recognizeby name. When we gatheragain in 2008, the ceremony in the chapel will include the final turningofthe cups ofthosewho have passed between 2003 and 2008. It is important to note that the toast usingCognac, graciouslyprovidedbyJohn Borling, does not take place at these annual ceremonies; that is reserved for the five-Year gathering. Manythanks to Jimmie for these inputs.

Thefollowingis from an e-mail fromTom Deriegwelcoming me toArizona. Peg andTom have lived in ParadiseValleyforthe past 10 years. Tom says they did not use theirArizona house much the past threeyears because they we were workingandlivingin Houston. Tom retiredagainin May. Theyalso have

Two ofour classmates are runningfor theAOGBoard: Tom Fryerand Mike Christy. You are encouraged vote in the upcomingAOG Board election. You are also encouraged to check out the newAOGweb site atwww.usafa.org.

Hayes,

SecondRow: JimmieButler, Drue Deberry,DennyKing,

Wecker,

Savonen.

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a cabin in McCall, Idaho and spend the summers there. It’s that summertime heat in the “Valleyofthe Sun.” He and Peg celebrated their 40th wedding anniversaries with Barb and ChiefNacrelli byrenting a house in Tuscany and touringItalyfor about threeweeks in October. The photo was taken in Santa Margheritawhile waitingfor a boat to Portofino.

Waitingfora boat toPortofino.

Tim and Roberta Gallagher have moved to Colorado probably old news but new to me. Tim says “We’re in a wonderful new home on the 14th tee ofthe Buffalo Run GolfCourse with a grand view ofthe front range ofthe northern Colorado Rockies—all theway toWyoming! AfterreadingTim’s note on the travelinghe and Roberta did lastyear, I have concluded they are not spending much time in their new home.

Here is some interesting information given me byLarryMcLaughlin: “Ifany ofthe rest ofyou hasjoined me withprostate cancer, andyou also served inViet Nam, theVA has now approvedcompensation based on possible exposure to Agent Orange, and a link between it and prostate cancer. I’mjustfiling the paperwork, so don’t knowall the detailsyet. Youwill need your DD Form 214 to go with your application.” Thanks, Larry.

At the end ofDecemberJimThyng sent a note expressinghis appreciation of the support shownbythe Class forthe Harrison ThyngMemorial project. The Memorial was dedicated on July 17thwith RonFogleman as thekeynotespeaker. The Class of 1963 will be named as a major contributor.

Thanks go to all ofyouforthe manyinputsyouhave made forthe Class News. Theymakepreparingthis column a lotoffun so keep them coming. Linda and I have reallybegun to settle in to our new home and new environment. The weather has been a little cool and stormyfor southernArizona this winterbut it hasn’tkept me awayfrom the golf course too much. The latest change in my life is a new friend, Molly, who is our son’s (David) two-year-old Golden Retriever. David’s company moved him and his family to Singapore for about threeyears and it was deemed too much to take Mollyalong. NowI get a couple ofwalks per daywhich seems to do me more good than it does Molly. That’s it forthis time—take care.

Bob Hovde

206 Walker Ave. Huntsville, AL 35801

(256) 532-3923 W: (256) 922-3705

Fax: (256) 895-9222

bob.hovde@earthlink.net

W: bhovde@camber.com

ClassHistoryProject: Matt Feiertag, Usto Schulz, and Bill Dickey (ClassHistoryCommittee) need help establishing contacts for each squadron. Ifthey contactyou to help,please considergiving a little bitofyourtime to assistthem.

Email: RayGreene sentword from London thatherecentlywas awarded the Meritorious Civilian Service Award by the ChiefofNaval Research for his work as Intellectual PropertyCounsel forthe Office ofNaval Research Global, London, England. Can you believe it? - Rayworking as a lawyerfor the Navy? Anyway, the citation pointed out that Ray set up cooperative relationships

with several research institutes in Russia - somethingthat had not been done before he gotpersonallyinvolved.

10th Squadron Newsletter: Nick Lacey was nice enough to send along a copyofthe annual 10th Squadron Christmas/NewYear’s Letter thathe revived thisyear.

Denny and MaryJo Montgomery are stillin Utah. Dennygot a new hip (second one) and says he is nowregularly “frisked and hassled” at airports. He and MaryJohavebeenspendingmostoftheirtimetravelingto Floridato see Siobhan, their 16-month-old granddaughter (theonlygood reason fortraveling!).

Jim and Sue Verstreate (still in Beavercreek, OH) managed a fewgolftrips and a trip to the Grand Canyon, butJim says theycan’t travel too muchbecause it interfereswith Sue’s grandchild-sitting commitments. Jimhas beenworking forModernTechnologiesCorporationfor 14 years and nowisworking as a test manager supportingthe C- 130J Program Office.With all ofthe travel thejob requires, he is tiring ofit and has decided to hang it up in 2005.

Kris and Lura Mineau (North Reading, MA) recentlywelcomed their 10th grandchild, Joshua. Theyrecentlyhad a family reunion in New Hampshire with four generations present. It’s quite a clan.

Kris has been busy the past year organizing a number ofthe Boston area churches to getinvolved in thebattle to amendthe Massachusetts constitution to define marriage as one man and one woman. He is the President ofthe Massachusetts FamilyInstitute, a public policyorganization that promotes Judeo-Christian familyvalues.

TerryandNancyIsaacson are still inTempe,AZ, wherehe stillworks forASU and Nancyworks forChanel. This maychangeshordy, since Terrysays thatspendingtime at theircabin intheWhiteMountains is beginning to dominate their thoughts. Meanwhile, Terry finished writing his second book, which should be published soon.

Thad andJillWolfe (Burke,VA) celebrated their40th AnniversarylastJunewith acruisefromSeattletoAlaskaandback.Thad remembers thatthepriest thatmarried them inJune ’64 told themthathe didn’treallyapprove ofsuchyoungmarriagesthattheyjustdidn’tlast! (Somuchforgoodadvice.)Thad’swork at SAICkeepshimbusyandhesayshestillenjoysit, even thoughheknowsitcan’t lastforever - but itkeepshim fromrearrangingthe dishesinJill’s kitchen.

Gabe and NancyFaimon (Auburn, KS) are awaitinggrandchild number 11 aboutApril 21 st (Doyou rememberwhen we counted flyinghours instead of grandchildren?) Gabe missed the reunion due to a long-standing commitment in his familyfor a yearly one weekvacation ending on the first Saturday ofeach October.

[Scribe Note: Maybe we need to work in some mini-reunions at different locations and times oftheyear. Eventually, I expect theAcademy to invite us backfor the “first ten years” reunion instead ofthe ’64 reunion.” We need to establish our game plan before theydecide it for us. ]

Steve andVirginia Croker (Chestertown, MD) managed to work in three weeks in Italythis year, where theytook a three-daycookingschool, toured all over, and took 486 photos. Just thinkwhat theycould have done ifthe dollar hadn’tbeen down so much! Steve spends a lot oftime on the road, helpingtrain various militaryunits and serving as a senior mentor for new general andflag officers. In his spare time, Steve gets outside and participates in birding. (IfI understoodwhat “life birds” and “endemic water birds” were, I’d explain it to you.)

Jim and Jessica Fleming (Orinda, CA) are giving up the “Fleming & Phillips LLP” law firm. All ofthe lawyers and secretarial staff are moving to another firm, Jim will cut back to about 1/3 and Jessica will fullyretire as soon as the taxreturns are in. Theyplan to add on and remodeltheirhouse-newkitchen, new entertainment area, and ultimately, new master suite. (Good thingJim is goingto onlybe semi-retired!) Jim andJessicahost the annual Northern CaliforniaAssociation ofGraduates SportsDayand Barbecue in late September. (You know, after we all really retire, we could alljust show up in the Bay area in late September....)

Nick and Patricia Lacey (RayCity, GA) seem to be having second thoughts about “the farm. While he was vacationing in Colorado in July/August, the worms got to the crops. Nickreports that soybeans don’t mature wellwithout leaves.Additionally, the hurricanes and tropical storms that came through the South inAugust/September blewthe immature nuts out ofthe pecan trees.

Oh well, Nick stays busy running a 911 center. He wears a second hat of emergency management director (writing disaster plans and coordinating disaster response efforts) and a third hatwith responsibilityforpublicsafety radio communications. Patricia takes care ofher agingmother, who lives on their farm, spends a lot oftime with their two grandchildren (3 and 2 years), and keeps Nick on the straight and narrow.

There should be information elsewhere in this issue about elections forthe AOG Board ofDirectors. Please vote. Also, please check out the new website at www.usafa.org. Rod Wells is runningfor an at-large Directorposition and needs our support.

In the spirit ofbalanced reporting-you all probably knowthatJimWheeler is working with a group called the “AOG Reunification Committee - ARC.” This group (see usafatoday.com) is petitioning to have all ofthe positions on

RayGreene - Navy PatentLawyer Extraordinaire.

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the Board ofDirectors electedbythe members (some are now appointed) and to totallyseparate the Board fromthe Nominating Committee. There is a lot of spirited rhetoric involved in this situation, and I leave it up to each ofyou to decide which side to support - but please decide. Don’t let a “vote byapathy” make the decision for us.

Rick Zurbrugg

2929 Gavin Place

Duluth, GA 30096

E-mail: ezurb@bellsouth.net

Hey’65!

40th Reunion: November 2-5,2005 Antlers Hilton.

A Samplingofholidayletters: Bruce and BettyWood: Theirholidaye-letter as poetry:

“Then came the Fall and a trip to the mountains ofItaly

ToVenice, Aviano, Florence, Rome, speaking Italian so wittily

To Marosticaforthe Human Chess Game and a meal in a castle

On to Pisa and Lucca and time lost in the Rome driving hassle

We walked the steep mountain paths ofthe villages ofCinque Terre

Where the slopes caused Bruce pain - he didn’twalklike a Fairy.

Then back home we flew on anotherlong ride on an airplane

To see what had been wroughtbyterrible Ivan the hurricane.

But serendipityprevailed. Ivan was relativelykind to our home.

Just limbs and a tree, not the calamity we saw on TVin Rome.”

Well done! Thanks Bruce and Betty in Navarre, FL.

Michael and MarciaWhitehorn: “We’re enjoying our son and daughter and our six-month-old grandson, Michael (our daughter’s). Her husband is a Navy SEAL in harm’s way again.” In our prayers, Michael.

Jim and LindaWilson: “...ithas been a goodyear...In October we wentback to visittheAFAcademyand in November we went to an air show in LasVegas. Besides campingand traveling I havebeenplaying a lotofgolf. Unfortunately my game isn’t getting anybetter. Maybe next year.” Thanks Jim (the eternal optimist).

Johnny“JJ” and PhyllisJudd: “We continue... to cheer on the Falcons at all theAir Force football games. The tailgating is fun and we always see a bunch ofgood friends from near and far. Air Force excelled at the hoopslast season. We drove up to see them playthe NCAA tournament forthe first time since JJ’s 61-62 season... see you at the 40th!” The most excitingbasketball player in Falcon history.

Jim and Linda Turinetti: “.. .just returned from shopping the Christmas markets again in Germany... Jim had a beneficialvisit to themilitaryantiqueshowinKassel, Germany... Also stopping in Brussels to visit with another collector... and sharingantiquing stories, we ended our two-weektrip with a stayin Berlin to celebrate our 39th weddinganniversary.” [Scribe’s Note: Best lookingfamilypicture award: Son Jimmie promoted to Major and selected to attendACSC at Ft Leavenworth; son Joel selected to attendAFIT as PhD in Nuclear Engineering. Two dropdead gorgeouswiveswithfourgrands (three girls and a boynamedDominic).

Earle and Marcia Monroe: “Wehad a roughyearweatherwise... lost a couple ofpecan trees to Ivan and some awnings to the tornado... Given the choice of here or Florida though, I’ll take unpredictableAlabama! Earle retired (again) fromteaching thisyear...Wehave a farm full ofcritters—cows, llamas, chickens, peacocks, cats and dogs including our newest, an American bulldog named Boudreau... five months old... 70 pounds... hilarious. We are fortunate now to have our children [scribe note: with their families] in houses on our land... The Monroe Compound. Do these peopleknowsomethingabout real estate?

Dickand Brenda Husemann: “We’ve been livingin North Carolinaforbetter thansixyears and havegraduatedfrom ‘damnYankees’ to the more acceptable status ofpermanentemigrants from the North. Wilmington’s attraction for us hasn’t faded a bit—it continues to suffer some severe growingpains and an occasional hurricaneprovides briefexcitement—butthe greatweather, nice peopleandTHE BEACH more than compensate... Dicktaughtmathandphysics classes for Cape Fear CommunityCollege, University ofPhoenixonline and Mount Olive College. He and a friend... are still working to import Russian electron beam and X ray technology but Dick has taken a verylimited role. His allegiance to theCincinnatiReds andBengalscontinues to be a source ofoccasional toweringecstasyinterspersedwithdespairandfrustration...We did venture into Blue Land (NewEngland) in August and had a wonderful time exploring the coast ofMaine and the magnificent forests ofNewHampshire. We even wondered throughVermont, land ofthe last livingliberals, but escaped unscathed to celebrate November 4th Bravo Brenda!

RodRodman: Here is a picture ofme and mymotherin SanLuis Obispo, CA. She turned 85 Dec 12 and we four brothers are spending some mother/ son time with her this year. I continue to ply my trade as a realtor in Orlando.

Althoughthe marketis stillhot, there are far too manyofus in thebusiness. The standingjoke is thatwhen people move to Florida theyget a driver’s license and a real estate license at the same time. That is aboutthe truth. I am in touch with MikeTedesco inTampavia email fairlyfrequently. Bill and Marge Nielsen visited us a fewmonths backwhen theywere in town from San Bemadino, CA for a business convention. Lookingforward to the 2005 reunion. Hope lots of people attend.

FlashWiley: “I thought I’d send alongcopies ofsome photos taken in D.C. lastweekwhenArt Beamon, BendeyPlummer, CharlieThomas, FreddyGregory (’64),Arrington Dixon (’67), and I got together forlunch. (As you know, Fredwill receive the Distinguished GraduateAward this comingApril.) Needless to say, we had a ball!” Res IpsaLoquitor.

Your humble scribe is exhorted to make the followingpoints: 1 .Vote (early and often like a Chicago Democrat) in the upcomingAOG Board election. 2. Check out the newAOGweb site at www.usafa.org.

Friendlyhelpfulsuggestions:Vowthat 2005 will be theyearwhenyou were able to recite from memory (as easily as: “Sir, the discipline which makes the soldiers of a free country reliable in battle...” and, “The General is sorry to be informed that the foolish and wicked practice...”, yournumbers: BMI (Body Mass Index—the key to longevity), your LDL/HDL cholesterols and your blood pressure. Each of these is modifiable in your favor and your significant others will thank you. For extra credit, add the precise dates of your last colonoscopy, and when your physician, an apparentlyteenaged girl, palpated your prostate gland and reviewed your PSA (prostate specific antigen). 40th Reunion—BeThere! ReadKiyosaki’shook, Who TookMyMoney.

Bewell, do goodwork, andkeep in touch. AstheRocwouldsay, “Cheers”. Rick

Ryan Denny 1635 Mary Todd Lane O’Fallon, IL 62269

H: (618) 624-4255

W: (314) 232-5117

E-mail: ryanden@aol.com

GreetingsRedtags! Well... we got a little news and we got a little controversy. That’s what makes life interesting. But, first a word from our sponsors. (This is starting to sound like the SixO’clock News.)

The AOG has a new web site that they invite us all to check it out at www.usafa.org. Theypromise that it’s satisfyingbut not filling, low-carb, and contains no trans fats. Theyalso want to remind everyone to vote in the upcomingAOG Board election.

And, speakingoftheAOGBoard, thisbrings us to the controversialpart ofthe show. There have been dozens ofe-mails flyingthroughcyberspaceasking us to support a petition to change thewaytheAOG operates or telling us that the AOG isworkingjust fine. Both sides have some articulate and passionate representatives (well trained USAFAgrads) who are not bashful about tellingyou

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Rod RodmanandMom

USAFAGrads at lunch in D.C.

whattheythink. I don’tthinkit’sproperfor me to take a publicposition inthis debate; butyou need to knowthat it is going on, andyou should read up on it and decide foryourself. Nowfor some news....

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Tom Markham, who is the executive director ofthe LowryRedevelopment Authority, was elected president ofthe national association that represents communitieswith active andclosed militarybases. With the nextround ofbase closingscomingup thisyear, this is a critical time to be running an organization like this. Tom has done a greatjob with Lowry, proving that there is “life after closure”. Under his leadership, the development has ereated a $4 billion gross economic impactforthe Denver area. (Is thatwhythe price ofa beerhas gone up so much?) More than 100 employers are located at Lowry,bringing6,000jobs to the area. Tom and his wife, Kathy, joined up with Dave Keeley, hiswife,Adrienne, andtheever-presentKennyBoone for a Ninth Squadron mini-reunion at the Broadmoor. Davejust retired as the Vice President ofthe First National BankinAmboy, IL and got a vacation at the Broadmoor as one ofhis retirement gifts. So, Tom and Kennydecided to help him celebrate the occasion.

John Casper, the once famous astronaut, sent a note and a greatpicture of

butJoe says that, forall ofthem, itreinforcedtheircommitment to unite again for the 40th Reunion. He also said “For the rest ofyou Sixty-Sixers, it’s time to suck it up, get out the gray-B-gone, and make it to the bigfour-oh. You’llhave an even better time thanyou could imaginereunitingwith your classmates and theirwives.” I’m not sure ifthat falls under “news” or “commercial”, but I agree with Joe.

Sincethe 40th is still more than ayearaway, Hugh Gommelhas come upwith

Tom andKathyMarkham, KennyBoone, AdrienneandDaveKeeleyenjoyingthegoodlife a t theBroadmoorHotelin Colorado Springs.

some Redtags at theAFA-BYU football game last Fall. John was the “mystery guest” that showedup at the gamewhile he was in town to take a NASA-sponsored leadership course. (There are so manycheap shots to take at this point, I can’t decide which one to take, so I’ll pass.) Anyway, I guess John completed the course, becausehe’s still running the NASAorganization thatis going to get the space shuttlebackin operationthisyear. Johnsaysthatitis great to see, that afterall oftheseyears, howstrongthe bondiswith our classmates and how our friendships continue. Theyalreadystartedtalkingup our 40th Reunion—Marty Daak and the local crowd are in the planningstages.

Jess Cogleywrites thathe andhiswife of38years, Karen, havegone crazyand

a great idea for some “mini-reunions” to warm us up. At one ofthe football games lastyear, a group ofRedtags had such a good time thatthey are talking aboutrenting a classyskyboxat Falcon Stadiumfornextyears football season. Hugh thinks the price will be about $170 per game, but that includes food, drinks, and the company ofyour classmates. The tickets could be bought individually, or (even better idea) get a group from your old squadron together and have that mini-reunion. Hugh hasvolunteered to be the Point of Contact, but he needs some folks to commit to a game or two before he can sign a contract. Please givehim a call at 702-896-5513 or sendhim an e-mail at www.hegommel@cox.net.

Thanks for all the news and especially the pictures. Theywill reallyhelp prepare us for the shockofseeing each other at the 40th Reunion. Keep them coming! Until next time... HappyLandings!

Larry Wilson

13100 Pinehurst Ave. NE Albuquerque, NM 87111

H: (505) 291-8949

E-mail: Lwilsn628@aol.com

Ah, January- time for skiing and otherwinter sports, football playoffs and championships, and ofcourse itis the time ofthe ritual resolution-makingfor the NewYear; followed closelybythe breaking ofthem. As has become my custom, I again resolved to pay more attention to mydietand to exercise more regularly, to getbackto beingfitandtrimandbufflike in cadetdays. Hahahaha. I thinkI havemadethatresolutioneachyearforthepastseveralyears.And each yearmygirth andweight seem to creep up a notch, to make itthatmuch more ofa challenge. Nevertheless - with hope that springs eternal, thisyear IWILL get serious about it.

decided to build a new house. (There goes 38 years!) However, he made a smart move and hired GeoffAykroyd to be the general contractor. Geoffhas been building houses in and around SanAntonio for over 20 years, so maybe Jess’s marriage will survive this experience. Anotherplus from this operation is thatJess won’t have to worry about retirement—because he’ll be working forthe next 30 years to make the house payments.

In September, classmates from 18th Squadron met at USAFAfor a memorial service for Stan Gault and BertHetrick. JoiningStan’s familywere Bill and Sue Bowen, TommyThompson, Ron and Sharon Boatright, Herb McClannan, Neil andVicki Crist, Mike Powell, Roger Scott, andJoe and Marianne Sugg. Joesendshis thanks to theAOG and to theAcademyforplanningandexecuting the service in such an outstanding manner. All presentsaid that Stan and Bert would have approved.

For some ofthis group, it was theirfirstvisit back to USAFAsince graduation;

I received Holidaycommunicationsfrom several ofour folks - always a rich source ofinput forthis first-of- the-year Checkpoints.And awwwaaaayyyywe go! After a year’s respite from generating Christmas letters, Emil and Michele Monda got back into the swing ofit. Their eldest is now in college, changing majors and other non- essential directions frequentlywhile maintaininghis emphasis in the important social issues like being social chairman ofhis dorm. Meanwhile their middle son has taken upwresdingand is learninghow

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YOUR MONEY HELPS FUND CADETWING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED. CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

RedtagstailgatingattheAFA-BYUfootballgame. MartyDaak, Tom Guenther, Ross Guhser, VicAndrews, LarryBagley, John Casper, KennyBoone (again), RickParsons, allleaningon MikeHeenan.

Classmatesfrom Iff11 SquadrongathertohonorStan GaultandBertHetrick.

FrontRow: Stan’s daughters, MichelleLeak, Melanie Martin, Kristin Martin, and KelleyStory, surrounding Paula Gault. Back Row: Roger Scott, Ron Boatright, Neil Crist, TommyThompson, HerbMcClannan, MikePowel, Joe Sugg, andBillBowen.

much fun itis to cut weight. He is offto a good start, havingwon two ofhis first threematches. Theiryoungest son seems to have inherited a giftofgab from... someone; to the extent that Em has to wait his turn to speak at all. Their two cats, now 10 years old, continue to thrive. Michele and Em are serious about returning to southern Cal, and are now designing and building their retirement home in Laguna Beach. Here is an official Christmas Familypicture of Em and crew.

LexPagetraveled abitin2004-started atthe RoseBowl; sawboththeBayHill Classic and the Masterswith former roomo ArtTait; and finished offhis sports year bywatchingAir Force dismantleArmy atWest Point in football. In Octoher he and son Chris got away for a trip to Peru, exploring Inca ruins and Machu Picchu. Returning to home in Oregon, he helped a winemaker friend host some open houses. Somewhere alongtheline I imagine he also did some legal work.

Abner and Pattie Haynes checked in, continuing our 20+ year exchange of the same Christmas card. It is getting a bitfrayed about the edges and now is so full ofsignatures and comments that it pretty much requires that a note be inserted. The note this year reflects that the Haynes maybe looking to move somewhere a bit less hurricane-prone than their current home in Florida. Like maybe theVegas area.

Lex and JackieJensen both retired this fall, and plan to depart the Midwest for sunnyArizona. Les finished his Master’s in Music Education and completed his final season with the Central Iowa Symphony. He also used some of his now-less-encumbered time to hit the golf course. Note that I did NOT say hit the golfBALL... it seems Les is a bit parchallenged. Butthen - who among us is not? Next stop for the Jensens is Scottsdale,AZ-where Les willbe activelypursuing baseball (probably as a spectator) as well as his golf. Their older son is nearlyfinishedwith his medical residencytraining, and in his spare time is preparing to compete in an Iron ManTriathlonin NewZealand; while theiryounger son continues the Good Life in Chicago, patiendywaiting forthe next great season forthe Cubs.

From Roger and Shonnie Carleton—Rogerspent a good bit oftime on the road, “pushing Boeing’s unmanned systerns... One mightthink, prettylowtechstuffiftheymustbe pushed. But I digress. Carletons returned a fewtimes to their Boulder River cabin in Montana, where a river runs through it, for a bit oftrout fishing in Shonnie’s home area. Theyhope to do that much more when Roger retires again; probablyin the near ftiture, with a more permanentretirement home in Colorado Springs, in thehome thatis thereunderconstructionforthem. Their kids - last seen by us when they were in elementaryschool in Germany- are growingup: daughterKindall is completinghersenioryear atTexanA&M, still on theirtrackteam (polevault), studyingbiomedical engineering; while daughter Christa is a freshman atWestern State in Gunnison, CO, studying art and rock climbing.

Bill and Patti Hurley’syearhad some interesting twistsamongotherthings, theygetstuck (?) in Hawaii as HurricaneIvan crashedintoAlabamaand Georgia and they could not get home. Later in the fall their son Billydeparted his Hawaii home to become manager ofthe new in-development Marineland in Florida. Bill and Patti are delighted to have them more accessible, in case there are anyfamilyadditions.

The Shaws - Jim and Cindyand family - have had another interesting and active year, with Jim’sAOGwork (see below), Cindy’s teaching, kids in Colorado,Virginia andTexas, and grandkidsnearby in Colorado.

About that “interesting” comment—by now most, ifnot all ofus have received beaucoup communications, email and hard copy, point and counterpoint, with various supporting (for one side or another) commentary, from theARC and theAOG. I will not attempt to describe or to condensetheissue(s), or positions. I am glad to see thatserious issues are beingconsidered seriously by some verygoodpeople on both sides oftheissues. I thinkthat each ofus has easy access to all the information and opinion that we mightwant, to help us

come to some conclusions. Ifthis current issue has not been resolvedbythe time this Checkpointsgoes out - whichI suspectitwill nothavebeen—Iwould encourage each ofus to contact our class’AOG reps, and GeorgeVanWagenen and/or others for theirperspectives.

As I am composingthis, CNN is playing in the background, givingthe latest updates on thetsunamitragedy,interspersedoccasionallywiththelatest casualtycounts fromIraq. From some ofyourletters andinputsduringtheyear, from the recent deathsofsomeofourguys, andfrommypersonalexperience - thefun and promiseandhopesofthe HolidaySeason and the NewYear are for some temperedbyreal-lifelossand sadness. Itmaybeimportantto remindourselves that a bad dayin the U.S. prettymuch beats hands-down a gooddayinmany parts oftheworld; thatwe live in the land ofthe free andthehome ofthebrave, whereintegrity, service andexcellence are livingvalues; thatwe can makethings betterforothersbybeingthere forthem; andthatthehuman interaction ofcall, note, email orwhatever - can oftenbrighten a prettygrimday.

Bestwishes to each ofyou for a great 2005. God Bless theTroops. God Bless America.

Tim Davidson

9712 Hidden Valley Road

Vienna, VA 22181-6094

(703) 255-5313

Fax: (703) 255-5377

E-mail: timd@erols.com

COL-OH-RADO HEREI COME.. .Wait a minute, Maude, that’s the same way he started his last column! You suppose the old codgeris finallylosingit!

HELLO’68! Take it easy, Maude. Don’tcall forthe guys in thewhite coatsjust yet! The repeat ofmy opening refrain from the last column is the result of anothervisit to Colorado in November to attend Ed Eberhart’s departure from Northern Command and NORAD. It was a sensational send-offfor a sensationalAir Force officer and class leader. With the grace and aplomb of seasoned diplomat, Ed, and his lovelybride, Karen, bid farewell to a standing ovation as theyleft center stage. It was humbling to be amongthe hundreds of militaryandcivilianwell-wishers attendingtheevent, andthe ceremonyserved as a fittingtestament to a true gentlemanwho served our nationwithvigorous dedication, courage, honor, and great distinction. Congratulations, Ed, on a stellar and remarkablejourney. Your classmates are extremelyproud to have you as one of our own and we salute you on ajob verywell done!

A GatheringofEberhartsandFriends. Fromleftkneeling:PatHurley, Steve McPhail, and Carl McPherson. Standing: Jessica Eberhart, Scribe, Karen Eberhart, MikeCryer, EricaEberhart, Linda Cryer, EdEberhart, LindseyParris (’69), VicTambone (’69), Tom O’Beirne, Greg"Speedy”Martin (70). Notpictured: Tom Taverney.

NEWS FROMTHEAOGDEPT: TheAOG, yourClass officers, andyourScribe encourageyou to vote in the upcomingAOG Board election. To check out the newAOGwebsite, please enter: www.usafa.org. (Scribe Note: There is a significant debate underwayconcerningtheupcomingAOGBoard election. The debate centers on howmanymembers ofthe Board should be elected or appointed andwhetherthe current Boardtrulyrepresents the interests ofUSAFA graduates. The group petitioningfor change is called theAOG Reunification Committee and its information is located at: www.aogrc.org and www.USAFAToday.com. The current Board’s information maybe found on the newAOGwebsite. Please take a few moments to understand the issues before you cast your ballot.)

HOLIDAYMAILBAG DEPT: Manythanks to allwho sent holidaygreetings in 2004. Itwas great to hearfromyou and to get some snippets offamilylife from yourrespective corners ofthe worldvia newsletters andphotos.

To keep our Colorado theme going, the first letter comes from Bill and Sue Eckertwho are residingcomfortablyin C-Springs. In 2004, Bill served as Ed Eberhart’s speechwriter at NORAD and Northern Command andis now serving in the same position for Ed’s replacement, Admiral Tim Keating. Sue’s exercise regimen includes a daily4.5-mile fast-walk that has her in the best

Em Monda andhis betterhalfandotherfactions.

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shape ofherlife. Billis clearlyintimidatedbySue’sprowess in this area! Daughter, Katie, is in flight training at MoodyAFB, GA and is scheduled to get her wings on January21 st In addition to work, Bill and Sue notedtheyhad a good travel year, which included a 12-daycruise to Cozumel, Belize, the Panama Canal, Costa Rica, Jamaica, andGrandCayman. In addition to the cmise, they got in a visitwith Bob and JudyPastusek to explore Georgia and South Carolina during the height ofthe azalea season.

Now, offwe go to merry old England, where Geo and Heidi Roberts report ofdrinking tea and eatingcrumpets. No, not really, classmates, I was justchecking to see whetheryou were paying attention. Actually, Geo’s company“The Wilshire Group” underwent significantrestructuring in 2004 and he is overseeing a fairly fluid business model as they move forward into new areas of endeavor. Geo and Heidi have found great comfort in their faith and family and were involved in the filming ofa religious program for BBC that had 5.5 million viewers. Geo and Heidi also spend a wee bit oftime on ye olde golf course and Geo’s handicap is now “teetering at 9.7 strokes.” Travel included trips to California, Kansas, and Colorado, where Geo joined me in the October, Reese AFB, 70-01 PilotTraining reunion featured in the Fall 2004 column.

Carl and Susan McPherson checked in to sayhello. Carl is currently an independent representative for Fortune Hi-Tech Marketing out ofNiceville, FL and, when not dodgingCategory4 hurricanes, enjoyshis humble abode near Choctawhatchee Bay. The photo featured above was taken at Ed Eberhart’s farewell party at the Peterson AFB O’Club.

Changingthe venue fromNiceville, FLto Porterville, CA, Maurice andAntonia Ecungbegan theirholiday letterwith an acknowledgement thattheycelebratedtheir35th weddinganniversaryin2004 and thattheirfirst date was gradnight in DisneylandbackinJune of 1964. Maurice is DirectorofWocational Services forhis RotaryClub and helped to launch a verysuccessful career day program. He also continues to compose musicandiswriting a novel. Meanwhile, Antonia isAcademic Dean ofPorterville College and was a featured speaker at the CaliforniaWomen’s AgendaConference on theStatusofWomen. Both 1st LtMelanie and 2nd LtAllison graduated from USAFAand are now on active duty. Melanie is stationed atAndrewsAFB, MD as the Human Resources Director forthe OSI andhersquadron’s section commander. Allison is a communications officer at CroughtonRAFB, UK.

Thelastletterforthis column takes us back to NewEngland, where Mike and Cheryl Boots told ofmoving fromVirginia to Windham, NH so Mike could accept a job with Raytheon in March 2004 to workinternational business development. Mike and CherylmetinNewHampshire38yearsago, so returning

to the area was justlike cominghome. Cherylhas taken on the interior decoratordutiesfortheir newhome and is enjoyingher “workinprogress. Daughter Laurie and her husband, Rob, are working inAtlantawith grandchildren HayleyandJordan. DaughterJennifer isworking on herPhD at theUniversity ofColorado, while son Rob is completinghis master’s program at the Savannah College ofArt and Design. His degree will be in computer animation. THAT’S AWRAP: As the column closes, our thoughts and prayers go out to our Servicemen and women in harms way around the world and for those who have suffered so much in thewake ofthe tsunami disasterin South Asia. Take time to be thankful fortheblessingsyouhave. Speakingofblessings, my son Josh and hiswife, Olivia, had a babygirl (Aisly) in September and my son Scott andhis wife, Lynette, had a babyboy(Christopher) in January, so forthe firsttime in mylife, this is “Grandpa” Davidson signingoff. Mind the flak; keep ’em flying, and keep those cards, letters, e-mails, and photoscoming in. Ciao for now. Tim Now it’s your turn, Lindsey!

Lindsey Parris

616 King’s Cloister Circle

Alexandria, VA 22302

Home: (703) 836-3604

E-mail:

102177.1033@compuserve.com

Top ofthe three-months-into-the-New-Year to you all, from frigid D.C. As you read this, thankful for the NHL hockeyimpasse which freed up discretionary time for you to rereadYeats and Balzac, work on a cure for cancer, muse deeply about the aftermath ofthe upcomingIraqi elections, and perhapswork on yourshort game, yourthoughtswill at lastbe turning to thejoys ofspring and summer. And ofcourse to reading ofthe continuingexploits of ’69ers on the move.

Many are still relivingthe 35th reunion, which resonates as perhaps our best yet. There are some unconfirmed rumors regardingcadet-erachronic dreams about someone named Fred Black, and the handles in the SAR door turning from insidewhen no one was in the room (talk to KennyStevenson andTom Oliver about this).What would a reunion be without a little mystery? And, where the dickens were, among others, Ed Land and Mike Martin, anyway; hiding awayin one ofthoseWaldo books awaitingdiscovery?

In a briefthough notsurprisingtilttowardsthedeep-seatedcompetitivestreak, it seems to bethe case that inthe wee hoursoftheSaturdayeveningrejoin, there was an unofficial Class arm-wrestlingchampion crowned—JoeHasek, who narrowlyeked out a win over Bill Haney—though manyofthe usual suspects (KennyHamlin, Tom Fleming, Les Dyer, Dick Swanson, Buffalo Tibbets, Jeff Trenton, andTobo) were not around to throwtheir arms into the ring. Nor was RandyPercythere to supervise and help ensure against radial fractures to the humeri, which were avoided bystrictnon-slamming rules.

Ron Love was delighted to rallyagainwithhis Playboy 19th Squadron mates (see photo) as well as with the group of CE “Dirt” majors at the U ofIllinois: Steve Stowe, JeffGrime, TJ Black, Mike DeWitt, and JR Richards.

19th Squadron atreunion play:John Graham, Ron Love, JoeHasek, Mike McMurphy, MikeKlindt, Tim Mason, H. Ownby, RoyWhite, andFrankCountryman.

In a picture for another time (words and pixlimited a lot now, due to the burgeoning size of Checkpoints—will beworking in additional pix, such as the ones Jackand Cheryl Davis and Royand LindsayCoppingersent, infuture issues), Ron and Steve worked in some post-reunion practice at the Hofbrauhaus near Cincinnati. “Ah, yes. Beers in a one-liter mug—Brilliant!”

Dave Spencer, one ofmanywho exhausted themselves on the dance floor with our wonderfully-fetchingDancing-Queen partners, took advantage of the gathering to see former roomiesWayne Warren and MartyCavato, who occupythe right side ofthe followingpicture he sent along, with a few nonformer roommates thrown in for good measure.

Bytheway, askDave and Debbie abouttheirpicture takenwith none other thanPamela LeeAndersonher own self. (Hint: this has everything to do with Debbie’s continued involvement in gymnastics at the highest—as in U.S. Olympic team - levels.)

68's WingCommanders 36+ years later! From left are CarlMcPherson andEdEberhart.

’68’sand ‘’69'sScribes:LindseyParrisatleft, andTimDavidson. Photo taken at EdEberhart’sfarewellpartyon 4 Nov20

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McGrain, moi, HarryLaws, DaveSpencer, WayneWarren, andMartyCavato.

Thanks again to DavidWagnerfor agreeingto spearhead the committee for the Class 40th Reunion Gift, which we discussed at the reunion, concerning which we wrote you before Christmas. Pass along any ideas you have, or volunteer your time, to David (or to me, or to any other ofthe Class officers) it’s about our Class and our legacy to our Academy, and it can’t be either without each ofus.

Updates. John Hopper, serving as thevice commander ofAirEducation and TrainingCommand, received the Order ofthe Sword on December 10th This honoris the highestgivenbythe enlisted corps andJohn is the third person to receive theAETC Order ofthe Sword since the command was established in 1993. Congrats to John, who keeps on keeping on.

John Hopper receives Order ofthe Sword from ChiefMaster Sergeants

MichaelA. Mazzi and Karl W. Meyers.

Lunchwith Darrel and Chris Whitcomb before the holiday, and Darrel is no worse forthe wear afterhis severalmonths in Iraq, havingendured a couple close calls at Balad. He corrected me in asserting that he thought Balad was like LasVegas, without greenery; in fact, it’s like El Paso, without greenery. Look for his new book to come out in the late spring. We’re gladyou’re back safely, Darrel.

MartyCavato and Ins Dyer, facedwith one ofthevexingissues ofour time— at thatplace ofconvergence amongmanagement, unions, and theinexorable forces ofthe marketplace—haveboth elected to retire from theirDeltaflying careers. Not sure what Marty is doingwith all his spare time, though it is rumored he isworking on the new “VegasVariation” ofthe new Social SecurityPlan, in which workers can choose to allot earnings into backing participants in the World Series of Poker; ever civic-minded Les, in the meantime, has become avolunteerfirefighterinPeachtreeCity even as thestockprices in KrispyKreme, World Gymnasiums, Magnolia Lane Golf Links, and the Peachtree CityBrewPub have all skyrocketed since he moved offDelta’s duty roster effective December 1. BartTucker, engaged on numerous fronts, hasbeenspending a great bulk ofhis time oflate as the head ofHabitat for HumanityforNorthernVirginia, wherehehas been focusing some ofHabitat’s agenda on strife-torn Haiti. Brian and Lizzie Nelson (remember, tennis buffs, golfers and middle agers, Brian is one ofthe preeminentback experts in the country!) sent alongRayStevens’ classic “Xerox Christmas Letter” over the holidays, harkeningback to the days before PowerPoint and PCs. Mike and Vivian Rosehad a busyyear. Mikecontinues hisworkinthelegalrealm as well as inhisco-founder rolewithLortune HighTechMarketing, and in2004 hadthe misfortune ofjoiningthe growinglegions ofus who have had knee surgeryof one kind or another. He andVivian have thewelcome mat out to those ofyou who head to Charleston. Jim Williams changedjobs last fall, and promises detailswill follow, but not untilhe and Gail celebrate their35th in theBahamas. GerryBrown has servedin a varietyofcapacities at NASA’sLangleyCenter, and

is now NASA’s Liaison to NAVAIR at PaxRiverNavalAir Station. He’s studying Spanishinhis spare time. “SernoPerecer,"nuestrohermano.

TomMcGrain, flyingforNorthwest out ofPhoenix, has a line on an extra 1969 Polaris, so ifanyofyou need one, or know someone who does, letTom know. RayHaygood, computer scientist nonpareil, works at the National Security Agency, where he has been employed since graduation. Another ’69er on the leadingedges ofthe batde againstterrorism.

Bob Schutt is now beginning a new career, even as many in the Class are looking to crank a bit more leisure into the daily regimen. Texas Tech was always a draw, as those ofyouwho wrangled amongWilliams, Randolph, and Reese for UPT will recall, andBob is now the Chairman ofthe Departmentof OrthopaedicSurgery at Tech’s Health Sciences center. Someone has to keep BobbyKnight inline, after all.

Unfortunately, I encountered some computer and e-mail problems last fall, which are now resolved. However, as a consequence, I mayhave missed (or never received) newsy or “idea” e-mailsyou sent. IfI failed to respond to a note you sent me, please retransmit atyour convenience, because I didn’t receive it! All goodwishes to all ofyou. Until next time, cheers. Lindsey

Dick Rauschkolb

130 Luxury Lane Colorado Springs, CO 80921

H: (719) 481-3239

W: (719) 472-0300/DSN: 333-2067

E-mail: Dick.Rauschkolb@usafa.af.mil

Greetings classmates! Justlearnedthat our Reunionwillbe 8-10 September.We playSan Diego State thatweekend. Should be time forpayback as theybeat us here lastyearand cost us a bowl bid. WildWood—startpracticing“Rip ’emwith abeak-slash ’emwith a claw!” Ifyouplan on playing in the golftournament, you need to get here on Wednesdaythe 7th as the tournamentwillbe onThursday.We have reserved a block ofrooms at theWyndham our Reunion headquarters for early arrivals. Bythe time you read this, I am sure manyofyouwillbeworking on your sorrygolf games to raise the oldhandicap to sneakinto the $$ atthebig tournament. RexLevoysaidhe is a 16—right! It’stime to find some goodpartners or take some lessonsforthebigevent.We willhave a goodtime, butyoushould startliningup yourteams so we can easily pairfoursomes up wellbefore the dayofthe tournament. Justlet me knowwho youwant to playwith and make sure theywant to playwithyou!

Mike Torreano andJiisReunionTeam are busyputtingtogether a fun time for us. Gary Dahlen and Mike are looking into possibleheritageprojects for our class gift.Asyouknow, the class funded a replicaoftheWarMemorialalongthe HeritageTrail outside Doolittle Hall. I see it everydayand am extremelyproud thatthe Class ofSeventyfunded this tribute to our fallen classmates and fellow graduates.

On a sad note, Ijust received notification that our classmate, Dayton Webb passed away. Our thoughts and prayers go out to Karen and their family.

As you no doubt know, there is a battle going on between the AOG and a group ofgraduateswho want to run theAOG differently.As an employee ofthe AOG, I have to be cautious aboutvoicing an opinion on the merits oftheir case. But I would be glad to share mythoughtswith anyonewho maybe interested give me a call or send an email. I feel strongly about some things based on first-handknowledgeofbeinghereforalmost20years andserving on the Board in the earlydays. Please vote in thisyear’s election fortheAOG Board ofDirectors. Be sure and vote for our classmateWild Bill Stealey.Wild Bill will not only bringneeded expertise to the Board ofDirectors buthis passion for theAcademyand everything it stands foris not exceeded by anygraduate I know. Let’s make sure Wild Bill is elected!

The Lalcons ripped CSU in its final football game—perhaps a good harbingerofthings to come next season. MyNavybuds are stillgiving me grief!Speaking ofNavy, the game next yearwill be inAnnapolis, probably on 8 October. WildWoodWoodhead is looking to put on a mini-reunion before or after the game—more details to follow. Speaking ofWildWood, just heard my CS-15 classmatesWood, GeorgeKeys, Doug Norton and SpeedyMartin shared a few adult beverages at Harry’sTap Room inVirginia. Shades ofthe ZuiderZee! Basketball team is pretty decent this year, but duplicating another conference championship will be a hard feat and getting to the NCAAs again will be next to impossible—butmaybe an invite to the NITwill happen. SawMark and Kristi Ewig at our 64-62 victory over NewMexico yesterday. Carl Bang and Dave Gaw are also big BB fans. GreggPopovich’sSpurs had a home stand over Christmas andhe got to spend some timewith Erin and children Mick andJill.

Popo has the Spurs rolling—let’s hope his players stayhealthy. Came across this picture oflots ofSeventy men in my files. Can’t recall the exact occasion, but I believe SpeedyMartin was addressing a group ofgrads in the D.C. area. I can’t identify everyone; theylook much older than I do. But I suspect Oker O’Connor, GeorgeKeys, andWildWood Woodhead —all sitting with Speedy—hadsomething to do with setting this up.

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Sabre Society Donors

SeventyMen GatherforPracticeReunion.

Hopeeverybodyhad a goodHoliday. Heard fromlots ofclassmates. Seems the announcement ofDocWaskow’s retirement was premature. I gatherthe Air Force asked him to postpone his retirement until his replacement is confirmed. As ofthis writing Doc and Sheila are back in Japan. That means Tim Kinnan is getting a head start on his golfgame forthe Reunion. Seems Tim is still ponderingwhat to do with his new-found freedom. I am sure Suewishes hewould hurryup and make up his mind. She doesn’t enjoyhis company on trips to the commissary! Fran andKathyBuchan are goingto buildtheirdream home thisyear.TerryandSharon Dessert are still dryingout in their new home in Florida.

Mick and Jan Daveyhad a great trip to Prague. Joe and Diane Burke continue to enjoytheirjobs at Keuka College. Joevisited the Philippines andTaiwan on business prior to the Holidays. RoyandAnne Long are still in Oklahoma and enjoyinglife. SawRich Downing—he and Nandhad a greatHoliday.Jackand MargieMuellerhosted a greatHolidayparty. Ron and Pam Kelley continue to work for SRA and General Dynamicsrespectively.Tommy and Cookie Thompson are planning on attending the Reunion so is Bags Bagliebter. John and Linda Disosway went to a high school reunion in Wiesbaden,Germany. LorenandLindaAinsworth finishedup theirtrip around the country.Theyhad dinnerwithTooeyand Carol Emeryand saw Dave Gaw at IHOP. Marilyn and I enjoyedseeingTooeyand Carol at a Christmas reception on the eve oftheir trip to Paris for the Holidays. Kudos to Jerryand Pam Bruni for once againsupportingtheEmptyStockingFundin Colorado Springs with a substantial contribution.Andthanksforadvertisingin CheckpointsJerry!

Heard from DougCarlson —heworks for DARPAinWashington. His son is a firstie in CS-6 and is doinggreat. Chip Terrill recendycompleted39years of government service. He is also recovering from some majorhip surgery. Chip plans to start working forWhite & Case lawfirm—dealingwith intellectual property and energyregulatory matters. Rayand NancyBarleben are taking upTriathlons!YIKES! Myideaofa triathlon is a round ofgolf, a fewMarlboros, and a cold beer. Somethingiswronghere! Speakingofsomethingwrong, Dana Arbaugh sent me the picture belowofformerCadetWingCommander, Chuck Reed. Chuckhas finallyfound his calling as a rocksingerand plans to kick off a nationwide tour at our Reunion next fall.

ChuckReedWarms UpforSeventyReunion.

Pat Collins had the privilege ofpinningpilotwings on his son who graduatedwith honors from UPT. Pat said he lost 40 lbs on theAtkins diet (see above comment on scribe’s triathlon—and throwin a brat!). Pat is flyingfor UPS in theA-300. Tom and George Rayl spent the Holidaystogether and took turns beatingup on one another on the links. Both men are working on theirgames for next fall. Mike andAnn Torreano had familyhome forthe Holidays. Chattedwith DustySwanson—he is out ofthe flyingbusiness at FEDEX and now mans a desk. He has to carry a mobile phonewithhim becausehe is on call all the time. This distraction is definitelyhurtinghis golfgame—he wants lots of STROKES!

Mike andMelissa Huberhadthe chance to spoiltheirbeautifulgranddaughter over Christmas when son Charlie, ’97 and his wife, Susan, visited them in beautiful Switzerlandwhere Mike is working for Proctor and Gamble.

ThePhantom Shows a LittleLove.

I will closewith a heads-upregarding our class gift at the Reunion next year. I knowMike Torreano, TooeyEmery and GaryDahlen are lookingfor an appropriategift to theAcademy on behalfofour class. It will be hard to top our last gift—areplica oftheWarMemorial at Doolittle Hall—but I am confident these men will come upwith a memorablegiftfromthe ClassofSeventy. Please get start gettingtheword out to our classmates aboutthe Reunion—we aren’t getting anyyounger and we need to have max participation.

Have a great spring! Make sure you vote forWild Bill Stealey for the AOG Board ofDirectors!

Paul D. Knott

5565 Lantana Drive

Colorado Springs, CO 80920

H: (719) 570-9162

W: (719) 594-0100

E-mail: pknott@acninc.net

Welcome to the first column ofthe NewYear! As Class Scribe, and as a local grad, I have received several e-mails and a letter about a group called theAOG ReunificationCommittee. Ifyouhaven’theardaboutthem, theyandthepresent board disagree aboutthe compositionoftheboard. Ifyou are interestedinthe discussion, check out the newAOGWeb site (www. USAFA.org), and read up in this issue about theAOG board election. Get the facts, and vote.

This quarter was kind ofslim in the class news area. Locally, Mike Leahy is expandinghisActive Release techniques from sports medicine into the corporate health area, teaching otherhealth care professionals howto treat—ideally, to prevent the workplace-related injuries that cost businesses and workerslosttime andmoney. Onecompanythathasadoptedhismethods saw workers’ compensation outlaysplummet.

Another classmate making a biglocal impact is Charlie Lucy. He appeared on our local cable channel in December, making a logical andlow-key case for the U.S. militarybeingready and able to defend our interests in space.

J.D. McBrietyhad a Flybystorythat dovetailedwith the obituaryofCol (Then Major) McGinn.WhenVandenberg’sglassexploded, Major McGinn caught a shard ofglass inhis neckwhichnarrowlymissed an artery.J.D. also mentioned the OrangeCountychapteroftheAssociation ofGraduates andtheirschedule.

John Lesher recentlyretired from Delta.

AndyCeroni’s son Andrewrecentlygraduated from Basic at LacklandAFB. Andy’s account; “I wore a new uniform, shoes, shirt, tie, insignia, wheel cap and all—I was so pretty I looked likethesecondcomingofGeneralMacArthur. Trudi and I were seated inthefront row ofthe DVreviewingstand. It was a strangefeelingwith peoplefalling over themselves to salute me. Bythe end ofthe day, I was prepared to wear the uniform againpermanently iftheyasked me. With Dad in the reviewingstand and everybodyknowingit,youngAndy loved it; he called me his ‘BufferZone’. It was a gas. We stayed in SanAntonio fournights and took son Andy out to the RiverWalk,Alamo, expensive meals, etc., etc., etc.”

Andreaand I spent aweekinVirginiawhen Sean hadthroatsurgeryto reduce his sleep apnea. This was Andrea’s first planetrip since the bionic knees went in, and the check-ins went relatively well. One lady in Newport News was convincedthatAndreahad to besmugglingball bearings, or elseshe was composing a concerto forTheramin; I hadn’theard so much electronic tones since “The Daythe Earth Stood Still.” Anyhow, the surgeryhas gone well, Sean is recovering, and will probablybe offto his next assignment by the time you read this.

Soon Springwill be here, and lots ofthings will be happening in your lives. Let the class (which means, let me) knowabput some ofthem.

Sabre Society Donors

Bob Bell

13 Pacific Ave.

Sinking Spring, PA 19608

(610) 678-3182/Fax: 678-4513

E-mail: rabell767@aol.com

Hello and Greetings for a Happy2005 to all ofyou in the Class of’72. As we embark on a new season one can onlywonderwhat this yearwill bring. At least for now though, there are just a few notes and highlights to pass on for your consideration and/orentertainment.

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In the firste-mail ofOctober, Ed (Shelley) Bishop sends his regards from the Believer’s Palace in Baghdad, Iraq where he stood after letting the might of American airpowerdrop a couple ofbunkerbusters through the dome andotherparts ofone ofSaddam’smanyhouses... The Parsons Corporation forwhom Edworks is involved in the Iraqi reconstruction effort, and he went in with a small team to provide assistance in executingtheproject-as he explains, ldnd oflike camping indoors on a live fire range! Ed’s longexperiencewith Parsons spanning over 11 yearsled to his beingofferedtheposition asVicePresident,ManagerofProject Controls for the Parsons Infrastructure and Technology Group,necessitatingamovelfomhislongtimehome (17years) inNorthernVirginia to Pasadena, CA. Inlayman’sterms,whatitmeans isthatEd managesthestaffthatcontrolsestimates,budgets andschedulesoftheprojects.

So as Edreadjusts to lifein SouthernCaliforniawhereheinitiallylivedbefore USAFA, Shelleymakesherfirstadjustment to “lifeinparadise.” He neverthought he’dbebackthereagain, butthenhe never thoughthe’d begoingto Iraqeither...

Next to be heard from is Gary (Lynn) Kito with another annual photo of himself, Harry (Terry) Calcutt and Jim (Beverly) Livingston who were once again in attendance atVail, CO lastJune for some more ofthat greatfun sport known as lacrosse. Harry suffered a broken clavicle on the fields offriendly strife while Gary suffered a severelybruised sternum which took two months to heal - the injurycausedby a helmet spear. Jimcheeredthe others on, and according to Gary, his being the smartest ofthe group, suffered no injuries. Nowlast I checked, most ofyou guys are pushingyourmid-50s or so, and I’m not too sure this is whatwould be called “fun” anymore, Gary, so I think I’d go withJim on this one!

Harry,GaryandJim

Shortlythereafter came an emailfollowedup bytheactualphotosfrom Dave (Sharon) Newill showing him attending the NationalAviation Hall ofFame Dinner this past summer alongwith LGEN Bill (Marilyn) Looney. Also present was Garald “Robbie” (Kathy) Robinson who sadly, missed the photo op with Bill and Dave. Highlights ofthe evening were the other guests to include for entertainment Dennis Quaid, actor and pilot (“Flight ofthe Phoenix”), as well

Bill and Dave

as thehonored enshrinees, formerApollo astronaut BillAnders and air show headliner/three-timeU. S. NationalAerobatic ChampionPattyWagstaff. Presenters forthis event were FrankBorman and ChuckYeager, both ofwhom, of course need no introduction. Patty also spent some time with Dave at the NationalAviation HeritageTrophyInvitational, where theyjointly awarded the Rolls-RoyceTrophyforthe Best RestoredAircraft - Eastern Division.

Dave also reports that he got to spend time on the other side ofthe USAFA classroom - teaching! He was a guestspeakerforthe SystemsManagementand Aero Propulsionstudents in October. When not busytravelingforRolls-Royce as Director of Military Marketing, where he regularly runs into Pat (Jane) Garvey(Boeing,), atconferences - orworkingon theSoaringSocietyofAmerica Board ofDirectors, he can befound flyinghisASW-15 in theskies over Indiana.

Late Novemberbrought an e-mailfrom Ron (Diana) Richards updatingwhat he’s been up to since retiring. Ron continues a 10-yearteachingstint in Mt. Dora, FL - a little town one hour north ofOrlando. He has gotten his first two kids (Kristi and Kari) throughcollegewith their Master’s degreesalready - one in engineering and the other in nursing. He has two others still in collegeKatie at Calvin College, Grand Rapids, MI, andJoshua at Marymount University,Alexandria,VA. Then there is Sara still in high school. Diana continues to teach kindergarten and theyremain married alreadythese 30years. Besides teaching, Ron coachesvolleyball (his team’s bestyear ever going 18 and2, only losingthe two to the eventual state champion team,) and officiates (umpiring) softball all over the southeast coveringgamesforthe SEC, MEAC and Sunshine Stateconferences.

In December, an e-mail appeared from Mike (Jan) McNerney, first ofall expressing his personalcongratulations to Dave (Susan) Wagie for a job well done on his tenure as Dean ofthe Faculty at USAFA. I echo Mike’s sentiments that no one else could have done a betterjob as he represented theAcademy well, making us all proud as classmates and friends for thework he accomplished. Mike (andI’m sure manyofus) wisheshe couldhave madeit to Dave’s retirement ceremony.

Mike andJan

As for Mike’s own life, his current assignmentis the Master Plan for George Bush IntercontinentalAirport in which he is planning for the next two runways. His actualtitle is stillAssociateVice PresidentforDMJMAviation in Fort Worth, TXwhere he is an airport consultant responsible forAirportPlanning and Engineering. His son has graduatedwith his Master’s from GeorgiaTech and his daughterwith her Bachelor’s from Arizona. That should bring to an end hopefully, 14 years oftuition payments to include his own as well. Jan has startedher own mortgagebrokerage business in Dallas andwill be

EdBishop at theBeliever’sPalacein Baghdad.

happyto givegood deals to members oftheAcademyfamily. As avid UniversityofTexas sports fans forbaseball, football and basketball, theirfamilyhighlight this season was a familytrip to the Rose Bowl. Mike keeps in touchwith Pat (Victoria) Burke, who was one ofthose several Delta pilotstakingearly retirement. Boy, I kindofwish I coulddo thatsometimes! Andlastly, Mikeisthe firstunsolicited testimonial forthe newAOGwebsite (seebelow), with hopes that itfosters better communication with classmates.

Thankyoufrom me to you, LGEN Mike (Pam) Dunn, on yourremarksvia email. I do appreciateyourappreciation ofthe efforts that go into this column, which again, comes together a whole lotbetterwith anyand all inputfromyou guys... which reminds me: Bill (Sandra) Hemphill-ifyou are still speaking to me, I need to hearbackfromyou regardingtheweddingpicture andstoryI lost when this darn computercrashed lastyear. I promise to putyourupdate into the next issue! I even get the occasional phone message (which counts, too)most recentlycomingfrom Chris (Karen) Rubacha regarding a previous edition of Checkpoints, so I knowthat even the silent amongyou do often read what is put down here.

Before signingoff, I am reminded to solicityourinterest in making sure you vote inthe upcomingAOG Board election. Speakingofthe newAOGwebsite, you are invited to check it out at http://www.usafa.org. That being said, I have no more to add, so once again - be safe out there and thanks forreading! EP.A.

Bob Munson 19245 Lincoln Green Lane Monument, CO 80132 (719) 487-1464 rmunson@adelphia.net

SQUADRONNOTES: Wayneand PattiHolumgathered news on CS-02 Deuce mates from their home in Tempe;Wayne is back safelyflying for SWA after having a brain tumor removed over a year ago. Theycelebrated the arrival of grandchild #1 in October. Bill Rake also flies for SWA out ofLasVegas and Gwynteachesthirdgrade. RandyVeenstra (Debra) andMarkRalston (Bonnie) hail from the upperAtlantic states and flyfor United andAmericanAirlines, respectively. Gary Dutelle (Sherri) also flies forAA but chose to live in Fort Collins. RandySage and Nancyleft the Pentagon area for Peachtree City, GA where he now flies for Delta. Rather than haul passengers, Bill McKenzie (Tonia) flies as ProductionTest PilotforBoeing out oftheirWashington State facility. Chip and Sue Frazier will likely have grandchild #4 at press time; Chip works for Coreslab Structures Inc: “Whodathunk—Squadron Safety Officer in ’72 to Safety Coordinator30 years later!”

Chris (Nancy) Derryis President ofthe BluegrassInstitute, “Kentucky’s free market research think tank.” Chris’ “Seven Principles ofSound PublicPolicyforKentucky” (ontheweb) is thought-provoking. Fellow Kentuckian and author Don Rightmeyer (Bonnie) awaits a publishing decision on his historyofthe Civil War in that state. This retired F-4WSO now loves beingreference librarian at the BoyleCountyLibrary. Mike Smith (Dianna) teaches elementaryschool in FortWorthwhileTom Swertfagerteaches math (and Susan is theschoolnurse) forWest High School’s mightyVikings in Bakersfield, CA. Also educatingyoung minds is Jim Callard (Buzzy) who teaches Foreign Policy at Durango’s Fort Lewis College. Clay Stewart (Nancy) “violated [his] principles ofretirement and teaches two courses in statistics at Colorado Mountain College.”

There’s a varietyofDeucers in medical careers: Phil DeBruin (Maryann) got his MS in PhysicalTherapyfrom SUNYand treats outpatients in Rome, NY; Jo

and Brian Beard, PhD, call Silver Spring, MD home where he does FDAtesting ofmedical devices and is an expert on evaluatingcellphoneradiationexposure; JackBlack (Dee) defends the good guys in Phoenix as a medical malpractice defenselawyer. BobSummers (Kathy) leftDTRAasaBrigGen tojointheArgonne National Laboratory as a DeputyDirectorin Idaho Falls. Bob Bolton (Lana) is the shaftofthe spear as ChiefofMissionSupportDCMAin Redmond,WAwhile LesVanHeeswyk (Debra) works as a defense contractor at LangleyAFB. Rocky Awento (Lorraine) is a SystemsEngineerforLockheed-Martin inDownington, PA; Steve Dalrymple (Kim) consultswith Booz-Allen-Hamilton in O’Fallon, IL, and Tim Galvin (Joan) works as a managerwith MCI in Raleigh, NC. With all these successfulclassmates, KeithHitzeman andAssociates, (Debbie;Vacaville, CA) have plentyofprospects forfinancial consultations.

Rob Mitchellprovided a nice update on his Blackjackbuddies fromhome in Gillette,WYwhere he runs that state’s computer network. Didyou see CS-21, as outstandingcadetsquadronfor2004, marchin the inauguralparade? Active fliers include Stan Osborne (Kathye) who remained in Lubbockafter a squadron commander tour to flyfor Southwest. Bill Beck (Cheryl) does long commutes from Melbourne, FL to fly as 747 CaptainforCathayPacific; he reportedlydodged the SARS bullet lastwinter. Greyson Morrow runs a flight operations business in Minnesotaandis alleged to still flyhelicopters. According to the Illinois BusinessJournal, Mike Spehar is a ‘Civil ReserveAir Fleet transportation specialist’; since retiring Mike has remainedwith TRANSCOM in the Belleville area. Vince Noto (Julie) developstrainingfortheJoint Strike Fighter out ofhis Crystal City, VA office. Bill Rosenberg (Joanne), VP for business developmentwith Diebold, is likelyhappythatall the Diebold electronicvoting machinesworkedwithout a hitch in the last election.

Dr GaryPrechter (Margo) is practicingpulmonarymedicinewithWest CarolinaChest Consultants and sends the occasional thoughtfulletter on medical ethics to medicaljournals. After 17years ChrisTaravella (Kathleen) isVice President/General CounselforDaimlerChryslerServicesNorthAmerica. What’s his favorite car? Don’ttell CEO JurgenSchrempp buthe still has his 1972 Malibu. Another formerAF JAG, Conrad Baldwin, missed our 30th reunion to move to Kansas Citywherehe focuses his practice on awidevarietyofproductliability, aviation, construction and complexcommercial cases. John Cotton (LaNae) and Bill Goetzworkin Denver as TSTInfrastructure engineers, which specializes in water treatment, municipal civil engineering and systems operation. Reverend PeterBrechbuhl (Ann) followed a calling to the ministryafterleaving theAirForce; he’s nowpastor at Salem Lutheran Church inJacksonville, Illinois. Carl Crites (Frances) just retired from Shell Oil to the Dallas area. After leaving HQ ACC Bart Dannels (Sharon) stayed in southernVirginia. John Hinkle (Lynette) teaches math and coaches golf (his true avocation?) in Mascoutah HighSchool, home ofthe mightyIndians,just outsideofScottAFB. The HonoluluStarBulletin, dated4July2004,reported onArmyNationalGuard dentist Mark Chun (Judy) in Iraq. Mark had sent a request home for basic dental supplies to provide to Iraqis. Relatives and co-workers in his Kailua practicepitched in to send a shipment ofmore than2,000 toothbrushes, 1,000 tubes oftoothpaste,gloves, rinses and small equipment.

STILL SERVING UPDATE: Col Mark Chun is now back from Iraq, and Sgt Rowe Stayton will be soon; he writes: “I will be DEROSing the firstweek in March... [and] willbe on ordersuntil around the firstofMay...Anyone need an infantryman with legal experience?” After 24 years in the Colorado Guard, BGen Mike Edwards (Laury) is now 140th Wing Commander at Buckley overseeing a diverse range ofmissions; his unit recentlyreceived theAF OutstandingUnitAward. Dan O’Hollaren has been selected for BGenwith the Oregon Guard and hopes to be nominated/approvedbylate spring... we’ve got our Visit the NEWAOGWeb Site.

Merchandise, Gone But Not Forgotten and More! www.usafa.org

CS-02:In backare BobSummers, ChrisDerry, BillMckenzie, WayneHolum, RandySage, BillRake, and Tom Swertfager. Middle: Tim Galvin, JayRogers, BrianBeard, RockyAwento, andMarcusBolton. Front:JackBlack, ClayStewart, Steve Dalrymple, andJim Callard.

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CS-21: RobMitchell, GaryPrechter, VinceNoto, Chris Taravella andSpencer Way.

fingers crossed. Steve Diehlwill be retired at press time; he andJulie were on theirway toWest Palm Beach to celebrate.

ColMarkChun anddentalassistantSPCElizabethJarryout on MedicalCivil Action Program. Inset: Markdoeshis thing to win the ‘hearts andminds.

ODDS & SODS: Darla writes that Mike Davenport, on a United trip, finds leavingthe USAF “somewhatregrettablewith all the paycuts.” Carl Dofelmier (Diane) isretiredfromtheUSAF andDeltaand commutesbetweenhomes in Salt Lake Cityand Portland. Chris and Claire Flynn have been inAustin for 16years whereheis abusiness unitmanagerfor a semiconductorequipmentfirmandshe runs a parent-educationbusiness. Justpriorto his 2004 Reserve retirementKen Volkman deployed one lasttime in tankers to France (hardship tour awayfrom UPS) insupportofSWAaction. Don McMillan also retiredfromthe Reservesand, untilhegetshisfirstcheck, fliesforUSAir... atleastforthis month. JohnForeman is ChiefEngineer at the Carnegie Mellon Software Institute, andregrets he only managedl,100milesonhisbikelastyear. RecentlyretiredChaplainRogerWinburg remained in Beaver Creek, OH andhasjoined a startup that offers an innovative approach to the treatment ofautism.

73 CLASS COMMITTEE NOTE: We’ve collected over $500,000; the most successful class giftcampaign inAOG history; now they’reusing our communications model for all future alumni giving. John Muse gave a matchinggift and secured Ross Perot as a keynotespeakerforthisyear’s National Character and Leadership Symposium, 23-27 February (Howard ‘Mitch’ Mitchell/Mike Turner/TrapperCarpenter/Spider Richardson send).

AOGNOTES: #1: theAOGhasanewwebsite,www.usafa.orgthatyoushould bookmark; #2: educate yourself on issues raised by the “AOG Reunification Committee”, or ARC (www.aogrc.org/go/), that is pushing for a general election to amend theAOGbylaws; #3: regardlessofyourposition on #2 you should vote in the current AOG Board election.

Joe Brezovic

1209 Bayou Oaks Drive Friendswood, TX 77546

H: (281) 482-6860

0: (281) 244-8325/Fax: (281) 244-8909

E-mail: jbrezovic@houston.rr.com joseph.brezovicl@jsc.nasa.gov

Hello Classmates!Welcome to thisfirst issue ofa grandyear! Forthose 286 or so classmates who attended the reunion, you made it a specialgift to all ofus! A gracious and elaborate “thankyou” goes toTed Rothwho was voted in to lead the next reunion! Responding to our invitation, GeneralA.P Clark attended the Memorial Servicewith us. Manyofyouleftyouremailaddresseswithme. Thank you! I didn’tsaythey are accessible throughtheAOG homepage. I’ve asked Dino Schweitzer to update the list. I apologize deeply ifyou do not want it on the web... we’ll correct whatyou let us know, forevermore!

BillandTerryCasement are in FtWorth. Theyhaven’tstayed there all year though. Skiing in Colorado with John Jones was one event! Other visits include El Paso, Nashville and Athens, Greece. As for Bill’s L1011 piloting, he was shuttling troops to/from the desert, but, well, the company’s filing Chapter 11 will probably affect him.

Dale and GinnyBurchby are well in San Diego! Dale is still withNorthrop Grumman as a department technical director (software).Ginnyworkswith hersewingmachineforschool outfits and puts miles on theirminivanwith daughterValerie for the National CharityLeague. AndValerie is doinggreatphotographyworkforschool andhas time to be on the H.S. competitioncheerleadingsquad. Ken is a freshman at AmherstCollege, in Massachusetts. Melanie, at LoyolaMarymount, is enjoying being a theatermajor—playingin a Neil Simonplayatschoolandotherproductions.

John and CherylEphland sent a note. John is stillwith FirstLineTransportation Security at Kansas City IntAirport. He and Cheryl are also still active withAWANA. They came as farsouth as FtWorth, Texas. Cheryl is recovering from cancer, again. But all is well and they are happy. The familypic shows their daughter Becca, her husband, Rocky, and their son Matthew, in front.

Joe andJoyKelley are still in theAF (BG), live at BollingAFB, andvolunteer at their church. Their son Tim and his wife are working in Japan teaching English and business. Their other daughter, Jes, was a speaker at her college (Taylor) on cultural diversity! .Joe andJoywelcome D.C. visitors to visit them.

Jim and Helen Shamess sent a Christmasletter, too. Jim retired from theAF and had to find a payingjob. He was kind to Helen—givingher a surprisegift: a leafvacuum that speeds up yard cleanup from eight hours to five hours! Their son Jeffis in theAF, services, in Europe with their granddaughter. Another son, Joe, started in Navypilottraining. Other son, Jonn an AFA C3C, is getting better grades than Jim! Denny and Lin Hughes write a letter from Omaha area. Their son Neal is an AF Intel captain—but Neal and his wife, Cami, and son are in South Carolina! Denny’s two granddaughters live closer with their son Nate and hiswife, Alisha. Son Brianworks part-time as a phlebotomist. Tamara still leads retail sales in her spa/salon. Lin is department chair in nurse teaching. Dennystill travels to supervise bank construction/ maintenance throughout several states.

Rich and Peggy Bowman have gone through several states, too. However, the major difference is that they take their motor home with them. Breckinridge, COS, Chicago (FrankLloydWrighthome and museum), Maryland, South Carolina’s Retired Military GolfClassic, and other hikes through NewBrunswick, Nova Scotia and Newfoundland... and I left out a fewother places... Peggystillworks with the loom. As for Rich, well, his response to a challenge from a niece who does well in tennis “Old age and cunning beats youth and skill anytime.” He won. It took three days for his muscles to heal! Bill VanHorn lives in Littleton, CO. He also retired this year. Bill signed up when he was 17! Anyofyou remember those days? Part ofBill’s last hurrah include five months planning with U.S. and Canadian officers the daily air defense flyingthroughtheU.S. Bill’s sons BlairandLee are inH.S. takingweightliftingandwrestling. Theladswrestlewithintheirweightdivision to determine who goesvarsitythatweek. When Bill asked Blairifhe was a betterwrestler or strongerthanhis opponent, Blairsaid“Neither, Ijustwant to win more." In one wild match, the opponent21, Blair 23. Lee blewout his knee cap in a match— surgeryandphysicaltherapyfollowed. He healed. Godis good, Bill wrote. Lee captured the title ofChatfield High School‘OutstandingFreshmanWrestler’.

Mike and Susan Malizola sent the picture below oftheir family, Carolyn, Julie andJeremy. Theylive inTampa, FL. They even met with Dennyand Pam Lyons several timeswho also live in theTamp area. It is so greatforclassmates to meet and booster life energies!

Dave andVictoria Reinholz did theirpart to extend the tradition. Dave did research on the exact words oftheToughTwentyTrolls fight song. The patch was designedbyhis roommate, RonWatson, who used as a modelJohn Sciacca because ofhisweightliftingandlikeness to Lou Ferrignowho playedthe Hulk. [There are too manywords to putithere. TheAOGlimits the numberofwords and pics I can use each quarter.] Steve andMargie Daniels wrote in, too. Their son Steve is in the Guard and finishingcollege. DaughterStephanie is an AF pilotrefueling our aircraft in the skies over Iraq. Steve isworkingwith acornpany to leverage our force structure bytrainingwith logistics appropriately coded into the scenarios.

Chris and Linda Lanzit sent an email picture album. “Wishing you all a happy and harmonious 2005 bywayofWhitsunday Island and a fewdays in Sydney. Greatget-awayfrom coldBeijing. Finished upwiththree daysin Sydney where we even hiked across the famous Harbour Bridge. Best wishes.

Chris andLinda Lanzitin Australia.

Rick Boyd sent in a 30-year summary ofhis lifewith Jeannine. Rickdid F-4 flying first then back to AFA ’81-’86 in the Poli Sci faculty. Back to F-4s in the Philippines, then to the Pentagon. Then a stint to Naples, Italyfor Bosnia air and ground ops. Then toACC Intel. Then the Last Hitch, hewrites: “I spentthe last fiveyears ofmy career in attache training, French languagetraining, and in Ottawa representingthe DoD and theAF andhaving a greattime.” Jeannine is French Canadian, and they met during a choir trip we had as cadets. Rick nowworks forSAIC in the Stratcom arena, hopingto take root there in Norfolk, VA. Son Brad is now in his second year ofmedical school, studying at the Chicago College ofOsteopathic Medicine. DaughterAimee and her family (include two granddaughters) live 45 minutes away! .Igottago. Please be sure to vote fortheAOGboardandcheck out the newAOGweb site: www.usafa.org. Email me! Mayyou live long and prosper!

Paul Kent

18166 S.E. 41st Place Issaquah, WA 98027-9717

Mobile: (425) 785-3586

E-mail: zooscribe@mac.com

NEWSCRIBE. After a highlyrigorous and competitive search, I have been bestowed the honor of“TemporaryScribe Until SomeoneWithActualTalent Is Found”. And myego will not be diminishedjust because no one else even volunteered. Yes, we all tookfor granted thatJeffHackettwould be “Scribe for Life.” But after20years, the man does deserve the breakhe has asked for. All I ask for is a little empathy in my attempt to replace a man whose wit and penmanship cannot be matched. Actually, Gentlemen, I askfor one more thing: Information. You see, I am embarrassed to sayI do not remember all ofus. Yes, Ihave readJeff’s missives aboutallofour highs andlows; and sadly, some names and faces do not sound familiar. In fact, at our 20th Reunion, whenDean Spraggins crouched down and did three circles around me before rhetoricallyand embarrassinglyasking “Paul?”, I knew that maybe I looked different, too. Jeffprobablyknows every name and some information about each ofus. Thankfully, in this day ofelectronic communication, you can send me updates and pictures ofyour life and anyof our classmate’s life that are too lazy (well, let’s sayhumble) to send anythingin. Send me stuffearly and often to zooscribe@mac.com. Ah, I’ll betyou’vejustmemorizedthat one, youold geezer. Even thoughyou mayforgetyourweddinganniversary, I know you will never forget zooscribe@mac.com for the rest ofyour life. So, even if it is only a one-sentence update: send it in, boys.

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formativetraininginthemid 1970s.As thebulkofus havelefttheservice ofour country, it is great to hearabout contributions likeVito’s.

SmallWorld Department: From JeffChappell: I arrived (at the Cincinnati airport)... On mywayout ofthe airport, I saw a ladywearing a distinctive black parkaemblazoned “USAFA75”. I askedherwhere she gotit, and she saidfrom herhusband, and I said “And he is?” You could have knocked me over with a featherwhen she replied“SandyTerry.” Theywere sending a daughter back toBYU...”

JackKummerfeld, succumbed to cancer on 19 Oct 2004 in Cocoa, FL. Condolences maybe sent to: Mrs Sun Kummerfeld, 1960 LitdePineAve, Cocoa, FL 32926-3464.

From the “howweird is this?” category: From DuaneJones: Duane Lodrige is the deputycommander oftheJTF—Armed Forces Inaugural Committee http://www.afic.army.mil/. As such he will be leadingthe Inaugural Parade, and in particular the Presidential Escort Detail as it steps offfrom the U.S. Capitol east steps on 20 Jan. Less significant, but certainlyadding to the ’75 flavor, will be myrole marchingdirectlybehind him for the same event. So what are the chances that 100% oftheAirForceofficers in theInauguralParade JointArmed Forces Staffwould be ’75 guys named Duane?

CLASSMATE UPDATES. Mike Goyden (squadron nickname “Vito”) was selected Colorado Coach oftheYearwith an undefeated High School boy’s soccer championship team which was nationallyranked#8. His High School girl’s soccer team had its best season ever with its third consecutive league championship. This is the same Colorado state where we spentfouryears of

US. Since this is my first column (and since I have zilch for input) I am obligated to retrospectivelyanalyzewho I am penning to and about. I believe we still hold the dubious record forgreatest attrition from a MilitaryAcademy for a four-year course. Butwhy? “Who cares?” you muse. Yes, but on withit. Certainly, the ending ofthe unpopularViet Nam war before our 2nd ClassYear contributed. But startingwith the late ’60s and acceleratingin the early ’70s, there truly was a “Peace, Love, and Hare Krishna” prevalence in our society. Everybodyhadlonghairand was smokingpot. Wejust didn’tfitin, and a lot of us left, physically or emotionally. For the trulystrong in character (not me), we are better off. Those were fourtoughyears we went through; tougherfor some than others. Andwhere are we now? We’ve lost some. Others are sick. Wehave Generalsandclassmatesthat were court-martialedand senttojail. We havemillionairesandclassmatesthatlivehand-to-mouth. Wehaveclassmates that look still looklikeAdonis, and others that are overweight, bald, and ugly. And I am not talkingjustabout me. Somehavebeen divorced more than once. Others are lifelong bachelors. Some are grandparents manytimes over. Others have infants. But we all have one thing in common: We attended an allmale militaryacademyat thebase oftheRampartRangein theearly 1970s. And that iswho I will respectivelyaddress this column to. Well, maybe not always respectively, but always“heartily.”

From left are BillAshcraft, BillMurray, Tom Udalland GregBerlan in Fort Worth,July4,2004.

past), you may not be aware that for all things “Zoo-like”, there is a new web site, www.usafa.org. You will need your graduation ID (75xxxx) to register. Ifyou don’t know it or can’t find it, I’ll make you a deal: Send me some info, a story, or something about you or a classmate, and I’ll email your graduation ID to you. You mayhave forgottenyourgraduationID, butyou’ve memorized your class scribes email address for the rest ofyour life. And once you log in, you can search for all those lost classmates that owe you money, and get in contact with them. Please be sure to vote in the upcomingAOG election

30th REUNION. Speakingofbeing owed money, this eventwould be a good place to collect. I attach thefollowingfrom ScottHente, who is organizingthis gig. This was actually sent June 26th oflastyear:

1) Doyouwant to pushfor a reunion as earlyinthefootball season as possible?

2) Do we have to have the reunion coincidewith a football gameweekend?

3) Wouldyou be in favorofa summer reunion (no footballbut plentyoftime for golf, sightseeing, trips around Colorado, etc)?

4) Whatdoyouthinkshould bethe appropriate amount ofmoneythatshould be required/collected for the “normal" events (class dinner, class reception, tailgate (assuming a football game), goodiebags, etc.?

5) Do you want the reunion hotel to be close to USAFA or can we be a little farther away (still in Colorado Springs) ifwe can get a great deal or theyput together a reallyattractive package?

Please respond back to me (Scott) withyourpreferences based on the questions. Based on what I hopewill be a large response indicatingpreferences, please put the following in the subject line: “USAFA 7530 year reunion”. You may e-mail me back at 75reunion@adelphia.net, call me at (719) 593-0942, or write me at Scott Hente, 2760 Brogans BluffDr., Colorado Springs, CO 80919.

Also, Bill Estelle is looking for pictures for a slide show. Email him with questions at williamestelle@mac.com. Orjustsend a CD ofpicture files (with explanations) to LarryBryant: LarryW. Bryant, Director, Academic Computing, 2354 Fairchild Dr, Suite 3F19, USAFA, CO 80840,719-333-3994

ANECDOTE. Not a lot for this column. I wasn’thonored with this position till January 6th eve with a January 10th deadline. You’ll probably find some lame excuse from me at the end ofeverycolumn until I amjustifiablyrelieved ofduty. Hopefully, after a well deserved rest, our “Scribe For Life” Jeffwill return. Until the next column, “SeventyFive BestAlive”. That’s 30 years ago if you’re counting. Yikes! zooscribe@mac.com

Dan Beatty

12196 Stanley Canyon Road Colorado Springs, CO 80921

H: (719) 488-1962

E-Mail: whrlybrd76@aol.com

Dan.Beatty@usafa.af.mil

http://www.AFAcademy.com/76

Fellow ’76ers, Springis in the air at USAFAand Firsties thoughts turn to... lOOthNight! Class of2005 is beginning to see the light at the end ofthe tunnel and it’s mebbe not another train coming at them. Ahhhhh... the memories...

Firstofall, some AOGbusiness. I urgeyou tovote inthe upcomingAOGBoard election. Showyourinterestin ourAssociation affairsbyvoting. AndI also invite youto checkout thewebsiteatwww.usafa.org; root around intherefor a bitand see some ofthe niftythings it has to offer.

30th Reunion: Markyour calendar for 8-12 November 2006. (it’s the target but not locked in yet) for now. Tentative schedule shows Notre Dame game, and since it is a three-dayweekend (Veterans Day) it may give more ofyou some schedulinglatitude. I’ve been able to meet/chatwith several classmates about this plan and almost all concur. Consensus is to base at theAntlers again. Several ’76ers indicate a willingness to work on the committees. I know we all appreciate those gents stepping up. Ifyou have inputs, call or email me. Monty Leewill putsomething on the class web site.

From the masses: Don Hall says his latest book, “More Secret Life ofWaldo F. Dumbsquat” is now available online. Check outwww.authorhouse.com/BookStore ifyou’re so inclined. Mike Fricano, ever the prolific e-mailer, sent word thatJack Catton pinned on his 2nd star, Kevin F. Henabray (MA to director, Plans and Programs, HQACC) and Brian Meenan (MAto director, Air and Space Operations, HQ USAFE) Bothhavebeennominated fortheirfirst star. Congratsgents! Jackwas in town a while back and he, I, Bill Hobart, Russ Laney, Joe Wysocki, Win Macklin, Mick Erdle, Tom Bowie, and JeffFord were all able to link up for a brewand a bite. I was also able to breakfast with JeffBecker a fewdays later. Good to see you all!

ErnieWoollardwrote saying“life in the Floridapanhandle is grand” and that daughter Sarahjustcompleted Navypilottraining at Corpus Christi. She’s headedforP-3s at NASJacksonville. Congrats Sarah! Ernieincluded thefollowingphoto, andalsotold me he chattedwith LauraMcRoberts (daughterofWade

McRoberts) whose husbandis also in pilottraining at Corpus. Thanks Ernie.

The WoollardfamilyatSarah’s “Winging"ceremony, NASCorpus Christi.

TerryWilliams movedhis retirement date to 1 June 2005. He’ll be lookingfor an ITjob in the Montgomery area. TerrypingedDougFrywho wrote to sayhe is USAF rep for OPNET technologiesprovidingnetwork and application performance solutions; still married to the person who’s tolerated him for 27+ years; has three kids that are really now adults—Capt KaseyFry (Class of’00), KyleFry (future self-proclaimed CEO), and Cadet 1st Class Matt Fry (Class of ’05) the fighterpilot ofthe group; livingin South Denver and travelingaround theU.S. for OPNET and often in Colorado Springs at Peterson/SchrieverAFBs (Pete Field/Falcon foryou old farts); bought 55 acres west ofWalsenburg, “so come out and hunt, shoot and fishwith me, BYOB (bringyour own bullets)”. Gary‘Monty’Montgomerytells me he andJeffLarsen, both CS-03, havekept in touch over theyears. Jeffis bigwigPHD-typeworking at SAIC and forhimself(Larsen ConsultingLLC) with #1 son Peter a USAFA 2nd classman. Garyis a United pilot. Jefflatertells me he got Christmas cardsfrom Rich Carlson and Dick Davila. Bruce ‘Swez’ Swezey sent an address update and says all is well inWisconsin. He is still driving717sforMidwest. Bruce Nelson also sent a new addressfromWisconsin. Kevin ‘Chili’ Chilton is still at the Pentagonand makes itsoundlikehe ishaving more funthan a man shouldbe allowed to have. Keep me posted on your move Chili. Mike Yama’ Hoyes says Christmas was GREAT forthe Hoyeshouse; his oldest daughter is in theAir Force at PatrickAFB and gotmarried lastyear, andwill make Mike a grandfatherthisyear. Mike’syoungest daughter (nowsix) justhad herfirstpiano recital in December and the girls and his two sons keep him quitebusy.

John Rivera got a card from Greg Schnieder and wife, Kathy, with a great familymessageandpicture. Gregis a bighoncho at Grumman Corporation in Chicago. John saw DaveArbutinaandhiswife,Joyce, in State College, PAjust before Thanksgivingand he is doingwell as a general surgeon. John tells me Bruce Smith is an OrthopedicSurgeon in Cheyenne,WY. John hopes to travel there inFebruaryand showBruce a biologicalgluecapabilitythatJohnhelped invent and has usedwith both Dave Arbutina and Mike Eyolfson. John also says he ran into ClarkHinkel at the airport in Charlottewhere Clarkwas in the middle offlyingplanes on a trip for USAir, and that Don Nerge is still married to John’s sister, Teresa, in Eden Prairie, MN; is a manager in Information Systerns Group ofTennant Corporation; his daughteris a collegesophomore and his son is a high school senior. The whole Nergefamily are second and third degree blackbelts in Karate andTeresa actually runs the local Karate school. SuperupdateJohn! Thanks for all the info.

TonyPrzybyslawski hailed me from MPC in SanAntonio. Tells me he saw Tom Sefcik, an engineer in North Carolina. Tonyis theAFPC (MPC to us old farts) now and says “I have so many more friends now at AFPC then I did at AEFC... go figure!” Call Tony and see if he can help you all with your next assignment. BenThomsonsentanothergreatupdate. SaysGregWhaleystarted his own defense contractor business in the D.C. area; Ed Stevens still doingthe United flighttraining center thing; Kevin Henabraycopiloted the Delta 757 Ben flewfrom Sacramento to Salt Lake City on the wayback to Springs New years Eve; Kevin Leinbach, Wes (Mike) Smith, andJim Fisher are still kicking around at the JNIC SchrieverAFB, and Roc White is working forAerospace here in the Springs. Thanks Ben.

John Tomaszewskitells me he receivedmyemail message aboutARC issues and that he is consideringrejoining theAOG. Please do John. Ifnothingelse, it is a greatwayto stayconnected. SydMcPherson tells me he is slowlylooking for a second career afterretiringin Oct. He did some trips home toVermont to take care ofhis Mom, built a 50-foot stone wall and flagstonewalkway and played Mr. Mom while wife, Janet, went back toVermont to take care ofher parents. He wore mess dress one last time in December to the All Service Academy Ball for the metro D.C. area with son Matt (3 degree in Syd’s old squadron, Stalag 17). I also heard fromCarl Rebarchak, Charlie Morgan, Dave Berg, and Dave Robinsonwith short greetings and/ or quickquestions about AOGbusiness.

Time to wrap this up. Send me your thoughts on the reunion. As always, if you are headed to the Springs, let me or anyofthe otherlocals knowandwe’ll

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see ifwe can’tjoin up for a fewstories and updates. Keepflyingyourflags and let our deployed troops knowyou have them in your thoughts and prayers. The Spirit of76 is STILL alive andwell! Until next time... Beatty

John J “Lou” Michels, Jr.

4107 Harvey Western Springs, IL 60558

Voice: (312) 849-8150

Fax: (312) 849-8151

E-Mail:

jmichels@mcguirewoods.com

FREEZEFRAME: With several days already below zero this winter and an artic chill predicted this weekend, your humble narrator will be headed for the local Starbucks on a regularbasis. IfonlyMcDonald’s had not lowered the temperature ofits coffee as a result offrivolous litigation. Anyway, lots to get to this month.

FLAMETHROWER: At the end ofOctober, your friendly scribe made the news bywinning a permanentinjunction, shuttingdown the military’s involuntaryanthraxvaccination program. Manyofyou knowthat I have been involvedwith this matter for more than fiveyears and the court’svindication of our position was verygratifying. Alongwith myco-counsel, I ended up with a fewcomments in the WashingtonPost, AirForceTimes, and some others. We will see what happens on appeal. I also gotcited bythelocal Springs paper on the situation involvingthe formerAir Force TJAG, a truly unfortunate mess. So my fifteen minutes offame are just about up.

NO DOUBTABOUT IT: A1 Becker (Rita) fired offthis great shot ofa giant ’77 contingent at Randolph in December.

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Outsideofthereunionseveralyearsago, thisis thelargestgatheringoftheclass I have seen. Fromleftinthe back row are DutchRemkes (Susan);A1Becker, the Host (Rita);JoeBaumgartner(Patricia); RickPerraut (JoAnn); BryonMills (Mary Elian); and BruceBillig (Carol).Front row: Dave Swiger (Rhonda);TomQuelley (Susan);JerryHust (Sharon); GaryEllsworth; andScottHarrod (Anita). Believe it or not, allthesepeople are gainfullyemployed, manyofthemin closeproximity. Five work at HQAETC at Randolphwithin 50 feet ofeach other-Jerrywho works in LA, Rickwho is anXP guy, Bryon atXPR A1 atXPPB, and Scott atXPPF. GaryEllsworth who is attached at theXP Shop at the 12th FlyingTrainingWing andworking on thebase closure issues, gets in to see this group occasionallyto create a critical mass. JoeworksforUSAAandhas for over 20years in SanAntonio. A1 retired at the end ofthe2003 and is currentlyoverseeingall oftheAcademyairmanshipoperations. Bruce is a CaptainforSouthwest flyingoutofHouston;heandCarol are abouttobecomeemptynesters in Junewhen theiryoungestgraduates from college. Scottworks forCamberCorporation and is nowwriting“Aircraft Road Maps” forAETC. I am sureA1 or Scottwillwrite to enlighten me as to exactlywhy an airplane needs a roadmap, especiallywith allthe new highwaysignage thatis goingup. Jerry retired in December 2004 and is handling international training and education. Bryon is ChiefofPrograms while Maryellen teacheswritingfor an online universityprogram. Rick is now the Director ofPlans andPrograms and safelyreturned, as I noted earlier, from his stint at Qatar. Tom is a BG-select and DeputyDirector ofOperations. He and Susan will place their second daughter at TexasA & M this summer. Dave is the Boeing Site Manager at Randolph, upgradingT-38 Avionics. Dave andRhonda’s first son graduatedfromtheAcademyin 2002 and their secondwill graduate inJune ofthisyear. Dutch is theAir Force Recruiting Commanderwith onesonattheAcademygraduatinginJune and a daughter at Minot as an intel officer.

In addition to the folks in the picture, A1 updated me on George Bordon (Caryn), who isworkingfor Clarke American in SupplyManagement as aVice President in San Antonio; Jim Dart teaches at Marshall High School in San Antonio; John Reed (Vonice) retired in January ofthis year as the Reserve Advisor to AETC and has moved to 44 acres north ofReno. That probably looked prettygood until thisweek’s 19 feet ofsnow fell in the area. I am hoping thatJohn andVonice had an opportunity to hone their cross-county siding skills in SanAntonio. John is returning to the 777 withUnited out ofSan Francisco. JeffTomlin (Jongsun) is teachingspecial education at a middle school in San Antonio; Eric Treland (Margaret) is in charge ofall theAir Force aero

clubs worldwide in hisjob forAir Force Services; and Art Wachdorf (Lorrae) retired at the end of 2003 to work for Booz-Allen at the info war center at Lackland. Even thoughA1 promised me thisupdatelast summer, I must saythe wait was wellworth it. All the bestA1 andthanks forgettingeverybodytogether.

FANCYFOOTWORK: Jim Fraser (Karen) gave me a very complete update on what he and Karen have been doing and I offerthe Cliffnotesversion here. Jim’s entire career was spent in the Civil Engineeringworld, with almosthalf his time spent in Europe at all levels. Since he retired in 1997, he’s spent most ofhis time in LosAlamos at the National Lab. His specialtyis facility management andhe initiallymanaged an 800 million electronvoltlinearaccelerator (Jim notes that this device consumes 40% ofall electricity used in the county and burns electricity at the rate of$1 million dollars per monthmyteenage sons could give it a run for its money there). He now works as the facility’s manager for the Lab’s plutoniumfacility. No one can saythatJim shies away from positions with interesting nouns in the title. Jim is still playing saxophone forhis church and their two sons are now out ofthe house. Jim notes that Greg Beason (Cindy) and Mike Strevell (Nancy) are also at the facility. Greg is a division leader for the Internation, Space and Response Division (sounds like something out ofa “24” episode) while Mikeworks at the Project Management Division.

Jim and Karenvisited Dan and PaulaVanAlstine innorthernVirginia on one oftheirtrips. Pictured are Karen, Jim and Dan loungingoutside a coffee shop in Fredericksburg; I imagine Jim and Karen are examining the color green, which is in short supply in New Mexico. Thanks for the update, Jim and stay safe behind that double fence at the lab.

FANCYFOOTWORKII: JeffDetroye (Diane) finished his third Marine Corp Marathon (Jeffhas nine marathons total) in between his stints as the Deputy Directorfor IMINT at the NRO. AsJeffnotes, “less money, lots more fun... great people, interestingmission, and the CIA offers some entertainment value all byitself.” So ifJeff’s name has been somehowblanked out on this page bythe timeyou read it, you will knowwhy. Diane continues to work at NASA at the Headquarters in D.C. in between sessions ofrubbingJeff’s feet and patching blisters. I will have photos ofJeffin the next issue.

THINK IT OVER: TheAOG is going to be having elections this Springand I encourage all ofyou to reviewyour ballots and vote for the open board slots. I will withhold my comments concerning the controversy over AOG governance except to saythatI encourage all ofyou to participate inyourlocalAOG activities, check theAOG website atwww.usafa.org, and get informed about what is happening at theAcademy. TheAOG needs more involvement bythe graduatecommunity-financial, personaltime and effort, whathaveyou. Best wishes for a warm and successful winter. Be seeingyou.

Bob Kay

40411 Tesoro Lane

Palmdale, CA 93551

Home:(661) 274-2201

Work: (661) 824-6426

Email: Robert.kay@baesystems.com

(23 Sabre Society Donors)

(Editor’snote: Unfortunately, Bobhadhislaptopstolen anddidnothaveany news forthis quarter. Pleasesendhim yourinputandphotosforthenextissue.)

JOIN THE SABRE SOCIETY!

YOUR MONEYHELPS FUND CADETWING PROGRAMS THAT WOULD OTHERWISE GO UNFUNDED. CALL THE AOG FOR INFO.

Mike “Trash” Ashley

6383 Kabletown Road

CharlesTown, WV 25414

(304) 728-0274

trash79@adelphia.net

Greetings from wild andwonderfulWestVirginia! Thisyearculminates the silver anniversary ofthe golden boys and starts the trek toward the golden celebration. But for now, the events ofthe silver, named for the color of so many ofour hairs.

About 300 MightyFine Niners and their spouses and children were present for this year’s reunion. Not as large as the 20th but just as exciting. Some missingfrom the 20th were able to make this event. All had a greattime meeting old faces, reminiscing andjustenjoyingthevisit to USAFAafter so manyyears.

WednesdayandThursday were arrival days. Happyhour at theAntlers was justthat, a happyreunion as theranksbegan to swell. Thursdaygave an opportunity to luncheon inArnold Hall. Manymarveled at the technologyand large video screens in place. Things had trulychanged in the course of25 years. Even the table manners. We all retired back to theAnders for social gathering with food and friends.

Friday was a trulybusyday. The early hours found a largecontingent at the Eisenhower GolfCourse. Even a fewwives braved the elements to try their hand at the lack ofatmosphere. I guess everyone anticipated a shot likeAlan Shepard made on the moon. We were space cadets but this was NOT the moon. The wind howled and a fewdrops of water fell from passing clouds but the outlook called for sunnydispositions. I thinkI saw a fewsnowflakes. Horrors offiveyears ago were creepingin our minds. Buttheweather stayed west, except for thewind. Shots with the wind were inspiring and those against - were more like our normal games. We all managed to finish andfind afewprizesfor-the best and theworst. Thanks to KorkyVon Kessel fordoingthe initial setup and forMike Roller fortaking over and leading the whole event. Mike “Omar” Bradley braved the elements in a golf cart bringing cold beverages to our cold crowd. Omar doesn’t play so he gets the biggest thanks. Rollo’s company, Goodrich Corp., providedgolfballs for everyone, coolers and umbrellas. Tim Fydaprovidedcigars. Mac McCausland donated a golfbag and Rob Seamster gave a set ofladies drivers.

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Meanwhile, many non-golfers and their families attended the luncheon at Doolittle Hall, theAOG headquarters. Others attended lunch with the cadets at Mitchell Hall. The afternoon gave way to Open House in the Cadet Area.

Seeingthe old dorms and some new changes to Fairchild, memories gaveway to realize that times havetrulymoved on at Ole USAFA. Abriefingbythe Senior Staffin the F-1 auditorium gave insight to change and the future ofthe Cadet Wing. Later, we gathered at the steps ofthe pointybuilding at the north end of the terrazzo. The class photo took a while as one more filtered in, and then one more, and then one more and then... You get the picture.

Everyone returned to theAnders forthe Class Dinner. Dress up night! We all scrambledfortableswith friends and squadron mates. An invocation andtake seats gavewayto a verynicemeal. The class officersmade a fewremarks and a listofthankyous. While relaxing to desert, Korkypresented the class giftpitch and it requires more explanation that this article can devote. Staytuned for more details later. A deejayprovideddancing to music from, you guessed it, the ’70s! Disco still sucks. We closed the place down; theyturned on the lights as ifto say “go to bed." A fun but tiringday.

Goodweatherhungon as thewestern mountains sawheavysnow. Itwas a cool butearlytailgate on the west endofthe stadium. Food was plentybut room was tight. The Falcons get a biggercrowd these days than we were accustomed to. Unfortunately, thegamewas veryreminiscent ofthe Ben Martindays. Sadly, Ben passed awaythisyear. Give’mHell, Ben! You are trulyetched in our memories. TheFalcons were handilybeatenbyconferencerival BYU. Offto squadronpost games atvarious locations. Our thanks go out to thosewho live in the Springs area that opened theirhomes to classmates forthispartofthereunion.

Thanks to MikeVanHoomisen and the class officers forputtingthis 25th year gathering in motion. Special thanks go to Rob “Drugs” Robb for the initial groundwork, even while he was preparing to PCS to his newjob as Central Command Surgeon General. Thanks to KorkyVon Kessel forpickingupwhere Drugs left off. The reunion was a great success.

I sent out a request, viaGuyWills, for news from thosewho could not attend. Responses were minimal. From RandyFullhart: “Ijust took command ofAir Command and StaffCollege lastweek and so was unable to attend. Our son Stephengraduated from Indiana Universitythis summer and is now a television reporter in Texas. Mywife, Kathy, and I are ‘home alone’ now but having 585 students plusfaculty to lookaftermakes for a rewardinglyfull schedule. And from Mike Brill: “We had a vacation booked over a year ago. Mywife (Jean sister ofMark “Joe” Sollars) and I just got backfrom a week ofdiving in Fiji. Sure wished I could have made it, but I’m sure youwould agree that the alternative was a good reason to forego the reunion.

This message came fromJohnJogerst. “HihofromthewindycoastofFlorida. Spent the reunion doing Hurricane Ivan (16Sep) recoveryand an inspection. We were doing OKduringIvan until the 11 -foot storm surge came in, then we bugged out to higherground to wait for it to go down. Actuallyspent the reunion doing an inspection at Kadena and dodging more storms. Landed at Narita on thelast plane to get in beforeTyphoon Ma-on hit, last bus to Haneda airport ditto. Had my flight to Okinawa cancelled and took a 24-hour slip. Then spent the next six hours wandering theTokyo train/taxi system in the storm to get toYokosuka Naval Base for a bed and shower (beat the hell out of sleeping in the airport). Finished the inspection and left Okinawa the day beforeTyphoonTokagecenter-punched them. All in all, not mybest fall season. Currentlydoinginspectorgeneral stuffforAFSOC. Steve Weartjustgot back to the AFSOC HQ from Europe. Missed Jan Jouas at Kadena ( 1 8WG/ CC) - he wasTDY.”

I traveled to USMA for theAF/Army game. Brian Hampl, wife Becky, son Zach and a small contingent offriends fromVermontjoined us for theweekend. Pat and Liz Tisdale drove up from NorthernVirginia. The boys from Atlanta were there for theirusual road trip north. This from GaryRower: Each offyear, this groupwhich startedwith ChipTaylorand Steve Barnes about 10 years ago, expanded to include ’79er’s that went to pilottraining with Chip; this expandedslightly more buthasremained prettywellfixed. Thewives, the FirstWives club, as a member is no longerwelcome iftheyjettison their spousal unit, all know each other for decades as there is more than 260 combined years ofmarriage in this group. The trip includes a day/night in NYC, a show, golf on Friday at West Point, the Game, post game and departure. Pictured from left are Chip Taylor, Bruce Holbrook, Brian Koechel, Jon Pirabek, Jon Fago, Joe Hackbarth, Gary Rower, Steve Barnes, Gary Harris, ChuckTodaro, and Fred Jacobsen. Not present for this year’s game were Jim Nelson, Bob Klutz Ennis, Mark Kleinheksel and theirwives.

And that’s it for 2004. Wish you all a good 2005, especiallyyou airline guys. Keep those updates coming. John Dallas (John.Dallas@arftsm.ang.af.mil) has the Springarticle, so by the time you get thisyou willjust about miss his deadline. Send on to Brian Koechel at bkoechel@comcast.net. MightyFine.

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

Catch-up. Because ofspace limits, I’d rather wait and do at least partial justice to some ofyour inputs. Here goes: Allen (Janet) Baker wrote shortly afterHurricane Ivanhitthem in Gulfport, MS. Before the storm, “We thanked God for providing us such a handsome home to live in for the past year. We thanked Him forwhat has been the sweetest year that either ofus ever had. Theywere readyto acceptwhatever came andlater realized howblessed they

were not to have been on the same side ofIvan as Mobile/Pensacola. Their nearly 100-year-old home survived the 100-knotwinds and tidal surge. “Today I note that I was much more enthusiastic about getting boards ON the second storywindows than I am about taking them OFF. Something about being 16' offthe ground on a ladder, trying to maneuver a 4x8’ sheet ofplywood while juggling one of those cool new battery-pack power drills and assorted screws andwashers. Glad all is well.

In case you missed it, the front oflastissue had a complete article highlightingthe success ofLinda (Garcia) Cubero.

DanAdams hails us fromWhy-Not-Minot: “It’s been a fast butveryinterestingride theselast fewyearsgoingfrom Legislative Liaison toAirForce RecruitingService, then back to Air Force Space Command as a wingking. Ellen and I have another Join Spouse assignment. Ellen works for Col Greg Biscone (Debbie, ’81) who commands the bomb wing. I sawSandy (Darula) Carlson at a meetinghere last summer. She is a Col in theMinnesota ANGandworksTotalForce medicalissues atAirForce Space Command. She looks great and seems to be enjoying life after active duty.”

Kathy (Johnson) and Keith Odegard moved to St. Louis in the fall. Keith was hired by an ortho group there. He started in the beginning oftheyear, so that gave them some time to get settled (i.e., “to paint and carpet the new place”). Kathy has been taking a break from flying forAmerican.

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Newer Stuff. Doug (Teresa) Owens is in Hawaii as the PACAFADO after getting short-notice orders—right after movinginto anew house. His son John wasjustmarried andis atRandolphfor navtraining. The wedding “was the nicest I’ve ever seen. I even got to be his best man, which made it even more special.” Regarding the change ofjobs, “I won’t miss the hours here in J-3 butwill miss the folks and the scope ofwork, which is some ofthe most interestingI’ve ever done. I lookforward to more timewithTeresa, a short commute, and 80 degree sunshine in Jan.”

for his all-time favorite, but less-secure,job. “Youngpilots do come and ask me for advice. I tell them, ‘Followyourpassion, but have an alternative plan in case things don’tworkout.’ A lot ofthis industryis luckand timing.” Some ofus know more than others...

Ginny (Caine) andLarryTonnesonhave leftGod’s country: “Since his retirement in ’95, Larryhasworked as a defense contractor in the command & control/intelligence arenas. His companyjust moved us from Colorado (where we had hoped to stayforever!) back toVirginia, so we are settlingbackinto the heat and humidity afterhaving been stationed here for 11 years. I retired in 2000 and am about to start mythirdpost-retirementjob—first a defense contractor, then theAOG, and now a middle school math teacher. I figure after doingthe same thingfor20years, it’s time to shop around! The attached photo is ofour familyat the Graduation Banquet this pastJune. Our son Matt (’04) is now the proud owner of our old2Lt bars and is getting settiedin atTravis after his 60 days (that’s right!) leave.”

WeddingDay!

From the looks ofthe followingAF news release, Dougwill have company: “Col. Frank J. Kisner, commander, 43rd AirliftWing, PopeAFB, NCwillbecome director, Plans and Programs, Headquarters PacificAir Forces, Hickam AFB, Hawaii. Colonel Kisner has been selected for promotion to brigadier general.” And another AF promotion was announced as well: To be ANG Brigadier General—Allison (Hillsman) Hickey.

Peggy (Dennis) (Bob) Carnahan had resigned herselfto substitute teaching after months ofjob huntingfollowingfurlough fromAmerican. She completed certification to teach at the U ofPhoenixand was startingflightinstructor ratings when she landed a jobflyingCitationXs for Netjets. Since they are still raisingbeef, shewanted to be sure to thankall ofyou on South Beach and Atkins diets.

Saw a DeltaAir Lines PilotAssociation’s ContractAdministrationCommittee Report and noted the Committee Chairman is one JohnMorgado.

Carrie (Banwell) (Ken) Gronewald is the senior project manager for Novar Controls near Seatde, although the companywas justboughtbyHoneywell. Her desire is to staywhere they are, not transfer to Minnesota. All the kids are flyingthe coop—only one left to get a drivinglicense. Carrie has become quite the hunter and plans on a trip this yearwith Ken to Alaska for caribou.

RayNakasone made the transition out ofICU, regularhospital care, Palliative Care, into a private nursinghome, and his angel-wife finally took him home andhas helpcaringforhim. Rayhas gone fromweighing 240 to 100. He doesn’tremembermuchofthepast, can speaksimple sentences, doesn’t move much, "but still plays a mean hand ofcards.” It’s a long road to recoveryfrom viral meningitis.

Steve Nachtweywas highlighted in a recent Minneapolis StarTribunearticle on what furloughed Northwest airline pilots are doing. He’s a simulator instructor at Offuttand debateswhether to leave the secure, second-favoritejob

The Tonnesons at theAirGardens.

Ricki (Smith) and Paul Selva continuedworkinghard and playing hard: a hikingtrip to the Scottish Highlands, Ricki’s newHabitat forHumanityadventures in Romania andMongolia, with a side trip to China, theirrenovatingand redecoratingofRicki’s dad’s home, her extensive involvement in quilting, and Paul’s move to Director ofOps at USTRANSCOM.

Backbypopulardemand. Dean (Carla+4) Eisberg was in Moscow “teachingthe next generationofsoldiers to fightterrorism” whilethe rest ofthefamily remained in Eagle River (nearAnchorage). The really big news was, “Our apple tree in the frontyardfinallybore fruit after 12 years. Seems the moose failed to trim it down to a stub last winter.” Some ofwhat was overheard in their house: Carla—“Fridaynight is the pig roast at Boy Scout Camp.” Jesse

“I don’t like pig. Will they have pizza?” Dean —“No, theyusuallyhave pig atapigroast.” Jesse—“Will theyhave black olives?” Dean—“Maybe.” Jesse

“I guess I’ll go then.”

Admin Stuff. Please vote forAOG board members. Lookingforvolunteers for reunion help (current info on our 3-6 Nov reunion can be found on our class web site and/or the new AOG web site atwww.usafa.org). Be there. Don

Rich Trentman

11102 Asbee St.

Falcon, CO 80831-8170

Home: (719) 494-8438

Work: (719) 554-9607

E-mail: trentman@usafa81.com

Class Website: www.usafa81.com

Hello ’81! Springtime in the Rockies! An you know, I write this article about three months beforeyou read it, so I’mhopeful the Falconbasketball team had another great season based on early conference play. I’m still hoarse from yelling at the CSU and New Mexico games.

Some administration: theAOG’s new website at www.usafa.org is up and you should registerwithyourAOG number. Also, important board elections are coming. Marty France is running, so please vote!

Michelle Johnson and her husband, John, drove with their twins to Michelle’s hometown ofSpencer, Iowa. Michelle spoke to the Chamber of Commerce, RotaryClub, and the high school while there and she took the boys (age 22 months) to a familyhog farm and said theywere having trouble telling the difference between a pig and a cow. Michelle said that was very tough to take for an Iowa gal. Sounds like more trips to Spencer are in order. Yvonne Schilz has moved to the Pentagon and is working base closure issues. She spent Thanksgiving in Florida and had her sisters and a brother come to D.C. for Christmas. Linda McCullers also spent Christmas in Florida. Our class president,Tony Lorusso, is still freezing in Minnesota working as the Director ofthe Minnesota Trade Office and traveling to Poland, Czech Republic,Argentina, Brazil, and Chile for hisjob (sounds likeTony needs to go to Florida).

Silvi (Kiisk) Steigerwald returned my email asking forAmy Markert’s address. Bob had talked to Amy and she was headed toWisconsin for the Holidays. Bob and Silvi are doingwell in Northern California and plan to make our 25th nextyear. Joan Cunningham is atTinkerAFBwith MarkCorrrellandLansen Conley. Joan also keeps in touch with Ray and Karen (Boniewicz) Torres and promised me a “newsier” note later. Amy (Russell) Thurman zipped a quick email before headingoffto flyforthe Holidays and also promised a follow-up. (ifI onlyhad a dollar for how many times I’ve heard that one...)

Kathleen, Stephen, and ChetNowakin Tucson.

Chet Nowak sent me a longemail. Chet and Kathleen moved west toTuscon after 10 years in Hampton Roads,VA. Chet is stillwith Raytheon as a Program Manager and assured me thathehas quicklyadjusted to thebetterweather. He can now focus much harder on golf and motorcycle riding. Chet sees John Mooneywho is the Guard and ReserveTest Center Commander. Chet also saw MikeSpencer on a trip to Langley. MikeisthewingcommanderatDavis-Monthan AFB. Steve Reuhl is the ops group commander. Steve then emailed me that Bill Napolitano is his deputy ops group commander. Chet also ran into Mike Podculski atAtlanta’s airport. ChetsaidMike looked good. Chet gave me a lead that Mike and Susie (Jackson) Winslow are down in San Antonio. Mike then zipped me a short email over the Holidays. Theyhavebeentheresince summer.

JeffBraleyemailed thathe is retiringin March (should be retired bythe time you read this) and hopes to move back to Colorado Springs. Jeff’s son Andrew ’06 playedgreat forthe Falcons (football) until gettinghurt in theArmy game. Mike Coxflewin before Christmas for a meeting at PetersonAFB, so I got Lauri Cross and MarvFisher to join us forlunch. Mikeworks missile defense forESC atHanscom. LauriisatNORTHCOMandMarvisatHQAFSPC. Lauriandlalso had lunch with Jay Santee the next week. Jay is the vicewing commander at Pete. Marty France is at HQAFSPC, too, but I have beenunsuccessfulin getting him to join our lunch bunch. Speakingofthe difficult to find, Marty... here’s a picture ofhim with some other ’81ers at theAF-NewMexico game.

on missile defenseVTCs almost every month and routinely receive his insightful emails.

JeffSparks moved back to Colorado andlives in Monument. Jeffhas three kids: Jennifer atVanderbilt, John at USAFA, and Katie in High School. Jeffflies for FedEx and says there are lots ofour classmates with FedEx includingTed Duell and Dan Opp. Juan Moreno is deployed to Columbiafor 12AF as theAir Component Commander’s Rep, but is missing his command duties at Lackland. My old Eglin roomie, Bruce Stark, is working surface launchAMRAAM programs supportinghomeland defense. Good old Nedd Rudd is back in the USAworking at Boeingin St Louis after a coupleyears in the SaudiArabia. Ken Smith retired from the Pentagon and is a contractor providing ops input to modelingand sim policydevelopment. GregTurner runs his own consultingbusiness andis currendya subcontractorto Boeing on missiledefense. Greg got married a couple years ago to Stacy. 81 ers Eric Garvin and Steve Hawes attended. Greg and Stacyjoinedher parents on a trip to Finland and Sweden thisyear... prettyrough. (I tookmywife to Omaha and Denver lastyear... I guess that’s not quite the same...) Greg Tovreais still at SpangdahlemAB as a contract simA-10 instructorand loving it. LarryChing is inAlaska flyingforCathayPacific and pondering a possible move to HongKong soon. Tim McKibben finished 737-800 school and is keepingbusywith Delta. Tim and Marshahave a daughter, Caroline, in college and a 5th grader, Lauren.

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From our warfighters: Mike Keltz, my USAFA neighbor in CS-12, is the 386thAEW commander in Kuwait and is busykeepinggetting troops and supplies into Iraq. He’s gotplentyofable help with Grace (Battaglia) BlevinHolman commanding the maintenance group and Steve Brunhaver commandingthe ops group. Dennie Grunstadworks in the CAOC, LarryGallogly is a squadron commander atA1 Udeid and Jan Sztuka is flying there with the Maxwell Reserve C-130 unit. Wow, ’81 ers are getting it done.

We lost our classmate Lee Carson (CS-31) veryunexpectedly on January6th Please keep Lee in your thoughts and prayers.

I was overwhelmedwith emails for the Holidays (15 pages at 9 ptfont), so I abridged much ofour news due to article limitations. It is a problem I love to have. Thanks foryourresponse! OurclassVR RandyWorrall, kindlyextended my term limit as scribe through the next quarter, (justkidding) Nextyear is our 25th reunion, so please let me knowifthere is somethingyou want to do to help or some inputyou want to make. I’ll contact theAOG to begin the planning process.

Jim Ratti

161 E. 2400 S. Clearfield, UT 84015-1919

DSN: 586-3352 (work) rattijm@mindspring.com http://usafa82.org

GreetingsRedtags!

Vance Gilstrap, who is a contractor supporting missile defense, is also in the Springs. I see FrankCheeseman, Roscoe (John) Adams, and occasionally, Tim Harris, at Falconbasketballgames. Mike Paranko is uptheroad inDenverworkingwith a neonatologygroup that covers intensive care nurseries in the Denver metro. MikeandTheresehave a son, Adam, aHSfreshman and a 7th gradedaughter, Audrey. Mikekeeps intouchwith DrewGrant in Omaha. Mike and Drewgot togetherforthe NCAAtourney game in DenverwithAF-North Carolina.

TonyHinen, vicecommanderat FairchildAFB, emailed thathe, Phil Swanson, and Rein Foerg are doingwell. Phil is the deputyops group commander and Rein runs the ops group trainingshop. Fred and Barb (Chapman) Martin are atMcChordAFB. Fred isvicewingcommander. J.C. Crownover is the support group commandertherewith Fred. BobYates is busyat LangleyAFB bothwith hisjob and his three kids in college. Bob and the family are doingwell. Frank Gallegos is on my future lunch listwhen he comes to Peterson. Frank is the wingcommander atVandenbergAFB. Frankkeeps intouchwithTom Ferguson and Bill Umbach. Also atVandy, is Mike “Kad” Kadlubowski. I see Mike’s mug

13

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‘Twas the Season, and I heard from several classmates during the ensuing flurry ofChristmas greetings. Thanks for all your cards, letters, and news. Steve and GinaVogt sent a clever Christmas letter in the form ofa “wanted” poster, outliningthe manyactivities oftheir“gang” ofseven. Gina’s highlight this year was participating in a committee which raised over $90,000 to support theAmerican Brain TumorAssociation. She had special motivation, as their daughterKelly is a brain tumor survivor, and is doingvery well now. And in another feat ofsurvival, Steveweathered the postSept 11 downturn and has requalified as a Captain for NorthwestAirlines. He also made my daylast October byshowing up out here in Utah for mypin-on.

Jeffand Carol Beene (well actually, Carol) sent a rhyming Christmas letter outlining theirveryactiveyear. One highlight was sending eldest son, Jeffrey, offto his Plebe year atWest Point. While few oftheArmy acronyms and terms are familiar, father and son can at least agree on one thing- Beat Navy! Jeffis the 7th OpsGroup Commander at Dyess.

Doc andTrish (Riley) Kimminau sent a newsyletter from their new digs in Tucson, where Doc is the commander of the 474th Ops Group at DavisMonthan. They’ve got a gorgeous new home there, and theirthree youngsters are doinggreat.

Scotand PattyShiercontinue to thrivewiththeir now nine-year-oldquints. Sadly, Scot’s dad passed awayearlylastyear. But Scot’s grandmotheris going strong, and celebrated her 101 st birthday in June. The quints have had one adventure after another, havingappeared on one ofthe earlyepisodes ofthe Women’s Entertainment Network’s realityshow“Take MyKids, Please”. The premise was that Pattyand Scotwouldbe given a fabulous getawayweekend IF theycouldfind a friendwilling to watch thekids, with a TV crewfilmingthe outcome. Oh, did I mention that the friend could have NO babysitting or parentingexperience? Theirfriend Bev agreed, and Scot and Pattywere sur-

Sean Murphy, Marty, Jesse Gossner, andDean Carlson.

prised (naive souls that theywere!) that the editors chose to air only the “bad behavior” clips! Scot says he doubts James Dobson will be calling him for parenting advice anytime soon... The kids also got some airtime in January when theyspent some timewith the cast ofFox’s “Quintuplets”. As part ofthat visit the kids got a shopping spree at a KB toy store, and donated a portion of their gift to their school. Ifyou’d like to see more about the family, surfover to www.shierquints.com.

In other news, Mike and Kathleen Berrywill be settling into their new U.S. Government-subsidized housing in Alice Springs, Australia bythe time you read this. Mike works for Raytheon and is transferringthere to do some “fun computer stuff” at the Joint Defence Facility at Pine Gap. I’m betting that there is still a considerable portion of our class that would consider “fun computer stuff” an oxymoron, but it certainlyisn’t a contradiction to Mike! Back around Halloween Mike was enjoying a Daddy/Daughter Dance in Los Alamos. Just after finishing a taxing (and awkward) attempt at the Electric Slide, he noticed someone across the room who resembled a middle-aged Steve Suddarth. Sure ‘nuff, that’s who it was. Turns out Col Steve is now assigned as the AF Research Lab liaison to the Dept of Energy’s Sandia, Livermore, and Los Alamos labs. Mike said that Steve lookedjust as bad as he did doing the Electric Slide, although he was somewhat better at the Hokey Pokeyand the Macarena!

Tom “SlowNed” Pfeiffer sent an e-mail from his retirement lair near Eglin AFB. Tom’s a pilot for SouthwestAirlines, and “moonlights” as a contractor intheAMRAAM (Advanced Medium RangeAir-to-Air Missile) program office at Eglin. Darleen (Avery) Sobota sent an address update and told me that her husband, Mark, recentlybeganjob teaching at AFIT in December. He had been working in the B-2 program office doing test & evaluation work. Mark and Darleen moved to theWPAFB area about two years ago. I heard from Dave and Julia (Scheffelin) Graves, who are both doingwell. Dave has been appointed a part-time pastor at their church, and continues to fly throughout the Caribbean for American Airlines. Julia is working for BearingPoint, a business consulting and systems integration company. Greg Davis is working for AFOTEC’s detachment at Edwards, and wrote to me lookingfor some links to updated class news. He and his wife now have eight children!

Sue Grant, one ofour published authors (manytimes over!), has a new book out. Sue says, “It’s an “action-filled adventurewith a touch of romance that both genders will enjoy”. The title is The ScarletEmpress, and you can read reviews and excerpts atwww.susangrant.com. Sue’s sweating out the stability ofher “dayjob” as a 747 pilot with a teetering United Airlines, and has just changedpublishers and agents as she is working to hedge herbets should the airlinejob fade away. I’mbettingherwriting career willtake center stage, as all the reviews ofherwork that I’ve seen have been fantastic!

That’s about it on the news front, but I’ve got a couple ofnon-paid and nonpolitical announcements concerningtheAOG. First, they’ve launched a superb newwebsite atwww.usafa.org. They’ve really done a fantastic job revamping it, and it’s well worth checking out. Also, there will be elections for theAOG’s Board ofDirectors about the time that this is published, and I encourageyou to vote foryourchoice ofrepresentatives to the board. Contrary to some ofthe information beingpassed out by a small dissenting group of grads, the AOG really doesbelong to the graduatecommunity, and this election is one very powerful method we have to make our voices heard.

Until next time, keep doinggood work and above all, be safe. Ratman

Raymond J. Blust

7 Highland Park

Wheeling, VW 26003-5472

H: (304) 242-7182

Cell: (304) 281-1621

E-mail: RJMABLUST@comcast.com

sis. Trust me; ifyou’re not on Jon’s cardlist do whateverittakes to get on it; it is always a literarydelight. Jon and Brenda are sendingout an open invitation to Jon’s retirementin Jan 06. Please call ahead as I’m sure most motels and all the Hotel 6swillbe booked. Therewillbe atleast one mobilehome orWinnebago (pictureChristmasvacation) parked on the street near a sewage drain. You gotta knowJon’s family and friends, us excluded. Jon, ofcourse is still flying out of WarnerRobinsandhashopefullytakenhislastTDYto thedesert. JonandBrenda have two youngsters; Jeffreyis ajunior atVirginiaTechwhile Kendall is gliding through her senioryear. Seeyou all in Jan 06, ifnot sooner.

Picture time! You gotta loveA1 and CathyGailey. We look forward to their picture as much as we do forJon’s letter. The Gaileys are Brittany-15, Kenny11, Cathy-29 andAl-justhappyto be flyingforDelta. Ifyou’re not in the airline world, thankGod. Not too much we can do about it except keep the faith and hope we all weather the storm. Talk to yaAl.

Heard from another fellow Phantom (CS-24) mate Dave “Franken” Stine and family. Dave, Steffi, and daughterSophia are currently in The Netherlands where Dave is doing an exchange tour with the Royal NetherlandsAF flying F- 16s. By this time next year Dave and family should be back home in Arizona where Dave will be flying for the Arizona ANG. Pete and Gerry McCaffreysendtheirgreetings fromVegas. Pete took a full-timeANGjobprior to beingfurloughed from United. Good luck Pete.

Heardfrom a fewclassmateswhojust sent some tidbits ofinfo. Mike Padilla and family are living inTennesseewhere Mike flies for Fed Ex. Theyhave two boys. Andy and Jaime Lagrone wrote fromWright-Pat. Theywill be moving soon to a warmer climate this spring. Theyhave three children, one ofeach. Actuallytheyhave one son and one daughter. That was a Rodneyjoke. Jeffand Ellen Fiebig are still hanging out in the Springs and are getting that “I gotta move everythree years fever”. Ellenworks in the Reserve system and is obviouslydoingsomethingimportant as she chartered a C-21 to briefall the AF Reserve CCs on herlatest project. Jeff, like Pete, took a leave ofabsence from Unitedand is currentlythe CEO ofSovereignCo. Not sure whattheydo though, butJeffdoes have a permanent smile on his face. Theyhave two kids: Derekajuniorin high school and Danielle is a freshman. Jeffalso made the Reserve BrigGen. qualification board; he is now looking for a slot—congrats Jeff.

HappyNewYearYall! Hope everyoneis enjoyingthenewyearwith manyyetunbroken resolutions. I’m stillworking on mine but I gave myselffive months to complete. Results will be issued upon request. Life is still great here in NorthernWestVirginia. The Steelers (as ofthis writing) are doing awesome, I still have ajob andJulie still loves me. What else can I askfor? Before I get to thegoodstuff, I have a fewadministrative items to go over. First off, I need someone at theAcademyto scribe the fall article; otherwise I will continue to boreyou into submission. You can’t reallyenjoygetting two consecutive artides from me can you? Please let me knowifyou can help out, thanks. Secondly, please stop bythe new and improved AOG website at www.usafa.org. Also, please vote in the upcomingAOG Board election. RememberCharlie Garcia is the only one from our class on the board.

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Okay, enough ofthe admin stuff; time for the mail bag. I really do enjoy writing the winter article because I get lots ofcards, letters and even CDs. I’ll explain that one later. Of course our Christmas season officiallybegins with the ever anticipated arrival ofthe “postage due” Jon and Brenda Dureskythe

“TheHappyUPSGregors. FromleftareRobert,Ralinda,Rachel, andRichard. Got a greatphoto from another24-Phantom mate, Robert and Ralinda (’82) Gregor. Robert flies for UPS which like the other not-be-mentioned parcel airline is doingprettygood. Robert, please don’t call anyofus to say how nice yourjob is, okay? My next letter came from another Phantom mate, Leslee (Forsberg) and Chris (’82) Washer. TheywritefromwhatTveheard istheirlast change ofaddress to the frigid Montana area ofWhitefish. Both Chris and Leslee are retired and are truly enjoying the kids. Becca is 16 while young Jacob is 12 and following in Dad’s footsteps as he plays guard and is the long snapper on the football team. Theylive near a ski resort and have plenty of room, so come on up right Les? Next letter comes from a fellowPhantom Recce driverDougHigh and wife, Kim. Dougrecendy retired also and is now

The Delta Gaileys.”..From left are Brittany, Kenny, Cathy, andAl.

a ProgramManagerfor a companycalled RSInformationServicesintheSprings. Theyhave two girls, Hilary-12 andAnna-5.

“The United GravesFamily. From left are Ron, Tonia andkids. Our lastphoto comes from the Ron Graves family. They too are enjoying the life as an airline family. Ron andToniarecentlyleft Colorado forVirginiawhere Ron flies for United out ofDulles. Heard from fellowT-38 driver Robert and Edith Englehart. Robert retired from the AF in Oct. 04 and was quicklyhired by AmericaWest where he flies the A-320 out ofLasVegas. They have two daughters: Kristinwho’s a freshman atUTwhileAlyssais ajuniorinhighschool. Mylast Christmasletter comes from anotherUPT andT-38 mate, Kevin and CaraMcMillin. KevinrecentlyretiredfromtheCalifornia Guardandis currendy flyingthe MD-11 forFed-Ex out ofLAX. Theyhave three children: Josh is inhis lastyearatUCSB, Kelliwho hangs out at home andMaureenwho is in thefourth gradeandhas avoice ofan angel. InmylastarticleImentionedthatIwas not sure whereDave Geutingwas stationed. MarkPrice sent me an e-mailandsaid Dave isworkingin the Protocol OfficeofRamsteinAB, GE. Markis stationed at NATO HQ in Bmssels as anAirC2 Systems Coordinatorwith theU.S. mission to NATO. Markmentioned that Mike Rosas is also at NATOwhere he supports the NATO MilitaryCommittee. Thanks forthe info Mark, hope to see you in BRU soon.

Soyouallbeenwonderingwho in theworldwouldsend out a CD at Christmas time? Itcontained no letter or familyphotos, simplysongsfrom artistsI’ve never heard of. You have to knowStuManchu Pope to understand. We, the smacks of Starship-19, spent two years listening to Stu and Steve’s selections. So ifthis article seems a little disjointed it was because I was listeningto Stu’sYuletide Mix 2004. Actuallyitwasn’t so bad. Nowifyouallwanttoopine,pleasesendallletters and communications to Stu,Jon or myself. Stu is the next scribe, please contact him at 520 Ramona Ave., Sierra Madre, CA 91024 or e-mail him as stu_pope@yahoo.com. That about does it from myend. Julie and I hope this article finds everyone in greathealth and highspirits. Pleasekeep those letters and cards coming. MayGodblessyou andyourfamilies andpraythat He may guard and guide our men and women stationed throughout theworld.

Mike Jensen

12035 Milam Road

Colorado Springs, CO 80908 (800) GO-AFA-GO

E-mail: michaeljensen@remax.net

http://www.usafa84.com

(6 Sabre Society Donors)

(Editor’s note: We didnotreceive an articlefrom Mikeforthisissue. Please sendhim yourinputandphotosforthe nextissue.)

Quintel Williams

8980 Peabody Court

Colorado Springs, CO 80920 (719) 282-4333

USAFA1985@aol.com

Hi everyone!

I hopeyou’re “offand running” to a great 2005... our 20th reunion year! Firm up plans to attend our reunion at USAFAthis fall.

The Checkpoints editor asked me to pass along a couple ofthings. First, please vote in the upcomingAOG Board election. Second, ifyou don’t know theAOG’s web address, look no further: www.usafa.org.

I can’t believe that I’ve been so busymoving, training, and pulling all ofour news inputstogetherfor the lastfewCheckpoints that I haven’ttoldyou about

my new son! Marcus QuintelWilliams was born 25 May 04 at the National NavalMedicalCenterin Bethesda, MDjustlike our daughterKristenwas three years before.

QuintelWilliamsholdingson Marcus Williams at theNationalNavalMedical Center, Bethesda, MD.

SeehowMarcus evens out the balance in theWilliams family. I’m so glad that I’m not outnumbered bythe girlsanymore!

LeftbackKristen, rightbackQuintel, leftfrontMarcus, andrightfrontRenee.

Congratulations to Lt Col JeffHaymond and Lt Col RandyPagan who are both on the HQAir Force Space Command 2005VigilantEagle list for squadron command! Jeffwas selected to command the 1ASTS atVandenbergAFB, CA. Randy was selected to command the 21 OSS at PetersonAFB, CO.

Since the last Checkpoints, I sawLt ColJ.R Scott at the PetersonAFB Barber Shop. J.P and Lt Col Doug Burnswork at Peterson forHeadquartersAir Force SpaceCommand. On a separateoccasion, I sawMsLaureliMazikatthe Peterson BarberShopwithhertwo boys. Laureliusedhertime attheUSAFAPrep School to retire a little early. Laureli took a civil service position as a contracting officerfor SMC/Det 11 at Peterson on a communication satellite program.

I saw LtColToddWinn at the CheyenneMountainHolidayPartyinDecember. Toddisthedeputycommanderforthe 721 st MissionSupportGroupwhichkeeps theCheyenneMountainOperationCenterrunning. AndI got a Christmascards from MrMattand Paula Bridgers andalso from Lt ColKeith andFaye Lambert.

Scott Neumann sent an e-mail. Scott had an interestingexperience in Novemberwhile on hiswaybackto EdwardsAFB from a trip toWashington DC. The first officer on Scott’s commercial flight had a sudden seizure. Scott and anotherpassengerhelpedpullhimfrom his seat so he could get some medical attention. Then Scott put his test pilottraining to good use and helped the Captainflythe aircraft to Colorado Springs (in the shadowoftheAcademy) so the FO could get emergencymedical care. Scott admitted that “This is every pilot’s secret fantasy!”

Here’s a link to Scott’s story as it was posted to the AF linkWebsite: http:/ / www. af.mil/ news /story.asp?storyID=123009162.

Rick Hurley sent an e-mail requesting the pass code for our class web site. Rick also gave a little update from LukeAFB, AZwhere he’s still on active duty as an IP in F- 16s. Rick said he also works with the Goldwater Range.

Dave Humblet sent an e-mail and said his wife, Marta, gave him another beautiful babygirl—Marina Katherine—onJune 11,2004. Dave said they’re alreadyworking on plans for a (baby) sitter so they can make the reunion next fall. Dave said he’s the lead application engineer at a company called Pacific Bearing, a worldleaderin linear motion systems.

Karolen Fahrni sent an e-mail. Karolen said she’s backwhere she started, in Hawaii. She said her fatherhas beenveryill for the last severalyears and once

this assignmentpopped up, instead ofretiringshe andherhusband decided to take the assignment so they’dhave a ticket back to the mainland. Karolen said theyhave two beautifulkids: a daughterMikaila (5) andasonJustus (3). Karolen said it’s hard to believe that we (Preppies) started ourAF journey over 24Years ago (22July 1980 - a date she saysshe’llalwaysremember) - “itreallyseems like yesterday.”

In the midst ofmy PCS last summer, I missed an e-mail that Irv Higa sent for me via GeorgeWeathersby in July. In December George realized that I never got the messagelast summer and sent it again.

Irv says life in Hawaii is goingprettygood forhim. He’s married now to the formerJessie Saiki for nineyears, with two little ones: Alana, 6; and Ritchie, 4. Irv not onlygivesupdates on our classmates, but on grads from other classes too. Reynold Hioki iswith the HawaiiANG as the exec to theANGcommander (1-star). Reynold should pin on Lt Col in Oct. KenHayashi is over atJICPAC and looking at retiring next year. He owns some real estate in Hawaii so don’texpecthim on thewelfare rolls anytime soon. Hejust became a dad a month ago, and now has three boys. Ken’s wife, Carol, is reallyhappy about that! Another classmate, Walter Iwatake, is out on the East Coast inVirginia, I think, enjoying civilian life.

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husband, Chris, who was graduating from the class. Speaking of’87, Lt Col Mike Howryis nowworkingforBob as anADO. Bob sayshe doesn’tremember the rest ofMike’s classmates working as hard as he does. He is married to Kathryn—she teaches a dailyaerobics class at the base gym; a greatworkout.

Bob got a note with photo from Lt ColJohn “Tater” Specht, who is currently at Spangdahlem AB, Germanywith a bunch ofothergraduates. Pictured from left are: Lt Col Pat “M+10” Malackowski, Commander ofthe Panthers ofthe 81 st FighterSquadron (A-10); Lt ColJohn “Spanki” Sepanski, Commander of the Stingers ofthe 22nd FighterSquadron (F-16); Lt ColJohn “Tater” Specht, Commander ofthe Fighin’ Hawks ofthe 23rd FighterSquadron (F-16); and Lt ColJoe Torres, Commander ofthe 52nd Logistics Readiness Squadron.

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Joe Kim ’82, MikeAkiona ’86, and Damon Pescaia ’88 are flyingtankers with the 203 ARS. Joe Kim was justpicked up for the OG slot at the 154th, so he’ll be an 0-6 soon. Other HIANG dudes:William “Hammer” Ladd 75, Matt “Boz” Beals ’88, Lawrence “Grinder” Otto ’88, Philip “Axl” Rose ’89, Jeff“Mute” Tidwell ’90—all flywith the 199thFS (F-15s). Con“Conman” BradymovedfromtheHIANG to SOCPAC about a year or so ago. Craig Swaby retired from the Guard and is flying interisland withAlohaAirlines alongwith Conman and Hammer. Grinder is flyingwithAmericanAirlines andAxl is runningfive businesses (atlast count) as well as flyingpart-timewith the 199th. Boz and Mute are full-timers in the squadron. Ifyou need to contact someone in the HIANG use the following email protocol: firstname.lastname@hihick.ang.af.mil.

As forHQPACAF, Dennis “Malf and BridgetMalfer (both ’86) are in Hawaii. Malftook ajobwith Stan EvalwhileBridgetisworkingparttime attheirchildren’s elementaryschool. She also serves as a USAFAliaison in the state ofHawaii. Malfis on three or five-yearorders flyingF- 16s, so this tour should take him to 20 years. Scott “Dutch” Murray ’87 just took over an intel squadron here at headquarters. RogerRedwood ’89justleftthe Stan Eval shop forLittle Rock to flyC- 130s. The local (Hawaii) AOG listinghas about 200 names. All the credit for that goes to Sharon (Hullinger) Giletti ’87, who’sveryinvolved in theAOG here. She’s currently on the PACOM staff.

Finally, keeping a promise to a former classmate... MatthewBrandt sent an e-mail, stating that some ofus mayremember him as “Bandit” in the Fight’n 4th from 1981 to 1983, before he was disenrolled. Matt says he’s proud to have known us, and to finally serve with us andfor us atVandenbergAFB, CA. Contact Matt at Matthew.Brandt@vandenberg.af.mil

Well, that’s all for now. Take care. Later! Q

Bob Colella

103 Hap Arnold Road Barksdale AFB, LA 71110

(318) 747-5115/DSN: 781-5197

Robert.colella@barksdale.af.mil cole2964@bellsouth.net

Dear Bob’s Classmates!

Let’s see, howdoes this go... oh, yeah, Greetings! It’s me, Katy, Bob’s wife, I am trying to prevent the semi-annual “GloryDaysFortnight” that typically surrounds the“Writing ofthe Sacred Class ScribeArticle” - so I interceptedall the email traffic and have compiled this quarter’s submission unbeknownst to Bob. Hopefully, he will be so busy, he will forgetit was his turn to write the scribe news and the kids and I can skip all the great ideaswhich typicallyfollow“scribing”! (Look, the kids are NOT going to follow a regulation to fold their clothes or make their beds!)

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'86Kicks!From left arc Pat Malackowski, John Sepanski, TaterSpecht, and Joe Torres.

“Ofnote... all threefightersquadron commanders at Spangdahlem are from the class of’86! Pat and Carol are now atArmyWar College in Carlisle PA. Pat had the opportunity to deploy with his squadronduring OIF to Iraq. John Sepanski and Lori arrived inJune of’03, andspent ayear as ChiefofSafety. He, Lori and their three girls Katie, Rachel, and Megan are enjoying their third tour in Germany! He took over the “Big22” in Mayandis doing awesome work “down the street.”

John and Cindy arrived at Spangdahlem in Sep ’02 from our staff tour at EUCOM. He tookcommand ofthe23 FSinJun’03. Nicole (15) andRachel (11) continue to enjoyEurope andRachelspeaksthelanguage as ifshe were native.

Joe Torres tookcommandofthe 600+-personLogistics Readiness Squadron inJune of’03. He was recentlyannounced as the next DeputyMissionSupport Group Commander... congrats! Angelina and the girls, Rachel andAndrea, are enjoyingGermany’s Eifel region as well. The gangfrom Spanghopes to see everyonevery soon at the 20-year reunion.

Bob got a great note and photo from Dondi Costin who was with his new buddieswhile chaplainingrecently at BagramAB,Afghanistan. Doing God’s work or as he likes to put it, “SufferingforJesus.”

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So, let’s see, have to set the right mood to do this - okay, it’s after Taps, USAFA T-shirton, A-Jacketon, Bathrobewrapped around legs, class colored comforter - under feet, showershoes on. Redwool blanket/2lt curtain for 1 st house atWillie - underthe dogs - check! Plate ofPrincess slices - check, one virginjar ofpeanut butter (What the heck is a “virgin”jar ofpeanut butter anywayyou sick bunch ofmonkeys? And why does he tackle the kids to get to it first?)check, and one six-quart container ofmilk with a bottle ofHersheySyrupcheck! (The first time the kids ask me to pass “The Squirts”, it’s over!) Okay looks like we are all set here so let’s roll!

HeyFalcon Fans! What is up with losingthe CINC trophy! Ohwell, maybe next year. Had a greatChristmas; Bob gotjust what he wanted - letters from YOU! Hewent to theWeapons School Graduation in LasVegas and ran into a few classmates while there - Pam (Haug) Kaufman from ’87 was there with

DondiCostin and therestofhisfantasyfootballleague.

Jim and Lori (Curl) Cardinal, whosewedding we attended after graduation in ’86, wrote to saythey are stillhappilymarriedwith three children (10,8 and 5). Lori separatedwhen child #1 came along. She is a busystay-at-home mom. Jimis the91st Missile Maintenance Squadron Commander. “Planis to behere yet anotheryear at least. Our familyenjoys the outdoors and there is plenty here to keep us busy.”

DerekBrownwrote: “I’m out oftheservice—leftin’95 aftermylastgigteaching civil engineeringback at theAcademy. I’m currentlyworking as a project manager on the Stapleton Redevelopment project in Denver taking the old airportand convertingitinto a mixed use, commercial and residential development. Krystal and I still live down in The Springs; the commute is a bit of a drag, but every now and then I catch myselfracingup there like the madman ofold trying to catch a plane home.

Rich Sumrall wrote: “I havebeen the Flight Medicine Flight Commander at MoodyAFB forfouryears. Workingwith our CSAR forces and deployedeight times in the last sixyears, the last being to OEF. Med school obligationfinally up this month will go career, though. Still single, and racing in regional triathlons.”

Brent Frerichs wrote: “Living inAledo, TX and I flyfor DeltaAirlines on the 757/767 as a First Officer. I have two boys: Chance 7 and Chad 5. Mywife, Jennifer, is a professional photographer and teaches pre-school. Was with Billy Knoll at Rick Prior’s ordination, Rickis now an ordained Catholic Priest livingin Syracuse, NY. MarkTirrellis the fatherofthree andlivingin Durham, NH, flyingforAmerican out ofBoston andforthe Reserves out ofWestover, MA (C-5s). Mike Bumpus flies for United out ofDenver, but recendytook a oneyearleave ofabsence to upgrade to theA-10. Mike islivingin NewOrleans and flying out ofthe New Orleans. Afterserving as an attorneyin theAir Force and in privatepractice, Don Carter and his wife,Vanessa, now live in HighPoint, NC. Don is now in advertisingwith BNCAssociates. Gary Im iswithUnited in California. Mike Lackovic is recentlymarried, lives in Miami, FL and flies for American. Mike andJanet (Jueong ’88) Edwardslive in Florida andhavethree children. Mike flies for one ofthe major commercial airlines andworks as an IMA/ART (whatever) forSOCOM.”

Join theAOG! Please vote in the upcomingAOG Board election and check out theAOG’s newwebsite: www.usafa.org. Whileyou are there, EdYong says to check the classWeb site that feeds from it for photos and news from Gary Burg’sexploits in Iraq - and continue to prayfor him as well as allyour classmates who are deployed and fighting in the “hot” zones in the GWOT. 20-Year reunion is coming up - so hit the gym! Yours in Secret Scribing - KatyColella (Bob’swife)

Sharon (Hullinger) Giletti

500 Lunalilo Home Road, 11J

Honolulu, HI 96825

Phone and Fax: (808) 394-6397

E-mail: sharongiletti@aol.com

Hello Class of ’87! I hope this finds you all well and recovered from the holiday season. I wish you all a happy and prosperous year ahead ofyou. It appears that I successfullyguilted a couplepeople into emailing me updates. Lt ColTracey Meek wrote thankyou so muchTracey! Tracey was a freshman in CS-40 and then moved on to graduate from CS-35. Traceywrites: “I am currendyassigned to the Headquarters, Air Force SecurityForces Center, LacklandAFB, TX. We are a FOA reportingdirectly to theAir Staff, XOSF, Directorate ofForce Protection. It is great to be able to do a tour at theAir Stafflevel, but not be inWashington DC. Texas is a goodplace to do this type ofduty. Myjob is Chief, Antiterrorism Branch. Mybranch writes the AFI on Antiterrorism and manages many ofthe FP programs such as the Vulnerability Assessment Managment Program (VAMP) and the four levels ofAntiterrorism training. We also work closelywith the Joint Staff and OSD/SOLIC concerning DoD Antiterrorism policies and programs, ensuring the DoD factors theAir Force position during AT policy development. This is a greatjob and I enjoyhaving an impact on theWar on Terror. However, I am in an administrative position where I basically write staffpackages, make phone calls, and send e-mails. I have requested and been assigned a more direct role. On 1 Jan, I will be deploying to BagramAir Field,Afghanistan to be the DeputyCommander of the 455 Exp. Mission Support Group for four months. I am reallylooking forward to this opportunity. Over the past three years mysupervisors have told me I was too valuable to the home station mission to be allowed to deploy, or I have been assigned to a contingency base (Soto Cano Air Base Honduras). I finallygot a commanderwho agreed to let me go. Be careful whatyou askfor, you may get it... I am looking forward to doing mypart and making a difference for the deployed troops! I hope others also are shamed into writingyou. Would hate to see another blank section next quarter!” So hue!

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I also had received an email from Tim Matson that I thinkI forgot to submit last quarter. Tim writes: “Hey, a quickupdate fromAndrews. The 89thAirlift Wing seems to bebecoming a gatheringlocation forthe Class of’87. Injustthe 1stAirlift Squadron, flying the C-32 (757) and the C-40 (737), we have myself, Butch Chmura, MikeJoyal, Chris Hope and Ray Rabano. Tim is the Mission Operations Duty Officer there.

TheAOG has a new and improved web site; check it out at www.usafa.org. TheAthletic Department’s page is also nice and you can access the sporting events calendar. The Classes have their own pages too and I have put in an inquiry as to howto start posting our news and photos that come myway. IfI make it even easier to write or post news, maybe I can count on more updates from you all! Also, please vote in theAOG election for board members. Until next quarter—Sharon

Mark Peters

2437 Bedford Circle

Bedford, TX 76021-1823

(817) 937-9696

E-mail: pylt@comcast.net

Continued thanks are due to KrisAlden (CS-29). His work on the Panther Press, the CS-29 publication that keeps the Panthers’ up to date, provided a wealth ofmaterial a year ago and I’ve almost finished using it up. (Ifyour squadron is doingsomething similar, please send me a copy.) Normally I wouldn’t be publishing so much from one source, but since some Panthers have neglected to write their trustyscribe since, well, ever, I’ll cut ’em some slack. Please remember some ofthis maybe dated bynow, butwhat’s a little extra delaywhenyou considerwe graduatedwaaaaayback in ’88?

Brent Caldwell: Pilot training at Reese AFB, followed by A-10s at RAF Bentwaters, Davis-MonthanAFB, PopeAFB, and then the MarylandANG. UnitedAirlines from June, ’98; 727 FlightEngineerlivingnorth ofBaltimore, MD. Moved to Denverin ’99 to takeposition as 727 Instructorat United’s Flight Training Center. Transitioned toAirbus320/319asanInstructor. Transitioned from Maryland to Colorado ANG in Nov2001 as non-flyingpilot in the F-16 Squadron. Activated for Operation Iraqi Freedom from Feb to Jun 2003; “Surplused” from United Flight Center back to the “line” to flythe Airbus in August 2003. Second marriage to Anne: four children altogether, all girls: 14, 12, ll,and5. Chelseyand Haley, the oldest, are fromAnne’s firstmarriage but have beenwith me since theywere verylittle. Tyleris the 11-year-old and she is mine frommyfirst. Sheliveswithher mom inLubbock, TX. Claire, the fiveyear-old, is ours.

A1 Chin: Lovin’ the single life in Florida. Forrest James: four horses, four dogs, five cats (one in the house, four in the barn), a goat, a guineapig, and a bunch ofdeer. Major in the USAFR. Assigned to NAIC (WPAFB), working at Lackland as the NAIC Liaison to HQ AIA. As for my “realjob”, I am the Chief Business Officer for BestTransport.com, Inc. (http:// www.BestTransport.com/managementteam.htm). Golf: 13.3 Handicap; Eyes: Green; Hair: MIA. Scott Elligott: Recendylaid offfrom NWAand now a mobilized IMA at theTACC.

Rich Gannon: We were in Ellsworth, SD, from ’94-’98 where I performed B1WSO duties. Wentto Barksdaleand8thAF from '98-’00. Then to theNavalWar College from ’00-’01.1wanted to gojoint out ofschool and had PACOM as an option. I was thinkingHawaii;AFPC was thinkingKorea, so here I am in Korea. We’ve been here for 18 and reallylike it. Next stop: the B-l inAbilene. Have been out ofthe blue for too long, so I’m lookingforward to beingpartoftheAF again. This is a joint command, but is heavilyArmy. John Chapman: Married Rich’s sister. Started out in Charleston and did the C-141 thing for 4.5 years. Then flew Lears at Scott for about two years, followed by some time at TACC/ HQ AMC. Next was Kadena in the KC for three years, followed by 12AF Stan/EvalinTucson. ThenACSC, nowl’m at Robins flying’135s. Tim Powers: C-5s to Dover. Deltapilot. Pam (Klein ’89) in the Reserves at the Pentagon.

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Andi (Thompson) Tart had an informative update as well: “UPT atVanceAFB and gotengaged to thejerkI was dating at school, Dean, at Christmas time. Then along about Feb, I started talking to myboyfriend from High School, BillTart. Got dis-engaged in May, got an EC-135 to Offutt out ofthe whole UPT deal and went to Castle AFB in Nov. Meet up with said high school boyfriend; he was at nav school at Matherjust up the road. We were engaged in Jan and married in Aug (CindyStephens and Jenni (Cushing) Lank ’89, were in thewedding). That was 14 years ago! We went on to Offutt where I was in ECs and he was an EWO on the RC-135 and we camped out there for seven years. I had twingirls in ’93—Ashley and Allison and another girl Ellen, but we call her Hunny, in '97. After a big hairydeal with the involuntary servitude thing in ’95 (theywanted me to go instruct at Sheppard; I wanted to keep myfamilytogether), I was allowed to put in mypaper work. When mycommitment was up in ’97 theylet me out, and I did get to keepflyingthatwhole time. I feel veryfortunate that I got out on Saturday and Delta called on Sunday; I started a week later, Sept of’97. Delta training was like an Academyreunion, I see JB Waltermier and Dusty Rodgers, (both ’87) quiteabit, not to forgetTom Brogan and MarkWinschel. (Mark is flying for Delta out of Cincinnati, enjoying hunting and his two kids.) We moved to LasVegas for 18 months where Bill was an instructor at Weapons School and then on to Montgomerywere we got to spend not one but two years (Bill did SAAS); which was followed bythree years at the Pentagon. I couldn’t be happier. Mygirls are in a great school where I get the chance to beveryactive, myjob is pretty secure forthe time being, and I have a group ofreallygreat friends. I have even run into Tim and Pam (Klein ’89) Powers duringswim meets at their beautiful pool. I managed to reachAndi before deadline and she added that she’s now “inWarnerRobins, GA, but my husband will deployin January (three months) and I’m not digging that too

much. I still flyforDelta and feelveryfortunate to have been hired at the right time!”

Lastly, one ofour own receivedthis impressiveaccolade, as notedin theArizona Capitol Timesand BusinessJournalofPhoenix, amongothers: “Southwest Airlines Captain is theYoungestLivingMemberInducted intoArizonaVeterans Hall ofFame. At 38, FrankSchmuckis theyoungestperson to beinducted into theArizonaVeterans HallofFamethatincludessuchluminaries as formerUnited States Senator BarryGoldwater, Congressman Bob Stump andJohnRhoades, Ira Hayes, andMadeline Ullom. A 1988 graduate ofthe U.S. AirForceAcademy and a GulfWarveteran, Schmuck is an engineer and commercial airline pilot with SouthwestAirlines. ‘The guyjustgives and gives and I don’tknowhowhe findsthetime,whatwithhaving ajob andfamily,’ saidHallofFame memberand Congressional Medal ofHonor recipientFredFerguson. Schmuckdeveloped the annualcommunitybenefit programVoicesTake Flight to raise awareness of AmyotrophicLateral Sclerosis, betterknown as Lou Gehrig’s disease. He is also active inTempe Nuevo Kiwanis Club, SouthwestAirlinesAdopt-A-Pilot mentor program for school children, MaricopaCountyVeterans Medical Leadership Council, League ofUnited LatinAmerican CitizensVeterans Council and King ofGloryLutheran Church.” Wayto go Frank!

As usual, I’ve gone beyond the strict word count limits yet again, but do pleasesendmeyour EOY/Xmas letters; it’s all news to me!

Paul W. Tibbets, IV

854 Westover Road

Whiteman AFB, MO 65305

Home: (660) 563-3095

E-mail: p2a2@charter.net

Greetings classmates! Howtime flies - howmanyofy’all haveyour20-year high school reunions thisyear? Beforeyou know it we will be celebratingthe same from USAFA! Check out the newAOGweb site atwww.usafa.organdvote electronically, or use the enclosed ballot. Please exerciseyour right to vote. Lots ofnews to pass on, so let’s get to it!

Thad Darger and family say hello from their new home in Fiskdale, MA, where theyrelocated afterThad accepted a new position with Boston Scientific at theircorporate headquarters in Natick (nearBoston). Aftermoving six or seven times and landing in the Midwest every time, the family decided movingto the east coast was an opportunitytheydidn’twant to miss. Everyone is excited aboutthehistoryand newness ofthe area and theyhave taken many weekend trips to explore Massachusetts. Alexis in 5th grade (11), Payton is in 3rd grade (8 Vz), Bradyn is in kindergarten (5 Vz), and Drew attends pre-school

three days a week (3 Vz). Prior to the move, the Dargersspent an early summer vacation in Honoluluwith some friends stationed at HickamAFB. Thanks for theupdate!

Our next update also comes from the northeast, McGuireAFB, whereTony Pollizziis stationedwith hiswife Raquel and sons Dominic and Nicholas, who was bomlastMay-twoweeks early! Dominic (4) isaveryhelpfulandpatientbig brotherand enjoysmakingNicholaslaughwith sillyantics. He’salso been quite activewithpre-school,gymnastics, and storytime at thelibrary. InthefallTony’s squadronintramural soccer gamesbecame a father-sonactivity. HeandDominic also enjoyed afternoon fishingtrips and bicycle rides before the coldweather arrived. The familyspent time in 2004 exploringthe Pocono Mountains, Harper’sFerry,Amish Country, Hershey’s Chocolate Factory, and the new Smithsonian Air andSpaceAnnex near Dulles IAP Tonyanticipatesdeployingthis springand then receiving a new assignmentshortly thereafter. ThanksTony!

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Back in the Midwest, ChristyKayser-Cookwrites from St Louisand ScottAFBwhere she is ChiefofPolicyand Resources Division forAMCTest and Evaluation. Her husband, Gary, works in the TankerAirlift Control Center coordinating tanker support for Homeland Defense and stillflieswith the Reserves atWichita as a boom operator. DaughterHaley (3) loves Dora the Explorer. Emily (6) is a goodbig sister and kindergartener. “Princess” Emilystill loves to dress up and is doinggreat in gymnastics, swimming, Daisies (Girl Scouts), and Sundayschool. The familytook trips in 2004 to the Outer Banks ofNorth Carolina, New River Gorge National Recreation Area inWestVirginia, Emerald Isle just offthe coast of Morehead, NC, Lake ofthe Ozarks, Yosemite National Park, King’s Canyon, and Sequoia National Park. Good to hear fromyou!

On the east coast we findJohnWarden, who is chiefofthebombersection in the operations and training division at Air Combat Command. John’s wife, Holly, daughterAshley (5), and son Pete (1) enjoyliving on LangleyAFB and having dad workingonly three blocks away!

The Warden familyvacationingin GulfShores, AL.

Pete is having no problemkeeping up with his sister and pushes heron his scooter andwalkertoys. MissAshleyis a biggirl and in pre-kindergarten. She’s enjoyinghersecondyear as anAwana Cubbie at church and enthusiastically recitesherBible verses. Thefamilypurchased an RVin 2004 andmakesmonthly campingtrips as much a partoftheirlives as they can. Travels lastyeartookthe Wardens to California, Illinois,Washington State, andAlabama twice. John expects an assignment this summer- hopefully south! Thanks guys.

Speaking ofthe south, Gil Petrinawrites from myhometown ofMontgomery, AL, where he is at theAir Force School ofAdvancedAir and Space Studies (SAASS). He reads an average ofone book a night but enjoys the school sched-

Arizona Governor Janet Napolitano, Captain Frank and wife Andrea Schmuck

TheDargerfamilyenjoys Hawaiiin May.

ThePetrina familycelebrates the birth ofourSavior.

ule. Wife, Carolyn, continues to workwith MarketAmerica Unfranchise and is having a blastwith her company. DaughterKelley (1) is growing and changing every day. Gill said Dan Tippett and Ed Redman are doingwell at SAASS with him. He spoke with Bill Pinter, who’s at ACC hoping to get back to flying this summer. Gil sawJimBreck over the holidays. He is at Ft Braggworking for JSOC. Randy Bristol is in Oklahoma and Hal Cranmer is in Minnesota. Dick Rasmussen is atAndrewsAFB flyingGulfstreams. Good to hear from you!

Eric Chandlersends greetingsfromsnowyMinnesota,whereShmo is flyingF16s with the MinnesotaAir National Guardwhile stillwaiting a call back from UnitedAirlines. His wife, Shelley (Zuehlke, ’87), keepsbusywith their two children Sam (4) and Grace (1),while servingin theAir Force Reserves and assisting high school students with ROTC scholarships or admission to theAcademy. Sam landed his first trout last spring, continues his apprenticeship in skis, and likes planes. Shelley made him a cardboard B-52, completewith all eight engines! In 2004 Shmoskied theBirkieskimarathon and ran Grandma’sMarathon, commentingthey hurtthe same, but theytake longereachyear. Hmmmm... pain thatlasts longer. Someday, I’ll learn.” Sounds like fun! Thanks Shmo!!

From overseas Joe Milner dropped us a line where he is the 35th Security Forces squadron commander at MisawaAB, Japan. He isjoinedbywife, Kim, daughtersJessica(9)and Sarah (7), and son Andrew (4). During the pastyear the Milner family traveled to Hawaii, Tokyo andTokyo Disney, and Saipan. They will be PCSing to the Air Force Academy this summer with Joe taking command ofthe 10th SFS. Good to hear from you!

TheMilnerfamilyvacationingin Saipan. Myzoomie roommate Scott Madisonwrites from thewindycity, where he flies the Super 80 forAmericanAirlines. Hiswife, Melinda, is teaching3rd grade to the best group of 11 students you can find. Steve and Holly (Campbell) Thompsonhavebaby#3 dueinFeb ’05. Theypassthat Om Prakashjustshowed up at Del Rio and is DO oftheT-38 squadron.

That’s it for this quarter. Bestwishes to you andyourfamilies. Take care and God bless.

Theodore “Die Schildkrote” Wilson: Well, I’m a movingtarget but here is a quickpicb/cyou asked. It is from The Ride forthe Roses as part ofthe Lance Armstrong Foundation’s effort to raise funds and cancer awareness. This was mybestyearyet as I raised over 5Kand wasjoined on theridebymywife, Petra, and two girls, Johanna Kathryn (4) and Helena Sophie (2). We dropped 40 miles in wind, hills, and 96F temps each hauling a kid. On theworkfront, I will PCSthis summer andhope to return to Germany. Stuttgartistops on thelistbut willwait to see whatAFPC throws myway. The Frau wants to go home. Her three-yeargig in the U.S. was fun but she does not like nor want theT-Shirt. Have not touched basewith anyofthe MIGHTY90 brothas and siztas outside ofSPAZ (Shawn Fairhurst) He is the top 0-4 in the Center and the rest ofus grovel athis boots. Please give mybest to the brothas and siztas in harmsway. MyAEF rotation takes me to Bollingto be the J2 for the capitalregionair defense sector. Should be interesting...

MajMarkBaudendistel (‘90), MajMikeSchlacter, ColJimHogue (76), and MajSteve Spanovich in Qatar. ColHogue isholdinga goldplatedAK-47and WaltherPPKwhich belonged to Saddam Hussein.

James Sanchez

8301 Emerald Circle

North Richland Hills, TX 76180

H: (817) 881-6357

Web: WWW.USAFAT0DAY.COM/1990

E-Mail: editor@usafatoday.com

Garth “Giwit" Terlizzi: I’m at Luke AFB flyingVipers in the Reserves fulltime. In March, I’ll start with SouthwestAirlines and continue to fly at Luke part-time. Also, mywife, Stephanie, is due with our 4th son-Trey (7), Trevin (6), Tucker (2), & T? Mythoughts go out to fellow bulldog, Brian Hastings, currentlyin Baghdad.

Todd McDonald:We are living inTallahasseewhere I am a graduate student at Florida State University. I’m a year and a halfinto a PhD program in Computer Sciencewith a follow-on facultyposition to AFIT some time in ’06. The civilian institutionprogram and facultypipeline are a great deal... and itlooks like I may reach the finish line in the AF as an AFIT professor. Allie (7) and Tucker (6) are keeping us busywith cheerleading, basketball, baseball...Wellyou can guess.Angela also landed ajob as a graduate student recruiter forthe CS dept—so all in all we feelveryblessed here.

JeffCorcoran: I am a consultant now. I am technicallybased out ofHanscomAFB inMassachusetts, but I still live inTexas near Dyess. I work for a company called the OdysseySysterns ConsultingGroup. Myjob is to travel and instmct F-16 pilots on the new data link systems being installed on their jets.Acquisitions/Engineering isless funthanflying, but it is a prettygoodjob.We are alwayslookingfor new people towork out ofHanscom in the data linkfield. Ifanyone is interested, they can drop me an e-mail. On the personalside, mywife,Angelica, and I have sixkidsbetween us. Three boys and three girls.We truly are the Bradybunch, and couldn’t be happier... unless we could find an ‘Alice’ to do the cooking, cleaning, etc.

Ruthann (Shelton) Fisher: I left active duty in early 2001 to have more time with mygirls, Emily (9) and Elizabeth (6), and myhusband, John (also active duty). The timingwas perfect—I had time offwith myfamilybut also time to battle breast cancer. I did a combo ofReserve and Guard time for the last four years and am nowbackin full-time as an airbattle manager (weapons controller) in the FloridaANG at the Southeast Air Defense Sector, TyndallAFB FL. God is our constant source ofstrength and we are blessed!

Sabre Society Donors

Javier Delucca: Jaye Gandy and I are stationed at Travis AFB, CAwith the 715thAirMobilitySquadronand are currendydeployed to Utaphao, Thailand in supportofOperation UnifiedAssistance (TsunamiRelief). We are partofthe TALCE (TankerAirlift Control Element) providing Command and Control (C2), Maintenance andAerialPortSupportforthe C- 17s and C- 130s operating in Thailand, Indonesia and Sri Lanka.

Mike McNemey: Finishedup at NavalPostgraduate Schoolthis summer and went to JPMEII enroute to assignment at SOCEURin Stuttgart. My son Ianhas started German Kindergarten and is learning more than his Dad. Mywife, Patti, is duewith our second child due in June.Waitingforthis summer’s board to see what’s in store for us next, hopefullyback to a flyingunit—butwe’ll see.

Tom Koss: I came backfrom flyingC-21s at Ramsteinin 2002. Back in the C5 atTravis and am currentlythe ChiefofCurrentOperations here. Still married to Debbie with two boys (Tyler-9 and Stefan-6).

Brian “Trash” Hastings: Ma SalaamuAleekum! I have a nice ringside seat for the elections in Baghdad. Anice Christmas gift, a no-notice IAAEFrotation to support the MNC-I for a few months. The food is great, but the schedule is brutal. Such is life with theArmy. The wife and kids are fine, but my quick departure hasleftthem sad.

Kurt Shuler: Fausta and I have moved back to SiliconValleyfrom Dallas.We missed the weather and the culture. I had the opportunity to represent MIT Sloan at the 2ndAnnual MBA PokerChampionship in LasVegas. Taewon Kim representedGeorgetown. We didn’t place as well as lastyearwhen I made the final table, but I didwin one ofthe satellite tournaments.We also sawTaewon’s USAFAroommate, Sam “Movie Star” Morgan and hiswife and kids. Check out the FighterPilot movie at the Luxor’s IMAX: Sam was the project manager for it, andhas many cameo appearances!

Tom Goulter: I’m at OffuttAFB doingthejointthing at USSTRATCOM flying on the E-6B (LookingGlass mission). When not flying, I gottaggedagain as an exec. Will be heading to Langley this summer to take command ofthe 1st Services Squadron. AnyoneMightyNinety in the Langleyarea?

Mike Shea: I’mstationed at D-M as the 755AMXS/CC; DanVasquezandRick Mussi are also in the 55 ECG.

Bill Duskas: I’mwith DeltaAir Lines and the NewYorkANG out ofStewart

Kelly (Kratochvil) Greene: PCSed from theTest PilotSchool at EdwardsAFB to theAir ForceAgencyfor Modeling and Simulation (AFAMS) in Orlando in August2003. AFPC was GREAT getting me assigned near a SouthwestAirlines pilot base (my wonderful husband of 14 years flies for Southwest Chris Greene, Class of1989). Worked Homeland Defense at 1AFTyndallAFB for 90 days during Summer of2004 a veryinteresting mission. We have two gorgeous daughters namedAmelia and Olivia.

Skip Vanderbach: I PCSd from Maxwell AFB afterACSC to the Pentagon. Working in AF/XPPM now doingglobalmobilityprogramming.

Tim Lambert: I am currently stationed in Naples, Italy in a NATOAir Headquarters, “AIRSOUTH”. My tour will end this summer when I will move to Little Rock,AR, where I willjoin the newFTU Cadre for the C-130 J-Model. I am reallylookingforward to itfor a number ofreasons, not the least ofwhich is I will be flyingagain. Mywife, Lynda, and kids Myka (16), Jenai (8), and Isaiah (5) are doingfine.

Burchett still doesn’thave a memorial presented online atwww.usafa91.com; I take full responsibilityfor that (and ifit is still true, get on my case about it, please). Mydeepestapologies to friends and family.

Secondly, whatis an association ofmembers ifthose members don’t associate? Canpeoplewho don’tspeakup have a voice? Theserhetorical questions have affected the recent events oftheAOG; perhaps you, like me, have been contacted bythe newAOG Reunification Committee. Ifthe issues involved concern you, please get involved in theAOG! Here’s how: check out the new AOGweb site at www.usafa.org and read the lead article regardingtheARC’S recent challenges to the AOG’s legitimacy to represent USAFA graduates (I have). Gather all the facts presented to you, considerthem, then vote (Iwill)! Vote in the upcomingAOG Board election. Ifsome ofyou want to say somethingto the rest oftheclass, perhapsyou can postit to ourwebsite. This allties to howUSAFAis supportedby its associated alumni, but we can’t associate if we’re not involved.

To get offthis otherwise serious vein, let me open with a humorouslyshort update: Dave Damrath wants to find Tim Adams. Tim, where are you?

Bryan Isley’s news from the war front: “I have been TDY to CampVictory (downbythe Baghdadairport) and the U.S. Embassyin BaghdadsinceAugust ofthis year. I work in theAir Component Coordination Element (ACCE) attached to the Multi-National Force - Iraq (MNF-I). Bryan was scheduled to return home in Jan. Others? Please send stories.

I have two important administrative comments to make before presenting “news from the front.” First, a few ofyou have sent me reminders that Bill

In an earlier column, I commented on not being sure ofGregLatham’s location. Turns out he and hiswife, Jana, thoughtthat was prettyfunny, so he sent the following monster of an update (edited forlength). A ton ofcool photos are also on www.usafa91 .com.

“Gotto spend [mybankedyears afterDelRio UPT in NATO (RAF Bentwaters andRAF Lakenheath); backthroughrequalto theA-10,18months at Osan, three more years atMoody, [muchofit] spentliving outofanA-4bagelsewhere. Ihad great fun doing all ofit, but got out in late 2000. To mygreatsurprise, I got an interviewwithUnitedalmostimmediately, butelectedinstead to take ajob offer from a bush pilot outfitin western Alaska, and put United offforanothertime. Draggedmy (then) fiance,Jana, up toAlaskawith me andflew bush planes for several months out west in Bethel, AK, then spent a summer in Fairbanks flying paracargo and smoke jumpersupportfortheAlaska Fire Service, followedby awinterinAnchorageflying a fogseeding(don’task) contract forthe international airport. Janagot to see a lotofthe state.

s

Sabre Society Donors

“While waiting on a training date with theAlaska guard, I spent a yearworkingforthe U.S. State Department in South AmericaflyingOV- lODs (anotherdon’task), gotmarried, then in2003 went throughtherotarywingtransition atFortRucker, followed bythe HH-60G course at Kirtland. This week, I’m a traditional Air Guard HH-60G helicopterpilot, flyingfloatplanes in the summer forAlaskaAir Taxi inAnchorage,Alaska, and married to the girl ofmydreams. She’s a former professionalphotographer, and owns an art gallery here in Anchorage; between our three (8?)jobs, three dogs and 50 hobbies, we are bothwaytoo busy, but both doingwhat we love.

“Greg Schumacher, his wife,Amy, and sons Gus and Rudylive 10 minutes down the street from us here in Anchorage. He’s an orthopedic surgeon at Elmendorf, andAmy, who he met in Madison,WI at med school, is a ‘civilian’ pediatrician. He’s just now on his first rotation to the sandbox. See Greg’s familyphoto at the top ofthe next column.

“Anthony“Scott” Davis is currentiyflyingC-130’sfortheHawaii guard. We spent most of2002 and some of2003workingforthe same company, butflying different airplanes, forthe State Dept. Scott was in thevenerable C-27; I was in OV- 10s because I’m not all that smart.

Mike Bibeau, F-15 pilotextraordinaire, is offon a non-flyingstafftour in the UKwith his lovelywife, Norri, sons Forrest andAvery, and presumably a dog.

BrianOssolinski andfamily

Bryan (onright) andMajDougKennedy(’89) in frontofthe U.S. Embassyin Baghdad.

GregSchumacherreeledin a 70-poundKingSalmonlastsummer!

“Ed “Tippy” Schindleris one ofmanyfrom our classfurloughedfollowing9/ 11. He flies C- 130swiththeDallasANG, andhasspent an astonishingamountof time intheMiddleEast over thepastfewyears. He’s currentlyattheC-130weapons school, which I’m sure is a nice break. As a side note, when one of our parachuteteamfriends was killedin an HH-53 crash near Bagramlastyear (Steve Plumhoff, 92),Tippygot on the rotator fromAfghanistan and didn’t get off an airplane untilhe was inAlbuquerque forthe memorial. He was wreckedwhen he showed up, butthere he was the next day, inblueswith the rest ofus. Alotof uswere thereforSteve’s memorial service, butnobody came fartherthanTippy.

"Ryan “Pi” Payauys changed his last name to Payus in the late ’90s whenhe gotsickofeveryone spellinghis name wrong. Personally, I spent too longlearning to spell and pronounce “Payauys” to use the new one. Howeveryouspell it, he’s currentlyflyingforJetBlue, and C-5s forthe Reserves at Dover. Married in 2000 to Judy, a cardiologist, a happyworkaholic pair.

“Rich “Boda” Svoboda and Jeannie have gone from stocktrading and mall kiosk ownership in San Diego to reserve T-37/T-6 IP to motorcycle racing/ securityclearance investigator, then back to stocktradingagain.They’re currentlyresidinghappilyoutside SanAntonio, TX, althoughBoda commutes to Del Rio to fly. He has a love/hate relationship with the T-6, but it leans pretty heavilytoward the love side, and from talking to him I thinkinstructing is his calling. Anyonewho knows Bodawon’t be surprised thatwhile he was living in San Diego, he DROVE several times a month to his Reserve flyingjob in Del Rio,TX. Ouch.”

Greg, that was awesome! I also got news from a ’93er, Ken Balkcum, telling us about Celal Bek, our Turkish exchange classmate. He is married, has one daughterand is currentlyin his second andfinalyearofTurkishAirWar College in Istanbul. Evidentlythis is quiteprestigious for them,just as much or more so than our war college is for us. He still maintains currencyin the F-16, one week of flying every two months. I flew with him from 2000-2003 in Geilenkirchen NATO Airbase, Germany. We flewthe E-3A NATO AWACS together before partingways. His e-mail is: celalbek@hotmail.com.

Mike Czarnecki'swife,Tracy, delivered twins 13 Oct: Calabria and Gabriella. Congratulations! The familywill be in Portland, OR likelyuntilJuly 2006. Jim Simmons was inDallas (Oct/Nov 04) attheAirlift/Tanker Association and ran into a slew of our classmates Mike Stewart, Andy Leshikar, Tim Rapp, Earl Scott, Brian Hill, Peter Garretson, JeanVoigt (Fulmer) JeffWard, Jamie Dermer, Joe Roth, Pat Rhatigan, Lee Jones and Keith Green. That is awesome: I'm sure everyone had a good time. Turns out Jean took a picture of a bunch ofthem, butsince I haven’t askedforityet, I’llhave to post it next time. Thanks forreading!

James S. Mehta

8509 Custer Court

Las Vegas, NV 89117 (702) 652-3433 DSN: 682-8898

james.mehta@ogn.af.mil or jamesmehta@earthlink.net

True Blue ’92! Once again, I sit down at my computer to pass along to you howthe great Class of 1992 is making its mark on theworld. Many are still in uniform; manyhave transitioned to the civilianworld. Eitherway, pleasekeep me informedwhat you are doing out there so I can share it. Once again, my sources are varied, but myfocus is singular—you.

The Mailbag is first. Ofcourse mymailbag isvirtual, I seldom get “old fashioned letters fromyou anymore. Scaryto thinkthatwhen we graduated, the onlye-mail we had was Falcon NET! What a useless dinosaur...

Incirlikgets into yourblood. Paul Caimeywrote me from Peterson fondly recallinghis days at Incirlikin ’94-’96. Paul recendyspent ayearand a half on theAF SpaceCommandIGteam as an inspectorwith ScottBoushell. Paul was a Force Protection inspector and Scott was an Operationsinspector. Recently, Paul tookcommand ofthe 21 st SecurityForces Squadron and Scott leftthe IG team to attendAFIT atWright-Pat. While on the IG, Paul ran into manyclassmates around Space Command. James Camarena is on the 14 AF staff at Vandenberg; TimAnderson and Eric Barela augmented the IG team several times; DougLindsayisteachingBehavioral Science at theZoo andhisbrother, Dave, istheOSI Commanderthere; Ron Grayis on theAFSPC/ SF staffat Peterson. Also, at Peterson, JessicaMacDonaldis the 21 st Services Squadron Commander.

Columnregular. SuzyStreeter keeps me on here-mail list andI’ve learned she is on the move again. Suzyis headed to Monterey, CA to attend Naval Postgraduate School for IDE. I reallymiss mydays in Monterey... the absolute bestassignment...

6 Sabre Society Donors

Civilian and Reservist. Brad Swezeydropped me a note that he is the civilian Deputy Chief of Public Affairs at Andrews, but is also a Reserve Major at AFSPC Public Affairs. With him at Andrews is John Smith as the Deputy StaffJudgeAdvocate; JJ Wilson is a helicopterpilot in the 1stAirlift Squadron; Kris Meyle was in SFS and moved to PAatAndrewsbefore PCSingto Guam—also did a tour in Baghdad. Brad ran intoAndyRoss who is a Reservist at MarchAFB andAlexBrid at the International Council on Air Shows Conference lastyear.

Christmas Letters. Since Christmasjustpassed, I did get a couple ofChristmas letterswith manydetails aboutwhathappened in 2004. Dave Sutton sent me one announcingthe big news ofthe arrival ofLydiaKatherine in Nov—his and Shannon’s second child. Dave is stillflyingtheA-10 andacting as anAssistant Director of Operations in the squadron. Dave also deployed to SWA around the beginning of2005.

The Sutton Family: Donovan, Lydia, Shannon, andDavid.

Nicole (Foster) Greenwood also sent me a letter. She and Jeff are still at Vandenberg, butwill probablybe PCSing this summer. She is spending her days as a full-time mother to Garrett and Griffin.

1992 Movie Star. Manyofyoumayhave seen the new IMAXmovie, “Fighter

Dawn, Hunter, Kaitlyn, andRob at theIMAXpremier.

Pilot: Operation Red Flag.” The co-star is Rob Novotnywho plays himselfas the air boss during a Red Flag exercise. Rob is currently theAir Dominance Division Commander (isthattitlefrom avideo game?!) forthe 59th Test & Evaluation Squadron here at Nellis. Rob says his tide isjust a fancyway to say Chief ofF-15CandF/A-22 testing. Both soundgood to me. Rob andhiswife, Dawn, spent some time in December “pseudojetsetting around the U.S. attending premieres forthe movie.” You can checkhim out on www.fighterpilotfilm.com —it’s a greatwebsite; you should reallylog on. Rob has been selected to attend NavyCommand and StaffCollege in Newport, RI withDerekFrance and Lance Bunch, otherEagle drivers this summer. Also, James Shigekanewill be headed to Newport, as well.

In theAF News. I saw a couple ofarticles over the past fewmonths featuring Mike Mote and RachaelVanLandingham. Mike was interviewed for an article reportinghowthe SECAF allowed an Airman to hop on his plane, the Speckled Trout, to get from IncirlikAB to Tennessee on emergency leave. Mike is assigned to the 412th FlightTest Squadron as the assistant director ofoperations and was the aircraftcommander. “Once the plane was over Europe, Secretary Roche told the crewthathewanted to taketheAirmanstraight to the airportin Knoxville, Tenn." Mike and his crewwere able to get air refueled and make it to McGheeTysonANGB onVeterans Day. Mission accomplished. The article was publishedbythe AF Print News on 19 Nov04.

RachelVanLandingham was also featured in an article titled, “JAGCorps offers accessions program. Rachel provided information on theJAG programs “which allowactive dutyofficers to pursuelawdegreeswithouthavingto leave theAirForce and then serve in theJAG corps. Rachel is the recruitingbranch chieffor theAir Force Office ofthe Judge Advocate General. The article was published in 13 Dec 04 edition oftheAF Print News.

Note from theAOG. The AOG urges all members to vote in the upcoming AOG Board election. Also, ifyou have not visited the newAOG website, you reallyshould do so atwww.usafa.org.

Nellis News. I did see some new ’92ers around recently. While havinglunch at a local restaurant near Nellis, I first ran into Rod Ricard who used to be at Nellis flyingUAVs. He’s now in San Diego doingqualitycontrol on the Predator at the contractor. Ten minutes later, Jeremy Sloan walked in with a HUGE Thunderbirds patch on his flightjacket. Jeremyis the new Operations Officer for the USAFAerial Demonstration Team—TheThunderbirds.

That’s itforthis issue. Remember to send me the news thathelps me tellyour stories about yourjobs, families, and lives. Until next time, God Bless. True Blue 92. James.

Michael D. Sundsted

1805 Macadams Place

Alexandria, VA 22308

(703) 768-5664/ DSN: 858:6703

E-mail: Bravecwboy@aol.com

Class Website: www.highflight.com

Woohoo! Spring is here and summer is around the corner! Hope all is well in your world. Congratulations to all ofthose who have been selected for school and are on the move to brighterdays (a.k.a.ACSC, SAASS, etc, etc). We are all proud ofyou and look forwardwhen we can read about our first class general! TheAssociation ofGraduates has asked me to mention two things: 1) Make sure youvote in theupcomingAOG Board election and 2) check out the newAOGweb site is www.usafa.org.

Thingshavebeen prettybusyfor us. Lorihas startedteachingat a new school; my son Collinhas also startedpre-Kin preparationfor nextyear’sbig“first day ofschool” event. Meanwhile, I have beenbusyflyingthe C-20 and upgrading to the C-37 (both ofwhich I love to fly!), as well as preparing to host our very own Major Brian “Rug” Burns of the Thunderbirds for the Andrews AFB airshow in May 05! I can’t wait for that one. I’m pretty sure my son already thinks he’s a hero! On to the news...

I have run into several folks since I have moved here; many I’ve already mentioned in previous Checkpoints. OvertheThanksgivingHolidayI ran into Tom andTiffanyDawson at the Natural HistoryMuseum inWashington, DC. What a small world! AlthoughTom was supposed to give me an email and update me on things, I’m sure his schedule has gotten the best ofhim - they were doingwell and enjoying D.C!

Kevin Kosefeski visited us from Mildenhall AB, England after another deployment to Iraq. Rumorhas it thathe can definitelyflythe helicopterespedaily at lowlevel. His wife, Kelly, and children, Matthew and Meganjoined us for a couple ofdays on a tour ofWashington.

FrankFleitas checks infromT-37 PIT (Pilot InstructorTraining) at Randolph AFB,TX He has spent the lastthreeyears at Doverin the mighty C-5! He and hiswife, Leah, are enroute toVancewherehewill (oh, mygosh!) teachthe class of2006 how to flyairplanes! Leah and Frank were married back in March of 2003. He ran intoTed “Lois” Lane and ChuckStevens - both are PIT Instructor

Visit the MtWAOGWeb Site

www.usafa.org

Hickam.

HankBuck sent me a nice Christmas email letting me knowthathe, Natalie,

Pierce, Jocelyn, and Charis are doingwell and spent theholidays in Seoul. He is pluggingthrough his time in Korea. Thanks for the email and glad to hear all is well!

I received a great email fromAnthonyMartinez. A great leader and politician, he unfortunately lost the nomination for Congress in Colorado - his cousin (Ken Salazar) though, won. He had graduated from Harvard’s JFK school ofgovernment this summer and was re-mobilized to the volunteer Reserves. Since then, he has completed a 30-daytour atAF SpaceCommand, a 120-daytour across the street at US NORTHCOM/J5 and then was selected for an extended tour at USEUCOM/J1 in Stuttgart!

While he was at NORTHCOM he ran into James “Woody”Woodheadwho works in the Joint Operations Center (JOC) located in PetersonAFB. Hey, I just studied about the JOC in myACSC Correspondence course - hope you are havingfunWoody!

After relocating to USEUCOM, Tony was welcomed offthe plane by my counterpart from the class of 1994 (C.C. Massoti) and promptly driven to Oktoberfest. C.C. hadjust finished up her 10-year reunion atUSAFA. HeyC.C.!

Aweeklater,Tonybumpedinto Hassan Siddiquiwho had PCSedin to work at the EuropeanPlans andOperations Center (EPOC) - okay I have yet to study that acronym in my ACSCreadings! Tonyhas met several generalswho are ahead ofus in the ever-growing“LongBlue Line” who are moving andshakingU.S. National SecurityInterests! Itwon’tbelong before some of our classmates will make huge impacts as leaders oftheAF. Thanks for the awesome update and see you in D.C. when you arrive!

Ohyeah, I knowthere were manyclassmateswho made the schoollist, but those atAndrewsAFB were PhilTucker (ColoradoSprings/USAFA), BmceYbarra (Maxwell), Rob Dam (Monterey) and Chris Thompson (Monterey). Again, congratulations to allwho were selected - havefun andmake us proud, (i.e. if you are not the best, I’ll make sure everyone hears about it!)

Received a briefemail from Rob Garzawho hasbeenbusyin Orlando and in Arizonatryingto getApacheHelicopterupgradesreadyas quickly as possibleand ifthe enemyis reading-THEY’RE READYandTHE U.S. ARMYWILLGET YOU! He had hoped to get back home in time for the holidays! Hopeyou did!

Bytheway-for the classmates who don’t knowit, JeffKubik has created a class group emailwhere we can (in a unrestrictedforum ofour choosing) talk, lash out, gossip, slam alma mater policies, or just catch up with everyone. This is in addition to our classwebsite (www.highflight.com). We haven’thad much traffic lately - don’t knowifit’s because we are still relativelyfresh offof our reunion or not, but both ofthese venues are great ways to keep in touch with everyone. See you on both! Ifyou want to be a part ofthe email group (andyou should oryou are a traitor andyourclassprivilegeswillbe revoked... okay,justkidding),justemailJeffKubikatusafa93@yahoogroups.com or myself at one ofmyabove emails. This has been a message from the class of 1993...

I received a briefletter and a wonderful picture ofMike and Damara Rice who entertained Darin Booth after his flybyduring lastyear’s BYU football game. Ifyou haven’t attended a Rice tailgate you have to - just ask Darin. Thanks forthe photo myfriend!

Mylast letter is from Nathan Hobbswho writes fromAltus, OK (a.k.a. Altus bythe sea). He remembered to update me this time! He and his wife, Kellie, and kids Katelyn, Makenna, and Nicolette, (and one that is on the way) are livingin a greatneighborhoodwhere manyothers from theflyingcommunity atAltus live. Nathan is a C-17 InstructorPilot and enjoyingthe “not deploying so much” life offered atAltus! We can’twait to hear aboutyour new arrival! Thanks for the update and we are gladyou are happythere in the little patch ofheavenway out west.

One more update comes from your scribe. I had the opportunity to have dinnerwith Jo Sucich near the Dulles InternationalAirport. Jo nowflies for

Pilots. Lois willbe heading somewhere soon - Frank says

FrankandLeah Fleitas on theirwayto Vance.

Sabre Society Donors

Rice, Darin Booth, andMikeRiceat the '04 BYU versus USAFA football game.

Jet Blue and is doingreallywell. He is also a member ofthe Kelly C-5 unit in SanAntonio. Jo, Kristin, and family are doingverywell. It’s alwaysgreat to see a friend and classmate!

That is all for this quarter - Manyblessings to all ofyou this summer and be safe. Rememberthe 101 daysbetweenMemorial DayandLaborDay are pretty dangerous for sports/social activities! That’s the safetyin me - Cheers and if you are in D.C. look us up! Mike

C.C. M. Masotti

CMR 480 Box 1168

APO AE 09128-1168

W: 011-49-711-680-4131

C: 011-49-171-974-6748

DSN: 314-430-4131

E-mail: masottic@eucom.mil

HappySpring, ’94! Mydeepest apologies for missing you last issue no good excuses; just the craziness ofmy newjob as GenWald’s tripplanner... Of course, even though myboss isn’t a grad, he found out about mylapse when Corey [Wilder) and Pete Gersten (both ’89) “ratted me out” to him during their Christmasvisit! So, I guess I’dbettergetthis one in... I hopeyou allhad a blessed and happyholiday season and that 2005 is treatingyouwell so far.

Since it’s been awhile, let’sjustget down to business... Before Ijump into the reunion, I have two bits of news from last summer... first, last May Deonna Neal was ordained as an Episcopalpriest at Oxford, where she’s finishingher doctorate in JustWarTheory. She was thrilled to have classmate and softball teammate Michelle “Xena” Vestal (A- 10 IP, DMAFB) and Col Bob McAdams (’78), a longtime friend and father figure.

When I wrote last, I was headed to Neil and Sarah (Kerwin) Strachan’s July wedding in a picturesque medieval church (at least originally—it was rebuilt in the 19th century) in the beautiful Englishcountryside. Now, I’m not sure if there was something in the water there or ifit’s related to their shared names, but, since the wedding, both Sarah Strachan and bridesmaid Sarah (Saxer, ’93) Marshall are expecting! See photo at the top ofthe next column.

Now, a quick run-down ofthe reunion (8-11 Sept) for those who were unable to make it... The firstscheduled event was aWednesdayeveningsocial at the Colorado Springs Sheraton, but I was able to start earlier that morning at theDenverairport. I was waitingformyconnection to C-Springs, whenRebecca Moseley (not “Becky” anymore!) came up to sayhello. Sillyme, I assumed she was headed to the reunion. On the contrary; she livesjust outside the Denver area and was jetting up to Boston to spend theweekendwithherfiance—both to celebrate his daughter’sbirthdayand discuss potentialwedding dates! Still a Reserve Services Officer, she also has her own fitness company—shelooked fabulous and was glowingwith happiness. And she sent herlove to the rest of

Mr. and Mrs. Neil Strachan

the class particularly the Preppies. The social that evening was well-attended, but relaxingenough that we had time for one-on-one conversations with classmates and theirfamilies.

Thursdayactivities included a golftournament with the ’84 grads, lunch at Mitch’s, a Prep School Reunion,AcademyWomen throughtheAgesReception, andFajitaReception back at the Sheraton. Lots more people were there that nightwith adorable little kids running around among the crowd.

Friday’s schedule was jam-packed: a cadet area openhouse, lunch at Doolittle Hall (the “new” AOG building),“naptime” (USAFAbriefings in F-1), M-5 with cadets in their SARs, and our class photo in front ofthe chapel. The afternoon wrapped up with the graduate memorial ceremony. I’m sure you remember thatfrom our cadetyears... An announcer slowlyreads the names oflost cadets and graduates from the previousyearand, aftereach, the respectivesquadron commander responds, “Absent, Sir.” Theyplayecho taps and have a missing man flyover. It was always one ofmyfavorite ceremonies and this one was no different. Itwas a realblessingthatthere were no ’94 names among the grads lost this year (nor were there anyfrom ’84, with whom we shared the reunionweekend)... Aftertheceremony, we headedsouth on 1-25 to dress up forthe class dinner and dance back at the Sheraton. Appropriately, we startedwith a toast to honor our five fallen classmates— andhad a specialtablewith an emptyseat foreachofthem. We then sangthe thirdverse oftheAF Songforthe second time of the day(and I criedagain, ofcourse). Then we had a greatslide showcompiledbyKevinWatsonwith an assortment ofpicturesfrom our cadet days. He said he’d make a CD available ifyou’d like to order it, so I’ll share the details ofthatwhen they’refinalized... Wehad a photographerthere as well and staged some group shots, including ones ofthefemale grads, thefemale pilots, and the Prep School graduates (I’d share them, but I haven’tgotten copiesyet!). There was also a greatband, butwewere alltoo busytryingto catchupwitheach other to actuallydance! Itwas truly a greateveningand awonderfulopportunity to see old friends, meet their spouses, and forge new friendships. As you’d expect, the festivities stretchedwell into the next morning...

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On Saturday, we started with a pre-game tailgate with the '84 folks and the AOG, then a slaughter ofEasternWashington (and a third round ofthe third verse!) as the final “official” event. It was a whirlwind weekend, but it was incrediblyfun and reallywellplannedby our class officers—Kevin Pfeil, Deb Reuther, andPaulAbair—and a host ofvolunteers. Thanks to you all for such a terrific reunion! And thanks to the entire class for giving me “the Bird” as a thankyou for doing the column... I’m only sorrythat our webmaster Chuck Baird was unable to make it there forhis public thanks.

While I reallyfocused on catching up with folks instead oftakingnotes, I do have a fewreunion updates... there were lots ofexpectantparents there, ineluding Rick and Jenni Sheffe (baby#3), Tara (Dubilo) and Mike Traw (baby #4), and Kathy(Cleveland) and GreggLeismann (baby#1). I got to sitwith Jack and MarcyAntedomenico (IRVanceAFB brought their sons Nick and Jack, Jr.), Mark andTriciaTorreano (Navypilot, D.C.); and Chris Duhon (Sales Mgr, Chicago) at theFridaynightdinner, thencrashedtheirtailgatewiththeirUSAFA sponsors the next day, where I got to see Dr. Dave and Stephanie Steinheiser (he’s atWilford Hall—withJohnWheeler, MaxLee, Mike Morris, BrettAnderson, andJeffThurlby, amongothers) and Maria (Donovan) and Matt Brogdon (came from San Diego with their adorable toddler Olivia—and are now expectingbaby#2). I also got to catch up brieflywith Brian Freiburger (USAFA Bio Instructor),Jeffand Kristen Merrell (USAFAMgt Instructor—kids: Jon and Andrew); Jim and Juliana Fabio (NYC); Marine Dean Connaster, JeffPatton (F- 15E Operational Test Pilot, Eglin); Christine Rilovick (EOD); D.C. lawyer John Gifft; “Big Daddy” James Davis (SAF/AQ); Joe Clowers (Consultant, Charlotte NC); and the newlyengaged Christian Wendler.

Missingthe reunion because ofdeployments were Jane (Decker) Gibson and kids Regan, Sarah, Jason and Justin—who were greetinghubbyJeff(’95) upon his return from deployment; and Deb (Nawrocki) Luker (JAG, Eglin),

Damara

Deonna Neal atherordination with Michelle VestalandBobMcAdams.

who deployedthefollowingweekforAfghanistan. Countless otherclassmates were either deployed or stuck at theirhome stations backfillingdeployed colleagues. Know that our thoughts and prayers were with each ofyou and continue to be.

Other updates have come in from all over: Dave and Eva Squires (Project Mgr,Varco Oil DrillingEquipment) checked in from I Iouston with their first Checkpoints submission.

DaveandEva Squires

Dave manageslarge customer orders, traveling often to Singapore and London; he and Eva also invest in real estate in their spare time and were recently able to visit Eva’s family in the Czech Republic. Dave keeps in touch with newlywedJeffBraun who is a technical consultant forsurgicalequipment in Vegas anda startingquarterbackfor a semi-pro football team there!

Dave Kirbyreported in fromhis recent SWAdeploymentandJeffPaynewrote from McGuire, where he’s flyingKC-1 Os alongwith Matt Pasco (now a FEDEX pilot and Reservist) and RichAmisano.

And we got a great familypicture from Chris andJuli Giorgianni (Backhoe Loader Product MarketingMgr forJCB Ltd in Stradfordshire, UK).

Mrand Mrs. DrewWallace

Besides sending a gorgeous photo from their ocean-side reception, Kelly shared a fewupdates: Kurt Gordon (San Diego) returned safelyfrom Iraqlast fall and had recentlyvisitedWayne and ChristinaYoung and their babygirl. Others recently blessed with babygirls are Danny and Ellie Piper (daughter Megan) and Stu and Dei Eberhardt (Stu is on a one-year remote, but he was able to make it home forthe birth ofbabySyndey). AndZach and HeidiZeiner welcomed son Landon Blair on 29 Sept.

That’s the bulk ofthe news for now, but pleasekeep your updates coming! Here at Stuttgart, I see Sarah Strachan, Tam (Vo) Elliott (husband Jon is stahoned at Rhein Main) and Matt Wadd (’95) on a fairlyregularbasis andwould love to see you ifyou’re in the area or transitingthroughGermany on yourway to/from a deployment. As “proof”, I recentlydrove to Heidelbergto see Shelley Strong (MaxwellAFB, ’93) who was visitingwith her husband, Todd, during his TDYandwill travel to Ramstein to see Deb Lukerwhen she returns from Afghanistan. Ofcourse, ifI can’t see you here, perhaps I’ll run into you during aTDY—with 91 countries in our AOR, we’re on the road a lot. I have several upcomingtrips toAfrica and the Caucasus, with occasional breaks to destinations like Garmisch, Naples, Portugal and D.C... It doesn’tleave much time for personal travel, butwho can complain? As always, I hope to see manyofyou in the comingyear! Take care & God Bless! C.C.

R. Travis Koch

1072 Napa Way

Niceville, FL 32578

(850) 882-0563/DSN: 872-0563

Cell: (850) 499-8242

richard.koch@eglin.af.mil

traviskoch@yahoo.com

HappyNewYear, ’95. It has almostbeen tenyears since we walked across the stage in Falcon Stadium and launched our hats in victory towards the Thunderbirds overhead. I’ll take two for that one. Seriouslythough, our reunion isless than sixmonths away. I am not sure on the details but itwill be in September. UpdateyourinformationwiththeAOG at www.usafa.orgunderthe "Bio Updates” section. Check on the details ofthe reunion at www.usafa.org/reunion.htm, and we’ll “see you” like the Beach Boys... in September.

Fight for Life: Greg Bender dropped me a note about our friendJustin“Whitey”Whitehead. Justindid notgraduatefrom theZoobutwastherefortwoyears (Classof’96). Heiscurrently fighting the goodfightagainstamyotrophiclateral sclerosis (ALS), otherwiseknown as Lou Gehrig’s disease. Whitey’sbody isbeingattacked buthisspirit is stillstrong. Manyvolunteers, alongwithBenderandWhitey,haveformedTeamJustin, agroup offolksdedicated to fightingALS. There are multipleways to help. Eight-fivefolks ran theFreescaleMarathoninAustin, IXon February 13th in order to raisefunds to fightthe disease. Benderasksforyourthoughts andprayers as well as anydonations you can afford. Please visitwww.teamjustin.com to learn more about Whitey’sfight. You can donate directlyfrom the sitebyclicking on the “Donate” windowatthetopandfollowingthedirections, oryou can mail acheckto: SDWAA, Attn: TeamJustin, 645 FrontStreet, Suite 1908’ San Diego, CA92101.

3

Chris andJuliGiorgianniatStonehenge with daughters Chloe, Sophie and Maya.

Marc Sands (Intel) wrote from Korea, where he’s doing an “AF appreciation tour” on an Armypost as the CC of an AF Det doing research on seismic research and monitoringin support ofnuclear test ban treaties. He has run into Craig“Kegger” Allen and DanVeal (both F- 16s, Kunsan) and keeps in touch with Ken Made, U.S. liaison to the RAF; Markhopes to return to the D.C. area this fall.

I’llwrap itup with an update from new bride Kelly(Healy) Wallace whowed in San Diego the Saturday after our reunion and moved to Ramsteinwith her new husband, Drew, the following month.

Thanks in advance foryour support and call Gregifyou have anyquestions (917-355-6985).

Movers and Shakers: There are tons of’95ers moving these days or getting out oftheAir Force for good. Jay Moore hasjust returned from Korea and is currently on his wayup to ElmendorfAFB, AK. Dave and Kimberlee Thompson have four kids now: Ashley (8), Erica (6), Paige (4), and DavidJr. (‘D.J.’-1). Gorgeous Kids! Dave and Kim are on thewayto St. Louis where Dave will be flyingfor SouthwestAirlines (SWA). Ifyou get the chance, have him giveyou a few “jive” lines from the movie “Airplane.” Classic.

Mike Henkleman and JeffJohnson have gotten out and are also flying at SWA. Dave Hamieljustgot out oftheAirForce and is moving from Hawaii to join hiswife in Barbados. He suffers from a rare disease that onlyallows him to

The ’94KC-10crowdatMcGuire, celebratingMattPasco’shni-flight.

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live on exotic tourist islands. I crushed his team thisyear in FantasyFootball; that’s twice. SteveAlexander, who managed one ofthe most pathetic teams in Fantasy Football history, is now flyingwith the Richmond ANG and Fed Ex. Steve’s also wonderingifanyonehas heard from Montana Man, ScottyMcNeil.

Murali Krishnan is getting out to flywith the Massachusetts ANG. Tonyand CandyDiCarlo (two girls: Emma and Claire) are on the Guard bandwagon as well and are on theirway to Klamath Falls, OR. Kyle and Sarah Carpenter are in Del Rio, TX. Kyle is going to UPT and will be flying in the BoiseANG upon graduation. Mark Sotallaro (Ellsworth, SD now for two years) is not as much of a shaker as his wife is. Heather gave birth to Jackson Brice on 12 Sept '04. Jackson showed up a month earlyandjust a fewdays afterhis Dad had gotten back from 100 days at Diego Garcia. Great timingJackson!

Mike, Jackson, and Heather Sotallaro

Now for the John Hamby section ofthe update. Bone spent his NewYears Eve in NewEngland with a number ofGoldTaggers. There was a huge“Murph and the Don’t Ski Supporters” concert that rocked in 2005. Stand byfor more words next issue.

finished 75% ofhis PhD work, logged over 6,000 miles on his bike (thisyear!), and “smoked all the young ROTC cadets” with an 8:18 on the 1.5 mile run. Charlie, Mike!

Three (Foutch) Men and a Little (Foutch) Lady.

RandomUpdates: Mike Foutch sent a greatfamilyphoto ofhiswhole Family (JD, Jack-sixmonths, andJennie). Footch is still in Germanybut is heading back to the States this summer. Mike has a one yeargigwith FEMA in D.C. and is then offto Langleyin the summer of’06. He visits withJason Cochrum and Chad Balletie often. Chad dropped me a line from Bagram during his second tour there this year. He said the flying is going well and the food is actually better than lastyear. He should be back by the time you are reading this.

Sean Cotteris on hisway over to Uzbekistan for 120 days. Whenhe gets back to the States, he’ll be leavingtheThunderbirds, but not sure where that might take him. LCDR George Rivera is married and stationed at NavyNorfolk. Dr. Jerry Fortuna has been winning about every Doc award out there including the Donald F. HagenyoungPhysician oftheYear (2004). He narrowlybeat out Dr. Rosen-Rosen. Jerry’s at KeeslerAFB these days and he and Sarah are expecting their first son (third child), JerryFortuna III, in earlyApril. Congrats on everything. Rob andTiffanyKinerson are stationed at FairchildAFB, where Rob, as he likes to putit, “passes gas for a living” (KC-135 Aircraft CC). Rob and Tiffare also starting up a new churchwith some folks in Northern Idaho. Rob has two apprentices:Joseph (3) and Matthew (2),who are learningtheirDaddy’s wood-workingskills. Great stuff. Chuck Podolakis engaged and stationed at Mt. Home, ID. Len Cabrera wrote me from the UniversityofFlorida. Len has

“Where’dWho Go?" I got a fewbites on some ofour “Lost” classmates search. Joe Difidi, who is flyingT-38s at ColumbusAFB, MS, said he has been in touch with Jason Dukes, who is alive andwell. (Patrick) Duke Pope (’94) is stationed here at Eglin and told me Gil Saunders is in his squadron. That’s two thatwe’ve found folks. Here are some from First Group foryou to drop us their “Whereabouts”: Chris Bisbano, Jessica Olson, Lee Roskop, Jim Moore, Jim Rowley, Trevor Davis, Deb Olson, Oswald Medley, RolfLundmark, Travis Pacheco. Buehler? Buehler? Bytheway, did anyone, besides me, see TonyNishimura dress up like a French Maid on MTV’s “Singled Out”? It was 10 years ago but it was still classic. Till then, Keep the Faith, T. Koch.

Melissa S. Cunningham 220 Bowens Mill Drive Bonaire, GA 31005 (478) 975-9707/DSN:468-4680

E-mail: fmcunningham@aol.com or melissa.cunningham@robins.af.mil

HappyNewYear! I hope all ofyou hadwonderful holidays! Someofyouare probablystill catching upon Christmas with families after spendingthe real holidays in the desert. For those ofyou who are still away from home, our thoughts and prayers are with you.

As I write this I am feverishlyplanningconvoys forhopefullymylast Operational Readiness Exercise with the 5th Combat Comm Gp. For the last eight months I’ve been a little out ofmy element working with supply & vehicle trans/mx and now have a new-found respect for all the hardwork our transportation and logistics officers do to keep the AF mission moving. As I wind down this assignment at Robins, I am crossing myfingers that an assignment back to the Zoo willwork out. Fred was pickedup to be an AOC and I am trying mybest to gethired bythe ManagementDept. Itwould definitelybe nice to get a little break from deployment cycle for a while.

Now talk about a tight USAFA family. Checkthis picture.

www.usafa.org

You’ve got to readthis carefully or make a diagramlike I had to getthis: Brian’s father-in-law,Vic, was his liaison officerwhen he applied to USAFA. And no, he made itclearthatitwas not an arrangedmarriagebetweenhimandNicole. His brother-in-lawChris is now engaged to his classmate Renee. Believe it or not, Renee’sfather, Lee, and Brian’s father-in-lawwere not onlyclassmatesbut were in thevery same SERE trek team. Hmmmm... probablygoing to be a lot ofpressure on those grandkids to be Falcons and continue the family’s Long Blue Line.

BrianMcDonald,Nicole McDonald (Thuotte ’98),VicThuotte (73) Renee Zimmerman (’02), Lee Zimmerman (73) and Chris Thuotte (’02).

I received an awesome update from Brian McDonald and from the Bricks from the Fightin’ Fourth! Less than six weeks after Nicole McDonald ’98 (Thuotte) gave birth to their second child, the AF uprooted the McDonald family and sent them to KirtlandAFB. Brian is one oftwo propulsion engineers in theAirForce SafetyCenter. Because he usuallygets involved in almost every major aircraft mishap in the AF, it has turned out to be an excitingjob. Nowhe is on the brink ofbeingqualified to serve as theAFSC representative on SafetyInvestigation Boards for ClassAmishaps.

There are othergradsstationedattheSafetyCenteror atKirtland. BillyShipman ’97 has been tasked to reduce the overallAF mishap rate by 50% per SECAF directions—that’s a tall order. MarkWolfe ’97 is an F- 15C driver attendingthe safetyschool there. Joe Howard is in the 58th SpecialOperationswing.

Here’s an update on some of the other Fightin’ Fourth. Libbie Boehm (Beegan) and her husband, John Boehm, recently PSCed from Germany to Elmendorf. Libbie has managed to make the rare “permanent”jump from the aeronautical engineering career field to aircraft maintenance. This has certainlyhelpedgetting stationedwith John easier and it’s a good thing too because they are expecting there first baby(girl) on 4 March.

Chris Johannssen is at RandolphAFB trainingyoung navigators in theT-43. He has spent the majorityofthe last nineyears as a C-130 nav and is consideringmaking a major career change afterthis assignment tojoin the priesthood.

John told me that he heard thatAndy and Barbara Coop (Harrington) had both separated from the Air Force and that they are enjoying civilian life in Longmont, CO. Andy is working for a large pharmaceutical company and Barb has hungup her astro degree and flyingsatellites to tackle a management position at Bed, Bath & Beyond.

Mike and Autumn Cervantez are stationed at TinkerAFB. They now are blessedwith two children, Michael and Laura. Mikeworks at theAirLogistics Center as a follow-on to his Educationwith Industry stint with IBM in New York. He and Autumn ended 2004 with a mission trip to EastAsia.

Jim Johnson is continuing to work his wayup the government civilian GS pay scale. Jim and his family of five are living in Vancouver, WA. Over the holidays, Jim and his son Christopher traveled to WhitemanAFB to see Jim’s twin brotherJeffJohnson (’95) and were treated to flights in the B-2 simulator.

Chris Menueyand family are still atVandenbergAFBtestingICBMs. When he went TDY to Kirtland he caughtup with Brian McDonald. He also got the extra bonus ofbeing able to help a bunch ofthree-year-olds beat a pinata to death at Brian’s son’s birthdayparty.

KeithJones is fulfillinghis destinyasapartoftheUSAFAfaculty. In 2003 he was picked up to be an instructor in the Mechanical EngineeringDept. Families from both sideslive intheSpringswhich is an extrabenefit. He spent manylong hourslastyear as the DFEM exec butit came with a tremendous payoff. He was selected to get his PhD; so one dayhe’ll be back at the Zoo as Lt Col Jones.

KevinMcGowan wrote infromWinnipeg, Canada. He spentthe lastsixyears flyingC-5s atTravis and Doverkeepingextremelybusymovingequipmentand forces duringOEF/OIF. He was recentlyselected to be an exchange officerwith the Canadian Forces. He gave up being a C-5 Evaluator to flythe C-90A KingAir and B-206 Jet Rangehelicopter as a CF Instrument Check pilot. He is now the DeputyCourse DirectorfortheCanadian Forces Instrument CheckPilotSchool and DO forthe Central Flying School. He reported that it’s been excitingtrainingand qualifyingall the CF Instrument Flight Evaluators and sure beats flying around theworldlivingout ofa suit case. Soundslike one ofthose fleeting“good deals” in theAir Force. Take themwhile they are still around.

FlemingFamilyChristmas

I received a great update from Ester Fleming (Mukasa-Magoye) She separated from theAF in April 2002. Afterspending a yearworkingfor one ofD.C.’s many R&D consulting firms she was offered a job in the Bureau ofPoliticalMilitaryAffairs. It is great because she still interactswith the military on a daily basis (JCS, OSD, & HQ AF) coordinating on a variety ofpol-mil issues related to current overseas operations. She is applyingfor an IMA position so we may see herbackin the uniform soon. Her oldest son, Isaiah has started kindergarten and heryoungest, Sam, is enjoyinglife as a two-year-old. Ester is definitely a busymom!

Ester passed along some information about Shay Cox (Thompson) and Quinton Cox ’98. She and Shay had an opportunity to catch up when Ester went to USAFA last summer to commission her cousin. Shayleft the AF this summer after completing a tour as an English professor at USAFA. Her children (6.5,3,2, and 1) are keeping her days very full and veryrewarding.

Tia (McDonald) and Ron Henderson (’97) were married in 2002 and are now expectingtheirfirst child. They are stationed at KeflavickNAS, Iceland. Tiais the MPF commander and Ron is flyingHH-60s.

Sakura Dedrick (Moten) checked in as well. After graduation she was stationed at LosAngelesAFB as an AcquisitionOfficer. Sheworked in the Financial Management Division ofthe GPS Joint Program Office for two years and then moved over to the Program Managementposition in the Titan II/IVLaunch Operations. While stationed inLA she and ShermanDedrickwere married. In 2001, sheseparatedfromtheAF andmoved to FortWorth, TX. Shermanhasbeen an elementaryteacherforthelastfiveyears and runs an educational consulting company on the side. Sakura hasbeenwith two priorinternational aerospace companies but is now currently a FinancialAnalyst forthe CityofDenton, TX. She plans to retire from Denton or some other municipalityin 13 years.

'96gals on a boatcruise atLake Tahoe: Audi, Ester, Colleen, Kerre.

Awholegroup of’96ers gottogetherlast summer for a longweekendinTahoe: Erik andTracyCoyne (Dupree) Tom and EsterMcElhinny (Obert) Dantaand CollenJohnson (Lehne) Chuck andAndreaPodolak (Vinyard) Reid and Lori Rasmussen (Edinger) and Kerre Ellis. I heard it was awonderfultime andwish we could have made it. I know that lots ofyou guys have similar informal “reunions” so please send in the pics and updateswhen you can.

In closing, I want to thankyou all for always taking the time to write in and include me on the Christmas card list. I knowtherewill be a lot ofmoves this summer. Keep me in theloop! Ourreunionwill be coming up sooner thanyou think, so start sortingthrough some ofthose old pictures. I’ll be calling out for them in six months or so to start building our class slide show. Until next time... Take care, Mel.

Melvin E. Maxwell, Jr.

PSC 2, Box 7518

APO AE 09012

Work DSN:(314) 480-5628

W: melvin.maxwell@ramstein.af.mil

H: mel_maxwell97@hotmail.com

Hello all! Hope the holiday season has treatedyouwell and this update finds you in goodspirits. I thought I’d be deployed to Iraqby this time but alas my initial deployment was cancelled and I found myselfwatchingIraqi election

Julio Negroni and Saddam

coverage on CNN vice being on there on the ground. Afterthe quickshout out we gaveJulio Negron in the lastupdate,Julio respondedbackwith some infermation and photos. Julioworked contractingfortheLogistics CivilAugmentation Program (LOGCAP) April to October oflastyear. Julio was there for the stand-up ofthe Multi-NationalForces-Iraq, PaulBremer’s departure, andmany otherpieces ofhistory. Here is a shot ofJulio and Saddam in Baghdad.

AndyLipina is here in Germanytaking some time out ofthe F-16 cockpit as Air Liaison Officerwith theArmy. He stopped into Ramstein one dayand was kind enough to take me out to eat. I pulled the ole’ “Oh, I don’thave anyEuro!” and he took care ofme. So, in return, here’s a little Checkpointslove to Andy.

I received a note from the formerTracyWaller. Tracygot married on April 2 inTucson, AZ to herhusband, Ron Hasse, who is a Navyintel specialist. Tracy and Ron are stationed in Naples, Italywhere theyexpect to be throughJune 2007, just in time to make it to the Springs for our 10-year reunion! Tracysays it’s been a little weird adjusting to Navylife but she and Ron are thoroughly enjoyingtheirtravels. Tracysubstitute teaches at NaplesAmerican HighSchool and is the assistant coach for their girls’ basketball team.

Ron andTracy (Waller) Hasse

Kevin Templin dropped me a line the other dayafter attendingCatherine O’Brien’swedding. Here’swhat Kevin had to say: “I was recently back at the zoo to see Catherine O’Brien marryDavid Ware (’00). Catherine and David are stationed at KiitlandAFB whereshe is an MC-130 IP at the schoolhouse and he isworking inAFOTEC. I’m ofcourse indebted to Catherineforintroducing me to Dionna, whom I marriedtlireeyears ago, andwho was a bridesmaid in the wedding. Mitzi Braswell, who is flying HH-60s in Las Vegas, was the Maid of Honor, while Nate Healy’s wife, Karyn, was also a bridesmaid. Nate is a C-130 IP at the schoolhouse at Little RockAFB. Saberbearers at the wedding were Valarie (Weber) Long and Jesse Long, both working Intel staffassignments at LangleyAFB; JeffBrach, who’s an Engineering Acquisition Officer at an Air Force Comm Support Facility on White Sands Missile Range (an Armybase near Las Cruces, NM); Eric Springer, who’s the Ops Officer ofthe SecurityForces Squadron at Mountain Home AFB; Jason Clark, who’s a C-130 Nav also at Little RockAFB; as well as Nate Healy. Kari Agnew, who has gotten out and is a school teacherin Fayetteville, NC, was also at thewedding. While back at theAcademy, I stoppedbythejump squadron and visited with fellow PTWOBsAnthony Mincer and Leon Travis who are both backwith the JumpTeam getting freejumps and flying the UV-18. As for

me, I’m still flying the F-117 at HollomanAFB.”

Alright everyone, that’s the update for this quarter. Chances are I will be deployed for the next update. In case I am, please courtesycopyanyinputs to Samantha (Glinski) Weeks at samantha.weeks@elemendorf.af.mil. Also, a couple pieces of administrivia: check out the new AOG web site at www.usafa.org and please vote in the upcomingAOG Board election. Until next time... Mel.

Karin McWhorter

9811 E. Cisco Court Tucson, AZ 85748 (520) 885-8697 mcwhorters@cox.net

I onlyreceived one update this quarter! I am not sure ifsome people wrote and got an error message because I changed e-mails, but ifthat happened, please resend your update and I will include it next time.

As for this verybriefupdate, I got a short e-mail from ChuckRohrig, who is a flight commander in Combat Camera at CharlestonAFB, and recently returned from a deploymentto Iraq. He took a team offive to the Green Zone and documented a lot ofcool stuff. They coveredthe transferofsovereigntyandthe Saddamtrial, and their video/photos were used by all the news outlets and press. In fact, theirSaddamphotos were on thefrontpage of 250+ newspapers the dayafter.

While he was in Iraq he saw Mandy Scott andCobyLeslie, both working in the Green Zone. In other news, Chucklet me knowthat Dan Polsgroveisteachingphysics attheAcademyand GageAnderson is an IP in Del Rio.

None Yet Sabre Society Donors

That’s it for this update. Myhusbandjust received orders to Korea—-1 am sure I will see more’98ers come through Osan... but, I will have to change email again once we get in country. Hope to hearfrom lots ofpeople forthe next update!

James W. Busch 4050A Cambridge Loop Hill AFB, UT 84056 (801) 776-3586 busch99@earthlink.net or James.busch@hill.af.mil

Shiners - GreetingsagainfromHillAFB, UT, the home oftheFightingFuujins and the greatestfightersquadron in the CAE

Here’s somethingforall ofyou 5 and divers. Our first RETIREE has returned to active service. David Bruce (still a 1 st Lt) has returnedfrom retirement after two years andhas beenreinstated to active duty (I can vouchforhis retirement too because I was at his retirement ceremony). Able to overcome his 100% DisabledVeteran status, Davidreturned to the skies over Sheppardin Septemher for the first time in 3% years. He is scheduled to beginflyingthe E-8 Joint Stars at RobinsAFB, GA, in the springof2005. While retiredhe earned a master’s degree in engineering from the UniversityofTexas atAustin.

Bruce

Speakingofretirees, Time Kline has separated from theAirForce. He andhis wife, Elizabeth, are back in Lexington, KYwhere Tim will be attending law school. Timpassed this update: I saw Chris Malpass a couple ofmonths ago in Colorado. He and his wife are expecting their second and he is currently at AltusswitchingfromC-21stoC-5s. He’s on hiswayto Travis. Hans andAngela Larsen had theirsecond babyboy severalweeks ago. They are still in Columbus, butHans is moving to C- 17s due to some backproblems. Thanks for the

The O’Brien-Ware Wedding: (Toprow)Jesse Long Nate Healy, JeffBrach, andKevin Templin. (Middlerow) Valarie (Weber) Long, Eric Springer, and Mitzi Braswell. (Bottom row) Jason Clark, KariAgnew, Catherine (O’Brien) andDavid Ware (’00).

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David

sportinghisDisabledVeteranslicenseplate.

news Tim. On asidenote, BobbyFarinapunchedandis nowattendingbusiness school at Columbia. He said ifanyone, particularly former Honor Guard and SaberDrillfolks, needed a place to stayin NYC, do nothesitate to lookhim up.

In the “Definitely Not Retiring Soon” category, you have Seth Deam, who willundoubtedlysettheall-timerecordforthelongestADSC. AftertheHarvard gigand one regular” tour as an engineer at Eglin, he was admitted into theAF IAGprogram. He and hiswife, Erica, have moved to D.C. where Seth is attendinglaw school at Georgetown.

In baby news, mywife and I are expecting our first in lune. Mick Boeing’s wife, Krista, gave birth to their first, EmmaVictoria, in mid-fulywhile they were still in England. They’ve PCSed since and are now settled in down in beautiful San Angelo, TX (Goodfellow). Mick is planning to get out later this yearwhenhis commitmentisup, return to his homeofCincinnati, andtake up a job in the white-collar world.

Now forthe usual round ofwedding news: RayJohnsongotmarried backin November to hislongtime sweetheart, Lisa. JohnFenwick, Ed Sligar, and Mike Wliitted were in attendance. Theyhaven’t sent me anyweddingpicturesyet, but here is a picture that I had ofRayand Lisa, and that’sTroyCapelli on the left.

Apparentlythe barberran out ofrazors cutting “therest”ofRay’shair.

Tim Rezac gothitched last summer in his home state ofMinnesota. He and his wife, Katie, are now stationed atWhiteman AFB whereTim is flyingthe B2. TJ Kreutzer was married to a galhe met in Korea. As mentionedlast article, TJ is stationed here at Hill but is presentlykilling bad guys over in the desert.

Speakingofthe desert, I ran into KurtAlickson at Dhafralastwinter. He was out there forthe tankerrotation. He’s married and flies KC-10s out ofTravis. In anotherrandom run-in, I spent three days at Langleywith Dan Dorsen for a Sword Lookconference. When not Sword Looking, Dan flies B- Is and is married to an Air Force nurse.

Abigcongrats to SeanNeitzke, who as far as I knowis thefirstflierin our class to go to Weapons School. Scott Nichols, who is flying HH-60s at Nellis and alreadyhas extensive combat rescue experience, should be right behind Sean at the schoolhouse.

Michelle Nunez (Baugus) is still atVandydoingmissile stuff. In fact, she is so good at it that she now teaches other people how to do missile stuff. She is joined byJeremy Jarivs and Danial Davies, and Pete Kim teaches missile maintenance. Fellow space-missileerJake Lacock is headed to BuckleyAFB in Colorado to do supersecret space stuff. Joe Jimmerson is enroute toVandywhere he will be launching rockets. Kendell Wrey realized what a good deal space-missiles was and showed up in Michelle’s class to retrain. On a familynote, Michelle gavebirth to a son, David Luis, Nov ’03.

2

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Steve Speares emerged from sixyears ofrelative obscurity to saythathe, Rob French, andJamesJordan are allflyingF15Es at Seymour-Johnsonin the 336FS. Stevehasbeen selected to attend USAF Test Pilot School at Edwards with a master’s atAFIT enroute. He and his wife, Amy, are expecting theirfirst child (a boy) inApril. So much forthe pilot curse. He ran into Bryce Fisherin NewYorkforthe Rams/Bills game. In case you don’t watch football, Bryce is a starting defensive end for the St. Louis Rams. Steve also stays in touchwith Dave Shevchik, who is on remote in Koreawith a Shaw follow-on.

I know that there were a few more ofyouwho sent me stuffover the last six months. I had a catastrophic computerfailure back in September and I lost most ofthe e-mails (computerproblems, some things never change). Ifyou sent me news and don’t see it in here, please send it again. I thinkI finallyhave my IM issues under control. Thanks. James

Visit the iV£WAOG Web Site

www.usafa.org

Send the AOG your new address now.

Jason “JW" Simmons

PSC 2, Box 7077

APO AE 09012

Email: Simmons@HotPop.com

Jason.Simmons@Ramstein.af.mil

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(Editor’s note: Wedidnotreceive a columnfromJason thisissue. Pleasesend him yourinputs andphotos forthenextmagazine.)

Faith Dunn (Hitchcock)

203 Seaton Circle

Montgomery, AL 36116

Faith.Dunn@gunter.af.mil

Hi there’Olers!

I had to scramble to get this article together since I just returned from my deployment so ifI have missed anythingyou sent me, please resend and I will make sure to get it in the next update. Here you go:

Billy Hintz and his wife, Jen, just had their second little boy, Joshua, in August. Hejustfinished hisT-37 FAIP tour atVance and they are in-route toWright Patterson AFB where he’ll be flying the C-21 forthe next two-threeyears. Wes Sides, Sarah Methe, and Brandon Tellez are also atWright-Patflying the C21.

Billy, Caleb, and Joshua on hisjetat VanceAFB.

A few ’Olers still atVance as FAIPs are Sam Kessler, T-37 FAIP; Aaron Finke, James Mixon, and SkylarBillings are T-38 FAIPs; Pat Curryfinallygot his eye waiver, graduatedT-1 s and is now aT-37 FAIP; Chris McAlear is aT-37 FAIP and recentlygot married and they are expecting a baby.

Nick Russo is flyingAWACS at Tinker. Broc Starrett is upgrading in the KC135 atAltus untilJanuaryand is headingbacktoWarnerRobbins in GA. He and hiswife, Katie, are expectingtheirfirst babyin May. Pat McClintockis atTravis AFB flying the C-5. Matt Shrull and his wife, Jaime, are at Mildenhall where he’sflyinghelos. ErickPacheco andhiswife, Robyn, are at LaughlinAFBwhere he is aT-1 FAIP and they have an eight-month-old, Leah. Tristan Sevdyand his wife, Shannon, have a seven-monthold little boy, Zack. He is finishingMed School atTulane and is interviewing forfamilypractice residencies. Mike Berutti is still at Eglin and he and his wife, Alicia, are expecting a baby. Mike Ueda is currendy atA1 Udeid, butwill most likely be moved further north byJanuary and should be home in March. Lucia Garciais currentlystationed at Pope as a MXO buthasbeen released to cross train to personnelinMay. Clara (Aguirre) Austin is at Kirtlandwithher newbaby, Noah. Bryan Granger and hiswife, Dana (’00), are at McChord and are expecting their second child in March. Jason Feuringjust returned fromAfghanistan, where he was deployed callingin air strikes. He spenthis R&R at home in Connecticut and gotengaged. JeffFeuringjustleft for a six-month deployment to Qatar. He will be offto AFIT when he returns.

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As for me and Mike Dunn, I just returned from my four-month tour in Baghdad. It was a great experience -1 worked with wonderful people and loved myjob and think we are doinggreatthings over there. It was good to get home and spend Christmaswith myfamily. After mytwo - weekR&R, we took

Faith Dunn and some friends in Baghdadin frontofa Saddam bust. anotherweekoffand went to Breckenridge. It was great to hitthe slopesagain and we even got a chance to spend a dayin the Springswith some friends. We are both back to work and school now and getting settled into normal life again.

A couple ofclass notes: Christy Music, Eric Music’s wife, e-mailed me recendyabout havingthe 2001 Class Crestput onto various items. She’s got connectionswith an embroiderycompany at HillAFB andwanted me to pass the word that theydo nicework and can put the crest on numerous items such as fleece blankets, turtlenecks, etc. Ifanyone is interested in havingsomething like that done, please contact me and I will getyou in touchwith her.

I received an e-mail from Mrs. Barbara Hatton. Shewanted me to pass the word that theywill be celebrating Steve’s birthday, May5 from 6-10 pm with beer, brats, familyand friends at theirhouse, 7744West Oxford PL, Lakewood, CO. They welcome all his AF friends and would appreciate an RSVP to stevehatton@att.net.

Lastly, I was notified by theAOG that we have lost another classmate. lLt (Ret) Daniel S. Bradford, Class of2001, died 3 Feb 2005 from brain cancer in Crescent City, CA. A Graveside Service was held on 5 Feb 2005, at theVeterans Cemetery, Crescent City, CA. Here’s a toast...

Condolencesmaybe sent to: Craig and Sharon Bradford, 2680 US Hwy 199, Crescent City, CA95531.

Well, that is it for now. Please send updates and pictures myway anytime. Faith

Tony Carson 466 Avenue D Dyess AFB, TX 79606 anthony.carson@dyess.af.mil

Class Website: www.usafa02.org

Class of2002,

I hope that everyone had a safe and enjoyable holiday season. A lot has happened in my life, and the world, since my last article. I ask all ofyou to pleasekeep our fellowservice men and women in yourthoughts and prayers as theypress on in the GlobalWar on Terrorism and the tsunami reliefefforts currentlyunderway in Indonesia. There is a lot ofwork ahead ofus and I am proud to saythat our class is taking an active part in all ofit. Everyonekeep up the hard work, and pleasekeep the class informed on your accomplishments.

On October7th of2004, mywife Keyna, daughterAutumn, and I welcomed Heidi Rochelle into our family.

Nowshe is three months old, and not a dayhas gone byin which I am not amazed byher.

AnthonyCarson, Keyna, Autumn, andHeidicelebrate Christmas together. assigned B-52s and will report to Barksdale fortraining in February. AndyRule, Chesley Smith, and Dan Schreurs are all down at Tyndall AFB, FL flying F15Cs. Derrick Franck and JeromyGuinther are at LukeAFB, AZ flying F- 16s. Jason Shemchuk, KeithClayton, andAaron Celusta are allflyingA- 10s at DavisMonthanAFB, AZ.

Ifyouget the chance, please visit the class website at www.usafa02.org and update your contact information. There are a lot ofgreat features there to see whatthe class is up to- our contact information, where we are stationed, what we are flying, etc... Also pleasevisit theAOG’s new website at www.usafa.org. TheAOG board electionis also comingup, so pleasetakepartand vote. Thanks for the submissions and keep up the greatwork.

Richard Giles Whiting, Jr.

45 Raymond St. Allston, MA 02134

gileswhiting@hotmail.com

Firstthings first: I encourage all ofyou to vote in the upcomingUSAFABoard election and check out theAOG’s newwebsitewww.usafa.org..

As a matter ofcatch-up on all ofthe nerds who went straight to grad school have received assignments: CraigVan Beusekom is headed to SheppardAFB for pilottrainingalongwith Dan Morales and Mark Hickey. JoeAkin and Len Wholey are headed toWright-PattersonAFB as engineers. JeremyMalaskyis offto Nellis (not bad), and Matt Wroten will be going to Kirtland AFB, NM. Mark Rosenow is switching coasts to L.A. AFB and Susan Doyle is switching continents to AvianoAFB, Italy. Bryan Blew iswaiting to hearbut banking on Eglin (crossed fingers please). Caleb Earnest and I are both headed to San Antonio, myselfto Brooks and Caleb to Randolph.

Two former roommates havesignificant news. Tom Greenawayproposed to hishigh school sweetheart over the holidays; wayto representforthe 2% club. And Sean Estrada experienced the event that is theVegas engagement/wedding (allwithin a couple ofhours) - best ofluckbud. Another 2% tied the knot as well. TylerRobarge was married to his longtimegirlfriend Nikki on 22 May in Indianapolis. Pictured from left are ’03ers JackRhodes, TimWalberg,Tyler and JayTalbert. Congratulations.

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Jesse Snyderjust got back from Baghdad, Iraq where he was in charge oftrainingthe Iraqi National Police Force. He returned in late September and ran theAir Force Marathon justthree dayslater, finishingin 20th place. CongratulationsJesse! He saidthat it was a “pretty neat experience” over in Iraq, but “verytough”. Afterreturning in October, he and Mike Burton, who has been flyingmissions into and out of Iraq, met up and had some fun on a Caribbean Cruise!

TonyStraw sent in some updates from DyessAFB, TXwhere he is flyingB-1 s alongside John Chapman, Jeremy Simmons, Todd Patterson, Kevin Floyd, JeffFlowers, andJustin Bridges-Crawford. Gabe Geldert, Rob Hairston, Jake Bergman and Mikal Elder are also at Dyess flying C- 130s. Sam Meinrod got

Mark Rosenow and I ran into a couple ofUSAFA grads at Johnson Space Center and NASAHeadquarterswhileworking on our finaltheses. Manythanks to Charlie Precourt, ’77, and Bill Berry, (class of?), and to everyone else at NASAwho’s been helping us out.

As I mentioned in the last article in addition to a generalupdate I would like to focus on members ofour classwho have been or are currentlydeployed. If you have anypictures, stories or updates youwould like to pass alongplease email them. For this issue of Checkpoints I am directing our focus onto Ian

Hamlyn, currentlyserving in Iraq.

Ian leftWright-Pat AFB on the 19th ofNov 2004 after going through a deployment process that“wasn’t quite in linewith what I remembered from GE fouryears ago.” When he left theyhadjust extended the TDYfrom 90 to 122 days perAEF policy, but Ian “didn’t mind an extra month in the desert.”

too manyTapsVigils fromwhen I was at theAcademy, and I got the same chill runningup myspine. At the camp there were mortar attacks and rocket attacks, some ofwhich sailed harmlesslyoverhead, and otherswhich landed a bit closer thanwould have been preferred. For the holidays, Ian’s camp commanderdid “an excellentjob ofensuring that we had as festive aThanksgiving Day as possible.” The camp shared in well-cooked turkey, chicken, and ham. Ian commented—“I heard one ofmyGuard buddies from Kansas saythatthe stuffing rivaled his grandmother’s. So, although it wasn’t the same as being home for the holidays, it could have definitelybeen worse.

Ian is also filling a billet as an intelligence officer as a cross-trainingjob. With this hehas been able to see “the difference that we are making over herewithout the politicalspins, the twistedwords, and the opinionated slants that I see from the television and online news.

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Afterdoingthe combat spiralinto BaghdadInternational airport, “which felt like a pretty thrilling roller coaster ride, minus thefactthat on a roller coasteryou typicallydon’thave theloomingthreatofan RPG or SAmissile to minyour moming, he set foot in Iraq. One ofthe things he first received was his in-processing checklist ofdailyactivities. The checklist dictated a 0800-2000 work day withwhich he was “less than enthused.” Soon, however, he quicklyfound that hewould in fact spend more than those 14 hours a day atwork as he promptly ran out ofother things to do.

While serving in Iraq Ian has had the opportunity to workwith both combined andjointforces. His dailyinteractionwithAussees, Brits, andtheother services extended past the work environment into social relationships and friendship.

Highlights: Ianwas able to accompanytheAustralian contingent to the firing range and participate in their combat practice. Bythe end ofthe day he was trained and proficient in shootingtheirSteyr, and although Ian isn’t a bad shot with the M-4, fromhis reporthis Steyrputhis M-4 shooting to shame, putting a grouping of30 rounds within the size ofa half-dollar on the target.

Ian also was able to play in a soccer tournament with a halfU.S. /halfBrit team that went on to win $1,000 inAAFES gift certificates. Lastly, Ian was able to attend theAustralians version ofa USO tour MCed byBessie Bardot, rated the 10th most beautifulwomen byAustralianFHM. Ian describedhis as “anight that I’m not about to complain about.”

There were some deaths on the camp due to aVBIED (vehicle improvised explosion device) and Ian was able to attend a memorial ceremony in their honor as well as aVeteran’s Daymemorial service. “It was reminiscent offar

“I can saywith confidence that our presence has helped to save lives, helped to stabilize a volatile land, and provided as much support as possible. It’s a toughbatde to fightwhen Iraqiswho feel angerand frustration at our presence line up to take the spot ofthe insurgents that we have detained or the suicide bombers that attack coalitionforces.”

When I spoke to Ian in Decemberhe was scheduledto return back to Ohio in aboutthreeweeks. He stated that he is lookingforward to three more weeks of doinghispartto helpfightinsurgentandterroristactivityinIraq. “I’vemade some great friends duringmydeployment, learned a whole new career field, and I'd volunteerto headback out in heartbeatiftheopportunitypresenteditself.

Breezy Heddinger

Home: (325) 473-5007

Cell: (719) 213-3205

windyshort@aol.com

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(Editor’snote: We didnotreceive a column from Breezyforthisissue. Please sendheryourinputs andphotosforthenextmagazine.)

active-duty graduates who have annual memberships at other Air Force courses. Golf cart fees are $11 per person.

Non-retired, non-active duty graduate A0G members: The A0G is allocated eight tee timesper month (Tee times will be 10 a.m. or later). A0G members who do not have a military ID card may reserve these tee times by contacting Steve Knight at (719) 472-0300 or steve.knight@usafa.af.mil. He will contact the golf course and notify you of the specific date and tee time reserved. Graduates may schedule only one tee time per month to ensure all eligiblegraduates have an opportunityto play golf. If by the 25th of each month the eight tee times have not been reserved, a graduate may schedule a second tee time. Green fees for non-retired, non-activeduty graduates are $55 and golf cart fees are $13 per person.

MARIETTA

&

Colorado Springs, Colorado 80918

E-mail: usafa70@aol.com 719-592-9700

Toll free: 1-800-571-1161

Association of Graduates #

MEMBERSHIP IN THE ASSOCIATION OF GRADUATES

allows the AOG to provide valuable support to graduate programs, enrich the cadet experience and promote the heritage and tradition of the Long Blue Line.

Providing leadership and service to the Academy graduate community is an important part of the AOG’s mission. Examples of current programs, services and membership benefits include:

4 Checkpoints magazine

4 Find graduate and member contact information and profiles on the AOG Web site

4 www.usafa.org

4 Class reunions

4 Nationwide graduate chapters

4 Civilian employment programs

4 War memorial maintenance

4 Historical record keeping

4 Merchandise, including cadet-issue clothing

4 Cadet sabre rental and purchase

4 Scholarships for dependents

4 Eisenhower Golf Course reservations

THE CADET EXPERIENCE WOULD NOT BE THE SAME without the Association ofGraduates. Support from graduates, cadets, parents ofcadets and friends of the Academy has enabled the AOG to fund more than $6 million to various cadet programs, activities and clubs such as:

4 More than 30 cadet clubs and organizations

4 Internships at NASA, Congress, NATO and the State Department

4 Cadet international cultural immersion experiences

4 Cadet national collegiate competitions

4 Cadet summer research and travel programs

FOR MORE INFORMATION or to purchase an AOG membership, please call the Association of Graduates at (719) 472-0300 or visit us online at www.usafa.org.